About ACRAA
Our Vision
To cultivate a thriving community of retailers and suppliers united by collaboration, continuous learning, and professional growth. enriching our sector and contributing to cultural integrity, sustainability and commercial innovation.
Our Mission
To empower our members through collaboration, advocacy, learning, and professional development. Fostering excellence in retailing and contributing to the vitality and integrity of the sector.
Meet the Board (2026)
The Association of Cultural Retailers Australian and Aotearoa is run by a volunteer Executive Board made up of elected representatives from member organisations across Australia and New Zealand and a Supplier Members' representative who is appointed by the Board.
Board members are elected for two year terms.
If you are interested to learn more about what is involved as a member of the board please contact us.
ALICIA HARRIS | Sharon SikkemasecretarySharon has been at the helm of the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre as the centre coordinator since 2001, transforming it into a thriving destination that brings history to life for thousands of visitors each year. She oversees everything from displays and maintenance to the shop and visitor experience. Sharon has been a proud member of ACRAA for 20 years, serving as Secretary and receiving Life Membership for her outstanding contributions to the industry. Her dedication to collaboration and professional standards has shaped best practices for the organisation. | Karyn Watson
TREASUrer & New Zealand RepresentativeKaryn is the Retail Manager for Tāmaki Paenga Hira, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and brings more than 25 years of Retail experience with roles across both New Zealand and Australia that vary from Store Management to Product Development, Logistics to Quality Assurance. Overseeing all retail operations for the Museums three retail channels Hokohoko: The Museum Store, Online Store and the Special Exhibition Store. Karyn is responsible for the commercial direction of Retail within the Museum. |
Nick StewartAustralia RepresentativeNick is the Retail Manager at the Australian War Memorial, leading large-scale retail redevelopment projects, expanding onsite and online offerings and embedding retail as a meaningful part of the visitor experience. With over 20 years experience driving transformation across major national institutions, including the Australian Institute of Sport, Questacon, and the Museum of Australian Democracy. A passion for building high-performing teams, modernising systems, collaboration and sustainability within the cultural retail sector. Contact Nick | Alice AckleyAustralia RepresentativeAlice is the Marketing and Retail Manager at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station on the South Coast of Western Australia, where she has spent the past 14 years shaping and elevating the site’s visitor experience. This diverse role encompasses leadership of the front-of-house team, management of retail and ticketing operations, group bookings, and the coordination of marketing activity across the organisation. Alice brings a strong foundation in retail, beginning her career in kitchenware before moving into the tourism and cultural sector. Contact Alice | Yvonne RugeSupplier Representative
Yvonne is the Designer and Founder of Originals Lab, a Melbourne-based business dedicated to providing unique and iconic jewellery and accessories that reflect the style of Australia.
Yvonne is committed to creating original designs that draw inspiration from Australia's natural beauty and diverse culture. With a comprehensive background in business management and design, Yvonne brings expertise to work across all facets of buisiness with skills and knowledge gained through 20+ years of experience in related roles. |