THE Australian War Memorial has announced that prominent Australian businessman and respected philanthropist, Kerry Stokes AC, has been appointed as Chair of the Memorial’s Council.

Mr Stokes was elected to the Chair’s position at a Council meeting conducted in Canberra on 10 November. Rear-Admiral Ken Doolan completed his term as Chairman of the Council on 11 November 2015.

Kerry Stokes is the Executive Chairman of Seven West Media, he has been reappointed to the Memorial’s Council three times since 2007.

Memorial Director, Dr Brendan Nelson, welcomed Mr Stokes to the Chair’s position and congratulated Rear-Admiral Doolan, who is also National President of the Returned and Services League, for his steadfast leadership of the Council and of the Memorial through a period of immense and positive transformation.

“Rear-Admiral Doolan has been Council Chair for the past 3.5 years,” Brendan said.

“His contribution to Australia’s military history and commemoration has been significant by any standard. Under his leadership and guidance the Memorial has seen major changes to its operations, galleries and place in the heart of the nation. Admiral Doolan has made a major difference and left an enduring legacy.

“The Memorial is proud to welcome Mr Stokes in his role as Council Chair. He is a great Australian who has contributed much to our country on so many different levels – from his business acumen in building the Seven Network and other corporate entities to his passion for Australia’s military history and support of the uniformed men and women who serve our nation.”

“I am very proud to take over from Rear-Admiral Doolan,” Kerry said.

“With the support of the Council, I look forward to continuing the great work that Ken has instigated during his time as Chairman. I am also very happy to be working with the exceptional Memorial team to ensure our institution remains the soul of the nation.

“On a personal note, I am honoured to be entrusted with this role. The Australian War Memorial reflects so much of who we are as a country today and the sacrifices of many Australians and their families. We will ensure those men and women who served this country and continue to serve will never be forgotten. The values they represent are called Australian values. In so many ways those who serve define us.”