The appointment of three prominent South Australians to Flinders University’s Council will bring high-level skills from both public and private sectors to the University’s governing body, according to the Chancellor, Mr Stephen Gerlach (pictured).

The new members are long-time Salisbury Council CEO, Mr Stephen Hains; renowned feature film producer, Ms Kerry Heysen; and award-winning IT entrepreneur, Mr Marty Gauvin.

“With these appointments, Flinders acquires a wealth of business and professional dynamism that will assist the University in pursuing its strategic aims and in the oversight of its operations,” Mr Gerlach said.

“Through their insights and input, the new Council members will contribute to the enhancement of student educational opportunities, and to the improvement of the application of technology to the University’s operations for the benefit of students.

“They will also add substantially to the contacts and links with the communities that the University serves and supports.”

Mr Hains, who retires after two decades as Salisbury Council’s CEO this year, has also headed a number of economic development, planning and environmental agencies for the State Government. Mr Hains, who also serves on regional development boards, has  a strong involvement with Flinders in his roles as a member of the University Resources Committee and as President of the Alumni Association.

Ms Heysen, a Flinders graduate, has enjoyed international critical and commercial success in the course of her career, with credits that include feature films Shine, Hearts in Atlantis and Snow Falling On Cedars. Her films are the recipients of a number of Oscar, BAFTA and AFI nominations and awards. CEO and Head of Production and Development for a group of companies, Ms Heysen is also a viticulturist and a member of the board of Wine Grapes Australia.

Mr Marty Gauvin is the founder and director of several successful IT companies, including Hostworks, the first Internet hosting service to be listed on the ASX. Young Australian of the Year in 1988, he is currently Managing Director of data centre company Tier 5 and cloud computing company Virtual Ark, and serves on numerous boards and bodies that provide government and industry with advice on IT development and venture capital investment.

“The new members will add further strength to the formidable range of talent and experience that already exists on University Council, and I very much look forward to working with them,” Mr Gerlach said.