New Board Directors appointed at EGHS

East Grampians Health Service has welcomed three new Board Directors.

The Victorian Minister for Health Maryanne Thomas has appointed Marian College teacher Megan Shea, Human Resources Consultant Lisa Davidson and ABC Radio program maker Debbie Rybicki to the EGHS Board.

Both Ms Shea and Ms Davidson are from the local area, Ararat and Great Western respectively, while Ms Rybicki hails from Buninyong.

With an interest in health and having taught VCE Health and Human Development and junior health for many years, Ms Shea said she applied to join the board as she wanted to expand her knowledge about the operational side of the health system.

“I am looking forward to learning and growing – I am surrounded by some very professional and experienced people who I admire, and I am excited to further develop my knowledge of the health system and governance,” she said.

Ms Davidson said the Board had previously indicated in interest in attracting applicants with Human Resources skills and when the opportunity came up again, she felt in a better position to be able to commit the time.

“The service provided by the organisation is crucial, and as a user of the services myself, I was keen to contribute my skills and expertise to its continued success,” she said.

“I also had some exposure to the hospital through being a volunteer member of the Community Consultative Committee and was impressed with the approach of the Board and the CEO from what I had experienced through that forum.

“As a Board Director, I am excited about the potential to contribute to the service. I look forward to being actively involved in strategic decision-making processes and contributing what I can based on my skills and background.”

As a healthcare professional and communications specialist, Ms Rybicki said by joining the Board she hoped to leverage off the unique value she could contribute to the strategic leadership of public health care delivery.

“I am looking forward to working with a skills focused Board to improve the health and wellbeing of the community,” she said.

All three new Directors are enjoying their time working with the Board.

“Getting to know the other Directors has been great, there is a shared passion to serve the local community,” Ms Rybicki said.

Ms Davidson agreed, saying that she has really enjoyed the opportunity to engage with fellow board members, executives and employees.

“Collaborating with individuals who are equally passionate about the service’s success has been a rewarding experience and I am thrilled to be part of a dynamic team,” she said.

Seeing familiar faces on a tour of EGHS has been a highlight in the early days of being a Board Director for Ms Shea.

“It was really lovely to see past students who I have taught or coached (in netball), now working and happy in their chosen profession,” she said.

East Grampians Health Service Board has re-elected Ken Weldin as Chairperson, continuing in the position he has held for the past year.

If you would like an update on the developments at East Grampians Health Service, you are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday November 28 at the Willaura Memorial Hall, commencing at 6pm. Please RSVP to Jo Summers on 5352 9303 or jo.summers@eghs.net.au