“As many people know, I was inspired to get involved with the foundation in 2014 by my mother Clare who was a great friend of SAM and took much pleasure and pride in the work of the museum. Over the past few years, so much work has happened to make the new SAM a reality,” Mr Quinn said.
With demolition work on the former Shell site soon to commence, the excitement of the development stage of the project is increasing and the Foundation’s core purpose of fundraising even more critical to the project’s success.
“I am thrilled that someone of John’s standing in the arts and broader community is stepping up to Chair the Foundation. John has held a long-term aspiration for a new SAM, and will bring renewed energy and focus to the Foundation’s work in raising the private and philanthropic elements of the project financing,” said Mr Quinn.
The new Chair John Head has held many roles in the arts community in Shepparton including being a member of the Sam Project Board, recent Artistic Director of the Shepparton Festival, Convenor of the Shepparton shorts Short Film Festival, playwright, actor and member of the Shepparton Theatre Arts Board.
John acknowledged the great work that Peter had achieved in only four years since the inception of the SAM Foundation and said he is very keen to be involved in ongoing development of this important building. “I believe the new SAM will be a game changer as a major cultural and economic driver in this region. This project will put Shepparton on the national creative tourism map and improve the liveability and business prospects of the Goulburn Valley.”
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Kim O’Keeffe said she acknowledged the hard work of Peter Quinn as the Foundation Chair over the last four years and welcomed John to the role. “Peter has done an excellent job in raising the profile of the SAM Foundation and guiding their direction. I am looking forward to John taking up the helm and driving the philanthropic efforts of the Foundation as we are about to enter the next exciting phase for the new SAM,” said Cr O’Keeffe.
