Just FYI!

 

Katherine Connor | Executive Director | PAC Australia | +61 (0) 419 428 412   |  paca.org.au

 

From: Liz Astin <liz@vapac.org.au>
Sent: Wednesday, 10 June 2026 9:16 AM
To: Jade Smith <jade@vapac.org.au>
Subject: Announcement from VAPAC's Chair | Welcome to our New Executive Committee

 

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Announcement from VAPAC's Chair

Welcome to our New Executive Leadership as VAPAC Enters a New Chapter



Dear Members,

It is a privilege to write to you for the first time as Chair of the VAPAC Executive Committee. Having been involved with VAPAC for close to 10 years, I have seen firsthand the important role our organisation plays in supporting, connecting and advocating for performing arts centres across Victoria. I am honoured to take on this role at such an important time in VAPAC’s journey.

Our organisation is entering a period of transition and renewal. In the coming dayss, we will farewell our Executive Director, Melanie Stevenson, whose leadership has helped strengthen and grow VAPAC. On behalf of the Executive Committee and membership, I thank Melanie sincerely for her dedication and service.

At our recent AGM, we also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Chair Tammy Ryan, Deputy Chair Shana Miatke and Executive Committee member Rebecca Bennell. At the same time, we welcomed five new Executive Committee members who bring fresh perspectives, valuable experience and strong representation from across Victoria.

As we navigate these changes, our focus remains clear: to support, connect and advocate for, our members. Thank you for your ongoing engagement and support. I look forward to working alongside you as we continue to champion the vital role of performing arts centres across Victoria.



Eli Dunevie

Chair, VAPAC

 

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Meet VAPAC's New Executive Committee Members

 

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Simon Myers

Deputy Chair

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Rod Gilbert

Secretary

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Nancy Milligan

 

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Stephen Henderson

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Danny Delahunty

 

 

 

 

 

Meet VAPAC's Continuing Executive Committee Members

 

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Tim Blundell

Treasurer

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Siena Balakrishnan

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Justin Stephens

 

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Kristy Witmitz

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Kathy Corcoran

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David Griffith

 

 

 

 

 

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Thank you and Farewell

We farewell three long-serving board members — Tammy Ryan, Bec Bennell and Shana Miatke — as they complete their maximum term of service.

Tammy Ryan departs after serving as Chair since 2021, having first joined the board in 2018. Her tenure was defined by strategic clarity and a values-led approach that guided the organisation through the upheaval of COVID-19, a period during which she convened weekly member forums that became a vital anchor for arts workers and venues across the state. Her leadership consistently prioritised the development of future sector leaders, including through active participation in The Observership Program. Under her stewardship, VAPAC strengthened its profile, deepened its advocacy influence and built a more connected and resilient membership network.

Bec Bennell, who brought a technical and regional lens to her board work, is particularly proud of the role VAPAC played in providing clear, practical guidance to councils during the rapid changes of the COVID period. Her contributions helped ensure the distinct needs of smaller and regional venues remained visible within the organisation's broader advocacy and information-sharing work.

Shana Miatke leaves behind a strong legacy of regional advocacy, having worked throughout her tenure to ensure venues outside metropolitan areas had a genuine voice at the table. Her involvement in Showcase selection panels, member events and major venue redevelopment projects helped build the practical connections and cross-sector relationships that strengthen VAPAC's reach across Victoria.

We thank you for all you have contributed to VAPAC.