Katie Rose Cottage Hospice has announced a new chairperson with board member Claire Middleton taking over the role after acting Chair Les Godwin stepped down.
Hospice chief executive officer John Gabrielson said Les was kind enough to take on that role last year, post the retirement of inaugural chair Carol Raye in December 2022.
“He had always made it clear that he wished to only temporarily fill the position until a permanent replacement could be found,“ he said.
“Claire is very excited to take on the role and looks forward to connecting with all of you in the near future. She has had a life-long commitment palliative care and hospice care.
“She also had exposure to eating disorders in her family and at that time could not find adequate support. As a result, she took it upon herself to establish the Butterfly Foundation, dedicated to providing the very best care and support for those affected by eating disorders.
“She saw an urgent need to take appropriate action and did so. Butterfly has gone from strength to strength and is now seen as one of the leading organisations in this field across the world.
“The organisation is very excited by Claire’s appointment, and her vision, as we continue to go from strength to strength as a leading not for profit in Australia.
“We would again like to recognise, and thank, Les Godwin for acting as chair for the past 12 months (as well as treasurer), and our other board members who have provided him with wonderful support in that time. Those board members are Jill Morley, Claire Middleton, Simon Gamble and Glen Elmes“.