Rochester and Elmore District Health Service has welcomed a new board director.
Melissa Silk joins the REDHS board with more than 25 years of experience in health strategy, cultural diversity and governance. Her roles have included manager of social work, Aboriginal health, cultural diversity and interpreting services.
Mrs Silk is also the co-founder of Adapted Consulting, a leadership and personal coaching business, as well as a board member of Women’s Health Loddon Mallee.
“I have a strong belief in the importance of accessible health care and supports, and I have long been a steadfast advocate for ensuring that regional townships have the resources that (they) need to thrive,” she said.
“I am looking forward to collaborating with dedicated health professionals and fellow board members to strengthen REDHS as a cornerstone of our community’s health and wellbeing.
“Growing up in a small shire outside of Bendigo, I appreciate and respect the creativity, resilience and support offered by a smaller community.
“Resilience is woven into the fabric of the Rochester and Elmore district and when challenge arises, I have admired how the services and community members alike have banded together to maintain its vibrant and caring spirit.
“I am committed to leveraging my governance experience to support the unique challenges and seize any opportunity for growth and improvement.”
Following an eight-year tenure, director Jodie Smith is departing the team. During this term, she was chair of the Aged Care Redevelopment and Flood Rebuild projects, and participated in the corporate governance, clinical governance and consumer and community advisory zommittees.
Mrs Silk has been appointed for a three-year term, joining chair Chris White, deputy-chair Brad Drust, David Rosaia, Jim Brooks, Emma Millard and Anne-Marie Kelly. Ms Millard and Mr White have also been re-appointed for three more years.