Carolyn Kirk

CEO; Board Secretary, RI Volunteer

With over 30 years experience in adult tertiary and university sectors, Carolyn felt called in 2023 to look to where she could apply her educational experience and administration giftings to a faith-fuelled purpose. Soon after relocating to the Sunshine Coast she found exactly that in the Christian Religious Education Program not-for-profit charity. It's only when commencing in the role of CEO did it become clear how well prepared her previous life in secular education had prepared her for the diverse requirements of running such a worthwhile endeavour.

Susan Grimley

Head of Training

Susan has served across RI as an instructor, school coordinator, and trainer for many years. Shaped by a Bible college internship under the mentorship of Nicky Ross (former CEO) and a Bachelor of Primary Education, she has recently stepped into the role of Head of Training. Susan aims to lead with both enthusiasm and authenticity. She also prioritises family life and loves raising her two beautiful children. She liaises with pastors to authorise church volunteers, assigns mentors to support their development, and runs training sessions—all while balancing the demands of family life.

Pippa Bugden

Contract Trainer

Pippa is an RI all-rounder—serving as an Instructor, Team Coordinator across multiple schools, RI Trainer, and a passionate advocate within her church. A qualified teacher, she draws on her pedagogical expertise to guide new volunteers through competency-based training, tailoring her approach to each individual’s needs. With a collaborative mentorship style and a gift for making complex ideas accessible, Pippa inspires others with her infectious passion for sharing the gospel with young children.

David Glen

Contract Trainer

David's career history includes secondary school teaching for 20 years, being a missionary to Papua New Guinea for 11 years as Boarding School Principal, evangelism video producer and bible translator. David has been a long term church elder, and is currently involved in prison chaplaincy and running a new hinterland men's fellowship group. He was mentored by Nicky Ross to become an RI trainer just before COVID closed schools, and is now returning to fulfil on his commitment to RI.

Karien Le Roux

Contract Project Officer

Karien is a versatile Project Officer with broad experience across operations, communications, and organisational management. She excels in delivering discrete administrative and creative tasks that sit outside the scope of our day-to-day operations. Her research has streamlined data collection and record management, and her attention to detail has been invaluable in coordinating a special event. With qualifications in Audio-Visual Production Management and a flair for creativity, Karien is a trusted resource who helps us systematise, streamline, and professionalise our services and presence.