After his ordination in 1992 as an assistant minister, Peter Hayward founded a church in the new housing area of Glenmore Park. In 1996, he moved to Spokane in the State of Washington in the USA and became the founding Rector of an independent Anglican congregation known as Christ the Redeemer. In 2001, Peter moved back to Sydney, becoming the Rector of Beverley Hills with Kingsgrove Anglican Church. Bishop Hayward commenced as Bishop of Wollongong in April 2010. Peter’s prayer is that many in the Illawarra will know and love Jesus.

Hengki has lived in the Illawarra since he came to Australia to complete his studies at the University of Wollongong 30 years ago.  Hengki, Lidia and his adult children attend and serve at Citylife, Fairy Meadow. He has the heart for unity and what the churches can do together for the betterment of their region. In addition to his day-to-day role in his tech company, he also serves in a few Christian initiatives locally and nationally; Illawarra Prayer Breakfast, Movement Day Australia, Diamond Women and Australian Heart Ministries.

Pastors Shane Cook was Senior Pastor of INC church in Newcastle for 12 years before feeling the call of God to pastor Shellharbour Community Church in 2008. He has a passion for the Illawarra community launching initiatives including FoodCare, CityServe Shellharbour and Sprouts Early Learning with the vision of seeing our city served and transformed. With a down to earth, genuine style, Shane and his wife Rachel lead their church with energy and vision. They are passionate about seeing the power of God transforming lives and consistently create space in their services for the Holy Spirit to move and touch people’s hearts.

David’s early years were a unique blend of rural and coastal life, a foundation that has honed his adaptability and broad perspective. At 15, he embarked on a journey with the Navy, serving on deployments in Asia, the Pacific, and the USA. Since leaving the Navy, David has invested 35 years in the offshore oil and gas industry and contributed to some of Australia’s most extensive offshore infrastructure projects. His strong family values complement David's professional achievements. He has been married for 38 years and is a proud father of two sons and grandfather of two granddaughters.

Meeting women in all seasons of life, sharing her faith with them, and encouraging them to press on in their walk with Jesus is a particular passion for Ella. Home is in Helensburgh (the Illawarra’s northern most suburb) and together with her husband, Ella is thankful to work and serve in the local church there. As a graphic and textile designer by trade, any opportunity to be creative or to enjoy the creativity of others is an excellent way to spend her free time, but in this season of life, a fair bit of it is spent on the sideline, cheering for her young, soccer loving son!

Jason serves as the International Student and 5PM Service Minister at Keiraville International Church.  He is married to Paula and together they have 3 boys. Jason and Paula have a visible passion for Jesus and seeing people meet Jesus and walk with him.  They previously served as Missionaries in Indonesia for 8 years and love discipling people in Keiraville from Australia and all around the world. Downtime for Jason involves playing guitar, taking photos and being in the ocean; surfing and snorkelling in the Illawarra. 

After a few years doing ministry in Western Sydney, Matt and his wife have returned to St Michael's where Matt did his training. He's excited to see Youth ministry continue to grow and flourish and is part of the team assisting with the Youth Event on 28 March.

Ray has worked as Director in a number of Christian organisations including Hope for Orphans of Ethiopia, International Care Ministries (alleviating ultra-poverty in the Philippines) and Walk to Emmaus (Hong Kong) Ministries.  He also served as Director of Missions at Union Church Hong Kong and as a volunteer in prison ministry with The Hong Kong Christian Kun Sun Association for over 10 years.  He and his wife, Gail, currently serve at City on a Hill and enjoy engaging with their local community.

Neil Whalan manages the financial and operational aspects of Shellharbour Community Church, ensuring resources are used effectively to support its ministries. With a passion for Jesus and a heart for service, Neil applies his business expertise to help his church thrive, grow, and fulfill its mission in the community. His work in budgeting, facility management, and planning creates a strong foundation for the church’s outreach and spiritual impact.

Nat is passionate about the Body of Christ collaborating to bring Hope for the Illawarra, a partnership between Leading The Way with Dr Michael Youssef and the churches of the Illawarra. Nat is a video producer, cinematographer, musician, and along with his family, is actively involved at Awaken Church Wollongong.  He is also a Board Member of Dads4Kids Fatherhood Foundation.