18FIFTY3 - Key Persons


Ben Surawski

Job Titles:
  • General Manager

Isobel Bender

Job Titles:
  • Distinguished Environmental Specialist
  • Senior Environmental Lead
Isobel Bender, a distinguished environmental specialist with a comprehensive background in policy analysis, science communication, and on-ground conservation. Educated at the Australian National University, Isobel holds a degree majoring in Environmental Studies and Biodiversity Conservation Management, complemented by a Certificate 3 in Conservation and Ecosystem Management. Her academic contributions, particularly in water policy and biodiversity offset policy, are well-regarded, with several published papers to her name. Isobel excels in translating complex scientific information into accessible knowledge, particularly in the water sector for government agencies, showcasing her prowess in science communication. Isobel's practical experience is equally notable, with over four years dedicated to riparian restoration and regenerative agriculture projects. Her involvement in the carbon market from an industry perspective and her collaborative work with the Ngunnawal peoples underscore her commitment to inclusive and sustainable environmental practices. Passionate about climate change adaptation and conservation management, she brings a unique blend of academic research and field expertise to our team, driven by her belief in the power of connecting people with their environment to foster its care and preservation.

John Sayers

Job Titles:
  • Director

Peter Chia

Job Titles:
  • Community & Project Lead
Peter Chia has working within the construction, civil and landscape sector over a 32 year career, working across NSW. Key projects include the Sydney Olympics, Eastern Distributor Upgrade, Sydney Airport Domestic Terminal Upgrade, Sydney Ports Corporation, Garden Island remediation, Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Sydney Zoo Construction, Western Sydney Parklands, National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW Dept Education Building Education Revolution (BER) Program, Penrith Lakes Development Corporation mine closure amongst others. Peter advised on the Aboriginal Procurement Policy (APP) with Office of Prime and Cabinet in 2012 to 2013 and launched the policy with Prime Minister's Office, as CEO from Muru Mittigar Western Sydney resulting in over 75 FTE jobs for local Aboriginal community over a 9 year tenure.

Richard Baker

Job Titles:
  • NT Manager