Queensland Museum welcomes new Chair and Board Members

8 June 2026

The Queensland Museum is pleased to announce the appointment of The Honourable Dr Brett Mason as Chair.

Dr Mason succeeds Professor Margaret Sheil AO, who served as Chair for seven years, providing exceptional leadership and guiding Queensland Museum through a period of significant growth and achievement.

Dr Mason brings extensive experience in governance, academia, and public service, including his previous role as Chair of the National Library of Australia Council and his current position as Adjunct Professor at QUT’s School of Justice.

Queensland Museum extends its sincere thanks to outgoing Board members, Ms Catherine Taylor, Ms Jenny Parker, and Dr Harry Van Issum for their outstanding contributions and dedicated service.

Queensland Museum CEO Renai Grace acknowledged the outgoing members and welcomed the new appointees.

“Under Professor Margaret Sheil AO’s leadership, Queensland Museum has strengthened its position as a leading cultural and scientific institution,” Ms Grace said.

“We also acknowledge the lasting contribution of Ms Catherine Taylor, Ms Jenny Parker and Dr Harry Van Issum, whose stewardship has helped shape the organisation.”

“Our incoming Chair Dr Mason and new Board members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience across governance, research, business, and community leadership. Together, they will help guide Queensland Museum’s continued growth and impact across science, culture, education, and community engagement.”

Chairperson Dr Brett Mason said he was honoured to take on the role.

“It is a privilege to serve as Chair of Queensland Museum and to contribute to an institution with such an important role in our state,” Dr Mason said.

“As Queensland prepares for Brisbane 2032, Queensland Museum has a unique opportunity to showcase our science, culture and stories on a global stage.

“I look forward to working with the Board, CEO and the broader Queensland Museum team to shape the next chapter.”

Dr Mason will be joined by six new Board members:

Mr Jonathan Shaw – Executive leader with experience in public sector consulting and the Brisbane 2032 Legacy Project.
Miss Catherine Webber – Cultural leader with expertise in media management.
Mrs Martine Whitton – Business and community engagement professional with a focus on philanthropy and partnerships.
Professor Paul Scuffham – Leading health economist with extensive research and policy experience.
Mr James Goodman – Financial adviser and advocate for Queensland’s cultural heritage and philanthropy.
Mrs Lorraine Hatton OAM – Proud Quandamooka Elder with deep cultural knowledge and community leadership experience.

Continuing Board members Ms Janine Griffiths, Adjunct Professor Iyla Davies OAM, Ms Valmay Hill and Dr Mark Robinson provide strong continuity and corporate knowledge.

Together, the refreshed Board combines established experience with new perspectives, positioning Queensland Museum to build on its momentum and expand its reach and impact.