The IHHC is pleased to announce that John Boland, former National President and current SA Branch Chair, has been awarded Life Membership of the IHHC. The announcement was made at the IHHC National Conference Gala Dinner and Awards Night on the final night of this year’s National Conference.

John is currently Chair of the SA Branch of the IHHC - his second term in that post after relinquishing it in 2019 following 12 years in the position, only to take up the reins once again last year. He also spent 12 years on the IHHC National Board, six of them as National President, and was the 2019 recipient of the IHHC Leadership Award.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, John studied at Dublin College of Catering Cathal Brugha Street then completed a four-year chef apprenticeship. He worked at various hotels in Ireland before emigrating to Australia in 1985. He was on the opening team of chefs for Jupiter’s Casino and the Hilton Hotel Gold Coast, followed by a stint on Hamilton Island before setting out on a drive to Perth only to stop in Adelaide where he decided to settle.

John has had a long career in health and aged care and is supposedly semi-retired, although he is still much in demand as a hospitality services consultant for catering, cleaning and laundry services. After being introduced to the IHHC by Angelo Mignanelli at LHI Retirement Services, where he was working as Hotel and Services Manager, he joined us in 1996. Over time he grew more and more involved and in 2004 joined the SA Branch Committee, then became first SA Branch Vice Chair and later Chair when the position became available following Angelo’s resignation. This journey saw him join the IHHC National Board and rise from the position of “new kid on the block” to Vice President and then National President in 2013 until 2019.

John met his wife Alison while working at LHI, where he was promoted to General Manager Hospitality Services. During his time on the IHHC National Board he achieved many milestones, most notably reigniting interest in the IHHC in WA with the assistance and support of Carey Bray. John has also focused on expanding our supporter base and building the profile of the IHHC within the broader health and aged care sector.

“Outside of work, John’s friendly and humorous nature has made him a beloved figure among colleagues and supporters,” said IHHC’s Carey Bray in presenting John with his Life Membership at the IHHC Gala Dinner. “He’s known for his quick wit, love for a drink and enjoyment of socialising. His Irish brogue and playful nickname of Captain Fantastic – fantastic being one of his favourite words – reflects his cheerful personality.

“John is a cherished member of the IHHC family and truly deserves this honour. His passionate advocacy is deeply appreciated and we hope he remains involved as his presence will be sorely missed if he ever steps away.”

On accepting his Life Membership, John confessed to being a bit teary after listening to Carey’s introduction, adding: “You’ve put me on the spot – it’s not often that an Irishman’s caught for words! I’m very humbled and just blown away by this honour. Coming out to Australia as a young bloke and starting out with no family, friends or relatives, just for an adventure –  it’s been a hell of a journey and there are many people to thank along the way. Angelo Mignanelli was our National President and my mentor in SA for many many years, and of course our National Secretary Kathy Manning, who is an absolute Trojan of a lady.

“I love the IHHC and I can honestly say I’ve cherished every moment of my involvement  – I’ve tried to bow out of being SA Chair a few times now, but at the moment I’m still here! I’d just like to give a huge, huge thank you to each and every one of the IHHC family. I also feel we owe our Supporters a massive thanks for every Conference and every Gold and Platinum Package they take out – the financial support is hugely valued, but it’s also their professional networks, advice and information that makes a big difference to us.”