Lisa Hresc

Chief Executive Officer

Lisa has over 25 years executive management experience in commercial and not-for-profit organisations, having worked with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), ABC commercial and The Benevolent Society. She has led teams across business strategy, development, digital transformation, brand, marketing, media and communications as well as fundraising and philanthropy.

Lisa holds an Executive MBA and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). She is also a Board Member and Committee Chair for ChildFund Australia.

Lisa has been a runner for the past 10 years and has completed several half marathons, triathlons and completed the Queenstown Marathon in 2023.

In 2026 her next challenges will be one of our goal Ocean Swim events, running the Gold Coast marathon and climbing Mt Kilimanjaro. 

“Joining Can Too Foundation is an absolute privilege. As the Foundation enters its 20th year and having raised over $35 million since 2005. The lifelong stories of our participants conquering their challenges and the incredible impact the research and our research candidates have had during this time has changed lives.”

Gina Grimaldi 

Gina has over 15 years' experience working across fundraising and the not-for-profit sector, building partnerships and connecting supporters with causes that create meaningful impact in the community.

Throughout her career, Gina has worked in fundraising, partnerships and philanthropy roles, helping organisations grow support and deliver programs that improve lives. She is particularly motivated by the power of the community and collective giving, and believes that when generous people come together behind a shared goal, big problems become solvable and lasting change becomes possible.

Outside of work, Gina loves running, swimming and the occassional bike ride. She is a proud mum to an eight-year-old daughter, shares her home with a loyal dog and a remarkably patient fish, and believes that staying active and connected to community is one of life's great gifts.

She is excited to be part of the CanToo community, where fitness, generosity and determination come together to support vital cancer research.

"Over the years I've seen the CanToo spirit alive at running events - people pushing themselves for something bigger than the finish line. I'm thrilled to now be part of the team helping that community tackle big challenges together."

Kat Salmons

Kat moved to Australia from the UK in late 2024, bringing her 10 years of experience of the not-for-profit sector along with her. Kat has worked across various Fundraising and Comms teams for both small and large charities in this time.

In 2020, Kat took up running for the first time, having never completed a 5km before. Since then, she's developed a passion for health and fitness, and even completed the London Marathon in 2022. If you check her diary, Kat will always have a new race lined up!

"Over the years I have loved working for causes that truly make a difference to people's lives, and CanToo does just that as well. From helping people to keep fit and conquer challenges, to helping fund vital cancer research, it's a privilege to be part of the team."

Sophie Conna 

Community Engagement Coordinator

Sophie joined CanToo with a Bachelor of Psychology, over three years of experience in the not-for-profit sector and a passion for community engagement. Guided by a strong interest in behavioural science, health and wellbeing, Sophie is enthusiastic about health promotion and strongly believes that the grass is always greener where you water it.

Outside of work, Sophie loves to keep her body and mind active - enjoying Pilates, running, writing and travelling the globe.

"CanToo is a perfect example of where prevention meets purpose, supporting healthier lives today and breakthrough research for tomorrow."

Stacie Smith

Stacie brings 25 years of experience as a small business owner, visual artist, and photographer. Originally from Southern California, she moved to Sydney from Denver, Colorado six years ago and has since become a dedicated grassroots organiser and fundraiser, building community as an advocate and parent activist to support her LGBT+ child.

Stacie’s connection to CanToo began when she arrived in Australia. Despite starting as a casual swimmer who could only manage 200 meters at a time, she found a welcoming community in the ocean swim program. Ocean swimming has become a big part of her life.

“I have lost friends and family, young and old, to cancer. I feel blessed to be part of an organisation that not only strengthens the mental and physical health of its participants but also drives forward groundbreaking cancer research.”

Melissa Clifford

Melissa joined CanToo in 2025, bringing over 15 years of experience in strategic marketing and business development across the FMCG and consumer goods sector. She holds a degree in Business and brings with her a strong background in feasibility studies, integrated marketing strategies and project management.

Melissa loves how staying active helps you feel good - both in body and mind - and how it brings people together through shared goals and meaningful moments. Outside the office, she's often at a bootcamp session, out for a run, on the tennis court, or spending time with her three kids.

Having seen the effects of cancer up close, Melissa is driven by CanToo's mission to support life-changing research and empower people to challenge themselves through fitness.

“Being part of a team that champions both health and hope is incredibly motivating. It's a privilege to help grow this powerful community and amplify its impact." 

Dani Knowles

Programs Coordinator

Dani joined CanToo with 7 years experience in the sports and leisure industry across both the UK and Australia. 

With a Bachelor (Hons) Degree in Psychology, Dani has a keen interest in health promotion and using physical activity to improve quality of life. She believes in “passionate participation” over “perfect participation”, and that there is a space for everyone to try new things!

Outside of work, Dani loves to travel. She spent 8 months backpacking Europe, and most recently completed a 3 month road trip across Australia.

Danielle Teper 

Finance and Corporate Services Manager 

Dani is a Finance and Strategy professional with over 15 years' experience, primarily in the beverages and FMCG industries. She holds a Bachelor of Accounting & Finance and is a registered Chartered Accountant. Dani is excited to be transitioning into the not-for-profit sector, where she hopes to use her strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and financial expertise to help make a meaningful difference in the community.

Outside of work, Dani loves staying active and finds it's one of the best ways to keep her mind clear and positive. She enjoys group HIIT and boxing classes, coastal walks, and is hoping that joining CanToo will reignite her love of running - something that's taken a bit of a backseat while raising her three young kids.

"I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to join CanToo and to apply my finance background to help grow such an impactful organisation. I'm inspired by CanToo's dual mission of cancer prevention and cancer research, and I'm excited to see what we can achieve together in the future." 

Kirk Zhao

Kirk started with CanToo in late 2015. He holds a Bachelor of Finance and Master of Commerce. He is also a member of the CPA. He performs all processing of financial transactions for the Foundation.

“I’m very proud of being a CanToo-er. At CanToo I've met incredible Participants and work with amazing colleagues. I love the spirit of CanToo, to set a goal and never give up, you CanToo!"

Trish Dwight

With a PhD in cancer biology and over 20 years of experience in laboratory research, research management, and science communication, Trish oversees the strategy, implementation, and evaluation of CanToo's research program - a program dedicated to strengthening and supporting Australia's early and emerging cancer researchers.

In her role, Trish works closely with researchers and research organisations to ensure that funded projects are well-supported and positioned to achieve meaningful outcomes. She facilitates connections between researchers and the CanToo community, helping to translate complex findings into clear, accessible insights that demonstrate why supporting early and emerging researchers matters and how it shapes future improvements in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Alongside her professional role, Trish has participated in numerous CanToo training programs. This direct involvement gives her a strong understanding of CanToo's purpose, the motivations and experiences of its community, and what can be achieved through collective action.

“Investing in researchers during the early phase of their careers is critical. Support during this early phase enables researchers to develop track records and leadership skills, which are crucial to their long-term success in a highly competitive environment."