Anthony Mackay AM retires as Chair of The Song Room; Matt Deeble appointed as incoming Chair
Anthony Mackay AM retires as Chair of The Song Room; Matt Deeble appointed as incoming Chair
The Song Room today announces the retirement of Anthony Mackay AM as Chair, marking the conclusion of a decade of distinguished leadership and national advocacy for arts education, young people, and Australia’s creative learning landscape. The Song Room is pleased to announce that Matt Deeble will step into the role of Chair.
Anthony Mackay has been a guiding force for The Song Room during a period of growth, innovation and national impact. His leadership has strengthened the organisation’s commitment to ensuring every young person, regardless of their postcode, has access to high-quality arts learning.
Anthony will conclude his tenure having elevated The Song Room’s national voice and deepened its commitment to equity, creativity, and opportunity for young people.
“I count myself extraordinarily fortunate to have had the privilege of my association with The Song Room. Such brilliant, purposeful and life enhancing work.” – Anthony Mackay AM
CEO Alice Gerlach said Anthony’s contribution to The Song Room has been transformative.
“Tony has been an inspiring mentor and a steady, visionary Chair for The Song Room. Curious, generous, and deeply committed to young people, he has provided thoughtful governance, strengthened our educational focus, and encouraged us to innovate with purpose. We are a stronger organisation because of his guidance. His influence will continue to shape our work for years to come.”
The Song Room is thrilled to welcome Matt Deeble as the new Chair.
Matt brings deep expertise in education, evidence, and innovation with a commitment to equity and impact. He is a respected leader across private, public and not-for-profit sectors, having served as a CEO, senior executive, consultant, non-executive director and lawyer. He combines strategic, operational and governance expertise with a passion for human potential and the arts.
His leadership experience spans the Future Evidence Foundation, Education Services Australia, Social Ventures Australia and Evidence for Learning. Matt’s strategic clarity will help guide The Song Room’s next chapter as we continue to expand our educational expertise and deliver meaningful outcomes for young people.
“It’s an honour to step into this role and build on the strong foundation Tony has provided. The Song Room has a unique and important mission: bringing creativity, confidence and opportunity to young people who need it most. I’m excited to support the organisation’s strategic direction as we deepen our impact for young people across Australia.” – Matt Deeble
Alice Gerlach welcomed Matt’s appointment.
“Matt brings a rare combination of strategic clarity, systems thinking, deep commitment to young people and a love of the arts. His leadership will help guide The Song Room into its next chapter. I look forward to working closely with him, the Board and the broader team to bring The Song Room’s vision to fruition.”
