Winner

Claire Griffiths

Frontline Coordinator (Museums), Isaac Regional Council (2022-2025)

As Frontline Coordinator – Museums at Isaac Regional Council (2022–2025), Claire oversaw a diverse museum network including Clermont Museum, Nebo Museum, St Lawrence Centenary Pavilion, and heritage-listed sites Copperfield Store and Chimney. Her time with the Council marked a period of revitalisation, strategic growth, and cultural change that continues to yield positive outcomes.

Claire championed skills development. As a mentor, leader, creative change-maker, strategic planner, and pragmatic visionary, Claire empowered staff to embrace strategic thinking, pursue professional growth, and believe in the potential of regional museum excellence. Her leadership fostered a culture of collaboration, innovation, and possibility—transforming workplace mindsets and driving sustained improvement.

Highly Commended

Leitha Assan

Exhibitions & Public Programmes Manager, Gab Titui Cultural Centre, Thursday Island

Working at Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Thursday Island for over 15 years, Leitha is an inspiring ambassador for Torres Strait Islander heritage, language, and arts. Her leadership blends cultural knowledge, professionalism, and compassion, championing strong values of truth-telling, inclusion, respect, and justice.

As Exhibitions and Public Programs Manager, Leitha leads a team of First Nations professionals to deliver impactful exhibitions, art awards, language programs, cultural performances, and artist support and sales.

Effie Skoufa-Klesnik

Registration (Loans and Acquisitions), The University of Queensland Art Museum, St Lucia

Effie currently serves as Registrar (Loans & Acquisitions) at UQ Art Museum, following significant roles at the State Library of Queensland and Queensland Arts Council. Her career is defined by excellence in registration practice, a deep commitment to collegiality, and a passion for mentoring the next generation of arts professionals.

Effie has delivered over 120 exhibitions, from grassroots artist-run initiatives to major national and international shows. Her leadership in coordinating the South-East Queensland Registrars Network (SEQRN) highlights her dedication to knowledge-sharing and community-building within the sector.