ALVA – Australian Ladies' Variety Association

President – Susie Smither

Susie Smither has dedicated her life to weaving performance, fashion, and philanthropy into a rich tapestry that defines her remarkable career. Her journey began on stage as a gifted dancer/singer, performing with the cabaret trio Triple Treat – a venture that earned an Ace Award and five Mo Awards over 25 years for its live vocal variety excellence.
As the act thrived, Susie expanded her horizons by co‑founding Triple Treat Promotions, a company that would seamlessly merge entertainment with event management, producing everything from children’s talent quests and pantomimes to character activations, runway shows and events.

Her flair for style naturally led her into the world of fashion, where she spent more than a decade as a Fashion Project Manager for David Jones. In this role, she orchestrated seasonal fashion events across 16 stores in three states, masterminding everything from store openings and book launches to celebrity appearances and food‑tasting experiences. Meanwhile, Triple Treat Promotions continued to flourish, offering a diverse portfolio of projects including fresh food & fashion workshops, celebrity chef interviews, talent quests & model comps.

Susie’s passion for communication also found its home in presenting and MC duties. She has interviewed and toured with stars in fashion, dance, television, and food, and contributed significantly to high‑profile productions.

Since 1982, Susie’s commitment to the Australian Ladies’ Variety Association (ALVA) has been unwavering. She joined the committee in 1997, served as Secretary in 2003, stepping into the role of Vice President under Maria Venuti in 2004, and became ALVA President in 2005. Her longstanding leadership was honoured in 2019 when she received ALVA’s prestigious “Honours” Award for 15 years of presidency and exceptional service.

After 20 years as President and having navigated a series of significant personal challenges, Susie courageously transitioned to a new role – ensuring the association benefits from her invaluable experience while welcoming new leadership energy for continued growth. Susie is continuing to balance a full-time career as a producer, performer, and entrepreneur, and in 2025, continues to serve the committee in not one but two key roles – Vice President and Secretary.

Through every role, whether entertaining audiences, crafting unforgettable events or guiding ALVA – Susie Smither has demonstrated a rare blend of creativity, leadership, and generosity. Her career is a testament to the impact one person can make by bringing passion and purpose to everything they do.

Vice President – Di Georgeson

Di started singing on radio 2SM’s The Gang and at 14 won the Coca Cola Talent Quest on 2UE.  Her professional career took off at 16 on teenage TV shows 6 O’Clock Rock, Sing Sing Sing, Teen Time and The Youth Show. She then joined NLT Talent School for Channel 9 and was a regular on Mobil Limb Show, Australian Singalong and Bandstand, Melbourne Tonight, Adelaide Tonight and The Rex Mossop TV Variety Show. She also worked at nightclubs Chequers, Romanos and Taboo at Kings Cross.    

In the cabaret club scene, Di supported many international acts including Des O’Connor, Gene Pitney, The Platters, Bobby Rydell, Toni Christie and Warren Mitchell.  She has appeared at Wrest Point Casino, on cruise ships, and as a partner in Sentimental Productions. Di has performed in many shows at the Sydney Town Hall and AJC Randwick Racecourse, and with many with Big Bands including the Australian Army Band.   Her greatest thrills have been to perform in the Great Hall Parliament House Canberra and being chosen to sing the Vera Lynn songs for 3 shows at the Sydney Entertainment Centre for the 50th Anniversary of the end of WW2, appearing with Jacqui Trent, Tony Hatch and our own Slim DeGrey.  Di retired after 49 years in the biz.  

As a founding Member of Australian Ladies Variety Association and twice recipient of “Golden Girl Award”, Di has served on various committees over the years, and is very much involved on committee, whose aim is to make sure show business friends are always cared for.

