Board Members

The ASWA AGM takes place annually in February, in Albany. The current ASWA Board was elected in February 2025. We also invite other ASWA members to bring their particular skills to contribute via sub-committees e.g. organising workshops, advertising, grant writing etc. See the current 2025 membership form for more details on how you can help.

Click on each photo to find out more about our current Board members.

• Seirah Woodward

  Chairperson

  
• Simone Klose

  Vice Chairperson

  
• Margarethe Lachman

  Secretary

  
• Kerry Leahy

  Treasurer

  
• Carol Hope

  Board Member

  
• Abigail Parker

  Board Member

  
• Tracy Sleeman

  Board Member

  
• Lee Garvey

  Board Member

  
Seirah Woodward

Chairperson

Interior Design, Architectural Draftsperson & Visual Artist

I studied Interior Design at the Enmore Design School and Post Graduate Diploma in Design at University of Technology and Colour & Design School of Colour & Design.

Worked in Sydney as a Senior Interior Design and as a Design Manager for both positions involved design, project and construction management

I moved to Denmark in 2007, and work for HH Architects and now as a sole trader.

It wasn’t till I came to live in Denmark, that my interest in art reignited itself and now is quite a passion of mine. My art is abstract and based on the environment around me and what comes into my head.

I discovered the Southern Art and Craft Trail not long after arriving in Denmark, finally in 2018 I decided that I would take part. That was some learning curve. I participated every year since

I’m great with working to deadlines and I’m an organized person, a list maker

I am looking forward to contributing my knowledge and skills to ArtSouthWA



Simone Klose

Vice Chairperson

As a seasoned creative leader and mentor deeply entrenched in community engagement, I bring a wealth of experience and a values-driven approach to the table. With a strong foundation built upon honesty, respect, loyalty, humility, and creativity, I’ve fostered inclusive collaborations that transcend cultural and regional boundaries. My dedication to empowering individuals and fostering partnerships has consistently fuelled successful projects, particularly in the realm of regional and cultural tourism. Creativity is not just a buzzword for me; it’s a guiding principle that encourages innovative problem-solving and personal growth. My knack for thinking outside the box has consistently propelled me forward, both personally and professionally. I am confident that my blend of administrative acumen and artistic vision will greatly benefit the ASWA Board, as I am committed to advancing its mission of promoting and supporting the arts in South Western Australia.

I have a Diploma in Events Management and Tourism and I’m currently completing my Cert IV in Training and Assessment as well as an online Curtin University Noongar Language course. I have 30+ years’ experience in hospitality and events and 12 years’ experience in the tourism industry.

In 2021 I started my own Freelance Consulting Business, Down South Creative, which has given me the flexibility to work on projects all over regional Australia. I am currently working with a First Nations organisation in Kununurra developing cultural tourism products, events and food tourism, hospitality and event management mentoring.

Margarethe Lachman

Secretary

I am the owner of Lavender Bee — a retail shop in Mt Barker — specializing in arts, crafts and hobby supplies. I started my retail career in 2002, in one of the largest art supply stores in Pretoria, South Africa. I was soon conducting workshops and product demonstrations. Moving on to my own craft supply business, I was a regular contributor to the ‘Kids’ Craft’ magazine; testing and developing craft projects for kids and juggling motherhood at the same time.

After immigrating to Australia, I got involved in performing art, performing and making stage props and designing projections. My biggest creation being a life-sized elephant, dancing on stage! I hosted a solo exhibition at my home studio in 2015, showcasing mixed-media works. I have participated in various craft markets and street festivals. I have organized a mix of craft workshops for both kids and adults throughout the years.

I studied design at the Open Window Institute in South Africa and obtained my diploma in 1997. In that same year, I acquired my Dance Teacher’s Certificate at the Dance Academy of South Africa.



Kerry Leahy

Treasurer

Kerry Leahy is delighted to be working in the Arts again. Kerry has spent most of her working life in not for profits. She worked for Community Aid Abroad which became Oxfam for 14 years, her final role being a Shop Manager.

She moved to Albany in 2010 and spent 3 years with Saint Vinnies also as a shop manager. Looking for a career change, she completed her Advanced Diploma in Accounting in 2016. She did some bookkeeping volunteering with 100.9FM, then worked for Denmark CRC as an Accounts Assistant.  She was employed for 5 years with Denmark Arts as a Finance Manager. During Covid, she stepped sideways to “essential work” as a console operator at Ampol. Missing the numbers, she spent 8 months with an accounting firm, but couldn’t find the passion as she prefers working within an organisation rather than spreading herself across many clients. She is currently bookkeeping for a company focused on regenerative agriculture. Kerry has missed the Arts culture and the connection to artists across the South Coast and is thrilled to be joining ArtSouthWA.

In her spare time she loves singing, bush walking, cards, and camping with friends.

Carol Hope

Board Member

I am the owner of Albany Art Café and Workshops at the Juniper Centre in Albany.

I‘m a big believer in sharing my knowledge and creativity with others, but I also love hearing about what other artists are passionate about and projects they’re working on.

I’ve been teaching workshops for 6 years within my business, including resin, acrylic painting, fluid acrylic pouring, clay, and linocut printing. I’m also involved in the City of Albany Festivals, running children’s art activities.

Previous to starting my business, I was a consultant for an Australian craft company for 11 years and worked in hospitality.

I’m no stranger to general admin duties, payroll, bookkeeping and planning events.

I believe I can contribute some great ideas to help support the Art Trail and create positive connections to learn about and help promote the artists in our area.



Abigail Parker

Board Member

 My background is farming and teaching… I ran an Educational Assessment Unit in UK for several years, before migrating here to develop and run the family farm business whilst rearing 3 children. I have always had to make my own way, and been quite entrepreneurial – but not, I hope, bossy… more facilitator and coordinator. I like to plan, to help organise, and to see things through.

Retiring from full-time work, I studied art at TAFE, then through Open University. I’m now focused on developing my career as a painter (watercolours and oils). I also volunteer: currently with ArtSouth, Phoenix Fine Arts, and CWA Albany Branch.

I have two reasons for supporting ArtSouth…

1/ Art Trail itself is a very worthwhile event, and now we have the new Easter Trail as well. Both provide much-needed support for our local artists.

2/ ArtSouth could potentially become an artistic unifying force… a powerful overarching body representing the needs of our diverse local artistic community.

You can find out more about me at my website HERE

Tracy Sleeman

Board Member

Tracy has extensive experience in community engagement, volunteerism and organisational governance. Her humour and sense of creativity reaches across generations. This includes initiatives like the “Wild Brumbies” a collection of rescued unwanted rocking horses used for toddler engagement at events through to seniors activities and the development of Breakfast in the Park for the homeless and disadvantaged.

Lee Garvey

Board Member

I joined ArtSouthWA to contribute to the vibrant artistic community in the Albany region and to help foster a love of art among younger people. I am passionate about sharing skills and encouraging emerging artists to explore their creativity. Through my involvement, I hope to support opportunities for learning, collaboration, and artistic growth within our community.