The Abbotsford Convent Foundation today announces the retirement of its Chair, Ms Gillian Franklin, and acknowledges her significant contribution to the organisation and precinct since her appointment in 2023.
One of Australia’s most respected company directors and a longstanding advocate for the arts and for women in business, Gillian brought energy, generosity and strategic insight to the role. Earlier this year, she advised the Board of her intention to step down, remaining in the position while a number of important organisational priorities progressed, including advancement of the Convent’s Master Plan.
Under Gillian’s leadership, the Foundation strengthened its long-term planning and governance, and laid important foundations for the precinct’s continued growth and sustainability.
She also oversaw the Convent’s 20th anniversary year, marking two decades since the community campaign that secured the site’s future. During Gillian’s tenure, the Foundation delivered significant heritage improvements, including the reinstatement of the historic Cork Oak Path, welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors, and maintained its commitment to keeping the precinct open and accessible to the public every day of the year.
The Board has commenced a process to appoint a new Chair and will announce further details in due course.
We thank Gillian for her dedication, wisdom and leadership. Her contribution to the Foundation has been considerable, and we are grateful for all she has given to the Convent.
We remain focused on supporting the organisation, its people and its purpose, and look forward to continuing our work with the many artists, tenants, partners, supporters and community members who help make the Convent such a valued cultural asset.
The Foundation remains grateful for the care, contribution and participation that collectively shape the Abbotsford Convent precinct.