In Memory of Kellie Ireland

Many of you will have heard the sad news of IAA’s General Manager Kellie Ireland’s sudden and unexpected passing last month.

Kellie was the vibrant, welcoming face of the Association for many years and is going to be deeply missed by both colleagues and community, who’s personal and professional lives she touched.

Kellie joined IAA in 2012, back when the Association was known as WAIA, as a part time bookkeeper. Her dedication and commitment to the role led to her being promoted to Executive Officer. During her time she oversaw the rebranding and expansion of the Association, proposing and growing the team from just herself to five staff in only two years.

Kellie thrived on the challenges that the growth and change bought and enjoyed working in an environment that allowed her to develop herself. She was an advocate for women in technology and the driving force behind the Unplugged event series where she loved catching up with members, the Board Charter and many more exciting things to come in 2020, including more community workshops.

Kellie was also instrumental in setting up AKL-IX and in the establishment of the New Zealand Internet Exchange. She continuously worked to help the committee, providing daily business operation and governance support. Kellie travelled to New Zealand for the first time in June 2018 to attend the NZIX AGM, after which was fondly known as a token kiwi at the society. Her most prized item of clothing was also her NZNOG hoodie which she would often wear to the office.

In April 2019 Kellie’s achievements and exemplary work ethic led the board to promote her to General Manager of the Association. As IAA’s General Manager Kellie was committed to seeing the IX being a strong part of the Australian internet landscape and support its growth to new markets, as well as the renewed focus in the non-IX parts of the Association.

Kellie was an integral part of the Association. Her love for her work and the internet community was undeniable and the Association and the board are looking to continue the work that she started and was so passionate about.