Winner

Dr Gary Smith

Honorary Curator, Australian Dental Association Queenslands (ADAQ) Museum of Dentistry

Passionate about his specialised field, Dr Gary Smith is recognised for his outstanding contribution to the preservation and celebration of Queensland’s dental heritage and history. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Museum of Dentistry at the Australian Dental Association Queensland (ADAQ) and has worked tirelessly to preserve its collections for future generations and to ensure its success.

Dr Smith’s remarkable efforts in capturing the forms and preserving dental objects through his exceptional photography skills, restoration work, and conducting extensive research have set a new standard of practice in the field. His dedication to raising the level of professionalism within the organisation is evident through his instrumental role in Museum projects at ADAQ and his proactive approach to networking and seeking expertise from other museums and societies to implement best practices.

Dr Smith’s engagement with students, colleagues, aged care groups and the wider community through his captivating lectures on the history of dentistry has sparked meaningful discussions and contributed to a deeper understanding of this field. His recent achievement of having his article, Robert Livingstone Mearns: Pioneering Queensland Dentist, accepted by the British Dental Association’s Dental Historian journal, showcasing his ability to piece together scattered puzzle pieces and shed new light on the actions of past pioneers of dentistry in Queensland, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. Furthermore, Dr Smith’s dental history posts on the ADAQ Facebook community page are amongst the highest engagement scores and often spur fascinating discussions.

He consistently leads by example and inspires others within and outside of the Museum. His passion is infectious, and through his curated exhibition displays, research and talks about the Museum of Dentistry, he has ‘recruited’ other retired and current ADAQ members to volunteer. He also donated his own vintage dental cabinet and other items from his personal collection to the Museum.

Highly Commended

Lindsay Wilson

Lead Researcher and Volunteer, Australian Army Military Intelligence Museum (AAMIM)

Over his exemplary career at the Australian Army History Unit, Lindsay Wilson has demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovative thinking, and an unwavering commitment to advancing Australia’s history of military intelligence. From 1988 to the present day, his contributions have significantly enriched their Corps business, the broader museum community, as well as the cultural life of past and present intelligence members.

In his position as the Lead Researcher and Volunteer at the Australian Army Military Intelligence Museum, Lindsay has dedicated a substantial amount of his personal time to ensure that military intelligence has been represented appropriately. This includes the development of a major database which has become an indispensable resource for his organisation.

Lindsay’s commitment to research is evident in his numerous curatorial essays, where he shares his findings and contributes to the wider military intelligence body of knowledge. He has designed and implemented programs for all age groups, demographics and levels of knowledge. These initiatives have resulted in increased attendance and visitor engagement. Through Lindsay’s efforts, he has highlighted diverse perspectives and the Museum has become more welcoming and inclusive, which has contributed to fostering social cohesion and understanding.

Collaborating on joint research projects with other museums within the Australian Army History Unit, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Australian Navy and forming and maintaining partnerships with other government agencies are also key strengths of Lindsay Wilson. He consistently leads by example and inspires others to innovate and improve. Additionally, he has initiated outreach programs targeting underrepresented communities, including our First Nations peoples. Furthermore, his Intelligence Database is a complex long-term project that has enhanced the management and operation of the AAMIM.

Finalist

Robyn Wallace

Secretary, Queensland Women’s Historical Association (QWHA)

Robyn joined QWHA in 2008 and in 2014, became a trainee guide to visitors of The Miegunyah House Museum – twelve months later she went solo, and to this day continues this volunteer role, engaging visitors in lively stories of this historic house museum, its contents and the lives of its past residents.

Robyn has been an invaluable volunteer for the QWHA for many years, serving in various roles such as a house guide, committee member, Membership Secretary, and coordinator of guiding and kitchen rosters. She is happy to muck in with the cleaning, polishing, dusting and mopping. Additionally, she has become one of the most prolific scone bakers in the history of the Association, contributing to the QWHA’s well-earned reputation for serving first-rate Devonshire Teas!

From her pivotal roles within the organisation to her exceptional leadership and community engagement, Robyn has consistently gone above and beyond to make a meaningful impact. She demonstrates remarkable professionalism, administrative prowess, and meticulous attention to detail, contributing to elevating the standards of the organisation and setting a sterling example for her peers.

Robyn’s ability to foster partnerships, embrace diversity, and proactively engage with diverse communities has significantly enriched the organisation’s outreach and impact. Notably, she has actively nurtured relationships with Brisbane’s Chinese community and aged care facilities, leading to meaningful exchanges and increased participation, exemplifying her innovative and inclusive approach to community engagement.