A.B. Paterson College Foundation
The Australian spirit has long been known to be one of generosity, service, support and mateship. In the tradition of these enduring values, as a College community all members can help A.B. Paterson College mature and develop the College’s Mission – To Challenge the Individual to Achieve and Act with Purpose and Character – and, in so doing, model and exemplify philanthropic values and the essence of the Australian spirit.
The act of giving to others – be it our time, our skills and talents, or our financial support – is the essence of the generosity and service to others defined by our heritage, and the countless men and women who have given their life in the service of others. It is this spirit of giving that our College wishes to instil in our students as we prepare the next generation of young people about to take their place in society.
How can you make a difference? There are many ways in which you can contribute to our community. Many people give of their time to assist teachers in reading programs; coach sports teams; provide specialist advice to staff and sporting teams on matters of skill development and nutrition; or, act within our curriculum as a mentor or advisor to students. Other people assist by enabling us to continue to provide and develop creative learning spaces to motivate, inspire and educate our students through tax deductible donations to our Building and Scholarship Funds.
A.B. Paterson College Foundation Board
Edward J. Klimowicz
Chair of the Foundation Board: A.B. Paterson College
Member: Board, A.B. Paterson College
Edward J. Klimowicz is a long-standing Member of the College Board, Chair of the A.B. Paterson College Foundation and past Board Chairman of the Early Childhood Centre. Mr Klimowicz has dedicated 22 years to the development of A.B. Paterson College as a Member of its various Boards, as a father, and as a grandfather.
Mr Klimowicz is the Founder and Managing Director of The Advanced Group. Since the company’s inception, he has applied over 30 years of business knowledge and experience in leading The Advanced Group to what it is today.
The E.J. Klimowicz Voice Excellence Scholarship is named in his honour as he has long-maintained an interest in the development of Music at the College and, in particular, that of Voice. Mr Klimowicz, a highly accomplished singer in his own right, is a member of internationally renowned Barbershop Quartet and the Gold Coast Blenders.
Nicole Kelly
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Nicole Kelly is an experienced CPA, business consultant and taxation specialist known for helping, educating and supporting clients as they develop strategic plans for the future.
As an MBA, Nicole brings over 18 years of progressive leadership and change management experience across multiple industries, geographies and scale of businesses. She possesses a unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit combined with a deep passion for both technology and business. Her skills set ranges from executive management, software development, product management, to sales and marketing.
Her passion for innovative start-ups includes the whole spectrum from conceptualisation to capital raising, design, development and implementation. She champions small business and is dedicated to crafting culture and technology that enables scalability and sustainability.
Nicole considers diversity to be the pinnacle of success and embraces lifelong learning. She also holds a Diploma of Financial Planning, is a registered tax agent, licenced real estate agent and Toastmaster. She has worked with numerous boards, serves on committees and is a graduate member of the AICD. She has been a dedicated Board Member and parent of A.B. Paterson College since 2015 and Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee since 2018. She is the founder and CEO of Gold Coast based Accounting firm ABA Tax and software development company Taxtank.
Adam Carswell
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Adam is a strategic and inclusive HR executive with over 20 years of global experience driving cultural transformation, workforce design, and operational excellence across mining, construction, manufacturing, and financial services.
He has led major change initiatives, built high-performing teams, and delivered people strategies aligned to complex business goals. His leadership has shaped global technical teams, improved gender diversity, and supported multimillion-dollar projects through every phase – from greenfield to improved operations. With deep expertise in stakeholder engagement, talent planning, and behavioural safety, Adam brings a pragmatic, people-first approach to building resilient, future-ready organisations.
Lisa Lang
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Lisa has more than 30 years experience working in her family owned retail & importing business, primarily as Office Manager. In this role she has developed extensive experience in administration, business operations and container logistics, requiring strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills.
Lisa also has a long and valued connection with the College Community, having served on the Parents & Friends Association for 20 years, including 12 years as President. During this time, she introduced initiatives which have become part of College life, including the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls. She was actively involved in preparing grant applications and liaising with the College’s Swimming and Netball Clubs to assist with budgeting and financial planning.
Her areas of expertise include administration, organisation, community engagement, event coordination, budgeting and relationship building.
Her commitment to community extends well beyond the College. Lisa has volunteered at Rosie’s - Friends on the Street, Gold Coast University Hospital and Support the Girls, supporting people from a diverse range of backgrounds and circumstances. She is also involved in mentoring young people through IBFF, an opportunity that reflects her passion for encouraging and supporting others. Across her professional College and volunteer roles, Lisa brings practical experience, empathy and a genuine belief in giving back and making a positive contribution to her community.
Joanne Sheehy M.Ed, B.Ed (Hons)
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Joanne joined A.B. Paterson College in 2003. She has held numerous leadership positions at the College including the Head of Mathematics, Dean of Studies, Head of Senior School, Assistant Principal and now the Principal. Joanne has a Bachelor of Education (Hons) with double majors in both Physics and Mathematics as well as a Masters of Education in Leadership and Management.
Joanne has been instrumental in developing student-related programs, structures and policies, most significantly in the areas of student leadership, personal development curriculum and student services. She combines her strong academic and pastoral background with a collaborative style of leadership and an ardent belief in creating an inclusive educational environment where individual strengths can be encouraged and nurtured.
Nathan Archer
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Nathan Archer is an experienced corporate advisor and financial analyst having spent the last decade and a half consulting with businesses on corporate consolidations for public listings on a stock exchange, mergers and acquisitions/corporate restructure, business valuations, new market development, and strategic exit planning. He is a highly experienced capital markets advisor having traded professionally as a stockbroker and derivatives advisor for superannuation funds and high net worth clients.