Treasurer – Pat Scroope

Pat Scroope was one of the original Charter members and has been involved with ALVA for most of her life. The wife of Australian Actor Doug Scroope, Pat has been an incredibly active in many of the committee positions over the years. A bookkeeper by trade, it didn’t take long for Pat to become the Treasurer. Over the years, Pat has juggled full time employment along with being Treasurer, Membership Manager and sometimes Secretary of this very busy charity. Pat has always been involved in ALVA’s Benevolence. In 2005, the committee, recognising the huge work load of the Treasurer’s position, decided to divide the job between herself and another committee member. It was at this time that Pat started training Kerri in her role as Treasurer, whilst she continued to work with the many benevolent cases. Pat returned to the Treasurer’s position in 2020 and has continued to tirelessly manage both the Treasurer and Benevolent Treasurer’s role. She is also the person in charge of our properties and investments. 

 Pat keeps everyone on the committee on their toes, making sure the processes for ALVA are in good working order. She reminds us of our public obligations and ensures that ALVA has enough funds to help whoever may need assistance. 

Secretary – Kerri Lacey

Kerri Lacey is a multi award winning entertainer with a number of MO Awards to her credit. Kerri trained at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music and has a Masters in Performance on Bassoon. Kerri not only performs in the duo Just Jammin’, singing and playing keyboards, but she also performs in the 6 piece band “Dig This”, and is a member of the cast for a variety of Production shows where she shows her talent in Drama and comedy. Kerri is also a Secondary Music Teacher currently working at Kirrawee High School. It is here that she uses her extensive knowledge of the entertainment industry to assist the up and coming young performers to achieve their goals. She also owns Klerrisa Custom Music, which is an educational portal designed to help music teachers and students here in Australia and around the world. And to top it off, she is also a photographer who has had her work recognised globally.

When Kerri is not engaging in all of these activities, she is working on and for ALVA. She started on the committee in 2004 when Maria Venuti was President. Since joining, Kerri has served as Treasurer from 2005 – 2014 and Secretary from 2015 – 2024. In 2025, Kerri briefly stepped away to focus on family but has rejoined in 2026 in the Secretary role.

Public Officer – Kathy Watson

Kathy’s bio coming soon.

Committee Member – Karen Beckett

Karen grew up in Perth Western Australia where she performed regularly on children’s television. Karen was chosen, while still at high school, to take on the position of resident vocalist at Perth’s top nightclub, Romanos. After her move to Sydney, Karen began working on the NSW club, Convention and television circuits. This led Karen to audition for, and eventually win the 10 Network’s “You’re a Star” quest. This gave her the chance to perform a cabaret season at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. 

Since her return to Australia, Karen has appeared on all the major TV shows including the Mike Walsh Show, Don Lane Show, Parkinson in Australia, Ray Martin Show, Bert Newton, Hey Hey, Midday Shows as well as many regional appearances. Karen is a regular performer on various cruise lines including Cunard, and Royal Carribean, just to name a few. 

In between travelling the globe, Karen takes time to be an active member of ALVA. She has been on committee several times, the most recent since 2015. Whilst she does lead a hectic schedule, Karen is always ready to help her fellow entertainer, whether it be by providing the infamous “Beckett Biscuits” at a function or providing transport via the equally famous “Beckett Bus”. Karen has a huge heart that has enough room for everyone. 

Committee Member – Mary Bradford

Mary Gregory Bradford has been a dedicated supporter and active member of ALVA (Australian Ladies Variety Association) since 2005.

As Co-owner, Licensee, and Managing Director of The Major Oak Theatre Restaurant—Sydney’s last authentic theatre restaurant—since 1998, Mary has played a vital role in the entertainment landscape. Her work ensured quality live performance remained at the heart of the venue’s success.

Her leap into the world of entertainment was a significant and transformative career change, one that she calls a “culture shock,” but one she tackled with heart, humour, and professionalism. At her core, she affectionately describes herself as “essentially a Muggle at heart.”

Mary served three years on the Australian Entertainment MO Awards Board, during which time she co-produced three highly successful MO Awards shows and programmes. Her dedication extended beyond the spotlight, working tirelessly to raise funds and support fellow performers in times of hardship.

Mary, married to Bobby Bradford, also treasures her connection to much-loved entertainers Bobby & Jean Dennis, who were not only family but also industry icons.

Mary has recently downsized her business commitments and looks forward to giving back to the industry she cherishes – now as part of the ALVA committee.

