On 1 September 2025, Distinguished Professor Mark Finnane retired from his role as Director of the Harry Gentle Resource Centre (HGRC).

Professor Finnane has significantly expanded the Centre’s scope since assuming the directorship from Dr Regina Ganter in 2018, leading the development of new digital initiatives, exciting collaborations with the Queensland State Archives, and commercial research projects.

Among Professor Finnane’s most significant contributions is his leadership of the online Harry Gentle Resource Centre Dictionary of Biography, which draws upon a broad range of archival and printed materials as well as contributions from the public. It has become an invaluable tool for genealogists, historians, and researchers alike.

The Centre now enters a new chapter under the leadership of Dr Yorick Smaal (former Deputy Director) as Director and Dr Amy Way as Deputy Director. Together with the HGRC research team, they will continue to build on Professor Finnane’s legacy through ongoing innovation and development.

We extend our sincere thanks to Mark for his exceptional leadership, mentorship, and friendship over the years. We wish him a joyful and rewarding retirement, filled with well-deserved relaxation and new adventures.