Horan has the health pedigree
HOSPITAL boards are set to return to Queensland and the man Lawrence Springborg dubbed "best health minister ever" will be seated at the head of the table.
Former member for Toowoomba South Mike Horan has been appointed as the chairman of the Darling Downs hospital and health board.
Mr Horan spent 21 years as the member for Toowoomba, during which time he was both minister and shadow minister for health, leader of the opposition, as well as other shadow ministry roles.
Before entering into the world of politics, Mr Horan spent 20 years as the general manager of the Toowoomba showgrounds.
The remainder of the board, including the CEO, is set to be appointed next month and will oversee a large area, including areas out to Goondiwindi, Taroom and Murgon and back to Warwick.
Mr Horan said the board would set the direction and policy of operation for all of the health facilities in the area, with the day-to-day running to be left to the CEO and staff.
Mr Horan said he was hoping the seven to nine board members will bring a diverse range of qualities and expertise.
"Hopefully we will have a mix of skills, ranging from management and board skills, to medical or health skills and people who have a real understanding of the needs of the people of this very big area," he said.
The new chairman said he and other board members would be making a concerted effort to get to the core of local health issues by speaking to those directly involved.
Mike Horan
- Former health minister
- Spent 20 years as member for Toowoomba South
- Described as the "best health minister ever" by Lawrence Springborg
