Winners - Past 10 years

Kerry Betros AM
2023 UniSQ Alumnus of the Year and 2023 UniSQ Outstanding Alumnus in Business & Enterprise
Bachelor of Business 1971

Kerry Betros AM has been a leader in the business and banking community for almost 50 years. He served as the Chairman of the Heritage Bank Board from 2012 until the merger with People's Choice in March 2023 and played a crucial role in steering the organisation’s success. Prior to his role as chairman, Kerry served as a director on the board for three decades. Kerry was selected as the inaugural chairman of Heritage’s finance committee, as well as chairman of the audit committee. Kerry also holds the position of Managing Director for Betros Bros Holdings Pty Ltd and associated companies. Established in 1938, Betros Bros is a Darling Downs-based wholesaler and retailer well known in the community for supporting and employing locals. He has made many valued contributions to the community and his service has been recognised on many occasions. He was honoured with the Centenary of Federation Medal for distinguished contributions. In 2021, he was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). Kerry is also a Fellow of CPA Australia. He was a previous Director of St Vincent’s Hospital (Toowoomba) and is still involved in this organisation.

Judith Hickson
2023 UniSQ Outstanding Alumnus in Creative Industries & Humanities
Bachelor of Arts (International Relations & Anthropology) 2010

Judith Hickson’s passionate belief in each person’s unique history shines through her work as an anthropologist and curator. She is currently a member of the Australian Museum & Galleries Association and Australian Migrant History Network and serves as Review Editor on the Editorial Board of the Australian Historical Studies Journal. She has previously worked at the National Museum of Australia. Judith has also served as a member of the Australian Museums & Galleries Association and the Australian Migrant History Network. Judith has generously contributed to the communities in which she has lived over many decades, most recently volunteering in a leadership role for Rosie’s Friends on the Street. She has also given many presentations over her career and is regularly involved with UniSQ as a speaker and advisor.

Alan Jones
2023 UniSQ Outstanding Alumnus in Education
Bachelor of Arts (English Literature) 1996; Graduate Diploma of Professional Communications (Public Relations) 2002; and Master of Communications (Public Relations) 2004

Alan Jones is widely recognised as a respected educational leader who has made substantial contributions to the field of education in Queensland. After graduating from UniSQ, he began his career in the classroom before progressing through roles including Head of Department (English), Deputy Principal, and Principal. He now serves as Regional Director for Darling Downs South West in addition to advocacy roles such as Torres Strait Islander Ambassador, recruiting teachers to some of the most remote classrooms in the state. Throughout his distinguished career, Alan’s exceptional leadership qualities have enabled him to bring about positive change and cultivate a culture of excellence in education. He has exhibited a profound understanding of the intricate dynamics of educational administration.

Floyd Leedie
2023 UniSQ Outstanding Alumnus in Health & Wellbeing
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) 1999

Floyd Leedie, Chief Executive Officer of Goondir Health Services, is passionate about making a positive difference to Indigenous peoples and communities and has made it his life’s work, especially the Luma LUma Nation in Far North Queensland Coastal Region, Kullillee Nation in the Far South West Queensland Region and the Wakka Wakka Nation in the South Burnett/Central Burnett Region. He has made significant contributions to the health and wellbeing of communities across Darling Downs, South Burnett and Southwest Queensland. Floyd has been recognised nationally as a recipient of the AGPAL Aboriginal Medical Service of the Year Award (2013-2014), Quality Improvement awards from the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (2013), and several business excellence awards. Floyd is an innovator who has played a critical role in providing important Indigenous knowledge and cultural insight. His work utilises the integration of research and practice to improve Indigenous health outcomes and healthcare delivery through a collaborative approach with various research teams and stakeholders, including UniSQ, CSIRO and the Menzies School of Health Sciences.

Jane O’Donnell
2023 UniSQ Highly Commended Alumnus in Health and Wellbeing
Bachelor of Nursing 2003

Jane O’Donnell has dedicated her nursing career to caring for rural and remote communities – providing exemplary, community-centred care in remote locations across four states over two decades. She spent four years as the sole emergency responder in a 200km radius in central Queensland, where she founded a preventative health clinic teaching local children about health. Jane later oversaw 85 staff in a leadership position at Western Australia’s second-largest regional hospital.  She has since returned to her hometown of Dalby and now serves as Director of Nursing and Midwifery. In this role, Jane has led a culture of transparency, accountability, and consistency. Jane also actively champions for UniSQ students and graduates as they prepare for their own health careers. Jane continues to be committed to the community, including leading the establishment of a Community Advisory Group and as lead member of the District and Disaster Management Group.

Christopher Trace
2023 UniSQ Outstanding Alumnus in Law & Justice
Bachelor of Laws 2016

Christopher opened his legal practice in 2019 consisting of Heritage Conveyancing, Heritage City Legal and Heritage Family Law to serve the Ipswich and Springfield communities. He is passionate about giving back to the community and he and his firm routinely provide pro-bono services.  His firm regularly employs current UniSQ students and alumni as he appreciates the quality of the UniSQ experience.Christopher has held positions within Neighbourhood Watch as Assistant Treasurer for the Ipswich Region and Coordinator of Augustine Heights where he organised Halloween fundraising events.  He is currently a member of the James Cook University Business and Law School Alumni Advisory Board. He was the previous president of the Ipswich City Orchestra and guided the organisation through the process of incorporation and establishment as a registered charitable entity under ACNC.  Christopher is a pro-bono lawyer for Metro Arts in Brisbane and has provided assistance to the Domestic Violence Action Centre in Ipswich.  He is an ardent supporter of Drought Angels, which supports farming families, an active member of Rotary and advises the Ipswich Show Society Inc.

Prabal Barua
2023 UniSQ Alumni Award for Excellence in Research
Doctor of Philosophy (Business) 2020

Prabal Barua is the Academic Dean at the Australian International Institute of Higher Education. He has distinguished himself through professional, academic and community service. He is an entrepreneur who has established several successful companies that employ over 200 staff, including many UniSQ alumni. Prabal is also a highly successful entrepreneurial researcher who regularly partners with a wide range of UniSQ staff in research. Through his companies, he has been an essential industry partner for competitive research grants and has also directly awarded grants to UniSQ research teams and provided scholarships for UniSQ research students.He has built a strong research profile with over 100 publications. Prabal is also the CEO of Cogninet Australia, an Adjunct Professor at the University of Southern Queensland, University of New England, Talyor’s University-Malysia, a Visiting Professor at SRM University-India, an Industry Fellow of the University of Technology - Sydney, a member of the ICT Industry Advisory Board at UniSQ; and a member of the ICT Programs Leadership & Governance Committee at UniSQ.

Michael Armstrong
2023 UniSQ Alumni Community Service Award
Master of Arts (Creative Arts) 2021

Mike Armstrong is an award winning contemporary artist, author and veteran of the Australian Army for 23 years. He began his art studies at UniSQ while deployed in Iraq and now works in a variety of mediums from his art studio in Canberra. Mike is mentor to artists and works with art galleries, museums and events around Australia. Mike supports veteran health through art, movement and connection. He uses his art to explore his and other veteran experiences after service as they live with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He offers regular opportunities for people through his projects, Voices of Veterans and Rogue BJJ. Mike created Voices of Veterans in 2021 – an award winning art photography project that uses molasses as a metaphor for living with PTSD. Since then, Voices of Veterans has influenced countless veterans and their families to get help. It has created awareness of the veteran health crisis by exhibiting the artworks as exhibitions around Australia. Mike facilitates art workshops on everything from life drawing to classic oil painting and paint making. He has studied martial arts for most of his life and holds black belts in several arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). His organisation, Rogue BJJ is a revolutionary studio that supports the Canberra community with small group and individualised training to support growth, community and personal expression. He supports veterans and first responders connect to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a healing modality. Mikes’ contribution to community through art and movement is outstanding. He has successfully supported multiple Australians to reach out and take the necessary steps toward a better life after service.

Jake Clark
2023 UniSQ Young Alumnus of the Year
Doctor of Philosophy (Astronomy) 2022

Jake Clark completed his highly successful PhD studies at UniSQ in 2022 and has since dedicated a public service career to ensure underserved young people can better access science and research that reveals the wonders of space. After graduating in August 2022, he began working at the intersection of science communication, social science and data science to better tell the many stories and far-reaching impacts of science for Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre, Questacon.In May 2023, only 10 months into his employment, Jake won the government-wide award Australian Public Service Early Career Data Award, highlighting his innovative and resourceful solutions to real-world problems. During his time at Questacon, Jake has been spearheading an evaluation community of practice with Australia’s leading STEM providers, including CSIRO, Australian Space Discovery Centre, The Australian Academy of Science and SciTech.  The aim of this community of practice is to lift the evaluation conducted in STEM outreach across Australia to better articulate the impacts and outcomes of STEM engagement.

Keegan Peace
2023 UniSQ Highly Commended Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Education (Primary) 2019

Keegan is a successful and respected young educator who has made significant contributions to the Ipswich and Brisbane communities. In 2020, he was awarded the Independent Education Union's Beginning Educator Award, highlighting his early achievements in the field of education and advocacy. In 2022, he received the Algester Queensland Day Award after being nominated by a parent in his class. Keegan's commitment to energising his learners and engaging with the parent and school community has also earned him a spot as an excellence awardee in the 2023 Australian Education Awards. Beyond his work in the classroom, Keegan actively contributes to his school community by running a successful after-school history club. His work with Vietnam veteran outreach and education recently earned the club the Queensland Anzac Day award - the funds of which he is using to create a memorial project with Veteran's in the community. He also serves in varied roles through the Queensland Teacher's Union and actively volunteers his time for many groups. He has authored and released two books, "The Polka Dot Prince" and "Conrad Curlew Makes a Newspaper”.

