Barry’s initial work experience revolved around accounting. (He is a Fellow of the Institute of Public Accountants). He was an internal auditor for several years for one of NSW’s largest organisations. An opportunity to run his own business brought him to Tamworth and his franchise business became one of the largest of its type in the Northwest of New South Wales. Following Other successful business ventures, Barry became the Chief Executive Officer, initially of The Challenge Foundation and later Challenge Community Services.

Challenge was initially a Tamworth-based organisation with 60 staff and a turnover of $700,000 per annum. Over the next 28 years, Challenge grew to become one of the largest country-based disability and children services in NSW, even extending its services to Southern Queensland. At the time of his retirement, Challenge had grown to a turnover of $100 million per year and a staff of 1000, Providing a range of services to people with disabilities and young people in foster care. During this time, Barry established himself in Tamworth in several community groups, including Apex (Where he became a life member) and Rotary, (In which he still serves today). Barry also had a stint in the last Tamworth City Council and served four years as the Deputy Mayor.

Following his retirement, Barry found he missed working in the disability industry. He was excited when Chris Buckman approached him with an offer of employment. His current role at DCS Is the Accountant, IR advisor, and Special projects as well as being a member of the current management team. Although DCS is a “for profit” business, Barry believes that the focus of the business has always been quality service provision to their clients and a commitment to happy and well-trained staff. For these reasons, he remains passionate about his commitment to the organisation. Assistant.