MJDF announces the appointment of a new Chairperson.

The MJD Foundation (MJDF) is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Board Chairperson, Ms Jenny Macklin. This appointment follows the former Chairperson Neil Westbury’s decision to stand down following 12 years in the position. Responding to the MJDF Board’s invitation, Ms Macklin stated ‘I am greatly honoured to take up the role and eagerly looking forward to continuing to support MJDFs critical work in the Northern Territory and Far North Queensland’. Ms Macklin went on to pay tribute to all those who have come before and laid the basis for such a successful organisation, whilst also highlighting the importance of continuing to be guided by those individuals and families living with Machado-Joseph Disease. Both MJDF’s Deputy Chair Gayangwa Lalara OAM and Board member Tony Wurramarrba AO welcomed Ms Macklin’s appointment. ‘Jenny brings a wealth of experience combined with a strong personal commitment to the work of the Foundation. These qualities should prove invaluable going forward given the critical challenges being currently faced in relation to the NDIS and ongoing lack of infrastructure and services in remote communities’ they both said. Ms Macklin further stated, ‘I am in the particularly fortunate position of joining a Board that includes significant expertise and that is well served by an outstanding CEO, and passionate and committed staff members’. As per the unanimous request of all MJDF Board members, Mr Neil Westbury has agreed to remain on the Board. He stated ‘It has been an enormous privilege and pleasure to have the confidence of the Board and hold the role of Chairperson of the MJDF for almost 12 years. MJDF is a remarkable organisation and I remain committed and willing to stay on the Board as a Director to continue to provide whatever supports I can’.