WHO WE ARE

Melissa joined WAFIC following 10 years as Executive Director at Forest Industries Federation (WA) where she oversaw the industry’s restructure following the protection of old growth forests and a period in private consultancy.

Melissa brings with her an extensive background in resource management, sustainable development, primary industries and a passion for renewable and sustainable industries.

Her forestry experience follows a similar trajectory to commercial fishing, where she has developed programs to support issues, including sectoral closures, compensation, resource security and membership engagement.

Craig joins WAFIC’s communication unit after several years with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, where he managed communications for projects including the shark response strategy, the Sea Sense campaign and Mid West Aquaculture Development Zone.

Angela boasts a 20-year track record of providing strategic and operational support to C-suite executives, along with an ability to optimise office efficiency, anticipate needs and drive organisational success.

In her role as Executive Assistant, Angela provides a broad range of support for the WAFIC team, with a particular focus on the Chief Executive Officer and the Board.

Rachel brings creative digital strategy and content creation to WAFIC. An experienced Art Director and Content Creator with a background in creative advertising, she’s worked for the biggest agency’s and production houses in Perth. In her free time she exhibits digital artwork at festivals and goes scuba diving and camping with her dog.

Rob joined WAFIC in May 2026 following submission of his PhD at the University of Western Australia. His research looked at how fisheries can be managed more sustainably by better connecting fishers’ knowledge, scientific research, and historical context with government policy. This work involved engagement with professional fishers and researchers across a range of Western Australian fisheries, and historical analysis of Perth recreational fisheries documenting 100 years of growth. Rob’s research experience has given him a deep understanding of fisheries science and management, and the governance challenges facing the fishing industry.