The CFC CEO, Gordon Ramsay expressed his deep sadness at the passing of John Hindmarsh AM on the weekend.
John was Chair of the CFC Board for 6 years – from 2012-2017, and was a passionate and energetic leader. He had a clear and abiding passion for the place of arts and culture in the lives of the city and the community.
John’s vision for the future of our city’s arts and cultural facilities was an ambitious vision and I had the privilege of working with John in a range of ways over many years.
His vision and energy were instrumental in the early thinking about the expansion of the Canberra Theatre Centre, alongside his beloved Playhouse.
He was determined to see the CBD brought alive through a stronger engagement with arts and culture, and he saw the place of a re-vitalised Civic Square as part of that.
John has consistently given back to the Canberra community and this has been recognised in his being awarded a Member in the Order of Australia. The extent of his community engagement can be seen in his involvement with Hands across Canberra and Boundless Playground Charities; his role as Chairman of the National Gallery of Australia Foundation, and member of the Gallery’s Governing Council, and his position as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Canberra.
His philanthropic generosity made the establishment of the CMAG on the Square gallery possible – it is an opportunity for artists and makers from the Canberra region who are not currently engaged in formal study to create site-specific installations. CMAG on the Square sits opposite the ACT legislative Assembly and is accessible for viewing 24 hours a day by diverse audiences.
John and his wife Rosanna were generous donors to the CFC. Indeed he is one of the most significant donors in the organisation’s history.
He was also generous in his time and his insight and, up until very recently, has been keenly involved in events at the Canberra Theatre and CMAG. He will be very sorely missed, but has left a remarkable legacy for all Canberrans.
Our condolence and concern goes to Rosanna and the family at this sad time.