Our Board

Laura Shortis

Board Chair

Laura has built a career working in the Not for Profit sector and has worked across areas such as Community Health, Education and Mental Health. At the start of 2024, Laura moved to North East Victoria and has loved getting to know the area and the community.

With a deep-seated commitment to social impact, Laura has spent her career advocating for accessible learning opportunities for all and is excited to be able to contribute as a Board Member at The Centre.

Laura was appointed to the Board in 2024.

Eliza-Beth Brennan

Deputy Chair

Eliza-Beth has a diverse employment and education background in leadership, holistic therapy and service/client management.
Eliza-Beth is passionate about supporting people’s soul journey of connection, discovery and healing to enable a deeper more authentic way of living and service in the world.

Eliza-Beth was appointed to the Board 2020.

Keith Primrose

Treasurer

Keith leads a team delivering professional services supporting public land management.  Keith believes adult and community education is a valuable tool to enhance quality of life.

Keith was appointed to the Board in 2024.

Claire Anderson

Board Director

Claire has been working in the community services sector for over 20 years, working in the local area, focusing on working with vulnerable young people, those experiencing homelessness and those leaving care.   As a strong advocate for all young people having fair and equitable opportunities, Claire highly values the importance of education and learning.  She is excited to join the Centre Board and contribute to its work in the local community.

Claire was appointed to the Board in 2025

Kathy Dodgshun

Board Director

Kathy has a diverse background in governance, project management, and leadership, with experience across the Victorian public sector, the arts and culture industry, and the wine industry. She is passionate about fostering collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning, ensuring that individuals and communities thrive through education and empowerment. As a proud aged care volunteer, she is dedicated to supporting and enriching the lives of others, reinforcing her commitment to service and community well-being.

Kathy was appointed to the Board in 2025

Geraldine Lewis

Board Director

Geraldine has over 17 years of experience in TAFE and Higher Education Sectors across Victoria. Geraldine believes education is something no one can take away, it shapes who you are, opens doors, and brings a lasting sense of achievement. She sees adult and community education as vital in rural and regional areas, offering people pathways to grow, gain independence, and recognise their worth.
Geraldine joined The Centre’s Board to contribute and support the organisation in its work to support its community.

Gerladine was appointed to the Board in 2025.

Andrew Blades

Board Director

Andrew has three decades experience as a risk advisor and educator across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.  Having delivered training in a variety of communities setting in Australia and overseas, he sees equitable access to education and training as central to sustainable communities and societies.

Andrew was appointed to the Board in 2025

Valissa Clarke

Board Director

Valissa has nearly 25 years of experience in education as a trainer and assessor in both private industry and the TAFE sector.  Valissa’s 10 years with TAFE included training and assessing, education compliance, online course design and development and later moving into Project Management.

Valissa is a strong believer in lifelong learning and the impact that learning can have on improving people’s lives.  She is also a strong advocate for community education opportunities as a way to improve the communities we live in.