Dr Lisa Barnes has worked in tertiary institutions for more than 12 years – including at Newcastle University – with experience teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, face-to-face and online. She has taught in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Sweden and presented at conferences in Portugal, the United States and New Zealand.

Growing up on the Central Coast, Dr Barnes spent much time performing in eisteddfods, with the Central Coast Concert Band and in musical theatre. Her children attended the Conservatorium’s early childhood and Children’s Music Programs and have gone on to continue their music education into their teens and early adult years.

Formerly Head of School at the Avondale Arts and Business School Dr Barnes serves on the Advisory Board for the Australian Academy of Business Leadership and is Deputy Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee of the Australian Curriculum, and Assessment Reporting Authority. ACARA is an independent statutory authority responsible for the development of a national curriculum, a national assessment program, and a national data collection and reporting program that supports learning for Australian students.

She is also Treasurer of Coastlink, a not-for-profit youth disability provider and has a special interest in social responsibility, and financial and corporate governance of not-for-profit organisations, having been a director on numerous not-for-profit and Australian government boards.

Dr Barnes is a Fellow of the Certified Practicing Accountants Australia, a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Master of Business Administration and a Doctorate of Business Administration degree.

Digital marketing specialist Geraldine is a journalist with more than 25 years’ experience in newspaper and magazine publishing in the UK and Australia.

UK-born Geraldine has edited and written for a variety of publications including London Evening Standard, Belle Magazine, House & Garden, Sydney Morning Herald and Out & About with Kids. As Central Coast Conservatorium of Music’s Marketing Manager, Geraldine combines her passion for music and music education with her skills in digital marketing, social media, design and writing.

She has been involved with the CCCM for over 10 years, with both sons attending music lessons since the age of four. Her eldest son Xavier studied bassoon with Patrick Brennan, is a member of Central Coast Youth Orchestra and in 2024 was offered a place to study Bachelor of Music (Performance) at Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Geraldine is a member of Central Coast Philharmonia Choir.

Perth-born Kathleen moved to the Central Coast 11 years ago with her husband Paul, a professional musician and drummer. “We decided to make the move to the East Coast because there were more performing opportunities here,” said Kathleen, who is also now mum to two boys aged 14 and 16.

“It is thanks to Paul I have developed a greater understanding of music appreciation and the skills and talents required of professional musicians. So when I saw the role advertised here at the Conservatorium of Music my interest was piqued.

Kathleen previously worked in an administrative role at a Central Coast aged care facility. “I am looking forward to meeting more families and students and learning more about the Conservatorium,” said Kathleen

You can find Kathleen in the front office of the Con at 45 Mann Street from Monday to Thursday, where she will also be available on the phone to answer your questions.