Trainers and Assessors

Alicia Estrella

Alicia has more than 20 years of teaching experience both in tertiary institutions and the vocational education and training (VET) sector. Alicia has been a childcare centre Director, and was a finalist in the 2010 NSW Childcare Week Award. Her qualifications include a NOOSR Australian Bachelor’s Degree equivalent, Diploma of Children’s Services, Diploma of Information and Library Services, and a Certificate in Language Teaching from the University of Sydney which includes a Certificate in Training and Assessment.

Amie Macdonald

Amie began her career in the beauty industry in the 90s; gaining a reputation as a passionate, hard working, customer-centric beauty therapist. Her knowledge of skincare has been honed by undertaking courses at community college, Beauty College, and for leading skin care brands and industry workshops. She is an expert in Dermalogica and Endota organics, where her professional nature means that she has held managerial positions developing, managing and educating teams.

Andrea Kocsis

Andrea has been a trainer and assessor for educational colleges and has 11 years teaching experience in the early childhood field as an early childhood educator. She has experience working in the Aboriginal Community and has developed her knowledge on Indigenous affairs. Her main passions for teaching are child development, psychology, aesthetics, and behaviour management. Andrea has worked as an ECT at a number of childcare centres in both Sydney and Cairns.

Andrew Brooks

A trade-qualified fitter and turner and a certificate-qualified engineer, Andrew Brooks has also amassed extensive practical experience in mechanical maintenance.

Andrew has ideal credentials to train others, having earned his Certificate IV in Training & Assessment and gained experience in teaching automotive studies. In addition he has a VET qualification in construction.

Andrew's passion for engines extends onto the racetrack. He even owns and prepares his own race car for competition in supersprinting events.

Angela McCarthy

Angela brings over 25 years of dental assisting experience to her role as trainer and assessor for this course. Patient focused, a results orientated driven professional with a proven record of success working with the dental industry.

Team leadership, client relations and education are at the forefront of Angela's professional practice.

Utilising distinctive attention to detail and the application of experience to delivering high quality training and assessment are fundamental priorities.

Angela is qualified in dental assisting, training and assessment and dental health education.or for more than 25 years in many learning environments on campus and in distance education. Kathy has vast and significant experience of working and teaching in clinical and community healthcare settings, with multidisciplinary approaches and teams.

Angie Bailison

Angie has been working in early childhood education and care services throughout Australia and overseas for nearly 20 years. Angie has seven years’ experience as a lecturer in early childhood education and care at TAFE. She regularly facilitates education workshops for parents with young children and has been published in parenting magazines. She has an Associate Diploma in Social Science, Certificate IV in Training & Assessment & Parent Education Leadership Training Certificate.

Ann Harth

Ann Harth is an editor, ghostwriter and author. She writes for all ages in various genres and has been published internationally, with over 120 short stories for US-based Innovations for Learning. Ann’s latest middle grade novel, The Art of Magic was released last year in the US. Ann also writes fiction and non-fiction for adults, has contributed to Reader’s Digest and has ghost-written books and articles on a wide variety of topics.

Ben Barrie

Ben has worked in a variety of Occupational Therapy Settings since his graduation from the University of Sydney in 2003 as an Occupational Therapist.

His experience includes work in a transdisciplinary Early Childhood Intervention Team, work in a Mental Health Unit as an inpatient Occupational Therapist and, most recently, extensive work within the Workplace Rehabilition Sector. He is experienced in internal education, delivery of external manual handling, ergonomic training, a WorkCover accredited Return to Work Coordinator Trainer and the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

When he is not working he enjoys spending time with his two beautiful girls and one wonderful wife. To maintain balance he plays basketball every week, even though some games he can't seem to buy a basket.

Bernard Lewis

Bernard Lewis has a Masters in English Language and Literature, a Masters in Philosophy, Post Graduate qualification in TESOL and a Ph. D in English. Bernard has a PG Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication, PG Diploma in Higher Education, Certificate IV in IT and Certificate IV in TAE. In 2010, he was awarded a Prime Minister’s scholarship to undertake a PG Certificate in Career Development. With a penchant for innovation and technology, Bernard is also an online volunteer teacher/trainer with an IT association called IT4ALL.

Carolyn Beaumont

Carolyn Beaumont is a freelance editor and proofreader, working for publishing houses and government departments. She began her career as a newspaper and broadcast journalist.

Moving from newspapers to book publishing, she has edited books for R.M. Williams, Di Morrissey, Dave Warner and many more Australian novelists. She also edits and proofreads non-fiction and documents for medical, legal, financial and academic publications.

More recently, Carolyn has restructured and edited a major website for the ACT Government. She has been a teacher in the fields of journalism, editing and proofreading for more than 20 years.

Carolyn Dann

Carolyn has worked in the area of project management for over ten years in London, Sydney and Canberra, and has been working as a part time trainer and assessor for the last four years. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (majoring in IT), a post graduate Certificate in Management and a Diploma of Project Management. Carolyn has worked as a Project Manager, a Project Advisor and she was the Training and Communications Manager for a large scale program management system implementation. She is passionate about the need for effective project management across all industries.

