Board Of Directors
Our Board of Directors are responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation. The Board is comprised of 10 volunteers from a range of business and industry sectors. The Directors are guided by GAPDL’s constitution, by-laws and policies and for the duration of their appointment, must be a financial member or a representative of a financial members business.
GAPDL Executive
Robert Gibb
Chairperson
Shelly Stormonth
Treasurer
Elected Directors
Chantale Lane
Elected Director
Chantale Lane is an experienced stakeholder relations leader currently serving as Stakeholder Relations Manager at ConocoPhillips in Gladstone, where she fosters strong partnerships across industry, government and community. With a diverse career spanning executive roles in economic and community development, Chantale brings a strategic and collaborative approach to driving positive regional outcomes. Recently, she completed a Master of Business in Social Impact, reinforcing her commitment to creating meaningful, sustainable change.
tess Groen-int-woud
Elected Director
Tess Groen-Int-Woud is the founder and principal interior designer of GIW Designs, an established interior design studio based in Gladstone. After transitioning from the corporate world to design in 2012, Tess has built a reputation for creating thoughtful, functional and stylish residential and commercial spaces that reflect her clients’ unique personalities and needs. With qualifications in Interior Design, Logistics and Project Management, she combines creative vision with strategic planning to deliver exceptional design outcomes.
Carmen Bolton
Elected Director
Carmen Bolton is the Director of Dive Spear and Sport 1770, an ecotourism-accredited operator based in Agnes Water, delivering authentic and sustainable marine experiences. A Master Reef Guide and experienced dive professional, she combines a strong background in communications and marketing with a passion for reef conservation, sustainability and exceptional visitor experiences.
Mark Slater
Elected Director
Mark Slater is the Director of Rhythmus Leadership Consultancy, a leadership coaching business based in Agnes Water. With a background in senior international management roles at Rio Tinto, Mark brings extensive experience in leadership, operations and team development, alongside a strong commitment to supporting local business, community and tourism growth in the Gladstone Region.
Rod Ainsworth
Elected Director
Rod Ainsworth is the Associate Vice-President for CQUniversity’s Gladstone and Wide Bay Regions, overseeing campuses in Gladstone and Bundaberg. With a career spanning education, regional development, government and the creative industries, Rod brings a strong focus on collaboration and long-term outcomes, and is passionate about advancing regional tourism, education and industry partnerships.
Appointed Directors
Marilyn Steel
Industry Representative
Marilyn Steel is a seasoned communications and corporate relations professional with over 20 years’ experience, currently serving as Corporate Relations Advisor with Shell Australia in Gladstone. She is recognised for her expertise in stakeholder engagement and industry advocacy, and contributes to regional development through roles such as Industry Representative on the Gladstone Region Board of Directors.
Karen Davis
Gladstone Regional Council Representative
Cr Karen Davis is a Councillor with the Gladstone Regional Council, bringing lifelong local insight and community commitment to her role. With more than 25 years’ experience working in conveyancing and small business in the region, Karen champions common-sense leadership and sustainable regional growth, representing her community in local governance and strategic initiatives.