Jennifer Waters
Outstanding Alumnus in Health and Wellbeing & Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Applied Science, 1996

Jennie Waters is a proud Aboriginal woman who has used her psychology degree from the University of Southern Queensland as a springboard to significantly improve health outcomes for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples across Southwest Queensland, while also inspiring many young people from her community to view education as a pathway to greater opportunity. After graduating from UniSQ in 1996 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Psychology Major), Jennie has worked for many years in the Indigenous healthcare sector in Southwest Queensland. Throughout her studies and in her working life, Jennie has been driven by the desire to give back to her community, and to help others to reach their potential. She has always been motivated to help improve the health and education of others, particularly those in the Indigenous community. This passion took on a new direction when in 2015 she took the bold step of founding her own business, IndigiCare Connect, which is a registered NDIS service provider delivering a broad range of disability support services to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples across Southwest Queensland. Jennie was a Ministerial appointment to the Queensland Rural Health Advisory Board from 2003-2006 and is a founding member of the Southwest Indigenous Corporation. She authored and delivered a training program entitled “Towards Cultural Safety in the Health Environment,” providing professional development for general practitioners in the region. She is currently working on projects, including the development of St George Harmony Centre, a cultural hub that will house Indigenous language, art, and culture.

Alanna Geary
Highly Commended Alumnus in Health and Wellbeing
Bachelor of Nursing, 1996

Alanna completed a Bachelor of Nursing in 1994 with the University of Southern Queensland and today is the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer at Metro North Hospital and Health Service in Brisbane. In this role, she also served as a Commander for the Health Service for the COVID-19 Response Unit. Named a Fellow of the Australian College of Nursing in August 2019, Alanna is a Board Member of both the RBWH Foundation and the Metro North Surgical Treatment & Rehabilitation Services Alliance Board. Alanna has been deservedly recognised for her dedication and service to the Queensland nursing profession over the years. In 2017 she was the winner of the Metro North Staff Excellence Award – Leadership Excellence and was named as an Honorary Member of the RBWH Foundation Royal Family (Sapphire) in 2016. In 2014 she won the Excellence in Leadership category at the Queensland Premiers Awards, and that same year was also awarded the RBWH Quality Award in Leadership & Management for the Cancer Nursing Professional Precinct.

Simon Playford
Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Laws, 2017; and Bachelor of Business, 2017

Simon was in the first cohort of students to graduate with a Bachelor of Law (with second class honours) and a Bachelor of Business from the School of Law and Justice in April 2017. Simon enrolled in law after completing his secondary school education from a rural school at Pittsworth and has gone on to become a pivotal ambassador of the school. Simon was an executive member of the USQ Law Society (2015 – 2016).  Once graduated, continued to engage with the school in activities cutting across learning and teaching, research and engaging, mentoring, and developing alumni. Simon has recently joined the National Heart Foundation of Australia in the position of Legal Counsel after five years of working in private law firms. He was excited by the opportunity to work for the Heart Foundation as they are a long-standing charity in Australia and after experiencing the loss of his father at a young age because of heart disease. On top of his high-profile profession, Simon remains committed to his volunteering and community roles. He is currently the Independent Chair for the Toowoomba Headspace Consortium and was newly elected by his Queensland peers to the inaugural Queensland Law Society Future Leaders Committee out of around 70 candidates. Simon is currently the Deputy President of the Future Leaders Committee and is also the Queensland Law Society’s representative on the Law Council of Australia’s Young Lawyers Committee.

Jake Stormoen
Highly Commended Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Creative Arts, 2011

2011 Bachelor of Creative Arts (Creative Media) alumnus Jake Stormoen is an actor, writer, and producer with more than 30 credits to his name, including playing Captain Garret Spears in the TV series The Outpost, and taking out the Best Supporting Actor award at the 2015 Utah Film Festival for his role as Airk in The Christmas Dragon. Jake co-wrote and produced the television movie Love, Lost & Found, and has had many voice-over roles in television, films, and video games. In 2022 he founded the company Unearthed Emporium following the success of his first company Storm Forged Dice! In 2019, providing specialised gaming dice for role players worldwide. From 2019 – 2021, Jake gave multiple presentations to students at various levels of education to assist them in trying to pursue a career in acting and has participated in a variety of alumni engagement activities with UniSQ. He also volunteered as a guest speaker to the 2021 UniSQ film cohort. Jake is no stranger to volunteering – he’s offered his time at more than 15 charity Dungeons and Dragons events throughout the United States to raise money for charity.

Stephen O’Brien
Outstanding Alumnus in Business and Enterprise
Bachelor of Business, 1994

Stephen O’Brien is a fifth-generation O’Brien family Toowoomba boy with an affiliation in the food industry that began at a young age in his family owned, Defiance Mill. Following his schooling at Nudgee College in Brisbane, Stephen attained a Diploma in Flour Milling and soon after, an apprenticeship as a fitter, turner, and machinist. At the age of 26, Stephen took the opportunity to further his studies at Toowoomba’s UniSQ, completing a Degree in Business before undertaking further study with the Australian Institute of Company Directors. His combined experiences have allowed him to hold key roles with several listed, privately owned, and private equity-based organisations. He has successfully led both food and beverage business in all states and territories across Australia. Additionally, Stephen has held executive and directorship roles with international companies in the USA, Middle East, Asia Pacific and across the African continent. In 2020, Stephen took on what he says rivals all previous positions, stepping into the role of CEO of Toowoomba’s rapidly growing agricultural business, Mort & Co. Stephen is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Niranjalli Wickramasinghe
Highly Commended Alumnus in Business and Enterprise
Postgraduate Certificate in Business, 2011; Master of Business Administration, 2012; and Postgraduate Certificate in Business, 2014

Niranjalli created her own academy in leadership and talent development, LEADIN – The Academy of Leadership and Talent Development in 2011 – the same year she started her UniSQ journey when she completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Business in Human Resource Management. Upon completion of the postgraduate, she received an award for The Most Significant Contributor to Learning and Development. She followed on with more education with the University, starting an MBA in 2012 and then a Postgraduate Certificate in Business in 2013. That same year she was a visiting lecturer for the UniSQ MBA Program in 2013 She is currently a Senior Manager – Training and Development for AIA Sri Lanka and is a former President, Secretary and Vice President CPD of the UniSQ Sri Lanka Alumni Chapter. Niranjalli also trains students for exams in speech and drama for the London College of Music Examinations and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and offers consulting work for external organisations and banks.

Jessica van Vonderen
Outstanding Alumnus in Creative Industries and Humanities
Bachelor of Arts, 2000

Growing up on the Darling Downs, Jessica completed her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Anthropology & German at the University’s Toowoomba campus in 2000 and went on to cut her teeth in the ABC’s Toowoomba and Bundaberg radio newsrooms before breaking into television news at the national broadcaster’s Brisbane studios. Between 2004 and 2012 she was the State Political Reporter for ABC News Brisbane and was a regular host and reporter for Queensland state elections until 2020 and was also the presenter for the ABC’S much-loved Stateline program from 2009 to 2012. Today she is the presenter of Queensland’s flagship 7pm TV news program and delights in speaking with the next generation of future journalists about careers in literacy and the media.

Rebecca Evanko
Highly Commended Alumnus in Creative Industries and Humanities
Bachelor of Arts, 2000; and Doctor of Philosophy, 2006

Rebecca is the Co-founder and Executive Director of Wilderwood Equine Therapy & Rescue - a non-profit charity to service people with autism – and co-wrote the Wilderwood curriculum for children’s and youth, and adult programs. She graduated from the University of Southern Queensland with a Bachelor of Arts, English Literature and History (with distinction) in 2000 and completed her PhD in Cognitive Linguistics in 2006. These achievements were once thought impossible by Rebecca, who was abandoned by her parents at the age of 15 forcing her to drop out of high school with a Year 9 education. Diagnosed with autism later in life, Rebecca said her success to date is thanks to a combination of strikingly sharp intellect, tenacity, and luck. Rebecca also wrote a memoir called Joy and wrote and produced the award-winning documentary, Hautism and Wilderwood. In 2022 she was named as the winner of the Bob Thomas Achievement Award. She has also led the creation of a Writing Centre at Bakersfield College in California, and was a Director for Divergent Labs, a non-profit board for autistic people from 2019 until 2022.

Pamela Farrell
Outstanding Alumnus in Education
Bachelor of General Studies, 2006; and Master of Education, 2009

Pamela is the Executive Director and Founder of GROW Community Food Literacy Centre – a registered charity in Niagara Falls in Ontario, Canada. A farmer, researcher, teacher and community advocate, Pamela is on a mission to apply food literacy research into practice to improve healthy eating and social justice in the Niagara Falls region. Originally from Switzerland, she completed a bachelor’s degree (General Studies) with distinction in 2006 with the University of Southern Queensland and followed that with a Master of Education (Special Education) in 2009. Earlier this year Pamela was recognised in the top 75 Canadian immigrants for her work in food literacy and food security and was also named as one of 10 honourees for the L’Oréal Paris Woman of Worth Award. She is currently a Sessional Lecturer at the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary.

