About

Brett Hooper

Chair

Brett serves on the Better Hearing Australia board to help the organisation grow and better serve the community. He is committed to supporting BHA’s efforts in providing education and support for individuals with hearing impairments, their families, friends, and colleagues.

As someone with a hearing impairment, Brett offers firsthand knowledge and experience to assist others in similar situations. His work involves communicating with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including those with hearing disabilities, which aligns with BHA’s mission to understand and address the issues faced by the Deaf and hard of hearing community, offering relevant services into the future.

Michael Blewer

Treasurer

Michael joined Better Hearing Australia’s board to join a passionate group of individuals dedicated to improving the lives of people with hearing impairments. Having personally witnessed the impact of hearing loss within his family; Michael understands its debilitating effects.

He has also seen the transformative power of receiving hearing aids and training provided by genuinely caring professionals. Michael believes he can significantly contribute to the operational and strategic management of BHA and is honoured to serve on the board of directors.

Samantha Scandlyn

Secretary

Samantha brings over 20 years’ experience in procurement, governance, and community-focused project delivery across government and infrastructure. Based in Townsville, she joined the board at the end of 2024, motivated by a strong interest in inclusion and supporting people with hearing loss.

Samantha recently completed a Master of Business Administration (Leadership). Her professional work focuses on driving social and sustainable outcomes, particularly in regional and remote communities.

As a proud veteran, she brings a practical, values-based approach to her role on the Board.

Dr Mansoureh Nickbakht

Board Member 

Mansoureh is committed to improving hearing health outcomes in the community. She works to raise awareness of hearing loss and available services, particularly among culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, to help more people access the support they need.

With several years of experience as a hearing care professional and researcher, Mansoureh collaborates with healthcare providers to enhance the quality and cultural responsiveness of hearing services. Through her research at The University of Queensland and partnerships with community organisations, she supports inclusive, family-centred care that empowers individuals and families living with hearing difficulties.

Jared Norris

Board Member

Jared Norris is a seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience guiding large technology and operational teams toward innovative, customer-focused, and commercially sustainable outcomes. He brings a deep strategic perspective and a versatile approach to board governance from his work across diverse sectors, including public services, financial institutions, and consultancy.

Since joining Better Hearing Australia in 2017, Jared has actively supported the organization’s mission to enhance the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairment. He has driven strategic, governance and service initiatives that promote social and workplace inclusion and advanced progress toward financial sustainability, ensuring BHA’s long-term impact and success.

Oli Straker

Board Member

With family members who have hearing impairments, Oli deeply understands the impact on their lives and those around them, appreciating the invaluable assistance the organisation provides. As an investment consultant for not-for-profit organisations, Oli believes his professional expertise can significantly benefit Better Hearing Australia.

He remains committed to delivering results for donors, consumers, and eventual beneficiaries.

Tania Hagelberg

Board Member

Tania is dedicated to helping Better Hearing Australia transition to a self-funded organisation and continue its growth. She aims to support BHA in providing crucial information, education, and support for people with hearing impairments, their families, friends, and colleagues, as well as in raising funds. Tania also focuses on educating the public and organisations to meet the needs of people with hearing impairments.

As someone with a hearing impairment herself, she offers firsthand knowledge and experience to assist others in similar situations. Her work in the Queensland Government managing training and employment programs for people with disabilities helps BHA understand the emerging whole-of-life issues relating to people with disabilities, including those who are Deaf and hard of hearing, and to offer relevant services in the future.

Ross Hadfield

Board Member

Ross is an experienced technology and strategy executive with a strong background in digital transformation, governance, and organisational leadership. With a career spanning both public and private sectors, Ross brings deep expertise in delivering impactful, people-focused solutions through innovation and data-driven decision-making.

He is passionate about improving accessibility and community outcomes and is proud to support Better Hearing Australia’s mission to empower individuals with hearing loss..