Our Team
Management Committee
Karen Marlow
President
Karen is honored to join the Management Committee, bringing over a decade of experience as a real estate agent in the North-West Brisbane suburbs, alongside an extensive career in project management and consultancy.
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With a professional journey encompassing business improvement, cross-functional team leadership, and strategic planning, She has honed these skills through international engagements across Europe, Asia, and the US.
This role offers a valuable opportunity to apply her expertise in support of OWNQ’s mission. Committed to fostering the organisation’s growth and development, Karen is dedicated to ensuring it continues to support and advocate for older women in Queensland. She looks forward to working collaboratively with the committee to achieve these shared objectives.
Rosemerry Paidley
Treasurer
Rosemerry has been an active member of the Mackay branch for nearly 10 years, dedicated to helping women lead fulfilling lives as they age. In 2021, she joined the OWNQ Management Committee, where she has worked to create a meaningful impact behind the scenes.
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Her committee role has enabled her to contribute to the organisation’s success while gaining insights into its operations. She strongly advocates for regional representation within OWNQ, enhancing the connection between urban and rural communities.
In the Mackay branch, where members meet weekly, Rosemerry enjoys seeing friendships develop and mutual support grow among members. The knowledge shared in these gatherings underscores the Network’s effectiveness in improving members’ lives.
Her commitment to the mission of OWNQ and her passion for building community make her a valuable asset, ensuring that the voices of women in regional areas are heard and valued.
Lisa Signorini
Secretary
Lisa has extensive experience in administration and leadership, starting her career with Franklins before moving into the childcare sector after raising her five children. After relocating to Queensland in 2009, she managed a family furniture business with her partner.
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Lisa became the On-site Manager and Kitchen Manager at her over-50s complex, reflecting her commitment to community service.
Since joining OWNQ in 2020, she has served as Co-convenor and Secretary of the Morayfield branch and was appointed Secretary of the Management Committee in 2022.
With her background in administration and connection with older individuals, Lisa brings valuable skills and a strong understanding of senior women’s needs. Her commitment to empowering others aligns with the mission of OWNQ.
Lee Hodgson
Lee joined OWNQ in 2002, showcasing her commitment to community service. After serving as convenor of the Gympie branch, she relocated to Maroochydore, stepping in as convenor when the original leader returned to NSW. Lee is one of the OWNQ representatives on the National Older Women’s Network board.
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Elected President of OWNQ in 2018, Lee has fulfilled this role with distinction and remains an active member of the Management Committee after stepping down.
Throughout her career, Lee balanced management positions and volunteered extensively. She served with Meals on Wheels Gympie for nearly a decade and spent 20 years on the Gympie Library committee, delivering books to those unable to leave home. She also raised funds for the Corinda Nursing Home and led as President of Curra Community Hall.
At the Maroochydore Branch, Lee helped build a partnership with the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, raising funds and providing food for those in need.
Lee’s dedication to helping others has made a lasting impact on every community she has touched, inspiring those around her with her commitment to service.
Marianne Wright
With over 20 years of experience working with older adults and volunteers in a number of not-for-profit community organisations, Marianne has valuable insights into this community’s needs. She holds a Certificate IV in Volunteer Program Coordination, has strong skills in event coordination and logistics, and chairs the Policy Subcommittee.
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Since joining OWNQ in 2015, Marianne has been instrumental in the organisation, serving as Secretary in 2016 and 2017 and helping to organise the 2017 National Conference and the planning subcommittee for the 2021 conference. Her involvement with the Policies Subcommittee has deepened her understanding of OWNQ’s policies.
In 2018, she transitioned to a staff role at OWNQ, during which the organisation doubled its membership and branches.
Her extensive experience in aged care, volunteer coordination, and service to OWNQ gives her a unique perspective on the organisation. She is eager to contribute to the committee this year, bringing her knowledge and experience to advance OWNQ’s mission.