 

Jenna Hutchinson
Outstanding Alumnus in Law and Justice
Bachelor of Laws, 2012

Jenna completed a Bachelor of Laws at UniSQ 10 years ago and today is working as a Partner at Turner Freeman Lawyers where she heads the Queensland Wills and Estates team. The Valedictorian of her graduating class at UniSQ in 2012, Jenna participated in the University’s Grants for Embedded Learning and Teaching Strategy program and was the first graduate of the University’s Law Program to be made partner in a national law firm. Jenna was listed in Doyle’s Guide as one of the recommended Wills & Estates Litigation Lawyers in Queensland for 2020 and 2021 and is a committee member of the Society of Trust and Equity Practitioners Queensland Branch, as well as a member of the Queensland Law Society. She willingly gives back her time to her Alma Mater, participating in the UniSQ Career Conversations series and presenting as a guest speaker at the UniSQ Supreme Court networking event. Jenna is also a volunteer at the Homeless Persons Legal Clinic.

 

Roderick McDonald
Outstanding Alumnus in Science and Engineering
Master of Engineering, 2017

Rod is the Managing Director, Principal Engineer, and Co-founder of Black Square Engineering. The industrial engineering services company has headquarters in Brisbane with regional offices based in Toowoomba, the Sunshine Coast and Townsville, providing solutions throughout Australia and Southeast Asia. He completed a Master of Engineering (Engineering Management) with the University of Southern Queensland in 2017 and remains connected to the institution as a Mentor in the 2022 UniSQ Student Leadership Excellence Academy. Rod is also the Director, Co-inventor and Co-founder of GR Products, and the Director, Co-founder, and Chair of the peopleproject Institute – an independent think tank dedicated to rehumanising people in the information age for the betterment of the world. A Director of Metro Holdings, he also holds memberships with the Risk Engineering Society, Australian Institute of Company Directors, Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association Inc, Elevated Work Platform Association, and Osmosis. Rod is also a Senior Office Bearer, College Chair and a Member of Congress and the Professional Standards Committee for Engineers Australia. In 2014 Rod was recognised at the Queensland Engineering Excellence Awards for Industrial Development and Manufacturing from Engineers Australia. He currently holds two patents within Australia and serves as an Executive Director of Zeus Austral Pacific.

 

Paul Morris
Highly Commended Alumnus in Science and Engineering
Master of Business Administration, 2012

Paul Morris is an engineering leader with a career in aerospace spanning 30 years. He has extensive experience across the aerospace services value chain, including maintenance, manufacturing, and design engineering of TF30 gas turbine engines. Once Paul established himself as a design engineering specialist in maintaining TAE Aerospace’s Engineering Management System and regulatory compliance, his career pivoted from engineering specialist to engineering manager through a series of promotions in quick succession. Paul realised that he needed to invest in developing his leadership capabilities to leverage his engineering knowledge to advance from operational management roles to a strategic leader. After completing his Project Management Diploma and MBA at UniSQ, Paul’s trajectory was realised. Paul is now the COO for TAE Aerospace where he leads over 250 staff globally. Paul is committed to supporting and nurturing his staff through continuous development and has a strong belief in investing in growing the regions and developing a thriving ecosystem that is sustainable and scalable.

Rachel Downie
Alumnus of the Year and Outstanding Alumnus in Education
Bachelor of Arts (Creative), 1991; and Graduate Diploma of Teaching, 1992

Rachel Downie is the CEO of Stymie. Twenty-five years ago, she became an educator to help young people flourish. After losing a Year 9 student to suicide, Rachel decided she needed to find a way to support young people to say something when things aren’t right. She discovered students often felt too frightened to come forward with possible life-saving information, because of peer expectations. This led Rachel to developing and self-funding Stymie, an old-fashioned word for stop, to allow students to anonymously report harm without fear. Stymie was developed with extensive consultation and help from students and educators. Since 2014, Stymie has been presented to more than 600,000 students.

Stymie is being implemented across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Arab Emirates for students to report family violence, bullying, cyber-bullying, suicide ideation, mental health concerns, illegal activity, harassment, self-harm, and harm to their communities. In 2020, Stymie schools received more than 66 000 notifications from concerned students, empowering them to act on their empathy and conscience and build on the culture of care in their schools.

Rachel, however, is so much more than a former teacher, entrepreneur, and CEO.  She was a Castaway on Channel 10’s Survivor Season 6, 2020 Queensland Australian of the Year, and is a surf lifesaver, a black belt in Shorikan Karate-Do and a mother. She won a National Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2003 and she was a 2018 Women in Digital ‘Making A Difference’ Award recipient. 

Angus Murray
Young Alumnus of the Year and Outstanding Alumnus in Law and Justice
Bachelor of Laws, 2012

Angus Murray is currently a Partner and Trademarks Attorney at Brisbane-based law firm, Irish Bentley Lawyers.

Graduating from the University of Southern Queensland with a Bachelor of Laws in 2012, Angus was the Founder of the Law Society of the University of Southern Queensland and for the past three years has been a lecturer within UniSQ’s Law School for whom he wrote the Emerging Legal Tech and Practice course.

Angus is also the Vice President of the Queensland Council for Civil Liberties, a Co-Founder and Director of The Legal Forecast and the Chair of Electronic Frontiers Australia’s Policy and Research Committee. Angus is admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland and the High Court of Australia with experience in intellectual property registration and enforcement and was listed as a finalist for the Lawyer’s Weekly 30 Under 30 Award for Intellectual Property (2018) and received the 30 Under 30 Award for Taxation (2019). Angus key interest for law is most keenly observed in his ability to identify and understand the intricate issues that face ecommerce, intellectual property, and the digital world in general, with a passion for the future of law and legal technology. Adrian Dudok Highly Commended Young Alumnus of the Year Bachelor of Business, 2018 Adrian Dudok is the Co-founder, Director and Chief Business Officer for the Brisbane-based company, Skyborne Technologies.  Skyborne Technologies develops smart aerial robotics to give Defence and security customers cutting-edge capabilities. They deliver mission critical technology solutions to protect service members and civilians. Leveraging his 2016 Brisbane City Council Lord Mayor’s Budding Entrepreneurs award, business acumen, and financial leadership, Adrian led capital raising efforts to incubate Skyborne Technologies’ R&D projects and employ 17 full-time staff. Adrian has worked in the commercial aviation industry for over a decade, which included roles as a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer before starting an aircraft part sales department and workshop management. It was during this time that Adrian completed his Bachelor of Business (Aircraft Maintenance Management) in 2018 with UniSQ. Adrian’s passion for entrepreneurship, start-ups, and innovation, has led the Co-founders of Skyborne Technologies into a joint venture with fellow Australian tech company to created Athena Artificial Intelligence, of which he holds the role of Director and Acting CFO. Athena AI develops AI enabled decision support software for Defence and offers the world’s first sensor to have effector capability with legal and ethical considerations in play. Kathleen Wincen Highly Commended Alumnus in Law and Justice Juris Doctor, 2017 Kathleen Wincen is a Solicitor and Community Engagement Professional with more than two decades of successful experience in positions supporting the recognition and achievement of disadvantaged and First Nations communities. As a committed advocate, Kathleen delivered the Seniors Legal and Support Service for Senior Australian’s experiencing Elder Abuse, in Toowoomba and surrounding regions for over three years through her role with TASC Legal and Social Justice Services where she worked as a Solicitor. Kathleen is recognised consistently for performance excellence and contributions to success in Community Legal, University and Private Sectors, as well as her Volunteer Roles within the community. Her volunteer roles include committee membership on four Darling Downs Health Service Boards in various positions, a member of the Department of Justice and Attorney-General- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Assistance Forum and she was also a Community Legal Centre - Queensland, First Nations Group Member. Kathleen now works as a Tutor at the University of Southern Queensland with the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) to provide law students with academic support and study assistance, along with her role as a Solicitor in the private sector. Kathleen is also a wife, mother, daughter, and grandmother and in November she begins her Masters (Applied Law). Sherry Holzapfel Outstanding Alumnus in Health and Wellbeing Master of Midwifery, 2010; and Bachelor of Nursing, 2010 Sherry Holzapfel, a proud Yidinji woman with cultural connections to the Butchulla, Gunggari and Kuku-Typhan tribe, has made her footprints known in committing her career to the Health and well-being of her people. Sherry’s passion stemmed from a young girl wanting to be a Nurse to care for her people. Today, she continues the journey of her commitment to ensure her People’s health and well-being is at the forefront of every discussion, decision and policy change, made a career out of putting the physical, social and emotional well-being of her health clients first, and maintaining a commitment to improve the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities throughout Queensland. A three-time graduate of the University of Southern Queensland, Sherry has completed a Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Midwifery, and certification in Advanced Nursing Practice. Sherry is currently the Executive Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health for Metro North Health Service in Brisbane, the largest Hospital and Health Service in Australia.  Sherry has worked in many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations in several senior leadership roles as the Health Service Manager in Mamu health Service, Primary Health Service Manager for PICC in Far North Queensland and other positions throughout Queensland. Sherry continues her ties to UniSQ post- graduation by supporting and mentoring her staff and community members to study, promoting UniSQ’s activities and sending job opportunities to CISER (now known as the College for First Nations) for wider network distribution for opportunities for students and graduates.  Sherry participates on numerous committees as an Indigenous representative, Queensland Maternity and Perinatal Quality Council, Metro North Board Sub-committee for Improving Indigenous Health outcomes and several state- wide committees to name a few. Amanda Ullman Highly Commended Alumnus in Health and Wellbeing Bachelor of Nursing, 2001 Amanda Ullman is a paediatric nurse and researcher who has a keen interest in the prevention of harm associated with the most common procedure in paediatric healthcare – the insertion of intravenous catheters. An advocate for hospitals youngest patients, Amanda has built her clinical and research career around her belief that children should be able to receive medical treatment in hospitals without harm. Her program of research on how to select, insert, manage, and remove the humble intravenous catheter is changing paediatric and vascular access practice, reducing infection and pain, and promoting efficient healthcare for children the world over. Amanda’s work has earned her the ExpertScape ranking of top global expert in central venous catheters, several National Health and Medical Research Council grants, as well as being awarded the 2021 Fulbright Future Scholar fellowship. A graduate of the University of Southern Queensland’s Bachelor of Nursing program in 2000, Amanda has published >100 peer-reviewed journal articles, including recently led an international panel to develop appropriateness guidelines for paediatric intravenous catheters. A mother of two, Amanda currently holds roles as Professor and Chair in Paediatric Nursing between Children’s Health Queensland and the University of Queensland and is also the Director of the Paediatric Teaching and Research Network, among other associate and scholarly positions. Nathan Thomas Outstanding Alumnus in Science & Engineering Bachelor of Information Technology, 2003 Nathan Thomas has earned himself a reputation as an experienced leader that transforms teams and businesses to deliver improved performance and growth. As the Chief Operating Officer for HCM company Tambla Limited, Nathan manages all facets of service delivery, has led the implementation of the company’s Project Delivery Office and Change Advisory Board, and driven a service led recovery to improve customer satisfaction ratings. His current role is supported by years of management experience, including as the COO for Integrated Payment Technologies Limited – where he assisted the company listing on the Australia Stock Exchange and as the Storage and Big Data Practice Manager (South Pacific) for tech giant, Hewlett Packard. A dual Olympian, Nathan competed in the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 (as team captain), playing 317 games, and scoring 525 goals for the ‘Aussie Sharks’, the Australia’s Men’s water polo team. Sally Foley-Lewis Outstanding Alumnus in Business and Enterprise Master of Business Administration, 2005; and Graduate Diploma in Management, 2002 Sally Foley-Lewis is a self-leadership and middle management expert who has combined her skills from more than 20 years of management, and experience as a CEO, to dedicate her career to helping professionals achieve their goals and master their leadership skills. Since 2010, Sally has directed her own company, focused on helping managers lead through workshops, presentations, and executive coaching. An author of five books, Sally works with clients from a wide range of industries, from the banking and finance and legal sectors, government departments, corporate companies to community groups. Having worked in the Middle East, including as a Trade Consultant for Austrade, and in Germany, Asia and across Australia, Sally is a sought-after keynote speaker and executive coach. In 2020 she was named the Breakthrough Speaker of the Year by Professional Speakers Australia and came away with a Gold and Bronze Award at the ‘Stevie’s’ Women in Business 2020 Awards. Sally is a proud double graduate of the University of Southern Queensland, having obtained her Graduate Diploma in Management in 2001 and her MBA in 2005. She’s also completed a Stand-Up Comedy Course, just to stay on her toes! Dhamitha Pathirana Highly Commended Alumnus in Business and Enterprise Master of Business Administration, 2013 Dhamitha Pathirana is an enthusiastic and ambitious professional Marketer, who has a proven track record for achieving results in highly competitive environments. A talented Marketer, and has an impressive career spanning more than 15 years. Since 2016 he has been working at Hayleys Advantis Limited, the transportation and logistics arm of Hayleys PLC, a blue-chip conglomerate in Sri Lanka. Currently he functions as the General Manager -Group Business Support and Planning, where he has been instrumental in driving innovation and growth within the company. Dhamitha is also a Fellow Member of CIM (UK), a Chartered Marketer, a Life Member of the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing and an Associate Member of the Australian Marketing Institute and conducts Marketing and Corporate Digital Communications lectures for a range of tertiary institutions. He has also contributed to the Sri Lanka Alumni Chapter of University of Southern Queensland as Vice President Continuous Professional Development (CPD) since 2018 and has organized impactful CPD events during his tenure. Lauren Stuart Outstanding Alumnus in Creative Industries and Humanities Bachelor of Theatre Arts, 2010 Lauren Stuart has built a successful career in the limelight and ensuring others can find their time to shine, too. Lauren’s career to date boasts years with Australia Zoo as the Entertainment Coordinator and Media Spokesperson, as a Lead Brand Ambassador for Octagon Australia and nearly a decade with the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), working for NIDA’s corporate training arm as a Course Manager, Senior Manager and eventually, Head of Department. In 2021, Lauren launched her own business as a Civil Celebrant and Public Speaking Coach. Drawing on the skills she learnt as an actor, Lauren designs and delivers bespoke ceremonies, as well as coaches’ clients to build their confidence and communication skills.

