Our Staff
Alisha Wong
Accountant
Email: alishaw (at) juliafarr (dot) org (dot) au
I work as an accountant in the finance team, providing financial support across all areas of the organisation. I feel fortunate to be part of a team of passionate people, working together to achieve meaningful outcomes for people with disability.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors and cooking and trying new foods. When I’m not travelling with friends and family, I’m dreaming about my next adventure!
Alison Vivian
Project Leader - Our Voice SA
Phone: (08) 8373 8321
Email: alisonv (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
My work at JFA Purple Orange involves supporting Our Voice SA group to become stronger and to run self-advocacy workshops for people living with an intellectual disability in South Australian country regions.
I love being able to work alongside people to live their best life, being part of the Purple Orange team means I can help people understand their rights and give them the confidence to speak up and have a say about what happens in their lives.
When not working I enjoy crocheting, going to country music events and camping with my husband and two boys.
Amy White
Policy and Research Leader
Phone: 8373 8303
Email: amyw (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I am passionate about promoting the rights, choices and inclusion of all people, particularly people who are vulnerable, disadvantaged and/or live with disability. My work at JFA Purple Orange allows me to assist people living with disability to access the supports they need to achieve their goals, be part of the community and live the life they choose. My work also allows me to influence and educate others about the issues experienced by people living with disability, such as housing and inclusion. When I’m not at work, I enjoy baking, walking, and attending live sport, theatre, and concerts.
Andrew Gibson
Project Leader - SKILL
Phone: 0413 854 863
Email: andrewg (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
In my work with the SKILL Project I get to talk with people about ideas, options and opportunities to build new skills and make changes in their lives. I really enjoy supporting people to make their own choices through providing meaningful information to make this happen. I am a creative and active person, and when I’m not working, I like to get out and about to markets and restaurants, live music gigs, travel around our country and the world, and listen to Rock and Roll music!
Angus Fowler
Administration Officer - Enabled Youth Disability Network
Phone: (08) 8373 8319
Email: angusf (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I work with Julia Farr Youth, a committed group of young people living with disability, working with and advocating for young people living with disability in South Australia. I assist with the running of our youth Peer Support Network.
I’m passionate about working with young people. They are often overlooked when really they have so much knowledge through lived experience that can shape the community and support others to live a full life.
I’m a sports and music nut who loves the outdoors. You’ll find me at the cricket, footy or at a live gig.
Ayla Regione
Project Officer - Road to Employment
Email: aylar (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I work with people to create inclusive and accessible workplaces. My hope is for people to feel they can thrive, in every way possible, when it comes to their chosen education and career, goals and adventures in life. I get excited when I hear stories or moments that celebrate this and believe it has the power to create meaningful and positive change. In my downtime, I love sports, travelling, food and relaxing with my family at the beach.
Belle Owen
Manager, Policy & Projects
Email: belleo (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I'm fortunate in my role to provide support to some fantastic projects that connect South Australians with disability to each other via peer networks, and provide our community with information they might need to live the life they want and deserve. Another thing I do is work with the policy team. I do this by supporting them in their goal of encouraging government to prioritise disability inclusion in all of their decisions. I also work with other organisations to encourage them and give them strategies on how to better their own access and inclusion. I'm committed to Disability Justice and bring my own perspective as a proud disabled woman, and my experience working with the broader disability community to all that I do in work and life. Outside of work, my life revolves around my rescue dog Dolly.
Bradley Semple
Manager, Procurement and Risk
Email: bradleys (at) juliafarr (dot) org (dot) au
In my role across the Julia Farr group, I support the management of risk frameworks and procurement processes, and assist with corporate technology management, drawing on my background in managing IT teams.
I joined the Julia Farr group in September 2024, seeking an organisation driven by purpose beyond profit. After reaching a point in my career where I wanted to give back, I was drawn to the not-for-profit sector, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that values impact and inclusion. Working within the disability sector has been a meaningful learning experience, and I am continually inspired by the dedication and passion of my colleagues.
Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new technologies, gaming, and home automation projects. Other hobbies of mine include running, fitness, cars, and spending quality time with my family and our blue heeler, Sully.
