Palms Annual General Meeting was held on 12 October. Members voted in John Bradley, Samantha Haddin, Veronica Lawson, Jennifer Newman, and Liz Stone onto the 2023-2026 Board of Directors. The Directors invited a further three individuals to join the Board, who have accepted – Greg Browne, Rachel Donovan and Bishop Tim Norton SVD (Archdiocese of Brisbane). They will lead us in our journey forward to reinforce Palms Vision and Values in the achievement of our mission globally as well as our mission in Australia to build and nourish neighbours without borders.
Outgoing directors Dr Stephen Yates, Sr Philippa Murphy, Ben Thurley, John Powell and Brendan Joyce have provided great guidance over recent years. Indeed Brendan has provided invaluable support to Palms over the best part of 20 years. In 2018 Brendan’s efforts were acknowledged with Palms highest honour, the Roy Boylan Solidarity Award for long-term commitment to justice and peace at home and abroad.
Brendan’s participation started on a global mission as a teacher mentor in Bougainville (2003-04). Shortly after his return he joined the staff and stayed for eight years, finishing as Assistant Director in 2014. He then served for six years as a twice elected member of the board and was appointed again for another three by the elected board members in 2021.
Also to be acknowledged is the work of the 2021-23 board chair, Liz Stone. While Liz continues to serve on the board she has handed over the reins. The newly elected directors supported her nomination of Veronica Lawson as the new chair.