The YGS Board
Ricky Burges PSM
ChairpersonRicky Burges is the Chief Executive Officer of Albany Community Care. Before that, Ricky held many community-focused roles, including CEO of Albany Youth Support Association, CEO of WA Local Government Association for 19 years, Director-General of the Department for Culture and the Arts, CEO of Perth Zoo and the Director of Human Resources at the WA Tourism Commission.
Ricky holds a Masters Degree in Leadership and Management from Curtin University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Development, a Certificate in Psychotherapy, and Diplomas in Coaching.
“I am an Elder in the community now, and I have been fortunate to have been able to study, develop, gain experience and wisdom and am so privileged to be able to contribute towards improving the lives of disadvantaged young people in the community I live in. There is great joy in contributing to such a worthy endeavour.”
Craig Dew
Director
Craig Dew is a Director of Dew Dallimore—an Albany WA accounting firm with a 25-year pedigree.
Craig holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) from Curtin University. He is a member of the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants.
Craig was the original trustee of The Elwood Great Southern Trust, which was set up to provide financial assistance to disadvantaged youth in the Great Southern region of WA.
The trust, which was the precursor to Youth Great Southern Ltd, was set up from funds provided in the will of Craig’s client and friend Tony Elwood.
“Through the Trust, we have a chance to make a difference to the lives of young people in the region. With a clear focus on the Great Southern, and in partnership with local organisations, we can have a real impact on our community.”
Caleb Drage
DirectorCaleb Drage is passionate about the power of a caring community and the difference it can make in a young person’s life. Growing up in Albany, he experienced the impact of people who invested in him and created space for his growth—an influence that continues to shape his commitment to supporting others.
With practical experience in local youth programs and a genuine dedication to walking alongside young people through life’s challenges, Caleb is focused on creating environments where young people feel safe, valued, and able to thrive. He believes deeply in the potential of regional youth and serves on the board of Youth Great Southern to help strengthen partnerships and shape long‑-term strategies that improve outcomes across the region.
At the core of his work is a respect for the worth of every individual and a belief in the unique potential within each young person.
“Joining Youth Great Southern is both a privilege and an exciting opportunity. It allows me to contribute to decisions that support the flourishing of young people in and around our community. I’m committed to helping ensure they are supported, listened to, and given every opportunity to succeed. I’m excited to be part of an organisation that’s creating genuine, positive change
Rebecca Stephens
Director
Rebecca Stephens is an Albany-born community leader and former Member for Albany in the Western Australian Legislative Assembly. She served from 2021 to 2025, becoming the first woman elected to the seat of Albany and the first Albany-born representative. Rebecca has also served as a City of Albany councillor, held roles with Worklink WA, and contributed to local organisations including the Albany Chamber of Commerce and Albany Surf Life Saving Club.
“I feel deeply honoured to serve on the Board of Youth Great Southern. Having grown up in Albany and worked alongside communities across the region, I understand how important it is for young people to feel heard, supported and connected to opportunity. I am proud to contribute my experience, local knowledge and passion for the Great Southern to help strengthen outcomes for young people and their families.”