Our Team
We’re all about community here, and it’s our amazing volunteers, members, donors, supporters, and staff who make everything possible. Our executive committee and management team are dedicated to making sure your efforts go a long way in protecting the places we all cherish.
Coordinator: Ahri Tallon
Ahri Tallon is a youth worker, community organiser and community development worker based in Toowoomba, Queensland. Ahri has always worked in community projects and organisations trying to create a more connected, thriving and sustainable world. He is passionate about working with young people, supporting healthy organisations and preserving our planet for future generations. Ahri joins DDEC after working with youth at risk, setting up and running a charity providing skills development and mentoring in Northern NSW.
President: Don Carlson
Don joined the DDEC Committee as a representative of Renew and was elected President in August 2023 after serving as Treasurer for a year. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Environmental Science, he brings a diverse background in rural production, research, marketing, and 26 years as a Financial Planner and Business Owner. He also serves on the board of Momentum Mental Health and is President of the Toowoomba Bushwalking Club. Passionate about protecting the environment, renewable energy, and sustainable building practices, Don also enjoys growing food and bushwalking. He hopes to make DDEC more inclusive and help the community find practical solutions to environmental and social challenges.
Christel Pidcock, Secretary
A fitness professional by trade Christel has joined DDEC as a committee member in 2023 as representative of the Toowoomba Wilderness Society volunteer team which through community engagement tackles local environmental concerns like biodiversity loss as well as national issues such as climate change. She is actively involved in caring for the Withcott Koala fodder forest for the benefit of local Koala carers and their patients in care. Christel also advocates for the preservation of habitat and establishment of corridors through engagement with landholders and coordinates tree plantings. As an active member of Friends of Escarpment Parks Christel also helps care for local escarpment parks and has for many years supported Toowoomba for Climate Action as an advocate for a safe climate.
Dr David Tutty, Treasurer
Dr David Tutty is the Executive Officer of the Toowoomba Catholic Social Justice Commission. This work includes advocacy and education for justice focusing on issues that are raised by First Nations peoples, refugees and asylum seekers and care of our common home – planet earth. Originally from Aotearoa New Zealand, he has also lived for many years in South Africa and Australia. During his time in South Africa, David lived in a rural area for over six years and managed a church-owned, aged care facility. His doctorate is in theology from the University of South Africa.
