Barry awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

Huge congratulations to our Co-Chair Barry McGuire OAM on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) (2026) for service to the Indigenous community of Western Australia.

Barry’s impact spans cultural leadership, community advocacy, and creative excellence. As Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Spear Foundation (since 2013), and through his work with Redspear and Safespear, Barry consistently brings cultural integrity, wisdom, and practical action to the spaces where it matters most.

Barry is also a highly respected cultural leader in governance and industry, including Minderoo Foundation and cultural advisory and leadership roles with Chevron Australia, Woodside Energy and others—helping organisations strengthen cultural capability and walk forward with authenticity.

He’s an extraordinary artist and cultural consultant too, contributing to major cultural projects in WA including the Perth Festival as well as internationally, which are always grounded in story, Country, and community.

Barry, this honour is so well deserved. Thank you for the way you lead: with strength, humility, and a deep commitment to community.