Meet our Staff
Lorna Riddle
Executive Director
lorna.riddle@marypotter.org.au
Lorna joined The Mary Potter Foundation in March 2012 - initially as Fundraising Manager and then as Operations and Donor Care Manager. She was appointed to the role of Executive Director in June 2019. Lorna's expertise and long history in not-for-profit organisations reflects her strong belief in the importance of inspiring community involvement. She is passionate about Mary Potter Hospice, but equally passionate about the extraordinary donors who support our Hospice patients and families so generously.
'I can't think of anything more rewarding than to help people facing the end of their life. It's an honour to serve our donors and help patients and families get access to the exceptional care that Mary Potter Hospice provides. I am so blessed to be a part of this.'
Mel Cushen
Patient & Family Support Coordinator
mel.cushen@marypotter.org.au
Mel joined The Mary Potter Foundation in November 2021, initially as Fundraising and Admin Coordinator, then as Donor Care Coordinator and now as Patient and Family Support Coordinator. Coming from a hospitality and not-for-profit management background, Mel loves working with innovative teams to create meaningful experiences for people.
"It is truly an honour to do what I do. I get to hear the stories of someone's extraordinary life, and support them by giving them the choice of how they spend their final days. Whether it's an access-cab visit home or to the beach one last time, a spoonful of the cake that reminds them of their childhood or throwing an AFL Grand Final Party like they would have done if they were home. I don't say it lightly when I say it is a privilege."
Mel Hondrovasilopoulos
Fundraising & Event Coordinator
mel.hond@marypotter.org.au
Mel joined The Mary Potter Foundation in January 2023 as the Fundraising & Event Coordinator. With years of experience organising charity fundraisers as passion projects alongside her full-time corporate role, Mel decided to follow her heart into the not-for-profit sector.
"I’ve been introduced to a whole new world during my time with the Foundation. Amidst the heartbreak, there’s an overwhelming kindness, and the generosity of our donors continually leaves me in awe. It’s an honour to organise events that demonstrate to families just how supported they are - something I will always cherish."
Robyn Nash
Admin & Fundraising Coordinator
robyn.nash@marypotter.org.au
Robbie joined the Foundation team in March 2022. With a strong background in finance, contact & event management, advertising, and the not-for-profit sector. Robbie brings all round experience and a can-do attitude.
"Having had first-hand experience with end of life care in a Hospice setting for a family member, I believe that everyone is entitled to the best quality care and dignity at the end of their life. Everyone has a story to tell and that we should listen more. It is an honour to be able to meet patients and their loved ones. It is the little things that count during these times, a smile or a wave, or simply offering a cake from the Hospice kitchen."
