The Ashburn Hall Charitable Trust, which owns Ashburn Clinic, has announced four new appointments to the board to replace retiring members.

The new trustees are Ray Anton, David Clark, Christine Garey and Shayne Walker.

Ray Anton recently retired as the CEO of Clutha Health First, which created the successful integration of general practice and a rural hospital serving South Otago. He is now on the board of Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network, having chaired one of its predecessor organisations – the NZ Rural Hospital network, as well as filling other significant governance leadership roles.

David Clark is the current MP for Dunedin and has held a number of cabinet ministerial roles, including Health. Prior to entering parliament in 2011, his varied background included being a Presbyterian Minister and a Treasury analyst and Warden of Selwyn College.

Christine Garey is a current Dunedin City Councillor and was until recently Deputy Mayor. She has a long and significant history of local community involvement and governance experience.

Shayne Walker is Associate Professor and Head of the Social and Community Work Programme at the University of Otago. He is of Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Kāi Tahu, and Ngāti Kahungunu whakapapa. Shayne was raised in Bluff but has spent most of his professional life in Dunedin. He has served in various advisory and governance roles for both the government and community sectors. He is an Officer of the NZ Order of Merit.

Ashburn Board Chair Clive Matthewson says the quality of the people interested in joining Ashburn was striking. “The Clinic’s historical reputation and current worth are clearly recognised. We could have added even more people who are both high achieving and community contributors. Ashburn is well placed right now, and these new joiners make us feel very good about where we will go.”

Medical Director Dr Megan Bryan said “Ashburn’s mission is to help people throughout New Zealand who have mental health and addiction problems – to improve their wellbeing and quality of life. Staff members have always felt the Board’s support in this, and we all look forward to the new appointees joining us at this exciting time”.