Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH) has farewelled director Bruce Hurley, who is stepping down from the board after more than a decade of service to the organisation.
Bruce was chief executive officer of GLCH from 2004 to 2011, leading through a period of significant growth. He joined the organisation’s board in 2021.
Reflecting on his time at GLCH, Bruce said he had treasured his association and it was ‘best job I’ve had’.
He said his proudest moment was working with community to establish the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association in 2006.
“Aunty Phyllis Andy came to my office. She was a well-respected Elder … and said bluntly, ‘Bruce, we have to do something for my people. Many don’t feel comfortable coming to the clinic, so we really do need to do something’,” he said.
“That was a pivotal moment.”
Bruce’s retirement from the board comes as GLCH marks 50 years of operation, celebrating its beginnings as the Lakes Entrance Community Health Centre and the legacy of those who shaped its services.
In the organisation’s Annual Report, GLCH chief executive officer, Anne-Maree Kaser, said those foundations will ensure the organisation remains strong for the next 50 years.
“The centre’s early nurses herded stay livestock in Nowa Nowa, our teams responded to snake bite emergencies and scabies outbreaks and we became the first community health centre in Australia to receive Commonwealth funding for Aboriginal and aged care services,” she said.
“The willingness to meet people where they are, with whatever they need, continues to define us.”
At this year’s annual general meeting, GLCH welcomed Lakes Entrance resident John Kavadis to the board.
John began his career in chartered accountancy and for the past 15 years has managed a large family business. He brings extensive governance experience along with expertise in IT, cybersecurity, strategy,
financial management and risk oversight.
The organisation’s 2024-25 Annual Report is available at GLCH’s website.
