27/05/2026
I am deeply saddened to share the news that Barbara Radcliffe passed away last weekend.
Many of you will know Barbara as one of Plant Empire’s studio artists at our previous location and a regular stallholder at our market, often sharing a stall with her best friend and cousin, Jane MacDonald from ceramics. Barbara worked with ceramics and pewter, but it’s her earrings made from vintage biscuit tins that are worn on ears all around Brisbane, under a business name was exactly as it says on the tin: .
I will always remember Barbara for her incredible kindness and generosity, her beautiful smile and sparkling eyes. Barbara was the type of person who didn’t need to ask if someone needed help – she just showed up wearing sensible shoes and a smile on her face and asked what needed to be done. Barbara was there during the pandemic, she was there when we closed the door at our previous location, and she was there all in between and after. Not even brain cancer in the end could dampen Barbara’s unwavering grace, practicality and good humour.
Barbara leaves behind her loving husband, John, and son, Will. The funeral will be held at 10:30am on Wednesday 3 June at Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens in Holland Park, and it is our great honour to be hosting the wake at Plant Empire afterwards to celebrate Barbara’s life. All welcome. The family have asked to please consider making a gift to cancer research in lieu of flowers.
