After nine years, Claire Braund is stepping down as Chair of the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music, leaving a legacy that will resonate throughout the organisation for years to come.
In farewelling Claire, Central Coast Conservatorium of Music CEO, Dr Lisa Barnes, said Claire’s hard work and strategic vision were evident in every aspect of her leadership. “It has been a privilege to work alongside Claire during her tenure as Chair of the Central Coast Conservatorium. Claire’s unwavering dedication and tireless commitment have been truly inspiring and have left an indelible mark on our organisation.
A Legacy of Transformation
“From the outset, Claire worked closely with me as CEO to guide the Conservatorium through a period of significant change and growth, particularly as we returned to our beautifully renovated building at the start of 2023 – a milestone that would not have been possible without Claire’s instrumental role in securing vital Create NSW government grants.
“She has played a pivotal role in our transition from an Incorporated Association to a Company Limited by Guarantee, ensuring the process was smooth and successful. Her efforts were also central to the restructuring of our administration team and the upgrade of our accounting systems to Xero, both of which have strengthened our operations for the future.”
Incoming Chair, Rob Kitchen thanks Claire for her extraordinary service, leadership, and unwavering dedication.
“Claire’s passion for the Conservatorium’s future has set a standard of excellence and commitment that will continue to inspire us all. While she steps down from her official role, I am confident that her influence and involvement will remain a valued part of our community for years to come. On behalf of the entire Central Coast Conservatorium family, I extend my deepest gratitude to Claire for everything you have done—and continue to do—for our Conservatorium.
Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Milestones
Reflecting on her tenure, Claire said: “It has been a privilege to work alongside such a passionate and talented group of people. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I know the Conservatorium is in a strong position to continue its important work for the Central Coast community.”
Claire commented that much had changed at the Conservatorium since she joined the Board nine years ago. “When I joined the Con board in 2016 we met in one of the cold, depressing, furniture-filled demountables and while discussing the various reports, we often drank wine and ate pizza! Now the board meets in the newly renovated building or online, drinks water and maybe eats a snack during a scheduled break. How times have changed.”
She said in the nine years she has served on the Board, including three as Chair from 2022-2025, the Board, staff and students of the Conservatorium have been through a period of sustained change, including huge disruptions caused by COVID and a massive building renovation.
Securing Funding and Building for the Future
Claire said some of the things she is most proud of include securing the 45 Mann Street tenancy from Crown Lands, which allowed the Conservatorium to apply for crucial upgrade grants. “Soon after, I helped secure $2million in NSW Government funding, working with Adam Crouch and Premier Gladys Berejiklian, followed by further grants from Minister Don Harwin and Create NSW. These enabled us to transform Robert Knox Hall, renovate music rooms, add new facilities, and create a welcoming space for all.”
Claire also said much work had been done improving the Conservatorium website. “There has been a great improvement in our website and communication – critical in letting the community know what a wonderful organisation the Con is and that it’s right here in the heart of Gosford!
“This is a message that needs to be sung at every occasion by the board, staff and students. Access to music education is proven to foster early language development, increase ability to learn foreign languages and improve mood and emotional regulation, yet it appears to be slipping off the government education agenda. Our Conservatoriums are a critical plank in our children’s education and need to be far better resourced and funded.
“To this end, the board is going to have its work cut out to make fewer dollars stretch further in challenging financial times and focus strongly on fund raising to ‘fill the gap’ between what it costs to deliver a music lesson/performance and what we can charge. This requires the support of the entire Con Community.”
Looking Ahead and Giving Thanks
Claire thanked Con staff, teachers, students, volunteers and current and former board colleagues, includingformer President, Peter Brandon. “I would especially like to thank CEO Lisa Barnes who has worked tirelessly to reform and professionalise the Con and to new Chair, Rob Kitchen, for being a great colleague and good friend.
“Having finally managed to clean up and plant the garden with the support of a generous donor and some green thumbed volunteers, I plan to add myself to the volunteer roster for the Con and remain a true friend to a wonderful organisation.”
