Vale Terry Owen

Fremantle Press extends its deepest sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Teresa (Terry) Owen, the founding manager of Fremantle Press, who died in Perth last week.

In 1975 she was commissioned by the then director of the Fremantle Arts Centre, Ian Templeman, to conduct a feasibility study into the establishment of a publishing program within the Fremantle Arts Centre. She produced a detailed study that led to the establishment of Fremantle Press. In 1976 she was appointed manager, a position she held until the end of 1978.

As remembered by former sales manager Clive Newman: ‘During her tenure the Press published debut titles by Elizabeth Jolley and Nicholas Hasluck, together with bestselling volumes by TAG Hungerford and Peter Cowan, among others.’

In later years Terry was a prominent member of the Perth arts community and worked with national and state arts bodies. She was a reviewer of performing arts for the Australian, worked for the WA Opera in marketing and sat on numerous arts boards including the now legendary Chrissie Parrott Dance Company.

Fremantle Press Chair Ian Lilburne described her as: ‘A highly intelligent and cultured woman, passionate about the arts, yet softly spoken, who had a significant impact on the Perth arts scene over many years, and was often seen at opening nights.’

In later years she also took on the role of mentor, advising younger artists on their careers, artistic endeavours and professional activities.

The Perth arts community is stronger for her patronage and support. She will be missed.