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Our Staff

Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Catherine Vaara

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

With a double degree in Psychology and Sociology, Catherine brings deep expertise and compassionate leadership to her role as CEO of Lifeline Mid Coast. Her commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in her continued studies that keep her informed and competent, developing skills that have strengthened her ability to lead staff and shape service development. 
Catherine is passionate about delivering community-based, non-clinical crisis support and is a driving force behind Lifeline Mid Coast’s initiatives in suicide prevention and postvention services. She has also played a pivotal role in elevating the organisation’s op shop retail operations, setting a benchmark for excellence across the Lifeline network. Under her leadership, Lifeline Mid Coast has earned widespread recognition for its innovation, integrity, and impact, cementing its reputation as a trusted and respected service provider within the national Lifeline community.
Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Max Schaapveld

Retail Divisional Manager

Max is one of the newest members of the Lifeline Mid Coast leadership team. Recently relocating to Port Macquarie, he brings a diverse background spanning both entrepreneurship and corporate leadership. Having owned and operated several businesses in Orange, Max has also led business units for major organisations including Apple, JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks, The Good Guys and Woolworths. In his role as Retail Divisional Manager, Max oversees Lifeline’s six retail stores and works closely with their talented managers and hundreds of dedicated volunteers to deliver outstanding retail performance and community impact across the Mid North Coast.
Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Patti Parsons

Office & Finance Manager 
Patti began her career with Lifeline Mid Coast in 2007 as an Administration Assistant, bringing a depth of experience from the Health sector. In 2010, she transitioned into the role of Office Manager, where she continues to lead with integrity and compassion. With extensive experience in payroll, administration, and accounts, Patti ensures the smooth operation of Lifeline’s internal systems while also serving as the CEO’s personal assistant. 
Her work is grounded in a steadfast commitment to Lifeline Mid Coast’s values of care, connection, and community resilience. Patti leads a highly skilled and dedicated administration team, including Samantha Burgio (People & Culture Manager), Martha Leonard (Financial Officer), and Cherie Burgess (Administration Officer). Together, they uphold the organisation’s mission with professionalism and heart, supporting both front-line services and strategic initiatives that make a lasting impact across the Mid Coast region. 
Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Samantha Burgio

People & Culture / Human Resources Manager

Samantha began her journey with Lifeline Mid Coast as a Crisis Supporter in 2022 and quickly transitioned to the admin team, providing vital administrative support. In 2023, she took on the role of Human Resource Coordinator, leveraging her nine years of experience in program and people management. Passionate about collaboration and support, Samantha is dedicated to fostering a strong organizational culture and aligning staff with Lifeline’s strategic plan, ensuring that the team thrives in its mission to help those in crisis.

Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Boni Lornie 

Communications and Engagement Specialist

Boni joins Lifeline Mid Coast as the new Communications and Engagement Specialist. Backed by over 25 years of Graphic Design experience, she brings exceptional skill in conceptualisation ideas into fruition. Her strong organizational and relationship-building skills facilitated a successful transition into marketing and communications, leveraging diverse experience across retail, hospitality, and media. Driven by deep compassion and empathy, Boni is excited to utilise her abilities to make a tangible difference in the community. She is committed to elevating Lifeline Mid Coast’s message and connecting with the people it serves.

Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Kelly Saidey

Senior Services Manager | 131114
Kelly began her journey with Lifeline Mid Coast in 2014 as a volunteer Telephone Crisis Supporter. She holds a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) and currently oversees the Suicide Prevention, Postvention, and 13 11 14 Crisis Support teams.Throughout her tenure, Kelly has been instrumental in the growth and delivery of the Eclipse and Bereavement programs both locally and nationally. She has contributed significantly to the research, development, and presentation of Eclipse, and continues to support other Lifeline Centres with the implementation of Eclipse and Suicide Bereavement Support Groups.Kelly is passionate about collaboration and innovation, working closely with participants, staff, and partner organisations to continually enhance Lifeline’s services and strengthen community wellbeing.
Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Catherine Clarke

Crisis Team Assistant Manager

Catherine steps into the role of Crisis Team Assistant Manager with strong experience in mental health support and a deep commitment to Lifeline’s mission. She brings a calm, collaborative leadership style that helps strengthen the crisis team and the quality of care provided to help‑seekers.

Working closely with staff and volunteers, Catherine supports reflective practice, service improvement, and a positive team environment. Her compassion, professionalism, and dedication make her a valued leader who helps ensure Lifeline continues offering safe, empathetic support to people in crisis.





Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

Di Bannister

Training Programs Manager

Di has been a vital part of Lifeline Mid Coast since 1995, leveraging her background in psychology and counselling to make a profound impact. Since 2012, is our Crisis Team Manager Trainer for the 13 11 14 service. Supported by her Crisis Support Team, Catherine, Alexis, Kaye, and a paid team of Overnight Crisis Workers, as well as dedicated volunteer Mentors, In-Shift Supervisors and Crisis Supporters, the team make up part of the 131114 network. Di also provides community education to our community providing presentations on suicide prevention, mental health, and domestic violence. With the support of an amazing team, Di is committed to fostering resilience and awareness in the community.

Lifeline Mid Coast Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention

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PO Box: 5030 Port Macquarie NSW 2444

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