Susanne Tepe

Chair

PhD, MBA, MOS

Dr. Susanne Tepe is Chair of JoCare—Caring for Neighbours, Inc. After retirement from various academic and industry roles in scientific areas, she has committed to volunteer work. In addition to JoCare, she contributes to Emergency Relief with Catholic Care Victoria Tasmania, and St Vincent de Paul. She volunteers with the Pastoral Care team at Cabrini Health Malvern and is an active grandparent. She lives with her husband, Roger in Malvern East, Victoria and is seriously committed to having coffee with friends, neighbours, associates, strangers, anyone.

John G Davies

Secretary

AOM

John has been involved in JoCare since the beginning in July 2010, when he wrote to Fr Laurie McNamara proposing its establishment. This led to the employment of Kerri Anne Brussen as Volunteer Coordinator and the long task of establishing JoCare’s operating proceedings, training manuals and recruitment processes. JoCare was originally funded entirely by St Joseph’s Parish, Cabrini Health, Stonnington Council and donations; It obtained additional funding under the Federal Government’s Community Visitors Scheme (CVS which was renamed as ACVVS) in 2018. His role has been on the Executive Committee and he has acted as Secretary and Public Officer since JoCare became incorporated in 2020.

Mons. Stuart Hall

Member

–

Monsignor Stuart Hall joined the JoCare Committee of Management in 2022 as the Parish Priest of St Jospeh’s Malvern, and since October 2024 as the Dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral East Melbourne. Monsignor Stuart spent 22 years as a full time Chaplain in the Royal Australian Navy with his last appointment as the Director General of Navy Chaplaincy, the rank of Principal Chaplain (Commodore) before transferring to the Reserve Navy. He as an active interest in social outreach organisations that include St Vincent De Paul and St Mary’s House of Welcome, and various Age Care and Hospital agencies.

William J Martin

Member

K.C

William (Bill) Martin K.C. is a retired senior barrister who specialized in Commercial Law. Before retiring, Bill also volunteered in India and Samoa. Bill is a long term East Malvern resident and is married with 3 adult children. Bill is concerned for social justice for all, including the elderly. He enjoys, swimming, cycling, tennis and camping.

Jenny Nicholson

Member

–

Leanne Ryan

Program Leader

–

Growing up in a family centred on service, Leanne developed a deep belief in the power of compassion and community. With a background in management and HR in medical settings, She saw firsthand how vital connection is, especially for those experiencing loneliness and isolation.

As Program Leader at JoCare, She is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships that restore a sense of belonging. Outside of work, Leanne is a busy wife and mum of two, with life full of sports, playdates and school activities!