Carolyn Martin

Carolyn has over a decade of experience as a Dental Assistant, having completed the Certificate III and IV in Dental Assisting and the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Carolyn worked for a number of dental practices, and now has her own business, providing temporary dental assistants to a variety of practices. Carolyn is versed in theoretical knowledge, clinical skills and client service requirements of those working as Dental Assistants.

Cheree Quon

Cheree has been employed in the fitness industry for over 10 years as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor and massage practitioner; working professionally with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. She has extensive experience in the areas of exercise, fitness, nutrition and sports massage. Her philosophy is: “Train the same way you live your life - with respect, plus integrity, physical and mental discipline as well as strength in body and mind”.

Claire Stevenson

Claire has worked for the NSW Department of Education and Communities supporting children with additional needs. She has also been a School Support Learning Officer and has extensive experience with supporting students’ individual and group-based needs, providing reading recovery and teaching assistance. Claire is passionate about training and finds it rewarding to pass on her extensive knowledge to her students so that they have the skills and confidence to work in education support.

Cynthea Smith

Cynthea Smith is a registered nurse who has worked in a variety of specialty areas such as oncology, haematology, palliative care and aged care. She has worked in aged care facilities, caring for high-level care clients and clients with dementia, but has also worked in the community with clients living in their own homes. Cynthea has taught students at TAFE and university, and is passionate about educating students and staff.

David De Santis

David has been a trainer for Open Colleges since 1992. He brings a wealth of knowledge from the business world, as well as experience in the educational ernvironment, having lectured and prepared educational materials for various universities and TAFEs.

He has been a Senior Manager in the NSW public sector for a number of years, including a role as Director of Human Resources in a large law enforcement agency. He also has experience in property, supply chain and motor vehicle fleet management, and has been directly responsible for budgets of up to $50m.

As well as training for Open Colleges, David has ongoing business interests and is the Managing Director of the De Santis Management Agency, which specialises in HR, training, recruitment and workplace restructuring consultancy services.

In 1992, David was admitted as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management (FAIM) in 1992 and is a Certified Professional of the Australian Human Resources Institute (CAHRI).

David Karonidis

David is a freelance photographer with experience spanning more than 30 years. His work is widely published and represented in numerous film libraries. He has also won several awards for his photographic images.

David has built an impressive reputation specialising in corporate and industrial photography, both locally and internationally. His assignments are diverse in nature and include horticultural studies, action shots of RAAF and other air forces' fighter planes, travel library images, portraiture and industrial facilities.

His impressive client list includes government departments, publishing houses and industry associations such as: Telstra, Hilton Hotel Group, Qantas Airways, NRMA, Agence France-Presse, Shell and more.

The insights David has gained through running his own business help him to provide relevant advice for the next generation of aspiring photographers in our photography courses.

Deborah Chikura

Deborah is a Registered Nurse with 13 years’ experience in different clinical settings; including infection control, intensive care, medical wards, surgical wards, aged care and primary health nursing. Deborah has also been an Occupational Health and Safety Officer for several years and a Workplace Trainer and Assessor in the health sector.  In her spare time she enjoys playing guitar, travelling, writing short stories and spending time with her family.

Diana Penson

Diana Penson started her teaching career as a graduate of Sydney Day Nursery Teachers' College and Mitchell College of Advanced Education. She taught in a number of preschools, infant and primary schools whilst completing her Bachelor's degree.

In recognition of her work operating a mobile preschool for isolated regions, the NSW Department of School Education awarded Diana a full-time scholarship to undertake post graduate studies in Early Childhood Special Education.

On completion, Diana was commissioned to undertake a pilot program to identify and set up programs for young children requiring specialist assistance. The program flourished and grew from one location to eight locations within a major NSW regional area. This experience led Diana into the training of adults and workplace assessment.

In addition to tutoring students in our Certificate III in Children's Services and Diploma of Children's Services since 2005, Diana has also lectured at universities and written content for a range of vocational courses.

Donna Ellerton

An experienced, high profile trainer of fitness instructors in Australia and overseas, Donna Ellerton is also an established international presenter.

In Europe she has lectured at fitness colleges and universities, and developed training programs for fitness instructors. After creating four nationally certified indoor cycling training programs, Donna currently educates instructors in Australia, America and Asia.

Donna is also fitness guru Donna Aston's cycling expert for the Fitness to Go series, has represented the Schwinn cycling team in both Australia and Greece, and has starred in a range of fitness DVDs.

Doug Gourlay

Doug Gourlay has been helping others to learn for more than 25 years, lecturing in financial management, management accounting, computerised accounting and a range of other computer application subjects.

He is a published author with a range of textbooks to his credit, including several self-paced guides covering MYOB business software products, and has extensive experience with learning in an off-campus or on-line mode.

Doug holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Diploma in Education from the University of Melbourne, as well as a Certificate IV in Assessment & Workplace Training.

Dr Marilyn Dunn-Bernstein

Marilyn Dunn-Bernstein is an eminent educator with nearly 40 years of experience. Marilyn has taught in a range of educational environments and roles, ranging from high school vice-principal to university lecturer and PhD supervisor. Amongst her many qualifications, she holds a Ph.D. in Education, a Master’s in Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Human Behaviour. For a significant part of her career, Marilyn has participated in running international workshops in Australia, South Africa, Israel and New Zealand on learning enhancement and cognitive modifiability.

Dr Mo Kader

Mo Kader is a training, development and commerce professional with 14 years' experience in integrating business frameworks with training and development.

