Stephen Large AM

For more than two decades, Stephen Large AM dedicated his professional life to preserving the history of Port Arthur.

Serving as the chief executive officer of the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority (PAHSMA), Mr Large’s work had a significant impact both in regard to conservation and tourism. He also handled the sensitivities of several anniversaries of the tragic modern history of the site – providing an ongoing focal point to mourn and remember the victims of the senseless violence of the 1996 shootings.

He has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to historical site preservation, and to the community of the Tasman Peninsula. 

“I felt very chuffed and surprised to be recognised in the Order of Australia. It is a wonderful honour to be nominated and that the contribution of so many people associated with the Port Arthur Historic Sites are also appropriately recognised,” Mr Large says.

Highlights of his tenure include Australian Convict Sites receiving World Heritage Listing in 2010, opening the 1996 Port Arthur Memorial Garden, a number of Tourism Australia awards (including four times being the best in Australia) and working closely with the local community on the Tasman Peninsula.

“The team of people I had the privilege working with realised both the significant conservation and tourism opportunities of Port Arthur. Being recognised both nationally and internationally motivated us, as a team, to do well in growing the heritage and tourism experience, without compromising the conservation values of our Sites,” Mr Large says.

Like so many recipients in the Order, Mr Large is quick to share credit and highlight the efforts of others, thanking “many people, such as three brilliant PAHSMA Chairs, great Board Members, a highly committed Executive team and a diverse workforce that contributed so much in the 21 years I was in the CEO position.”