An unexpected opportunity arose in mid 2023, which resulted in winning the position of General Manager of Maralinga Tjarutja Incorporated and Oak Valley (Maralinga) Aboriginal Corporation. I never thought I would achieve a role like this. I am humbled by the confidence shown by the community towards me. Oak Valley has been a place where I have found peace and been accepted in to a community in one of the most remote indigenous communities in Australia. To now represent this community and the Maralinga Tjarutja lands is an absolute privilege. The Maralinga Tjarutja lands comprise over 11% of South Australia. It is beautiful, sacred land. It really is an honor to be part of this organization.I was previously employed as Director Student Services at Uni Hub Spencer Gulf in a role that builds on the experience generated over the last five years. I will always be passionate about regional South Australia and supporting local people to achieve their higher education goals. This work was predominantly based in Port Pirie with regular visits to Kadina, Port Lincoln, and Port Augusta.Studying at uni has always been a dream of mine, and the COVID-19 pandemic led me to try to fill in some spare time, so I applied for and was accepted into the Bachelor of Business (Online) with Flinders University (via the Uni Hub Spencer Gulf). I hope to graduate in mid-2024 and become the first person in our family to complete a university degree.My home is in two places - Port Broughton at the top of Yorke Peninsula and Ceduna on the Far West Coast of South Australia. Since starting with Maralinga Tjarutja/Oak Valley, I now share my time between Port Broughton and Ceduna. I have strong family connections with Ceduna, on the Eyre Peninsula - and this Far West SA region is my second home, particularly Fowlers Bay, Yalata and Oak Valley communities. I lived remotely for years, and consider this part of Australia the best country in the world. I have a lifelong Interest in my local community and volunteer with sporting clubs and progress associations in my hometown. I nominated in the Local Government Elections for the Barunga West Council for 2022. I am very proud to now be a current Elected Member for the Barunga West Council.