Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania has this month welcomed its new CEO, Belinda Barnes, to join the team in
carrying on the essential task of caring for the State’s homeless and abandoned dogs.

Ms Barnes served in a variety of managerial positions in the health and fitness industry in Western
Australia, including as CEO of the Australian Institute of Fitness (W.A.), and more recently with the
Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Service.

Ms Barnes’ long track record in business development, management and effective teamwork
combined with her passion for animals is set to reinvigorate the not-for-profit organisation in
sustainably reaching its goals.

President of the board, Noel Hunt, said approximately 3,500 lost, stray or abandoned dogs pass
through the Dogs’ Homes each year and the majority are reclaimed or adopted.

“Our number one priority is caring for our dogs by continuing the work we have been doing over the
past 64 years,” Mr Hunt said.

“We have appointed Ms Barnes who will strengthen our organisation, improve the lot of our dogs
and continue our excellent financial and strategic management.

“The professional experience and commitment which Ms Barnes brings to this leadership role will
help us to do that in the best way possible.”

Mr Hunt also paid tribute to the contribution of previous CEO, David Peters, who came out of
retirement to assist the organisation. David Peters will be joining the board of directors and will be
providing a comprehensive handover of operations to Ms Barnes.

Ms Barnes, a dog-lover and recent convert to the Tasmanian way of life, grew up in Canada in a
family dedicated to the care, sustainable breeding and adoption of animals.

“From a young age I have always felt a great compassion for animals. Becoming aware of the puppy
farm trade and the lack of laws regulating the pet industry has motivated me to help ensure the
health and wellbeing of all dogs,” Ms Barnes said.

While she is well aware of the challenges ahead and emotional heartache experienced in dealing
with abandoned pets, Ms Barnes says she is driven by the reward which comes from seeing these
dogs adopted by loving new owners.

“I am incredibly excited about joining the Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania to help bring happiness and
health to the lives of the beautiful dogs we care for and joy to those who foster and adopt them,”
Ms Barnes said.

“I’m looking forward to working with the passionate and dedicated staff and volunteers of the Dogs’
Homes of Tasmania as well as the Council staff who work tirelessly to ensure a high level of care and
positive outcomes for the dogs who need our care.”
Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania President, Noel Hunt