About us

Farzian Zainal

As a fourth-generation Christmas Islander, Farzian is the first local to be appointed Administrator of the Indian Ocean Territories. In this capacity, she also serves as Chair of the Indian Ocean Territories Regional Development Organisation.

Farzian has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, having served as a Shire of Christmas Island Councillor and on the boards of several local development and industry organisations. A qualified mechanical engineer and accomplished project manager, she is passionate about elevating local voices and strengthening economic outcomes for the territories.

Carolin Buncle Diesner

Carolin brings a unique mix of experience and energy to her role as Director of the Indian Ocean Territories Regional Development Organisation. Her background spans policy, research, education, and health, giving her both a broad perspective and a strong commitment to building thriving communities.

She has held policy and project roles with the federal government, contributing to national initiatives in agriculture, legislation, and grant management, while developing strong relationships across government, industry, and community. Carolin has also worked as a lecturer and teacher in Australia and Switzerland, and in the health and wellbeing sector as a Bowen therapist and fitness professional.

Outside of work, Carolin loves travelling and adventuring with her family, exploring nature, and discovering new places. Always curious, always learning.

Stephanie Lai

Stephanie brings a strong people-focused background to her role as a committee member of the Regional Development Organisation on Christmas Island. With experience in Human Resources and a deep commitment to community development, she is dedicated to supporting the island’s growth, wellbeing, and creating opportunities that empower the next generation.

Thomas Battcher

Thomas brings a strong passion for the unique and remote environments of the Indian Ocean Territories, and is committed to contributing wherever he can to create positive outcomes for the wider community.

With a background in horticulture, environmental management, and waste management, he has spent several years on Cocos working to improve processes and achieve sustainable outcomes. His dedication to protecting and enhancing the natural environment reflects his broader commitment to supporting the long-term wellbeing of the islands and their communities.

Tracey Krepp

Tracey has called Christmas Island home since 1992 and is deeply connected to its community and way of life. Together with her husband, she owns and operates an electrical company that contributes to the island’s infrastructure and essential services. She also works as a school bus driver and guest service agent at the airport, roles that allow Tracey to support local families and visitors alike.

She and her husband have two children and two granddaughters, who bring joy and purpose to her life. Tracey is passionate about the future of Christmas Island, its sustainability, and the wellbeing of the people who make it such a unique and special place. Her long-standing commitment to the island, through both her professional and personal involvement, reflects her dedication to helping the community thrive.

Amy McDonald

Amy is a dedicated nurse with a strong connection to the Indian Ocean Territories, having lived and worked on both Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands since 2013.

Through her years on the islands, she has developed a deep understanding of the unique health challenges and strengths within these remote communities. Amy is passionate about building local health capacity, empowering residents through skills development and health education, and supporting the delivery of sustainable, community-driven services.

Sarah Coote

With over 22 years in tourism and 17 years leading marketing for destinations and operators, Sarah is known for combining strategic focus with creative execution to drive real, lasting impact. She’s worked across some of Australia’s award-winning regions, helping businesses and communities grow through strong leadership, innovative campaigns, and a deep commitment to place. Sarah is passionate about creating meaningful change, grounded in community values and focused on sustainable growth that benefits both people and place.

Melanie Han

Melanie is no stranger to Christmas Island, even only having lived here for 6 years. Her deep connection to the island stems from her great grandfather who migrated to Christmas Island in the 1940s from Guangzhou, China for better job prospects. Her grandmother and 6 siblings were born and raised on Christmas Island.

Because of these roots, she has been compelled to help strengthen the local economy and create opportunities for the island. She has a background in both tourism and media communication through her education and work experiences. Additionally, she has been an active member of the Chinese Literary Association and has helped organize multiple events to foster a sense of belonging and cultural inclusion amongst the community.

Kuranda Seyit

Kuranda brings with him, a wealth of experience in the community sector, having worked with refugees, people with disability and new and emerging communities.

Kuranda has completed a Masters in Peace and Conflict Studies from Sydney University and is also a documentary filmmaker. He was selected among the Bulletin Magazine's SMART 100 people in Australia, he won the National Multicultural Marketing Award for the Goodness and Kindness Campaign, and he received the Pride of Australia medal under the category of peace. 

For the past four years, he has managed Oceania House on Home Island and spends much of his time on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, where he is deeply involved in local life and community initiatives across the atolls.