He is a tertiary and VET educator and an experienced business professional, as well as an Associate Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management, a Fellow of the Australian Marketing Institute and Senior Associate at the Australasian Financial Services Institute.

With university degrees in business, management, education and law, Mo has a particular interest in aligning training frameworks with educational and business outcomes.

Erika Russell

Erika works for the Western Australian Department of Education as a Primary School Teacher and has worked in both remote and metropolitan schools, even teaching abroad for several years. Erika has a wide range of teaching experience including early childhood education, primary and secondary schooling. Erika is passionate about inclusive education; she has worked as an Inclusion Teacher where she supported ESL students and those with learning difficulties and disabilities. She has been working in training since 2010.

Eva Veronica Stern

Eva has over 50 years' experience in the pharmaceutical industry, and has worked in pharmacies around the world, including Australia, the UK and Switzerland. She also worked for a period as a budget controller for the United Nations World Health Organisation in Geneva.

As a pharmaceutical representative, she was responsible for providing product information and training to doctors and nurses.

As well as tutoring students in our Retail Pharmacy Assistant course, Eva still works part time as a locum pharmacist.

Fiona MacFarlane

Fiona works as a mental health and disability Support Worker where she is involved in the assessment, monitoring and review of disadvantaged clients. Fiona has been an accredited mental health Social Worker and a field supervisor for social work students studying with the University of New England. She has been a trainer at TAFE teaching disability, mental health and social work and holds a Bachelor of Social Work, and is currently studying a Post Graduate Diploma in Humanities.

Francesca Caflisch

Francesca Caflisch's background is in market research and business analysis, with a particular focus on the IT industry.

She has worked in large multinational organisations such as IBM and Epson, as well as smaller boutique agencies like Compass Research. Since 2004, she has been managing her own business, Intrinsic Sports, running team sports events for corporate and social groups across Sydney.

Francesca has more than 15 years' experience in the Vocational Training & Education sector, teaching marketing and business subjects in both the private sector and at TAFE. She holds an MBA (Internet Marketing), a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) and a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment.

Glenn Forman

Starting out as a ground engineer and ticketing officer for Qantas, Glenn Forman has been involved in the industry for nearly 40 years. Since then, he has served at Managing Director for a travel company and worked as a Management Consultant for a boutique travel agency before deciding to share his industry knowledge with others.

In addition to his tutoring role with Cengage Education, Glenn also has his own business developing and promoting travel and hospitality courses for private providers.

Harvey Shore

Harvey Shore is a graduate of the Royal Military College, Duntroon, with post-graduate studies in public relations, journalism, television and educational psychology from Queensland University and Macquarie University. He has an extensive background in film, television, video and radio scriptwriting and production and in international public relations.

His work has won 5 Logie Awards, 2 AFI Awards, 2 International Broadcasting (Nagoya) Awards, a 'TV Star' Award, and the gold award for first prize at the Asian Broadcasting Festival, among other accolades.

In addition to his scriptwriting and PR experience, Harvey has also published 2 books and written for numerous newspapers and magazines. He currently writes a regular column for Encore magazine, and is the media/PR officer for the Australian Coast Guard's Queensland Flotilla 2.

Helen Russell-Jones

Helen Russell-Jones is a qualified fitness instructor and personal trainer with a post-graduate Diploma in Clinical Nutrition.

She has previously lectured at the Australian College of Natural Therapies on subjects including sports nutrition, exercise therapy and health issues.

Ignatia Efstathiadis

Upon leaving school, Ignatia Efstathiadis immediately signed up to study for her Diploma of Fashion Design and she hasn't looked back since.

Graduating in 1994, she soon put her new skills to work, finding employment at a fabric store. There, she honed her skills in laying out patterns, fabric cutting and sewing, before moving into a role as seamstress with a sportswear manufacturer. Ignatia continued to build her skills in fusing, studding and machine embroidery, while acquiring an additional qualification in dressmaking and dress-cutting.

During her career, Ignatia has also gained extensive experience in clothing retail, both storefront and online. She continues to manage a wholesale website while sharing her passion for dressmaking and pattern-cutting with her students at Open Colleges.

Isobelle Viv Pover

I'm a creative designer using a large palette of materials and mediums. I have a 'hands-on' approach and use new technology tools to push the mediums and pathways of project work.

The multi-disciplinary design experience I have, resonates in cross-functional visual communications to utilise design thinking and project planning. The synthesis of design ideation, production experiences, ongoing learning and qualification are realised in a holistic approach to design deliverables.

My design and photography experience looks at how and why branded cultures work, sees opportunities with new technologies, materials and production techniques for possibilities with competitive edges. "Projects create noise, with a ripple effect to energise a marketplace."

Janelle Chapman

Janelle has been part of the beauty industry for over 20 years, beginning her studies in 1992. She now has four children and has returned to her work after spending time in different beauty environments such as hairdressing salons, mobile, day spas, and then contract work. Janelle now runs a successful home based beauty salon and enjoys knowing that she is nurturing her clients and making them feel good about themselves.

Jenny Elliott

Jenny is an active member of Speech Pathology Australia as a qualified Speech Pathologist. She enjoys the changing nature of therapy over time, especially the incorporation of technology into treatment.

