Meet The Team - Inner Wheel Australia

Inner Wheel Australia’s Committee is made up of dedicated members from across Australia, elected to represent and lead our organization.

These passionate women believe wholeheartedly in the values of Inner Wheel and are committed to making a positive impact through their roles.

Taking on these responsibilities offers them an amazing opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and develop valuable skills, including communication, leadership, creativity, and practical abilities like business management, technology, and financial oversight. These skills not only benefit Inner Wheel but also provide lifelong growth and development.

The friendships they build and the personal growth they experience are invaluable, making their journey with Inner Wheel fulfilling and rewarding. They’re proud to contribute their time and talents to continue the legacy of Inner Wheel Australia.

Inner Wheel Australia

Executive Committee

Clare Swaan

President

Club
Norwest IW club (District A53)

Interests

My interests include travel, bushwalks, scrapbooking, catching up with friends and of course, my family – 3 married daughters and their beautiful children. Nick and I have 6 grandchildren – 3 boys and 3 girls, aged from 3 to 13.

Background

I was introduced to Inner Wheel by a friend and was immediately impressed with the National Project – Cord Blood Research. I have found the world of Inner Wheel to be one of friendship, fun and fundraising which is both uplifting and fulfilling.

What does IW mean to you?

I was introduced to Inner Wheel by a friend and was immediately impressed with the National Project – Cord Blood Research. I have found the world of Inner Wheel to be one of friendship, fun and fundraising which is both uplifting and fulfilling.

Yvonne Romp

Vice President

Club
Warragul IW club (District A62)

Interests

My family is my main interest with 9 grandchildren & 7 about to be 8 great grandchildren. I also love spending time with my husband Clive, enjoy reading and sewing, and I always look forward to catching up with friends over coffee or dinner.

Background

The middle child of five girls. After I married I spent time at home when my children were young. My career commenced as a part time receptionist and ended as a fulltime Administration and Finance Manager. Eventually my husband Clive and I purchased a small motel in Bairnsdale, where I first joined Inner Wheel.

What does IW mean to you?

Since joining the Inner Wheel Club in Bairnsdale in 2007, IW has become one of the main focuses of my life. I am passionate about everything IW, the lifelong friendships, the work we do raising funds to help wherever we can and the positive impact we can make as volunteers.

Sharon Lawrence

Secretary

Club: IWC Albany (District A40)

Interests

Caring for my horses, sheep, dogs and chickens, reading, travelling to new destinations, technology, people and having fun.

Background

I arrived in Australia over 40 years ago with my then husband and two sons. Since then, I’ve built a blended family, including two more children and ten grandchildren. My career in Human Resources focused on not-for-profits. After retiring to a rural area, a friend introduced me to Inner Wheel. Within a year, I became Club Secretary—beginning a journey filled with service, friendship, learning, and joy at club, district, and IWA levels.

What does IW mean to you?

Aligning with inspiring women of Inner Wheel has been a profound life highlight, offering growth, enrichment, and meaningful social connections—an opportunity to embrace and truly enjoy.

Jenni Bennett

Treasurer

Club: IWC Trinity After Dark

Interests
Family life, all things crafty and company of friends. Reading nice murder mysteries – is that a real thing?

Background
I grew up on a farm in South Australia. I studied commercial subjects at school and for most of my working life I worked in banking and finance. For the past 46 years I have lived in Queensland.

What does IW mean to you?
Great opportunities to make friends across the Globe. Sharing of knowledge and experiences. Helping and being helped to reach our full potential. Challenging!

Julie Brzozowski

Immediate Past President & National Rep

Club: FNQ Tablelands

Interests
My family, looking after our cat, reading murder mysteries, AFL, sport, caravanning, travel and catching up with friends.

Background
One of 5 siblings. My dad was a school principal in Qld. I became a teacher then went on to do admin including bookkeeping and moved to Cairns 34 years ago where we ran a business for 28 years. Now retired.

What does IW mean to you?
Firstly it’s the friendships that are made as they last a lifetime. Then working together to improve the lives of others and to inspire women to achieve their potential.

Inner Wheel Australia

Council Members

Catherine Whitelaw

A40 Council Member

Club: Rockingham Kwinana Districts IWC

I joined Inner Wheel club of Melville in 2004 following recent retirement after near 30 years of nursing; starting in Kalgoorlie and 4 country hospitals before moving to Perth and spending many years in larger hospitals.

I involved myself in many events and attending 10 IWA conferences and 3 IIW conferences. This has given me a greater understanding of our fabulous organisation. Two years ago I transferred to IWC Rockingham Kwinana Districts.

