Vale Ray Barry OAM – RWTA Life Member

The RWTA is saddened to acknowledge the passing of Ray Barry OAM, a highly respected South Australian Life Member of the Association and a man whose contribution extended well beyond the cold-storage industry.

Ray began his working life as an apprentice fitter and turner before building a successful career with Coca-Cola and later becoming a significant figure within South Australia’s refrigerated cold-storage industry. He went on to serve as General Manager of the Swire Group and was closely involved in an important period of change for South Australia’s food distribution sector, including chairing a special committee reviewing the relocation of Adelaide’s historic East End Markets from the city to Pooraka.

Ray’s contribution to the industry was recognised through Life Membership of the RWTA, an honour reserved for those who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and service to the Association and the Australian cold chain.

His contribution, however, reached much further. Ray devoted more than six decades to Lions, having joined the then Woodville Lions Club as a young businessman in 1964. He served as President, became a Melvin Jones Fellow – Lions International’s highest form of recognition – and remained deeply committed to community service throughout his life.

In 2015, Ray was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), recognising his extensive service to the community through Lions and his contribution to the cold-storage industry.

Ray belonged to a generation of industry leaders who helped establish and develop the cold-storage sector we know today. His Life Membership ensures his contribution remains part of the history of the RWTA, and we acknowledge with gratitude his many years of service to both our industry and his community.

The RWTA extends its sincere condolences to Ray’s family, friends and colleagues.