Dr Scott Davis is a respected health and regional development leader with over 25 years’ experience across Northern Australia, the Pacific, and Asia. He is the Executive Director of the Tropical Australian Academic Health Centre (TAAHC), where he builds partnerships that translate research into real-world health outcomes for northern communities.

Scott is also the Founder and Managing Director of Well Balanced Care, providing innovative allied health services in rural and remote areas. He serves as a Director of the Cooperative Research Centre for Northern Australia (CRCNA), contributing to research that benefits the region.

A former Deputy Chair of the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS), Scott has extensive experience in governance, collaboration, and community-led service design. His work focuses on improving access to quality healthcare and empowering local communities.

Originally from Tully, Scott and his partner Tony are proud to call Far North Queensland home. They are active in local organisations and passionate about sailing, fostering connection, and giving back to their community.

“COUCH has an important role in supporting people and their families and carers recovering and living with cancer. Based on the belief that community coming together can take action where government often struggles. It was an honour to be nominated to the role of Chair, and privilege to be able to serve my community in this way.”

Email: chair@couch.org.au

Vanessa holds dual qualifications in law and town planning and is a partner at national law firm Sparke Helmore. She has led the firm’s regional Planning, Environment and Sustainability Practice since 2018 and became the national practice leader in 2021.

Before joining Sparke Helmore, Vanessa was the Managing Director of a Cairns-based law and town planning firm. She has extensive experience on large-scale master-planned projects and has advised local and state government, developers, and publicly listed companies across Queensland.

Vanessa is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Company Directors Course. She is a former Deputy Chair of Ports North and Chair of the Ports North Human Resources Committee. Vanessa has also chaired the JUTE Theatre Company and contributed to multiple not-for-profit boards.

Her expertise in law, planning, and governance drives strategic leadership and sustainable development in Northern Queensland.

“I am passionate about regional Queensland and particularly the local community where I live and work. Regional cities such as Cairns face a number of challenges not even imagined by their city peers including a lack of resources, infrastructure and access to quality health services for people living with cancer. It’s a privilege to work with the COUCH Board and staff in supporting local people and providing a much-needed local service.” 

Vicky is a chartered accountant with over 15 years’ experience in healthcare management. She is passionate about ensuring communities have access to quality healthcare choices.

Vicky is the Chief Financial Officer and Commercial Manager for the IMS Group. She brings extensive expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and cash-flow management.

She has held leadership roles in not-for-profit organisations, including Cairns Regional General Manager of Holy Spirit Care Service. There, she oversaw the construction and commissioning of an 86-bed residential aged care facility and 52 independent retirement living units.

Vicky also served as Chief Financial Officer for the Northern Queensland Primary Healthcare Network. She managed commercial compliance and the acquittal of Commonwealth primary healthcare funding contracts.

Her strong financial leadership and healthcare experience support sustainable growth and ensure vital services reach communities across Northern Queensland.

“I have a passion for contributing to community-based organisations that are committed to improving the community that we live in. As a local charity, COUCH has achieved significant improvement for the Cairns community, and I am honoured to be a part of its future.”

Michael Woodward was born in Cairns, the eldest son of Pip and Charles Woodward, founders of COUCH and the CaPTA Group of tourism companies. He earned a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Queensland.

Michael has over 22 years’ experience in the family business. He began as group accountant and progressed through various management roles. One of his standout projects was overseeing the construction and launch of the Cairns ZOOM attraction.

Following the success of Cairns ZOOM, Michael was promoted to Operations and Projects Director for The CaPTA Group. His work focuses on delivering innovative projects while maintaining strong operational oversight.

Within COUCH, Michael serves as secretary and is a member of the Fundraising and Marketing Committee and the Risk, Finance and Governance Committee. He brings a wealth of experience from previous committee roles and a deep commitment to community engagement.

Michael lives in Cairns with his wife Darlene and their two rescue dogs, Theo and Mya. He is passionate about giving back to the community, a value he inherited from his parents.

