A small and dedicated staff team ensures the work of RDA Northern Rivers continues to support the diverse communities of the Northern Rivers.
Alex Smith, Director of Regional Development
Alex has had a long career in management across government, industry and agriculture and has been a Commissioner in the NSW Government, Executive Manager for the Berry industry across Australia and General Manager of several commercial entities. He previously held the position of RDA Northern Rivers CEO, from 2015 to 2018. During this time, he worked closely with community stakeholders, politicians and industry to focus on programs that targeted youth unemployment, economic resilience and environmental initiatives. Returning in 2024 to the role of Director of Regional Development, Alex’s broad experience and knowledge of our region, dealing with government and engaging the community ensures the continued good work of RDA Northern Rivers to seek opportunities for growth.
Kyllie Walker, Finance and Data Analyst
Kyllie is the face behind the stats on the RDA Northern Rivers websites. Utilising data from various sources, Kyllie creates easy to read regional data sets for local government, business and industry. Kyllie was born and raised locally and has an avid appreciation of the Northern Rivers. On completing high school at Trinity Kyllie headed to Melbourne to study Business at RMIT and begin her career. Kyllie’s professional background is in the finance and business management areas in both commercial and not-for-profit environments, nationally and internationally. Kyllie joined the RDA-NR in April 2013 working in both finance and research and is excited about the opportunity to contribute to the work of RDA-Northern Rivers.
Heidi Bone, Communications Officer
Heidi joined RDA Northern Rivers in April 2014 as a graduate from our 2013 Digi-Advantage regional program. She holds a BA in Communications and has a keen interest in digital media and marketing strategy. Her role includes editor of our regular e-News newsletter, managing our social media and keeping the RDA Northern Rivers website up to date. She is an office ICT all-rounder and keeps the office IT systems maintained as well as undertaking specific projects. Heidi has a background in administration and project work in the not for profit and tertiary education sectors.