Meet the Team
Steph Brake
Founder & Director
I am a strategic adviser based in Lutruwita/Tasmania who specialises in facilitating complex public reform processes where multiple perspectives, systems and interests intersect. My work focuses on helping organisations move from fragmented conversation to coherent direction, designing structured engagement and strategy processes that enable difficult issues to be explored and translated into practical pathways forward.
With more than a decade in senior roles within Tasmania’s public health system, I developed a strong foundation in policy development, program design and cross-agency reform. Through Gather & Ground, I now work independently with government agencies, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and community sector leaders navigating complex systems change.
I am often engaged when work requires independence, careful facilitation and trust. Projects I’ve led typically involve coordinating multiple agencies, supporting strategic reform or co-designed, place-based initiatives that bring together lived experience, workforce insight and system perspectives. Rather than acting as the technical expert in the room, my role is to hold the space where expertise can surface, helping diverse stakeholders align around evidence, place-based realities and shared priorities.
Much of my work occurs in culturally sensitive environments where relational integrity is critical. As a non-Aboriginal practitioner, I approach this work as an ally, prioritising listening, cultural respect and ensuring Aboriginal leadership and community voices shape the direction of the work.
Through Gather & Ground, I enjoy working with leaders and organisations who need a trusted independent partner to help hold complex processes and translate insight into clear, place-informed action.
Outside consulting, I serve on the Board of Playgroup Tasmania and volunteer as an operational firefighter with the Tasmanian Fire Service. I am also an avid hiker and have led expeditions across our beautiful island of Lutruwita / Tasmania to raise funds for men’s health as one of Australia’s Movember Community Ambassadors. When not out in the wilderness you will find me enjoying home life with the family on our rural property.
Martina Wyss
Associate Director
I am a senior health leader and service design specialist with extensive experience across Tasmania’s health system. My career spans clinical practice, executive leadership and system-level reform, enabling me to bridge frontline service delivery with governance, quality and policy development.
I care deeply about driving meaningful reform across the health system, improving health outcomes, making care more person-centred, strengthening the workforce, and advancing equity. Over the years, I have led large-scale reform efforts and supported grassroots initiatives, always working to bring people together to create lasting change.
My approach is grounded in systems thinking. Whether it is designing services for mental health and chronic conditions management, developing health and wellbeing strategies, or building more integrated models of care. I work closely with government, health providers, community organisations, peak bodies, and people with lived experience to shape solutions that are practical and inclusive.
I am guided by data and evidence, but I also know that data does not tell the whole story. Real change happens when we listen deeply, work alongside communities, and design with people, not for them. I value curiosity, rigour and respect in everything I do, and I am always keen to connect with others who are passionate about creating healthier, fairer systems.
Like Steph, outside of consulting, I am actively involved in my own community and maintain a strong connection to nature. I feel most grounded and energised when I am immersed in nature. Whether trail running, cycling, kayaking, or working in the garden, being connected to nature is where I recalibrate, build resilience, sharpen my thinking, and remind myself of the broader systems we are part of.