Wednesday 3 February
NT Department of Health and Families Chief Executive, Dr David Ashbridge, announced today that he will relinquish the position he has held for the past three years to take up an offer to become CEO of Barwon Health, Victoria's largest regional health service.
Barwon Health serves a population of more than 450,000 people in Geelong and South Western Victoria and provides a broad spectrum of health services that includes emergency and acute care, mental health, primary care, community services, aged care and subacute/ rehabilitation.
In a message to DHF staff Dr Ashbridge said he had greatly enjoyed the challenge of heading a large organisation providing quality health care and family services to Territorians. He acknowledged the professionalism and compassion of staff, and sincerely appreciated the support given to him and his senior management team
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my 22 years in the Territory, initially working as a doctor in remote and urban settings and subsequently in departmental management roles. Consolidating the division of Families and Children within the department created special responsibilities that have been well handled by our dedicated staff in this challenging area," Dr Ashbridge said.
"I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with many Aboriginal communities across the NT and to have been so warmly welcomed by local people.
"I am excited by the opportunity to take up new challenges within the public health sector, although my departure will be tinged with sadness. I will leave behind countless good friends and valued colleagues, both within the Department and the broader government sector as well as in the private sector."
"Health and Families has many things to be proud of, and the department is in excellent shape," Dr Ashbridge said.
"Our hospitals are highly regarded, high quality work is being done by remote health staff and the public health and health promotion teams, and staff in Families and Children are committed to helping people experiencing difficulties.
"The Department's achievements during my tenure include the establishment of a full medical school by Flinders University and Charles Darwin University that will see the NT "growing its own doctors" within the next few years.
"Other major developments are the new Radiation Oncology Unit on the Royal Darwin Hospital campus and the Palmerston GP Superclinic that is under construction.
"The NT is a great place to live and work, and my experiences here have enriched my life. I will certainly be a strong ambassador for the NT down south."
Dr Ashbridge will step down as DHF Chief Executive in mid March 2010 and take up his new position in early April. An acting Chief Executive will be appointed until a permanent replacement is recruited.
