Our Board

Arguably one of Australia’s finest writers and directors, Tom Gleisner AO became involved with Challenge while working with radio station Triple M as part of the legendary D-Generation. Since 1991, he has played a pivotal role in the development and direction of the organisation.

Tom has held a number of roles on the Challenge Committee, with his most significant contribution being as Chairman. In this role, he oversaw the transition of Challenge from the Red Cross to an independent organisation and has guided its growth and governance ever since.

In recognition of his distinguished service to broadcast media as a writer, producer, actor and presenter, as well as his contribution to the community, Tom was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Tom’s enduring gift to Challenge has been his holistic approach across all aspects of management, providing clarity, direction and long-term stability. A writer, producer and occasional performer, he generously continues to use his talents to support Challenge, whether through hosting, storytelling or advocacy.

Angela Scaffidi AM established the independent change and communication consultancy SenateSHJ in 2002 and is joint Managing Partner for Australia and Head of Change.

In recognition of her significant service to the community through philanthropic and advocacy initiatives, Angela was recently appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

Having lost her mother and sister to cancer, Angela is a long-standing and deeply committed advocate for Challenge’s mission to improve the quality of life for children and families living with cancer. She has served on the Challenge Board since 2005 and currently holds the role of Vice-Chair.

Angela also established the Scaffidi Foundation Annual Scholarship, providing vital educational support to young people living with cancer.

Beyond Challenge, Angela is Chair of the Missing Persons Advocacy Network (MPAN), a member of the Broadmeadows Schools Network Advisory Board, and a Fellow of the Public Relations Institute of Australia.

Angela provides strategic advice and support to Challenge across staffing and communication matters.

Drew is a Chartered Accountant specialising in tax and advisory services for small to medium-sized businesses. He is widely respected for his work across the entertainment and sporting industries, where he has advised and represented some of Australia’s most accomplished athletes and performers.

Alongside his professional practice, Drew has built a strong record of governance and service. He has served as a Director on several high-profile boards and was the first person outside the golfing fraternity to be appointed to the board of PGA Australia. He spent seven years as Finance Director of the Royal Women’s Hospital Foundation and currently sits on the VMEC Finance Committee.

At Challenge, Drew is an integral member of the Committee, bringing not only deep financial expertise but a considered, steady approach to long-term thinking. His contribution helps ensure that care, generosity and ambition are matched with structure, sustainability and clarity – the kind that allows good work to endure.

George brings more than 25 years of experience in finance, including senior roles across a range of media networks. In 1995, he became an inaugural Board member of Challenge, taking on the role of Honorary Treasurer at a formative moment in the organisation’s life.

Widely respected by his peers, George has played a key role in establishing and guiding several successful businesses. He currently practises as a Financial Consultant and is the Managing Director and owner of Astra Apartments, a national serviced apartment operation.

George’s contribution to Challenge has been both practical and enduring. His deep budgetary expertise, paired with calm judgement and long memory, has helped steady the organisation through periods of growth and change – ensuring that compassion is always supported by care, foresight and financial discipline.

Craig and his family became involved with Challenge in 2003, when their seven-year-old son, Tom, was undergoing treatment for cancer. Like many families, their connection to Challenge began in a moment of vulnerability – and grew into something lasting. From the outset, Craig felt a deep responsibility to help make the path easier for other families walking the same road.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the commercial construction industry, Craig played a pivotal role in the renovation of the Challenge Family Centre, helping shape a space designed to be safe, functional and genuinely welcoming at a time when families need it most.

Craig joined the Challenge Board in 2012 and oversees the compliance of all Challenge facilities, ensuring they meet relevant building and safety regulations. Alongside this, he is deeply involved in Challenge fundraising, regularly rallying people across his community to support the organisation.

Craig’s contribution is marked by both practical expertise and personal commitment – a combination that continues to strengthen Challenge, not just in infrastructure and governance, but in spirit.