Meet the Team
Nicki Dunne, Manager
Wombat’s Wish was proud to welcome Nicki Dunne in 2020 in the vital role of Manager, overseeing the growth and expansion of our organisation. Appreciated for her strategic vision and skill in management and business planning, Nicki comes with more than 35 years as a highly-recognised local figure in community services and charity. She holds Diplomas in Youth Work and Welfare Studies, along with multiple certifications in mental health support and is a qualified trainer and assessor.
An Australian of the Year finalist, Nicki has also been recognised by the State Government of Victoria, City of Greater Geelong and other major organisations for her contributions, including awards for Community Worker of the Year (2009), Youth Worker of the Year (2010 and 2011 winner, 2018 finalist) and Westfield Local Community Hero (finalist 2017) among others.
As well as managing all day-to-day Wombat’s Wish operations, you can meet Nicki at our Weekend Camps, Family Days and pre-camp assessments. She’s also a regular guest speaker and even pops up in the media from time to time, helping Wombat’s Wish reach families and organisations all across Victoria.
Suzy Coad, Community Engagement Officer
In July 2023 Wombat’s Wish were pleased to announce the addition of Suzy Coad to our permanent team. Suzy has played an important role in our Wombat’s Wish Weekend Camp Program and Family Days for many years, and many of our camp families will have great memories of taking part in her ‘Suzy Sports’ activities, having long conversations together or receiving one of her famous hugs. Suzy comes with many years of diverse professional experience in people management, counselling and support roles for both government and private organisations. She also has a strong presence in the local community, establishing a successful business as a Personal Trainer and acting as Coordinator and Chairperson in multiple volunteer committees around Ocean Grove.
Suzy holds both a Bachelor and Graduate Diploma of Psychology and Certificate IV in Fitness. She’s currently studying a Diploma in Counselling and is particularly passionate about providing grief and bereavement support. You’ll meet Suzy on camp, during family consults, or as a highly knowledgeable and approachable first point of contact with Wombat’s Wish.