Eve Fraser
Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 2002

Eve graduated from UniSQ in 2002 with a Bachelor of Business with majors in Marketing and Human Resource Management.

During her time at UniSQ she started her own business, and as her studies progressed, so did the business. By the time she graduated, her swim school and training business Oz Swim Aquatics was well established. Today her business is an international success.

For the past 10 years, Eve has also worked full-time as a caseworker working with displaced people for the International Organisation for Migration which forms the migration arm of the United Nations.

Eve’s Global Aquatic Project has seen her working with developing countries to address the barriers to participation and provide quality education to ensure every child has access to learn to swim programs. This project is reaching communities where the drowning statistics are tragically high.

Since November 2018, Eve has trained over 500 teachers who in turn have delivered thousands of learn to swim lessons free of charge to those most in need in their communities.

Yee Kuan ‘Marc’ Chua
Young Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2014

Marc, who graduated from UniSQ with a Master of Business Administration majoring in Leadership in 2014, began his working life with a stint in IT sales before venturing into the textile and apparel industry.

Soon after graduating from UniSQ in 2014, Marc started his own sportswear company ULTRON in Malaysia in 2015.

Today, ULTRON is known in the region as a leading sportswear brand. The brand has spread across 12 countries in Asia alone, and was awarded as Malaysia’s ‘Superbrand’ for two consecutive years in 2018 and 2019. The brand has recently made its mark in the Middle East. The brand sponsors national athletes for international tournaments, with Marc working closely with his research and development staff to continually improve their products.

Marc has been recognised as one of the 100 Most Influential Young Entrepreneurs of the year by Entrepreneur Insight Magazine Malaysia. He was also the winner of the Young Entrepreneur Award 2018 from the Malaysian Australian Alumni Association.

Nandasiri Ponnamperuma
Alumni Chapter Volunteer of the Year
Master of Business Administration (Finance), 2009

Nandasiri Ponnamperuma graduated from UniSQ in 2009 with a Master of Business Administration majoring in Finance.

Nandasiri has more than 30 years’ experience in the finance sector, having worked in a range of senior roles including tax and management consulting. At present he is precedent partner at Ponnamperuma & Co (Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and is founding member of The Certified Management Accountants of Sri Lanka.

Nandasiri has a keen interest in social justice and community development and has served as Board President of SOS Children Villages Sri Lanka since 2016, and is also an active volunteer with the Brothers of Charity Sri Lanka Chapter - Disabled Child Care School.

Nandisiri has been a committee member of the UniSQ Alumni Sri Lanka Chapter since 2015 and currently holds the position of Treasurer. Since joining the Chapter, he has volunteered more than 100 hours of this time to the UniSQ Alumni Program.

Eddie Fraser
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Juris Doctor, 2017

Eddie Fraser graduated with a Juris Doctor from UniSQ in 2017 and was admitted as a Lawyer of the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2018. Eddie is employed as a civilian prosecutor at the Queensland Police Service (QPS), currently based in Toowoomba.

Prior to this appointment, he was based in Mount Isa where he gained invaluable experience at the Gulf of Carpentaria court Circuit. Prior to his QPS roles, Eddie worked for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, Queensland Government Ministerial Services, and the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy.

Eddie has a strong commitment to social justice, and is an active community volunteer, having assisted the Caboolture and Surrounds Multicultural Association, the Moreton Bay Regional Community Legal Service, KYC Youth and Headspace.

In order to continue to develop his professional knowledge and skills, Eddie has recently commenced study towards a PhD.

Alicia Doherty
Outstanding Alumni Award
Bachelor of Business, 1998

A Bachelor of Business graduate with a major in Marketing, Alicia has had an interesting career since her service in the U.S Army where she was trained as a UH-IH Helicopter Repairer and Aviation Life Support Equipment Specialist.

She moved to Australia in 1994 after her husband was posted to the Oakey Army Aviation Base, which is when her connection to UniSQ began.

From Oakey, she moved to Sydney and worked for Railcorp, The Australian Trade Commission and Events NSW, and served on the board of The American Club Sydney. Her next stop was Canberra, during which time she became President of the Canberra Australian American Association (AAA).

As President of the AAA, Alicia organised and presided over numerous significant commemorative activities that honoured Americans and Australians involved in the Battle of the Coral Sea, also known as ‘the battle that saved Australia’.

Alicia is now the General Manager – Queensland of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Australia. In this role, Alicia is responsible for managing events that bring the business, government, public, private, commercial, and not-for-profit communities together to encourage trade and investment between Australia and the US.

Guillermo ‘Bill’ Capati
Outstanding Alumni Award
Graduate Diploma of Municipal Engineering, 1991

Prior to his graduation from UniSQ with a Graduate Diploma of Municipal Engineering in 1991, Bill graduated from Mapua University, Philippines with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1973 and obtained his Master of Architecture Degree from the University of the Philippines in 1982.

Bill is a Chartered Professional Engineer (Civil & Environmental) with over 40 years’ experience. He is a Fellow of Engineers Australia, Fellow of the International Water Association, and an Adjunct Professor at the Advanced Water Management Centre, University of Queensland.

In 2009, Bill was named Queensland Public Sector Professional of the Year, and in 2013, Bill was awarded the Public Service Medal for Outstanding public service to the sustainable water future of the Gold Coast and the broader South East Queensland Region.