“Since becoming part of the COUCH committee, I have come to appreciate the immense efforts of this and previous committees. I am extremely proud of the efforts Mum and Dad have put in to lay the groundwork for the organisation COUCH is today and look forward to contributing to COUCH’s continuing success. I am particularly excited by the events and fundraising aspect of my role, as COUCH has a history of attracting entertaining, motivating and inspiring people.”

Toni is a project manager for Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS), overseeing accreditation of all Primary Health Care Centres in the HHS. She has extensive experience in cancer care, both in Australia and the UK.

Before joining TCHHS, Toni worked with Radiation Oncology Queensland (now part of Icon Group). She played a key role in establishing cancer care centres in Toowoomba and later led the team opening Radiation Therapy Services at the Liz Plummer Cancer Centre in Cairns.

Toni has overseen the strategic development, design, construction, and operational commissioning of multiple cancer centres in Australia and overseas. She led Icon Group to become the first Australian healthcare company to enter the Chinese market.

Originally from Mackay, Toni is a strong advocate for regional healthcare. She is passionate about improving access to cancer services for communities outside metropolitan centres. Her experience aligns closely with COUCH’s mission to support people living with cancer in regional settings.

Toni holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Radiation Therapy, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Project Management.

Daniel is an experienced CEO and director with over 15 years in sports management and the tourism industry, following a career in defence. He was the Group CEO of AJ Hackett International, where he led diverse teams, developed strategic plans, and created innovative experiences for customers.

Daniel thrives on new challenges and enjoys connecting with people across business and the community. His experience in management consulting, international business, and community-focused clubs has honed his skills in strategic planning, accountability, and efficient organisation.

He serves as Chair of the Fundraising and Marketing Committee, bringing strong leadership and vision to COUCH.

Daniel is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Company Director Course and holds a Master of Applied Finance.

“Community focused organisations are the backbone of a healthy society and it’s a privilege to contribute to COUCH. The organisation and the amazing COUCH team are an inspiration, creating a positive impact, a sense of belonging, and a long-lasting legacy of kindness.”

Nick Loukas is a Cairns-based pharmacist, business leader, and community advocate. He has owned and developed several pharmacies across Cairns and Smithfield, including the V Pharmacy, Alive Pharmacy, and Vitality Pharmacy Warehouse brands.

Nick is currently the Managing Director of Vitality Pharmacy Warehouse Group, with business interests in Cooktown, Cairns, and Gladstone. He has a strong commitment to healthcare, business growth, and supporting local communities.

He also serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at JCU College of Medicine and Dentistry and has been Chair of the Pharmacy Advisory Committee since 2011. Nick has held several board roles, including Chair of North Queensland Primary Healthcare and President of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce.

Nick holds a Bachelor of Business, has studied at Harvard Business School, and is a fellow of the Australian College of Pharmacy Practice and Management. He is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Outside work, Nick is Chair and director of the Tour of the Tropics Bicycle Race and enjoys cycling, triathlons, and spending time with his family. He is passionate about leadership, growing businesses, and contributing to the Cairns region.

“COUCH is such a wonderful organisation that truly makes a difference to people’s lives at a time when they need it most. I am proud to become a director and contribute to the success of COUCH and see it as an honour to be able to positively contribute to our community.”

Manu is a passionate leader in health service management, with experience across Western Australia and Queensland. He believes his purpose is to make the world better for others and is committed to delivering quality healthcare for those who need it most.

Manu is currently the Executive Director of Strategy and Investment at Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS). He manages a diverse portfolio, including infrastructure and the Care Coordination Service Centre, turning strategic plans into practical solutions that benefit both staff and patients.

Previously, Manu worked with the Western Australian Department of Health and WA Country Health Service. These roles strengthened his expertise in public health services and deepened his commitment to supporting healthcare teams.

He is dedicated to developing happy, skilled staff and creating workplaces where teams can thrive while delivering excellent care to the community.

Manu holds a Master of Business Administration, specialising in project management, asset management, and finance. His experience and vision drive improvements in healthcare access and quality across regional Australia.

“Driven by a desire to give back to the community where he lives and works, Manu joined the COUCH Board to help improve access to care for people living with cancer in Cairns and surrounding regions.  Manu believes health care is one of the most impactful ways to contribute to community wellbeing and is proud to support the vision of COUCH.”