Robin Bragg, Chair

During his career Robin Bragg practised as a mining engineer, mine manager, environmental manager and consultant to the mining industry. Robin admires the historical wealth and colonial architecture of Bendigo and indulges his interests in cryptic crosswords, learning French, playing guitar, walking, gardening and travel. He has always been supportive of “The Arts” and now has a desire to help promote, attract and cultivate diverse forms of performing arts throughout Central Victoria.

Michael McKern, Deputy Chair

Michael is Managing Director of McKern Steel, a major supplier of residential structural steel across Victoria. Guided by strong philanthropic values, he leads the McKern Foundation, supporting local initiatives including the Fresh Fruit Friday program reaching 15,000+ students weekly.

Annette Toohey, Secretary

Annette has a long career in health and the government sector with a keen interest in governance, particularly in the not-for-profit sector. Annette has had a broad range of community involvements and experience and is keen to promote inclusion, access and opportunity for participation in the arts.

Brett Marchant, Treasurer

With a strong background in community leadership and professional services, Brett is a passionate advocate for Bendigo’s arts scene. Brett has developed a deep connection to the community and its cultural identity. He has seen first-hand the powerful impact that arts programs can have on people’s lives – building confidence, fostering self-expression and creating pathways to opportunity. Brett is currently a Partner and Senior Financial Planner with Strategem.

Nathan Scott, Board Member

Nathan is a director and lawyer at Beck Legal, where he leads the firm’s Wills, Estates and Succession Planning team, advising individuals, families and businesses on estate planning and succession strategies including charitable bequests and philanthropic giving. With extensive commercial and governance experience, he enjoys using his professional skills and experience to support the community and contribute to the Foundation’s mission through his role on the Board.

Stephen Briggs, Board Member

Stephen studied Music at the University of Melbourne and began his career as a piano teacher, accompanist, soloist, and ensemble performer across classical, jazz, and blues styles. He later completed studies in education and has served as Head of Music and now Arts Leader at Bendigo South East College, where he leads performing and visual arts programs recognised at state and national levels. Stephen is passionate about ensuring students in rural and regional communities have access to high-quality arts education and the opportunity to excel.

Kristen Beever, Board Member

Kristen is a marketing, communications and events professional with a passion for community engagement and the performing arts. A long-standing member and current Secretary of Bendigo Theatre Company, she has worked across the media, education, arts and not-for-profit sectors, including two stints with Arena Theatre Company. She is also the graphic designer for Bendigo Symphony Orchestra and, alongside her husband Mark, contributes photography to support BSO’s marketing and audience development. Kristen holds a Bachelor of Design (Communications Design) and is currently completing a Master of Teaching.

David Johnson, Board Member

David recently retired from a 40-year career in Bendigo as a Consulting and Principal Psychologist in Private Practice. He has also performed for many years as a lead singer and harmonica player in several Blues Bands in the local and regional scene. Currently, David serves on a number of boards and leadership teams. He is a Gallery Guide at the Bendigo Art Gallery and a keen lawn bowler. David believes in the power of the performing arts to transform and energise lives, and in supporting the people and places that make those transformations possible.

Julie Amos, Board Member ex officio

Manager of Bendigo Venues & Events, Julie Amos is a hands-on Arts Management specialist who has held positions with some of Australia’s biggest companies including The Australian Ballet, Circus Oz, Orchestra Victoria, Opera Queensland, Rock Eisteddfod Challenge, and many more. She has worked abroad for the Royal New Zealand Ballet and on major international sporting events . Julie is a classically trained flautist, whip-cracking champion, show-horse judge, and has a passion for the Arts and country life. Qualifications include a BMus (Flute) and a BFArts (Technical Production).

Liz Wilson, Board Member

Liz Wilson has over 25 years’ experience in arts management in professional and community/volunteer organisations and is a Board Member of Regional Arts Victoria. She has worked for festivals, government, arts funders and creators in Australia and the UK.  Liz plays cello in the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra and is President of Resonance String Orchestra. Qualifications include a Masters of Communication Management at UTS and the AICD Governance Foundations for NFP Directors.