26/09/2022
Progress at MDAS
New Acting Chief Executive named
The Board of Mallee District Aboriginal Services (MDAS) has announced that Chief Executive, Ms. Jacqualyn Turfrey, is no longer employed with the Organisation. In making the announcement, Board Chair, Ms. Vicki Clark, said the decision allows both Ms. Turfrey and MDAS an opportunity to move forward.
Ms. Turfrey had been on personal leave since May and in her absence, MDAS appointed Mr. Dallas Widdicombe as Acting Chief Executive.
“Dallas brought great experience and ideas to MDAS and helped to guide the transformation of the Organisation. Under his leadership, we made significant progress, including achieving the reaccreditation of our Mildura Health Service, an organisational restructure, further refinement of our governance processes and recruitment to key roles,” Ms. Clark said.
Bendigo based Mr. Widdicome, who was seconded to MDAS from Bendigo District Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC), recently welcomed his fourth child and has returned to Bendigo to be with his family.
Mr. Widdicome said he thoroughly enjoyed his time at MDAS and has every faith in its future.
“I am sad to be leaving Mildura and MDAS. During my time with the Organisation, I was inspired by the passion and dedication of its staff. I am entirely confident that the path they are now on will lead to great things for the community and I will continue to be an adviser, champion, and friend to the Organisation.”
Ms. Clark says that the connection that MDAS has forged with Mr. Widdicombe will strengthen the collaborative relationship between BDAC and MDAS and increase the scope of opportunities for joint initiatives in the future.
While national recruitment for a permanent Chief Executive commences, the Board has formally appointed Ms. Darlene Thomas to the role of Acting Chief Executive.
Ms. Thomas has worked with MDAS for several years, most recently as Director of People and Culture and has experience across all aspects of the business and Ms. Clark believes this leaves her well-placed to lead MDAS.
“Darlene has a deep understanding of MDAS, and she is passionate about supporting our community to be strong and healthy and to ensuring they have access to culturally safe services.
“Darlene has the Board’s full support as she commences in her new position.”