Staff

Brett O'Farrell | Chief Executive OfficerPB2_1475

Brett comes to the organisation with a strong strategic planning and fundraising background having worked previously at the Cancer Council of Victoria and PGA of Australia. He also has first-hand experience of the 'elite athlete' journey having played in the AFL with the Sydney Swans and Hawthorn Hawks from 1997-2001. Talent identification and grassroots sport is another area in which Brett has direct knowledge, having held the position of General Manager with AFL Central Australia - an organisation supported by the AFL & AFLNT to identify and nurture sporting talent in the central regions of Australia.

 

 

 

PB2_1499Bianca Smith  | Events, Communication & Administration Officer 

Bianca holds a B. Communication Majoring in Public Relations from the University of Newcastle and is not shy of the sporting world having grown up playing many codes. Supporting our coaches and coordinators and working closely with our athletes and parents, Bianca oversees all communications for our organisation. She is the event coordinator for all of the Academy events, including the Your Local Club Academy Games, SportsFest, Hall of Fame and Awards Days. 

 

 

 

Dave Ferguson  | Sport Programs Manager PB2_1482

Dave is no stranger to Regional Academies, after jumping ship to Hunter in May 2022 after working with Southern Sports Academy for 5 years. Dave made the move from Wagga Wagga to the Hunter, and brings his wealth of experience in management and coordination to this role across our many programs. Dave also brings his knowledge of Strength and Conditioning to the team, having his Level 1 in S&C and has worked with local Rugby League and Union clubs in Wagga over the past few years.