Rowan Steer

General Manager

Rowan Steer is a seasoned professional, offering more than three decades of rich experience in the funeral industry. His career, which began at the tender age of 16, has seen him assist families in every sort of funeral you could imagine, making him an invaluable resource to our team.

Rowan’s extensive experience encompasses a variety of cultures and religions, and he is committed to honouring and respecting all beliefs. This commitment ensures every service is personalised, dignified, and meaningful, aligning with the traditions and values of the families he serves.

Known as a gentle giant, Rowan’s compassionate nature truly shines in his role. He cares profoundly for the families entrusted to his care, and cherishes the stories and histories that they share.

Away from his professional duties, Rowan pursues a love for outdoor activities. He finds relaxation in fishing and golf, activities that allow him to connect with nature and unwind.

Julian Birkinshaw

Locations Manager

As the Location Manager of MH Funerals, Julian Birkinshaw brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having commenced his journey in the funeral industry back in 1999. His career has spanned multiple companies and roles, allowing him to develop a comprehensive understanding of the high standards of funeral care.

Julian has dedicated his career to upholding these principles, using his leadership role to train his team to the same exacting standards. His commitment to service shines through in his interaction with families and individuals experiencing loss, providing them with an environment marked by empathy and professionalism.

Passionate about serving his community, Julian is a consistent advocate for the people of the wider Brisbane area, with a special interest in the multicultural communities that enrich the region.

Away from his professional life, Julian enjoys the excitement of road trips, the allure of travel, and the culinary delights of cooking, skills honed from his past life as a chef. A devoted dog lover, Julian cherishes the loyal companionship of his four-legged friends.

Not to forget, Julian’s passion for his Jaguar car speaks volumes about his appreciation for quality and performance. Much like his professional commitment, his care for his prized Jaguar mirrors his dedication to maintaining the highest standards in all he does.

Paul Chittick
Introducing Paul Chittick, a committed member of the team at MH Funerals with a rich and diverse background. Combining a dedication to public service and a heartfelt approach to his role as a funeral director, Paul brings empathy, professionalism, and warmth to his work.

At the heart of Paul’s life is his family. As a devoted father of four adult children, he understands the value of family and the bonds that hold us together. This experience gives him an authentic, compassionate approach to helping those navigating the challenges of loss.

Before joining us at MH Funerals, Paul served in public service for 26 years, a testament to his dedication to his community and helping others. Now, having been a funeral director for over eight years, he applies the same commitment to ensuring every family receives the highest level of care and attention.

When he’s not at work, Paul enjoys an array of hobbies that keep him grounded and balanced. He’s an avid fisherman, finding peace and perspective on the water. Additionally, he enjoys sports such as golf and rugby union, where he embraces both the challenges and camaraderie. His love for overseas travel opens up new experiences, broadening his perspectives and enhancing his understanding of diverse cultures.

In his professional role, Paul is passionate about the funeral service industry, always striving to provide the best service and support to those going through difficult times. He is also a respected Commissioner for Declarations, further evidence of his commitment to serving his community and upholding essential values.

Paul Chittick is more than a funeral director; he is a caring guide during life’s most challenging times, a mentor to our staff, and a key contributor to the compassionate service MH Funerals is proud to provide.

Alleasha Blanzan

Alleasha Blanzan is a valued member of the MH Funerals team, bringing dedication, compassion, and unwavering attention to detail to her role. Her ability to truly listen and carefully plan services that respect and honor the deceased makes her an indispensable asset to our clients in their time of need.

Boasting six years of experience in the funeral industry, Alleasha understands the importance of empathy and care in our line of work. Her dedication to providing comfort to those grieving, combined with her meticulous attention to detail, ensures every service she plans is a unique and fitting tribute.

Outside of work, Alleasha is a fitness enthusiast, enjoying the physical challenge and mental clarity that come with regular exercise. Her love for being outdoors often finds her on hiking trails, where she finds solace and rejuvenation in nature’s beauty.

In her downtime, you’ll likely find Alleasha in the kitchen, exploring her passion for cooking. She appreciates the artistry in preparing a meal, as well as the joy of sharing it with others.
An ardent cat lover, Alleasha shares her life with her beloved feline, Penny. The bond she shares with Penny reflects her compassionate spirit and her ability to forge deep connections – qualities that are at the heart of her professional role.

Alleasha Blanzan’s passion for her work and commitment to our clients make her a key component of the caring service we’re proud to offer at MH Funerals. Her empathetic nature and experienced hand ensure that our clients always feel heard, understood, and supported.

Jessica Erhlich

Funeral Transfer Assistant

Jennifer Stangret

Funeral Director

I believe every funeral or memorial should reflect the individuality of the person your loved one was in life. Hi, my name is Jenny, I have only been in the funeral industry for a few years, but I developed an empathy for grieving families early on in life after losing my father and aunt and many more loved ones along the way. This led me to pursue a position in the industry so I can help guide families through the often-unknown steps and details after someone they care for passes away.

I understand what it’s like to feel numb with grief, so I would be honoured to support you every step of the way when you need it most.

I’m deeply committed to delivering a dignified and personal service. I’ll take the time to understand what made your loved one so special and what their loss means to you. I want to know about their interests, personality traits and any quirky characteristics that made them unique. I’ll offer suggestions and give you my complete dedication by taking care of every detail when you entrust your loved one into my care.

Leanne Gaskell

Funeral Transfer Assistant

Shinae

Funeral Director

Kia Ora, Talofa, Malo my name is Shinae and I have been in the funeral industry 3+ years. My journey started in New Zealand as a Funeral Director’s Assistant where I quickly worked towards personally caring for families. I recently moved to Australia and when I’m not at work I’m usually out exploring my new backyard with my beautiful children. I am a devoted Mum of 5 and love to show my children what the world has to offer them.

Having lost my brother tragically in 2013, I deeply understand grief and how difficult it is saying goodbye to a loved one. The biggest heartbreak of my life guided me into a career change, and I am now honoured to be able to guide other families through the turbulent and difficult process of arranging a loved one’s funeral.

I have Māori heritage, and whakapapa to Te Aroha. My career and skill set, combined with my expertise in traditional Māori services, enable me to provide a variety of services. I deeply value culture and can cater to all religions and beliefs to ensure all loved ones are honoured in their passing. I am also able to provide suggestions and solutions to families to ensure they are aware of all options available to them throughout the process.

I believe it is an honour to take care of a loved one and I pride myself on providing a unique and meaningful service for each family I help. I take measures to always ensure my services are dignified and honourable for all and ensure that every small detail is taken care of when your loved one is entrusted into my care.

Paul Agresta

Funeral Director

Hi there, my name is Paul Agresta. I was born and grew up in regional NSW,
moved to Sydney and then Canberra before settling with my family for the last
couple of years in Armidale in the New England Region of Northern NSW. We
moved to Brisbane to be closer to our broader family and have only been here
a short time.

Once I moved to Queensland, after coming from years of being in a rewarding
career in nursing and people management, where I demonstrated a true
understanding of listening to my patients and my team, I showed compassion,
empathy and sympathy for those in need, I made the decision that I wanted to
continue helping people, and I entered the funeral industry and began working
for Premier Funerals.

As we all walk different paths through life and beyond, I will offer suggestions,
I will also ensure that your voice is heard and commit to giving you and your
loved one the upmost respect and professionalism during this difficult time.

I believe it is an honour and privilege to be entrusted to take care of your loved
one, to show your loved one the respect, dignity and individuality they
deserve. To work with families although at a time of grief to ensure that there
is a celebration of life and memories are cherished.

Thank you

“those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day,
unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear”