Meet the Team
The Otium Planning Group team, under the direction of industry leaders Kate Maddock, Dave Lanfear and Jason Leslie, focusses on quality advice and informed planning. Otium has a network of more than 24 staff, 6 offices and specialist sub-consultants in sport, recreation and leisure planning.

Kate Maddock
Managing Director and Founder

Jason Leslie

Dave Lanfear
Director

Jason Merrett
Director, New Zealand

Ben Bainbridge
Associate

Brad Billett
Associate

Bruce Mackay
Associate

Cameron Bechaz
Senior Consultant

Lauren Close
Senior Consultant

Kirstie Czarnecki
Senior Consultant

Mitch Jenkins
Senior Consultant

Aditi Karande
Senior Consultant

Malcolm Kuhn
Senior Consultant

Josie MacCartney
Senior Consultant

Wayne Stuart
Senior Consultant

Daniele Lapedota
Recreation Planner

Saee Patil
Recreation Planner

Thomas Woods
Recreation Planner

Amy Strong
Research Officer

Larissa Kleiss
Marketing & Communications

Suzi Culic
Accounts Manager

Nell Peters
Administration Manager

Martin Lambert
Senior Associate & Founding Director

David Mason
Senior Associate & Founding Director
Tony Butler (1985 – 2025) – Always a member of the Otium Planning Group team
Kate Maddock
Managing Director
“At Otium, we don’t just plan facilities—we shape the spaces where communities come alive. Every project starts with understanding what people really need, then building strategies that deliver lasting value.”
Meet Kate Maddock, Managing Director and Founder of Otium Planning Group
As Otium’s founding Managing Director, Kate Maddock has spent over two decades transforming how
communities experience sport and recreation. Her expertise spans strategic planning, master planning, and infrastructure development across Australia and New Zealand, with a proven track record of securing major state and federal grants.
Kate’s client-focused leadership has shaped projects from grassroots facilities to national infrastructure, always with an eye toward practical outcomes that serve communities for generations. She leads Otium with a clear vision: creating spaces that are inclusive, future-ready, and financially sustainable.
Areas of Expertise
- Project Management and Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Master Planning
- Business Cases and Feasibility
- Funding Applications
- Market Research and Engagement
- Infrastructure Planning and Development
Qualifications
- BA (Recreation)
- MBA
Jason Leslie
Director
“The best facility strategies aren’t built in boardrooms—they come from understanding how spaces actually work for the people who use them every day.”
Meet Jason Leslie, Director
His diverse background includes senior roles with the Queensland Department of Sport & Recreation and multiple not-for-profit boards, providing him with unique insight into stakeholder realities. Jason’s work spans regional and metropolitan planning studies, business cases, and major venue developments, always grounded in practical experience.
A sought-after industry presenter and skilled facilitator, Jason bridges the gap between visionary planning and operational reality.
Areas of Expertise
- Land Use Planning
- Venue Management
- Infrastructure Strategies
- Master Planning
- Feasibility and Business Cases
- Engagement
- Data Analytics
Qualifications
- Melbourne School of International Sports Facility Management
- Public Venue Management School
- Cert IV Training and Assessment
- Cert Club Development
Dave Lanfear
Director
“Great planning starts with great listening. Whether we’re working on open space strategy or trail networks, the goal is always the same: practical solutions that reflect real community needs.”
Meet Dave Lanfear, Director
Dave Lanfear brings more than two decades of strategic planning expertise across the UK and Australia, with deep specialisation in land use, strategic planning, and open space development. Having delivered over 100 projects, Dave is trusted by governments, developers, peak bodies, and community clubs alike.
His career spans leadership roles at AECOM and Coffey Sport & Leisure, as well as a decade of shaping sport and recreation policy with Sport England in the UK. Before joining Otium, Dave led his own successful consultancy, where he built a reputation for translating complex challenges into clear, actionable solutions.
As a skilled facilitator and member of the International Association for Public Participation, Dave champions inclusive consultation and community-first planning.
Areas of Expertise
- Land Use Planning
- Strategic Planning
- Master Planning
- Open Space Planning
- Community Infrastructure Planning
- Feasibility Studies
- Needs Analysis
- Business Planning
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Motor Sports
Qualifications
- BA (Hons) Town and Country Planning
- Member – International Association for Public Participation
Jason Merrett
Director New Zealand
