RHSA Board Member Bios

Lieutenant Colonel David Arden RFD (Retd)
Over 40 years in emergency management and aviation, 50 years in the Australian Defence Force. As RHSA President, he leads with a deep commitment to community service, drawing on extensive experience in crisis and emergency management.

Dr Ingrid Brooks
With 30+ years in emergency nursing and paramedic education, Dr. Brooks has been pivotal in developing paramedicine programs at Monash University. Her work at the Australian Nurses Memorial Centre honours the legacy of Australian nurses and promotes ongoing education.

Mr Neil Carabine
A Senior Consultant at King & Wood Mallesons, Neil has over two decades of expertise in mergers, acquisitions, and telecommunications. Recognised globally as a top telecoms lawyer, he is also dedicated to advancing cancer research through his board work with the Snowdome Foundation.

Ms Frances Evans OAM
A veteran in lifesaving with 25+ years of leadership at the Royal Life Saving Society and Life Saving Victoria, Frances has been recognised with the Order of Merit for her contributions to drowning prevention and rescue.

Captain David De Souza
A leader in maritime and aviation, Captain De Souza's career is marked by significant contributions to both industries. His philanthropic work with Angel Flight Australia, where he completed over 150 missions, reflects his deep commitment to serving regional communities.

Assistant Commissioner Tim Hansen APM, Victoria Police
A distinguished Victoria Police leader, Tim's 30+ year career spans diverse areas of policing. He currently shapes police training and safety policy, with his contributions recognised by the Australian Police Medal.

Major General David McLachlan AO AO (Mil) (Retd)
A veteran with a 30+ year military career, Major General McLachlan has led significant advancements for veterans as the former State President of RSL Victoria and Veterans Employment Advocate. His leadership has been recognised with dual Officer of the Order of Australia honours.

Mr Ian Knight
With 20 years in Victoria Police, rising to Detective Senior Sergeant, Ian has transitioned into senior finance roles at leading institutions like AXA and Westpac. A dedicated surf lifesaver, he has been a community leader at Point Leo SLSC since 1974.

Mr Tony Murphy AFSM
A distinguished leader in emergency services, Tony served as Deputy Commissioner at Emergency Management Victoria, where his leadership in emergency planning and response earned him national recognition, including the Australian Fire Service Medal.

Mr Taki Pakavakis FCA
Taki is a Chartered Accountant and Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand with more than forty years in public practice. A life member and Treasurer of the South Melbourne Life Saving Club, he continues to volunteer at Sandringham Hospital and through The Chatty Café Scheme at Beaumaris Library, promoting community connection and wellbeing.

Mr Trevor White AFSM
An experienced emergency management practitioner, Trevor's leadership at the Country Fire Authority and Victoria State Emergency Service has significantly strengthened community resilience. His collaborative approach in emergency response has made him a pivotal figure in the sector.

Professor Noel Woodford MBBS LLM DMJ FRCPath FRCPA
Professor Woodford is Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine and Chair in Forensic Medicine at Monash University. A senior forensic pathologist trained in Australia and the United Kingdom, he leads Victoria’s independent forensic medical service supporting coroners, courts, and the community, advancing public health and justice through evidence-based practice.