Our Team

Samantha Bourke is the Circular Economy Lead at the Circular Economy Living Lab, bringing over 12 years of experience in environment and sustainability across both the public and private sectors.

With expertise in circular economy strategy, environmental management, resource efficiency and waste auditing. Her project experience spans in infrastructure, renewable energy, urban development, grants, programs and waste management.

Samantha is passionate about advancing Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Region in sustainability and circular economy through innovation, trials and implementation.

Samantha is dedicated to driving collaboration, innovation and implementing circular economy principles within industry, business, research, government and community. Creating solutions and lasting environmental, social, and economic initiatives for Lake Macquarie and the wider Hunter Region.

Tim is a high-level manager, governance and performance driven leader with over 18 years’ experience in both public and private sectors.

Tim’s purpose is to strategically lead high performing teams that deliver outstanding results. Being driven by continual improvement through collaboration and innovation opportunities, Tim engages with and supports teams to connect strategic objectives to focus on proactive initiatives utilising technology as well as building skills within the team to achieve operational excellence.

Tim has worked in Environmental Consultancies, in lead roles, both locally and on a National level. Tim holds a Masters Environmental Management, Bachelor of Science, Earth and Environmental, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is currently completing a Masters of Business Administration.

Tim has extensive experience in strategic and operational environments, most recently as the Manager of City Works, responsible for many operational staff working across diverse areas of City Construction, City Infrastructure, City Presentation and City Buildings and Support. Prior to City Works, Tim held the position of Environmental Systems Manager, where he actively engaged in collaboration with stakeholders, providing strategic leadership to enhance and protect the community and manage environmental risks sustainably.

Prior to working at Lake Macquarie City Council, Tim worked as a consultant focused on environmental and planning projects helping clients successfully gaining project approval across all levels of Government. Tim has led the delivery of projects through the planning and implementation phase, working across industries including infrastructure, mining and quarrying, state and local government. Tim has extensive experience in negotiation and influence with local, state and federal government agencies.

Angela is a seasoned Executive Assistant and Personal Assistant with a proven track record of success across diverse industries, including mining, banking, and telecommunications.

She brings a wealth of experience, adaptability, and professionalism to every role, consistently supporting executives with efficiency and discretion.

A proactive and strategic multi-tasker, Angela’s career has been dedicated to supporting executives and boards in achieving seamless and effective governance.