Committee Member – Lisa Crouch

Lisa Crouch is considered by her fans and peers to be one of the most unique “Powerhouse” entertainers in the industry. She has an amazing vocal style, energy to burn and a natural, infectious sense of humour. Lisa is incredibly down to earth and it is this part of her personality that audiences love.  Lisa began her career as a classical singer at Newcastle Conservatorium of Music and has gone on to perform in musical theatre, cabaret shows, jingles, and cruise liners. She has toured nationally and internationally with her solo cabaret show.  Lisa is one of Australia’s finest female vocal entertainers and her outstanding talent has been recognised by the Entertainment Industry at a variety of events. Lisa is a multi-award winning entertainer who regularly performs her production show “Powerhouse Divas” and her new show, “Experience the Divine – An Evening with Bette Midler”.  She also performs with her six piece retro band “Dig This” and her musical duo “Just Jammin”.

Despite Lisa’s busy schedule, she still finds time to be an active member of ALVA. Since joining in 2004, Lisa went from committee member to Vice President fairly quickly. She loves to help and you will often find her doing everything from picking up tables to welcoming guests at a function. Lisa can be relied upon to help in any situation. She was Vice President from 2006 – 2025, briefly stepping down to focus on family. In 2026, Lisa rejoined the committee and is looking forward to continuing her support of this charity.

Committee Member – Merredene Hall

Merredene Hall has long been a quiet yet steadfast supporter of the Australian live entertainment industry. A career librarian by profession, her peaceful world was forever changed when she became the partner of beloved ALVA bloke and entertainer Marty Morton, with whom she shared over 20 years.

Merredene stood by Marty through the highs of show business and the challenges of his cancer journey, caring for him with unwavering love and devotion until his passing in 2024.

Though naturally reserved, Merredene is a familiar and respected presence at countless industry luncheons, awards nights, and ALVA events. Behind the scenes, she played a vital role in supporting Marty’s performances across NSW—often as the quiet achiever, always organised and dependable.

Now, with that same quiet strength and dedication, Merredene looks forward to bringing her energy and experience to the ALVA Committee, ready to give back to the community that has given her so much pleasure.

Committee Member – Monique Montez

Multiple award winning vocalist Monique Montez has performed in many facets of the entertainment industry, making her a force to be reckoned with. Her captivating stage presence has wowed audiences worldwide, and she has hired and admired by the likes of Sir Richard Branson, Richard Pratt and Baz Luhrmann.

From musical theatre & cabaret, to television & the corporate world, Monique’s career spans over an amazing 23 years. Starring in Saturday Night Fever, We Will Rock You, Dusty The Original Pop Diva, Fiddler On The Roof and Dusty The Concert, she has also supported acts like Hollywood Legend Micky Rooney, Taylor Dane, The Drifters, Tom Burlinson, Human Nature & Sneaky Sound System to name a few.

Her career is dynamic & diverse, with television appearances on All Saints, GMA, Fresh, The Footy show, Kerri Anne, Carols in the Domain & Foxtel’s Channel V. More recently, Monique won the coveted “Female Vocalist of the Year” at the ACE Awards (Australia Club Entertainment).

Monique became a member of ALVA many years ago and in 2017, joined the ALVA committee. She took a small break but is back to help all. We are so excited to have Monique on the Committee. 

Committee Member – Gayle Wakeling-Taylor

Gayle has been an active member of ALVA since 2003. She started dancing professionally in 1968, taught dancing from 1976, and specialises in treating people with disabilities and spinal dysfunction through Pilates, massage and vibration training.  Gayle has over 30 years experience in the fitness industry, and in that time has been able to provide rehabilitation and core strengthening work to literally thousands of clients.  Gayle has the ability to give individual attention to a class of varying ages and stages, and makes you feel completely comfortable with your own abilities. She has an extensive comprehension of physical abilities & limitations, and is able to tailor exercises in a group to accommodate any problems.Her enthusiasm and encouragement enable her to be an integral member of the ALVA Committee. Gayle put her hand up to be the Treasurer in 2015 and has not looked back. She is usually the first person you see at the function and always with a smiling face and quick wit. In 2020, Gayle moved back into a committee role.