“As Director of Otium in New Zealand, I am committed to providing high-quality planning and advisory services that strengthen sport, recreation, and community infrastructure throughout Aotearoa.”
Meet Jason Merrett, Director, New Zealand
With a proven track record in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, business planning, and the development of business cases to support sport and recreation investment, Jason has led successful funding applications, conducted management and operational reviews, and supported feasibility studies for community and facility projects.
Jason’s experience as a former National Sports Organisation Chief Executive, Regional Sports Trust Executive, and local government partner, brings a deep understanding of the sector’s challenges and opportunities across all levels.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic Planning
- Sector Engagement and Consultation
- Business Planning
- Business Cases and Feasibility Studies
- Funding Applications
- Management and Operational Reviews
Qualifications
- BA Education
- MBA
Ben Bainbridge
Associate
“Sport has incredible power to break down barriers and build bridges. My job is creating the strategies and spaces that make that magic happen for everyone.”
Meet Ben Bainbridge, Associate
Ben Bainbridge brings over 20 years of strategic planning expertise with a powerful focus on inclusion and community impact. His experience spans state and local government, as well as private consultancy, with a consistent commitment to creating sports and recreation spaces that bring people together.
Ben’s expertise covers strategic planning, land use, feasibility studies, and open space activation. He transforms facilities, parks, and public spaces into vibrant, inclusive community hubs that serve everyone from grassroots participants to elite athletes.
A passionate advocate for equity in sport, Ben has proudly supported groundbreaking initiatives including Pride Cup, Koorie Academy Deadly Sport and Culture Camps, and the Matildas’ Camp and Friendly. He brings this same values-driven leadership to every project, backed by strong facilitation skills and extensive networks across sport, government, and industry.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic Planning
- Land Use Planning
- Open Space Planning
- Master Planning
- Feasibility Studies and Business Cases
- Funding Applications
- Market Research and Engagement
- Data Analytics
Qualifications
- BA (Sports Administration)
Brad Billett
Associate
“The best community infrastructure decisions are made with solid evidence and clear vision. My role is turning data into strategies that create lasting benefits for the people who matter most.”
Meet Brad Billett, Associate
Brad Billett brings nearly two decades of proven results in sport and recreation planning, with an exceptional track record in feasibility studies, business cases, and funding strategies. His evidence-based approach has delivered major wins for community sport across Australia.
At NSW Office of Sport, Brad led the Future Needs of Sport Infrastructure Study, a landmark project that secured $300M in community sport funding and earned the 2018 PLA State Research Award. His strategic recreation and open space planning at Blacktown City Council helped shape infrastructure for one of NSW’s fastest-growing regions, work that was nationally recognised with a PLA Award for Open Space Planning.
Brad’s expertise is strengthened by qualifications in international sports management and data science, enabling him to create facilities and open spaces that drive measurable improvements in community health, wellbeing, and inclusion.
Areas of Expertise
- Feasibility Studies and Business Cases
- Funding Submissions
- Public Open Space and Land Use Planning
- Sport Infrastructure Planning
- Needs Analysis
- Data Analytics
Qualifications
- Masters of International Sports Management
- BAppSc (Sports Studies) majoring in Sports Management
- Grad Cert (Data Science)
- Certificate III – Outdoor Recreation
Bruce Mackay
Associate
“Great venues don’t happen by accident—they’re the result of smart strategy, strong operations, and teams that understand their community. My job is helping organisations bring all three together.”
Meet Bruce Mackay, Associate
With over 30 years of executive leadership in aquatics, recreation, and leisure, Bruce Mackay combines strategic vision with deep operational expertise. As a former CEO of two local government leisure enterprises, Bruce understands both the big picture and the day-to-day realities of venue success.
Bruce’s extensive experience spans indoor stadia, aquatic facilities, and leisure operations, making him the go-to expert for solving complex strategic and operational challenges. His portfolio includes master plans, feasibility studies, venue management reviews, and performance evaluations that drive real improvement.
