The search is on to find a successor to Grant King whose extended term as chairman of the Limestone Coast Local Health Network regional board expires at the end of the month.


The Mount Gambier businessman has chaired the board since its inception several years ago and he was originally scheduled to depart from the role last June.


Mr King was prevailed upon to stay in office for a further 12 months but has resisted further ministerial overtures to remain at the helm for another term.


His service was recognised in State Parliament last week by Health Minister Chris Picton following a query from Independent Mount Gambier MP Troy Bell.


Minister Picton told the House of Assembly that he had sought the advice of Mr King about his successor.


“I pay tribute to Grant King for his incredible service not only in terms of being the Limestone Coast Local Health Network inaugural chair but also more broadly across the Limestone Coast for the many, many facets in which he has provided exceptional leadership and hard work for the community,” Minister Picton said.


“I was successful a year ago in convincing Mr King to extend his service as chair, but I was unsuccessful in convincing him to continue further.


“He has particular family commitments that mean the time required to be the chair, which is a really significant amount of time each week, was becoming too difficult, but he goes with our significant thanks for the work he has done.”


The LCLHN chairman’s position attracts an annual allowance of almost $50,000.