Carey Scheer
Media Production and Connection Leader
Phone: (08) 8373 8332
Email: careys (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I help JFA Purple Orange tell stories that get to the core of what they do and why they do it. My favourite projects to work on are the ones that amplify the voices of the people JFA Purple Orange exists for. It's an honour to listen to each and every person's story I have the privilege to share.
When I'm not behind a camera or in the editing suite, you may find me climbing a giant rock somewhere.
Cathy Cochrane
Policy and Research Leader
Email: cathyc (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
My work at JFA Purple Orange focuses on local government, accessible communities, and inclusive neighbourhoods. My strong sense of curiosity drives me to research policy issues and to find out the history behind why things are the way they are. I value hearing about people’s experiences and enjoy the challenges of analysing problems, developing solutions, and writing persuasively to influence real-world change. When the weather obliges, I like going for long walks, and when it doesn’t, I love reading books and listening to podcasts.
Christine Farina
Finance Officer
Phone: (08) 8373 8308
Email: christinef (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I work in the finance team and look after the day to day financial demands of the organisation. I have been lucky enough to work here for nearly ten years and have loved the ever changing environment and the progressive nature of Purple Orange.
When I’m not at work I’m kept busy by my gorgeous family, shopping and dreaming about travelling to new and exciting destinations.
Elizabeth Farrant
Project Leader
Phone: (08) 8373 8333
Email: elizabethf (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I spent my time thinking about how we can increase the quality, consistency, training and support of disability support workers. I am passionate about great support and keeping excellent support workers in the sector for as long as possible. My project holds workshops for people in support roles of any kinds, along with a community of practice which bring support workers together to chat, reflect and connect. I work with our sister organisation inhousing as well, making sure that their tenancy team know what great support looks like and helping our tenants get the most from their homes and communities.
Outside of work, I have a greyhound named Doc. I spend my spare time laughing at the upside down nature of his sleep.
Ellen Fraser-Barbour
Policy and Research Leader
Email: ellenf (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
My name is Ellen. I am passionate about people with disability sharing their experiences and being heard on topics they want to talk about.. I listen, read and think critically about the many small and big issues that people with disability talk about and then advocate to government and community for change. Outside of work, I love hiking and travelling off the beaten track or burrowing down at home with a movie.
Ewa Lamont
Project Officer - Road to Employment
Email: ewal (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
At Purple Orange, I am working on a project to increase inclusion for students living with disabilities in schools. I am passionate about inclusive education and the positive impact it has on everyone. I am excited about seeing the flow on effect of inclusion outside the classroom into society from this project, and all the work Purple Orange does. When I am not at work I love to play boardgames or paint and hide rocks for ‘SA Rocks’
Heidi Molloy
HR Business Partner
Email: heidim (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I love working in an organisation that so closely mirrors my values of inclusion and social justice. In my role within Human Resources, I have the opportunity to support the impactful work that Purple Orange teams do in the community, helping to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
In my spare time, you’ll find me at a quiz night at least once a week, enjoying a meal or event with family and friends, or spending time with my dogs.
James Murphy
Policy and Research Officer
Email: jamesm (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I work on discovering new ways that people in positions of power, like politicians and people who work for the government or business, can play their part in improving the lives of people living with a disability. Once the team I work with and I discover these new ways, we speak up to the powerful people about our ideas and hope they listen. I love having the opportunity to try to improve the lives of many people all at once. I have lived with disability in my household all my life, so I value bringing these first hand experiences to Purple Orange. I have a passion for seeing almost every type of live music or arts, ranging from opera and modern dance to heavy metal and stand-up comedians.
Jane Arnott
Strategy Leader Governance and Philanthropy
Email: janea (at) juliafarr (dot) org (dot) au
I work with the board and team at Purple Orange to make sure that they have the information they need to make good decisions for our community and organisation. I also work with the people and organisations that we support through our grant programs.
I love working with so many different people who each bring their own experiences and skills to Purple Orange – I’m learning new things every day.
Outside of work you’ll find me outside! I spend weekends looking after our tiny garden, riding my bike, and hiking.
Jason Chua
Accountant
Email: jasonc (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I’m an accountant situated in the finance team, and I provide financial assistance to the Julia Farr group. Seeing the social successes of JFA Purple Orange validates for me the fit and compatibility with my own core values. It is always heart-warming seeing positive results from our collective endeavours.
