Wendy and Rod Brooks were both born and educated in Geelong, their early lives shaped by the rich sense of community that regional living can offer. Over the years, their careers took them far beyond the Surf Coast—spending time studying, working and living internationally, including in Zimbabwe, before settling for a period in Melbourne. Today, they have returned to the region they know so well, now calling Fairhaven home.
Their professional journeys reflect a deep commitment to both expertise and impact. Wendy brings a unique combination of creative and analytical thinking, with qualifications in music (viola) and law. Rod’s background in veterinary science, combined with a Masters in Business and Marketing, complements this with a strong strategic lens. Together, through their consultancy Wendy Brooks & Partners, they have spent the past 14 years working alongside hundreds of community sector organisations—helping them to grow, diversify income streams, and build sustainable futures through philanthropy.
Despite their diverse careers, one thread has remained constant: a belief in the power of the arts.
For Wendy and Rod, access to arts and culture isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. Their decision to support Regional Arts Victoria is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: that every young person, regardless of where they live, deserves the opportunity to experience high-quality arts.
Beyond their personal donation to RAV’s YEAH! 2025 campaign, Wendy and Rod also found a creative way to bring their community into the giving journey. Working alongside local fundraising champion Rebecca Hosking, they hosted an intimate musical soirée in their Fairhaven home in support of the Aireys Inlet campaign. Drawing on Wendy’s musical background, the event brought together friends and neighbours for a shared arts experience—while also inviting each guest to contribute to the cause. The event not only raised valuable funds but reflected the Brooks’ belief that generosity and creativity can go hand in hand, strengthening both community connection and support for the arts.
“We are passionate about ensuring everyone has access to quality arts experiences—particularly children in regional areas.”
Having lived both within and beyond regional communities, they understand the disparities that can exist when it comes to cultural access. Distance, resources and opportunity can all create barriers, but organisations like RAV play a vital role in breaking these down. This is what resonates most strongly with them.
“We are delighted to support RAV in bringing arts programs to regional schools.”
For Wendy and Rod, supporting RAV is about investing in creativity at a grassroots level, ensuring that young people in regional Victoria can engage with the arts in meaningful, inspiring ways. It’s about opening doors, sparking imagination, and contributing to communities that are vibrant, connected and culturally rich.
Their story is a reminder that giving back can take many forms but, at its heart, it’s about strengthening the places and people we care about most.
Posted 8 April 2026