At Otium, Bruce leads our Operational Management Support and Advisory Services, helping venue owners and managers unlock their potential through tailored reviews, executive coaching, and governance support. His approach combines strategic thinking with practical solutions that deliver measurable results
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic Planning
- Feasibility Studies and Business Cases
- Aquatic and Indoor Stadia Venue Management
- Management and Operational Reviews
Qualifications
- BAppSc (Human Movement)
- Graduate – Australian Institute of Company Directors
- Diploma (Human Resources)
Cameron Bechaz
Senior Consultant
“Successful infrastructure projects require more than good planning; they need careful stakeholder navigation and clear communication. My legal background helps me see around corners that others might miss.”
Meet Cameron Bechaz, Senior Consultant
Cameron Bechaz brings nearly 20 years of strategic expertise to sport and recreation infrastructure planning, with a unique combination of planning knowledge and legal training that proves invaluable in complex stakeholder environments.
His comprehensive experience across local and state government has built deep expertise in facility master planning, operational governance, funding applications, and stakeholder engagement, always with a focus on balancing diverse community needs and interests.
Cameron’s Law degree provides a significant advantage when navigating complex stakeholder relationships, tenure arrangements, and governance structures. At Otium, he leads and contributes to a diverse range of projects, including aquatic centre strategies, indoor sports facilities, trail development, and open space planning
Areas of Expertise
- Master Planning
- Feasibility Studies
- Funding Applications
- Infrastructure Strategies and Planning
Qualifications
- BAppSc (Sports Administration)
- LLB
Lauren Close
Senior Consultant
“The most successful projects happen when we balance organisational needs with genuine community benefit. It’s about finding that sweet spot where everyone wins.”
Meet Lauren Close, Senior Consultant
Lauren Close brings 16 years of comprehensive experience across State and Local Government in Victoria and the Northern Territory, with deep expertise in contract management, governance, strategic planning, and community engagement.
Known for her diplomatic communication style and commercial mindset, Lauren excels in complex procurement processes, funding submissions, and business case development. Her career highlights include overseeing major sports and recreation projects in the NT, from facility developments in Indigenous communities to major events such as the Rugby League World Cup 2017 and the Hidden Valley V8 Race Meet.
At Darebin City Council, Lauren led aquatic, leisure, and recreation services while developing inclusive programs that strengthened community connections. Her balanced approach consistently delivers strategic outcomes that genuinely benefit both organisations and the communities they serve
Areas of Expertise
- Market Research and Engagement
- Governance and Procurement
- Contract Management and Assessment
- Funding Applications
- Strategic Planning
- Business Cases
Qualifications
- Grad Cert (Business Management)
Kirstie Czarnecki
Senior Consultant
“Every community is unique, but they all share the same desire for spaces where people can connect, play, and thrive. My job is helping councils create exactly that.”
Meet Kirstie Czarnecki, Senior Consultant
With 16 years of experience in local government across urban fringe, metropolitan, and rural communities, Kirstie Czarnecki brings a deep understanding of how to deliver sport and recreation outcomes that truly serve diverse community needs, both now and into the future.
Kirstie’s expertise spans stakeholder engagement, project management, contract development, and funding applications, with particular strength in planning and delivering strategies and policies that create lasting community benefit. Her warm, collaborative approach has successfully guided sport and recreation strategies, licenses, and Joint Use Agreements, as well as community engagement initiatives, across a wide range of councils.
Known for building genuine partnerships and fostering inclusive planning processes, Kirstie’s passion for future-focused, community-centred solutions shines through every project she leads
Areas of Expertise
- Community and Stakeholder Engagement
- Project Management
- Funding Applications
- Facility Management Contracts
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Recreation Management and Leadership
- Diploma of Management
Mitch Jenkins
Senior Consultant
“I endeavour to engage a wide range of stakeholders, build strong working relationships and progress towards achievable goals to result in important real-life outcomes delivered for communities.”