Jenny has worked mainly in the rehabilitation of clients with acquired brain injury, such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. This has allowed her to see the benefits of long term language and communication treatment within the multi-disciplinary team. Assimilating clients back into work and study has been very rewarding. She has an interest in communication and the rights of people with disabilities to express themselves.

Ongoing education of staff and quality management has been important to Jenny. Areas of particular interest are transparent, accurate record keeping and clear communication with clients. Jenny believes that clients and their family and friends should be an active part of goal setting in the therapy team.

Since leaving the rehabilitation sector she has developed a teaching role with Allied Health Assistants along with a private practice for adult clients.

Jenny Scepanovic

Jenny Scepanovic has always loved books – for education and relaxation. Her publishing career began when she moved to Sydney after completing a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies at the University of Newcastle. Her first job was as an account coordinator for a print marketing firm. She then obtained a coveted position at Lansdowne Publishing as a project coordinator where she started to learn about putting a book together, editing, proofreading, design, budgets, schedules and desktop publishing.

Her next position was as a project editor for the For Dummies series and she was lucky enough to receive training at the publisher's head office in Indianapolis and mentoring from the US editors on her return to Australia.

When her first child was born in 2001, Jenny began freelancing from her home office and has continued to obtain skills and experience in producing non-fiction, illustrated books. She has tutored editing and publishing for the Australian College of Journalism and Cengage Education since 2002.

Jenny will work with you to explore the book publishing industry, get a handle on those mysterious proofreading marks and find your strengths and weaknesses in the world of words.

Joanna Neophyton

Joanna Neophyton has worked as a Registered Nurse for almost 25 years and has taught nursing to students at several universities and colleges in New South Wales. After completing her Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, Joanna began teaching health and community services at the Northern Sydney Institute of TAFE. She has also spent time working as a Community Nurse, and has a passion for aged care and community services.

Joanne Derbyshire

Joanne, based in Melbourne, has worked in residential aged care as an Enrolled Nurse and in geriatric evaluation and management. Joanne has worked in a range of medical and surgical acute settings, and in community aged care. After completing her Bachelor of Nursing degree Joanne worked as an RN in acute and sub-acute areas. She has had experience as an ACAS assessment clinician and Specialised District Nurse in community aged care.

Joao (Costa) Canoquena

With more than 25 years' teaching experience both in Australia and overseas, Costa has taught at a wide range of educational institutions.

Over the years, he has taught at primary and secondary schools, a teacher training institute, TAFE colleges, ELICOS ELT centres, universities (Macquarie University, UNSW and VU) and for various Registered Training Organisations. His teaching portfolio has included ESL methodology; English as a Foreign Language; English as a Second Language; CSWE; Language, Literacy and Numeracy; Academic English; Business Preparation Studies; Accounting; High School Preparation; IELTS, English for Foundation Studies and English for Cambridge Exams.

In recent years, Costa has held Curriculum Coordinator, Senior Education Officer for TAFE and Director of Studies positions. Amongst Costa's qualifications, the following feature prominently: Certificate IV in Training & Assessment, a Diploma of Teaching, a Bachelor of Education, a Graduate Diploma of Education (TESOL), a Master of Education (TESOL) and a Master of Business Administration.

In 2009, Costa was awarded a scholarship by the Queensland University of Technology to complete a postgraduate degree by research in applied science.

Jodyann Viviani

Jody has worked in the community services sector for over 15 years, focusing on the areas of disability, aged care, and home and community care. With a passion for planning, organising and delivering group-based learning, she has been cconducting formal training and assessing since the year 2006 after she ccompleted her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Jody now trains and assesses this qualification for Open Colleges where she enjoys coordinating and facilitating distance-based learning.

John Hollingshead

An internationally acclaimed photographer, John Hollingshead has been playing with photography for years. Starting with black+white photography in his home darkroom, he was classically trained with large format film cameras. His career began by assisting top advertising photographers in Melbourne, turning his eye to digital technologies as they emerged in the marketplace. He began with Photoshop at its inception in 1997, then, as digital photography became part of the photographer’s toolbox from 2003, John focused on completing visual projects from idea to result.
 

He has worked as an editorial and commercial photographer specialising in Food and Interiors for magazines and advertising campaigns in both print and digital media. John has worked alongside some of the best known local and international brands, from London and Europe to Sydney and Melbourne. He now brings his extensive experience to Open Colleges with Create, Shoot, Publish.

Julie Hayes

 Julie is one of our senior trainers, and has been helping our students embark on careers in travel and tourism since 1992. She developed her knowledge of the travel industry through more than 17 years of practical experience, working as a travel consultant, corporate travel agent and agency manager for agencies including Jetset, Traveland and Axis Travel Management.

She has also travelled extensively throughout the US, Europe and Asia, and has led tour groups on domestic trips to Central Australia, North Queensland and Tasmania and overseas in Europe. In addition to her tourism qualifications, Julie is a qualified teacher of English as a foreign language and holds Certificate IVs in Workplace Assessment & Training and Sales & Marketing.

Julie Miller

As a trainer in our Certificate II in Horticulture and Home Gardener courses, Julie will share her green thumb, knowledge of plants and her extensive nursery experience with you.

