Tim Fairfax AC retiring
Today, FRRR announced that Sue Middleton will commence as Chair of the FRRR Board on 1 January 2026, following the retirement of Tim Fairfax AC.
A deeply respected and awarded regional leader, Ms Middleton joined the FRRR Board in 2018 and served as Deputy Chair in 2025. She becomes only the third person to hold the role since the organisation formed in 2000.
When announcing the changes, Mr Fairfax AC said that Ms Middleton’s deep roots in rural Australia, at both a community and corporate level, and her close working knowledge of FRRR will ensure a steady and insightful leadership as the organisation looks forward to its next chapter.
“I was honoured to take up the position of Chairman when The Rt Hon. Ian Sinclair AC stepped down in 2019, and equally honoured to play a part in its significant growth in the intervening years. Under Sue’s leadership, working alongside CEO Natalie Egleton, I’m confident FRRR will continue to make a vital contribution to rural and regional communities for generations to come.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank my fellow Directors, the dedicated FRRR team, partners and supporters, as well as the staff and volunteers from the thousands of not-for-profit organisations and community groups who work tirelessly to keep their communities strong and connected. While I’m stepping down from the Chairmanship, I remain an advocate and partner for your work and your communities.”
Ms Middleton said that she is privileged to take on the role, recognising the considerable achievements made under the direction of her forebears.
“I want to start by thanking Tim for his efforts as Chair of FRRR over the last five years. He was at the helm through some of the biggest challenges the organisation has faced, including responding to COVID and the Black Summer bushfires. He has always provided wise counsel and led by example. “It’s an honour to take the reins and build on the work of Ian, Tim and the past Directors. Remote and rural communities are the heart of Australia’s prosperity and on the frontline at a time of profound change. Rural Australians are resilient, resourceful and ambitious, and I am buoyed by this opportunity to take a leadership role in helping them gain access to the funding and resources they need to have more control over their own futures.”.
Ms Middleton also recognised that she takes the helm of the organisation at a critical time as it launches its new 2026-2028 strategy.
“For 25 years, FRRR has worked alongside communities to remove barriers and unlock opportunities. Under our new three-year strategy, we’re sharpening our focus to create lasting impact and ensure rural and remote Australia thrives for generations to come.
“We have bold ambitions that involve harnessing our knowledge and our networks to catalyse FRRR, so we can better support the next generation and shape a strong and sustainable remote and rural Australia. I very much look forward to working with Natalie and the team, and all FRRR’s partners and supporters as we enter this next chapter.
Learn more about Ms Middleton and FRRR’s Directors.