Meet Mitch Jenkins, Senior Consultant
Mitch Jenkins has over 15 years’ experience in the sport and recreation industry spanning local government, as well as professional, semi-professional and community sporting clubs. His background includes recreation planning, infrastructure project delivery and venue management working in peri-urban and regional growth councils.
In his work as a recreation planner, Mitch was responsible for Council adopted recreation infrastructure plans, reserve master plans, feasibility studies, policy development and many successful funding applications.
He has worked in growth areas planning and was a strong advocate for the importance and benefits of open space and sporting facilities in new communities
Areas of Expertise
- Sport Infrastructure Planning
- Master Planning
- Feasibility Studies
- Funding Applications
- Community & Stakeholder Engagement
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Exercise Science (Human Movement)
- Bachelor of Management
Aditi Karande
Senior Consultant
“Great places don’t just happen; they’re carefully designed to reflect people’s needs, values, and aspirations. My role is making sure every space tells a story that matters to the community.”
Meet Aditi Karande, Senior Consultant
With a background spanning urban design, architecture, and community infrastructure planning, Aditi Karande brings both creative vision and strategic thinking to the spaces where communities live, gather, and play.
Aditi’s diverse experience across local government, education, and private practice has contributed to major urban and open space planning projects. At Liverpool City Council, she led the Recreation and Open Space Strategy, engaged communities on key infrastructure projects, and developed functional briefs for parks, landscapes, and public spaces that truly connect to community wellbeing.
Her skill set encompasses precinct planning, landscape design, urban planning, community engagement, and funding strategies, all underpinned by a deep understanding of how built form and green space influence inclusion and quality of life. Aditi also draws on early career experience in architecture practices in India and academic work as a University of Sydney urban design tutor
Areas of Expertise
- Urban Planning
- Urban Design Advice
- Precinct Planning – Built Form and Open Space
- Landscape Design
- Community Engagement Strategies
- Community Infrastructure Planning
Qualifications
- Master of Urbanism (Urban Design)
- Bachelor of Architecture
Malcolm Kuhn
Senior Consultant
“High-performing facilities need high-performing teams and strong community connections. When you get the people side right, everything else follows.”
Meet Malcolm Kuhn, Senior Consultant
With over 30 years of leadership experience spanning the local government and private sectors, Malcolm Kuhn is a highly respected industry figure recognised for his passion for community outcomes, team culture, and operational excellence.
As former Manager of Leisure and Recreation Services at the City of Greater Geelong, Malcolm oversaw one of Australia’s largest council-operated leisure portfolios. His achievements include delivering major infrastructure projects, such as the $31 million Leisurelink Aquatic and Recreation Centre and the $9 million expansion of the Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre.
At Otium, Malcolm brings comprehensive expertise in aquatic and stadium facilities management, feasibility studies, master planning, contract development, and financial modelling. His people-first approach to stakeholder engagement has established a reputation for fostering strong relationships across all sectors and achieving successful project outcomes
Areas of Expertise
- Aquatic and Stadiums Facilities Management
- Feasibility Studies and Business Cases
- Master Planning
- Financial Modelling
- Staff Structure and Operational Reviews
- Facility Management Contracts
- Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Qualifications
- BAppSc (Human Movement) majoring in Sports Administration
- Dip Bus (Frontline Management)
- Certificate – Pool Operator
Josie MacCartney
Senior Consultant
“Major facilities are only as good as the partnerships behind them. Success comes from bringing together the right people, the right processes, and a shared vision for community benefit.”
Meet Josie MacCartney, Senior Consultant
Josie MacCartney brings comprehensive expertise in contract management, venue operations, and feasibility planning, with a proven track record in planning and delivering major leisure and aquatic facilities.
In her previous role at the City of Darebin, Josie played an instrumental role in the planning, delivery, and activation of Narrandjeri Stadium and the Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre. Her leadership included overseeing operator contracts through critical pre-opening and establishment phases, as well as managing a complex portfolio of license and service agreements across council-run leisure facilities.