She currently runs a wholesale nursery and also maintains the grounds for an historic property. Julie has also taught Horticulture previously for Richmond TAFE, and her qualifications include a Bachelor of Horticultural Science from UWS, an Advanced Certificate in Urban Horticulture and a Graduate Diploma in Adult Vocational Education.

June Colbert

A published author and experienced English teacher, June Colbert is also a trainer with Open Colleges and writes instructional materials for both adults and young people.

Born in the UK, June emigrated to Australia as a child. Gaining a Commonwealth scholarship to Sydney University, she completed a BA in English Lit and a Diploma of Education (1973). Since then, June has also completed a Diploma in TESOL and has recently taken the Developing the Novel course through University of California, Berkeley. She is now working towards her Master of Arts in English.

June began writing fiction for young people in 2000 and has since had a short story published, as well as four novels for young people: The King of Large, The Last Boy, Volcano and What Willow Knew, which was listed for the Sisters in Crime Awards.

Karina Spoelder

Karina has over 25 years of experience in various business disciplines including corporate and legal environments. She has experience with moving clients through change, guiding their skills development, and with analysing an individual client’s needs. Karina holds a Bachelor of Vocational Education and Training, a Certificate IV in Training and Education as well as numerous industry qualifications in business administration, human resources and IT. She has delivered training for various private and public higher education providers as well as facilitating online learners.

Kathy Gregan

Kathy Gregan has been a health educator for more than 25 years, working in various learning environments both on campus and in distance education. Kathy has significant experience with working and teaching in both clinical and community healthcare settings, and has experience in multidisciplinary approaches and teams. Kathy has been with Open Colleges since 2006 as a senior trainer for aged care, disability, home and community care and allied health.

Katrina Daniher

Katrina has a Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy) degree and currently works at Vision Australia as an Occupational Therapist, assisting those who are blind or vision impaired.  Katrina has her own private practice providing occupational services to war veterans, war widows and clients who are under palliative care.  Katina is involved with the prescription of equipment, home modifications, referral to community services and education to clients, their families and community service providers.

Leah Marmulla

Leah is qualified in health science – nutrition and dietetics, and a professional member of Dietitians Association of Australia, owner of a busy nutrition clinic and passionate about the promotion of good nutrition. She also tutors in nutrition, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmocognosy, and is a student clinic supervisor and an assessment panel member for Herbal Medicine. Leah is also the author of "Ditch the Weight Gain Your Life".

Leonie Doyle

Leonie Doyle gained her Bachelor of Arts in 1990 from Monash University in Melbourne. She has since added two graduate qualifications in Business Systems and Human Resources for which she studied employment and industrial law, and has completed the required OHS Consultation, Return to Work Co-ordination and Training & Assessment qualifications.

In addition, Leonie has worked in human resources and learning and development for more than 12 years within the telecommunications, information technology and pharmaceuticals industries.

In 2007, Leonie set up her own company, Virtual Human Resources, which provides HR services for organisations too small to have an in-house HR manager. Many functions are carried out remotely, enabling Leonie and her staff to provide a highly professional service to numerous businesses simultaneously.

Leonie is a Certified Member of the Australian Human Resource Institute (CAHRI).

Leonie Schilling

A qualified counsellor, trainer, mediator and early childhood educator, Leonie Schilling brings both academic rigour and her hands-on experiential background in youth work training to her role with Open Colleges.

She has worked with young people in both the public and private education sector for some 10 years, while also counselling and delivering the Youth Pathways Program. Leonie worked for many years in behaviours support units and special education centres, and has committed a large portion of her career to facilitating learning for young people facing various challenges.

A published author, Leonie has written a weekly column in Moreton Bay's The Messenger magazine for the past six years. She runs a successful private practice providing personal counselling, life coaching, couples and family therapy, workplace dispute resolution, employment/career counselling, and grief and loss counselling. Leonie also trains Centrelink clients in job-hunting techniques and runs workshops on healthy work life balance, self esteem and handling workplace confrontation.

Prior to working in a therapeutic capacity, Leonie spent eight years as a qualified group leader helping children grow across all the developmental domains in all age groups, while assisting students gain competencies towards childcare qualifications. Leonie is delighted to be associated with distance education leader Open Colleges and shares our commitment to achieving great outcomes for students.

Lindsey Porter

Lindsey Porter is a Natural Therapies clinical practitioner who has worked in both in research and private practice with patients all over the world.

She holds a Diploma of Homeopathy, and has written numerous books and courses covering Homeopathy, Aromatherapy, Massage and Natural Therapies.

Lindsay has also taught extensively in the natural therapies and homeopathic fields, and is the principal, founder and lecturer at a homeopathic college in Perth, WA. She has been a trainer with Open Colleges for more than 10 years.

Lorraine Danos

Lorraine Danos is an experienced bookkeeper who has been working as a trainer with Open Colleges since 2004.

She has worked across many industries, including manufacturing, community services, hospitality and property management, and has particular experience with the transfer of records from manual to computerised systems.

Lorraine has also written a bookkeeping course which was certified by the NSW Vocational Education & Training Accreditation Board (VETAB), recently replaced by the Australian Skills Quality Authority.

Lynda Brozic

Madeleine Lindsell

Madeleine Lindsell is passionate about animal care, and makes the ideal pet care trainer.

Madeleine is highly qualified, and holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Equine Studies) from Charles Sturt University as well as Certificates in Domestic Animal Care, Horse Husbandry and Zookeeping.

