Meet your Executive Committee: Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce
The Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce is proudly supported by a dedicated Executive Committee of local volunteers. Each member brings valuable experience and insight, reflecting the diverse nature of our business and community landscape. Under the leadership of President Luke Hadfield, the Committee works collaboratively to strengthen local business, support community initiatives, and advocate for the Camden Haven region.
Executive Team
President: Luke Hadfield
Vice President: Chan Ansell
Treasurer: Amy Vandenhurk
Secretary/Public Officer: Rachael Thorpe
Committee Members
Jennifer Peters
Katherine Asquith
Michelle Freeman
Jacob Asquith
Chan Ansell
Chan is the Client Account Manager – Advertising for News Of The Area, working across the Camden Haven and Port Macquarie editions. As Vice President of the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce, she is passionate about supporting local businesses, strengthening connections and helping the region thrive.
A strong advocate for shopping local and supporting the businesses that make the Camden Haven special, Chan enjoys building genuine relationships with business owners and finding opportunities to help them grow through affordable, effective advertising and community promotion.
Chan believes collaboration is key to a strong local economy and is committed to working alongside fellow Chamber members to promote local businesses, encourage community engagement and support the continued growth of the Camden Haven region.
She is always happy to connect with local business owners, share ideas and explore ways to support and strengthen the local business community.
Michelle Freeman
Michelle has been a Funeral Arranger for seven years, a path inspired by arranging two family funerals and realising how overwhelming the process can feel. That experience sparked her calling to gently guide families with warmth, clarity, and patience.
She treasures being part of the Laurieton community, offering support that continues long after the service. Whether helping shape a meaningful farewell or sharing a quiet cup of tea, Michelle believes care doesn’t end at the funeral.
At Simplicity Funerals, she values the blend of genuine compassion and straightforward guidance, ensuring every family feels understood and supported. Thank you, Michelle, for the kindness and dedication you bring to every family you serve.
Rachael Thorpe
Rachael is a passionate community advocate who moved to Dunbogan 15 months ago from Canberra. A 54 year old mother of three adult children, she balances part time administration work for a solar and electrical business with writing for News Of The Area and active involvement in disability and accessibility advocacy.
She is committed to seeing the Camden Haven become as accessible and inclusive as possible, with a vision for the region to lead the Mid North Coast in these areas. Rachael brings thoughtfulness and lived experience to her advocacy, always looking for practical ways to improve connection and participation for everyone in the community.
Outside of work and volunteering, her interests include genetic genealogy, travel, musicals and live comedy, pursuits that reflect her curiosity, creativity and love of people and stories.