In 2016, Bill was awarded the ‘Pamana Ng Pilipino’ Award, a Presidential Award from Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. This award is given to Filipinos living overseas, who have brought their country honour and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession. To cap off an already impressive array of achievements, in 2017, Bill was named Engineers Australia Queensland Professional Engineer of the Year.

Dr Anne-Maree Nielsen
Outstanding Alumnus of the Year | Indigenous Alumnus of the Year
Master of Nursing Honours, 2010; Master of Mental Health Nursing, 2008; Bachelor of Nursing, 2004

Dr Anne-Maree Nielsen is a proud Wakka Wakka woman of Queensland’s South Burnett Region with associations to the Barkindji Nations in the Darling River Basin Region, Western New South Wales. She is passionate about improving the health and wellbeing for people in the Indigenous community and has highlighted the importance of community health prevention resolutions to ensure long term health. As such, most of her career has been focussed on Indigenous healthcare in capacities of both a researcher and registered nurse. Anne has experience in various positions at the Royal Darwin Hospital including as a Surgical Intern, Renal Intern, Medical Intern and Orthopaedic Intern. Currently, she is the Resident Medical Officer in the Acute Mental Health Unit at Toowoomba Hospital. In addition, she has recently been accepted by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and will be commencing her journey to become a GP. Anne's extensive involvement within this area of medicine has also resulted in her contribution to several research papers and her membership in the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association (AIDA).

Dr Jessa Rogers
Young Alumnus of the Year Award
Master of Education, 2014

Dr Jessa Rogers’ heart for the community and influential nature has paved the way for bettering Indigenous education. Jessa graduated from UniSQ in 2014 with a Master of Education. Since then she has held school-based teaching positions, professional memberships and academic positions, including her current position as the Project Director, Indigenous Research and Education Strategy at the University of New England. In her previous capacity as Assistant Professor at the University of Canberra, Jessa wrote two new Indigenous units to be included as compulsory units in both primary and secondary degrees to close the gap. Earlier in her career she was the inaugural principal of Australia’s first boarding school for Indigenous teenage mothers – the Cape York Girl Academy. Jessa’s contribution to many academic publications, articles, reports and conference papers has not gone unnoticed and she has won numerous awards, including a Fulbright scholarship which saw her based at Harvard University in the Native American Program. Jessa is a member of the a Federal Expert Committee on English Language Learning for Indigenous Children (ELLIC).

 

Stacey Burrell
Highly Commended Young Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2015; Bachelor of Business (with distinction), 2011

Graduating from UniSQ with a Bachelor of Business and Master of Business Administration, Stacey Burrell has been a stable and significant force at Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE). Being employed by TSBE within six months of its creation, Stacey has never wasted an opportunity. She started as the Marketing and Membership Manager before moving to Executive Officer for several years. Stacey’s strong work ethic and professional nature makes her a highly valued employee which saw her take an opportunity as Acting CEO early in 2018 alongside her current position as the Chief Operating Officer. In addition, Stacey contributes much of her time with the community. She is the Chairman and Director of not for profit business, Ability Enterprises which provides employment opportunities to people facing employment barriers. She is also a Director of the UniSQ Student Guild, committee member of the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland and has been a long-term volunteer in both the Pyjama Foundation and her local Toastmasters committee.

Heidi Dugan
International Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts (Creative), 1994

 

Heidi graduated from UniSQ in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts (Creative) before going to Japan on a scholarship. Determined to gain experience and improve her career she then moved to China and studied international trade. Heidi has had extensive experience in the TV and media industry including as one of the first foreign TV hosts on Chinese television, an emcee, TV presenter and judge. Commended for her work, Heidi has been awarded Best Foreign TV Host and Most Popular Foreign TV Host on the International Channel of Shanghai. Over 17 years ago she launched her very popular cooking show You Are The Chef which has been awarded the Best Foreign Language Program two years in a row. Her abundance of skills and knowledge from both Australia and China has also allowed Heidi to assist companies enter the China market. In addition, Heidi has published a cookbook titled Follow Me and Learn to Cook Like a 5 Star Chef.

Chia Yoong Hui
Highly Commended International Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2005

 

Chia Yoong Hui is a well-respected and successful entrepreneur. He is founder, chairman and CEO of Ascenz Pte Ltd, Asia’s leading provider in vessel management, established in Singapore in 2008. The company is well known for its award-winning Shipulse solutions which can be used by clients to optimise vessel performance. His effective communication skills, insight and innovative skills makes him popular amongst business partners and clients. Last year Yoong Hui was awarded the EY Entrepreneur of the Year - Maritime Technology Solutions. Yoong Hui further uses his experience and passion for lifelong learning to mentor ambitious entrepreneurs. In 2017 he had the privilege of having his success story shared by the minister during her speech in parliament. Yoong Hui has been awarded the Enterprise 50 Award in 2017 and 2016, SME 1000 – Emerging Company in 2017, Emerging Enterprise Award in 2012, National Infocomm Award in 2010 and the Minister’s Innovation Award in 2009. In addition, Yoong Hui is an advisory council member of the Australian Alumni Singapore Council of Advisors and was also the founding Chairman for the UniSQ Singapore Alumni Chapter where he was at the helm for five years. 

 

Hoa Cruickshank
Alumni Service Award
Master of Learning and Development, 2016; Master of Education (with distinction), 2014

 

Hoa Cruickshank is passionate about learning and teaching. After obtaining an array of certificates and academic qualifications from various universities and institutions, three years ago Hoa established an English Language School which uses the application of an iPad with IQ Board in Second Language Learning and Teaching. Today the school has more than 120 students. She is currently Managing Director of Vung Tau E-School, a private language centre in Vung Tau, Vietnam and Managing Director of Phuc Gia Trading and Tourism Limited Company. During her time at UniSQ Hoa would always engage in extracurricular activities and has contributed to the Vietnamese enrolment with UniSQ, promoting it among her networks. She was one of the founding members of UniSQ’s Vietnam Alumni Chapter where she remains as Treasurer and regularly organises and attends events.

 

Professor Michael Kimlin
Research/Academic Alumnus of the Year
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of Southern Queensland, 2001; Graduate Diploma of Further Education and Training, 1999; Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc), Biological and Physical Sciences, 1996

 

Professor Michael Kimlin has made many extraordinary contributions to cancer research throughout his stellar career. Michael is a world renowned radiation epidemiologist who specialises in ultraviolet radiation and human health outcomes. He is currently the Foundation Professorial Chair in the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) and Professorial Chair at Cancer Council Queensland (CCQ). He is also a current member of many review panels including his position as the Chair of the NHRMC Partnership review panel. In 2004, he established the AusSun Research Laboratory at QUT which has received global recognition. Over the past seven years Michael has successfully supervised students to completion; 4 Masters and 13 PhD. In addition, he has more than 175 publications, some of which are included in leading journals including the American Journal of Epidemiology. He has received over $19 million in grants to fund numerous agencies worldwide and has received invitations to be a keynote speaker at many national and international events. Michael has been fortunate to be a recipient of the prestigious Top Ten Paper of the Year Award for the American Journal of Epidemiology 2014.

Rachel Ranton
Professional Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2016; Postgraduate Certificate in Business, 2013

 

2018 Veteran Employee of the Year Rachel Ranton continues to use her military skills of leadership, decisiveness and enthusiasm to learn and lead change within the workplace. Currently an Inclusion and Diversity Consultant with Westpac Group, her passion for inclusiveness shines through her prominent role in many programs across the organisation. The Autism Hiring Program – Tailored Talent was executed in response to Rachel’s extensive research and thorough recommendations into how best to encourage and support people on the Autism Spectrum and their careers. In addition, Rachel’s involvement in the Veterans Hiring Initiative, Inclusive Leadership Training (ILEAD) and Women of Influence Awards has not gone unrecognised. Last year, Rachel presented a TED Talk discussing the importance of group dynamics and leadership through which she applied both her corporate and military experience.

Direpang Segosebe
Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Nursing, 2010

Ms Direpang Segosebe is a role model in Botswana, Southern Africa where she resides as a Nursing Officer/Administrator within the Greater Gaborone District Health Management Team (DHMT). After graduating from UniSQ in 2010 with a Bachelor of Nursing, Direpang continues to impress. Focussing on the less privileged population of Botswana including the elderly, disadvantaged children and street youth, her achievements have improved the health and wellbeing of the community in Botswana. She has successfully advocated the dangers of road use for pedestrians and in 2016 saw the implementation of speed bumps in areas with heavy foot traffic. In a response to Direpang’s health awareness programs, underprivileged community members are also provided with free access to health care services including screening for TB, diabetes, blood pressure, HIV testing and eye tests. In 2017, she was awarded a service star by Consumer Watchdog Botswana for exceptional customer service and regularly appears in newspapers where she is referred to as a Florence Nightingale figure, a result of her exceptional contribution to her community.

Kevin Wilson
Highly Commended Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Master of Professional Accounting, 2016; Master of Business Administration, 2007; Bachelor of Business, 2004

 

Kevin Wilson’s outstanding involvement with his community earns him the respect of everyone he meets. Graduating from UniSQ with two masters and a bachelor’s degree, Kevin has progressed quickly in his career from a small business proprietor early on to his second CEO position at The Crommelin Group. When he’s not at work or with his family, Kevin is President of the City of Perth Triathlon Club, Treasurer of Gridiron West, Hall of Fame Member of Gridiron QLD, Communications Director of Gridiron Australia, Coaching Director of Perth Blitz Gridiron Club and Head Coach for many community teams. Earlier this year he helped form Women’s football, providing around 150 females with access to football in Western Australia. In addition, Kevin was a mentor within the UniSQ Mentoring Program for a few years and continues to regularly mentor others in his community.

