The organisation thanks Guy Boyce and Dane O’Callaghan, who conclude their service after guiding Barking Gecko Arts through an important chapter, including a successful merger that helped shape the organisation it is today.
Guy Boyce served for six years with dedication and care as Company Secretary and Chair of the Governance Committee, providing wise advice, strong governance expertise, and a genuine passion for the arts.
Dane O’Callaghan played a key role in repositioning AWESOME Arts and managing the merger, ensuring lasting benefits for children and young people across Western Australia. His steady leadership was crucial during this transitional period.
On behalf of everyone at Barking Gecko Arts, we thank Guy and Dane for their service, dedication, and belief in the power of creativity in the lives of children and young people. We wish them all the best for what’s ahead.
Chair Tony Chong leads the Board into 2026 alongside Deputy Chair David Templeman. The Board includes returning Directors Kaylene Gulich, Andries Weidemann, Kamal Thurairajah, and new Directors Vivien Wong, Chris Turner, Janis Carren, Sam Lynch, and Francesca Catalano, offering strong continuity and purpose.
Barking Gecko Arts Chair Tony Chong said the strength of the 2026 Board lies not only in the calibre of its members, but also in the diversity of perspectives they bring.
“Barking Gecko Arts aims to enrich the lives of children, young people, and families through creativity, imagination, and connection. This Board unites individuals with extensive expertise in culture, business, public life, and community impact. I am pleased to welcome both our returning and new Directors as we continue to expand the organisation’s reach, relevance, and contribution to Western Australia.”
Tony Chong brings legal, commercial, and strategic expertise, with particular strengths in philanthropy, diversity, and Australia-Asia relations. He is Managing Partner at Squire Patton Boggs and President of the WA Chinese Chamber of Commerce.
David Templeman has decades of leadership experience in public life, the arts, education, and government. A former WA Minister for Culture and the Arts, he is a committed community advocate and Patron of the organisation.
Kaylene Gulich PSM is the CEO of the Western Australian Treasury Corporation, providing financial oversight, policy guidance, and governance expertise to the Board.
Andries Weidemann is a choreographer, educator, and researcher with extensive sector knowledge in dance, performance, and safe practice. He has been teaching at WAAPA since 2009 and has collaborated with major arts organisations worldwide.
Kamal Thurairajah contributes perspectives from science, spirituality, the arts, and community practice, supporting the organisation’s focus on inclusion.
Janis Carren has leadership experience in entertainment, tourism, sport, and cultural infrastructure, having served as CEO of both VenuesWest and the Arts and Culture Trust.
Sam Lynch is experienced in audience development, marketing, and cultural sector leadership, with executive roles at CircuitWest and major WA organisations.
Francesca Catalano provides strategic development experience and expertise in audience engagement, impact analysis, and strategy, gained through roles at Perth Zoo, Nous Group, and Culture Counts.
Vivien Wong has expertise in HSE, change management, risk, governance, and strategy, and is an advocate for flexible work and inclusion.
Chris Turner brings expertise in digital transformation, strategic business direction and operational improvement, further enriching the Board’s capability.
In 2026, the Board will guide Barking Gecko Arts to expand access, deepen community impact, support WA creative excellence, and build a sustainable future.
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