Formerly the board’s vice chairwoman, Ms Panter succeeds Matthew Wood, who has retired from the board after seven years’ service.

Ms Panter was elected vice chairwoman in 2017 and has served on the East Grampians Health Service board since 2014. She was previously audit and risk committee chairwoman.

“I am honoured to be elected chair of East Grampians Health Service – a multi-award winning organisation that strives to improve the health outcomes of our community every day,” Ms Panter said. “On behalf of the board of directors I wish to extend our thanks to Mr Wood for his tireless work as chair since 2015.”

Ararat Rural City-based Ms Panter brings to the role more than 20 years’ experience in marketing, communications, risk management and project management.

She has a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in journalism from the University of Queensland, Advanced Project Management Certificate from Stanford University (USA) and has completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course.

Joining Ms Panter on the executive are Heather Fleming, vice chairwoman, and Jay Petty, treasurer.

Mrs Fleming, of Willaura, is also chairwoman of the community consultative committee, a member of the Building for the Future Foundation and a member of the EGHS Willaura Healthcare Auxiliary.

Ms Petty succeeds Russell Barker, who has retired as treasurer and board member after five years of service.

A chartered accountant, she is also chairwoman of the audit and risk committee and works at the Northern Grampians Shire Council as manager financial services.

“East Grampians Health Service is entering a new and exciting phase, with the forthcoming appointment of a new chief executive,” Ms Panter said. “The board and I look forward to working with the executive of East Grampians Health Service and continuing the good work laid down by our previous chair and board members.”