On a personal note, I try to keep fit when I can but looking after two young kids makes it difficult. I love food and cooking, as well as Lego, cycling, cricket and I’ve been recently nerding out in the world of whisky.
Jen Hoskin
HR Administrator
Email: jenh (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I love working in human resources and helping others to achieve their goals. My work is very meaningful as I'm often behind the scenes (with a team) working out a solution to a process problem. I love problem-solving and working with my team to improve practices which ultimately helps people feel valued and safe at work.
To me getting the basics right as well as being kind, understanding and supportive means we can continue to build and add value to the amazing work we do. I'm blown away seeing our people doing amazing things every day to support one another and the community.
When I'm not at work, I'm loving life and often discovering new favourite places with my 3 daughters.
Jessie Smith
Project Officer - Tourism Local Navigator
Email: jessies (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I work with the tourism industry, providing one-on-one business mentoring to guide them through inclusive recruitment with the aim of seeing more people with disabilities employed in the industry. My favourite part of my job is using my lived experience of disability to enrich the mentoring and make a change for people just like me!
Outside of work, I am a former registered elite athlete with the University of South Australia (graduated 2023 Bachelor of Human Movement/ Bachelor of Psychology), as a national level Dressage and Show Horse rider.
Karine Richard
Project Officer - SKILL
Email: kariner (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
My job is to help people better understand how they can help themselves. No matter what abilities, identities, shapes or colours, all should be given the right and means to that famous “fair go”. I love seeing individuals gain control of their own lives and achieve what truly matters to them. I feel at home within a team and organisation that gives real, practical meaning to respect and inclusion. On days off I tackle the weeds in my garden, badger my children to spend time with me, and always have a beading project on hand when all else fails.
Katie Bonner
Executive Assistant to CEO
Phone: (08) 8373 8301
Email: katieb (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I administer our grants program and offer logistical support to various projects we run, as well as provide administrative support to the office.
It is really touching to know that I play a small part in making a difference to our grant recipients lives and that makes my job very fulfilling.
In my spare time I love taking photos, skyping my family back home and hanging out with my husband and our cats Reggie and Jasper.
Louie Dempsey
Project Leader - Enabled Youth Disability Network
Email: louied (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
Since February 2023 I joined Enabled Youth Disability Network’s (EYDN) as the Project Leader. I organise and help support EYDN peer network meetings, workshops, events and advocacy. Accessibility and inclusive education has always been a strong value of mine and I believe positive change for a more accessible world starts with listening to the experiences of young people. The Best part of my job is connecting members together by celebrating and acknowledging the important role of young people living with disability in our community. We also get to have a lot of fun learning new skills and activities while we advocate. When I’m not at work you might find me spending time with family and dogs or exploring the Adelaide art scene.
Lily Durkin
Project Leader - Enabled Youth Disability Network
Email: lilyd (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I am the Project Leader for the Enabled Youth Disability Network (EYDN). I work with EYDN’s Board and members to plan fun events and workshops for young people with a disability. The EYDN team and I also work with the EYDN Board to network, advocate, and raise awareness and understanding of being a young person and having a disability. I have loved immersing myself in this role since joining Purple Orange and my favourite part of my job is working with EYDN members and the Board to advocate for the disability community, ensuring the incredible ideas, projects and dreams of the Board come to life! I have lived experience as a physically disabled woman and have been a disability advocate for more than 10 years. I have always been drawn to community advocacy work and supporting other people with disability to connect! When I'm not working with EYDN, I am continuing my own advocacy work, studying my Bachelor of Psychology (while drinking lots of coffee) and going on fun adventures with my partner and two little ones!
Linda Carrapiett
Chief Financial Officer
Phone: (08) 8373 8329
Email: lindac (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I lead the financial and administration areas of the organisation. Our team provides information to key stakeholders on financial and admin matters.
I enjoy working alongside talented staff to produce accurate information to help in the decision making of the organisation. I enjoy the progressive nature of the organisation and the diversity of work we are involved in, as no two days are the same.
When I am not at work, I enjoy cooking and baking with my family, catching up with friends and swimming.
