The Academy of Light was originally founded by Rosemary and John Butterworth. After 22 yrs of devoted service through the Southern Cross Academy of Light / Academy of Light, and 12 years of weekly commutes to their farm they have permanently relocated to their beloved Jacaranda Haven. We are very pleased to announce that we have a new Committee of talented and dedicated souls - some new, some familiar - who have stepped up to assist in the running of AOL.
PRESIDENT - Gretel Ann Spiegel
Gretel studied metaphysics for eleven years with a Master, prior to evolving into a Holistic Healer. She is passionate about spiritual health, holistic healing, emotional wellbeing and helping people to tap into their own innate healing ability. She trained at the Nature Care College in Sydney and holds Diplomas in Reflexology, Remedial Massage, Meditation Facilitation and Holistic Wellness Coaching. She is also a Reiki master and trainer and holds a Certificate IV in Workplace Training & Assessment.
Gretel has had careers in accounting and travel prior to being contracted as a Clinical Reflexologist in the Supportive Care and Integrative Medicine program at the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, a designated cancer care hospital in Sydney. From 2013 until retirement in 2021 Gretel treated and supported patients during all stages of treatment and palliation. Gretel is currently a trainer at the Nature Care College in Sydney teaching Aromatherapy and runs a private healing practice. She has presented as a key note speaker for the Reflexology Associations of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, California and The International Council of Reflexologists.
She has been attending AOL on and off since 2012 and is looking forward to stepping into the role of President to connect with like minded individuals and to support the group during their awakening and ascension process.
VICE PRESIDENT - Maria Lambi
Maria Lambi’s introduction to the world of spirituality began at the Academy of Light back in 2009 and in December 2022 Maria was honoured to be one of the guest speakers.
Maria is a circle facilitator and has been hosting Soul Space Circles since 2017, creating a safe space for open minded souls to connect with themselves and each other at a deep soul level.
Maria has also facilitated meditations in corporate settings. Since April 2023 Maria has been enjoying a career break from her usual commercial management roles and has been exploring some spiritual ventures including training as a Lifeline Crisis Support Volunteer.
Maria is very much looking forward greater involvement in the Academy of Life in her new role as Vice President.
SECRETARY - Janet Hugh
I have had an interest in spirituality and healing modalities, completing many courses inc Reiki, Energy Healing, Numerology and Australian Bush Flower Essences. I have loved coming to AOL off & on for many years. The diversity of speakers/modalities and the wealth of wisdom in this group is amazing! I am looking forward to being further involved, supporting AOL and getting to know everyone.
TREASURER - Paulien Gort
I’m a Sound Healer and Family Constellations facilitator and run regular Sound Baths and facilitate Family Constellations workshops. I love to activate the body’s innate healing abilities through beautiful high vibrational sounds bringing more balance into people’s lives. And also to bring more ease and love in people’s family systems.
I have a background in working in the arts combined with finances while learning about spirituality and different healing modalities. I’ve been a member on different Committee’s in the arts in the Netherlands as well as in Australia.
I have been coming to the AOL for about fifteen years, and have enjoyed the wide range of interesting speakers that have enriched me and guided me in many ways.
Committee Member - Sharie Kennedy-Wren
Sharie worked in the financial services industry for 30 years and retired 5 years ago. She has always had an interest in spirituality and the metaphysical world. She has completed a number of courses including Numerology, crystal healing, colour therapy, energy healing exploring different systems and modalities for her personal interest. Recently she has been studying the Human Design system which has many facets including Astrology, Hindu chakras energy centres, the Kabbalah tree of life, I Ching and Quantum Physics which provides a deeper knowledge and understanding of who you are and your life purpose.
Sharie enjoys being involved in the Academy of Light connecting with like minded individuals and supporting the group as we all continue on our spiritual journey.
Committee Member - Ros Bongiorno
Ros is an Integrative Dietitian and Energy Practitioner. She combines her passion for nutrition with healing via energy work in her work with clients. With her background in science she is particularly interested in Quantum Physics and the technical aspects of our Soul.
She has been attending AOL since 2018 and joined the committee to help the group thrive and continue to provide a place for lightworkers to both learn and support each other on the north side of Sydney. She has taken on the secretarial duty and as a relatively new member she looks forward to meeting everyone in person as the year progresses.
Committee Member - Carmel Vowles
I have been supporting people for over 40 years who are experiencing profound grief and am passionate to journey with people to transform grief into gratitude changing limiting beliefs about the death process and feeling empowered for our own impending deaths and is a conversation to embrace.
Having been a hospital chaplain and more recently a death midwife, I have been journeying with people as a bowen therapist and counsellor and certified coach to support people to connect body, mind, soul to become more self aware to live more conscious lives.
Committee Member - Lean Kaw
I have a Finance Systems background & was involved with multiple technology start-ups until 2012 when I began my spiritual journey. Deep dived into Sumerian history, Bhagavadgita, Emerald Tablets of Toth, Zeta technologies, Shamanism & Exopolitics. I enjoy sharing & run a monthly meetup group in Redfern.