During the course of her career, she spent four years working for the Blue Ribbon Riding School providing care for their horses, and also spent some time as an animal carer on a private estate in the UK.

Marylin Klein

Marylin’s background is in social work where she had interest across many different areas including government and non government agencies, children's services, aged care and disability. Marylin’s Masters Degree in Social Work covered her professional interest in community development and capacity building, and the opportunities provided for individuals. Marylin has spent the last 10 years in training and is now excited to be involved with online learning at Open Colleges.

Masoud Tymouri

Masoud Tymouri, our business, human resources, management and occupational health and safety trainer, is highly experienced in training and assessing both local and international students.

The expertise that Masoud has developed during 18-plus years of practical experience is supported by a lengthy list of qualifications. He has successfully completed a Master's of Leadership & Management in Education, Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Studies, Bachelor's of Business, Advanced Diploma of Management, Advanced Diploma of Management (Human Resources), Diploma of Occupational Health & Safety and Certificate IV in Workplace Training & Assessment.

Masoud brings all his knowledge and experience to his training role at Open Colleges, and provides every support to his students throughout their learning experience.

Matt Rockell

Matt has experience as a small business owner across several industries including education, sports science and allied health. Working in these sectors has given him the opportunity to combine both his professional and personal passions for health. Aside from teaching at TAFE, Matt was also involved in the design and implementation of a unique High School PDHPE program where students participated in activities in sports science laboratories and fitness centres.

Maurice Benfredj

Maurice Benfredj has studied nearly 50 courses with Open Colleges, and holds qualifications from other distance education providers. Maurice works at a counselling and psychotherapy practice in Adelaide, where he has amassed extensive practical experience in conflict-resolution and mediation. Maurice also trains students in Open Colleges' Certificate in Beginner’s German. He holds Bachelor’s in Arts, Science and Education, along with three graduate diplomas, a Master of Arts and Master of Letters.

Mbongeleni Chigeza

Mbongeleni brings over 18 years of teaching experience and expertise to her role as trainer and assessor for the Certificate in Education Support.

Qualified as a teacher and holding professional membership with Queensland Colleges of Teachers, Mbongeleni also has a masters of guidance and counselling and certificate IV in training and assessments.

Mbongeleni currently teaches in north Queensland and also has experience as a learning support teacher with indigenous students, challenging behaviours along with teaching creative and academic subjects.

Megan Funston

With a deep commitment to the online learning environment, Megan Funston is the ideal trainer for this course.

Megan was living on a sheep station in the middle of nowhere when she first developed a passion for distance education, courtesy of her children's experiences with the Kalgoorlie School of the Air. She subsequently received her Bachelor of Arts (Education Studies) through Murdoch University.

A position as flexible learning coordinator with Curtin University of Technology was the start of a career that encompassed varied roles. These included e-learning, AQTF compliance, projects for remote Aboriginal communities and a memorable two years designing and delivering e-resources for the African Virtual University to students in Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya and Ethiopia.

Most recently, Megan has delivered the Certificate IV in Training & Assessment to clients in mining and other industries, and the Diploma of Business to international students attending the Sarawak, Borneo campus of Curtin University.

Meredith Raines

Meredith Raines is creative, passionate about education and has a fundamental belief in the importance of providing our community with a well-rounded education.

Meredith has taught VET fashion design, textiles, art, ceramics and visual communication in a number of secondary schools, and has an extensive knowledge of garment construction, having honed her skills since she was an adolescent.

Michele Hargrove

Michele has a broad range of experience in training and IT. Her list of qualifications includes a Master of Education, Diploma in Training and Assessment Systems, Certificate IV in PC Support and a Certificate III in IT. Michele is currently working as a tutor in our Certificate II in IT course. She also teaches IT at a private higher education College and at University.

Nilima Paul

Nilima is a passionate trainer and an academic, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her with Open Colleges. She has amassed more than 21 years' experience teaching accounting, finance, business and statistics subjects around the world at institutions including the University of New England, James Cook University, The Holmes Institute, Global College and the University of Chittagong.

She has numerous qualifications to her credit, including a PhD in Accounting, a Master of Commerce (Accounting), Bachelor of Commerce with Honours in Accounting, as well as a Diploma of Business (Accounting). Her main areas of academic training and expertise are accounting, finance and computerised accounting. Nilima has also written many accounting courses and modules.

She thrives on a challenge and enjoys helping others to achieve their best. Nilima's career goal is to impart knowledge to students in a manner that continually inspires them to learn.

Nouha Achmar

Nouha has an extensive background in physical therapy, having worked for the St Vincent De Paul Society and Rockdale Community Services assisting aged and disabled people as well as their carers for many years.

Nouha has an Advanced Diploma of Community Services Management, a Bachelor of Adult Education, a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment and a Diploma of Frontline Management, among other qualifications, and has her own company specialising in the training of staff and volunteers and the development of quality improvement systems.

Owen Cole

Owen Cole has been a Registered Nurse for over 11 years and has spent time in his career working in intensive care, psychiatry, general and surgical nursing, education and aged care. Owen was Deputy Director of Nursing for an aged care facility in Sydney where he found every day to be different and challenging. Owen now works as a Workplace Assessor and is passionate about managing people with diagnoses like dementia, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson disease.

