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.

Laura joined WAFIC in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science from UWA (Environmental Management and Marine and Coastal Management) and over a decade of fishing industry experience. Her background at DPIRD spans policy, strategy, project management, biosecurity, compliance, and serving as a Fisheries Management Officer. She also holds a commercial skipper’s ticket (Coxswains). 

Laura’s diverse roles have given her deep expertise in fisheries legislation, policy development, and natural resource management across commercial and recreational sectors.

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.