Josie’s core strengths lie in project management, stakeholder engagement, and operational reviews, all underpinned by her ability to navigate complex service contracts and foster the strong partnerships essential to bringing major projects to life successfully.
Areas of Expertise
- Contract Management and Assessment
- Aquatic and Indoor Stadia Venue Management
- Feasibility Studies and Business Cases
- Facility Management and Operational Reviews
- Market Research and Engagement
Qualifications
- BA (Recreation Management)
- Certificate 4 in Training and Assessment
Wayne Stuart
Senior Consultant
Meet Wayne Stuart, Senior Consultant
With over 20 years of experience in the recreation industry, Wayne Stuart combines strategic thinking with deep technical expertise in infrastructure planning, asset audits, and facility strategy, particularly in metropolitan and regional Western Australia.
Wayne’s extensive government experience has delivered sport and recreation infrastructure projects that genuinely reflect community needs. His core strengths include functional facility audits, asset and maintenance planning, and training and development, all grounded in a thorough understanding of how infrastructure supports community wellbeing and connection.
A recognised industry contributor, Wayne has presented widely and developed essential planning resources, including the Recreation Strategy Checklist and Community Facilities Terminology and Definitions Guide, through his involvement with Parks and Leisure Australia WA. His work has shaped planning approaches across the sector.
Areas of Expertise
- Infrastructure Strategies and Plans
- Strategic Facility Planning
- Industry and Project Research
- Functional Facility and Asset Audits
- Training and Development
Qualifications
- MBA (Project Management)
- Grad Cert (Asset and Maintenance Management)
- BSc (Exercise & Sports Science)
- Diplomas – Management, Event Management, Project Management
- Certified Parks and Leisure Professional (CPLP)
Daniele Lapedota
Recreation Planner
Meet Daniele Lapedota, Recreation Planner
Daniele Lapedota represents the next generation of recreation planning professionals, bringing fresh energy, genuine passion, and growing expertise to Otium’s strategic planning team. With a background in sport and recreation management, Daniele is already making valuable contributions to strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and facility audits across a diverse range of projects.
Daniele gained practical experience at UniSport Australia, helping deliver the 2022 Nationals in Perth, from coordinating venue logistics and volunteer training to medal presentations and event delivery. His experience extended to competition planning at Swimming WA, where he supported athlete logistics and team operations.
With a strong customer service mindset and authentic passion for sport’s power to unite communities, Daniele is quickly establishing himself as a trusted collaborator who brings both enthusiasm and competence to every project.
Areas of Expertise
- Project Research
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Functional Facility and Asset Audits
- Strategic Facility Planning
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Commerce (Sport and Recreation Management)
- Diploma (Sport Development)
- Certificate IV (Sport Development)
Saee Patil
Recreation Planner
“Having worked on the operational side of aquatics facilities, I understand both the day-to-day realities and the bigger picture potential. My role is bringing that ground-level insight to strategic planning that actually works for communities.”
Meet Saee Patil, Recreation Planner
Saee Patil has a unique combination of aquatics operations expertise and strategic planning qualifications that brings valuable real-world perspective to recreation planning projects. Her passion for sports industry development and education is backed by comprehensive experience in aquatics program delivery and facility operations.
Saee’s practical experience at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and Geelong Grammar School included coordinating and executing sports programs, swim teaching, and comprehensive program planning. Her operational responsibilities extended to plant room operations, where she developed an Operations Manual and Water Quality Risk Management Plan to ensure full compliance with council regulations.
Through Program Supervisor and Coordinator roles, Saee developed strong management and leadership experience, including recruitment, team development, and strategic planning. Her diverse qualifications spanning sports management, tourism, and international business provide a broad perspective on recreation planning challenges and opportunities.
Areas of Expertise