Socially I have shared the past 27 years with my partner John Wilkinson, and his son Richard who has given us 4 grandchildren, now all adults.
Away from Inner Wheel, we belong to a Land Rover Owners club and explore many interesting locations around Western Australia.
I’m an avid reader and into many crafts of large quilt making and knitting to keep me busy.

Barbara Howells

A50 Council Member

Club: Dubbo IWC

My interests are volunteering, including National Trust, Church associated activities, Meals On Wheels, family, & visiting the elderly.

My hobbies are Cross Stitching, Reading & walking daily.I am a retired (10 yrs) Registered Nurse of fifty-six years working. I have worked in all facets of nursing. My husband of fifty-two years is a retired bank officer and we have three married daughters and seven grandchildren.

I am a retired (10 yrs) Registered Nurse of fifty-six years working. I have worked in all facets of nursing. My husband of fifty-two years is a retired bank officer and we have three married daughters and seven grandchildren.

Inner Wheel means everything to me in terms of Friendship & Service.

Leigh Smith

A53 Council Member

Club: Blacktown City IWC

I’m a member of a Show Society, putting on Horse Shows, Markers and the annual show, raising money to help children’s cancer such as Levi Project & Blood Cancers.

I have been a member of Inner Wheel Club of Blacktown City since October 2003, and have severed as president 3 times, treasurer, international officer & secretary and am the current secretary. Within the District I have been Chairman twice, Council Member, and Treasurer on 3 times.

Inner Wheel to means being able to make friends help the community and support Inner Wheel give to those people in the community and help raise awareness of the plight of other less fortunate than ourselves.

Christine Kent

A54 Council Member

Club: Corowa District

I was born in Melbourne, the second eldest of 4. I married Steve in 1973. We have 3 children and 3 grandchildren, and yes, we are still happily married.

We have lived in many places – Melbourne, Underbool (in the Mallee), Corowa and Sydney. We retired and moved back to Corowa in 2018 where I was introduced to Inner Wheel.

Joining Inner Wheel has enabled me to do what I love most, meet and socialise with lots of inspiring, friendly and engaging people. Its also allowed me to be more involved in community events and fundraising activities. Apart from the people side of things I’m a keen caravanner, bike rider and walker.

Ann Mason

A55 Council Member

Club: Inverell IWC

Outside of Inner Wheel, I enjoy sewing with friends weekly, photography with a Canon group monthly, and I’m actively involved in the CWA and our church’s Mothers’ Union.

I grew up in Sydney and moved to Inverell in 1993, where I met my husband through Scouting. With a background in management and counselling, I worked with individuals and families until retiring in 2023. I joined Inner Wheel in 2003, serving in many Club roles and as District Chairman. I value friendship, service, and international understanding, and am proud of our support for Cord Blood research and women’s health in Nepal. I am grateful that we support Cord Blood, as a friend’s little girl is a recipient.

Inner Wheel and especially my year as District Chairman, has given me much more confidence and allowed me to meet many more “friends” and widened my experiences.

Jan Tozer

A60 Council Member

Club: Wendouree IWC

I have an interest in in travel, theatre, volunteer in Church groups which help the less fortunate. My family and friends are important to me. I enjoy meeting people, and socialising. Being a member of the Inner Wheel Organisation is part of my life.

I have been a member of Inner Wheel for 40 years, enjoyed all of it. Having held positions as Club Secretary and many times President.

District positions include Historian, Editor, Chairman and Council Member.

Inner Wheel Friendships are wonderful not only from own Club but other Clubs, District, Nationally and Internationally.

I am passionate about our National Project for Cord Blood Researchers and also our District Project. Inner Wheel offers me the opportunity to widen local community contact.

Filomena Harrington

A61 Council Member

Club: Whorouly IWC

My interests are cooking, reading, sewing, gardening and spending time with family and friends and being a member of Inner Wheel.

After a banking and finance career. I am enjoying retirement. I joined Inner Wheel Whorouly 21^st July 2016. I have had various roles within the club.

It has been an honour to serve as A61 District Chairman for the past year. This gave me the opportunity to visit all the clubs in the district and to meet members and to learn more about Inner Wheel. I am thankful for the opportunity to meet and work alongside so many inspirational women.

Erica Peck

A62 Council Member

Club: Narre Warren IWC

I am passionate about the value of Inner Wheel, to both ourselves, plus our local and international community. The Objects of Inner Wheel echo the current research completed on wellbeing and heart health. Wellbeing is multidimensional and something we all need to focus on, so we can be at our best.

Inner Wheel is an amazing organisation that gives us the opportunity to develop our own potential and experience a sense of purpose while experiencing positive relationships with all those amazing women around us.

