Phil Ryan, President

Phil has called Dalby his hometown for his entire life. As the owner of Andersens Flooring, a local business, he has been deeply involved in the community for years. Phil has served on the franchise advisory council within the Andersens group for the last 5 years, which has given him a platform to contribute to the growth and success of the business. 

Phil's connection to the local chamber runs deep. He has witnessed firsthand the positive impact it can have on Dalby. Phil's family history with the chamber has underscored for him the immense benefits it brings to the community, driving him to actively participate in its endeavours. Phil takes pride in giving back to Dalby and helping local businesses thrive.

Believing firmly in the power of shopping locally, Phil wishes to work to bolster Dalby's own enterprises and industries as a means of strengthening the town as a whole.  In his personal life, Phil finds balance and rejuvenation through time spent outdoors enjoying hobbies like fishing, golfing, and football.

Nick Rogers, Vice President

Nick is the founder and director of Thrive Media Solutions, a family run digital marketing agency. With over 15 years of experience in the automotive industry, Nick has a proven track record of success in operations management, sales, marketing, and business development. He has expertise in negotiation, business planning, customer service, dealership standards, internal audit, and sales.

Nick's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for helping businesses thrive through digital solutions led him to start Thrive Media Solutions. Under Nick's leadership, the agency has experienced steady growth and an expanding client base. Nick's focus is on building long-term client partnerships by delivering results-driven and transparent digital marketing strategies that help businesses reach their fullest potential.

Stephanie Dillon, Secretary

Steph, the proud Owner/Operator of K Bun Carriages, embodies the spirit of our small local tourism business. Hailing from Clermont in Central Queensland, Steph's roots run deep in the agricultural sector, boasting over 15 years of hands-on experience, primarily within the beef industry. With an equal passion for horsemanship, Steph has been driving horses for just as long, infusing every carriage ride with expertise and grace.

For the past decade, Steph and the K Bun Carriages team have embraced the Western Downs as home, falling in love with the vibrant community and diverse business landscape of Dalby. It's here amidst the rolling plains and warm hospitality that K Bun Carriages has flourished, offering unforgettable experiences that showcase the heart and soul of Queensland's countryside.

Leah Rook, Board Member

In 2019, Leah started Dalby Driving School, which has expanded into Dalby Training Centre where they combine businesses to deliver "Nationally Recognized Training." This includes high-risk work licenses, emergency response training, legislative compliance training for the agriculture, gas, mining, civil construction, education sectors.

Leah married into a local farming family that has been in the Darling Downs Farming community for over 40 years. She prides herself on her dedication and love for the Dalby community.  Leah volunteers with various organisations in the community, including the PCYC BTC Program, Drought Angels, and the Rural Fire Brigade. 

When there is time to spare, you’ll find her with her family, keeping up with her children's school and extracurricular activities!

Samantha Body, Treasurer

Samantha Body is an enthusiastic member of the Dalby community who joined the BMO team for its strong sense of community and commitment to career development. 

Graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting and four years in the industry, Sam finds great satisfaction in helping clients maximise their cloud-based software, ensuring they get the most value from their tools. In her personal time, Sam enjoys social basketball, supporting local sporting events, brunches with friends, and is a keen poker player. She cherishes quality time with her partner, Kevin, and their two beloved dogs. Sam's blend of professional passion and personal interests reflects her vibrant and community-oriented spirit.

Jemma Bailey, Board Member

Jemma Bailey joined the BMO Financial Solutions team at BMO at the beginning of 2013 as a Paraplanner. In 2021 Jemma was promoted to Associate in BMO Financial Solutions.

Originally from Zimbabwe, Jemma went to James Nash High School at Gympie, excelling in economics and statistics.  She returned to Africa and gained valuable experience in the financial planning industry by undertaking an internship at Imara – a leading African Asset Management and Investment Banking company. She returned to Australia and graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Business Management in 2012. Jemma is excited about furthering her career within the financial services industry.

Outside of work, Jemma enjoys playing polo and spending time with husband James and her family.

Ben Tarrant, Board Member

Ben Tarrant is the owner and director of Darling Downs Precision, a precision agriculture business based in Dalby, Queensland. He grew up on a farm at Cecil Plains and attended state schools before completing high school in Toowoomba. Agriculture has always been an interest for Ben, and he completed an apprenticeship as a diesel fitter in Dalby. Ben worked for several companies before finding his passion for precision agriculture at Agknowledge Australia, where he worked for eight years before being offered the opportunity to buy the business, which is now known as Darling Downs Precision. Ben is married with two daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, working on his cars in the shed, and camping trips. Ben brings his background in agriculture and mechanics along with his passion for precision technologies to help farmers optimise their operations.

Sarah Heathwood, Board Member

Sarah Heathwood lives near Bell with her husband Luke and their three daughters, Mikayala, Ruby, and Byanca. With over 20 years of experience in the agriculture industry and Luke being a qualified boilermaker, they started their own business, Montana Welding Pty Ltd, in 2014. For the last 10 years, they have been serving the Western Downs region locals with mobile welding, sandblasting, and painting services.

Last year, Sarah also launched a hire business offering caravans, horse floats, and more. 

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys gardening, camping, and spending time with her animals. She is passionate about community involvement and has been part of the Jandowae Timbertown Festival Committee for over 10 years, actively involved in the Bell Show for 12 years, and served as treasurer of the Bell Swimming Club for 6 years. Sarah loves seeing the community come together and the rewarding impact it has on the Western Downs.