It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the sudden passing of Dr Barry Inglis AO on Friday, July 4.
Dr Inglis was a giant in Australia’s scientific and technical community and a key figure in shaping our national quality infrastructure. At NATA, we were privileged to have Barry serve in numerous capacities over four decades – as a long-standing Technical Assessor, committee member, Board Director, and most notably, as Chair of the NATA Board from 2003 to 2011.
Barry’s commitment to NATA and the Australian accreditation system was extraordinary. He brought deep technical expertise, calm leadership and a genuine belief in the power of rigorous, reliable testing and measurement to support the national interest. His contributions shaped how NATA operates, how we assess competence, and how we collaborate with government, industry and international partners.
Beyond NATA, Barry’s legacy extended to the very foundations of Australia’s scientific capability. He was the founding CEO and Chief Metrologist of the National Measurement Institute (NMI), leading its formation in 2004 and guiding its growth as Australia’s peak measurement authority. His work at NMI elevated Australia’s standing globally in metrology and science-based policy.
Internationally, Barry served with distinction as President of the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM) – the first Australian, and only the second non-European, to hold the role.
He was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2021 for his distinguished service to science and engineering, and leaves behind a legacy of integrity, intellect and national impact.
Barry was not only a colleague and mentor but also a friend to many at NATA. His passing is a profound loss, and our thoughts are with his wife Kay, children Gavin and Joanne, his wider family, friends, and the broader scientific community who had the privilege of working alongside him.
We honour Barry’s service and his enduring contribution to ensuring that Australia’s products, systems and services are underpinned by trust, accuracy and confidence.
A memorial service will be held in Sydney on 15 July to celebrate his life and contributions.