CHAIR

Tim is an ex-banker specialising in risk management, returning to Oz from Hong Kong in 2020. He is a Non-Executive Director of Bank of China Australia Limited and Indue Limited. He loves the way WOW delivers practical results for those needing support and that our approach is supported by solid clinical research. He calls it a winning combination of heart and head! You’ll find him surfing anywhere with an open-faced left-hander, a gentle offshore and ideally with his son as a surf buddy. And if you were wondering, Tim tells us you CAN surf in Hong Kong… if you search hard enough and are very patient!

DEPUTY CHAIR

Phil is a clinical neuroscientist and UNSW professor of psychiatry who has always loved body surfing. Since working with Joel Pilgrim in 2013, Phil has been blown away by the positive outcomes that surf therapy can achieve for people living with mental health challenges. Phil is passionate about building the evidence base for this novel therapy and is inspired by the positive vibe surrounding WOW and the people who support it.

DIRECTOR

Sarah is a Registered Psychologist with experience in HR, Leadership Development and Change Management. As an Executive Manager at Westpac and mum of 2 daughters, Sarah uses meditation, yoga, and hiking to help keep her mind, body and spirit balanced. Sarah became part of the Waves of Wellness tribe through her passion for helping others be the best version of themselves and her belief in the power of nature to heal and inspire. Sarah says there’s nothing more grounding than sand between your toes and a deep breath of salt air…before you get dunked by the next wave.

DIRECTOR

Steve Brennen, a devoted father of two daughters and a seasoned professional in business growth, brings his wealth of experience to the Waves of Wellness Foundation as the Commercial Board Director. Originally from the UK but now lives in Australia, he has a deep personal understanding of the challenges associated with mental health, an insight that fuels his commitment to the cause.

Steve's career includes pivotal C-level roles in globally renowned companies like PayPal, Uber, eBay, Virgin, and Zip, where he was instrumental in elevating three of these brands to the top spot in their respective industries. As the CEO and founder of Archie Growth, an accelerator for scale-ups, and the longstanding chair of ADMA, Australia's largest marketing association, he has a keen eye for innovation and strategic partnerships. 

Steve is eager to connect with businesses or brands looking to make a meaningful impact by partnering with Waves of Wellness. His goal is to elevate the organization's profile and expand its influence and impact in addressing mental health issues. 

DIRECTOR

Helen embarked on a portfolio career in Oz after spending decades abroad as a corporate lawyer working in Europe and China. She loves the energy, sense of purpose, and depth of research and experience, which support WOW. Not to mention the joy and connection among program participants and facilitators. When she’s not working, you’ll find her at Elwood Beach on Port Philip Bay, where she is gently easing herself into year-round open-water swimming. She also backs herself as a trivia master, so long as the music questions are capped at the nineties!

DIRECTOR

Lindsey brings her experience in leadership roles in advertising, marketing and brand consultancy nationally and internationally to the board. She is a global partner in one of the world’s leading independent advertising agencies, working with Uber, ANZ, Bonds, Pepsico, and Virgin Australia. Lindsey is a big believer in using the power of creativity to create change and is passionate about the proven efficacy of surf therapy in bringing the necessary innovation to mental health. She cares deeply about the issue as a human, a business leader and the mother of three teenage children.

DIRECTOR

Libby comes from a background in Finance; as the Chief Financial Officer at UNSW Sydney, she is responsible for the University’s financial direction and management. Before this, Libby was a senior executive in the NSW government and held senior leadership roles in the portfolios of justice, communities, arts, education, treasury, and health. Originally from Dubbo, Libby grew up far from the ocean, yet her awareness of the significant Mental Health strain on the community led her to the board of directors at WOW. When Libby isn’t crunching numbers or offering financial advice, you’ll find her snuggled up with her two chihuahuas - Josie and Javier - her self-expressed ‘replacement children’.