Winner

Mayor of Ipswich, Teresa Harding, presenting Edith Cuffe with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Photograph by Sarah Marshall, Jiriki Media. Courtesy of Museums & Galleries Queensland.

Edith Cuffe

Chair of the Board (previously CEO), Abbey Museum of Art & Archaeology

Edith Cuffe OAM was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to Queensland’s museum sector and more than four decades of dedicated service to the Abbey Museum of Art & Archaeology.

Beginning as a volunteer at the Museum in 1977 and later serving as Chief Executive Officer and Museum Director, Edith has transformed a small regional museum into a highly respected cultural organisation with national and international reach. Through her vision, leadership and business acumen, she has secured major infrastructure investment, expanded exhibitions and educational programs, established enduring partnerships, and successfully guided the organisation through periods of significant growth and challenge.

A passionate advocate for museums, history, education and community participation, Edith has inspired generations of staff, volunteers and supporters while fostering a culture of learning, inclusion and belonging. Her leadership has made history accessible and engaging for diverse audiences through exhibitions, public programs and the renowned Abbey Medieval Festival, which is now celebrating its 35th year.

Edith’s legacy extends far beyond the Museum’s collections and programs. It is reflected in the generations of people she has mentored, the communities she has connected through culture and heritage, and the enduring institution she has helped build.