Dog Rescue Inc. Team

The Dog Rescue Team

Dog Rescue Inc. is powered by passionate and dedicated individuals who bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and empathy to our rescue missions.
United by a shared commitment to dogs (and cats!), each member contributes unique skills to our organisation. They work behind the scenes, ensuring that Dog Rescue Inc. stays true to its mission, remains financially and regulatory compliant, and operates effectively to maximise its impact on animals.

Dog Rescue Inc. is a registered Australian charity, operating since 2014. We are dedicated to rescuing and supporting vulnerable dogs, and we work independently with our own ABN and governance.

Our focus is on transparency, compassion, and accountability to the donors and communities who make our work possible.
Transparency note: Between 2014 and 2025, we were incorporated under a different name before changing to Dog Rescue Inc. to better reflect our mission and independence.
We have no current connection to organisations using that former name.

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Gemma Hebden

Mission Leader

With nearly a decade of non-profit experience, a deep passion for animal welfare and a relentless commitment to saving lives, Gemma leads Dog Rescue Inc. with compassion, determination and a vision for lasting change. As Mission Leader, Gemma oversees donor engagement and strategic partnerships, ensuring every dog we rescue receives the care, rehabilitation and love they deserve.

Driven by the belief that every life matters, Gemma works closely with our international rescue partners to expand rescue efforts, help desperate animals in need and advocate for the most vulnerable who have no one else but us.

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Andy Vennells

Chair

Andy is originally from the UK and has lived in Melbourne since 2014. He has been a Dog Rescue Inc. board member since 2018.

Andy is a computer engineer with over 17 years experience and in his spare time, he loves the outdoors and camping in the Australian bush. Andy enjoys being active, having various hobbies and organising events to bring the community together. He's passionate about people and animal welfare, and although he does not have time to own his own dog, he fosters dogs whenever he can.

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Sharon Elliot

Board Member

Sharon lives in Melbourne, where she is the CEO of Ethiopiaid Australia, as well as managing Ethiopiaid’s Canadian office.
Sharon is an experienced fundraiser, beginning her fundraising career with The Lost Dogs’ Home in Melbourne. She is passionate about the welfare of both animals and people and is mum to 4 children, 2 rescue dogs and 2 rescue cats.

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Lisa Heys

Secretary

Originally from the UK, Lisa recently moved to NSW with her two sons. She has a great passion for animals and is settling into her new life. Now working in a childcare setting, Lisa is thoroughly enjoying both her role and the Australian sunshine.

 

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Sarah Chambers

Treasurer

Sarah lives in New South Wales and has served on the board of Dog Rescue Inc. since 2015.

She is a retired Functional Healthcare Practitioner specialising in detoxification. Sarah brings a wealth of business experience to the charity and is responsible for overseeing the charity’s financials.

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Jackie Ross

Board Member

Jackie lives in Adelaide and has been on the board since 2018. Jackie has worked alongside many organisations for over 20 years, supporting homeless people to gain and maintain long-term housing. She has a rescue cat called Ripley, who is now 5 years old and rules the home.

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Leanne Young

Board Member

Leanne lives in South Australia and has been a member of the Dog Rescue Inc. board since 2020.

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© 2025 Dog Rescue Inc. ~ ABN 38 420 396 060 PO Box 159, Stroud, NSW 2425 Australia Privacy Policy

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