Dr Kevin 'Kev' Carmody
Outstanding Alumnus of the Year | Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1980

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Dr Kevin 'Kev' Carmody's transition from rural back country labourer to industry icon was not an expected one for him – only when he got the chance to study at UniSQ, which in the late 1970’s was under the moniker of the Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education did he begin to embrace his talent. Through his studies he eventually progressed to working on his PhD, the history of the Darling Downs between 1830-1860. Kev’s background and love for his culture was best displayed here, where he used music and oral tradition to voice his passions. The rest was history – Kev’s career was that of a touring singer/songwriter, performer, fundraisers, university campuses and Aboriginal music festivals. His seven studio albums contain songs designed to promote awareness and understanding of Indigenous culture and perhaps his most well-known song, ‘From little things big things grow’ is considered a prominent song for change. His contribution to Australia’s musical culture has been recognised with a number of industry awards including the 1993 Country Music Association of Australia Heritage Award, 2009 Queensland Great Award, as well as being an ARIA Hall of Fame inductee.

Air Marshall (Rtd) Geoff Brown, AO
Highly Commended Professional Alumnus
Bachelor of Engineering, 1979

Geoff Brown's stellar military career in serving Australia began when he joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1980. After 11 years of serving as a pilot and an instructor, Geoff rose from various leadership positions before culminating in Chief of the Air Force, Air Marshal, a position where he proudly remained from 2011-2015. As Air Marshal, he had the immense responsibility of organising projects worth up to $3.5 billion dollars and was tasked with strategizing and developing plans and projects as well as influencing and interacting with the government and stakeholders. Geoff made the effort to ensure the future air force would be fully equipped with technology and equipment, ordering and commissioning over 150 new aircraft while also reducing expenditure and the Air Force’s Sustainment budget by $200 million per year. Geoff was also a leading champion for organisational change in the areas of recruitment and training, gender and cultural equality and safety and technology. For his service he has been given the title of Officer of the Order of Australia. Today, Geoff continues to collaborate with and advise government leaders and international stakeholders as Director of the Williams Foundation and Mentor at the Centre for Strategic Defence Studies.

Dr Tracey Brickell
Research/Academic Alumnus of the Year
Master of Psychology, 2000; Doctor of Psychology, 2003

Dr Tracey Brickell is a Senior Scientist and Scientific Director for the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), Maryland, USA. She is also a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Maryland, USA. Dr. Brickell has published more than 39 manuscripts, 100 abstracts, and 120 conference presentations. Dr. Brickell is currently responsible for the scientific direction of two nationwide (U.S.), multi-site, 15-Year longitudinal traumatic brain injury research projects that are part of a mandate by the U.S. Congress. The studies examine outcome from traumatic brain injury incurred by service members and veterans during deployment to the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the long-term effect of traumatic brain injury on the service member’s family. The studies are funded at more than USD $45-million and supported by over 40 research support staff.

Brett Cumming
Highly Commended Research/Academic Alumnus
Master of Applied Linguistics, 2010; Master of Education, 2013; Master of Education (TESOL), 2016

Following his graduation from UniSQ’s Master Degree in Applied Linguistics, Brett Cumming has since spent his time devoted to teaching others, both domestically and overseas. He worked full-time as an Associate Professor at a Japanese Prefectural University for five years, while also performing other lecturing, administrative and research duties. Continuing his passion for educating others, Brett wrote 12 published papers and numerous book reviews, co-authored two textbooks and presented at international Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) conferences, while writing regular newspaper columns on bilingualism for overseas publications. Brett has received a Master of Education and a Master of TESOL, both from UniSQ, and completed the coursework for a Doctorate of Education, with a focus on writing in a second language. His dozens of academic publications and public speaking roles in both English and Japanese show his dedication to education, many of them focused on the barriers of bilingualism and career development through TESOL. Currently he works as an examiner and language instructor at Griffith University’s English Language Institute and as a lecturer at Griffith College, both based on the Gold Coast.

Shane Elson
International Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering Technology, 2001

Shane Elson’s career in Engineering began in 1994 and continued when he graduated from UniSQ with a Bachelor degree in Engineering Technology in 2000. Since then, his 20 years in both private and government engineering offices gave him the skills he needed to uproot his life in Australia and move to Indonesia with his family, starting his own engineering consultancy, Innovative Solutions Indonesia, as well as a locally based non-profit in South Kalimantan. Living onsite, Shane partnered with local professionals and employed local staff in order to help those in greatest need in isolated rural villages. Providing clean and affordable drinking water, public health education while continuing to develop a sanitation solution, Shane was motivated by both his passion for engineering and his high value of the human life founded in his faith in Christ. Overcoming the struggles of language and culture, Shane helped to establish a clean drinking water program for seven villages (as of July 2017) in order to provide non-contaminated, affordable water and drastically lower mortality rates. He received the Technologist of the Year in 2016 by Engineers Australia at both the Queensland state and Australian national level. Shane will receive his second Master degree, his first from UniSQ, in 2017.

David Fairman
Highly Commended International Alumnus
Master of Project Management, 2007; Master of Business Administration, 2009

David Fairman is the Chief Information Security Officer for the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). In this role he is responsible for the strategy, oversight and governance for Information Security and Cyber Security globally across RBC. Prior to joining RBC, David was with JP Morgan Chase & Co holding the positions of Deputy Technology Controls Officer and Global Head of Technology Risk and Control Practices. Prior to JPMC, David was with RBS, holding several roles including CISO RBS Americas and Head of Information Security EMEA. In his tenure at RBS, he lived and worked in the UK, The Netherlands and the USA. David was raised and educated in Australia where he received his B.S. in Software Engineering and Computer Science. He then completed two Masters, one in Business Administration and the second in Project Management. David began his career in Information Security while serving in the Royal Australian Air Force’s Electronic Warfare and Communications group where he gained valuable experience in the technology, policy and process aspects of security and risk management. Subsequently, David worked in a variety of roles ranging from security architect, engineering, operations and consultant, mainly in the Utilities and Financial Services industries. In 2015, David was named as one of the Top 10 CISOs to know, and in 2016 was published as a co-author of ‘Cyber Risk’ by publisher Risk Books.

Michael Hayes
Professional Alumnus of the Year
Master of Professional Studies, 2012

Michael’s passion and love for all things wine is evident in his vast 37 year experience in the industry, which includes consulting, education and vineyard design. Although he graduated from UniSQ in 2012 with a Master of Professional Studies (Viticulture), his talent has been put to expert use since 1999, where he still works with Symphony Hill Wines. Since 2007, he has also been engaged with the Queensland College of Wine and Tourism (QCWT). Michael is a contract wine maker for 15 other wineries and has helped train many other students in viticulture and winemaking. As one of the Granite Belt’s premier wine makers, he has received the Samuel Bassett Award in 2014 for “A significant contribution by an individual to the Queensland Wine Industry”. Michael’s national impact has been recognised through the Churchill Fellowship he received in 2012 which allowed him to research 50 European Wine Regions and integrate those findings into his “Vineyard for the Future” project at QCWT which will provide over 100 alternative wine grape varieties throughout Queensland to be trialled. In addition to his slew of accolades and experiences internationally and domestically in the industry, Michael has designed and implemented at least 100 vineyards throughout Queensland and New South Wales, and has received over 95 Gold Medals and 76 trophies in the past decade alone. Currently involved in researching lower alcohol wines for the changing Australian cuisine and designing alternative variety vineyards around Australia, Mike consults on 33 vineyards and 15 wineries at present and is involved in mentoring new industry employees and enthusiasts.

Mayor Mark Jamieson
Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1996

Since his graduation from UniSQ in 1996, Mark Jamieson has been actively involved in shaping stronger regional communities through his leadership roles in both the public and private sector. Following over two decades in senior roles in media and publishing, Mark was appointed Chief Executive of APN Australian Publishing in 2006, where he was accountable for over $1 billion of newspaper assets. Mark was first elected in 2012 as Mayor of the Sunshine Coast Council. As Mayor, Mark is leading a progressive agenda which has at its heart creating opportunity for residents and communities. Under Mark’s leadership, the Sunshine Coast Council is driving an innovative economic development strategy which is focused on improving employment options and building income levels for the residents of the Sunshine Coast. Mark’s drive and passion to deliver a stronger future for his community is evident in the results the Sunshine Coast is now achieving - the region has been rated as having the second strongest performing economy in Queensland; unemployment rates have been lowered by more than half what they were when Mark was first elected; household income levels are now close to the State average; and the region has achieved national recognition for several of its environmental programs. Mark actively supports a number of not for profit organisations including domestic-abuse prevention organisation White Ribbon, Sunnykids, Surf Life Saving Queensland and the Beacon Foundation which assists in providing youth education and employment opportunities.

Allysha Jensen
Highly Commended Community Service Alumnus
Bachelor of Nursing, 2013

Allysha has dedicated her life to assisting others and helping the community around her, both in Australia and overseas, including several third world countries. She has visited Nepal eight times in order to provide support and work with the Children’s Welfare Centre. During one of her trips to Kathmandu in 2015, she arrived just three days before an earthquake devastated the city, and although she was given the chance to be flown home, she chose to stay and help relief workers rebuild, including providing food and shelters, co-funding a pop-up organisation in order to provide care and schools for those affected. Additionally, she lived in slum communities in Kolkata in order to learn about the people and educate women about their rights, assisted servants in India and worked in a palliative care hospital. In Australia, she works with a number of communities including the Waiters’ Union and Catholic Worker Movement. She is currently studying for her graduate Bachelor’s Degree in Midwifery.

