Gillian Manson is the Chief Executive Officer of Active Education Australia (formerly ACHPER Victoria), where she leads the organisation’s strategic direction and national growth. With extensive experience in leadership, sport governance and the not-for-profit sector, Gillian is passionate about strengthening the role of Health and Physical Education in schools and communities. She works closely with educators, partners and organisations across Australia to expand professional learning, resources and programs that support quality teaching, active lifestyles and positive wellbeing outcomes for students and educators.

Scott Darlow is an Aboriginal man from Yorta Yorta country who lives on Naarm (Melbourne). An educator, public speaker and recording artist, he works with more than 100 schools each year across Australia, Asia and the United Kingdom. Originally a Victorian school teacher, Scott combines music and storytelling to share his culture and support Reconciliation and truth-telling. He also delivers professional learning for educators, helping teachers understand the importance of First Nations perspectives and build confidence teaching this content.

Joshua Simpson is a passionate Primary Physical Education teacher with over 10 years of experience, alongside three years as a coach and Athletic Director in the USA. He is the founder of HeadsUpHPE, a platform providing creative, practical resources to engage students and develop Fundamental Movement Skills through play-based learning.

Joshua holds a dual degree in Education and Sport & Outdoor Recreation from Monash University and brings an energetic, student-centred approach to PE. His philosophy of “connection before content” underpins his work, focusing on building relationships to support inclusive, meaningful learning and lifelong engagement in physical activity.

Samantha Barrow is a Physical Activity Advisor with ACHPER Victoria, working as part of the Expert Support Service team delivering the Active Schools project on behalf of the Department of Education. Samantha brings over 25 years of experience as a Secondary Health and Physical Education teacher. Originally from NSW, she has held multiple leadership roles throughout her career, including Head of HPE and Head of Sport. Samantha is passionate about supporting schools to create engaging, active environments that promote student wellbeing and participation.

Ashley Gurney is the Founder and Managing Director of Alcohol, Drug & Mental Health Education Specialists (AD+MH), established in 2010 to reduce harm through education. With over 20 years’ experience, Ashley holds qualifications in Behavioural Neuroscience, Alcohol and Other Drugs, Mental Health, and Training and Assessment, and is a Principal Master Instructor in Mental Health First Aid and certified LEGO Serious Play facilitator.

He previously worked as a youth outreach worker with the Salvation Army and in nightclub management. AD+MH now supports universities, schools, and organisations across Australia and New Zealand, reaching more than a million people annually through training, resources, and programs.

James Podsiadly is a father, educator and entrepreneur passionate about helping young people live active, confident lives. He holds degrees in Exercise Science and Business Management, combining expertise in movement, leadership and growth.

He is the Founder of AFL Max, an innovative organisation delivering school programs that build confidence, resilience and teamwork through physical activity. AFL Max also partners nationally with Coles to promote health and wellbeing literacy.

A former AFL premiership player with Geelong, James played 104 AFL games after over 200 in the VFL. He later coached at Adelaide and worked at the AFL before founding AFL Max.

Ryan Murdock is an experienced and passionate educator specialising in VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies and senior Health and Physical Education. He has been a VCAA assessor for the past six years, marking VCE examinations. Ryan has held a range of leadership roles, including his current position as Head of Sport, as well as previous roles in student wellbeing coordination. His teaching is driven by a strong commitment to holistic wellbeing, engaging learning experiences and creating meaningful real-world opportunities that support students to thrive.

Lucy has more than 30 years of experience in secondary education and specialises in Physical Education, VET and Vocational Major. At Highview Christian College she has held leadership roles including Head of Physical Education, VET Coordinator and Head of Senior Pathways. Lucy contributes extensively to VCAA and Active Education Australia through exam writing, reviewing and study panels. She also supports future teachers as a La Trobe University marker and tutor, and holds multiple training qualifications and First Aid Trainer certification.

Mick Donehue is the National Services Manager at Alcohol, Drug & Mental Health Education Specialists (AD+MH), where he has worked for over 10 years. A passionate mental health advocate, Mick draws on lived experience with depression and alcohol abuse, as well as the impact of mental illness within his family, to drive open and honest conversations.

He has presented across Australia and New Zealand, sharing practical strategies around coping, connection and help-seeking. Mick also runs Journey Apparel, a clothing label promoting mental health awareness, and is a musician who has performed alongside international artists.