Management

The Banfield Family have been have been with Willie Creek Pearls as Owners since 1989. Valda Banfield is Chairperson. In the early days Valda worked in all facets of the business and is now to be involved in the development of new ventures and getting projects up and running. Robert Banfield is Managing Director and concentrates on providing leadership and vision for the future expansion of the company. Darren Banfield is Financial Director and part owner and focuses his efforts on the portfolio’s financial matters.

Tony Maio – Chief Executive Officer

Tony is based in our Perth office and oversees development of new business products and new markets. Tony is an accountant by profession, and has been with the group for over 20 years. He leads the company on business improvement and company expansion.

Laurie Lord – Business Development Manager

Laurie has been with the company since March 1999 and during his time he has performed a variety of roles and is familiar with every facet of the business. He is currently located in our Perth office and oversees the complete retail operation, from sourcing and manufacturing of stock through to its distribution to market.

Gunilla Andersson – Financial Controller

Gunilla joined the company in August 2008 as Financial Controller. She brings to the company her extensive financial background which includes 10 years managing audit for Ernst & Young and several senior financial controlling roles in listed companies.

Anne Pesic – Group Marketing Manager

Anne joined the company in August 2010 as Group Marketing Manager. Anne has over 15 years experience in marketing, events, PR Communications, in various position in the mining, property, hospitality and retail industries. In this role Anne is responsible for the strategic marketing communications and the overall brand development for the portfolio.

Andrew Graffen – Operations Manager

Andrew joined the company in January 2008 and is our resident Marine Biologist, coupled with a dual role in managing the day to day operations of the company. Andrew has worked at other Pearl Farms internationally, and brings a wealth of technical knowledge to the company.

Melissa Moir – Human Resource Coordinator

Melissa joined the company in August 2010 and manages the total employment function for the company; including payroll and recruitment. Melissa has over 20 years experience in a variety of roles within the finance sector.

History of the Willie Creek Name


In the mid 1800's during the pearl shell industry, over 400 luggers were working out of Broome, spreading anywhere up the Kimberley coast line. During the cyclone season, they would sail to find the closest harbour possible, and this was, Willie Creek with the shelter of the mangroves was one of those traditional places. Also "Willie Willie" is the aboriginal word for a cyclone.

Willie Creek is a tidal estuary and is fed by the ocean, and a perfect location for growing our Australian South Sea pearls.