Our team, our patrons
We form a multi-disciplinary team that works to ensure Indigenous knowledges thrive.
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Our team
| Name | Position | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professor Julie Andrews | Academic Director (Indigenous Research) | 03 9479 3147 | j.andrews@latrobe.edu.au |
| Dr. Michael Donovan | Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous | 03 9479 3645 | M.Donovan@latrobe.edu.au |
| Professor Ashley Franks | Professor | 03 9479 2206 | A.Franks@latrobe.edu.au |
| Ryan O'Callaghan | Research Project Manager | R.OCallaghan@latrobe.edu.au |
Our patrons
Our patrons are committed to supporting research on knowledge and Country in partnership with First Peoples. Read more about them below.
Dr Jill Gallagher AO
Chief Executive Officer, VACCHO.
Dr Jill Gallagher AO is a proud Gunditjmara woman and one of Australia’s most respected Aboriginal leaders. As Chief Executive Officer of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), she has been a tireless advocate for self-determination and improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
With decades of leadership grounded in lived experience and deep community connection, Dr Gallagher has shaped transformative policies and programs across Victoria and nationally. She was instrumental in establishing the National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Ageing & Aged Care Council (NATSIAACC), a peak body dedicated to the rights and wellbeing of Elders.
From 2017 to 2019, Dr Gallagher served as Commissioner of the Victorian Treaty Advancement Commission, guiding foundational steps toward treaty in Victoria.
Her enduring commitment to truth-telling, cultural safety, and community empowerment continues to inspire and drive meaningful change across generations.
Radek Sali
Light Warrior, Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Radek Sali is one of Australia’s most accomplished entrepreneurs and a visionary leader in the health and wellness sector. As the former CEO of Swisse Wellness, he transformed the brand into a global success, pioneering the use of aspirational branding and celebrity ambassadors in the wellness industry.
Radek is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Light Warrior and Wanderlust Head Co, and a passionate advocate for social impact. He supports a range of community initiatives through his roles as Chairman and Founder of the not-for-profit Lightfolk Foundation, Chairman of Igniting Change, and Director at the National Institute of Integrative Medicine. He also serves as a B Team Board member – Australasia and is a Campaign Cabinet member for La Trobe University.
A proud Honorary Alumni of La Trobe University, Radek continues to champion purpose-driven leadership, innovation, and wellbeing across business and community sectors.
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