NorthSite Contemporary Arts is entering a significant new chapter, marked by a transition in both governance and leadership as the organisation builds on its strong foundations and looks to the future.
After many years of dedicated service, Chair Michael Cosgrove and Secretary David Marsden will step down from their roles on the Board, marking the conclusion of a long period of stewardship and growth for the organisation and in line with the tenure requirements of NorthSite’s Constitution.
“It’s been a real privilege to serve as Chair of NorthSite over this period,” Michael said. “I’m incredibly proud of what’s been achieved—with artists, with community, and as an organisation.”
David’s long-standing contribution as Secretary has brought a strong foundation to the organisation’s governance and operations.
Michael will continue his involvement with NorthSite as a member of the Development Sub-Committee, ensuring continuity and ongoing support.
At this natural point of transition for NorthSite, Ashleigh Campbell has stepped down as CEO after more than eight years in the role to pursue new professional opportunities at a natural point of transition for the organisation.
Ashleigh’s tenure has been defined by strong, collaborative and strategic leadership during a period of considerable challenge and change.
Her consistent advocacy across the sector coupled with her calm, thoughtful and positive attitude has created an environment in which the organisation has flourished despite the manifold challenges of Covid, economic pressures and a shifting cultural landscape.
Under her leadership, NorthSite has grown into a leading regional contemporary arts organisation, with a program that is both locally grounded and internationally engaged—particularly across the Asia-Pacific and Oceania regions.
Her achievements over the years include steering the organisation through its pivotal transition from Kick Arts to NorthSite Contemporary Arts in 2018, establishing NorthSite Print Studio at Greenslopes Street, bringing long term financial security to the organisation through a four year funding agreement with Creative Australia and of course the many programming initiatives that saw our local artists celebrated through innovative exhibitions, touring shows, events, workshops and international collaborative exchanges.
Working closely with the Board, Ashleigh has helped build one of the most financially stable and resilient arts organisations in the country, while maintaining a clear focus on artist-led and First Nations-centred practice. Her professionalism, leadership acumen, and commitment to the sector are widely recognised by peers, funding bodies, and partners.
“During my eventful time at NorthSite,” Ashleigh said, “I’ve had the chance to work with an extraordinary team and community, and I’m really proud of what we’ve built together.
I want to thank the Board for their support throughout that time, and especially Michael and David for their leadership. I’m excited to see NorthSite continue to grow and evolve in this next chapter.”
The Board extends its sincere thanks to Ashleigh, Michael, and David for the care, commitment, and leadership they have brought to the organisation over many years.
Looking ahead, NorthSite remains in a strong position, supported by a committed team, a dedicated Board, and a clear strategic direction.
New Chair Finian McGrath and Secretary Rose Rigley will lead the next phase of governance, bringing their significant professional skills to the organisation.
They will be joined by Interim CEO Adam Boyd, a highly respected arts leader with more than 40 years’ experience across the contemporary and Indigenous arts sectors. Adam’s career spans artist-run initiatives through to senior leadership roles in major organisations, underpinned by a deep commitment to artists and the role of creativity in shaping strong communities.
“I’m really looking forward to building on the strong foundations already in place at NorthSite,” Adam said. “There’s a great opportunity to keep growing its role across the North and into the broader Asia-Pacific region—supporting artists and strengthening partnerships along the way.”
With its new leadership structure in place, NorthSite looks to the future with confidence – continuing to support artists in our region and beyond, foster meaningful connections between communities, and deliver ambitious and impactful contemporary arts programming in Far North Queensland.