The COTA Tasmania Board is made up of a diverse group of individuals with a range of skills and passion to serve older Tasmanians.
The Board leads COTA Tasmania to achieve our Vision and Mission. Directors are elected at the AGM held in November each year.
View our 5 year COTA Strategic Plan
COTA TASMANIA PRESIDENT
Ingrid HarrisonIngrid’s wealth of expertise as a communication and media specialist, along with her hands-on approach as the co-director of Bright Company, positions her as a valuable asset to the COTA Tasmania board. Her extensive background in communication across various sectors, including government, businesses, and the non-profit sector, equips her with the skills needed to advocate effectively for COTA Tasmania’s mission. As a Life Fellow of the Public Relations Institute of Australia, Ingrid brings a high level of professionalism and strategic knowledge to her role. Her passion for effective communication and proven track record of successful projects, recognised both nationally and internationally, represent her commitment to delivering outstanding results.
In her role as president, Ingrid is dedicated to applying her skills and experience to amplify COTA Tasmania’s messages and objectives. Her unique perspective and ability to navigate diverse communication challenges make her an invaluable leader, helping the board effectively communicate and engage with stakeholders. Ingrid’s presidency adds significant value to COTA Tasmania, fostering stronger connections and advocacy within the community.
VICE PRESIDENT
Jennifer Branch-Allen
Jennifer Branch-Allen is an advocate with a rich background in community service. Currently serving as the CEO of Kidsafe Tasmania, Jennifer’s commitment to child safety is evident in this role. Jennifer’s involvement as an independent advocate for The Gardens Aged Care and her work with residents of Lady Clark Retirement Village reflect her deep engagement in the aged care sector. With a strong foundation in Board and governance skills, Jennifer brings a strategic and passionate approach to her roles. Her passion for the sector is a driving force, and as a member of the board, Jennifer’s skills and commitment promise to contribute significantly to the objectives and mission of COTA Tasmania. Her diverse experiences and leadership qualities make her a valuable asset in advocating for the welfare and rights of older Tasmanians.
TREASURER
Christine Bell
Christine Bell is a seasoned professional with an extensive business and board background, bringing a wealth of experience to the table. As the former CEO of Southern Waste Solutions, Christine has demonstrated her leadership skills in the environmental sector. Her impressive credentials include being a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants of Australia and New Zealand, as well as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Christine’s commitment to governance is further highlighted by her past roles as a Board member of MAIB (Motor Accidents Insurance Board) and Transend Networks. Her diverse career includes senior management positions in local government for two councils and a financial controller role in private enterprise. A strong advocate for the not-for-profit sector, Christine Bell’s expertise in business, finance, and governance positions her as a valuable asset for COTA Tasmania’s board.
DIRECTORS
Carl Cooper
Carl has a varied and interesting work life mix, including roles such as secondary teaching, singing performances, community and review pharmacist practice, and teaching pharmacy students at CSU, Wagga Wagga, and UTAS. In addition, he has experience as a community pharmacy proprietor. Since the 2019, Carl has dedicated his full attention to overseeing their Wilmores Bluff property while also serving as an accredited and Locum Pharmacist in and around Launceston. Carl is a proud member of the West Tamar Rotary Club and Rotary Tasmania Community Care, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the health of Tasmanians, particularly in regional and remote areas of the state.
Alan ClarkÂ
Alan has a varied professional background, combining senior expertise in commercial real estate and specialised business broking across Tasmania and Queensland. With over 35 years of experience, Alan has established himself as an industry leader, having served as a board member of the Property Council of Australia (TAS). Beyond his real estate achievements, Alan also has media and marketing background in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. His extensive executive experience in TV, radio, advertising, and marketing, coupled with roles in the Real Estate Institute of Tasmania and the Property Council of Tasmania, underscores his diverse skill set. Â Alan has a lifelong interest in positive ageing, caring, justice and compassion for older people in our communities. Alan’s varied experiences and passion make him a valuable advocate and contributor as a member of COTA Tasmania’s board.
Paul Lan
Paul Lan is a licensed architect and a distinguished Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA). Paul has served, by ministerial appointment, on the Regional Development of Australia Tasmania Board. Currently, Paul is an active member of the Chinese Community Association of Tasmania, and is also a representative on the Multicultural Council of Tasmania (MCOT), emphasising his commitment to promoting cultural diversity and understanding within the community. Paul brings a unique blend of professional expertise, cultural insight, and community engagement to the table. His passion for spreading COTA’s messages into the regions aligns showcases his commitment to ensuring that the voices and needs of diverse communities are represented and advocated for.
Claire Prior
Claire Prior is currently State Director of Supportive Care for the Cancer Council and a former Lead for Primary Health Tasmania. Claire’s latter role at PHT involved community consultation and stakeholder engagement providing insights into the health needs (gaps) for older Tasmanians particularly in rural areas, as well as on the frontline as a registered nurse primarily working with older Tasmanians over 65.
Sue Wilson
Sue Wilson is currently Lead Evaluation and Research, Murray Primary Health Network, Victoria. Sue (who is based in Tasmania), has a strong commitment to the provision of high-quality evidence-based service in clinical practice, education and capacity building, service administration and governance. She has more than 20 years’ experience in leadership and management in the Victorian Public Health sector including nearly 10 years in Executive level positions. Sue also brings lived experience of navigating the system for her parents who both passed away in the past five years.
Aaron De La Torre
Aaron De La Torre is a current Councillor for Brighton Council and Community Outreach Partner for TasNetworks. Aaron has very strong credentials in non-profit governance, leadership and community. He has had a long-time involvement with the Lions Club of Brighton, as former President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Membership Director as well as Vice President and Treasurer for the Tasmanian Junior Beekeepers. He is a former Executive Director of Unions Tasmania and the Australian Services Union.