Barker appointed RFDS boss in WA

One of the state's largest charities, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Western Operations, will be led by former St John NT boss Judith Barker. 

Hailing from WA and trained as a paramedic, Ms Barker has been working interstate for several years, including leading St John NT for the past four.

Prior to this, she was the chief operating officer and director of service performance and improvement with the South Australian Ambulance Service.

Ms Barker said she was excited to join the RFDS and return to her hometown to lead an organisation that was so well known and loved.

RFDS Western Operations chair Sam Walsh said Ms Barker had a depth of experience, knowledge and skill that would benefit the strategic priorities and future direction of the service.

“Judith’s proven ability to make positive change and to lead service organisations with passion and integrity made her an excellent choice for the role,” Mr Walsh said.

“She has extensive experience in managing complex projects and programs and building productive stakeholder connections.”

Mr Walsh also acknowledged the work of outgoing chief executive Rebecca Tomkinson and said she was leaving the organisation in excellent shape.

“During Rebecca’s tenure, the service has achieved significant growth and new capability to meet the needs of regional healthcare for the next generation,” he said.

Ms Tomkinson led RFDS Western Operations, the second largest charity in the state, according to Business News Data & Insights, since the beginning of 2018. 

She started a new role as the boss of the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia this week.

The industry body also announced its acting chief executive Rob Carruthers, who had been managing the organisation since late May, was departing for a corporate affairs role at Liontown Resources.