Parliament House Canberra ACT 2602
Telephone 02 6277 7820 Facsimile 02 6273 4140
The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA093
Monday, 16 December 2009
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL COUNCIL APPOINTMENT
National President of the Returned & Services League of Australia, Rear Admiral Ken Doolan
AO RAN (Retd), has been appointed to the Council of the Australian War Memorial, the Minister
for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, announced today.
Mr Griffin said the Council plays an important role in ensuring the Australian War Memorial
continues to honour Australian service.
Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia,
approved Rear Admiral Doolan’s appointment to the Council as a part-time member for a three-
year term.
“Rear Admiral Doolan will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Council,
particularly in relation to the Royal Australian Navy,” Mr Griffin said.
“Rear Admiral Doolan served as an officer during the Indonesian Confrontation and the Vietnam
War; as Commanding Officer of HMAS Tobruk in 1980 and HMAS Brisbane in 1984. In 1990
he served as Maritime Commander Australia and Operational Commander for all Australian
combatant force deployed to the 1990-91 Gulf Crisis and Gulf War as part of Operation
Damask. “
Since leaving the Australian Defence Force, he has held important and influential roles in the
Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal, the Order of Australia Association and currently as
National President of the RSL. He has also written several historical works about the Australian
Navy.
“His blend of skills and experience and interest in military history will enable him to make an
important contribution to the Council’s work,” Mr Griffin said.
The Australian War Memorial Council comprises up to ten part-time members, and the Chief of
Navy, Chief of Army, the Chief of Air Force as ex-officio members. As part of the continuing
legacy of commemorating Australia’s wartime service, the Council is responsible for the
strategic direction of the Australian War Memorial.
Media inquiries: Belinda Cole 0437 863 109
The VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a
week on 1800 011 046.
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