About Us
Our Mission
Our Vision
Our Values
Relationships
Positive relationships are at the core of everything we do. It is our number one priority over and above everything else. We believe that healthy, sustainable relationships can create value and positive long-term change in people.
Leadership
We always lead from the front and strive to create an environment where everyone can be at their best. We are proactive, think forward, and take ownership of our outcomes and self-development.
Reflection
We always reflect on the way that we work, treat people and interact in our relationships. We believe that understanding ourselves better leads to self-improvement in ourselves and the people around us. Make the change in your life that you want to see in others.
Valuing People
We believe that everyone has value and worth, which we reinforce through meaningful relationships, encouragement and support.
Encouragement
We encourage our participants and peers at all times. We always speak well of others under all circumstances. Positive words lead to positive outcomes. Encouragement lifts people to new heights and gives people the confidence they need to help break down the barriers in their life.
Our Leadership Team
Ross Barns
Founding Director
Brisbane native, Ross founded the HYPAR Group in 2008 following years of experience as a Youth Worker for Youth Justice Queensland and in youth crisis housing.
After identifying what additional supports could be offered to Young People within the YJ system to help them achieve their goals, Ross started a Mentoring program, and after some early momentum HYPAR was born.
Following years of building a reputation for positive outcomes, HYPAR was then invited to become a Child Safety licensed care organisation by the Department to help find a long-term housing solution for a Young Person they were Mentoring. As a result, HYPAR Residential Care was established in 2015 and has since grown to support 17 at-risk young males across the SE QLD region.
After seeing Young People thrive in outdoor environments, Ross founded HYPAR WILD in 2017—a service specialising in adventure therapy and outdoor education that encourages everyone to experience the benefits of the outdoors.
Jason Paag
Chief Executive Officer
Possessing over twenty years of management experience, and the personal journey associated with having three sons on the autism spectrum, Jason is driven to improve the lives of Young People.
Jason joined the HYPAR Group in 2014 working directly with our Young People, before taking the role as General Manager in 2015, and CEO in 2019. He holds a Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Science, and a Graduate Certificate in Business/Entrepreneurship.
Emily Gehrke
People & Culture Advisor
Emily brings over 12 years of Human Resources industry experience to HYPAR Group and holds a Diploma of Management, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Emily is passionate about employee engagement and establishing a positive workplace culture, and after recently entering motherhood a few years ago, she is excited to be part of an organisation that helps youth in the community.
Wendy Collins
HYPAR Service Manager
Wendy brings a wealth of Disability Sector experience to HYPAR, including managing specialist Disability Employment Services contracts and extensive Management and HR.
Wendy is a passionate people person and a current Red Cross Emergency Services volunteer, helping to deliver natural disaster recovery operations across the state of Queensland. Wendy is currently completing her Bachelor of Social Work and Counselling and holds a Diploma of Management.
Our Workforce
All HYPAR employees must have a minimum Certificate III or equivalent level qualification in youth work, disability services, or community services and hold eligible blue and yellow cards. Not only that, but all employees bring a wealth of training and life skills to their roles and strive for excellence in their work.
Before commencing employment, all employees undergo rigorous background and police checks and NDIS and CPR training to ensure we are operating within a safe environment at all times.
HYPAR also provides ongoing professional development opportunities for employees to facilitate professional growth and maintain industry best practices.
