Kate Dilger, Executive Officer
Kate has been part of SASTA for 12 years, following a 27-year teaching career. With her extensive experience in education, Kate has a genuine understanding of the challenges (winter yard duty on the football oval and term reports to name two!), and joys of science educators.
Kate has an unwavering commitment to science education and the SASTA community. She loves connecting with members, whether it’s at an event, during a workshop, or even over a wine. Be warned, though—if you chat with Kate for too long, she’ll likely have you signed up for a workshop, webinar, or another way to get involved!
Outside of work, Kate is a passionate traveller, reasonable skier, and an enthusiastic, but not always successful cook. She cherishes time spent with two daughters and her excitable grandpuppies.
In the SASTA office, Kate keeps the team laughing and fosters a friendly, positive atmosphere. While Kate steers the ship, she’s quick to credit her incredible team for making her look good.
Rebecca Cooke, Office Manager
Rebecca has been at SASTA for more than nine years, having joined the team after holding a similar role in another not-for-profit association in Adelaide for nearly 15 years prior.
Here at the SASTA office, Rebecca endeavours to ensure the SASTA staff has enough snacks to get through each day and enough toilet paper to get through a pandemic!
When she’s not taking care of the staff, Rebecca packs your orders, takes care of the accounts, assists at workshop and event registration, coordinates the Oliphant Science Awards school coordinators, and organises a mean seating chart to make sure the Oliphant Science Awards prize winners are presented with their prizes in the correct, precise order!
Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys Pilates, playing Netball and catching up with friends when not in the company of her husband, two very (excessively) talkative cats and one crazy turtle.
She’s always happy to help wherever possible, so feel free to email Rebecca directly to office@sasta.asn.au.
Tegan McClean, Marketing, Communications & Events Manager
Tegan joined SASTA in August 2017, bringing over 15 years of experience in events and teacher associations. If you’ve attended one of SASTA’s major conferences, you’ve probably seen Tegan—but only briefly, because standing still isn’t part of the job description!
From compiling the e-news and newsletters to managing the SASTA Blog, social media, and marketing materials, Tegan works behind the scenes to keep everyone connected. Most recently, Tegan has also taken on the role of Journal Editor—just one more way she keeps SASTA’s communications running smoothly.
In the office, Tegan brings a positive energy, celebrating wins—big or small—whether it’s a successful event, a standout social media post, or simply ticking another task off the list.
Outside of work, life stays busy with a young son who’s recently started school and two energetic kelpies who ensure there’s never a dull moment. A big fan of road trips and travel, Tegan is often planning the next adventure—so if you can’t find her in the office, chances are she is off exploring somewhere new!
Isabelle Chalmers, Membership Office and Administration & Events Assistant
Isabelle is the friendly face (or voice) you’ll meet when reaching out to SASTA. She joined the team at the start of 2023 and has quickly become the go-to person for all things membership-related. Whether it’s answering questions, helping you join, or ensuring your experience with SASTA is a positive one, Isabelle is always happy to assist.
Isabelle provides support across SASTA’s operations, helping keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. From coordinating the judging process for the Oliphant Science Awards to assisting with social media activities and organising merchandise, she handles a little bit of everything.
When it comes to events, Isabelle lends a helping hand to make sure everything runs smoothly—whether it’s a major conference or a smaller networking session. If you’re attending, you might spot her at the registration desk, ready to greet you with a warm smile.
Outside of work, Isabelle enjoys exploring the local food and drink scene with friends, browsing local markets, and catching live music whenever she can. At home, she’s kept company by her three cats and loves unwinding with a good movie, TV show, or book. With her down-to-earth nature and approachable attitude, Isabelle is a valued member of the SASTA team.