From Peter McMullin AM, Chair
Music has a remarkable capacity to bring people together. At Melbourne Recital Centre, we have a responsibility to nurture that connection, supporting artists to do their best work and welcoming more people to experience it.
It is with this purpose in mind that I welcome David Manne, Deirdre Blythe and Susan Thacore to our Board. Together, they bring experience across human rights, community advocacy, arts leadership, philanthropy and financial stewardship. This will be invaluable as we broaden participation in the Centre’s cultural life, support our artistic ambitions and strengthen our long-term sustainability.
David’s work as a human rights lawyer and CEO of Refugee Legal brings a strong perspective on inclusion, community advocacy and public life. Deirdre’s extensive executive experience includes eight years as Chief Operating Officer of Arts Centre Melbourne, giving her a deep appreciation of the practical demands of running a major cultural institution. Susan brings more than 30 years of governance experience, including leadership of arts organisations and philanthropic foundations, and a strong commitment to an inclusive and sustainable cultural sector.
Their experience adds to the breadth of knowledge and perspectives already represented on our Board. Together, we will consider both the opportunities ahead and the decisions needed to sustain a thriving Centre for years to come.
With The Beacon now open, we have new possibilities for performance and new ways for audiences to connect with music. Across our three spaces, we are continuing to develop Melbourne Recital Centre as a year-round festival of music – a place to return to favourite artists, encounter unfamiliar voices and discover something unexpected.
Our Board’s role is to support this ambition with thoughtful governance, sound stewardship and an understanding of the communities we serve. I look forward to working with David, Deirdre and Susan, alongside my fellow Directors, CEO Sandra Willis and the Centre’s team, as we build on this momentum.