Meet the Committee

President

Peter has lived in Palm Cove for four years after many years as a visitor drawn to our village’s natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and strong sense of community. He brings extensive experience in civil design, major government planning projects, and later as Director of Operations for Government shared ICT services.

With over 40 years of small business ownership, Peter has developed strong expertise in strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and business management — skills he now applies to advocating for Palm Cove.

As founding President, Peter is committed to ensuring residents have a real voice on key issues such as:

• The Lot 100 eight-storey resort proposal
• Traffic impacts from ReefsEdge Waterpark
• Long-term plans like Towards 2050 and State Tourism 2045

Outside PCA, Peter enjoys beach walks, cycling and supporting local businesses.

Secretary

Gary Kerr, our Secretary, who brings decades of leadership experience in regional economic development, local government, tourism, and community organisations.

Gary is known for his authentic, ethical leadership style and his strong “can-do” approach. He has held CEO and Director roles across regional development bodies, peak business groups and local governments, and is widely respected for his skills in community engagement, team building and mentoring — including supporting many women into leadership roles.

His qualifications include a Bachelor of Business (La Trobe University) and postgraduate studies in management, supported by extensive leadership accreditations.

Gary’s community involvement includes serving as President of Tourism Palm Cove, TTNQ Board Member, and President of the Capricorn Coast Business Alliance.

We are thrilled to have Gary’s experience and commitment helping guide Palm Cove Alliance.

Treasurer

Introducing Dale Middleton, Treasurer of Palm Cove Alliance and a recently retired senior executive with nearly 40 years' experience in complex system integration, business transformation and strategic advisory roles.

Dale has held major leadership positions, including Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers and senior roles at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture), where he specialised in guiding organisations through significant change and working closely with C-suite leaders in high-profile environments.

His deep professional expertise, calm approach and strong financial acumen make him a valuable asset to PCA as we build a stable, transparent and community-focused organisation.

Committee Member

Nicky is a senior marketing and communications leader with more than 30 years’ experience across government, private sector and community organisations. She has led major national campaigns and strategic projects for organisations including the AMA, Engineers Australia, Defence, Lifeline and the Australian Government.

Known for her clarity, strategic insight and ability to navigate complex policy environments, Nicky has shaped high-impact initiatives such as the Closing the Gap communications framework, The Line social-marketing campaign, and national communications for mental-health and Indigenous-affairs programs.

A Palm Cove homeowner and passionate community advocate, Nicky is an avid cyclist, completed the Port Douglas Gran Fondo twice and can't wait to see the extension of the Northern Beaches leisure trail. 

Committee Member

Dr Deborah Monaghan is a specialist medical practitioner with extensive executive experience in Australia and the US, including overseeing major cancer-trial programs and leading strategic partnerships in large health organisations.

A Palm Cove visitor for 30+ years and homeowner for over a decade, Deborah has chaired multiple Bodies Corporate and currently serves as Chair of The Beach Club, Palm Cove.

Deborah played a key role in the community campaign opposing the Lot 100 development and is widely respected for her expertise in strata law, governance and advocacy.

Fluent in several languages, Deborah brings deep community connections, legal understanding, and a passion for safeguarding Palm Cove’s future.

Founding Member

We are proud to introduce Malcolm Bean, a founding member of Palm Cove Alliance and co-owner of The Reef House Adults Retreat, one of Palm Cove’s most iconic boutique luxury properties.

With over 37 years’ experience in hotel and resort management, development and hospitality investment, Malcolm is a nationally respected leader in Australia’s luxury tourism sector. Since becoming a partner in The Reef House in 2011, he has positioned the property as a nationally recognised five-star adults retreat, earning multiple Queensland Tourism Awards and national accolades.

Malcolm’s expertise spans hotel development, marketing, sales strategy, business planning and executive leadership. His career includes senior leadership roles with Rydges Hotels & Resorts and ownership of award-winning luxury properties across Australia.

Deeply invested in Palm Cove’s success, Malcolm brings invaluable tourism passion, insight and strategic perspective to Palm Cove Alliance, helping ensure our village remains a premium, sustainable and truly remarkable destination.

Founding Member

We’re pleased to introduce Jo McDonald, a founding member of Palm Cove Alliance, who brings more than 30 years’ experience in financial management, governance and operations across large, complex organisations.

Jo is a highly experienced professional with deep expertise in financial management, risk reduction, governance, strategic planning and operational delivery. Her career spans senior roles and consultancy work with organisations including PricewaterhouseCoopers, Telstra, Colonial First State, VicRoads and the Transport Accident Commission, where she has overseen major budgets, large contracts and complex governance systems.

Known for her ability to bridge finance and operations, Jo is respected for creating clarity, accountability and strong systems in challenging environments. She brings a strong community focus, extensive committee experience, and a passion for protecting local character and liveability.

Palm Cove Alliance is fortunate to have Jo’s depth of experience and steady leadership as a foundation of our organisation.