Our brilliant team of dedicated people provide a diverse range of skills and qualifications that contribute to the design and delivery of projects, events and services.  Collaborating with local communities, as well as industry groups and businesses both large and small, fostering ideas to actively provide successful outcomes for taking care of people and place….. This is what drives our hard-working team.

Meet the Team

Michelle McRae | Meet the Team | Capricornia Catchments

Michelle McRae President/Chair

Michelle has been actively involved with the Capricornia Catchments (and formerly Fitzroy River & Coastal Catchments) Committee since its inception in 2002 and currently holds the position of President.   As well as juggling a young family and work, she willingly volunteers substantial hours to being involved with the organisation. With over 25 years’ experience in the Landcare movement and industrial development (mining and power generation), Michelle is able to strengthen the organisation’s planning and decision making capacity through her diversity of skills and practical experiences.

 

Phena Ballantyne  | Meet the Team | Capricornia Catchments

Phena Ballantyne Project Officer

Phena Ballantyne is passionate about helping people, building stronger communities, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. With a background in teaching, health and nutrition, she brings a unique combination of education, communication and community engagement to the Capricornia Catchments team.
As a qualified teacher and sports nutritionist, Phena has spent many years empowering people to make positive, sustainable changes through education and practical support. She believes that when people are equipped with knowledge and confidence, they can make a real difference—not only for themselves, but for their families, communities and the environment.
Throughout her career, Phena has worked extensively with children, families, schools, sporting organisations and community groups, developing programs that encourage learning, wellbeing and participation. She enjoys bringing people together, creating meaningful connections and inspiring others to get involved in projects that have a lasting impact.
At Capricornia Catchments, Phena is proud to be part of a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing the natural environment while supporting the communities that call Central Queensland home. She is passionate about environmental education, community collaboration and helping people understand the important role they play in caring for our landscapes, waterways and wildlife for future generations.
Outside of work, Phena enjoys spending time with her family, keeping active, exploring the outdoors and supporting local sporting clubs. She has a particular interest in health, nutrition, youth development and helping people reach their full potential. Whether she’s working with community members, volunteers or colleagues, Phena brings energy, compassion and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.
Mitch Holland | Meet the Team | Capricornia Catchments

Mitch Holland Project Officer

Mitch originally started out on the 2023 traineeship and has progressed to now lead our newest trainees. Mitch is well known for his environmental assistance in the region and has a great passion for it.  Previously Mitch has been Raven Bushcare Pty Ltd – Co-Director, a member of the Capricorn Conservation Council. His personal hobbies include but not limited to permaculture, conservation landscape and ecosystem restoration.

Miri Wardlaw | Meet the Team | Capricornia Catchments

Miri Wardlaw Administrator

Miri brings a strong background in administration and business support, with a passion for keeping organisations running smoothly behind the scenes. She enjoys creating efficient systems, supporting her team and ensuring the day-to-day operations of Capricornia Catchments are well organised and responsive to the needs of the community.

With experience across a range of administrative roles, Miri has developed strong skills in organisation, communication and customer service. She values building positive relationships and takes pride in providing friendly, reliable support to colleagues, members and stakeholders.

Community involvement is important to Miri, and she enjoys contributing to organisations that make a positive difference. She is proud to be part of Capricornia Catchments, supporting projects that protect and enhance Central Queensland’s natural environment while fostering strong connections within the community.

Outside of work, Miri enjoys spending time with her family, supporting local sporting clubs and making the most of the outdoors. She believes that strong communities are built through collaboration, and she is committed to playing her part in supporting the organisation’s vision and the people it serves.

Skilling Queensland Trainees

March 2025 Trainees | Skilling Queensland Trainees | Capricornia Catchments

March 2025 Trainees

Ashanti, Jack, Tiffany, Biankah, Andrew, Jaryd, Ben, Shikara, Amanda, Abiegail, Vida & Dylan. (Not Pictures Isabella and Samuel)

2024 Trainees | Skilling Queensland Trainees | Capricornia Catchments

2024 Trainees

Jessie, Jaymie, Lani, Cliff, Brady, Marley, Daniel, Rosie, Tai & Seanna (not pictured)

 

2026 Trainees  | Skilling Queensland Trainees | Capricornia Catchments

2026 Trainees

2026 Trainees | Skilling Queensland Trainees | Capricornia Catchments

2026 Trainees

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