Our People

Branches Connected As One

In Scouting, we are united by one purpose: inspiring the next generation of leaders. Across Australia, our Branch leadership teams provide strategic direction, operational leadership, and support to empower our Groups, Districts, volunteers, and young people. Connected as one, we strengthen our movement and create opportunities for every Scout to thrive.

Meet our Branch Chief Commissioners who Lead this shared vision across Australia.

Scouts ACT

With more than 35 years of dedicated service to Scouts ACT, Geoff Sheehan has contributed across a range of Leadership roles, including Committee member, Group Leader, Branch Commissioner, and now Chief Commissioner. In recognition of his outstanding service, Geoff was awarded the Silver Kangaroo in 2025.

As Chief Commissioner, Geoff is committed to keeping young people and volunteers at the heart of Scouting. His focus is on strengthening the support systems that enable Leaders to deliver exceptional Scouting experiences. Recognising the increasing demands placed on volunteers – particularly Group Leaders – Geoff is passionate about reducing administrative burden, restoring balance, and ensuring Leaders can spend more time delivering the fun, adventure, and learning that define the Scouting program.

Scouts NSW

Bel Howell took on the role of Chief Commissioner in April 2026. She’s been a member of Scouts NSW since 2007, firstly on the Group Committee when her children were youth members, quickly progressing through her Leader training across roles including Group Leader, then Scout Leader, as well as various Region and State roles. Most recently, Bel was Deputy Assistant Chief Commissioner (Strategic Support) and Region Commissioner (North Coast), with a focus on supporting senior volunteers to deliver the youth program across the state. Bel has also attended Australian Jamborees as Director of Marketing, Communications, Media and Merchandise with a focus to create life-long memories for participants. She’s a Youth Safe Advocate and is Mental Health First Aid certified.

Professionally, Bel has extensive experience in marketing, communications, organisational engagement, supporting programs, and cultural change. She’s currently the Organisational Engagement Manager with the University of Sydney, and has worked in multi-national technology and financial services organisations. Bel is a qualified Change Manager and has worked in both Asia Pacific and Global roles, including being selected from a global pool of professionals to work in Romania for a special assignment.

Scouts NT

Scouts NT Chief Commissioner Adrian Williams has over 25 years of Scouting leadership. Adrian was previously a Joey and Scout Leader in South Australia before relocating for work and supporting the Scouts NT in various Branch roles.

Adrian’s Scouting Journey first began as a Cub Scout in South Australia and later in the same Group, he achieved his Queen Scout Award. As an adult member, his Journey has taken him all over the world, attending events including Fijian Century Jamboree, the Asia Pacific Jamboree in Mongolia, JamboRi in Ireland, and the World Scout Jamboree at the Summit in addition to many Australian Jamborees. Adrian is extremely grateful for the personal growth from these experiences.

During a brief interstate relocation, Adrian continued his role as Branch Commissioner for Vocational Education and Training, showing his heart never really left the Territory. Within the Scouting Program, Adrian’s clear passion is canoeing. Holding formal qualifications, he’s a familiar face on the water where local youth always love spotting their Chief Commissioner paddling by.

At the core of Adrian’s Scouting is his appreciation for how the movement builds youth confidence. Deeply grateful for his own journey, he is dedicated to giving back by empowering the adult volunteers who help the young people of the Northern Territory achieve their full potential.

Scouts QLD

Geoff Doo is the Chief Commissioner of Scouts Queensland and is passionate about the delivery of a high-quality Youth Program, recognising that great program delivery is fundamental to achieving Scouting’s purpose. Geoff looks forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead and is committed to working alongside volunteers across Queensland to continue growing the positive impact of Scouting on young people and their communities.

Scouts SA

John Clarke is a passionate advocate for Scouting and the benefits it brings to the wider community – not only for young people, but also for the many adults who value the friendships, connection and sense of purpose that Scouting provides.

Revitalising Scouting is a key priority. He is committed to creating new pathways for young people to experience all that Scouting has to offer. John is excited to work alongside the volunteers, Youth Commissioners and professional teams growing Scouting across South Australia, bringing fresh energy, new events and activities, and a shared commitment to positive change.

Scouts TAS

Phil Harper is the Chief Commissioner of Scout Tasmania.

For over 35 years Phil has volunteered with Scouts Tasmania, starting as a parent driving their son to Cub Scouts, then through many Leadership roles to his current position of Chief Commissioner. He has managed the development of The Lea Scout Centre from a volunteer run campsite to a profitable income source for Scouts Tasmania employing 4 staff. It has transformed a standard Scout
Camp into a facility that benefits the whole Community and provides opportunities for School and Community Groups to conduct camps and activities in an affordable and Child Safe environment.

Phil is passionate about Scouting being a positive means of the development of youth where they are given opportunities to experience a wide range of outdoor activities. He sees youth undertaking adventurous activities as important factor to help develop self-confidence, the ability to take calculated risk and have fun.

Branch Chiefs_VIC_Daniella Taglieri OAM 02

Scouts VIC

Daniella Taglieri OAM, Chief Commissioner – Scouts Victoria. With decades of experience across youth program, events and leadership, Daniella is known for her calm, practical approach and her strong belief in empowering young people to lead with confidence.

A long-standing Leader and volunteer, Daniella has contributed at local, state and national levels, supporting safe, inclusive and adventurous programs for young people. She is passionate about building strong teams, listening to members and ensuring Scouting continues to grow and thrive in modern communities.

Scouts WA

Gavin Satie JP, Chief Commissioner – Scouts WA. With nearly four decades of continuous involvement in Scouting, Gavin has progressed through every youth section and held a variety of Leadership roles from Section Leader, Group Leader and Commissioner.

Professionally, Gavin is a Project Manager in the EPC sector and holds a Master of Project Management from Edith Cowan University. His Leadership style blends strategic thinking with a strong commitment to youth development and community impact. Gavin is passionate about building strong, supported teams, empowering youth to lead, and ensuring the Scouting program remains vibrant, relevant, and adventurous for the next generation.