About the AFCC

The Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants operates as a not for profit organisation, with opportunities being created for members through resources, education, benefits and savings.

The AFCC is a national organisation with Celebrant members in each state and territory who perform a range of ceremonies for life celebrations.

Meet the AFCC National Committee

The association is managed by a volunteer National Committee members who run the daily activities of the association. Each National Committee member is responsible for a portfolio and manages its projects and programs throughout the membership year.

Anthony Burke

National President

Ant has been a Celebrant since 2009 and joined the National Committee in 2013. During his time, he has held the roles of State Representative for NSW, special projects like the Celebrant Closure Kit, Funerals Manager, Vice President and is currently the Website and Marketing Manager. He also holds the position of the AFCC National President. Ant enjoys being on the National Committee as he loves that he can contribute directly to the profession he works in daily. Ant is so thankful to have worked alongside so many amazing people who all love to give back. It is the friendships, the laughs and the great memories being created.

Email: President@afcc.com.au

Irene Harrington

Vice President & Celebrations Editor

Irene has been a Celebrant since 2008 and was elected to the National Committee in 2014. Irene has held the roles of Conference Convenor, Funerals Manager, worked on the Funeral Enrichment Program and various resources and is currently the Vice President and Celebrations Editor. She believes that being on the National Committee provides great learning opportunities for all members (including her). She also loves working with the wonderful AFCC members and the National Committee.

Email:
Vicepresident@afcc.com.au or Celebrations@afcc.com.au

Kathy Pynsent

National Secretary & Communications Manager

Kathy has been a Celebrant since 1991 and was elected to the National Committee in 2017. During her time on the National Committee she has held the roles of OPD and Communications Manager, has assisted with the Enrichment Program and is currently the National Secretary. Kathy enjoys being on the National Committee as it provides a feeling of inclusion, friendship and working together to provide relevant and meaningful benefits for all our members.

Email: secretary@afcc.com.au and communications@afcc.com.au

Susan Cade

National Treasurer & Website Assistant

Susan has been a Celebrant for 16 years and was elected to the AFCC National Committee in 2012. Sue has undertaken the roles of Website Assistant, Conference Committee and has held the position of AFCC National Treasurer since July 2012. What does Sue enjoy about the National Committee?…..EVERYTHING!

Email: treasurer@afcc.com.au and Website@afcc.com.au

Alison Burrell

Events Manager

Alison has been a Celebrant since 2005 and joined the National Committee in 2016. During Alison’s time on the National Committee she has held the roles Funerals Manager, Networking, Special Projects and now looks after the AFCC Events. Alison has always been involved with committees since she was in her 20s as she likes to be part of the decision making process. Alison feels one should always put their money where their mouth is. What keeps her going is the fun and friendships.

Email: Events@afcc.com.au

Julie Chesson

Ceremonies Manager

Julie was registered as a Celebrant in 2010 and has been on the Committee since 2013. During her time on the National Committee Julie has looked after the OPD, Marketing and Marriages Portfolios. Julie is currently the Ceremonies Manager. She loves being able to make a difference in whatever role she takes on and being part of a vibrant and proactive National Committee means that she can work with other Committee Members to help AFCC members from all over Australia.

Email: Ceremonies@afcc.com.au

Michaela Von Der Borch

Education Manager

Michaela was registered as a Celebrant in 2013 and joined the National Committee in 2023, where she is currently the Education Manager.

Michaela loves that being on the National Committee gives her the opportunity to meet other members who are just as passionate about being a celebrant and allows her to have a voice in the future direction of the AFCC. She appreciates the environment of collaboration, friendship and inclusion that is paramount in the group."

Email: Education@afcc.com.au

Rhonda McIver

Membership Manager

Rhonda became a Celebrant in 2008 and joined the National Committee in 2015. Since being on the National Committee, Rhonda has assisted with the Software Programs for members and has filled the role as Membership Manager for some years now.

Rhonda enjoys being on the National Committee as it is engaging with members and definitely working alongside an amazing professional group, who are passionate and caring but also like to have come fun.

Email: Membership@afcc.com.au

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