“If you come away learning just one thing, then it’s worth it,” is a philosophy that has guided Lainie Poon throughout her career — one shaped by curiosity, continuous learning, and a commitment to creating meaningful impact across diverse industries and communities.

With more than 20 years of experience spanning customer service, finance, sport, small business ownership, governance, and regional development, Lainie brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement to her leadership of Regional Development Australia Tropical North (RDATN).

Since joining RDATN in 2019, Lainie has played an integral role in delivering the organisation’s vision to strengthen the region’s economic resilience and liveability. She has supported the implementation of the Tropical North Economic Development Strategy 2024–2029, championed collaboration across the RDA Network, and built enduring partnerships with industry, all levels of government, and community stakeholders.

Lainie’s career highlights include:

• Twice being named a National Finalist in the NAB Women in Finance Awards for her Creating Wealthy Women seminar series.
• Contributing to the Cairns Business Women’s Club as both Board Member and Awards Finalist.
• Scaling a professional tennis coaching business from six to over 500 clients in New Zealand.
• Serving five years as Chair of a 120-apartment Body Corporate Committee, achieving strong financial performance and governance.

Lainie holds professional certifications in governance and stakeholder engagement through the Governance Institute of Australia and IAP2 Australasia, and remains an active member of networks that foster leadership, collaboration, and community impact.

Her leadership of RDATN reflects her passion for empowering people, connecting communities, and delivering practical outcomes that make the Tropical North one of Australia’s most vibrant and opportunity-rich regions.