Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of Grampians Health. Featuring local representation from across the Grampians area, the Board brings genuine, informed leadership grounded in the lived experience and diverse needs of our communities.
Focused on governance, accountability, and long-term planning, our Board ensures that Grampians Health remains aligned with regional priorities and responsive to emerging challenges. Their oversight supports transparent decision-making, community engagement, and the delivery of equitable, quality care across the region.
Hon. Rob Knowles AO - Chair
A farmer from Clarendon, Rob has a wealth of experience as a company director, and previously served in Victorian Parliament from 1976-1999, including as Minister for Housing and Aged Care, Minister of Health and Aged Care, and Deputy Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council.
Anthony Schache - Board Member
Anthony is an innovative and outcome driven leader, focused on achieving exceptional results in a range of highly competitive environments that demand continuous improvement. He has a background in financial reporting and budgeting for both small and large accounts and contract and risk management.
Avril Hogan - Board Member
Avril brings a wealth of experience and expertise, especially in the field of marketing research and governance, to the board. She has more than 15 years’ experience in market research consulting, business strategy, international marketing and business ownership. Her expertise covers industries including Agriculture, Education and Government research departments.
Cora Trevarthen - Board Member
Cora chairs the Australian Institute of Company Director’s Committee in Ballarat and serves on two private company boards in the commercial and residential property sectors. Cora has previously served on boards of business, advocacy, sporting and cultural organisations in Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania.
David Anderson - Board Member
David recently retired from Peninsula Health, where he worked as Chief Financial Officer from 2002 to 2018. He retains an active interest in the health sector with short-term roles and is currently a Director of the Royal Eye and Ear Hospital.
Heather Pickard - Board Member
Heather is Director of the National Nurse and Midwife Health Service, and a Registered Nurse with postgraduate qualifications in Addiction Studies and Organisational Management; as well as completing the Australian Institute of Company Directors course.
Nicholas Jones - Board Member
Associate Professor Nicholas (Nick) Jones is a Cardiologist and the current Director of General Medicine at Austin Health. Nick is passionate about regional and rural health with a particular focus on correcting health inequality that exists within the Australian healthcare system. Having studied in rural South Australia, and worked in Bendigo and Echuca, Nick has experience practicing in the rural and regional environment.
Rhian Jones - Board Member
Rhian has served as a Board Director with Stawell Regional Health since 2012 and was elected Chair in 2016. During this time Rhian also Chaired the Grampians Region Board Chair Network.
Dr Jessica Dean - Board Member
Dr Jessica Dean is a dual-qualified Intensive Care Specialist and Lawyer with experience in clinical governance, health law, and ethics. She is completing a PhD focused on ethical decision-making in intensive care.