Nominees for Director
Andrew Armitstead
BBus
I have served as a Board Member since 2016. I have lived in Penrith for over 39 years and worked across Western Sydney throughout my career. Currently, I am CEO of CivicRisk Mutual, a not-for-profit insurance and risk mutual for 28 local councils. Previously, I spent 20 years in governance and risk roles with Parramatta and Fairfield Councils. My expertise includes meeting processes, administration, risk, and governance. I am committed to serving our members and working with the Board to deliver our long-term strategic plan. I encourage all members to attend the AGM and vote.
James Bentley
I’ve worked in telecommunications since completing my HSC at St Dominic’s College, Penrith. Currently I lead a team of 8 Area Managers and 138 staff at NBNCo, overseeing all field activities. I support the General Manager in driving consistent practices, customer satisfaction, productivity and compliance. Appointed a Justice of the Peace in 2012, I continue serving my community. I bring strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills, and am committed to continuous improvement. I look forward to contributing to the Board with dedication and integrity.
Peter Dries
I have been a Director of the Henry Lawson Club since 2017. With over 45 years’ experience in the shopfitting industry, I bring strong skills in project management, budgeting, and delivering quality projects. My expanding expertise in commercial operations, risk management, and organisational development enhances my contribution to the Board and the members. I am dedicated to supporting the effective running of a successful, family-friendly Club. I encourage all members to attend the AGM and vote for your Board to ensure the Club’s continued growth and success.
Matthew Dwyer
I have been a board member of The Henry Sports Club since November 2024. It is an exciting time to be a board member, watching the changes happen within the Club. I look forward to helping the Club continue to grow and support its members and local community. The growth of the Club and the long term viability of the Club is important to me, to give our members and locals a place they feel safe and welcome at all times.
Sari Erasmus Hickey
Active Henry Lawson Club member since 1976, former Director, and still dedicates a lot of time and effort in promoting patronage through conducting Theatre workshops for U3A, contributing actively as a life member of The Henry Lawson Theatre, directing theatre productions, Penrith Eisteddfod events, community involvement, working with Penrith Library, archiving Q Theatre’s collection and John Upton, founder of the Club’s, writing. Skills: Administration, production of community events and effective teamwork fit well in governance of a licensed club. Positions: Acting Factory, Penrith Eisteddfod, Treasurer, Speech and Drama Teachers Association of NSW, supporting understanding of financial management.
John Fowler
Have a son and daughter, and 4 grandchildren, retired, volunteer full time for Brothers Penrith JRLC Inc. Successful 45-year career in Banking/Finance with Bank NSW/Westpac, and the Commonwealth Bank, holding a number of manager positions and in one role in charge of in excess of 80 personnel, experienced with reading and analysing documentation, and AML/CTF policies with the CBA where I also gained experience with governance and compliance requirements, which is also applicable with Brothers as they are a registered corporation. Will undertake any training required.
Melissa Jerzyna
LREA
Since joining the Henry Board in 2019, I’ve been proud to help drive the significant progress we’ve achieved; progress built on vision, accountability, and collaboration. I’m now seeking re-election to safeguard that momentum and continue building on the strong foundation we’ve laid. My approach is financially responsible, member-focused, and grounded in transparency, good governance, and with the long-term interests of all Members in mind. If re-elected, I will remain focused on strengthening our Club, enhancing member services, and supporting its strategic growth.
Adrian King
I have proudly lived and contributed to the Penrith Local Government Area for over 20 years. My connection to the community is strong, and I value the welcoming spirit of our local Club, where members are known personally and treated with genuine care. The Club’s focus on community engagement and youth development aligns with my values. I am passionate about initiatives that empower young people and build stronger local ties. With a sound understanding of board responsibilities, I am committed to ethical, informed decisions. I bring collaboration, accountability and a community-first mindset to ensure the Club thrives for all members.
Janet King
I have served as a Board Member since 2019 and have lived in Penrith since leaving high school. The growth of local housing estates has increased community involvement in arts, sports, and recreation, aligning with my passion and The Henry Sports Club. As a long-term member, I am dedicated to supporting the Club’s growth, activities, and members. Strong governance, financial management, and community focus are vital for the Club’s future. With my experience in small business and financial controls, I’m committed to contributing to these foundations. I encourage all members to attend the AGM and vote for the Board.
Vincent Le Breton OAM
Retired from teaching in 2017. Community involvement: Volunteered for several sporting committees in the area including cricket, rugby leagues, netball and tennis. Currently vice president of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. Joined The Henry Sports Club Board in 2015. Initial goal was to bring the Club out of administration, and this was achieved within 18 months. Recent achievements: Overseeing the Club’s $.4.4m renovation which was done on time and on budget. Life membership of The Henry Sports Club in 2024.
Stephen Roberts
JP, BBus, GradDipVet
I joined the Henry Board during one of the most challenging times in our Club’s history – while it was in administration. The progress we’ve made since then shows what can be achieved through vision, accountability, and teamwork. I’m proud to have contributed to that turnaround and am seeking re-election to protect and build on that success. I bring a financially disciplined, member-focused approach and a commitment to transparency, strong governance, and continuous improvement. I always act in the long-term interests of all Members. If re-elected, I’ll continue working to strengthen our Club, enhance services, and support strategic growth.