+61(08) 8376 8072
info@kooranagym.com.au
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Jess Church

Jess Church

President

Jess ‘s journey with Koorana began as a parent when her daughters embarked on their STEPS program in 2016. Recognising the importance of active involvement, she joined the Board in 2018, driven by an interest and commitment to shaping the club’s future. Jess’s remarkable contribution stands out in guiding Koorana through the hurdles presented by the Covid closures, ensuring its continued success. Her dedication extends to prioritising the safety of our club and its members, securing essential grants, and council upgrades. By day, Jess applies her expertise as an Occupational Therapist working with NDIS and Aged Care clients, bringing invaluable insights to the boardroom. Jess’s presence in the gym facilitates effective communication between coaches and the board, fostering a shared focus on the club’s priorities.
Luke De Simoni

Luke De Simoni

Vice President and Secretary

Luke was, and will always be, a gymnast. Luke was a gymnast for the last 20 years and was an ex-athlete at Koorana for a few of those. Luke coached for 8 years, judged and was previously on the board at Tea Tree Gully gymnastics club.

Luke’s professional background includes a Bachelor of Management, 10 years in telecommunications and 6 years in IT. He currently works as a Client Outcomes Manager doing business improvement, improving efficiencies and strategic planning at Lumary.

Leslie Parker

Leslie Parker

Treasurer

Lesley joined the board in 2023 to step into the Treasurer position. She is committed and focussed to bring Koorana to a financially stable trading position to ensure Koorana can continue to offer its fabulous services to their growing community. Whilst Lesley’s gymnastics knowledge is sparse (only peripheral learning from her daughter’s engagement), Lesley brings extensive experience in risk management, financial acumen and governance to the club. Having extensive experience with multimillion dollar budgets to budgets of hundreds of dollars- if it balances and there’s a plan- she’s happy. She works at Bedford as the General Manager: IT and has a keen focus on people- ensuring everyone is set up to do their best. Lesley’s proactive approach to risk management and ability to inspire and lead through organisational change make her a valuable member of the board, ensuring Koorana’s continued success and growth.
Kelly Pinkney

Kelly Pinkney

Board Director

Kelly was previously a Level 10 gymnast at Koorana as well as a judge and coach. Kelly went on to become a physio and volunteered with the club to travel with the state team for many years. Kelly was nominated for the board four years ago as a way to give back to the sport that gave her so much as a young adult. Kelly now coaches again as her eldest daughter is part of the STEPS program. When not at the gym, Kelly works for the government in the physio department, or can be found bike riding or spending time with her family.

Karen Surmon

Karen Surmon

Board Director

Karen joined our community in 2022 when her family relocated from Thailand and her daughter enrolled in our WAG Levels program. The club’s history and mission ignited her passion to join the Board. Bringing a wealth of experience from roles with the Australian government in China and Thailand, including in her current role as Director of the Australian Export Awards and Sponsorships, Karen leads with expertise and dedication. She’s been instrumental in helping refine our club’s growth strategy, with a focus on grants and funding. Karen’s knowledge and drive for the club’s success make her a valuable asset to the Koorana Board.