Meet the People Behind First Steps Count

Our team is made up of passionate, skilled individuals who care deeply about the wellbeing of children, families and the wider community. Whether we’re welcoming you at the front desk, supporting service delivery, or shaping strategy behind the scenes, we’re here to make First Steps Count a place that feels safe, warm and truly for you.

Our Team

Featured
Clare Brennan
Centre Director
Clare Brennan
Centre Director

Clare is the driving force behind First Steps Count, bringing deep expertise in health and community services and a lifelong passion for creating better outcomes for children and families.

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Centre Director
Toni Carson
Centre Leader
Toni Carson
Centre Leader

Toni is a proud Darug woman and experienced social worker with over 30 years of dedicated service in the community sector. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership roles across a range of non-government organisations (NGOs) and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), including Awabakal and key services in the Northern Territory.

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Centre Leader
Victoria Schumann
Centre Navigator (Karitane)
Victoria Schumann
Centre Navigator (Karitane)
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Centre Navigator (Karitane)
Stacie Morrison
Office Manager
Stacie Morrison
Office Manager

Stacie holds the place together as our Office Manager and is often the first friendly face you will see when you arrive. Stacie manages room bookings and supports the operations of the hub.

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Office Manager

Our Board

Featured
Rosemary Sinclair AO
Patron
Rosemary Sinclair AO
Patron

As the very first Patron of First Steps Count Incorporated, Rosemary acts as a champion for First Steps Count and its potential to set the standard for all such hubs in the country. She is considered one of the founding members of First Steps Count Child and Community Centre.

Patron
Clare Rogers
Chair
Clare Rogers
Chair

Clare Rogers leverages her extensive background in NSW State Government Human Services and her connection to the MidCoast region to drive the First Steps Count's mission. Having retired and built a home on Biripi land, she is committed to creating an accessible, nurturing environment where families feel valued and supported.

Chair
Barbara Campany
Vice Chair
Barbara Campany
Vice Chair

Barbara is a community‑engagement professional, having worked in senior roles with government, corporate and consultancy. She is an expert in building inclusive, locally‑driven processes that support families.

Vice Chair
Margaret Gardner
Public Officer
Margaret Gardner
Public Officer

With 30 years experience in education at TAFE, Marg has strong connections with the local community and a passion for better outcomes for families in the Manning Valley.

Public Officer
Lynette Syron
Board Member
Lynette Syron
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Karen Freeman
Board Member
Board Member