Hand Heart Pocket is pleased to announce a planned leadership transition, with Craig Reimers elected as Chairman as Alasdair Begley completes his term as Chairman.
Acknowledging Alasdair Begley’s leadership
Since 2017, Alasdair’s leadership has shaped a period of transformation and impact for Hand Heart Pocket. Under his stewardship, the organisation strengthened governance, deepened engagement with Members, and supported more than 5,200 young people across Queensland and Papua New Guinea to achieve meaningful life outcomes.
At the December 2025 Quarterly Communications meeting held at the Masonic Memorial Centre, Alasdair announced he planned to step down as Chairman of the Board after more than six years in the role, having served on the Board since 2017.
“Serving as Chairman has been one of the great honours of my life. To see Hand Heart Pocket grow in purpose and impact, to witness the difference we’ve made in young people’s lives, and to work alongside such committed Members and partners has been deeply fulfilling. I leave knowing the organisation is in excellent hands with Craig’s leadership,” Alasdair said.
A farewell event for Alasdair will be held in March 2026, providing an opportunity for Members, partners, and stakeholders to acknowledge his significant contribution to the organisation.
We thank Alasdair for his exceptional leadership and warmly welcome Craig as the incoming Chair of Hand Heart Pocket.
Welcoming Craig Reimers as Chairman
Craig brings extensive experience as a management professional, having held senior leadership positions in both the public sector and publicly listed companies. Having served as Deputy Chair alongside Alasdair since 2023, Craig has been instrumental in shaping our strategic direction and strengthening governance. He now steps into the role of Chairman with a clear focus on the opportunities ahead to deepen Hand Heart Pocket’s impact for young people in need.
Craig is also recognised for his long-standing commitment, including more than 19 years as a Freemason, his service as a former volunteer Hand Heart Pocket Champion, and his role as Secretary of the Toowoomba and District Masonic Council.
Craig said it was a real privilege to be appointed as the next Chairman of Hand Heart Pocket.
“Hand Heart Pocket is an organisation that I deeply respect. I hope to build on Alasdair’s significant leadership and legacy as we advance our purpose-led strategy and strengthen our work with Members, partners, and the young people we serve,” he said.
