Mr Brent Espeland AM has been appointed Chair of the Veterans’ Advisory Council (VAC), replacing the Hon Sir Eric Neal AC CVO who has served in the role with distinction since inception of the VAC in 2008.

The Council’s key aim is to promote the well-being of South Australian Veterans and provide advice to the State Government about matters concerning the Veteran community.

Background
Mr Espeland had a successful 36-year career in the Royal Australian Air Force. He is an experienced commander, having held unit and formation command twice and having tenure as the Air Officer Commanding Training Command and Deputy Chief of Air Force.

His final military position was on secondment to the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, where he was responsible for the coordination of security and intelligence at the national level for the Olympic Games in Sydney.

Mr Espeland then spent 10 years working in senior sports administration at the Australian Sports Commission.

Now retired, he continues to work actively in a number of worthwhile causes, including as the national president of the Australian Flying Corps and the Royal Australian Air Force Association and has other roles with the Repat Foundation, Air Force Advisory Committee and Department of Veterans Affairs Round Table.

Quotes attributable to Investment and Trade Minister Martin Hamilton-Smith
I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Brent Espeland AM and am sure that he will make a great contribution as chair of the Veterans’ Advisory Council and the important work it does.

Along with the Director of Veterans SA, Mr Rob Manton, I consulted with a number of prominent veterans including those currently serving on the VAC. Mr Espeland received strong support from all who were consulted and I very much look forward to working closely with him.

I would also like to take this opportunity to again thank the Hon Sir Eric Neal AC CVO for his long service, dedication and stewardship with the VAC.