A new general manager has taken the helm at Grafton Base Hospital and Maclean District Hospital, as Northern NSW Local Health District oversees a major redevelopment of services in the Clarence Valley.
Anthony Williams stepped into the role of General Manager of the Clarence Health Service in early February, following a handover from long-serving predecessor Dan Madden.
Mr Williams brings extensive experience in senior leadership roles across Queensland Health, including work in tertiary hospitals in Townsville and Brisbane. He began his career as an intensive care nurse and has spent the past decade in executive-level clinical operations roles.
His appointment comes at a significant time for the region, with Grafton Base Hospital undergoing a $263.8 million redevelopment. The project will deliver a new multi-storey Acute Services Building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay Unit, medical imaging services with MRI, and additional inpatient facilities.
Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey welcomed the appointment.
“We’re delighted to extend a very warm welcome to Anthony at the Clarence Health Service,” Ms Maisey said.
“Anthony brings with him extensive leadership and strategic experience at some of the busiest hospitals in Queensland, which will stand him in good stead at this critical time, as we prepare for the expansion of Grafton Base Hospital, a project that will deliver significant benefits for the local community.”
Ms Maisey also paid tribute to outgoing general manager Dan Madden, who retired after 23 years with the district, including 15 years leading the Clarence Health Service.
“I would like to extend our sincere thanks to Dan Madden after 23 years of service to the Northern NSW Local Health District. Dan’s dedication, passion and unwavering commitment to the local community leaves the service in a very good position.”
Mr Williams said he was looking forward to continuing the work already underway.
“It is an exciting time to be joining Northern NSW Local Health District, and everyone has been very welcoming,” he said.
“I look forward to continuing the amazing work that has come before me and to being part of the delivery of a great local health service, something the community can be very proud of.”
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