Merrilee has a Bachelor of Music and Education from the NSW Conservatorium of Music (1984). She has undertaken extensive post-graduate studies in many arts and education related fields. As a freelance arts worker, Merrilee has worked in Australia and New Zealand, Germany and the UK. She is a highly skilled, muliti-artform based and versatile Territory artist.

Her training and experience in both arts and education has allowed her to work with people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. She has worked in the Northern Territory since 1990.

Merrilee’s work with Tracks as performer and creative personnel has included 4WD Sweat Dust and Romance, Shades of Pink, the Opportunity of Distance national tour and Fierce.

Merrilee’s work with the Grey Panthers includes Dear Auntie, Reluctant Retirees, Old Spice Cabaret and Healthy Wealthy and Wise. She coordinated the Grey Panthers between 2001 and 2002.