Pamela Maddocks

Pamela has worked as a disability and welfare worker for over 10 years and has run specialist programs for disadvantaged clients. She holds a Diploma of Disability Work, Diploma of Community Services (Welfare) and an Advanced Diploma in Management. Pamela has been involved in training in disability and community services and enjoys working with students who have selected to study in the disability sector as more people are needed desperately in the industry due to so many diverse areas of speciality and need.

Paula Hanigan

Paula started out studying to be a nurse before realising that her future lay in the creative world of interiors. Today, Paula has more than 15 years' experience in interior design. She worked for a number of large design firms and had teams of designers reporting to her before she decided to branch out on her own.

Since setting up her own company in Sydney dealing with corporate projects and large residential developments, some of Paula's clients have included Calyon Australia Limited, Symphony Australia and Wizard Home Loans. Paula is also a member and keen supporter of the Design Institute of Australia.

Peter Crabbe

Peter has been sharing his knowledge with other for over 30 years. He has taught Fitting and Machining for the Department of Technical Education in Papua New Guinea, worked as a High School Industrial Arts teacher and more recently has taught a range of metal work and mechanics courses.

One of his hobbies is the restoration and preservation of classic cars, such as his 1956 FJ Holden and a Replica Lotus 7.

He is a member of the NSW Board of Studies Industry Curriculum Committee and holds a Master of Education, a Diploma of Teaching and a Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training.

Peter Fernando

Peter Fernando first considered the fascinating opportunities offered by the tourism and travel industry when he took a position as a sales and marketing executive for the Hilton international hotel chain.

Fifteen years' of travelling and working in the industry have taken Peter to Dubai, Sri Lanka, Singapore and now to Australia. He has also participated in study exchange programs at the Washington State University in the USA, and has a Bachelor of Business & Hospitality (Hons.) and Master of Hospitality & Tourism. Peter has also been awarded a Diploma of Business Management and is particularly knowledgeable about Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) services, as well as inbound tour groups.

Peter enjoys the eLearning interactions with his students at Open Colleges and finds great satisfaction in ensuring that they receive the best learning experiences.

Peter Watson

Petrina Jones

Petrina has had a long and successful career in the beauty industry, starting out as a receptionist at a beauty product distributor before moving on to work at the Ella Bache counter at David Jones.

After that, she worked in a number of beauty salons and held several management and training roles before running her own salon for 11 years. Petrina continues in her own private beauty practice, and provides freelance bridal party beauty treatments for Ethix Beauty in NSW's Southern Highlands. Petrina has a fully mobile beauty service, with manicures, pedicures, facials, make-up, waxing and tinting being among the treatments she offers.

Since 2004, Petrina has been sharing her valuable knowledge with Open Colleges students as a trainer in our beauty and make-up courses. Most recently, Petrina has been acknowledged for her contribution to the latest 2012 Professional Beauty Therapy textbook.

Rhonda Wilson

Having worked in the area of early childhood care and education for nearly 30 years, Rhonda is a genuine expert in her discipline.

She has been a preschool teacher and TAFE lecturer, and has extensive experience of working with disadvantaged communities. To support her practical experience, Rhonda has a Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood) and both Bachelor and Master of Education degrees. She is also a qualified workplace trainer and assessor, as well as a workplace health and safety officer.

Rhonda currently works as a prep teacher in addition to being a trainer and workplace assessor for Open Colleges where she was named Tutor of the Year in 2007.

Robert Stephenson

Robert is an accomplished author, editor, agent and publisher, and shares his passion for writing with his students.

Robert has published more than 40 pieces across genres including crime, science fiction, fantasy and horror. His work completing a novel started by the deceased author George Turner won the Harper Collins prize in 1999. In addition to his fiction work, Robert is also a prolific poet.

For the past 12 years, Robert has been running his own editing business and literary agency, which has edited best-seller novels for clients in Australia as well as Hong Kong.

Rosemary Marchese

With her degree in Physiotherapy and training within the fitness industry, Rosemary uses her experience and expertise within the health and fitness industries as a fitness author and writer, and trainer and assessor. She has over 12 years of experience working in vocational education and training in both the private and public domains.

Rosemary is a well-established published fitness author and freelance writer. She is listed on the Consultant and Advisor Register for the Australian Council for Private Education and Training. She has extensive experience in the development of curriculum, assessment and learning materials for fitness and health qualifications in Australia.

Rosemary is the co-author of the textbook 'The Essential Guide to Fitness: For the Fitness Instructor' (now available in 2nd edition), which was specifically written to suit the needs of the fitness training package. She is now finalising work on her second health and fitness book.

Roshan Alli

A solicitor for five years, Roshan Alli has the ideal combination of legal and training experience for her role with Open Colleges.

During her legal career, Roshan specialised in property and family law, commercial litigation, and wills and probate. Over the past four years, she has gained considerable experience in teaching, developing and assessing legal services courses.

Roshan's experience is supported by a range of qualifications. In addition to a Bachelor of Law, she has a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism).

Teaching and interacting with students brings Roshan immense satisfaction.

Sandra Petts

An Open Colleges trainer and assessor for more than four years, Sandra Petts is dedicated to passing on her knowledge and experience. She hopes that all her students will come to share her passion for providing quality care to children across Australia.

