About our members

Kylie Scott, NSW

Kylie’s life as a person with an intellectual disability (Down syndrome) is very full. Her lived experiences have equipped her to share her story to empower others through her business – kyliedownsbarriers. For Kylie, it is essential that policies and practices focus on people’s ability – not disability. 

In particular, she has worked in places where intellectual disability was not understood and the right support not provided. Her talks highlight some ways we all may assist people less able than ourselves so they are confident and included in all our communities. 

Kylie is passionate about the UNCRPD and how Australia needs to change and improve to be able to meet our obligations to the CRPD. Kylie’s passion saw her, at the invitation of Down Syndrome International, fundraise for herself and her support person to attend and speak at the United Nations, New York, on 21 March 2023 – World Down Syndrome Day. 

Lauren Murray, ACT

Lauren is from the ACT. She has completed a certificate in Business Studies and computer courses. She has been employed by Koomarri since 2006 and has worked in a number of working roles. She lives independently, attends a gym several times per week and is an active member of the Wizards Bowling League. Lauren has a positive outlook on life and is willing to challenge herself with new situations. 

Elise Romaszko, TAS

Elise lives independently in Tasmania. Elise has a positive and enthusiastic approach to work and helping others. She has experience working in a café and as an administrative assistant. She has experience in advocacy and was a member of the Minister for Disability Advisory Committee in Tasmania. She was also on the executive committee for Down Syndrome Association of Tasmania. Elise is creative and a performer. Elise enjoys making podcasts.  

Elise is caring and enjoys being an advocate for her friends.  

Andrew Domahidy, WA 

Andrew lives independently and is very involved in community activities. He is interested in graphic design, designing logos, doing pamphlets and newsletters, as well as having good committee skills. Importantly, he is interested in other people and always asks how people are, especially if he hasn’t seen them for a while. Andrew is also very interested in all things military and is a seasoned traveller. 

Andrew is currently learning parkour and Italian.  

Andrew is a representative for Down Syndrome Australia on Down Syndrome International. Andrew attends these meetings with his colleagues from around the world via zoom.  

Jenny Bowden, VIC

Jenny is involved in a community choir and volunteers at a Red Cross Op shop once a week. Jenny’s interests include dancing, art and  gardening and she keeps active doing pilates, swimming and going to the gym.   

Jenny loves attending YMCA camps during the year.  

Jenny worked part time  for Valid,  which is the Victorian peak advocacy organization for people with an intellectual disability. 

Jenny is passionate about getting people out into the community and would like to give a voice to people with Down syndrome. She is also a member of the Down Syndrome Victoria Advisory Network. 

Bella Kobayshi, SA

I am the owner of Magnolia Tea. I make and sell my teas from the Adelaide Hills in South Australia. I am half Japanese. I have lots of family. I love to party and have friends and company around me.  

I am a mum to my pet cat, Julian. 

I am kind.  

Lisa Tiernan, NT 

 I’m Lisa from Darwin in the Northern Territory.  I have lived in Darwin all my life and will be 35 this year.  I live at home with my mum, sister and pets.  Later this year, I’m really excited as Mum and I are moving to the Sunshine Coast. 

I completed year 12 and started work in 2015, part time for the Northern Territory Government in an Admin Support role. Some of my duties include scanning private confidential folders, checking that there is milk in the fridge, and making name badges for new staff. I love my job and helping my work colleagues.    

I am also learning cafe and barista skills at Bunnings – it’s great fun to learn new skills each week and serve customers 

I been bowling for over 15 years and I have lots of fun and making friends when I represent the NT for National Disability Championships around the Australia every year. In 2018 I was a finalist in the NT Young Achiever Awards, in the Sports Category and won the Peoples Choice. 

I am involved with Total Recreation, we have social activities, fitness and best of all is the Market Project.  In the market project I made ceramic cheese platters and sold them at Darwin markets. I also have learned ballroom dancing.   

I love to travel everywhere and have been on cruises, travelled to England and love going to Bali, it’s our second home, and only 2 hours by plane.  

I join the Down Syndrome Advisory Network Group with DSA, and help them with workshops on zoom.  I hope to go to the World DS Congress in Brisbane. 

Michael Cox, QLD 

Bright, passionate, and enthusiastic, Michael brings the following attributes to all that he does; 

·         Highly motivated with excellent communication and people skills 

·         Reliable and relatable 

·         Independent thinker with positive life outlook 

Applying the same dedication, focus and commitment that led Michael to achieve at the highest level in international swimming, Michael, now seeks to help people ad groups to bring out the best in themselves and sees health and fitness, equality and inclusion as the foundations for better living. 

Claire Mitchell, QLD

Associate member

Claire is a 35-year-old woman who is passionate about speaking for younger people with Down syndrome. She enjoys public speaking and has been involved in presenting at different organisations and at the University of Queensland. She is involved in a choir, has previously been involved in performance school and enjoys musical theatre. Claire is also very proud to be working part-time as an administrative assistant.