A nine-person Board, bringing experience across clinical care, health service delivery, research, governance and leadership, has been appointed to guide the future of health care in North West Queensland, led by Chair Tanya Arnold.
An existing Board member who lives and works in the North West, Ms Arnold manages a pastoral property outside Normanton. She brings more than 30 years’ experience across rural and remote Queensland and the Northern Territory, and a strong understanding of the challenges facing remote communities.
“I am proud to continue serving the communities of the North West and to lead a Board focused on delivering high-quality, accessible care close to home,” Ms Arnold said.
Returning members Anne Pleash, appointed Deputy Board Chair, and Thomas (Bill) Armagnacq will provide continuity in leadership and governance, alongside continuing members Loretta Seamer, Tonya Murray and Fiona Hill.
They are joined by new members Mrs Janelle Stuart-Russell, Professor Johannes (John) Prins and Dr Robin Williams, bringing expertise across clinical care, research, education and rural health.
Mrs Stuart-Russell, a Clinical Facilitator at Mount Isa Hospital, brings more than 40 years of nursing experience and valuable frontline insight into local service delivery.
Professor Prins is a respected endocrinologist and senior health leader with experience across clinical practice, medical research and higher education, including roles as CEO of Health Translation Queensland and Chair of the Australian Health Research Alliance.
Dr Williams is a General Practitioner committed to rural medicine and community-based care, with experience delivering integrated health services and supporting the training of doctors in regional communities.
North West Hospital and Health Service acknowledges the significant contribution of outgoing Board Chair Cheryl Vardon AO and Deputy Board Chair Professor Eleanor Milligan, whose leadership strengthened governance and supported organisational performance.
The new Board will commence on 1 April 2026.
Under the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011, the Board is responsible for the performance of the Hospital and Health Service and the delivery of public health services to the North West community.