Tenterfield will have a local voice in the operation of the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter service with this week’s announcement of Tenterfield Hospital manager Tony Roberts’ inclusion on the service’s Northern Regional Advisory Committee (RAC).
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“The appointed committee is an outstanding group of local community and business leaders,” the service’s CEO Richard Jones said .
“They will ensure strong local governance and contribute to the achievement of the strategic goals of our Service. They will provide advice to our Board of Directors and Management Team on matters of relevance to their local communities.”
The inaugural chairperson is Peter Duncan. The additional four members are Gary Fox (Ballina), Deborah Benhayon (Lismore) and Stuart George (Casino), along with Mr Roberts..
While seeking to ensure balanced geographic representation, the RAC was selected in a merit based process that considered the skills, experience and qualifications of all applicants.
“We are thrilled with the calibre of the appointed members,” Mr Jones said.
“The first meeting of the committee was December 18 and we plan to seek additional expressions of interest from business and community leaders from areas like the Tweed, Clarence Valley, Grafton or Coffs Harbour early in 2018.”
“The RAC will play a key role in our future. It will ensure our rescue helicopter continues its life-saving work free of charge and the decisions we make are in the best interests of local communities. We were very pleased with the number of applicants and the high caliber experience that each offered.
“One of the common facts that people want to know is that fundraising dollars stay local. The answer is yes; all money raised local stays local to support this local service. It is important to us that this local Advisory Committee can oversee our operations and assist on matters of governance. ”
Peter Duncan is the son of Bruce Duncan, former Chairman and one of the pioneers of the local Rescue Helicopter.
“I’m delighted to have this opportunity to be hands-on in such an important regional service,” he said.
“I am also proud to have the opportunity to serve as chair and the Advisory Committee and I are all passionate about the community benefits provided by the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter to this region. We will work hard to ensure the Service continues its lifesaving work with the support of NSW Ambulance, our sponsors and for the very generous community in our region.”
