Honouring Jack Ayerbe and his living legacy of leadership and giving
By Zoe Waters, Executive Director, Barwon Health Foundation
When I think about legacies, I don’t just think about what’s left behind when someone is gone. To me, a legacy is about the impact someone makes every day, their imprint on the world around them. It may be through the time they give or the care they show. And when I think about that, I can’t help but think of Geelong’s own John “Jack” Ayerbe.
Jack has been such a big part of the Barwon Health Foundation story. For decades, he’s been the kind of leader who rolls up his sleeves, gives his time generously, and inspires others to do the same. When he was Chair of our Barwon Health Foundation Council, he guided us through some of our most important years. He helped us to grow, focus our direction, and make sure we showed up for our community to support public healthcare in our region.
But Jack didn’t stop there. These days, he’s leading our Bequest Society, encouraging people to think about leaving a gift in their will. Thanks to his vision and persistence, more and more people are choosing to leave legacies that will keep Barwon Health strong for generations to come.
Jack’s also been part of a special group of gentlemen who, together, have raised over $100,000 for research scholarships. That kind of generosity has opened doors for young researchers and clinicians who are pushing healthcare forward right here in our region.
What I admire most, though, is how Jack leads by example. He doesn’t just talk about making a difference, he absolutely lives it. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, rallying people around a cause, caring for the animals of Geelong or quietly encouraging others, Jack has a way of bringing people together. Even his family has caught the spark, with younger generations following in his footsteps.
Ladt year, Jack received the Medal of the Order of Australia - a huge honour and so well deserved. But if you ask me, Jack’s real legacy is the healthier, stronger community he’s helped to build.
I feel very lucky to work alongside someone like Jack. His story reminds me that leadership isn’t about titles or accolades, it’s about service, generosity, and the difference you make in the lives of others. And our community is so much better because of him.
