NORTHWEST REP -
BARRY PURTON
Born in Ulverstone and raised at Forth, Barry’s early leadership qualities were evident when he was elected Boys Head Prefect at Devonport Secondary College. He commenced his working life in 1963 as an apprentice motor mechanic with Sullivan Motors before progressing to a seven year career as a tourist coach driver with Youngs Coaches, travelling extensively throughout Tasmania.
Barry’s professional journey has been diverse and distinguished. He worked as a milk tanker operator, a salesman within the bearing industry, and later as a Scania truck salesman. In 1991 he returned to Redline Coaches, where he served for 29 years as Training Officer, Compliance Manager, and ultimately Northwest Regional Manager. His expertise extended nationally, collecting and delivering coaches across Australia, and internationally through industry visits to China. Barry was also a qualified heavy transport testing officer for DIER and was widely respected for his skill in training and assessing drivers.
Barry has made significant contributions to community organisations. He served as President of the West Ulverstone Primary School Parents and Friends Association, umpired schoolboy football, and devoted many years to the Ulverstone Apex Club, where he held numerous portfolios including Club President (1981–82), Caravan Park Director, Treasurer, and Chairman of the Mardi Gras Committee—earning the affectionate title “Mr Mardi Gras.” In 1987, upon reaching Apex’s retirement age, Barry was awarded Life Membership in recognition of his outstanding service.
Since 1986 Barry has been a valued member of the Roland View Trust Board, supporting aged care initiatives in the Ulverstone district, and served four years as Chairman of the Management Committee of Ganesway House, assisting elderly residents transitioning to supported accommodation. In 1999 he joined Leven Lodge and later became involved in additional Masonic orders, retiring from lodge activities in 2019.
Barry joined the Ulverstone Men’s Shed in 2019, where his broad experience and strong organisational skills led to his appointment as SecretaryTreasurer, a role he continues to fulfil with commitment and integrity.
He currently drives a small bus to take members of the elderly citizens homes out for drives when time is available.
Across every chapter of his life, Barry has demonstrated leadership, reliability, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to community service. His contributions have enriched countless organisations and individuals, and his legacy stands as a testament to a life lived in service to others.