Suresh Muttiah
Chapter Volunteer Alumnus of the Year
Postgraduate Certificate in Business, 2010; Master of Business Administration, 2011

Suresh Muttiah commenced his role as the Chapter President in 2016, at a time when the Chapter was in need of strong direction and leadership in order to re-engage members. He has worked tirelessly to reconnect members to the UniSQ Alumni Relations Office and as a result the chapter now regularly holds both social and professional development events to keep its members engaged. His enthusiasm and passion for the chapter has resulted in establishing close ties with the Institute of Chartered Account Sri Lanka (ICASL), a partner institution where many Sri Lanka-based alumni study. Suresh has actively sought the help of both the UniSQ Alumni Relations Office as well as ICASL to grow the membership and take advantage of all social and professional development opportunities that are available. His dedication to ensuring the chapter has a significant presence at the ICASL graduation ceremonies is key in securing further membership.

Cara-Ann Simpson
Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Visual Arts, 2008; Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours), 2009

Since 2008, Cara’s Bachelor of Visual Arts degree has led her to produce a lifetime’s worth of work while inspiring others to do the same. Cara’s artistic and community endeavours have been hampered by health concerns, but this has only strengthened her resolve to produce as much work as possible. In 2010 she learned she had a benign brain lesion, and a few weeks later she was electrocuted accidentally, which caused heart complications and further lesions, resulting in a constant migraine condition. Regardless, she has persevered in her love of art. Travelling internationally, she has spoken at conferences while collaborating and exhibiting installations, including a solo exhibition in Seattle. During this period she reached Anthill’s 30under30 award for outstanding entrepreneurial endeavours for her art practice among young Australians. Taking on the role of Executive Co-Director at Electrofringe, a non-profit arts organisation during 2011-2013, Cara curated and produced a five-day festival with a visitation of over 15 000 people. She was involved in the Regional Arts Initiative which included touring exhibitions, concerts and professional development courses. Cara was also Curator and Acting Manager at Bundoora Homestead Art Centre, a public art gallery that saw a 35 per cent visitation increase through marketing and high quality exhibitions. She currently works at Cruden Farm, the renowned estate of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch.

Penelope Twemlow
Highly Commended Young Alumnus
Master of Project Management and Master of Business Administration, 2010

Penelope Twemlow has made a name for herself in several fields due to her professionalism, skills and advocating for women’s advancement in male-dominated fields. Her career covers a vast array of positions from serving in the Royal Australian Navy for 10 years to holding positions including General Manager, Director and Chief Executive Officer in various managerial roles. She holds 17 years’ experience in both public and private sectors. Penelope is the Founder and Chairperson of Women in Power, an organisation whose mission it is to advance the roles of women in Electrotechnology industries. She also holds the role of Chair of the Queensland Government’s Electrical Safety Education Committee and volunteers with Team Rubicon, which combines the skills of experienced military personnel with first responders in order to deploy emergency response teams as rapidly as possible. Penelope is also an Ambassador for White Ribbon to prevent domestic violence, Beyond Blue for mental health, and empowering women through the YWCA. She aims to provide support and raise funds for the homeless and assisting services for veterans who have returned from duty. Of her many accolades, she is the winner of the 2016 Queensland Telstra Business Women’s Award for Social Enterprise and Not-For-Profit, as well as the 2016 APAC CEO of the Year.

Sharon Boyce
Outstanding Alumnus of the Year | Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1990; Graduate Diploma in Further Education and Training, 1993 Master of Education – Honours, 1997

Sharon Boyce is a true example of what can be achieved with a determined attitude. Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at 11, Sharon is confined to an electric wheelchair, but has not let her circumstances stop her from attaining her personal, career and community goals. Sharon has written a children’s book to help kids learn about physical disability, she is involved in a number of local and state networks and organisations, and she developed Discovering DisAbility and Diversity – a first-of-its-kind experiential disability awareness program that travels around the region informing the community about people’s differences and how to celebrate them.

David Fagan
Professional Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1978

For more than a decade David Fagan acted as the voice of, and for, Queensland through his leadership and editorship of The Courier-Mail. He also led media company, News Corp’s 41 state mastheads through the transition from print to multimedia publishing, during which time he had an editorial staff of more than 700 people and a budget of AUD$70 million. David now applies those formative skills at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), as Director of Corporate Transition. He is also a Director of Carers’ Queensland, a Deputy State Australian Republican Movement (ARM) Convenor and an Australian Press Council Adjudicator. David prides himself on his role in developing news and media products that better told the story of everyday Queenslanders.

Sean Ryan
International Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 1999

United Kingdom-based astronomer Professor Sean Ryan has worked in observatories in Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, where he worked with the Hubble Space Telescope. Sean is a Professor of Astrophysics and is currently the Head of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the UK’s Higher Education Academy. His research studies the formation of elements across cosmic history and focuses on the birth of the Milky Way and the discovery of its oldest stars. 

Rael Lange
Research/Academic Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Applied Science, 1994; Graduate Diploma of Applied Science, 1996; Doctor of Philosophy, 2000

Dr Rael Lange is an award-winning researcher in the field of clinical neuropsychology, in both civilian and military settings, at a national and international level. He is currently the Research Director and Senior Scientist for the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland, USA. Rael also serves as the Scientific Director for a large-scale congressionally mandated study into the outcomes of traumatic brain injury within the first 15 years of injury. For the past 16 years he has been an active clinical researcher and has published more than 119 peer reviewed papers and book chapters, 172 published abstracts, and 232 conference presentations. He is currently responsible for a national program of research (USA) funded at more than USD$45 million.

Abdulkarim Al Zarouni
Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 2010

Abdulkarim Al Zarouni is an enterprising 29-year-old. He is an award-winning, Key Account Manager at Dubai International Airport where he has been recognised for his contribution to the implementation of new safety practices and improving work performance within various departments across airport operations. Abdulkarim is an entrepreneur, having launched several businesses under the banner of Al Zarouni Sons Group. He is a real estate consultant who has won awards for his innovative ideas and passion relating to the United Arab Emirates property environment. Lastly, but certainly not least, Abdulkarim is a humanitarian aid volunteer who has worked with several international aid organisation such as Doctors Without Borders and IIRO in Africa and at the Syrian-Lebanese border, and with other Dubai-based not-for-profit groups whose goals are to support local causes.

Odette Best
Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Doctor of Philosophy, 2012

Dr Odette Best is an Aboriginal woman who has had a long and distinguished career as a Registered Nurse, an academic and an historian of Aboriginal nurses and midwives. Her PhD, titled Yatdjuligin: The Stories of Queensland Aboriginal Nurses 1950-2005, explored the journey of six Aboriginal Registered Nurses across six decades. Odette has been acknowledged for her work through a Churchill Fellowship in 2002 and an International Council of Nursing Fellowship in 2009. She was also awarded the 2015 Tertiary Teaching and Learning Award from the Australian Educational Publishing Awards for her textbook Yatdjuligin: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nursing and Midwifery Care. She is committed to primary health care within Aboriginal health, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) and women’s health services.

Johnny Hung
Chapter Volunteer of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1992

Johnny Hung is a Hong Kong Practising Accountant and Chartered Secretary, and the owner of M.H.Hung & Co, a Hong Kong-based accounting firm. He is also the current Chair of the UniSQ Graduates Society Hong Kong Alumni Chapter and was the driving force behind the chapter’s restructure in 2010 and its subsequent growth and success. Over the last six years, Johnny has worked tirelessly to strengthen the chapter’s ties to UniSQ and its relationships with local businesses and industry. After serving as Vice-Chair for four years, Johnny was unanimously elected as Chair in 2014, with his platform of passion for promoting and fostering fellowship among UniSQ alumni living and working in Hong Kong. Chapter members meet regularly for social, volunteer and professional events.

Maree Toombs
Outstanding Alumnus of the Year & Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Education (Primary) 1999; Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning, 2007; Doctor of Philosophy, 2011

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Maree Toombs is a proud Kamilaroi/Kooma woman from Goodooga in north western New South Wales who grew up surrounded by strong family members who contributed to the struggle for Aboriginal Rights. Maree was the first Aboriginal person to be awarded a PhD from UniSQ. She has more than 13 years’ experience teaching and developing curriculum with an Indigenous perspective both in education and health. In 2010, Maree was appointed Director of Indigenous Health at the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine. She is also a member of the Expert Advisory Committee for Indigenous Health to the Medical Deans of Australia and New Zealand and the current Chairperson of Carbal Aboriginal Medical Centre in Toowoomba.

Dr Ian Stewart
Professional Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business - Human Resources Management, 1995

A career Police Officer with over 40 years of service, Ian Stewart was appointed the 19th Commissioner of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in November 2012. He holds a Master of Public Policy and Administration and a Bachelor of Business qualifications and is a Fellow of both the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) and Australian Institute of Management. He is also a graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Leeda Program. Commissioner Stewart is the recipient of the Australian Fulbright Professional Scholarship, Australian Police Medal, National Emergency Medal, National Police Service Medal, National Medal, Commissioner’s Award for Meritorious Service, Queensland Police Service Medal and the 2010-2011 Queensland Flood and Cyclone Citation and the Queensland Police 150 years Citation.

Andrew (Andy) Coles
International Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering (Agricultural) 1975

Andy Coles has worked on a diverse range of mining and construction projects across Australia and South East Asia for over 35 years. He began his career as an Engineer with QWRC Australia building dams, power stations and embankment works. He then became involved with several major projects funded by key aid agencies, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Australian Development Assistance Bureau in Laos, Thailand and Malaysia. His first project in Indonesia was with Thiess in 1997. He worked on projects in Central Java, South Sulawesi and South Kalimantan, before settling down in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, to establish and expand the company’s Supply Chain Department. 

