Who We Are

Leigh loves life and loves doing life with others. His passion for surfing, fishing, the local church and the Coast is so evident. As Beachside’s lead pastor, he believes that life is better together and loves connecting people into the laid back but passionate church of Beachside. Leigh really does love seeing people become all God has made them to be. He has one beautiful wife, Shell and 3 growing up fast children, Riley, Tahlia and Indi..

Susannah is passionate about following Jesus, and thinks we don't just go to church, we are the church. In recent times, her heart has longed to return to the simplicity of the early church, to follow Christ, as disciples making disciples. She is currently working in Admin & Operations, helping Beachsiders with things such as services, events and communications. Susannah loves the sun, sand and surf and spending time with her hubby and daughter.

Marcos is our Brazilian import – hailing all the way from Sao Paulo. Marcos met his lovely wife Sam at YWAM Brazil and in 2016 followed her to Australia where he quickly became a much loved and valued member of the Beachside family. Marcos is a skater who is learning to surf and is passionate about music. He loves worship and encouraging others to worship God. He is an authentic role model for the younger generation in leading a life that is full of intimacy with God.

Karen is a wiz at anything administrative and a huge blessing to Beachside. She works one day a week at Beachside HQ, keeping us up-to-date with finances and a whole range of administrative duties. As well as being super organised she’s a keen kite surfer and paddle boarder, a DIY specialist, and devoted mum to Jack.

Rod is married to Amanda and has 4 brilliant kids. He has been blessed to walk with the Lord all his life and can testify that his life is rich following Jesus. He currently leads the Prayer Ministry and desires to encourage everyone to enjoy the great blessing of a life spent in daily relationship with God. Rod surfs (not enough), plays the piano, spends as much time with his family as he can and works as a Physiotherapist. He loves Beachside for its people; passionate, gifted and great to do life with.

Jennalee moved, with Brett, from Durban, South Africa to the Gold Coast - where they instantly fell in love with Beachsides relaxed and authentic culture. She has always felt a call to serve the local church as its Gods plan A to reveal himself to the world. As the current Groms pastor, she oversees the ministry that looks after and mentors the youngest members of the church - who she passionately believes have as important a role as the oldest! She loves teaching in classrooms and teaching the word of God. With three gorgeous children who love the outdoors and swimming - she is grateful to live on the Gold Coast!

Marcus is a seasoned musician and has done life and music in many parts of the world. He's not just an amazing musician he's a wonderful father of two children and he and his lovely wife have been living on the Gold Coast for many years. Marcus' longs to see worship touch our hearts as we connect to the heartbeat of Jesus. His creativity, passion, and enthusiasm for worship music is so valued at Beachside.

Geoff is part of the leadership team and is a great asset to the church. Over the years Geoff has been apart of the YWAM and been a missionary overseas. Geoff is the Head Chef at CYC Burleigh Heads. He has a beautiful wife and three wonderful children. He loves his music especially the bass, he loves drinking tea and loves to let his hair down. We just love Geoff at Beachside!

Chris is married to Mike and has two sons and a little grand daughter. She is a skilled counsellor and also is apart of the leadership team at Beachside. Her compassionate heart is so welcomed by many and her wisdom on the leadership team is invaluable. She loves the beach, her family and most all her Father in heaven.

Details to come