Together for Communities 2026

Building Communities of Hope

You are invited to a community transformation event with church
& community leaders from across Australia.

These events unite individuals, churches and community leaders to inspire, equip one another in living out the way of Jesus in their communities. We are privileged to have several distinguished keynote speakers and supporters of COACH Network join us, each a leader in their field and instrumental in community transformation across churches and organisations working in a variety of sectors.

Along with keynote speaker sessions, each event features a story telling panel with leading practitioners.

The Together For Communities events promise to be a space of inspiration, connection and collaboration.

Keynote Speakers

Queensland

Selena is an experienced psychologist with over 30 years’ experience in child and family counselling, training, program development and community facilitation. She was one of the founders and the CEO of Outback Futures, where she developed the Community Facilitation Model for rural and remote mental health, earning widespread recognition (including being named one of Qantas’ Top 100 Inspiring Australians in 2020). Selena now runs her own consultancy, drawing together her psychology background, public speaking and training experience, and deep understanding of how individuals, organisations, families and communities navigate change and challenge. 

South Australia

Ian Dicks is Dean of Ministry Practice and Lecturer in Ministry Engagement and Missiology at Tabor College, Adelaide. Originally from Adelaide, Ian and his wife Wendy spent more than 20 years working interculturally among the Muslim Yawo people in Malawi with Baptist Mission Australia. Their work involved sharing the good news, establishing communities of Jesus’ followers, and serving alongside local communities. 

Victoria

Rose is a founding member of the Old Church on the Hill. She has over 20 years’ experience working in the community sector, including senior leadership roles within community development and refugee settlement organisations. 

New South Wales

Sharon was appointed Mission Australia’s CEO in 2022. Adopting a servant-leadership style and a strong strategic focus, Sharon is committed to Mission Australia’s vision of building hope and possibility for all.

She has extensive experience in the Christian not-for-profit sector and managing large community service organisations, particularly within the aged care and social services sectors.

Sharon holds a Graduate Diploma from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor Degree in Health Administration, and is a Registered Nurse. She is Deputy Board Chair of James Milson Village. Sharon currently worships at Mary Immaculate Church: Diocese of Broken Bay.

25th March 2025

5th September 2025

9th September 2025

11th September 2025

Queensland

Chair of Seedbeds Australia 

Duncan is the Founder and Managing Director of Brisbane Valley Protein, a pioneering agricultural enterprise. Previously, Duncan had a distinguished career in journalism. He also served as CEO of SU Qld, and is the founder of Capacity Builders. Currently, Duncan is Chair of Seedbeds Australia and serves as a pastor.

Victoria

Executive Director of Micah Australia 

Tim is one of Australia’s most respected community leaders and a sought after voice on social justice issues. He is Executive Director of Micah Australia and Director of Ethical Voice. For 13 years, Tim was Chief Executive of World Vision Australia. His earlier roles included National President of the Baptist Union of Australia and Mayor of St Kilda.

New South Wales

CEO & Superintendent Minister of Wesley Mission 

Stu is CEO and Superintendent Minister of Wesley Mission, an ordained Uniting Church Minister and qualified accountant. He is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and collaborative leader who loves to weave business principles into his biblically informed leadership. He is passionate about advocacy and stewardship.

Join us for a day of learning, sharing, and growth as we work together to make a positive impact in our communities.

Featuring Contributors from: