The Victorian Association of Performing Arts Centres (VAPAC) has announced the appointment of a new Executive Committee following its recent Annual General Meeting, marking a significant moment of renewal for the organisation.
Eli Dunlevie has been appointed as Chair of the VAPAC Executive Committee. With close to 25 years of experience across local government and not-for-profit arts organisations, and postgraduate qualifications in both Arts Management and Business, Eli brings deep operational and strategic expertise to the role. Currently Head of Production and Operations with the City of Kingston, she has been involved with VAPAC for close to a decade. “I am honoured to take on this role at such an important time in VAPAC’s journey,” she said. “Our focus remains clear: to support, connect and advocate for our members as we navigate this period of transition.”
Joining Eli as Deputy Chair is Simon Myers, Performing Arts and Venue Manager at the Swan Hill Performing Arts Centre and co-owner of Melbourne’s MEMO Music Hall. With more than 25 years spanning performance, venue management, producing and arts leadership, Simon brings both a regional perspective and a strong advocacy for arts participation across Victoria. Tim Blundell continues as Treasurer, drawing on over 25 years in the industry — from lighting technician to venue manager at The Round in Nunawading — alongside a long-standing commitment to encouraging the next generation of technical practitioners.
Rod Gilbert joins the Executive Committee as Secretary. As CEO of The National Theatre Melbourne, Rod brings more than two decades of experience across venue operations, production and performance, with a career that spans roles at Memo Music Hall and the City of Melbourne’s Flash Forward Creative Laneways initiative.
Nancy Milligan, currently leading the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre and Latrobe Regional Gallery at Latrobe City Council. Nancy brings over 20 years of experience in arts management, events and cultural leadership, including her oversight of the $65 million Red Earth Arts Precinct in Karratha.
Rounding out the new appointments are Danny Delahunty, Creative Director and CEO of Melbourne Fringe, also joins the board, contributing more than 15 years of experience across independent theatre, festival programming and sector leadership, with a particular focus on building sustainable pathways for artists. As well as, Stephen Henderson, Coordinator Creative Spaces with the City of Greater Bendigo, who brings specialist expertise in multi-venue operations, having overseen performing arts delivery across Ulumbarra Theatre, Capital Theatre and the Engine Room.
The board is further strengthened by the reappointment of David Griffith and Kathy Corcoran, both of whom bring valuable continuity and established expertise to the new committee. Along with Kristy Witmitz, Siena Balakrishnan, Justin Stephens and Treasurer, Tim Blundell who all continue their tenures.
The appointments come as VAPAC farewells three long-serving board members — Tammy Ryan, Bec Bennell and Shana Miatke — each of whom has completed their maximum term of service.
Tammy Ryan departs after serving as Chair since 2021, having first joined the board in 2018. Her tenure was defined by strategic clarity and a values-led approach that guided the organisation through the upheaval of COVID-19, a period during which she convened weekly member forums that became a vital anchor for arts workers and venues across the state. Her leadership consistently prioritised the development of future sector leaders, including through active participation in The Observership Program. Under her stewardship, VAPAC strengthened its profile, deepened its advocacy influence and built a more connected and resilient membership network.
Bec Bennell, who brought a technical and regional lens to her board work, is particularly proud of the role VAPAC played in providing clear, practical guidance to councils during the rapid changes of the COVID period. Her contributions helped ensure the distinct needs of smaller and regional venues remained visible within the organisation’s broader advocacy and information-sharing work.
Shana Miatke leaves behind a strong legacy of regional advocacy, having worked throughout her tenure to ensure venues outside metropolitan areas had a genuine voice at the table. Her involvement in Showcase selection panels, member events and major venue redevelopment projects helped build the practical connections and cross-sector relationships that strengthen VAPAC’s reach across Victoria.
With new leadership in place and a clear commitment to its membership, VAPAC moves forward with strong foundations and a fresh resolve to champion the vital role of the creative industries in communities across Victoria.
