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.”

Melissa Clifford

Business Growth and Engagement Lead

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.”

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.”

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."

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.

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!"