Operation Life is a recognised charitable association (AN 5-5529) in Papua New Guinea. The organisation operates in accordance with its constitution and is responsible to its members. It is also registered as a charity in Australia (ABN 56 298 911 579) under the Australian Charities Commission and is recognised as a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Outposts Centres International.

Operation Life’s mandate is taken from Jesus’ example of faith in action for His true followers as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew.

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,
I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,
I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me,
I was sick and you looked after me,
I was in prison and you came to visit me.
(Matthew 25:35-36)

James Rennie has had vast experience in marketing and management. He owned and operated a large New Zealand marketing agency for over 25 years, was the marketing and sales director of Sanitarium New Zealand, and for 18 years, was the CEO of Child Impact International in the USA.

Jim is the founder and CEO of Active Edge Construction, based in Lake Macquarie, NSW. Jim has been involved in Operation Life for over 15 years and brings senior business experience and strong advice for building projects. Jim has a life long passion for service and helping young people and the underprivileged.

Greg brings extensive experience working with not-for-profit organisations, specialising in financial management, compliance, auditing and accountability. Guided by a strong sense of goodwill, he is committed to supporting efforts that create meaningful, positive change for the marginalised.

John brings extensive experience working with not-for-profit organisations, serving as a company director with expertise in management, compliance, auditing and accountability. Guided by a strong sense of integrity, he is committed to supporting initiatives that foster positive, healthy corporate change.

Wayne provides strategic leadership for Adventist Mission across the South Pacific, creating pathways and initiatives that mobilise individuals for local and international service. With over 30 years in corporate leadership, ministry, outreach, and media, in cross-cultural contexts, he successfully equips leaders, mobilises volunteers and fostered organisational development.

As acting first assistant secretary of the Papua New Guinea national government’s department of finance Eddie brings a wealth of experience from the field. Not only is his expertise in finance a valuable asset, but his hands on approach to serving the people of his country and leadership in church settings enables him to provide crucial insights into the needs in Papua New Guinea.

Keven brings more than a decade of financial experience across not-for-profit, disability, and chartered accounting sectors. His strong family ties to mission work in Papua New Guinea, along with leadership roles he holds in church settings inspire his commitment to integrity, service, and meeting the needs of communities he deeply values and grew up in.

Karo is the Bursar at Pacific Adventist University and brings extensive business experience in the Papua New Guinea landscape. Her passion for Operation Life over a long period of time provides Operation Life with in-the-field experience and wisdom. Karo’s passion aligns with Operation Life’s mission.

David Woolley and Dennis Perry, His Excellency Grand Chief, Sir Michael Ogio Governor General of Papua New Guinea

OFFL started by the pioneering, compassionate service of Dennis Perry and David Woolley in late 1990s, initially focusing on providing food and clothing to people in Papua New Guinea living on the Baruni rubbish tip, Port Moresby. Under their leadership, and vision the organisation grew in scope and impact, increasing its influence through education for children in underprivileged communities, as well as visiting the sick in hospitals, feeding the prisoners, caring for disabled and providing shelter for the abused and neglected.

Tribute to Dennis Perry and David Woolley

In recognition of your unwavering compassion and dedication to the underprivileged people of Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands. Your extraordinary commitment to the commission of Matthew 25 in founding and operating Operation Food for Life has created an enduring legacy. Through God’s calling and the loving support of your wives Marjorie and Elaine, your vision, leadership and commitment has provided safe havens, shelter, provisions, care, education and hope to countless individuals in need. You have fed thousands of people and introduced many to Jesus. Your selfless efforts have not only transformed lives but have also inspired a community to support Operation Life in its mission.

This recognition celebrates your passion, generosity, faith, and the profound impact you have made on the lives of so many—an impact that will only be fully comprehended in eternity.

With sincere gratitude and admiration, we thank you for your exemplary and ongoing service, as well as your enduring compassion.

Operation Life Members