- Project Research
- Data Analysis
- Stakeholder and Community Engagement
- Facility and Asset Audits
- Program and Event Planning
Qualifications
- Master of Sports Management
- Master of Tourism
- BBus (International Business)
- Pool Lifeguard Certificate
Thomas Woods
Recreation Planner
“Great planning starts with great data, but it’s what you do with those insights that makes the difference. I love finding the stories hidden in the numbers that help create better opportunities for everyone.”
Meet Thomas Woods, Recreation Planner
Thomas Woods represents the analytical future of recreation planning, with a passion for transforming data into insights that create stronger, more inclusive sport and recreation opportunities. A recent Sport Management graduate, Thomas began his Otium journey as an intern and quickly proved his value as a permanent team member.
His standout project with the Western Sydney Wanderers saw Thomas lead a team in reviewing and analysing complex club membership data, gaining real-world experience in stakeholder communication and sports analytics while delivering actionable insights.
At Otium, Thomas contributes research, mapping, stakeholder engagement, literature reviews, and preparation of background and engagement reports across diverse planning projects. His analytical approach, combined with a collaborative spirit, makes him an increasingly valuable contributor to strategic outcomes
Areas of Expertise
- Project Research
- Literature Reviews
- Data Analysis
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Mapping
Qualifications
- BBus (Sport Management)
Amy Strong
Research Officer
“The best community projects happen when you combine solid data, clear mapping, and a genuine understanding of what makes neighbourhoods tick. Plus, there’s nothing like parkrun for seeing how simple initiatives can transform communities.”
Meet Amy Strong, Research Officer
Amy Strong brings a dynamic combination of technical expertise and community passion to Otium’s planning and project delivery. Her diverse background spans research, compliance, marketing, and stakeholder engagement making her a versatile asset across every stage of project development.
Amy’s core contributions include literature reviews, GIS mapping, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. Her Geographic Information Systems (GIS) expertise is particularly valuable, providing detailed and accurate mapping support that strengthens project outcomes across diverse planning challenges.
With experience spanning executive support, marketing, auditing, and digital platforms, Amy’s cross-disciplinary skills enhance both internal operations and community-facing engagement. Outside of work, she demonstrates her commitment to active living through her long-standing volunteer leadership with parkrun Australia, where she has helped launch and grow events in partnership with local councils and communities since 2014.
Areas of Expertise
- Research
- Data Analysis
- Project Management Support
- Mapping
Qualifications
- Internal Auditing and Lead Auditor
Larissa Kleiss
Marketing & Communications
“Great planning deserves great storytelling. My job is making sure our work connects with people in ways that are clear, compelling, and genuinely useful to the communities we serve.”
Meet Larissa Kleiss, Marketing & Communications
Larissa Kleiss brings over a decade of high-level event management, project coordination, and communications experience to Otium, playing a vital role in connecting our work with the communities and clients we serve.
Larissa’s experience includes 10 years with the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne working across the planning, operations, and delivery phases, and at Games time was responsible for the planning, management and delivery of the Sport Presentation and Medal Ceremonies programs. She later led ceremonies and protocol at La Trobe University, delivering seamless graduation and high-profile events both locally and internationally.
At Otium, Larissa supports everything from marketing and visual communications to event coordination, design, and mapping ensuring our planning work is as engaging and impactful in presentation as it is thorough in development. Her experience managing complex, high-stakes events brings exceptional attention to detail and stakeholder management to every project.
Areas of Expertise
- Marketing and Communications
- Project Management
- Presentation, Design and Mapping
- Event Management, Planning and Operations
Qualifications
- BA (Industrial Design)
- Grad Cert (Project Management)
Suzi Culic
Accounts Manager
“Outstanding planning needs solid foundations, and that starts with getting the financial fundamentals right. I’m here to make sure the business side runs seamlessly so our planners can focus on what they do best.”
Meet Suzi Culic, Accounts Manager
