about us

Deb James (Director of H2O & Accredited Driving Instructor) has over 20 years experience as a Youth Worker and Community Support Coordinator assist many at a disadvantage.   Her career positions have included Community Development Officer, Career and Family Support Manager, and earlier work as a Fitness Instructor; facilitating numerous programs, empowering wellness, career choices and employment, seeing incredible life changes and so much success for her clients.  Deb coordinated a popular Queensland Community Mentoring Learner Driver Program.  Deb's resume includes years of work with community hearted organisations such as PCYC Queensland (Police Citizens Youth Club), Scripture Union, The Salvation Army, and Education Queensland.   

Deb is passionate about inclusion and seeing all live empowered, purpose filled lives and   absolutely loves what she does.    We are so confident in our approach. 

Rod joined the Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training team in July 2026, bringing with him an exceptional background in education, policing, and mentoring.

Rod spent 17 years as a teacher before serving for 18 years with the Queensland Police Service, retiring as a Detective in 2012. Throughout his policing career, he worked across General Duties, the Drug Squad, Child Abuse Unit and Fraud Squad, where he became highly regarded for his expertise in investigation, interviewing, fraud prevention and education. He has delivered training to police, government agencies, private organisations and community groups throughout Australia and internationally.

At the heart of Rod's career has always been a passion for educating others. His engaging presentation style has seen him speak at international conferences and community events, as well as present educational programs aboard Princess Cruises.

In 2022, Rod became a volunteer mentor with the PCYC Braking the Cycle program, helping disadvantaged young people gain their driver's licence. Wanting to make an even greater difference, he became a qualified driving instructor and now combines his decades of teaching, coaching and policing experience to help learners become safe, confident drivers.

Rod has extensive experience supporting neurodiverse learners and understands that every student learns differently. His calm, patient approach helps build confidence while creating a positive learning environment where young people can develop their skills at their own pace.

Rod is passionate about empowering young people to achieve their goals and is proud to be part of the Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training team, helping create safer roads and stronger families.