Betty Churcher, known affectionately as ‘Betty Blockbuster’, is a recently retired Art Educator, Gallery Director and TV presenter of arts programmes. 

Born in Queensland, art has always been Betty’s private and public passion, and her vision was to make people see art as accessible and relevant. Betty has been a role model for women: the first female head of a tertiary institution, the first female director of a state art gallery and the first woman to be Director of the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra. Recently, Betty’s sight, the one faculty she values above all others, deteriorated to what she describes as, ”like having midnight sitting on your shoulder – a big, black presence”.  Betty became an Eye Foundation Ambassador in July 2007.

“ Throughout my life I have seen and experienced so many beautiful things, from my childhood and adult years, watching my own children grow, and of course viewing some of the best art in the world - all of which are fixed in my memory.  I have always valued my sight and the wonderful visions captured through my eyes.  For my sight to be partially taken away from me is unfathomable.  I support the work of The Eye Foundation enormously and remind everyone that their sight is truly a gift that should never be taken for granted.”  Betty Churcher, August 2007.