Sandra has more than 20 years' experience in the childcare industry. She has taught in classrooms, conducted practical assessments in childcare centres, and worked with additional needs children. For 11 years, Sandra was the director of a childcare centre, and has been employed as a play therapist, child development officer and as a home-based carer in family day care.

Sandra holds a Diploma of Children's Services and Certificate IV in Training & Assessment – as well as the Open Colleges Tutor of the Year Award for 2008. She is also a student of Open Colleges, having completed our Professional Children's Writing course.

Sarah Bowman

Sarah holds a Bachelor in Youth Work, Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs Work, Certificate IV in Disability, and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, amongst other qualifications. She has worked with adults and teenagers with intellectual disabilities and with young people who are at risk, at youth refuges, and in community and residential housing. Sarah has had hands-on experience and qualifications in aged care, disability and youth work and is passionate about the community services sector.

Sharleene Taylor

Sharleene has 25 years of experience in the hair and beauty industry working for some of the largest brands and companies, including Aveda, Myer, David Jones, Clarins and Guerlain Paris. She has an extensive knowledge of spa management and motivational skills and has hosted many make-up workshops for department stores, bridal events and special occasions. Sharleene has five years of experience as a trainer/assessor and holds a CIDESCO international qualification in beauty therapy.

Shendi Brown

Shendi brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the Podiatry Assistance role and practice. She has been qualified as a Podiatry Assistant since 2002 and working within podiatry services for as many years. For the last ten years Shendi has been one of the owners and the Practice Manager for the podiatry practices at A Step Ahead. Shendi provides all the training and assessment of podiatry assistant staff for the practices and is passionate about delivering high quality learning experiences for students.

Stephen Blacktop

A Certified Practising Accountant and with extensive practical experience as an accountant and trainer, Stephen Blacktop brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as trainer.

During his years in accounting, Stephen held senior positions for a number of small businesses as well as publicly-listed companies and multi-national corporations across various industries.

Stephen has numerous qualifications, including a Bachelor of Commerce, and is a member of CPA Australia. Since 1998, he has managed his own consulting company, offering MYOB accounting and training services to small business, as well as key performance analysis. He has also developed a range of accounting courses and has conducted classroom training for adult learners and small business owners.

A dedicated trainer, Stephen provides a supportive learning environment for his students and is committed to guiding them successfully through their studies.

Suzanne Kosaras

Toni Bailey

Toni Bailey is a registered and qualified clinical counsellor, trainer and hypnotherapist who has been in private practice for the past 15 years. Toni has worked as an educator and coach focusing on team leadership, development, facilitating various groups, and coaching individuals, teams and small business. She aims to make learning an experience which will enable her students to begin their counseling careers with solid skills and ethics.

Tony Bosworth

Tony Bosworth is a newspaper and magazine journalist who has also spent time working in radio. He has had his work published in UK newspapers including The Times, The Guardian, The Independent, Daily Star and The Observer, as well as a raft of specialist magazines. At the age of 21 he launched Which Car? magazine for Haymarket Publishing in London.

Tony moved to Australia 13 years ago and has launched or relaunched numerous magazines in that time, including Business Asia, The Chief, Australian Telecom, Australian Classic Car, Electrical World, Connoisseurs Gallery and Voice&Data.

He was also a freelance writer for The Bulletin, contributing articles on subjects as diverse as robotics, GM foods, immortaility and flu pandemics. He has also had five non-fiction books published.

Tony also has a history in teaching, having taught numerous media and journalism courses back in the UK. Now, as well as being a tutor for the Australian College of Journalism, Tony also teaches Media Training to senior management in major corporations, as well as writing for a range of Australian and international publications.

Tracey Johnson

Tracey qualified as a podiatrist in 1998. Her career has spanned many areas of interest including lecturing podiatry students, holding executive positions with podiatry and foot related associations, and working in the public and private sector. Whilst Tracey covers all areas of podiatry practice, her particular focus is the foot in diabetes cases. Tracey recently completed an online Postgraduate Diploma in Diabetes and has had several articles published in journals.

Tracy Ingaldo

A consummate professional, Tracy Ingaldo is the owner of Bella Interiors, a design business with clients across the Western Sydney and Blue Mountains regions of New South Wales.

Tracy’s creative career was sparked more than 20 years ago with a course in computer-aided design (CAD) and flourished after she completed her Diploma of Interior Decorating and gained experience working in the window dressings industry.

In addition to Tracy’s client work ? which includes a recent project in for a cafe in Vietnam ? she is a serial home renovator. Remodelling a number of homes in the past decade has provided hands?on experience, and enabled her to stay abreast of the latest styles, materials and products.

Tracy is also an experienced educator, having worked as an assessor for an interior decorating college. She has completed a workplace training and assessment qualification, and is enthusiastic about sharing her passion for colour and design with Open Colleges' interior decoration students.

Venise Damaskos

Venise Damaskos has gained a vast amount of experience in the retail, business administration and teaching fields over the past 20 years.

She has worked for high profile retailers including Grace Bros, Norman Ross and World 4 Kids, and developed her teaching skills as a TAFE teacher and a workplace trainer and assessor for the Macarthur Retail and Business Training Service.

She holds a Certificate IV in Business Administration, as well as a Certificate IV in Retail Management and a Certificate IV in Assessment & Workplace Training.