In Loving Memory of Chris Simpson MRIM Life
On behalf of Anne Cornish, CEO – RIMPA Global.
A treasured member of the RIMPA family for more years than we records can tell, Chris leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in the records and information management profession.
Chris played an instrumental role in shaping the industry landscape, particularly through his leadership in establishing the Queensland Local Government Chapter in 1997. He served as Chapter Secretary and later as Vice President, making a lasting impact before transitioning from local government to the energy sector. But his passion for the Chapter never faded, in 2005, Chris submitted a proposal to merge the Local Government Chapter with Queensland's Government Owned Corporations (GOCs). The proposal was embraced, and in 2006, the Queensland Local Government and Corporations Chapter was born.
Chris was not only a leader but also a mentor and confidant. Affectionately known to Meryl Bourke and Nancy Taia as "his girls," he was deeply loved by those he guided and worked alongside. His warmth, humour, and unwavering support left a mark on countless records managers who had the privilege of knowing him.
Between 1998 and 2013, Chris generously gave his time to the Queensland Branch Council, serving in numerous roles and continuing to shape the profession at the state level. His decades of dedication were formally recognised in 2011 with Life Membership (MRIM Life), and in 2016, the Chapter honoured his incredible contributions by naming the Queensland awards the Chris Simpson Awards - a lasting tribute to a man who gave so much.
Even in retirement, Chris remained deeply engaged with RIMPA as one of our inaugural OWLs (Our Wise Leaders), continuing to mentor, support, and inspire emerging professionals.
Chris embraced the simple things in life. He never sought the spotlight and always preferred to keep things down-to-earth. But he had a flair for fun, never shying away from a themed event and always bringing laughter with his spirited costume choices.
To those who knew and loved Chris, his funeral will be held at 10am on Thursday, 31st July in Bundaberg. A livestream will be available; please contact RIMPA at [email protected] for access. For those unable to attend, a local RIMPA Global memorial will be held in Brisbane in early August, with details to be shared shortly.
Chris was a man of integrity, kindness, and wisdom. He was one of a kind, irreplaceable, but never to be forgotten. May he rest peacefully, knowing that his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.
This is not just a farewell - it is a RECORD of a remarkable life.
Anne Cornish Life MRIM
RIMPA Global CEO