Our team

Stephanie Naunton

Chief Executive Officer

Stephanie is a true North Queensland local having lived and worked across the region most of her life. Stephanie’s background includes leading other not-for-profit organisations as well as advisory roles in State and Federal governments.

Stephanie has her Bachelors in Law, post-graduate diploma in Legal Practice and her Masters in Politics and Policy.

In addition to her role at Brighter Lives, Stephanie has dedicated her time to work on several boards including Director at Stadiums Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Mental Health, Mercy St Patrick’s College, Advisory Board Member at Deakin University. 

Stephanie is thrilled to use her skills and experience towards making a difference in healthcare outcomes for all North Queenslanders.

Narelle Burns

Volunteer Program Manager

Narelle has over 35 years’ experience working in North Queensland. For the past 17 years she has worked in various positions in the tourism industry, mainly managing Visitor Information Centres. Prior to that, Narelle lived and worked on cattle properties in the Gulf and North-West Queensland. Narelle enjoys working with volunteers and is thrilled to be working as the Volunteer Program Manager for Brighter Lives.

Kim Steele

Fundraising and Communication Officer

Kim is an experienced marketing and communication professional with more than 15 years of experience. 

Proudly a Townsville-born and bred local, Kim is excited to be using her skills to help brighten the lives of patients and staff in north Queensland! 

Rebecca Alferez

Grants and Gifts Officer

Rebecca, or Bec as she prefers, has been committed to making a difference in Northern Queensland through her work in communications, stakeholder engagement, regional development, and the Arts for the last 25 years.

She is a passionate North Queensland and is excited to use her skills and experience to help create Brighter healthcare outcomes for all communities across our region.

Annmarie Gerardis

Administration Assistant

Annmarie is our friendly Administration Assistant. She is here to help with any enquiry and will be your first point of call when you contact Brighter Lives! Annmarie has many years of experience in administration, most recently working in real estate administration in Townsville. She is excited to use her skills and knowledge in the not-for-profit sector. 

Bandi Bear

Helper (mascot)

Bandi Bear, our adorable cuddly mascot, brings joy to patients, staff and the community with his happy smile and friendly manner. He enjoys visiting patients in wards, getting out and about at events, fishing, long walks on the beach and eating peanut butter and honey sandwiches.