OUR TEAM
Elyse Cuzzilla
Principal Solicitor / Director
View Profile
After a week of work experience in Year 10, Elyse joined Chinka (HEP) Steel in 2008 and worked on a part-time basis whilst completing her VCE and Law studies. Elyse has over 14 years’ experience in matters relating to Family Law Property & Children, Wills and Estates, Estate Disputes and General Advice.
Elyse has completed a Master of Laws majoring in Family Law and Wills and Estates. Elyse primarily focuses on matters relating to Family Law, Family Violence and complex estates.
Elyse’s focus is her client’s well-being and figuring out a solution. Elyse takes a gentle and practicable approach, understanding that it is an emotional and complex time for clients.
Elyse is a fanatical St Kilda supporter and loves spending time attending football and playing with her fur-babies.
Elizabeth Romeril
Solicitor / Director
View Profile
Elizabeth has worked in the legal field for over 14 years and after completing her studies has recently been admitted to the Supreme Court.
Working across multiple areas, Elizabeth has expertise in Commercial, Conveyancing, Complex conveyancing, Subdivision, Restrictive covenants, Business purchase and sales, Retail leases and Wills and Estates.
Elizabeth commenced with Chinka (HEP) Steel in late 2019 and quickly established herself with our clients and community with her vast knowledge and experience.
Elizabeth loves to travel and tries to get away with her husband and family whenever she can.
Melanie Lethbridge
Solicitor
View Profile
Melanie recently completed her Master of Laws (Applied Law) majoring in Wills and Estates. She previously graduated with a Bachelor of Communications and then went on to study a Bachelor of Laws part-time. During her part-time studies she worked at the Australian Law Reform Commission and the Crown Solicitor’s Office NSW.
She was admitted to practice in 2013 and worked for Chinka (HEP) Steel until she left to have her third son in 2015. Melanie returned to the office in 2020 after raising her children and enjoys working in the area of Wills and Estates.
In her free time, you can find Melanie with her head in a book or watching her sons play sports.
Suze Kersey
Office Manager / Director
View Profile
Suze is a quality focused individual with 25 years’ experience in operations and administration management.
Suze joined the Chinka (HEP) Steel team in 2019 and has utilised her experience in Operations, Marketing, Human Resources and Finance to bring new focus and processes to the firm. Along with growing our business, Suze’s focus is on creating a great client experience.
Suze is a proud Mum, she enjoys hosting family events, watching football (Go Bombers & Storm), travelling and being active.
Vicki Smith
Conveyancer
View Profile
Vicki joined the Chinka Steel team in late 2020 and quickly established herself in our conveyancing team.
Utilizing her 20 years’ experience in real estate and her knowledge of the local area, Vicki is excited to be managing our property settlements.
When Vicki is not hard at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the movies and live theatre.
Vicki looks forward to meeting you all soon and guiding you through the conveyancing process.
Anita Candia
Legal Assistant
View Profile
Anita joined the Chinka (HEP) Steel in late 2021 in the role of Legal Assistant and has quickly established her knowledge within the legal field.
After completing a Certificate IV in Legal Services, Anita has since continued her education, commencing a Bachelor of Laws in 2023. Anita is excited to be starting her legal career journey and looks forward to finishing her studies.
In Anita’s spare time, you’ll find her enjoying a game of tennis, challenging her friends and family to a board game or unwinding with a cup of tea and a good book.
Sakura Butler
Legal Assistant
View Profile
Sakura is currently completing her Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) and has been a Woodend local her whole life.
Sakura is really enjoying her studies and especially finds having the theoretical and practical sides of law blending together the most exciting part. Sakura is excited to continue on her legal journey and to assist you all.
In Sakura’s free time she loves travelling, reading, spending time with friends and family whilst also being on spider patrol for the Chinka (HEP) Steel office
Sarah
Solicitor
View Profile
Sarah joined Chinka (HEP) Steel in 2026 as part of our family law team.
She was admitted to practice in 2024 and has had experience with Family Law, Wills and Estates and Conveyancing. Sarah is especially passionate in children’s matters and endeavours to bring a personalised, caring experience to each of her clients.
Sarah loves to travel and learn new recipes while abroad to try and recreate at home.
Abigail
Legal Receptionist
View Profile
Abigail joined the Chinka (HEP) Steel team in late 2025 in the role of Legal Receptionist and has quickly developed a strong passion for delivering an excellent client experience.
With a previous background in management, Abigail has continued to expand her knowledge and professional skills within our administration team. She is excited to continue growing in the position and supporting our clients with her positive and calm attitude.
Outside of work, Abigail enjoys camping, playing netball with her friends and spending quality time with family.
