Patron & Board

The Wayne Weaver Foundation is guided by leaders whose experience, cultural commitment, and professional insight help shape the vision and direction of the organisation.

Founder/Patron

Birrunga Wiradyuri

Birrunga Wiradyuri

Founder/Patron

Born in 1963 on Wangal and Gadigal country in Lilyfield, inner-western Sydney, eastern plains Wiradyuri man, Birrunga is a distinguished Wiradyuri, founder and principal artist of the multi-award-winning Birrunga Gallery, with cultural permission and through ceremony, based in the heart of Meanjin (Brisbane) on Turrbal, Jagera, Yugera Country.

As a Cultural practitioner and visual artist, Birrunga's narrative works delve into the spirituality of the Wiradyuri people, exploring both historical and contemporary contexts. His commitment to Cultural responsibilities is guided by the central Wiradyuri law of Yindyamarra; to do something slowly, to respect, to be gentle, to be polite, to honour.

Birrunga’s personal Lore is the Lore of the sky and the sky is his Totem. Birrunga’s family Lore is story telling.

In 2019 Birrunga established the Cultural Creative Development Program, now in its 7th year. The program has a non-linear curriculum and develops emerging First Nations artists.

Beyond his artistic endeavours, Birrunga co-founded and is the Patron of the Wayne Weaver Foundation, a charity dedicated to providing pro bono Cultural support across a range of disciplines.

Birrunga co-founded and is Patron for IITOQ (Independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland)

Birrunga is the Patron for the Monto Museum Of Art.

Birrunga's influence extends to large-scale public artworks, including a notable mural featuring Blue-Banded Bees in Bathurst, which has been recognised for its Cultural significance.

More recently Birrunga has been engaged to advise, design, curate and implement arts installations in Tier 1 projects in the lead up to 2032 as well as being sought as a Cultural Advisor in developing successful Reconciliation Action Plans in the Architectural and design industries

Through his multifaceted contributions, he continues to enrich and promote First Nations art and Culture within Australia and beyond.

Board

Suzanne Goodchild

Suzanne Goodchild

Founder/Board Member

Suzanne Goodchild, a strategic advisory practice focused on culturally intelligent leadership, governance excellence, and ethical enterprise development. She is also the CEO of Birrunga Gallery & Dining and Director of Birrunga Gallery, where she leads one of Brisbane’s pioneering First Nations cultural enterprises integrating art, culture, education, events, and corporate engagement. An experienced strategist, speaker, trainer, and mentor, Suzanne works across corporate and community sectors supporting organisations to strengthen leadership capability, governance frameworks, and culturally informed decision-making. Suzanne is widely respected for her ability to bridge cultural insight with commercial strategy, helping organisations develop responsible leadership practices that foster growth, accountability, and long-term impact.

Darryl Florence

Darryl Florence

Board Member

I have been an artist since the late 1980s, working mainly with Atelier acrylics, Aboriginal art, and natural ochre in its raw form. My artwork has always been strongly influenced by colour, texture, storytelling, and a deep appreciation for the Australian landscape and traditional artistic expression. Over the years I have continued to develop my own style while exploring different techniques and mediums. During the 1990s, I also became involved in leadlight and glass art, creating handcrafted pieces that combined artistic design with detailed craftsmanship. Working with glass opened another creative pathway for me and allowed me to expand my skills into both decorative and functional art forms. Art and craftsmanship have remained an important part of my life for more than three decades. I continue to enjoy creating original works and sharing my passion for art with others. Alongside my artistic interests, I am also dedicated to supporting my local community and currently serve as President of the Tenterfield Men's Shed. In this role, I help encourage mateship, wellbeing, practical skills, and community involvement while helping create a welcoming place where people can connect, learn, and share experiences.

Shane Hickey

Shane Hickey

Board Member

Shane Hickey is a proud Dunghutti/Biripi man with a lifelong commitment to Culture, Country, community, and environmentally sustainable practices. With more than 30 years of experience as a self-employed business owner in the landscape construction industry, Shane brings extensive practical knowledge, leadership, and community-focused values to his role within the Wayne Weaver Foundation. Throughout his career, Shane has worked with a deep respect for the land, believing strongly in the importance of working in ways that honour Country, protect the environment, and preserve Cultural knowledge for future generations. His experience within landscape construction has been guided not only by professional excellence, but also by a commitment to culturally sustainable practices and responsible environmental care. As an Indigenous leader and community advocate, Shane brings a culturally informed perspective grounded in respect, integrity, and accountability. He is passionate about creating culturally safe spaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel supported, empowered, and connected to Culture. Shane is particularly dedicated to mentoring and supporting young people, helping create pathways for future generations through guidance, encouragement, and Cultural leadership. He also holds deep respect for Elders and recognises the importance of honouring and listening to the wisdom of old people within community and decision-making processes. Through his involvement with the Wayne Weaver Foundation, Shane contributes valuable leadership, Cultural understanding, and a strong commitment to community wellbeing, sustainability, and Indigenous-led development initiatives.