Our Team
Dale Keehne
Chief Executive Officer
Dale Keehne took on the role of Chief Executive Officer in July 2019, bringing a wealth of experience to the East Arnhem Regional Council.
Dale has a strong background in supporting community development in the Northern Territory and beyond, including interstate and overseas work. He returned to East Arnhem Land, where he first established connections over 20 years ago.
During his previous five-year tenure with East Arnhem Regional Council, Dale served as the Director of Community Services and also acted as CEO at times.
His commitment lies in ensuring that the Council fulfils its purpose of serving and empowering the Yolngu people in all six communities of East Arnhem Land. This will be achieved through ongoing support for the capacity and voice of their Local Authority, active collaboration and partnerships with other stakeholders, and a streamlined focus on community-centered administration.
Shannon Cervini
Director – Council Services
Shannon Cervini was appointed to Director – Council Service at East Arnhem Regional Council (EARC) in August 2026. Shannon brings over six years of experience working in East Arnhem Land, with extensive experience managing complex community services, municipal operations and multidisciplinary teams.
Working closely with Elected Members, Local Authorities, government agencies, community organisations and internal stakeholders, Shannon ensures that Council Services remain responsive, culturally appropriate and aligned with Council's strategic priorities. He is committed to strengthening the vital services delivered across the directorate, including Council Services, Municipal Services, Waste and Environment, Community Night Patrol, the Sobering Up Shelter, and Animal Management, which play a key role in supporting East Arnhem communities. Shannon’s leadership approach is grounded in cultural respect, genuine engagement and listening to community voices. Through strong collaboration and engagement, Shannon provides strategic oversight and operational leadership across Council operations.
As the Director – Council Services, Shannon is focused on ensuring Council continues to deliver high-quality, sustainable services across the region.
Divyan Ahimaz
Director – Community Services
As Director – Community Services, Divyan brings extensive experience across leadership, business development and communications, developed through senior roles in both national and international organisations.
With a business degree providing a strong strategic foundation, Divyan leads with a practical, outcome-focused approach that balances service sustainability with community needs. His background includes working with international NGOs such as International Justice Mission and Mission Aviation Fellowship, where he supported people-centred programs focused on justice, protection, access and community wellbeing in highly complex and remote settings.
In his role at East Arnhem Regional Council, Divyan supports the Council’s vision and direction by leading development strategies and programs that deliver sustainable, community-driven outcomes. He is a strong advocate for Community Services and the breadth of services delivered across the directorate, including child care services, youth services, active communities, library services, disability services, and aged care, supporting the people of East Arnhem Land through all life stages.
Divyan works with stakeholders at all levels, including community organisations, service providers, government agencies, and Council staff, to ensure services are responsive, practical, and established in local priorities.
Divyan’s leadership is collaborative and grounded. He focuses on creating environments where both staff are supported, trusted, and accountable. His commitment to Community Services is driven by two clear priorities: strengthening service delivery to improve access, equity, and outcomes for communities, and supporting staff through safe, respectful workplaces where they are valued, supported, and able to perform at their best.
Sonia Campbell
General Manager – Technical and Infrastructure Services
Sonia Campbell was appointed General Manager - Technical and Infrastructure Services at East Arnhem Regional Council in September 2025.
