Recent Committee Report, AUSTA (NSW) Chapter, September 2025

The NSW Chapter took a little time off after the National Conference in Sydney in July. We felt that the conference was a big success for all and of course for AUSTA as a whole. There was a great spirit of collegiality, curiosity and collaboration – also marvelous to see so many friends from interstate and regional areas. The NSW committee worked together thoughtfully and tactfully. In particular, the committee’s planning committee with Evgeny Sorkin, Douglas Glanville, Victoria Jacono-Gilmovich, Nicole Strohfeldt and myself should be mentioned for their superb work in making the conference possible. The first in-person meeting of the AUSTA National Executive was a great start to the conference – after some years we finally got together in person. Great to have the help of AUSTA chapters, especially Amy, Cara, Stephanie and also Gina as well the support from so many thoughtful colleagues and delegates. Special thanks to the wonderful new AUSTA administrator Maxine Gatt! We are still consolidating financial results with a significant profit likely for AUSTA National!

The State award from the conference was recently presented to Georg Pedersen at the Conservatorium and the National awards jointly conveyed posthumously to Prof. Alice Waten and Ms. Joy Lee were presented to Prof. Ole Bohn who will display them in his room at the Conservatorium previously occupied by Alice Waten together with a number of related memorabilia.

NSW Chapter is now turning its mind to the remainder of the year with a performers’ festival for November 16.

Thank you all at AUSTA and particularly the magnificent NSW Chapter Committee for great support and exemplary, professional collaboration.

Dr Goetz Richter AM (NSW, President)