Inspirational Women's Leadership and Outstanding Leadership

Barbara Thompson

Barbara was awarded the Inspirational Women's Leadership Award and the overall Sir John Monash Award for Outstanding Leadership.

Barbara has been a leader in the Monash community for more than 50 years.

Barbara served as a councillor of the City of Waverley from 1985 to 1994, was Deputy Mayor in 1988-1989 and then served as Mayor in 1989-1990.

Barbara’s long list of achievements is a testament to her hard work for the community.

She has served as Deputy Chair of the Dandenong Valley Authority, was a Board member of the Inner Eastern Group Training Scheme and the driving force behind the establishment of this wonderful facility – the Monash Gallery of Art – and is currently a trustee of The Monash Gallery of Art Foundation.  

Her work for the Waverley Branch of the Bone Marrow Donor Association saw the branch raise over $300,000 towards this important cause.

She was deservedly awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2004 for community service.

Barbara’s enormous energy, commitment to her community over the past 50 years and her inspirational leadership - striving to do her best in all situations - makes her a very worthy winner of the Sir John Monash Award for Outstanding Leadership.