State Coordinators
VICTORIA
Lesley
Diagnosed with a large prolactinoma in 2005, Lesley’s journey has included multiple surgeries, radiotherapy, and ongoing treatment for acromegaly and related conditions. Her experiences with frequent GP visits, intense symptoms, and the eventual diagnosis of her pituitary tumour have fuelled her dedication to raising awareness about pituitary conditions.
Lesley joined the APF to help others who, like her, might be navigating the complexities of these invisible conditions and to spread the word about the support networks available.
Carol
Carol’s journey with the APF is deeply personal. Her husband underwent emergency surgery in 2017 to remove a large pituitary tumour, resulting in Hypopituitarism.
As Carol navigates the challenges of supporting her husband, and managing his condition, she’s passionate about enhancing his quality of life through available resources.
Carol is excited to contribute to the APF community and share her personal experiences to support others facing similar challenges.
To get in touch with Lesley or Carol, simply email vic@pituitary.asn.au
NEW SOUTH WALES
Tim
Tim has been an active member and supporter of the APF since 2022. He is a trusted adviser in communications and stakeholder engagement with more than 15 years of experience.
He has worked in the offices of federal and state government ministers, government departments, the education sector, and for not-for-profit member-based organisations.
Tim holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing and Bachelor of Communications from UTS.
Sean
Originally from Ireland and now thriving in Sydney, Sean works with Qantas in the aviation sector and teaches piano on the side.
Diagnosed with Acromegaly in December 2023, Sean underwent successful surgery in January and is now enjoying normal IGF1 levels. Fun fact: Sean is a triplet!
To get in touch with Tim or Sean, simply email nsw@pituitary.asn.au
QUEENSLAND
Sarah
Sarah’s journey with the APF began when her daughter was diagnosed with acquired Panhypopituitarism in 2021. The initial shock of her diagnosis, and the subsequent search for information, led Sarah to us.
Inspired by this, Sarah now volunteers as a Social Coordinator, dedicated to connecting pituitary community members, raising awareness, and addressing the challenges of invisible illnesses.
With a Fine Arts background, and extensive experience in creative production and media, Sarah brings a unique blend of storytelling and logistics to her State Coordinator role.
Mia
Mia’s path to understanding the pituitary gland came when her son was diagnosed with Multiple Pituitary Hormone Disorder at age three. The overwhelming journey became more manageable with the support and connection found through the APF.
As one of Queensland’s Social Events Coordinators, Mia is passionate about fostering in-person connections and building a supportive community for families and individuals navigating similar challenges.
To get in touch with Sarah or Mia, simply email qld@pituitary.asn.au
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Mel
Mel’s journey with the APF began after her daughter was diagnosed with Congenital Hypopituitarism. Despite a challenging start, and weeks of uncertainty, her daughter is now 18 months old, thriving, and is full of joy.
Mel joined the APF to help others on similar journeys to connect and build a community, as she knows firsthand how isolating it can feel to navigate rare pituitary conditions.
Bianca
Based in Western Australia, Bianca works in Recruitment and HR and has a passion for travel. After being diagnosed with a pituitary condition, and finding invaluable support through the APF, she’s motivated to give back to the community that helped her.
Bianca is excited to use her experience and passion to support others facing similar challenges.
To get in touch with Mel or Bianca, simply email wa@pituitary.asn.au
TASMANIA
Hilary
Hilary lives in beautiful Bellerive with her husband and their two children.
Balancing her love for Tasmanian bushwalking, yoga, reading, and dumplings, Hilary has recently ventured into entrepreneurship with her own small business.
With over 20 years in government roles, Hilary is excited to connect with APF members and is looking forward to organising the Tassie social catch ups.
To get in touch with Hilary, simply email tas@pituitary.asn.au
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Rachel
Rachel is a single mother to three beautiful daughters. She has worked in the banking industry for the last 17 years, and she’s also an avid photographer.
Back in August 2021, Rachel was diagnosed with a Macroadenoma, a tumour on the pituitary gland, which needed immediate surgery. Her recovery has been long and challenging. To learn more about her condition, she joined a specialist pituitary group from overseas, which she’s found very valuable.
Rachel has been involved in many not-for-profit organisations over the years, however, the Australian Pituitary Foundation is a cause very close to her heart and one that she’s very passionate about.
To get in touch with Rachel, simply email sa@pituitary.asn.au