Dennis Simmons
Chief Executive Officer and Board member

Dennis Simmons is a Noongar man with over 30 years’ experience teaching culture and working with Aboriginal youth and communities on Noongar Country. His work includes cultural education, mentoring Aboriginal employees, and delivering cultural awareness and Aboriginal Mental Health First Aid training across Western Australia, including in remote locations.

Dennis has worked with a range of community organisations and initiatives focused on healing, behaviour change, and the prevention of violence. He has previously served as Chairperson of the City of Wanneroo Reconciliation Action Plan Committee and, in 2017, represented Noongar people at the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Dennis holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and is also involved in natural resource management and the protection of sacred sites. His leadership is grounded in cultural authority, lived experience, and long-standing community relationships.

Doyen Radcliffe
Board Chair

Doyen Radcliffe is a Yamatji, Naaguja, Wajarri man from the Midwest region of Western Australia and a respected First Nations community development specialist. His work is grounded in culture, connection to Country, and supporting communities to shape their own futures.

Doyen brings extensive experience in community development, strategic collaboration, and culturally safe evaluation and advisory practice. He has worked across community, organisational, and policy contexts, supporting First Nations leadership, wellbeing, and inclusion.

In addition to his role with Maar Koodjal, Doyen leads advisory and consultancy work focused on culturally centred partnerships and community-led solutions. He also contributes to the broader professional field through leadership roles that strengthen culturally safe practice across sectors.

Salena Abdullah
Board member

Salena Abdullah is a Noongar Yamatji yorga (woman) and an Aboriginal artist. She brings creative and cultural perspectives to her board role and is committed to supporting positive futures for Aboriginal people through cultural practice, community engagement, and artistic expression.

Kate Merks
General Manager and Board member

Kate Merks is the General Manager of Maar Koodjal Aboriginal Corporation and a member of the board. She supports the organisation’s strategic direction, governance, and operations, working closely with the CEO and board to ensure programs and partnerships are delivered with care, accountability, and cultural respect.

Kate brings experience in organisational leadership and operations and supports Maar Koodjal’s people and systems so that culturally grounded work can be sustained responsibly over time.