Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to the Board of Directors while bidding a fond farewell to Board Chair Kelly Mason, who is retiring after nine years of dedicated service.
According to MDHS Chief Executive Officer Nickola Allan, Ms Mason has been instrumental in guiding the organisation through numerous milestones and solidifying its reputation as a leader in rural healthcare services.
“It has been a true honour to work alongside Kelly who has given us around a decade of dedicated service on the board,” said Mrs Allan.
Kelly Mason joined the board in 2015, and served as Vice Chair from 2018 to 2021, then Board Chair since 2021.
Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have been pivotal in developing a strong strategic plan and advancing the organisation’s vision of changing the healthcare story with the community.
Ms Mason is also the CEO at Bounce Global based in Maryborough, and holds an MBA in Business Administration and Management and a Bachelor of Commerce.
Her expertise in strategic thinking, people management, stakeholder engagement and community knowledge has been invaluable.
“Kelly has worked diligently to improve health, social and financial outcomes for the community in our region, as well as our team of staff,” said Mrs Allan.
Among her achievements, Kelly has been one of the masterminds behind the MDHS master plan to set the health service up for a sustainable future.
Kelly has continuously advocated for funds and has overseen the sub-committee for major projects such as the $115 million Maryborough Hospital redevelopment, $4 million student accommodation project, the $4.3 million logistics hub expansion project and dining room improvements in residential aged care communities.
Under her leadership, Kelly passionately supported the case for change, and the co-design and rollout of the new maternity service model.
“We are immensely grateful for Kelly’s contributions and wish her all the best in her next endeavour. Although she may be retiring from our board after reaching a maximum term, we know she will continue to make an impact in our local community and beyond.”
The Board and Executive Team are pleased to welcome Sara Pantaleo and Kahlia Borserio as new board members.
“We are very excited about the fresh perspectives and expertise that Sara and Kahlia bring,” said Mrs Allan.
Sara is an accomplished business leader known for transforming La Porchetta into Australia’s largest franchised a-la-carte restaurant group. With expertise in vision, innovation and purpose, she co-founded the Moira Kelly Creating Hope Foundation and Affari SP, promoting sustainability and social responsibility. Sara also is a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and community development.
Kahlia is a registered podiatrist and Clinical Risk Coordinator at Dhelkaya Health with over a decade of clinical experience. With a Masters in Public Health, her expertise lies in patient-centered care and clinical governance. Kahlia is recognised for her contributions to rural health, and is dedicated to improving healthcare access, safety, and outcomes in rural communities.
“Their diverse skills and insights will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our services at a time of significant transformation at Maryborough District Health Service,” said Nickola.
Dr Judy Lowthian has now stepped into the role of Board Chair, Ron Eason as Vice Chair and Rob Camm will continue as Treasurer.
For more information visit mdhs.vic.gov.au.