NDS is saddened by the recent passing of friend and colleague, John Morkham on 14 November.  John was a leading contributor to the campaign to create a nationally-focused peak body.  John was the Executive Officer at ACROD when the three peak disability bodies merged to become NDS.

John Morkham was an army officer who had command of the 2nd/15th Field Regiment of the Australian Defence Force.  He then became the Chief Executive Officer of the Tipping Foundation and established innovative and inclusive disability accommodation services.  John used his keen interpersonal skills to work closely with his own staff, with representatives from other organisations and as a board member on the Victorian Residential Associations for Persons with Intellectual Disability (VICRAID).

John was known as a man of absolute integrity who was committed to serving member organisations and people with disability.  He has been described by former colleagues as; respectful, considered, efficient, a raconteur, a gentleman and a real friend.  His legacy of bringing together a united disability sector in Victoria will continue for many years to come. 

Described as 'a kind man with wit, class and style', a number of colleagues remember his excellent cooking and enjoyment of a glass of wine.

Our condolences and thoughts are with the Morkham family at this time.