Upper Lachlan Shire Council has paid tribute to the late Malcolm Barlow OAM, a respected former Councillor, educator, environmental advocate and community contributor whose impact was felt across the Upper Lachlan Shire for many years.
Mr Barlow was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for service to local government, the environment, and to education.
His commitment to local government included eight years as a Councillor of Upper Lachlan Shire Council from 2008 to 2016. He continued to contribute to Council following his elected service, serving as Chair of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee until 2021. Council records confirm his significant involvement in that committee, including his role as Chair.
Before the creation of Upper Lachlan Shire, Mr Barlow was also part of the broader Crookwell Shire Council, with his connection to the district spanning many years. He was elected to the Upper Lachlan Shire Council in 2008, following the amalgamation of Crookwell Shire, Gunning Shire and parts of Mulwaree in 2004.
Mr Barlow was also a passionate advocate for the local environment, contributing through Kiama Creek Landcare Group and organisations throughout the Upper Lachlan Shire including Crookwell RSL Branch service for decades. He was also instrumental in the Kiamma Creek beautification, footbridge and footpath project.
Council appointed him as the representative on joint regional planning panel regarding state significant project assessments. His contribution to education extended over decades, earning numerous accolades for his work as a teacher.
Mayor, Paul Culhane said Mr Barlow’s contribution represented the very best of community service.
“Malcolm Barlow was a passionate and extremely diligent Councillor who always had the shire’s best interests at heart,” he said.
“He and Barry Murphy were instrumental in the Kiamma Creek project beautification works we all enjoy today. While we did not always agree, I admired his passion for improving our Shire.
“Mr Barlow’s OAM was a fitting recognition of a lifetime of service, but Malcolm was never someone who sought recognition. His service reflected the important role played by volunteers, councillors, educators, environmental advocates and community leaders in rural and regional communities.
“His life demonstrated that meaningful community leadership does not end when an elected term concludes. His continued involvement with Council, Landcare, education and the broader Upper Lachlan community was a testament to his enduring commitment to the district.
“On behalf of Council, our deepest condolences to Malcolm’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. His legacy will remain part of the story of the Shire and the contributions he made.
“Upper Lachlan Shire Council extends its sincere condolences to the Barlow family and his late wife Barbara and joins the community in remembering Malcolm Barlow OAM and his considerable contribution to the Upper Lachlan Shire,” the Mayor said.
