Who's Listening

Jess Domigan has been involved in the Just Transitions Community workstream since the Future Search Conference in May 2022. Her background in the social sector and belief in community led principles drives her passion for the work of Connected Murihiku. Jess brings extensive operational experience in developing strategy and leadership initiatives, including through her current work as General Manager of Active Southland. One of her areas of focus will be on pulling together the resources and the abilities of those that already exist across the Southland motu.

Robyn Morris has over 20 years’ experience advocating within the Southland community, mainly in the Gore District, but has developed strong relationships with wider Southland stakeholders, as well as Regional and Central Government representatives. As Manager of the Community Networking Trust, and as an instrumental player in the Hokonui Huanui project and other Eastern Southland collaborative initiatives, she will bring her leadership style of guidance and working alongside, to support the mahi of Connected Murihiku.  

Sarah has a varied career background. She was on the Fiordland Community Board for 9 years, and chair for 4 of these, until being elected to Southland District Council in October 2022. She has worked in local government, in the corporate world, and runs her own business and brings her skills in strategic leadership, culture change and customer service to the Connected Murihiku role. Also known for being able to connect people, resources and initiatives, she has also been involved in the initial Just Transitions Community workstream and the Beyond 2025 project, and is looking forward to supporting the group’s mahi.

Stacy Hughes comes from an educational background and has an active understanding of different perspectives from those unheard voices in the community. He is passionate about supporting Māori and Maata Waka engagement and mana enhancing practices within decision making. Stacy is outcome-focussed and believes in community empowerment, especially amongst rangatahi. Through his work at Te Rourou One Aotearoa Foundation, Stacy has been involved in strategy implementation and is looking forward to building connections to support the success of the project.

Paul McPhail is a first term Gore District Councillor. He has been actively involved in the local community for over 30 years.  This has included serving on a school board of trustees, chairman of Gore Repertory Society, a member of the Gore Musical Theatre Operational Committee and Gore Community Centre Committee.  He has a strong background in the retail market industry and participated in the Go Retail Committee. Paul is currently manager of SBS St James Theatre.   Paul is looking forward to supporting the Connected Murihiku initiative.

Steve Broad is in his first term as an Invercargill City Councillor. 

He is a born and bred Southlander, growing up on a sheep farm in rural Southland, and spent several years living and working in Auckland and Christchurch before returning home in 2021.

He is a former school teacher, spent several years leading teams in the corporate sector, and is currently the More FM Breakfast announcer here in Southland. 

He is excited about bringing his experience and love for our community to the Connected Murihiku joint committee!