Two of our Northern Health family have received recognition in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours.

Dr Sherene Devanesen AM, Board Director, and Dr Amanda Baric AM, Deputy Director, Anaesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, have received the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division.

The Order of Australia is the nation’s recognition for outstanding achievement and service, and recipients were announced on Monday by the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd).

Dr Sherene Devanesen AM, Board Director, Northern Health, received the member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division, for significant service to community health through governance and administrative roles.

“Appointed to the Northern Health Board on 1 July 2021, Sherene is a medical practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in the management of health services and medical administration in Victoria. This experience has provided her with a strong reputation in consumer consultation and engagement, and in achieving quality outcomes for human and community services,” said Jennifer Williams AM, Board Chair, Northern Health.

“Sherene is a valued colleague and has made significant contributions during her tenure on the Northern Health Board. I value her advice and expertise, and sincerely congratulate her on this significant achievement,” Ms Williams said.

Dr Amanda Baric AM, Deputy Director, Anaesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, Northern Health, received the member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division, for significant service to pain medicine, and to tertiary education.

“Amanda’s dedication and enthusiasm are evident to all who know her. Whether it’s teaching medical students, developing educational programs in many places (even so far as Mongolia or Myanmar), or providing exceptional anaesthesia care to her patients, she approaches everything she does with incredible passion and energy,” said Dr Jake Geertsema, Director, Department of Anaesthesia and Perioperative Medicine.

“Her contributions were rightfully acknowledged in 2022 when ANZCA awarded her the Robert Orton medal (the highest award the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists can bestow on its fellows, and this latest recognition only reinforces the impact she has made,” Dr Geertseema said.

Siva Sivarajah, Chief Executive, Northern Health, congratulated both Dr Devanesen AM and Dr Baric AM on receiving this significant honour.

“This is a well-deserved acknowledgment of many years of service from both Sherene and Amanda in their respective fields, and of the positive impacts in our community. Congratulations.”