Our Team

Governance Team

John Stevens, BA (UNSW), PhD (UNSW) – Chairperson

John is a Registered Nurse (RN) and holds a PhD. He is Adjunct Associate Professor at Southern Cross University and Conjoint Associate Professor at the University of Newcastle. John co-founded and directs the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine and serves on several health charity boards. With numerous academic publications and roles on editorial boards, he has a strong background in health and community engagement. John is also a founding director of the Gondwana Rainforest Trust.

Richard Christian, BBus, MBA – Chief Executive Officer

Richard brings over 25 years of experience in business development and management, with a strong passion for rainforest conservation. An entrepreneur and strategic thinker, he holds an MBA with Distinction, a Bachelor of Business, and has studied Design and Innovation Thinking at the University of Sydney. Richard has led governance, risk management, and financial sustainability across not-for-profit, government, and commercial sectors. His expertise spans project management, stakeholder engagement, community consultation, marketing, communications, sponsorship, fundraising, and driving innovation for impactful environmental outcomes.

Kelvin Davies - Founder

Kelvin founded Gondwana Rainforest Trust in 2018 to continue his lifelong commitment to protecting and restoring the Earth's rainforests. He has been a founder and co-founder of a number of non-profit organisations and events including Rainforest Rescue and Big Scrub Rainforest Day. His work has inspired and empowered thousands of people to contribute to land purchase, protection, and restoration projects in Australia and around the world.

Staff

James Barrie, Conservation Program Manager

James Barrie, BSc Env.Sc., BA Env.Pl. – Conservation Program Manager

James is passionate about conservation and brings over 25 years of experience working on a wide range of small- and large-scale regeneration projects. With a combined degree in environmental science and environmental planning, he has deep knowledge across multiple ecosystems. James has extensive expertise in native seed collection and propagation, plant health, and field techniques. His hands-on experience and ecological insight continue to drive effective, nature-based restoration outcomes for diverse landscapes and threatened habitats.

Erin Waugh, BComms (Mktg) – Communications Coordinator

Erin is a passionate digital marketer with extensive experience delivering successful campaigns for purpose-driven organisations. She combines creativity with data-led strategy to drive meaningful results across a range of industries. Erin is dedicated to developing impactful digital solutions that align with her personal values, particularly around sustainability and social change. Her work reflects a strong commitment to using digital platforms as a force for good, helping organisations grow their impact while staying true to their mission and values.

Nicci Carter, BBus (Mktg) – Finance Manager

Nicci is a highly trusted and respected finance professional with over 30 years of experience in bookkeeping, accounting, financial management, and payroll — many of those within the environmental not-for-profit sector. She is a Certified Bookkeeper, registered BAS Agent, and Principal of an independent bookkeeping business. As a member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, Nicci is committed to ongoing professional development and best practice, bringing strong financial stewardship and integrity to purpose-driven organisations.

Fiona Ridler, BBus (Mgt) – Executive Assistant & Business Administrator

Fiona brings over 25 years of experience as an Executive Assistant, project coordinator, and business administrator across diverse industries. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Administration and is dedicated to ensuring operations run smoothly while supporting organisational goals. Passionate about sustainability, Fiona contributes to local community groups focused on education and rainforest restoration. She also works to revitalise the rainforest and wildlife habitat on her own property, reflecting her deep commitment to environmental stewardship.