Ainsley McArthur – Capricornia Branch Life Member - 2025
Ainsley McArthur has a long and proud association with ICPA, with her connection beginning as a child when she attended her first Federal Conference in Townsville in 1984 with her mother, Judy Camm, herself a dedicated ICPA advocate. Ainsley became a member of the Capricornia Branch, formerly Capricornia Branch of the Air, in 2001 and has remained an active and passionate advocate for equitable education for rural and remote children ever since.
Over more than two decades of service, Ainsley became the Branch’s longest-serving President, holding the position for a total of nine years across two separate periods. She guided the Branch through numerous motions and represented its members at many State and Federal Conferences, including Charters Towers, Winton, Goondiwindi, St George, Brisbane, Darwin, Launceston, Blackall, Alpha and Cunnamulla. Despite the demands of family and life at “Mystery Park”, Ainsley consistently made time to represent the Branch and ensure the voices of rural and remote families were heard.
Ainsley has also played an important role in the Branch’s fundraising and conference activities. In 2014, she was instrumental in organising a successful garden day at "Mystery Park" with landscape architect Clint Kenny, bringing Branch members and the local community together. She also served as Treasurer for the 2011 ICPA Queensland State Conference, co-hosted by the Branch, while pregnant with her youngest child.
Throughout her years with ICPA, Ainsley has been recognised for her integrity, leadership and commitment to ensuring the Branch operates in the best interests of ICPA and its members. Her contribution continues the strong tradition of advocacy established by her mother, Judy Camm, while also encouraging the next generation of her own family to understand the importance of advocating for rural and remote education.
In recognition of her 24 years of dedicated service, nine years as Branch President, extensive representation at State and Federal level, and her enduring commitment to rural and remote families, Ainsley McArthur was awarded Life Membership of the Capricornia Branch of ICPA. Her Life Membership acknowledges an outstanding contribution to the Branch and a lifetime connection to the values and work of ICPA.
