Caroline Wells will be Tasmania’s 30th governor, taking on a role she says she never expected but is determined to fill with compassion and pragmatism.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced the appointment on Wednesday morning, after formal approval from King Charles III.
Wells will be sworn in on June 17, replacing Barbara Baker, whose term ends June 15. She will be Tasmania’s third consecutive female governor.
A registered nurse who graduated from the University of Tasmania in 1985, Wells went on to lead Diabetes Tasmania as chief executive from 2005 and held national advisory roles with Diabetes Australia.
She currently chairs the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania.
She also holds an MBA from Deakin University, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has professional coaching qualifications.
“It’s such an honour to be named as the 30th governor,” Wells said.
“It is a privilege and with it comes great responsibility and I just cannot tell you how humbled I feel.”
A self-described “born and bred Tasmanian”, Wells said she wanted to use the role to spotlight the state and its people.
“I’m a passionate and committed Tasmanian, and we have so much to share to the world,” she said.
“I’m very much roll the sleeves up, get on with the job.”
Wells said she would lead with “compassion and kindness” alongside “a healthy dose of pragmatism”.
She flagged community connection, investment and trade and the social determinants of health as priorities.
Rockliff praised Wells as a “fine Tasmanian” who had prioritised community health throughout her career.
“I know that Ms Wells will serve with compassionate and purposeful leadership underpinned by a strong commitment to all Tasmanians,” he said.
Rockliff also thanked outgoing governor Barbara Baker, saying her service to the Tasmanian community “cannot be understated”.
Wells will move into Government House with her partner Rob Walters and their 17-year-old cat.
