Meet the team

working together to achieve our mission

Thread Together is run by passionate individuals who believe in making a real change in the world. From the board, to the staff and the extensive communities of volunteers, every member of the team plays a part in Thread Together’s story.

Our board and team come from a range of industry backgrounds and bring valuable expertise to Thread Together. With deep empathy and common values, they support each other to help vulnerable people in our community while doing their part for the planet.

OUR BOARD

“We believe that disadvantage should not prevent people in our community from realising their potential. As well as providing the clothes that can change how people are perceived, the personal support that we provide restores optimism, confidence and self-esteem. ”

Andie Halas

Founder & Director

Andie brings extensive experience in journalism, PR, and marketing. She began as a writer and presenter at Austereo, honing her communication skills before managing corporate and political accounts at Corporate Kudos. She later led strategy and media buying for major brands like Esprit, the Just Group, and Seafolly. Driven by a passion for social impact, Andie founded Thread Together in 2012.

Gary Perlstein

Chairperson

Gary spent 27 years in fashion retail, including 14 as CEO of an ASX-listed multinational with over $1B in revenue. A strategic leader, he has driven growth, market expansion, and innovation across multiple brands. Known for building strong teams and fostering sustainable business models, he has led transformative initiatives. Gary joined Thread Together’s board in 2013 and became chair in 2022.

Anthony Halas

Director

With 25 years in fashion retail, Anthony is a seasoned executive in strategic leadership and business growth. At Seafolly, he played a key role in its rise as a global swimwear powerhouse. He holds multiple Board and advisory roles, applying his expertise in finance, operations, and brand development to drive innovation. Anthony joined the Thread Together board in 2012.

David Briskin

Director

David has a distinguished fashion and retail career, including as CEO of Sass & Bide, where he led its growth and global expansion. Known for his strategic vision and industry expertise, he drives innovation, profitability, and stakeholder engagement. In 2014, he founded Briskin Investments and Advisory, providing strategic guidance to domestic and international brands.

Ashleigh Morris

Director

Ashleigh, CEO of Coreo, Australia’s most awarded circular economy consultancy, advises governments and major companies, earning global recognition. She has spoken at the UN General Assembly, World Circular Economy Forums, and serves on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Legacy Committee. Since joining Thread Together’s board in 2022, she has been guiding the organization on circular economy principles and practices.

Nova Peris

Director

Nova Peris, the first Indigenous Australian to win Olympic gold and the first Aboriginal woman in Federal Parliament, is a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment, Indigenous representation, and social justice. She extends her leadership through board roles, supporting community-focused initiatives. With experience in sport and public service, she continues to drive inclusion and inspire change across Australia.

OUR TEAM

“It’s a privilege to work for Thread Together where we are making a significant impact to the environment and to those in need. Seeing the challenges that many vulnerable people face reaffirms the necessity of what we do and the importance of giving people in need new clothing without judgment.”