Cathie Rumbelow

A70 Council Member

Club: North East Sunset IWC

I enjoy reading, walking, live music and theatre and knitting.

I work casually as a physiotherapist in a rehabilitation hospital and volunteer with Meals on Wheels. A Charter member of the Inner Wheel Club of North East Sunset, I’ve held various club roles including President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Historian. At District level, I served as Editor twice and District Chairman in 2023/2024 and 2024/2025. Inner Wheel allows me to give back to the community, enjoy meaningful friendships—many of whom I introduced to the club—and support important causes such as Cord Blood Research, which I’m especially proud of. Inner Wheel continues to be a significant and rewarding part of my life.

Chris Jarvis

A76 Council Member

Club: Trinity After Dark IWC

Family is very important to me. I enjoy cruising, reading, puzzles, crafts, staying active, and social groups like Inner Wheel. I also support Parkinson’s awareness and remain community-minded.

Born in mid-north South Australia in 1951, I trained as a Registered Nurse and Midwife, later working 30 years in Operating Theatres in Murray Bridge. Married in 1973, we farmed for 27 years and raised three children. After my husband’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, we moved to Cairns. I retired from nursing to care for him and now volunteer as Coordinator of the Cairns Parkinson Support Group. I’m active in Inner Wheel and Rotary.

I value Inner Wheel for its friendship, fun, and support. Since joining in 1985, I’ve enjoyed charity work and leadership roles, now serving as District Chair in 2024/25

Leeanne Ballinger

A77 Council Member

Club: Sunshine Coast IWC

I cherish family and friends above all, enjoy caravanning across Australia, live theatre, musicals, international travel and family sporting activities.

Born in Texas, Qld, I built a fulfilling nursing career, later serving as Director of Nursing in both the public and non-for-profit sectors, specialising in Quality Assessment and Standards.

Now retired, I enjoy life with my husband, Phil, and is am proud mum to sons Damien and Jason, and a devoted mother-in-law and grandma to my wonderful family.

Committed to Inner Wheel’s values, I find joy in the friendship and sense of belonging while striving to make a meaningful difference to those in need.

Inner Wheel Australia

Appointed Officers

Name Sue De Muelenaere

Role National Editor (Elected Position)

District: A77 Club: Brisbane West

Interests: Reading, swimming, musicals and theatre shows, and a passion for jigsaw puzzles.

Background:I married Johan in 2001, gaining eight grandchildren and later a beautiful great-granddaughter. We moved from South Africa to Australia in 2003 and now enjoy life in a Retirement Village. As a registered nurse and educator with over 40 years of national and international experience, I hold a Bachelor’s and Honours degree in Nursing Science, plus diplomas in Midwifery, Psychiatric, Community, and Intensive Care Nursing, as well as Nursing Administration and Education, specializing in Cardiology and Cardio-thoracic care.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

Inner Wheel helped me connect with others in a new country, leading to lasting friendships and a fulfilling life. It gave me purpose through meaningful community and international work. Without Inner Wheel and the support of its members, my adjustment to life in Australia would have been far more difficult.

Name Karen Winters

Role Constitution Chairman

District: A77 Club: Brisbane North

Like many, our family is the most important part of our lives. In my spare time I like to read, stitch, attend live theatre, make memories with family, and share time with friends.

I was born in Victoria but have lived in Queensland since my teenage years. I have always worked in an office environment, having worked in two schools, a church and our own company for some years.

My membership enables me to meet interesting women who have a heart for service. Lifelong friendships throughout the world are made and we make a difference while having fun and supporting each other in our life’s journey.

Name Pauline Barratt

Role Badge Officer

District:A61 Club:Wandin

Interests: Reading, Watching Tennis and Motor Sport. Keeping myself fit.

Background: Born and brought up in Wales. Trained as a nurse specialising in Accident & Emergency, later in Anaesthetics. I came to Australia in 1976, and I am a naturalised Aussie. Married with 2 children and 4 grandchildren.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

Friendship, also it keeps my brain active, I have been an active member of all levels of Inner Wheel. What is most important, and I enjoy, is the work we do for Cord Blood Research.

Name Suze Rogashoff

Role Directory Editor

District: A54 Club: Corowa District

Interests: Gardening, rowing, travelling and figuring out what I am going to do in my retirement (I retired four years ago!)

Background: I grew up in Tasmania and have 2 siblings. In the early 80’s I joined the Army and after 10 years I resigned and then started a career in the public service. I moved around quite a bit but spent the last 20 years of my working life in Canberra.

