Jennifer Atfield

Sport and Recreation Coordinator - South

Jen joined NHT in 2023 as the South Sport & Recreation Coordinator. She came to the role after working for a Not-For-Profit organisation in Darwin for five years. Jen’s desire to take on this role with NHT stemmed from her interest in working with people living with disability – in particular, providing them with opportunities in sport, recreation, travel and social activities.

No day is ever the same in her role, which sees Jen planning and coordinating programs, events and expos, as well as mentoring the South Assistant Coordinator (Callum Ring) and volunteers. Jen’s time is also spent panning clinics and events, working with coaches to support members and engaging with schools, the community, volunteers and various other providers.

Jen finds her role deeply rewarding and says the satisfaction she receives from seeing how much joy and fulfilment members receive from being a part of something so extraordinary is priceless. She loves the diversity of the role and being able to create unique and life-changing experiences for NHT members, their families/support and NHT’s volunteers. In being part of building a club where everyone is welcome, Jen says staff and members alike get the opportunity to be the best version of themselves.

Originally from NSW, Jen grew up in Sydney’s smallest suburb, Northwood, on the Lane Cove River. Before joining NHT, Jen trained as a musician (as a voice major but also trained in piano, bassoon and percussion) at the NSW State Conservatorium of Music, Outdoor Recreation, Fitness and Hotel and Catering Management.

Jen has led a fascinating and interesting life, including a two-year stint living on Norfolk Island (1400Kms off the coast of Byron Bay); working as a Trekking Guide on the 96Km Kokoda Track in the jungle of Papua New Guinea and working as a sea kayaking guide in Far North QLD.

When she’s not at work impacting and enriching the lives of our Southern members, Jen loves to travel, visit friends and family, create a colourful and edible garden and spend time in nature. Married to Andrew, she has two step-daughters and is looking forward to getting a puppy one day soon!

Jen loves adventure travel and cultural experiences, enjoying great food (and equally great company), kayaking, sailing, bushwalking, cycling, gardening, singing, volunteering, and spending time with family and friends.

Our Southern members are so grateful to have such a warm, caring, enthusiastic and dedicated Sport & Recreation Coordinator on board to guide, mentor, lead and inspire our amazing members. Since joining NHT only two years ago, Jen has transformed our Southern programs – and we’re equally delighted to have her as a part of the NHT Team.