Resthaven has announced the retirement of long-serving Board President Mark Porter, marking the end of two decades of service to the organisation, while welcoming Stephanie Rozokos as the new Board President from 1 January 2026.
Mr Porter joined the Resthaven Board in 2005 and went on to serve 13 years as Board President following the retirement of Carole Davidson in 2012. At the time of his appointment to the Board, he was Principal of Woodcroft College and a board member of both the State and National Associations of Independent Schools.
Resthaven Chief Executive Officer Darren Birbeck paid tribute to Mr Porter’s leadership and enduring contribution.
“Mark is the epitome of wisdom. He has a talent for seeing the bigger picture and for identifying the potential in others,” Mr Birbeck said.
“For 20 years, Mark’s visionary leadership, unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have played a pivotal role in guiding Resthaven to where it stands today. We are deeply grateful for his many contributions.”
Mr Porter was formally recognised for his service at his final Board meeting as President on 1 December 2025.
As Resthaven honours Mr Porter’s legacy, the organisation is also looking to the future with the appointment of Ms Rozokos as Board President. Ms Rozokos brings more than 20 years of experience across corporate services, including finance, contracts and procurement, people and culture, information technology, strategy and risk management. She is currently Chief Operating Officer of the South Australian Tourism Commission and is a Certified Practising Accountant.
Ms Rozokos has been a member of the Resthaven Board since 2019 and has served as Deputy Board President since 2021.
“We are excited to move into this new chapter with Stephanie as Board President,” Mr Birbeck added. “Her experience, skills and natural abilities ensure she will play a critical role in advancing our vision of enriching the lives of older people.”
Following Ms Rozokos’s appointment, Michael Haydon has been named Deputy Board President. Mr Haydon has been a Board member since 2019, is a former Board Treasurer, and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) as well as being a Chartered Accountant. Freddy Bartlett, a Board member since 2022 and Managing Director of property and infrastructure funds manager ICAM, has been appointed Board Treasurer.
Reflecting on Mr Porter’s tenure, Mr Birbeck also acknowledged his personal support during challenging periods for the sector.
“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and the Aged Care Royal Commission, Mark provided clear guidance, compassion and unwavering commitment to our residents, clients, staff and community,” he said. “He has strengthened our organisation and enabled us to continue delivering safe, high-quality care to older South Australians.”