Suzi Culic brings qualified accounting expertise with comprehensive experience across business management, finance, and client services, spanning the sports, government, education, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors.
Before joining Otium, Suzi worked with one of Australia’s largest accounting firms, supporting clients with complex financial operations and reporting requirements. Her cross-sector experience provides a valuable perspective on the financial challenges and opportunities across different industries and project types.
At Otium, Suzi plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role ensuring smooth and efficient financial management of projects and business operations, providing the solid foundation that enables our planning team to focus on delivering outstanding outcomes for clients and communities
Areas of Expertise
- Business Management
Qualifications
- BBus (Accounting)
- Grad Dip ICAA
Nell Peters
Administration Manager
“It’s the behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything moving and I’m proud to be part of a team that makes a real impact.”
Meet Nell Peters, Administration Manager
With over 25 years of experience in office administration and organisational support, Nell Peters serves as the operational heart of Otium, bringing dedication, structure, and genuine warmth to every aspect of the business.
Nell’s relationship with Otium Director Kate Maddock dates back to 2003, providing trusted support across recreation, leisure, arts, culture, and parks during her tenure in local government. This long-standing professional relationship has built a deep understanding of both the industry and Otium’s unique approach to planning excellence.
At Otium, Nell leads administration, project support, and office management with exceptional interpersonal skills and a consistent focus on building strong, collaborative teams. Her behind-the-scenes work ensures everything runs smoothly, from day-to-day operations to complex project coordination.
Areas of Expertise
- Administration
- Project Management Support
- Office Management
- Customer Service
Qualifications
- Dip (Administration)
Martin Lambert
Senior Associate
“Urban health infrastructure isn’t just about parks and trails—it’s about creating connected networks of spaces where communities can thrive physically, mentally, and socially.”
Meet Martin Lambert, Senior Associate & Founding Director
Martin Lambert stands as one of Australia’s most respected voices in open space planning and outdoor recreation. With over 20 years of consulting experience, Martin has influenced planning policy across every Australian state and territory, working with both public and private sectors.
His vision centres on “Urban Health Infrastructure”, the concept that open spaces and community places are fundamental to physical, mental, and social wellbeing. This philosophy has guided his work on master plans, feasibility studies, urban design strategies, and policy development nationwide.
A former National President of Parks and Leisure Australia (2016–2018), Martin received the prestigious Frank Stewart Award in 2020. He regularly designs training modules for councils and clubs and is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences
Areas of Expertise
- Open Space Policy and Planning
- Master Planning
- Outdoor Recreation
- Nature Based Tourism
- Commercial Outdoor Recreation
- Feasibility and Business Cases
- Management and Implementation
Qualifications
- MEd (Social & Environmental)
- BAppSc (Parks & Recreation)
- Assoc Dip (Rural Techniques – Wilderness Reserves & Wildlife)
David Mason
Senior Associate
“Planning for active and healthy living means designing environments that inspire movement, foster wellbeing, and connect communities—because health begins where we live, work, and play.”
Meet David Mason, Senior Associate & Founding Director
David Mason has over 30 years consulting experience in the sport and leisure industry. He draws on the breadth of his consulting and ‘hands on’ senior management experience to ensure that study outcomes are realistic and achievable.
David’s knowledge of facility planning from major events to community sport and recreation is reflected in the breadth of his client base which includes State and Territory governments throughout Australia, Olympic Coordination Authority, Queensland Events, state sporting organisations, and scores of Australian local governments.
With a keen interest in planning environments for active & healthy living, David has been active in debate around planning for active communities and continues to advocate in this field.
Areas of Expertise
- Sport and Recreation Facility Planning
- Master Planning
- Land Use Planning
- Market Research
- Strategic Planning
- Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Qualifications
- BA (Recreation Administration)
- Assoc Dip (Community Recreation)