My partner Dermot and I moved to North East Victoria in 2021 and are renovating our home and establishing a garden.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

In 2021 I moved to the small country town of Wahgunyah and my aunt introduced me to Inner Wheel. I joined the Corowa District Club and have met so many amazing women, made lifelong friends, and make a difference in my community.

Inner Wheel provided me the platform to do this, and in return I have used my skills and experience in a number of roles in my Club, District and Nationally.

Name Eluned Clark

Role National Project Coordinator

District: A40 Club: Mandurah

Interests: Reading, walking my dogs, exploring new places, cheering on my grandchildren playing hockey, going to watch Freo Dockers with my son ( I am a WC Eagles supporter), watching any sport on TV except Golf.

Background: Born in the UK, moved to PNG in 1975 with VSO, met Australian and married in PNG. Moved to Australia, while husband was at UNI had three boys. Returned to work in country towns, rural areas, and the desert first as a teacher then eventually finishing up as an Executive principal.

Charter member of IWC of Mandurah holding many club and District positions. Love finances and making sure the books are accurate.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

I am a passionate member of my local club and a strong supporter of our District. I enjoy the friendship and service opportunities membership gives me.

Name Alwyn Williams

Role Media Administrator

District: A62 Club: Pakenham

Interests: I enjoy reading, water aerobics, dressmaking, knitting, attending the ballet and travel. We have travelled widely in our caravan throughout Australia and since our youngest son moved to the Netherlands 17 years ago, we have had a number of overseas trips, particularly to Europe.

Background: Having trained as a primary school teacher I was privileged to have a brief career before we had our three children, had time at home whilst they were young but was able to return to full time work mostly in the lower primary area. I was Deputy Head of the Junior School until my retirement.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

Membership of Inner Wheel has given me many opportunities: to make long standing friendships locally, interstate and overseas, to make a worthwhile contribution to the community and the platform to learn new skills and accept challenges. (Hello IWA Website!)

Name Wendy Bennet

Role Merchansise Officer

District: A55 Club: Tamworth

Interests: Naturally Inner Wheel! My position of Merchandise Officer has been a joy where I can express myself through purchasing gifts displaying them for members enjoyment. Love Cooking for guests and making them feel welcome into our home. Sourcing Decorations for functions, doing craft, Gardening and China Painting for many years.

Background: I have always worked for charity, school P & C, helping others gives me great pleasure. We have 2 children and 4 grandchildren whom we absolutely adore, unfortunately they live in Melbourne and Pottsville on the North Coast. Noel and I owned The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre in Tamworth for many years. This gave me retail experience, joy of purchasing useful exciting gifts for visitors to purchase. Being open 7 days a week it was a big part of our lives, so I did not join Inner Wheel until 2012, after we sold the business. Tamworth being Country Music Capital of Australia we were very involved in the music industry.

Noel has been in Rotary 48 years, though that time I have supported him and worked tirelessly raising money for charities, helping to organise Conferences and the likes, supporting his Rotary Club of Tamworth West. I was honoured to be made a Paul Harris Fellow in 1987.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

The Objects of Inner Wheel gives me the true meaning to my life. Friendship, supporting each other, helping thecommunity. Being on an executive of a Club really gives you the full meaning of what our organisation is about and takes up a lot of time in my life. So, ladies take that step forward and become part of an Executive – you will be rewarded tenfold.

Name Lorraine Hyde

Role Public Officer

Interests: Other than Inner Wheel- amily & friends, knitting, reading, walking and I love looking after my granddaughter’s Cavoodle, Milo.

Background: After moving from the Sydney area we moved to Wyong. Before long I was invited to an Inner Wheel meeting. A few months later, at the Club meeting in August 1976 I was inducted into Inner Wheel. This was the beginning of nearly 49 years of friendship with great ladies. I was asked to take on the position of Club Correspondent at the following February meeting. From that day on I have held many positions in the club and A52 district. This led to becoming IWA Treasurer in 2002, followed by becoming IWA President in 2009 and then IIW Board Director in 2011.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

Inner Wheel gives me a purpose and opportunity to help others. I cannot image life without Inner Wheel. Having made so many friends over the years and being
able to catch up at Conferences and Changeovers is an absolute joy. My Inner
Wheel friends are like another family.

Name Karen McKenzie

Role IWA Returning Officer

District: A61 Club: Williamstown

Interests: Reading, baking, going to the theatre.

Background: I was born in Perth and raised in rural WA. I lived in various places in Australia due to marrying a soldier. We have two children and three grandies. I have been involved in many community groups and enjoy being able to help others.

What does Inner Wheel mean to you?

IW means I have the ability to help others less fortunate than myself. It means I have friends for life across Australia.