Our Team
We’re proud to have a diverse, experienced, and compassionate team dedicated to delivering personalised support that makes a real difference in people’s lives, every day, across Alice Springs and beyond.


Erik is a registered nurse with over 20 years of experience across Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. After settling in Alice Springs, he founded Desert Star to provide flexible, compassionate care for NDIS participants, especially in remote communities. His clinical background, lived experience, and strong community ties shape Desert Star’s personal and culturally respectful approach to support.
Erik van Oost
Founder & Director of Care
Narelle
Clinical Advisor
Narelle is an Australian-trained ICU nurse with more than two decades of experience in hospitals across Sydney, Geraldton, Darwin, and Alice Springs. Her deep clinical insight and calm, compassionate manner make her an invaluable guide for both team members and clients. Narelle works alongside Erik to ensure Desert Star delivers safe, flexible, and high-quality care to every participant.
Ellen
Support Worker
Ellen is a compassionate and committed support worker with over a year of hands-on experience delivering domestic assistance, social support, respite care, and personal care services. Guided by the belief that everyone deserves to live fully and feel connected to the world around them, Ellen approaches her work with empathy, patience, and professionalism. She takes pride in creating a respectful, supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered—recognising that even small changes can lead to meaningful progress in people’s lives.
Georges
Support Worker
Georges Bureau is a compassionate support worker and trained Art historian from France with over 10 years’ experience in Central Australia. Having worked closely with remote Aboriginal communities, Georges brings a deep respect for cultural diversity and community-led care. Their holistic approach integrates art, gardening, and animal therapy to enhance wellbeing and connection. Passionate about inclusive, person-centred support, Georges empowers NDIS participants with complex needs to live fulfilling lives that honour identify, independence, and individual strengths.
Alejandra
Support Worker | Community Advocate
Alejandra Sanchez is a compassionate support worker with a background in business and finance. Originally from Peru, she transitioned into care work after moving to Australia and discovering her passion for helping others. Alejandra is proud to support diverse communities, including the Deaf community through her Auslan skills. Currently studying Certificate III in Individual Support, she is committed to continuous learning. Fluent in Spanish, Alejandra brings empathy, professionalism, and cultural awareness to every client interaction.
Jatinderpal
Disability & Aged Care Support Worker
Jatinderpal Hanjra is a dedicated support worker with a strong foundation in business, logistics, and community care. Originally from Punjab, India, Jatinderpal moved to Australia in 2009 and brings over a decade of diverse experience across operations and support services. Not based in Alice Springs, he holds qualifications in disability and age care, including current First Aid and NDIS Worker Screening. Guided by Sikh values of compassion and equality, Jatinderpal is committed to delivering person-centred care that uplifted and empowers individuals.
Eamon
Support Worker
Eamonn is a caring and professional support worker who has been helping people in the community for more than four years. He moved to Alice Springs after finishing his International Relations studies in Adelaide to look for work that was more meaningful and focused on people. Desert Star Support Services became his home. Eamonn thinks that working in support is more than just a job. He is compassionate, professional, and very eager to help people become stronger. His method is based on giving clients more confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of connection. He knows that every little thing he does to improve his life can make it better. Eamonn loves person-centered care. He makes sure that his clients know they are valued, respected, and motivated to live happy lives.