Surette has been part of the NewHope family since February 2006, starting as Finance Manager before her role naturally evolved. She joined the Executive Leadership Team a year later and stepped into the Executive Pastor role in 2018, focusing on governance, oversight, and business management. As an Arrow Executive alumni (Cohort 14) and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, she’s passionate about helping people find their sweet spot to serve in ways that grow them and add value to the organisation.

This decaf latte-drinking, fast-talking, South African reserves Friday afternoons for her greatest joy—spending time with grandchildren Lincoln and Amelia, who call her “Oumie.” When she’s not working with her beloved NewHope Dream Team, you’ll find Surette at 7am Pilates, playing tennis with her husband Richard on the aptly-named “Mixed-Up” team, or planning the next camping and hiking adventure. She’s a fanatic organiser who loves gardening, and somehow still owns (and wears) clothes from her uni days. Fun fact: she’s actually a lawyer.

Coffee Order: Extra Hot Skinny Decaf Latte
Work Days: Monday – Friday