EDMH announces new and outgoing board directors

EDMH sadly announces the retirement of long serving board director Tony Kealy who has been a member of the board for 12 years and Jo Murdoch who has completed her 2-year term.

Board Chairman Philip Sabien thanks them both for their significant commitment to Hospital and the community.

“Jo joined the board in 2018, she has taken on the role of Chair for our Quality and Risk Committee and brings a strong consumer voice to the board.  Jo has been a very enthusiastic member of the board and I would like to thank her for her hard work, time and effort.” Said Mr Sabien

“Tony is leaving this board in a much stronger position than when he joined 12 years ago, throughout his time on the board Tony has been a part of and lead the board through many significant building and infrastructure changes.”

“I thank him for his guidance, support and commitment to not only myself but to all the board, executive and staff at EDMH. He is very wise and gives a sound opinion on matters.  He will be missed and should be proud of his achievements whilst on the board. “said Mr Sabien

Tony Kealy was hesitant to join the board at first when he was approached many years ago but has relished the challenge and realised the personal growth and satisfaction that being a part of the board has brought to himself.

“The professional development that the department provides is a great opportunity for Board members to learn, grow and upskill their knowledge of health services for the benefit of our own families and businesses.”  Said Tony.

“It has been an honour to serve our local community as a volunteer board member and to work with Board members and executive staff to improve our community’s health outcomes.

Tony has had a number of highlights of which he has played an active part in during his terms on the board, these include:

• The Aged Care Redevelopment Building program, $11M invested into Edenhope.
• The building of the staff accommodation and doctor’s residence
• The building of the Medical Clinic
• Capital upgrades of the Barkala flats
• The recruitment of five CEO’s – Kathy Hewitt, Emma Kealy, Anne Bates, Kevin Mills,

and in particular Andrew Saunders, who commenced with the organisation as a young cook 30 years ago and worked his way up.

“Most of our upgrades have been achieved without government funding, coming from bequests, fundraising and donations from others, including support from our Bendigo Bank. This is an amazing achievement.” Said Mr Kealy

“I was very proud to be the Board Chairperson when the Government grant for a new aged facility to was finally approved.”

“I would like to sincerely thank all the board members I have had the pleasure of working with and I wish the new Board the best of luck for future endeavours.”

The EDMH board is delighted to welcome two new board directors Julie West and Harry Ostendorf, both who live locally and bring with them a wealth of experience and skills to the board.

Julie West has been a member of the Edenhope community for over 40 years, she is married to a local farmer and is involved in numerous community groups and clubs.

Julie is the senior partner of local accountant practice West Curries, she is an experience certified practicing accountant which brings a new skill set to the board.

Harry Ostendorf, lives locally and is actively involved in many local community groups and organisations.

Harry has worked in many senior management roles prior to moving to Edenhope and brings a diverse range of skills to the board.

EDMH Board Chairman Philip Sabien is looking forward to working with the new directors

“We are grateful to have been able to secure two new directors from the local areas with such broad experience, which I am sure will provide a significant contribution to our board and the community.”