The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) pays tribute to the outstanding leadership and environmental work of former Authority Chair the Hon. Virginia Chadwick AO who passed away on Friday 18 September.

Virginia was the first female chairman of the marine management agency and during her eight years at the helm, developed and led many significant environmental initiatives.

GBRMPA Chairman Russell Reichelt said Virginia was an inspiration to all those who knew her and would be remembered for her significant contribution to protecting one of the world's greatest natural treasures.

"Virginia was passionate about protecting the Great Barrier Reef for the future and was at the forefront of many marine management decisions that won acclaim worldwide," he said.

"Her contribution to the protection of the Reef through the zoning plan is an important and lasting legacy that will help protect this great natural icon for all Australians.

"Virginia was a well-respected leader, mentor and friend and her genuine passion for the environment was an inspiration for all those who knew her.

"Her passion, interest and involvement in environmental issues won the respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike, and she will be missed by all those who worked with her."

Among Virginia's most significant achievements at the GBRMPA was overseeing and leading the Representative Areas Program, which culminated in the rezoning of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in 2004.

The Representative Areas Program included the most extensive community consultation process ever conducted on an Australian environmental issue.

It set an international benchmark in marine conservation and generated international awareness of Australia’s environmental conservation initiatives.

Virginia’s role in overseeing the agency’s involvement in other management initiatives – such as the Trawl and Reef Line Fisheries Management Plan, Reef Water Quality Protection Plan and Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements – is also noteworthy.

Her genuine interest in environmental issues saw her actively involved across the agency’s core business – she was a keen supporter of everything from school education programs and tourism industry partnerships to conservation and research.

Before her appointment as Chairman of GBRMPA, Virginia served in the NSW Legislative Council.

She held various Ministerial positions and was the first woman elected as President of the Legislative Council.

Her significant contributions in the field of research and education were formally recognised by her peers on many occasions.

Among the accolades was being awarded an Office in the General Division of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday 2005 Honours List.

In 2009, Virginia received an Honorary Doctorate at James Cook University in recognition of her significant achievements.