Team

Vanessa has been a member of the Strathfieldsaye & Districts Community Enterprise (SDCE) board for the past three years and currently serves as Chair. A local resident, she is passionate about supporting initiatives that strengthen the community and ensure it continues to thrive.

She is particularly proud of SDCE’s ability to deliver meaningful financial support to local groups, helping bring community-driven projects to life. Vanessa is focused on securing a sustainable, long-term funding model to ensure the Enterprise can continue its work well into the future.

Vanessa encourages both individuals and businesses to support local wherever possible, recognising that strong community connections and a healthy local economy are key to ongoing success.

Jodie White has deep roots in Strathfieldsaye, having grown up in the area and now raising her own family within the community. She has been involved with SDCE for approximately four years and brings a strong passion for community connection, wellbeing and collaboration.

Jodie is particularly proud of her leadership in the “Saving Lives 24/7” initiative, which delivered AED installations and accredited First Aid training across the region. Seeing the immediate, real-world impact of this project reinforced the importance of accessible resources and community preparedness.

She is committed to supporting projects that enhance wellbeing, strengthen relationships and encourage participation, helping to create a more connected, inclusive and resilient community.

Andrew Austin grew up in Strathfieldsaye and has raised his family locally, giving him a strong and lasting connection to the community. He has been a member of the SDCE board for over four years and currently serves as Secretary.

He was drawn to SDCE by the tangible impact it delivers through reinvestment into local projects and initiatives. Andrew is especially proud of his involvement in the Community Grants Program, which has supported a wide range of local organisations and contributed to long-term community outcomes.

Andrew is passionate about fostering partnerships with local businesses and community members, recognising that collaboration is key to sustaining and growing the Enterprise’s impact.

Josh Griffin has a long-standing connection to Strathfieldsaye, having first moved to the area in 1994. After spending time away, he returned in 2018 with his young family, driven by a desire to raise his children in the same strong community environment he experienced growing up.

A Chartered Accountant and Partner at AFS & Associates, Josh brings valuable financial expertise to the board. He was appointed Treasurer in 2019 and plays a key role in ensuring the ongoing financial sustainability of the Enterprise.

Josh is passionate about supporting initiatives that enhance the community and provide opportunities for future generations to enjoy everything Strathfieldsaye has to offer.

Adam Place has lived in Strathfieldsaye for over 15 years and has been actively involved in a range of local school and sporting organisations. He joined the SDCE board in 2022 after seeing the positive impact the Enterprise has across the community.

He is particularly proud of the Axe Creek restoration project, which has transformed a valuable natural space for the benefit of the community. Adam is passionate about building strong partnerships and sees collaboration with local businesses as a key driver of SDCE’s ongoing success.

He hopes to see the Enterprise secure long-term funding partnerships that will support sustainable growth and continued delivery of impactful community projects.

Brandon Jackson has strong local ties to Strathfieldsaye and the surrounding area, having grown up nearby and now raising his own young family in the community. He joined the SDCE board just over a year ago, driven by a desire to contribute to the place his family calls home.

Brandon plays a key role in managing SDCE’s social media presence, helping to grow engagement and increase visibility for local businesses, events and community initiatives. He is particularly passionate about promoting local success stories and strengthening connections across the region.

He sees SDCE evolving into a central hub for community information, engagement and support, connecting people with local opportunities and celebrating what makes the area unique.

Debbie Henderson has lived in Strathfieldsaye for over 30 years and has strong ties to the local community through family, work and volunteering. She joined the SDCE board in 2024 to take a more active role in supporting the area’s continued growth and vibrancy.

She has already contributed to a number of initiatives, including community grants, First Aid training programs and the provision of defibrillators to local organisations. Debbie is also heavily involved in the development of the Spring Fling Family Fun Day, which celebrates local businesses, clubs and community spirit.

Debbie is passionate about supporting initiatives that strengthen the community and provide lasting benefits for local families and organisations.

Dennis Johanson is a long-standing member of the Strathfieldsaye community, having lived in the area for over 40 years. He has been involved with SDCE since its inception and has played an important role in shaping its direction over time.

Dennis has contributed to a range of significant local projects, including the development of walking and cycling paths and environmental rehabilitation works along local waterways. His passion for community development has been a consistent driver throughout his involvement.

He remains focused on ensuring the Enterprise continues to evolve and deliver meaningful, lasting outcomes for the broader community.

Susan Bibby is a local veterinarian who has strong ties to the Strathfieldsaye community, having grown up in the area before returning to establish her business. She joined the SDCE board two years ago, motivated by a desire to support local groups and expand access to community funding.

Susan is passionate about community engagement and enjoys connecting with people at local events, helping raise awareness of SDCE and its impact. She is particularly proud of supporting grassroots initiatives such as the Strathfieldsaye Street Pantry, which provides practical support to those in need.

She is committed to fostering a more inclusive, connected and supportive community through SDCE’s ongoing work.