Our Staff Team
DJ Konz
Lead Pastor
DJ commenced in the role of Lead Pastor at New Vine in early 2022. DJ served for almost a decade as an executive in the Christian non-profit sector, and since in theological education, most recently as Head of School, School of Ministry and Theology at one of Australia’s largest theological colleges. He holds a PhD in theology, is passionate about mission and justice, and has a strong vision for connecting with and serving the local community as part of the church’s witness to Jesus.
Sheriden Pethybridge
Associate Pastor – Families & Children
Sheriden joined New Vine towards the end of 2023 in the role of Children and Families pastor after serving in a volunteer capacity as Creche Team Leader for a few years. Sheriden has worked in a wide range of industries, including administration and independent schools. She brings this experience with her to serve at New Vine and combines it with a genuine love for young people and a passion for biblical teaching. Sheriden holds a degree in theology and loves engaging in conversations of faith and scripture with both kids and adults.
Zak Feacher
Associate Pastor – Teaching and Young Adults
Zak joined New Vine in January 2024 as the Teaching & Young Adults Pastor after serving in Youth Ministry for 8 years at his previous church. Zak has a Bachelor of Theology with Honours and is passionate about helping people of all ages to better understand the Bible. Zak oversees the Sunday morning sermon series, Sunday morning youth programs, and the New Vine Young Adults. Zak also loves some friendly competition playing board games and card games.
Isaac Cocking
Youth Ministry Director
Isaac Cocking leads our high school ministry and discipleship programs. A qualified sparkie, who also works as a carpenter, Isaac makes an amazing coffee, and shares with DJ a love for AFL (in rugby league heartland!)
Specifically, Isaac runs our Friday night DIGG Youth program, 7pm at New Vine Church. All high school students welcome!
Jill Beacroft
Associate Pastor – Administration & Discipleship
Jill worked in the banking sector for nearly two decades before bringing her skills in finance and administration to New Vine. Jill is not only the engine room for helping New Vine run smoothly, she plays an integral role in event planning, discipleship, and ministry groups in the church. Jill loves to welcome visitors and newcomers to New Vine, and help New Viners discover who they are in Christ.
Georgie Wright
Production & Services Director
Trained in production and with a head for all things tech, Georgie is our Production & Services Director. She ensures our services run smoothly, and continues to develop the quality of our production. Wife to Nick and mum to Douglas, Georgie is passionate about creating services that make space for people in our community to meet with Jesus.
Andrew Cole
Founding & Associate Pastor
As co-founder of New Vine, AJ has more than 25 years of church-planting, leadership, and ministry experience at New Vine Church and elsewhere. He is passionate about seeing people become followers of Jesus, and helping those who are, to share their faith story with others. AJ currently oversees many of the organisational and business aspects of New Vine, and also serves the NSW/ACT Baptist Association Hunter District, part-time.
Dan Bell
Media Production
Dan brings to his role a wealth of skills in videography, sound and production, and has been consistently committed to serving in New Vine’s production team for the last few years. Dan is an integral part of creating online services and other video content, and is currently studying Electrical Engineering & Maths at the University of Newcastle.
Cass Manahan
Finance Administrator
Cass heads up New Vine’s day-to-day finance management. A crucial part of keeping the New Vine ship sailing smoothly, Cass brings with her a wealth of skill in all things finance — as well as running her hairdressing salon!
Joel Noonan
Director of Community Care
Joel joined the team at New Vine in February 2024. Joel has spent the last 20 years or so serving churches in Sydney and on the south coast. He loves helping people to grow in their understanding and experience of God’s grace and presence in their lives. Joel also works part time for the Church Multiplication team at the Baptist Churches of NSW and ACT. In his spare time, he loves to make some noise on his guitar or drums.