Karin Grima, Chairperson

Born in Geraldton and raised on a farm east of Mullewa, Karin lived in Victoria for many years before returning to Western Australia in 2021. She is currently employed in a Senior Regional Development role with the Mid West Development Commission.

Karin’s work history includes local government (economic development and tourism), private industry, not-for-profit sector, and education; with experience gained in regional advocacy, business development, project management and community recovery following the 2009 bushfires in Victoria.

Karin believes that being a member of a community requires commitment to giving back to that community, and as the Chair of Desert Blue Connect Board, she looks forward to leading the Board as it moves to the implementation phase of the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan to improve the health and wellbeing of women and families across the Mid West region.

When not at work, you’ll find her at the beach, walking, bike riding, volunteering with the Champion Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, and spending time with her partner, family and friends.

Melissa Myers, Vice Chairperson

Geraldton born and raised mother of three, Melissa is a passionate advocate who has dedicated her professional years around supporting community members and sector services throughout the Midwest and making sure their voices are heard at a local and state level.

Melissa is currently the Leader of Wellbeing and Practice at one of our local high-schools, where she is supporting disengaged young people through a needs-based approach, alongside youth workers and education staff on campus.

Melissa has an extensive work history in Government, NGO and Community sector that expands over 26 years and was previously Chairperson of the Midwest Youth Sector Interagency Meetings (MYSIM), which had over 70 members registered, an Emergency Medical Assistant for St John Ambulance Midwest and a member of the Midwest Leaders Network.


Travis Bate, Treasurer

Principal at RSM


Sandra Carr, Board Member

Sandra Carr MLC, Member for Agricultural Region.


Stephanie Essex, Board Member


Lana Gill, Board Member


Anne Pekaar, Board Member


Angie West, Board Member

Born and raised in Shark Bay and now married to a Geraldton local, Angie is a nature play advocate and children’s yoga teacher.

Her goal is to see more children in the outdoors and experiencing healthy opportunities for risk-taking through play.

With over 20 years of experience in the Early Childhood sector – she is passionate and motivated to make a difference in how parents and educators view and acknowledge environments where children can grow to be healthy, happy and resilient.

In 2013 she Co-founded Kids Hub Training & Consultancy and now provide support and mentoring to Early Childhood and School services striving for excellence under the national quality standards. Kids Hub also operate’s two accredited & licensed Outside School Hours Centre in Geraldton.

During her down time, you will find Angie at the beach, fishing and stand up paddle boarding.