CHAIR

Dr Steve Vidler is a writer, director and highly regarded creative leader working at the intersection of storytelling, cultural strategy and social impact. Originally from the Central West, he is deeply committed to strengthening regional communities through the arts. His career spans screen, performance, education and large-scale cultural programs, with work recognised at major international festivals and award bodies. As Chair of Orana Arts, Steve brings both creative vision and strategic leadership, driving partnerships, investment and opportunities that elevate artists and position the region as a dynamic centre for cultural production.

VICE CHAIR

Kate Gaul is an acclaimed theatre and opera director, creative producer, festival director and writer, known for her distinctive, inventive approach to performance. A graduate of NIDA (Directing), her work spans plays, opera, physical theatre and devised works, collaborating with companies and artists across Australia. She is the Artistic Director of Siren Theatre Co, where her passion for text-driven storytelling creates bold, imaginative experiences that challenge both artists and audiences. Kate’s career also includes directing major festivals and events, bringing a deep commitment to creative excellence and cultural leadership.

SECRETARY

Pip Abbott is a lawyer specialising in Indigenous rights, governance and environmental law, with a career dedicated to supporting Aboriginal communities and organisations across Australia. Her work spans native title, land rights, corporate governance and legal advocacy, informed by experience across both community-led legal services and complex commercial environments. Pip brings a thoughtful, principled approach to navigating law, culture and country, with a strong focus on equity and long-term impact. Pip is committed to contributing her expertise to strengthen regional communities and support a thriving arts and cultural sector.

TREASURER

Fiona MacDonald is an artist and curator based in Ilford, whose work explores the intersections of place, memory and cultural history. Known for her immersive, installation-based practice, she draws on local traditions and the layered narratives of social and natural environments. Since 2014, Fiona has been a curator at the Kandos Museum, where she has played a key role in shaping exhibitions that connect community, heritage and contemporary practice. With firsthand experience as a regional artist, she brings a nuanced understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing artists outside metropolitan centres. Fiona was also an early participant in the Volunteers. Artists. Museums. Program (VAMP), undertaking a residency with the Henry Lawson Centre in Gulgong.

BOARD MEMBER

Greg Hall is a highly experienced media professional and project manager, with a career spanning journalism, documentary filmmaking and digital communications. His work is grounded in storytelling that connects with diverse audiences and brings regional voices to the forefront. With a strong track record in leading projects and navigating evolving media landscapes, Greg brings both strategic insight and creative thinking to his role. As a board member of Orana Arts, he is committed to fostering innovation, inclusive collaboration and a dynamic arts culture across the Central West and beyond.

CULTURAL ADVISOR + ELDER-IN-RESIDENCE

Aunty Ruth Carney is a respected Narromine Elder and passionate advocate for community, culture and heritage. She has played a pivotal role in local cultural development, including formalising partnerships that led to the establishment of the Narromine Museum in collaboration with Narromine Council and Ngarru Mayin Corporation. Aunty Ruth has worked closely with Orana Arts across a number of initiatives, including Staging Stories, supporting Aboriginal young people to share their voices through storytelling. Together with her late husband, Uncle Dick, her life and legacy inspired the acclaimed theatre work A Little Piece of Heaven—a powerful First Nations-led production that toured regionally and was celebrated at the 2019 Yirramboi Festival. Aunty Ruth brings deep cultural knowledge, generosity and leadership to her role on the board.