Nathan holds a Master’s degree in both Finance and Accounting, Level 2 Authorised Derivatives Advisor certification and is an adjunct lecturer in Finance at Griffith University. He is also on the board of a handful of charities and not-for-profit organisations.
Nathan Putland
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Nathan Putland is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience in business advisory, senior executive management and business development. He has worked across a range of industries delivering strategic financial leadership, operational improvement and commercial growth initiatives for organisations of varying scale. He is recognised for combining strong technical accounting expertise with practical executive insight to drive performance and sustainable business outcomes.
He has also maintained a long-standing involvement with A.B. Paterson College over the past 15 years, contributing as both a parent and a mentor. He has supported students in developing a clearer understanding of the professional working world, offering guidance on career pathways, workplace expectations and personal development.
Through his professional and community engagement, he is committed to fostering capability, confidence and opportunity in both business and education settings. He continues to contribute meaningfully to the development of emerging talent and future leaders across sectors.
Terri McGuire
Board Director: A.B. Paterson College Foundation
Terri has a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources and Management), a Graduate Certificate in Business (Automotive Management) and is a Qualified Justice of the Peace.
She has experience in all sectors of retail automotive dealership management and business management in general. Terri is a Director of the Zupp Property Group, which specialises in property and asset investment and management.
The A.B. Paterson College Foundation is incredibly grateful to our Foundation Partners who believe in our College, our students, and the future of our community. Through their commitment and generosity, our partners play a vital role in enabling opportunities for students at the College, while also helping bring to life the meaningful impact projects undertaken by the Foundation.
It is through their shared vision and ongoing partnership that we are able to continue advancing the Foundation’s philosophy and creating lasting benefits for current and future generations of students.
If you are interested in partnering with the Foundation in a similar way, please contact our Community Engagement Officer, Maddi Wilesmith, via email at mwilesmith@abpat.qld.edu.au
2026 Foundation Partners
Computer Alliance
Established in 2000, Computer Alliance is a leading Queensland-owned and operated IT integrator employing more than 100 staff. The company services a diverse customer base across the commercial, government, education, and not-for-profit sectors, and operates a comprehensive facility in Mt Gravatt that includes a retail outlet, custom build centre, and repair and service division.
Computer Alliance is known for its customer-focused approach, with experienced sales and technical teams delivering responsive and knowledgeable support. The organisation is ISO9001:2015 certified, reflecting a strong commitment to quality outcomes, continuous improvement, and investment in both people and systems.
With one of the most extensive technology product ranges in Australia, Computer Alliance also provides nationwide support through a dedicated engineering team, offering managed services, helpdesk assistance, and general IT support to organisations across the country.
Medland Orthodontics
Medland Orthodontics is dedicated to improving the lives of its patients through high-quality orthodontic care delivered in an environment that values friendliness, professionalism, and genuine care. The practice is committed to providing treatment that not only creates healthy, straight smiles, but also builds confidence and supports patients in becoming the best version of themselves.
The team at Medland Orthodontics focuses on delivering a personalised experience for every patient, with tailored treatment plans designed to suit individual needs. From the welcoming approach of the staff to the attention given to each stage of treatment, patient care remains at the centre of everything they do.
By combining clinical expertise with the latest advancements in orthodontic technology, Medland Orthodontics consistently achieves outstanding results. Their highly skilled doctors and team members are experienced in modern techniques and are dedicated to providing the highest standard of orthodontic treatment for every patient.
Gold Coast Bulletin
The Gold Coast Bulletin is a well-established and widely recognised news publication serving the Gold Coast community, delivering local news, sport, business, and lifestyle coverage across both print and digital platforms. With a strong presence in the region, the Bulletin has played an important role in reporting on the stories, events, and achievements that shape the local community.
As part of News Corp Australia, the Gold Coast Bulletin combines local knowledge with the reach of a national media network, allowing it to provide timely and reliable coverage across a broad audience. The publication regularly features community initiatives, education, and local organisations, helping to highlight the people and programs that contribute to the growth and success of the region.
Through its ongoing involvement in the community, the Gold Coast Bulletin continues to support opportunities that promote connection, recognise achievement, and bring awareness to initiatives that have a positive impact across the Gold Coast.
The Cabinetry Co.
The Cabinetry Co. is a family-owned and operated business with over 15 years of experience in the cabinet making industry, providing custom cabinetry and joinery solutions for both small and large-scale projects. Servicing the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and surrounding areas, the company specialises in delivering high-quality workmanship tailored to each client’s needs.
The Cabinetry Co. is known for designing and creating practical and stylish kitchens, bathrooms, and wardrobes, along with custom storage solutions, TV units, and outdoor BBQ kitchens. With a strong focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail, the team works closely with clients to bring their ideas to life while ensuring every project meets a high standard of quality and functionality.
Through its commitment to excellence and personalised service, The Cabinetry Co. continues to build strong relationships within the local community and across the building and design industry.
Neilson Law
Neilson Law is a respected family law and divorce attorney serving the Brisbane and Gold Coast regions. With extensive experience assisting individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging and emotional circumstances, the firm is dedicated to providing practical, compassionate and impartial legal advice tailored to each client's unique needs.
Understanding that family law matters can be complex and overwhelming, the team at Neilson Law works closely with clients to identify clear pathways forward and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Built on the values of strength, clarity and results, Neilson Law is committed to supporting clients with confidence and professionalism throughout every stage of the legal process. By combining expert knowledge with a client-focused approach, the firm helps individuals navigate difficult transitions, make informed decisions, and move forward with certainty towards a brighter future.
A.B. Paterson College acknowledges the Kombumerri People as Traditional Custodians of the land, sea, waterways, and skies in which we learn and play. We also pay our respects to elders, past, present, and emerging, and recognise their continuing connection to country and ways of learning.