Jude Munro AO retires as Chair of Newcastle Airport after steering the airport through a landmark period of growth, investment and record passenger numbers. In recognition of her contribution to the region, Jude received a Key to the City of Newcastle reflecting the lasting legacy she leaves for the Hunter.
Deputy Chair, Samantha Martin-Williams, a Director since October 2019, succeeds Jude as Chair this month as the airport enters its next era.
Jude departs on a high, with the final quarter of 2025 delivering the airport’s highest ever passenger results. A total of 340,778 passengers travelled through the terminal in October, November and December, ending a successful year for the airport which included the completion of the expanded terminal and new direct flights to Bali, Singapore via Bali, Perth and Hobart.
Newcastle Airport CEO, Linc Horton said Jude’s leadership has left a lasting legacy for the region and he was proud to see that legacy recognised by the community and the City of Newcastle with a Key to the City being presented during a touching tribute at City Hall yesterday, 25th February.
“Jude has always kept her focus on what matters for the Hunter, building an airport and precinct that supports jobs, connectivity and long term economic strength and we are incredibly grateful for her contribution,” Linc said.
Samantha said the airport was strongly positioned for its next phase of growth.
“Jude’s leadership has laid a strong foundation for the future,” Samantha said.
“As Chair, my focus will be on sustaining that momentum and ensuring Newcastle Airport continues to drive connectivity, investment and long-term economic strength for the Hunter and the nation.”
Jude has served on more than 20 boards during her career, including as Chair of Queensland Urban Utilities, Chair of the Victorian Planning Authority and Chair of the Victorian Pride Centre. She is currently Chair of Uniting Vic Tas and a Director of Create Advisory.
Her contributions to public administration and planning have been widely recognised, including being awarded the keys to the City of Brisbane in 2010, appointment as a National Fellow of the Institute of Public Administration and a Life Fellowship of the Planning Institute of Australia.
As a long serving Director and Chair, Ms Munro oversaw the airport’s broader $250 million dollar precinct wide expansion program, helping future proof Newcastle Airport through diversified growth, stronger resilience and long term value for the region. The completed terminal alone is expected to deliver $12.7 billion dollars in economic benefit over the next 20 years, including $6.2 billion dollars into the visitor economy, $6.5 billion dollars in freight activity and more than 4,000 jobs.
Jude said she steps down from her role as Chair at Newcastle Airport with immense pride in the current Board and Leadership team whose core focus is first and foremost to be the airport the region deserves.
“We have positioned Newcastle Airport for long-term success and I step down with a sense of a job well done and knowing I leave the airport in good hands,” Jude said.
Newcastle Councillor Callum Pull jointly nominated Jufe for this civic honour alongside Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson. Jufe joins a select group of recipients recognised for their enduring impact on the city and its community.
IMAGE | Jude Munro AO retires as Chair of Newcastle Airport.
