Global Utilities

La Trobe University
John Richards Initiative

JRI Reference Group

The JRI Reference group was established soon after the launch in 2007, when key local stakeholders were identified. The group currently meets twice a year and is chaired by Professor Warburton. Members of the group are also invited to JRI events and seminars, and are a very useful conduit into local and regional community issues.

The objective of the Reference Group is to facilitate links between the Richards Initiative and key stakeholders to provide advice to the Initiative. Functions include:

  • Contributing to the development of the research agenda
  • Informing the initiative about workforce development issues, including those relating to research, education and training
  • Disseminating information about the research undertaken by the Initiative and providing a conduit in the wider community.
Current Membership
Name Position
Mr John Richards, OAM Founder (Chair, Reference Group)
Professor Jeni Warburton John Richards Chair of Rural Aged Care Research
Professor Hal Swerissen Dean, Faculty of Health Science and Pro Vice-Chancellor Regional Campuses
Professor Rhonda Nay Director, AIPCA and Institute for Social Participation
Dr Guin Threlkeld Associate Director, La Trobe Rural Health School, Albury-Wodonga Campus
Professor Evan Willis Associate Dean (Regions) Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University
Mr Chris Puckey Manager, Policy & Analysis, Aged Care Branch, Department of Health
Mr Tony Dunn Director, Health and Aged Care, Hume Region, Department of Health
Ms Wendy Ross Chief Executive Office, Moira Healthcare Alliance
Mr Sandra Davidson Chief Executive Officer Upper Hume Community Health Service
Ms Jeanette Ryan Executive Manager Care Services, Shepparton Villages
Mr Terry Welch CEO, Yarrawonga Health Service
Mr Trevor Marshall Primary Care Manager, Alpine Health
Ms Ruth Harris Program Manager, Support Options, Upper Murray Family Care
Ms Joan Simms Community member, Beechworth