Regina Thompson

CHAIR

With senior leadership experience in the Department of Education, Regina’s expertise lies in developing and leading teams, providing pedagogical leadership and professional learning to support the development of staff. With an ambition for understanding neuro science in young children, she enjoys expanding her knowledge in the area of child development. Educating for over 30 years, she is a committed advocate for quality early learning and investment in the earliest years of a child’s life, and holds a leadership position with the B4 Coalition, supporting Tasmanian children, families and communities.

Eric Gooi

VICE CHAIR & SECRETARY

Eric was born and raised in Penang, Malaysia. He completed his Bachelor of Laws in 2008 and Master of Employment Relations in 2014. He has over 13 years of administrative and management experience, including Fair Work advisory, HR and payroll service and implementation. Eric often assists with detailed policy reviews, governance matters and considers access to high quality early learning and care to be essential to developing Tasmanian children into the leaders of the future.

Sam Simpson

TREASURER

Sam is a dynamic and strategic leader, currently serving as the General Manager of Dental Operations at St Lukes, a Tasmanian-owned private health company.

With an extensive background in strategic planning, project management, business development, finance management, and experience in the Department of Health, Sam brings a wealth of expertise to Thrive. He leverages his professional experience to support Thrive’s governance and strategic decision-making processes, focusing on delivering exceptional staff experiences. His commitment ensures high-quality services, safety, and personal growth, providing evidence-informed care that meets the needs of children, families, and the Tasmanian community.

Elizabeth Daly OAM

BOARD MEMBER

Retired Educator, Elizabeth, has held positions of Principal, Senior Superintendent Early Years, Senior Superintendent North and Director of Education. She has acted as Commissioner for Children and Young People, as well as Co-Chair of B4 Coalition. She chaired UTas Alumni organisation for 10 years; served on UTas Governance Council and chaired the Tasmanian Early Years Foundation. Passionate about Early Learning, she believes every child has the right to access quality education and care. Her highly respected voice is a strong advocate for the industry.

Karen Wielstra

BOARD MEMBER

Possessing over 20 years’ experience as a teacher, Karen holds the current position as Business Manager and Executive Secretary at John Calvin School. “My passion is education and the well-being of all students.” As a business owner as well, she finds herself involved in real-world issues and identifies the affect this has on the wellbeing of young people in our care.  She has qualifications in Leadership, Copywrite Law, SASS, Board organisation, WHS and Governance and Risk Management, as well as expertise in bookkeeping, policy and procedure and HR management.

Libby Fegan

BOARD MEMBER

With an extensive background in health and management, Libby is a proven leader who brings a unique perspective to Thrive. She combines her clinical expertise with a passion for early learning education and care. Currently completing a double Masters in Public Health and Business Administration, Libby is dedicated to strengthening Thrive’s workforce by cultivating the skills and attributes needed to deliver sustainable, high-quality education and care services across Tasmania.

Specialising in decision-making and strategy development, Libby uses her experience to amplify the value of early years education and care in Tasmania. Her forward-thinking leadership ensures that Thrive continues to expand its impact, delivering high-quality services to children, families, and the broader community while building a sustainable future for the organisation.

Simon Wood

BOARD MEMBER

Simon is managing director of a commercial and industrial refrigeration manufacturing company, he has over 37 years of experience in field of mechanical engineering and for the last 20 years has led businesses through strategic change for long term stability and profitability.

Having travelled around the world with work to understand diverse cultures and working environments he has a passion for implementing robust processes and continuous improvement along with developing and fostering respectful workplaces.