Our Team
A strong, dedicated group of individuals has helped build Premier PR into a dynamic and progressive organisation that is now recognised as Victoria’s leading regional and rural communications agency.
Premier PR consultants are well known for their understanding of the relationship and processes that operate between relevant community groups and the media. We are unique in that the majority of our staff have very strong regional connections, coming from all corners of Victoria, but all have worked in either Melbourne or Canberra and are passionate about using that expertise to benefit the local community.
Joanna Stevens: Director
Joanna is the Director of Premier PR and Editor of Ballaratlifestyle magazine. Prior to establishing Premier PR in 2002, Joanna was a federal government communications advisor and with more than 15 years hands-on experience she possesses extensive skills in government relations, strategic communications and issues management.
Joanna is highly sought after for her strong network of business and political contacts in regional Victoria and with professional qualifications in journalism and public relations she is the ‘go to’ person for regional engagement. Joanna is a member of the influential Committee for Ballarat, Commerce Ballarat and the Public Relations Institute of Australia.
Email: jstevens@premierpr.com.au
Prue Rayner: Senior Communications Consultant
Prue is a senior communications consultant with Premier PR and has extensive experience in strategic communications and issues management.
Prue manages a range of clients drawn from local government, water and health sectors. In particular she was responsible for managing the communications for the Central Highlands Water Goldfields Superpipe, a communications strategy to support City of Ballarat’s Economic Strategy and the campaign to support the ‘New Residents Welcome Program’.
She has qualifications in the Arts (media and communications, sociology) and a postgraduate diploma in Public Relations.
Email: prayner@premierpr.com.au
Bernie O’Brien: Senior Communications Consultant
Bernie has 27 years experience in the communications industry as a writer, editor and designer. Having spent 21 years on regional daily newspapers, including several as a council reporter, Bernie has an in-depth knowledge of the issues and events that interest regional communities. Her experience as a senior journalist has involved working with staff and the public on numerous publications, initiatives and events.
Bernie provides strategic advice with the development of communications. She has managed many major clients including CFA, Investec Bank and Selkirk Group of Companies. Whether it is media releases, web pages, brochures, direct mails or newsletters, Bernie has the experience and expertise to provide a professional, creative product to suit any target audience.
Email: bobrien@premierpr.com.au
Rachael Kennedy: Event Consultant
With a flair for creativity and management Rachael is an important member of Premier PR’s communications team, particular in the area of event management. Rachael has been responsible for delivering a number of high profile events in Ballarat including the Ballarat Business Excellence Awards, ‘Beating the Binge’ campaign and the Ballarat Begonia Festival.
Rachael, who has a Bachelor of Arts (Public Relations) from Deakin University, Geelong, has an enthusiastic approach in her dealings with clients and colleagues.
Email: rkennedy@premierpr.com.au
Paula Sharry-Pierce: Consultant
With more than 10 years experience working in the events management and marketing industries in Ballarat, Paula joined Premier PR with a passion for marketing and project management.
During her time working with the City of Ballarat’s Major Events Unit, Paula was involved in some of the City’s hallmark events such as the National Road Cycling Championships, Ballarat’s Commonwealth Games Celebrations and the Ballarat Begonia Festival.
Paula’s skill for planning and implementing marketing campaigns is of a high standard. As Deputy Editor of the Ballaratlifestyle magazine and project manager of Bounce Network, Paula ensures clients receive great results every time.
Email: psharrypierce@premierpr.com.au
Clare Bigarelli: Executive Assistant
Clare has recently joined the Premier PR team after working for several years in the telecommunications sector. Clare brings a wealth of knowledge to Premier PR in the area of office management. She is highly organised providing excellent project management skills and vital support and assistance to the Premier PR team.
Email: cbigarelli@premierpr.com.au