It was with great sadness that Opera Scholars Australia heard the sad news of the passing of Ms Betty Amsden AO. Betty - as she liked to be addressed, not wishing to put herself above others, was a keen observer and passionate supporter of the Arts and, in particular, young talent. She was a staunch supporter of the Opera Scholars Australia program since its inception in 1998 and was a Board member of the Trust since 2009. Betty recognised that the program provided important performance experience and training opportunities for talented young opera singers and was very generous in her support throughout her time on the Board. As well as offering wise counselling, she provided a very valuable award each year to the Opera Scholar of the Year and never missed an opportunity to attend OSA concerts and events. This would have been Betty’s 19th Opera in the Market at which she annually presented her prize to the Scholar of the Year.

Betty will be missed as a true patron of the Arts. She will also be missed for her larger than life personality and directness. Once convinced about a program, project or cause, nothing would stop her. We will always remember her with fondness and deep gratitude.

Vale Betty.