About Us
Our Mission
At Murrie Connections, We work at the intersection of policy, business, and community to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are at the centre of decision-making.—amplifying our voices to drive real change. We ground our work in cultural safety, real evidence, and lived community knowledge—strengthening sustainability and self-determination. Our mission is to ensure that research and engagement efforts are inclusive, ethical, and led by the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Our Vision
To create a research landscape where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are not only heard—but embedded, respected, and actioned—within ethical frameworks that meet the highest industry standards. We envision a future where community knowledge and cultural authority shape research practice, driving outcomes that are both meaningful and measurable.
To bridge research excellence with cultural integrity—ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices shape ethical, impactful outcomes that meet both community priorities and sector standards.
Meet the Team
Our team is made up of passionate, experienced professionals who bring deep cultural understanding, lived experience, and specialist knowledge to everything we do.
Russell Williams
Director
Russell Williams is a proud member of the Bindal, Juru, and Erub communities. With a career spanning over 35 years, Russell has made significant contributions to various First Nation Community Control Organisations in both Victoria and Queensland.
His extensive experience encompasses local communities, health, youth, and justice systems, all areas in which he has developed deep expertise and understanding. Russell's dedication lies in working alongside First Nation Australians, supporting them in various capacities.
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Currently, Russell resides on Taribelang Bunda land in Bundaberg, where he works as a freelance Research Assistant. In collaboration with Whereto Research, Dilliwollo, and the University of Queensland, he plays a crucial role in facilitating project recruitment and providing cultural moderation.
Russell holds active positions on several boards, demonstrating his commitment to community involvement and leadership:
Local Thriving Communities QLD Government – Local Decision-Making Body
Local Thriving Communities QLD Government – Local Decision-Making Body – Youth Engagement Roundtable
Local Community Education Body – Bundaberg North High School
Previously, Russell has served on the boards of the Bundaberg Aboriginal Housing and Advancement Society, Bundaberg Aboriginal Multimedia Corporation, and Yamba Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Corporation.
Russell is a strong advocate for the importance of First Nation Australians having a voice and input in decision-making processes, campaigning efforts, and the formulation of resolutions on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. His life's work is characterised by a commitment to empowering communities and ensuring that their perspectives are valued and respected.
Suzy Williams
Cultural Co-Moderator
Suzy Williams is a Kuku Yalanji woman from Far North Queensland with over 20 years of experience working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled services.
Throughout her career, Suzy has been dedicated to empowering individuals and families by involving them in the decision-making processes of their lives. Her expertise includes addressing social and emotional challenges, domestic and family violence, housing, and homelessness.
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Suzy has worked extensively within Aboriginal communities in Cape York and is passionate about making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Currently, she contributes her skills to Murrie Connections and Whereto Research.
Elliejean Singh
Lead Cultural Moderator, Co-Moderator, Cultural Advisor, & Report Writer
Elliejean Singh is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman from Far North Queensland, and a devoted mother of four.
With over 18 years of experience in the community and public sectors, she is a high-performing professional known for her dedication to strengthening identity, culture, pride, and social purpose among Aboriginal, Torres Strait, and South Sea Islander people. Elliejean's extensive background includes roles in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, domestic and family violence, homelessness, and youth justice.
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Currently, she serves as the Health and Wellbeing Manager at an Aboriginal Community Controlled Early Years Service, where she manages allied health services for children, their families, and the community. Additionally, Elliejean is the owner of Baker Marapai Consultancy and is actively involved in supporting Murrie Connections, contributing her expertise to various Whereto Research initiatives.
Tracey Renee
Cultural Advisor & Moderator (Victoria)
Tracey Renee is a proud Gunditjmara, Dja Dja Wurrung, and Bindal woman based in Narrm (Melbourne). She brings over a decade of experience working within community organisations, with a strong focus on supporting and advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities.
Her career spans Aboriginal Best Start programs, administration, and funeral support services, where she offers compassion, cultural understanding, and practical insight in every role. Currently working with Murrie Connections, Tracey focuses on cultural support and advocacy, helping to elevate community voices and strengthen cultural identity within systems and services.
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Tracey is deeply committed to creating safe, culturally informed spaces where Aboriginal peoples feel seen, heard, and respected. Her work is grounded in cultural integrity, community empowerment, and the ongoing pursuit of equity and recognition.
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