Ambassadors
Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much
Helen Keller
Hearts and Hands are proud to welcome supporters
Who share our values and mission.
Dan Repacholi
In addition to being the current Federal MP for the Hunter region, Dan is a five-time Olympian and Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist. At 15 he finished school and gained his trade as a fitter and turner. He has worked as a coal miner and more recently was the manager for a medium-sized machinery sales business that services the mining and agricultural sectors. He is married and raising two young girls. He has worked hard his whole life to build a better future for himself and his family.
He is a champion for the community and a strong voice for the Hunter.
In 2023 Dan proclaimed the annual National Child Protection Awareness Day in Federal Parliament, following the Umbrella Hearts Child Protection Awareness campaign.
Kay Fraser
With over nineteen years as an elected Councillor for the City of Lake Macquarie and most recently eight years as Mayor of the city, Kay’s expertise and knowledge of local government including Greater Newcastle, the Hunter Region and across the state of New South Wales is unquestionable. She has represented the city for international delegations from countries including China and Japan, as well as regularly meeting with local, state and federal members of parliament.
As the Mayor of the City of Lake Macquarie, the many duties included the Board of Dantia, the economic arm of the City of Lake Macquarie. Additionally, working closely with executive staff including the CEO as well as directors and senior managers and all staff to create a safe and effective workplace for over 1300 people. She has achieved high-quality strategic policy development and advice, assisted committees to improve governance and reporting mechanisms within the council, and presided over citizenship and other mayoral responsibilities with integrity and due diligence.
Madeline Bishop
Madeline has a diverse professional background, having worked extensively in both the education and health sectors, while also dedicating many years to volunteering with various community sporting and health organisations.
As a current Councillor for Lake Macquarie City Council, Madeline is deeply committed to being a strong voice in shaping the city's present and future. She is honoured to continue serving the Lake Macquarie community, as she has previously done in her roles as Councillor and Deputy Mayor.
Cr Bishop is passionate about fostering the arts, supporting libraries, protecting the environment, and advocating for accessible community spaces. She is dedicated to driving economic growth through sustainable development while preserving the unique landscapes and the relaxed lifestyle that define the Lake Macquarie area.
Deborah Wallace
After 37 years in the NSW Police, commanding a range of specialist squads, Deborah has been appointed to the NSW State Parole Authority, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in law enforcement and the criminal justice system. She has worked with an array of community groups including indigenous, migrants, culturally diverse communities and young people. During 2022 and 2023 she hosted the national true crime television series, Million Dollar Murders.
She also keeps busy with charitable work with Meals on Wheels, Swansea Workers & Grace’s Place.
Kate Warner
Lake Macquarie Councillor, Kate Warner is also a practising Solicitor with more than 18 years’ experience working in the public sector. She holds a Bachelor of Law/Arts degree from the University of Newcastle. Cr Warner is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Cr Warner has served as a volunteer on boards for not-for-profits and has been involved in several community organisations, sporting clubs and community events in Lake Macquarie. Furthermore, she has experience in leadership and advocacy and is passionate about matters of social justice.
Kate is a long-term resident of Lake Macquarie where she is proud to raise her young family.