Our Administration Team
Richard Hughes
Richard Hughes
Since taking on the CEO role in 2018, Richard has led the club’s operations, sponsorship growth, and strategic direction, strengthening partnerships, securing investment, and driving community engagement initiatives. Under his leadership, the Ipswich Jets have not only expanded their presence in elite competitions but have also established a structure that has helped create pathways for future generations of athletes, coaches, and staff. Richard holds an MBA with High Distinction from Victoria University, complementing his extensive experience in fundraising, marketing, and corporate strategy. His expertise in building strong revenue streams, engaging stakeholders, and fostering a culture of excellence has solidified his reputation as a forward-thinking sports executive. Passionate about sports, leadership, and community impact, Richard remains committed to driving the Ipswich Jets’ long-term success while ensuring the club remains a pillar of opportunity and inspiration for the next generation.
Holly Shadlow
Administrative Coordinator, Commercial & Partnerships
Holly Shadlow
Holly plays a key role in maintaining strong relationships between the club and its valued sponsors, ensuring every detail is meticulously managed. With a background in administration at a family law firm and nearly two decades as a hairdresser, she brings a unique blend of precision, organization, and people-first relationship management to the sports industry. Transitioning into the world of sport was a bold move, but Holly thrives in fast-paced environments where processes, planning, and communication are key. Her passion for building connections and ensuring seamless operations makes her an integral part of the club’s commercial and partnership success. A dedicated mother of two, Holly is no stranger to multitasking—whether it’s managing sponsorship agreements or keeping up with her little ones. As she deepens her understanding of the sports industry, she’s driven to grow within the club and continue making a lasting impact.
Nicole McPhee
Football Operations Manager
Nicole McPhee
Nicole is a familiar face within the Jets organization, having held various roles over the years. In 2025, she returns to the club as the Football Operations Manager, bringing with her a deep passion for the Jets, a love for coffee, and a keen enthusiasm for to-do lists. In her role, Nicole is responsible for organizing travel for the seven teams across Queensland and Papua New Guinea and ensuring the smooth coordination of both home and away games. She plays a critical role in player compliance, ensuring all athletes meet the necessary requirements to participate in games and works closely with the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) to ensure the club adheres to all regulatory standards. Additionally, Nicole coordinates key events throughout the season, including home game theme events such as Defence Force Appreciation Day and larger, signature events like the Season Launch and Presentation Night. She is also in charge of all the apparel designs for the 2025 season. Her dedication and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to the Jets organization.
Blake Mara
Pathways & Programs Manager
Blake Mara
Blake started with the Jets late in 2024 after a successful stint as the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Academy Coach & Pathway's Manager with the Western Clydesdales (2022-2024). Prior to his role with the Bulldog's Blake has worked both for the NRL and NSWRL in various development and pathway's roles spending time in South Burnett, Parramatta and Penrith. Alongside his career in coaching in administration he has also played the game, representing the Melbourne Storm in the NYC U20's as well as spending time in reserve grade with the SC Falcons and Parramatta Eels. Blake recently captained the inaugural QLD Country A-Grade side to a win over QLD City. In Blake's role he oversees our Pathways and Programs, creating future Jets. He works closely with the club's coaching and support staff to ensure our football department is aligned and striving for growth both on and off the field.
Dion Teaupa
Development Officer
Dion Teaupa
Dion joined the club as a Development Officer in January, adding a wealth of knowledge and experience to our development space. Dion's NRL playing career with the Rabbitohs is as recent as 2024, and he provides first-hand insight to younger players on what is required and what to expect if they aspire to make it as professional rugby league player. Alongside 4-NRL appearances Dion has also represented Tonga and won a NSW Cup and NRL State Championship with the Rabbitohs in 2023. Dion as Development Officer finds himself busy working with schools and local clubs within the Ipswich Community as well as mentoring the club's current junior pathway players. His favourite foods are fish sticks and hummus. Dion will also represent the club in Hostplus Cup in 2025.
Carol Hughes
Wellbeing Manager
Carol Hughes
Carol Hughes brings a holistic and empathetic approach to her role as Wellbeing Manager at the Jets. With a background in Health Science (Naturopathy) and a passion for psychology and mind-body health, Carol integrates natural wellness principles into her work. She is certified in yoga, vocal yoga, and children’s yoga, and currently supports children with developmental challenges as an Allied Health Assistant in speech therapy. Carol’s experience as a health and life coach, along with her experience supporting people in drug rehabilitation, has strengthened her skills in crisis management, goal setting, and emotional resilience. Having faced her own health challenges, including endometriosis and fertility struggles, she brings a deep understanding of the journey toward balance and recovery. Her connection to the Jets runs deep, giving her a personal understanding of the unique pressures athletes face. Carol is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing space for players—especially young women—where they feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive on and off the field.
Su’a Stephen Talavave
Wellbeing Manager
Su’a Stephen Talavave
Su’a held for over a decade the vitally important position of Cultural Liaison Officer for Pacific Islander Students at Ipswich State High School. Su’a has recently joined the Regional Office of the Department of Education Queensland, where he is now working as an Intensive Education Case Manager. However, this is only the start of his standing within his Pasefika community and his desire to improve their educational outlook. He is part of an advisory committee, the Māori and Pacific Island Education Network Queensland. Su’a provides key insight and guidance on cultural issues of significance to various schools and the Education Department in the Southeast. Outside of his educational footprint, Su’a is also a Senior Pastor at a local church. Bring spiritual guidance and counselling to many families in a rapidly growing congregation. He is a Committee Member for the TIK Network. This is a collection of churches from various denominations discussing current challenges and finding solutions for spiritual leadership. Across the wider sporting landscape, Su’a is also part of the staff for the International FETU Samoa Rugby League team, a powerhouse nation that has recently qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
Roger Eliu & Vili
BMD Head Coach
Roger Eliu & Vili
Roger and Vili began there coaching career in 2020, leading the Goodna women’s league team during the challenges of COVID-19. In 2021, his team reached the SEQ Holcim Cup Grand Finals, and in 2022, they claimed the SEQ Holcim Cup Championship. Roger’s and vilis leadership continued to shine in 2023, guiding the team to another SEQ Holcim Cup win and leading the Harvey Norman U19s Jets to 1st place. Roger and Vili also played a key role in the Queensland Samoa team’s victory in the 2023 QPICC, securing their first title in 10 years. Their success continued in 2024 with another SEQ Holcim Cup Grand Final appearance and his involvement in the development of the Harvey Norman U17s team. Roger’s dedication to developing players and his strategic coaching approach have made him a key figure in the Ipswich Jets Rugby League’s ongoing success.
Kacey Lewis
Operations Support Netball
Kacey Lewis
I am extremely passionate about the sport of netball and have worked in many facets of the sport over the years. My involvement started as a player and once my playing days were over, I moved into the coaching space and have been involved in coaching at many levels – club, school sport, association representative level and regional level. I love working with all levels of players, juniors, seniors and representative players and seeing players progress and improve their skills through their netball journey. Having worked in the administration field previously for many companies I am enjoying working with the team at Jets and looking after the netballers in my role as Operations Support Netball, this covers many facets – organising uniforms, administration with Netball Queensland, clinics and carnivals run by the Jets players and coaching staff and all other administrative tasks required for their season to run smoothly.