St John NSW Board Chair Mr Sean McGuinness CStJ officially retired from his role at the conclusion of the Priory Weekend on 23 November, after more than ten years of proud and dedicated service to St John NSW and the St John Ambulance Australia Priory Board.

His tenure concluded in accordance with St John NSW constitution and the Board tenure and renewal framework, having completed the maximum period of service.

Sean expressed “I feel this is the right moment to step aside in keeping with St John’s strong governance values, and I am confident in the organisation’s strategic direction and the Board’s capability to lead into this next phase of growth and community service. I extend my best wishes to all members for their continued success in the years ahead”.

Reflecting on more than a decade of service, Sean described the experience as a privilege and acknowledged the shared commitment to advancing St John’s mission and supporting the communities we serve. “I share my deepest gratitude for the collaboration and support of fellow Directors, Executive Team, and above all the dedicated members whose contribution underpins our extraordinary impact”.

The Board’s succession plan welcomes the appointment of Ms Larissa Cook to the Chair role. Larissa joined St John NSW as a Director in 2022 and brings more than 30 years’ extensive experience as a strategic commercial and legal executive specialising in health and medical law having served other emergency services and volunteer organisations in Board director roles.

Sean continues volunteering with St John NSW having recently joined the Archives Team.

Please join me in congratulating Larissa and celebrating Sean’s significant contribution to St John.

Dominic Teakle, Chief Executive Officer