Melissa has led The Big Bake Up since its inception, guiding the organisation with steadfast dedication and a strong commitment to supporting others.

 

Her leadership is defined by initiative, compassion, and an unwavering drive to make a positive impact. When Melissa identifies a need, she takes decisive action, embodying the values of service and community care that underpin The Big Bake Up’s mission.

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In addition to her leadership role, Melissa contributes to various community organisations, including the local community council, all while managing a busy household of five boys. Before establishing The Big Bake Up in Wakefield, she successfully led Beyond the Bridge, a Riwaka-based not-for-profit that earned national recognition for its vital work during the Gita flooding.

Every team benefits from having someone who brings both positivity and care to those around them. Brent contributes to The Big Bake Up not only with his good humor but also with a deep sense of empathy and practical expertise—qualities that are essential when conducting welfare checks following natural disasters.

 

With over 11 years of service as a volunteer firefighter, Brent demonstrates compassion and sound judgment in situations that require sensitivity and attention.

 

As the co-founder of The Big Bake Up, he also plays a key role on the technical front, overseeing complex projects and managing logistical operations with precision and dedication.

Rhys Black lives in Wakefield, Tasman, and is passionate about community, connection, and making a difference close to home. He enjoys getting involved in local projects that bring people together, support families, and help strengthen the sense of belonging that makes our community special.

 

Rhys believes in practical action and kindness — whether that’s lending a hand at local events, helping with community initiatives, or supporting causes that make life a little easier for others.

 

While Rhys’ culinary skills may rival his dulled knives at home, his enthusiasm, initiative, and genuine passion for community projects are razor-sharp. He is excited to play his part in The Big Bake Up family and is eager to contribute fresh ideas that bring people together in one big community mixing bowl—for a truly good cause.

Jamie lives in Wakefield, Tasman. He is a 6th generation local who was raised on a farm near Wakefield and has predominantly lived in Wakefield. Jamie is married to Leah and they have 3 children together. Jamie is a Senior Constable in the New Zealand Police and has been based at Wakefield station as one of the rural Constables for over 8 years.

 

Jamie has a passion for helping people in need and it was during the Pigeon Valley fires that he first witnessed Melissa and The Big Bake Up volunteers in action. Frontline Policing brings Jamie into contact with many people who face all kinds of tragedies and difficult situations. The team at The Big Bake Up have always been able to assist in partnering him in helping bring some practical kindness and cheer to those in need.

 

Jamie believes in the ethos of The Big bake Up and is looking forward to partnering with them. It is exiting to see Melissa and Brent’s dream come to life and Jamie feels privileged to contributing to the board in whatever way he can.

Having lived in the Nelson Region for 36 years, and in Wakefield for the last five years, Jane has been involved in The Big Bake Up cook ups since 2022 and loves being part of providing kai for those in need or experiencing hard times.

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Jane has 3 adult daughters, 4 mokopuna and has been involved in community for as long as she can remember through various roles and organisations. Playcentre, School Boards, Plunket and now through her mahi at Te Wana Trust, supporting a range of community organisations across Aotearoa NZ and Australia in quality improvement systems, organisational development and accreditation.

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Taking on the Treasurer portfolio for The Big Bake Up – Jane processes payments and provides reports to, and on behalf of the Board.