Our Committee
Debra Burden
Chair
BBus FIML FAICD
Debra commenced as CEO of selectability in February 2017 and has previously held CEO and executive management positions with Queensland Country Credit Union and Health Fund, 1300Smiles and Canegrowers Burdekin.
Her business management expertise has been recognised with the Qld Business Review Women in Business Award and the Queensland Telstra Business Women’s Award.
Debra has held board positions in numerous companies and is currently a Director of Townsville Hospital and Health Service, and until recently was a Director of North Queensland Primary Health Network and Deputy Chair of North and West Remote Health.
Maria James
Acting deputy
chair
Maria is the CEO of Mount Isa to Townsville Economic Development Zone (MITEZ), a regional development organisation representing seven local government areas across the North West corridor, together with members from the mining, transport, logistics and energy sectors. Through her role, Maria works closely with industry, government and regional stakeholders to support economic development, infrastructure investment and stronger regional connectivity across Northern Queensland.
A born and bred North Queenslander, Maria brings more than 14 years of experience from the Port of Townsville, where she developed extensive knowledge of trade, freight, supply chains and regional economic drivers. Passionate about the future of Northern Australia, Maria is a strong advocate for regional collaboration, strategic infrastructure and creating opportunities that support sustainable growth and long-term prosperity across the North West corridor.
Heidi Turner TREASURER
Heidi is a Townsville-based strategic communications and engagement specialist, Non-Executive Director and founder of Crystal Clear Public Relations.
With more than 30 years’ experience across Australia and Europe, Heidi has worked with government, industry and community organisations to support regional growth and engagement. She brings extensive experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, advocacy and regional development.
Heidi is committed to strengthening organisations, empowering communities and delivering practical, long-term outcomes and is a champion for the future of regional Queensland.
Anthony Curro
SECRETARY
Anthony is Chief Executive Officer at the CRC for Developing Northern Australia.
Based in Townsville, Anthony leads strategic initiatives and research that supports agricultural development and climate resilience across the North.
With a background in pharmacy and a family history in agriculture, he brings practical insight and deep regional knowledge.
He also serves as a Director on the North Queensland Dry Tropics Board.
Cr Peta MacRae
Peta MacRae is Mayor of Mount Isa and a long-time advocate for the North West.
With a background in education, business, and community leadership, she is passionate about regional development, liveability, and local opportunity.
Peta has served eight years on Council and chairs the Country Universities Centre Mount Isa. She holds an MBA and is an AICD graduate, committed to building a stronger, more vibrant Mount Isa for future generations.
Cr Pierina Dalle Cort
Pierina Dalle Cort is Mayor of Burdekin Shire and a long-time business owner with deep ties to the local community.
A former Councillor for 12 years, Pierina is a strong advocate for economic development, housing, and youth engagement.
She is a Justice of the Peace, an AICD graduate, and has held leadership roles with the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce and Local Government Women’s Association.
Pierina is proudly committed to her region’s future.
Rachel Cliffe
Rachel is the Regional General Manager for Northern Queensland at Telstra, with more than 30 years’ experience in regional leadership and infrastructure delivery.
A North Queensland local, she has worked closely with councils, industry, community organisations and government across the region.
Rachel previously chaired Jobs Townsville North Queensland and helped launch the Jobs North Queensland website to showcase regional industries, jobs and career pathways.
Neil O'Brien
Neil has led Gulf Savannah Development Inc. since 2023, supporting economic development across the Gulf Savannah region through advocacy and regional projects.
Prior to joining GSD, Neil spent more than 37 years in the Queensland public sector, including senior leadership roles spanning tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, biosecurity and corporate services. Neil has strong ties to the Gulf region and a long-standing commitment to regional sustainability and growth.
Kallum Cotterell
Kallum is a proud First Nations business owner with strong connections to North West Queensland and the lower Gulf region.
Based in Townsville, he brings experience across infrastructure, mining, energy, construction and community development.
Kallum has contributed to a range of boards and committees and is passionate about supporting sustainable regional growth, cultural inclusion and stronger opportunities for regional communities.