Debbie set to preserve our precious past

DEBBIE Bailey has some big shoes to fill as she steps into the role of Cobb & Co Museum director.

But they are shoes she is confident of filling.

Ms Bailey was appointed director following the retirement of Dr Deborah Tranter from the position after 25 years.

She said she came from a different background than Dr Tranter, who had a background in science and curation.

She will instead push the museum into the future relying on her background in regional development and formal qualifications in marketing and management.

"This is a time when we can really start to grow," Ms Bailey said.

"I'm honoured to be appointed the director of Cobb & Co Museum and am committed to achieve our vision of safeguarding heritage trades and creating a cultural environment where we can all share our community stories and experiences that inspire and shape a positive future."

Ms Bailey said the transition into her new role was made easier by her previous posting as deputy director.

She carried out the role while Dr Tranter was working for the Queensland Museum in Brisbane towards the end of last year.

Working closely with Dr Tranter had put Ms Bailey in good stead to oversee the extensive range of events already planned for the museum in 2013.

"What I'm looking forward to most is showcasing some out-of-the-box ideas," she said.

"The museum has become a big part of the Toowoomba community and it's important to keep the traditional ideals behind the museum but making sure we keep it as a community hub as well."

Dr Tranter said she was extremely pleased to see the appointment of Ms Bailey in the role.

Cobb & Co Museum director, Debbie Bailey

•  Commenced role as director on January 1, 2013.
•  Background in regional development
•  Formal qualifications in marketing and management
•  Previous roles include executive officer southern Queensland area consultative committee and business planning and project work through GRM International
•  Has been involved with Cobb & Co Museum through the development and opening of the museum's expansion in 2010 as visitor experience and operations manager
•  Has more recently been working as the deputy director of the museum