Marissa Brown
Leader - Marketing and Communications
Email: marissab (at) juliafarr (dot) org (dot) au
My job is to coordinate the marketing and communications activities at JFA Purple Orange and the broader Julia Farr group, so that more people are aware of the great work that we do. My favourite part of the job is listening to the goals that my colleagues want to achieve, and working out how marketing and communications can help them get there. I’m drawn to this work because I want to use my skills for the greater good, and because I believe that everyone has the right to enjoy what life has to offer, no matter their circumstances. Outside of work, you’ll find me spending time with my husband and two teenagers, going for walks around my neighbourhood, and playing the odd retro video game.
Melanie Merlino
Digital Communications Officer
Email: melaniem (at) juliafarr (dot) org (dot) au
I'm responsible for helping promote the services and offerings of Julia Farr's Inhousing social enterprise and supporting the marketing and communications of the broader Julia Farr group. The ability to have a positive and lasting impact on the community around me is what drives me in my work and I love to explore different and engaging ways of amplifying the voices of people living with disability and sharing the work we do. Outside of work, I love getting outdoors and among nature with my family, working on my karate skills or curling up on the couch with a good fiction novel.
Nick Roach
Digital Communications Officer
Email: nicoler (at) juliafarr (dot) org (dot) au
I help spread the word about the work Purple Orange does supporting people living with disability through online communication. I love sharing information about communities’ people may not have heard about, allowing people the opportunity to join communities that value and accept them for their true selves. I believe everyone deserves an equal opportunity in life, driving me in my work to help create change. Outside of work, I love computer gaming and tabletop wargaming, having taken a few Lord of the Rings tabletop armies to tournaments within Australia.
Rebecca Dowd
Policy and Research Leader
Phone: (08) 8373 8312
Email: rebeccad (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
Social justice is what drives me. I believe that together, we can achieve a world in which all people have the opportunity to live a positive life and fulfil their goals. My research and policy role at Purple Orange centres on community membership: what this means for people living with disability and how it can best be realised. I bring a human rights perspective to my work. Outside of the office, I love learning about the world through language, reading, teaching English to people who are new to Australia and, of course, travel.
Robbi Williams
Chief Executive Officer
Phone: (08) 8373 8333
Email: robbiw (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I lead the organisation’s work and I try to make sure each of our talented staff has what they need to make the biggest impact. I believe that life is too short to not have an opinion, and that an opinion needs to be well-informed and values-driven. I am also moved by the power of community, and how neighbourliness can create genuine belonging. In my personal life I see this every Saturday morning as the Event Director at my local parkrun.
Selena Maddeford
Manager, Policy and Projects
Email: selenam (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I provide support to some of our amazing projects that connect people with disability to their peers, information, communities, and decision makers to ensure their voices are heard. They also work to break down the societal barriers that prevent them actively contributing to their community on an equal basis. I am also part of the policy team, contributing to issues-based systemic advocacy across all levels of government and key stakeholders, with key interest in the areas of housing and inclusive (and accessible) communities. When I am not working, I love caravanning with my husband and two young busy boys, preferably somewhere warm and sunny.
Tessa Deak
Project Leader - Regional
Email: tessad (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I am an enthusiastic chronic illness and disability advocate from the Limestone Coast. With my work with Purple Orange, I get to support the running of projects in Mount Gambier and Regional SA. I love being involved in bringing supports, education, and empowerment to areas outside of our state capital. I enjoy being creative, baking choc chip peanut butter cookies, and getting involved in my beautiful community where I can.
Tracey Wallace
Policy and Research Leader
Phone: (08) 8373 8326
Email: traceyw (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I work with talented and passionate people to try to influence policies to improve the life chances of people living with disability. My particular focus is to influence policies that support people living with disability to gain employment and also looking at ways to improve how the NDIS works together with other mainstream services to provide the best outcomes for people living with disability.
When I’m not at work, you will find me hanging out with my three young boys and squeezing in a run, game of netball or Pilates class.
Tristan Salim
Project Officer - Our Voice SA
Phone: (08) 8373 8321
Email: tristans (at) purpleorange (dot) org (dot) au
I help people who don’t always get to speak up, making sure they get their message across. I believe people should always have a say in their own lives. My favourite part of my job is that I get to meet people from all over our community. I enjoy getting to see people come out of their shell and gain confidence. Outside of work I love to kayak, play tennis and hang out with all of the animals.