Helping Cultivate Country
OUTBACK SPIRIT FOUNDATION
THE FOUNDATION'S BOARD
Chris Mara
Chris has a long association with Aboriginal issues and development. Chris established Coles Group’s Indigenous philanthropic programs in 2001 including Coles Indigenous Food Fund, relationships with the Arnhem Land Progress Association (ALPA) and Outback Stores. Chris also shaped Coles on the implementation of its successful Indigenous employment program, Indigenous supply chains and Coles philanthropic partners.
Chris is a former Corporate Affairs Adviser to Coles Group and inaugural Chair of Coles Indigenous Food Fund until 2014. Chris has broad private (Coles Myer & NAB) and public sector (ACCC, Defence) experience in Government and Public relations. In 2015 Chris was appointed as the Foundation’s Executive Director. In 2021 Chris was elected as Chair of the Foundation.
Juleigh was and founder of the Outback Spirit brand and has over three decades experience in sourcing native bush foods from Aboriginal communities throughout Australia. She has worked with a wide range of government research groups to develop native foods and the inspiration for the establishment of the Foundation.
While not a Trustee, Juleigh is a 'Special Adviser' to the Board - given her inspiration and experience. Juleigh generously provides her time and expertise to Aboriginal Communities and groups about native plant species and cultivation.
Paul is a self driven business owner and entrepreneur. Having developed a unique blend of business skills acquired over twenty years, a love for the great outdoors, the Outback and everything else our amazing country has to offer.
Paul brings a new and substantive array of ideas for the development of the Foundation, its fundraising and support for Aboriginal enterprises growing edible plants on Country for their future.
Jamie Zuidema
Jeremy Maxwell
Paul Nunn
Juleigh Robins
Jamie is a Director of Essential Business Services working with Business owners to improve outcomes for Small and Medium Business owners. Jamie has four other businesses under management and 25 years of successful in developing small businesses. Jamie brings a a wealth of business acumen and strategic vision to the Board. Jamie was raised in country Victoria and has a keen interest in ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live the life of their choosing. Jamie is determined to ensure the Foundation facilitates that opportunity for Aboriginal famers.
Jeremy is an accomplished not-for-profit leader, corporate adviser, fundraiser and executive manager with broad experience in NFP income generation, across all major fundraising disciplines. Jeremy is a passionate believer that great philanthropic cultures are key to driving better performance.
Jeremy's comprehensive experience includes strategic planning, campaign initiatives, leading and managing teams and implementing substantive programs.
Jeremy has volunteered in a multitude of leadership roles in NFP, charity, and community organisations for over 40 years and professional salaried roles as a NFP executive for over 20 years.
Dominic Smith
Dominic recently joins our board, after years of establishing his successful bush tucker farm in North East South Australia.
His expertise and knowledge of Native foods is invaluable for future beneficiaries of the foundation. Dominic grows native and contemporary herbs under his Pundi brands and is sold and distributed through Australia and overseas.
