Kelly was previously the Chief Executive Officer of South Hedland charity, Bloodwood Tree Association Inc. for six years until November 2022. Bloodwood Tree is a wholly Aboriginal-controlled organisation that provides services to those in need, disadvantaged, unemployed and affected by alcohol and drugs both in the Port/South Hedland and broader Pilbara area.
Kelly has made her life and career in the Pilbara, and most notably served as Mayor of the Town of Port Hedland for almost seven years until 2016.
An active and passionate environmental and sustainability practitioner, in 2003 Kelly founded the local Care For Hedland Environmental Association and after a year break, is back in the Chairperson role.
Kelly was appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia (General Division) in the King's Birthday Honours in June 2023, in recognition of her significant service to local government and to the community of Port Hedland.
Kelly was inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame in March 2018 in recognition of her lengthy contribution to the Pilbara environment and community. She has extensive business, facilitation and consultation experience and a keen interest in improving the liveability of our Town, social issues and sustainability. Kelly has a Bachelor Science (Environment)/Bachelor Forest Science (Honours) and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors' Program.