Amanda Able
Research Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Applied Science, 1994; Bachelor of Applied Science – Honours, 1995; Doctor of Philosophy, 1999

UniSQ alumna Professor Amanda Able is currently the Associate Dean (Undergraduate Experience) for the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Adelaide. She was part of the AgLTAS team which has developed the national Threshold Learning Outcomes (TLOs) for Agriculture and recently endorsed by the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture. Passionate about educating the next generation of scientists, she was awarded the Executive Dean's Excellence in Teaching Award in 2005, the Australian Society of Plant Scientists Teaching Award in 2009 and was the Education and Training Program Leader within the Molecular Plant Breeding CRC from 2003 to 2008.

Caitlyn Gribbin
Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Mass Communication, 2011

Caitlyn Gribbin’s first journalism posting was at the Gribbin Gazette, the newspaper she created at the ripe old age of 10. Deciding ABC Radio was the place for her, Caitlyn abandoned her reader base of more than 40 bemused relatives to pursue her dream. In 2009, she moved to Mount Isa in north-west Queensland as ABC Radio’s rural reporter. This was then followed by stints in Bundaberg, Brisbane and Perth, filing stories for the ABC’s flagship programs including AM, The World Today and PM. The dual Walkley Award winning journalist has since returned to Brisbane and today works for ABC Television's Landline program. 

Louis Liu
Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning, 2011

For more than 30 years, UniSQ alumnus Louis Liu has devoted his spare time to reviving and promoting classical music and choir singing in Malaysia. In 1987, after graduating from his Bachelor’s studies, Louis reformed the Choir Chei-Chih in his hometown of Muar which he lead until 2005 when its increasing popularity spawned four more choirs in the region. He then moved to Batu Pahat where he formed the community’s first choir, the Hui-An Choir. In 2008, he formed the Joyful Choir of the Blind (JCB) which receives high commendation wherever they perform. The Choir has since released their first CD, Songs of Hope.

Priyantha Punchihewa
Chapter Volunteer Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2007

Priyantha Punchihewa is currently the Chief Operating Officer of MIT Cargo (Pvt) Ltd in Sri Lanka. Keen to give back to the institution to which he attributes his success, Priyantha joined the UniSQ Sri Lanka Alumni Chapter soon after graduating. He served as a Committee Member from 2007 to 2010. Then in 2010, Priyantha advanced to the position of Vice President - Continuous Professional Development. In 2011 he served as the Chapter’s General Secretary, before being appointed as President in 2012. During his tenure, Priyantha promoted the Chapter through networking events and workshops and encouraged members to give back to the community through donations to needy institutions such as the Children’s Home in Raddolugama and the Leprosy Hospital.

David Burton
Outstanding & Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Theatre Arts, 2007

David Burton is one of the most distinguished young playwrights and arts advocates in Queensland. Since graduating from UniSQ, he has influenced the theatre arts sector through his writing, editing, directing and advocacy for emerging artists and arts-in-communities across the State. David’s career highlights so far, including writing and producing the highly-acclaimed April’s Fool which was shortlisted for the Premier's Drama Award in 2011, are an incredible achievement for a regional young person. He was also co-director for UniSQ’s 2013 Shakespeare in the Park Festival’s A Winter’s Tale and most recently won the 2014 Text Prize for Young Adult and Children’s Writing for his memoir How to be Happy.

Georges Ulrich
International Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2004; Doctor of Business Administration, 2008

Dr Georges Ulrich may have started out as a humble sales apprenticeship, but it became the first stepping stone to mark a sterling career in statistics and marketing. Fuelling his burning desire to pursue a university education led him not only to receive his Bachelors in Switzerland, but also to study his MBA (2004) and DBA (2009) at UniSQ. Amazingly, Dr Ulrich obtained his Doctorate while working as the Managing Director of GFS Research Institute – one of the most renowned market research institutions in Switzerland. Dr Ulrich is currently is a Professor at the University of Zurich, a lecturer for strategic management and the Director of the Federal Department of Statistics in Switzerland.

Aletha Ward
Professional Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Nursing, 2003

Since graduating UniSQ with a Bachelor of Nursing in 2003, Aletha Ward has made a positive impact on Queensland Health. After becoming Director of Clinical Workforce Planning, she recognised the shortfall of clinical staff (especially in regional areas) and has ensured communities have had access to clinical health and training, resulting in more staff. Aletha also formed the Ipswich & West Moreton Health Pathways Alliance in 2011, which has shown great success in helping 70 students per year in the Ipswich area transition from school to health care. She is also studying her Master of Science at UniSQ with the goal of completing her PhD.

Ricky Mead
Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of General Education Studies, 2008

Ricky Mead has been an active member of the Toowoomba and surrounding districts for over 20 years. He is the Co-director of ACCESS (Australian Community Citizens for Empowering South Sudan), an international charitable organisation that helps educate and assist thousands of people in Australia and South Sudan. With his amazing life story, Ricky has been inspiring and empowering young people across the world and has worked and volunteered at many youth shelters, organisations and charities. Ricky’s projects in South Sudan include a mobile education and training centre, a clinic in the village of Wernyol where he has assisted in training traditional midwifes and locals in emergency child birth, first aid, hygiene practices, waste disposal, wound management and nutrition.

Irene McBride
Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Master of Education, 2007 

Affectionately known as ‘Aunty Rene’, Irene McBride is a proud Butchulla Elder and lives and works on Butchulla Country in Hervey Bay Queensland. After raising her own children as a single mother, Aunty Rene pursued her dream of becoming a school teacher. Successfully obtaining her Education degree in 1986, she went on to become the first Aboriginal teacher at St Michaels Catholic School on Palm Island. Determined to complete a post graduate degree, after 20 years of teaching Aunty Rene finally graduated with her Master of Education from UniSQ in 2007.

Milton Cheng
Chapter Volunteer Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1993

Since becoming the UniSQ Hong Kong Alumni Chapter Chair in 2010, Milton has displayed a very high level of enthusiasm and passion for promoting UniSQ’s Alumni Network in Hong Kong. Before Milton showed interest in a volunteer leadership role, the Hong Kong Alumni Chapter was on the brink of closure. Due to his tireless efforts and leadership, the chapter grew into one of those most active alumni chapters for UniSQ and now boasts more than 80 members.
Over the past four years, Milton and his committee have successfully held and participated in more than 40 alumni social, sporting and networking activities effectively promoting UniSQ in Hong Kong.

Russell Dykstra
Alumnus of the Year | Faculty of Arts 
Diploma of Arts (Creative), 1987

Russell Dykstra is a successful and accomplished actor who has starred in many film, television and theatre productions. His most recent credits include: Film: Oranges and Sunshine (Dan), View from Greehaven Drive (Tim), Hey, Hey it’s Esther Blueburger (Osmond Blueburger) and Romulus My Father (Mitru). Television: Rake (Series 1 and 2 – Barney), Wild Boys (Winston), Spirited (Adam), My Place (Mr Merry) and Theatre: The Addams Family (Fester), Baby Teeth (Gideon) and God of Carnage (Michael). Russell has also received a range of awards for his acting prowess, including the Helpmann and Sydney Theatre Award for Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role for Toy Symphony, an AFI Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actor in Romulus My Father. 

Martin Smith
International Alumnus of the Year 
Bachelor of Business, 1994; Graduate Diploma in Management, 1997; Master of Business Administration, 2002

From UniSQ to the Pentagon! Martin Smith is the Deputy Director of Future Concepts for The Pentagon, presiding over the future operational concepts of the world’s most potent fighting force. Prior to this, Martin worked in various roles for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) including, Managing Director and Strategic Operations Manager. Martin has been responsible for commanding a multi-national force of 600 members, drawn from six countries while securing and sustaining a Forward Operating Base of 6,500 personnel in the middle of a war in Afghanistan.
Martin Smith holds the rank of Wing Commander with the RAAF, and in 2012 was awarded the Australia Day Commendation for Distinguished Service: Outstanding Leadership in Combat. Martin attributes much of his success to the lifeline given to him by UniSQ through the tertiary bridging course that provided him with the confidence to complete his degrees with distinction. 

Tanya Stevenson
Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Science, 2007; Postgraduate Certificate in Education, 2008; Master of Education (8units), 2009

It takes passion, drive, determination, a focused vision and finding your niche in life to succeed. If you have all of this under control before the age of 35, you are doing very well. Tanya Stevenson has worked her way up motivated by her passion for community service to Area Manager of the Wide Bay Burnett Region of UnitingCare Community. Tanya manages 39 staff and counsellors across 16 programs throughout the Wide Bay Burnett Region.

Prior to this, Tanya was Client Services Manager, managing 21 counsellors across 8 counselling programs. Tanya is committed to community service and prior to these key roles, Tanya was also a Youth Support Manager and Coordinator with UnitingCare Community.

To acknowledge her achievements, Tanya was also awarded ‘Young Business Person of the Year’, Fraser Coast, in 2012.

Craig Scroggie
Faculty of Business & Law Alumnus of the Year 
Graduate Certificate in Management, 2001; Postgraduate Diploma of Management, 2008; Master of Business Administration, 2010

When you think ICT, the name that comes to mind is Craig Scroggie, with over 20 years’ experience in the ICT industry. Craig Scroggie is a well-respected and accomplished business man who holds the position of Chief Executive Officer of NEXTDC, an IT service provider located in Brisbane, Queensland.

Prior to joining NEXTDC, Mr Scroggie was Vice President & Managing Director of Symantec in the Pacific region. 

Rachael Jacobs
Faculty of Education Alumnus of the Year 
Master of Education (8units), 2007

Rachael Jacobs is a Lecturer in Creative Arts Education at Australian Catholic University. As part of her role, Rachael has been successful in attaining a number of grants relating to arts education and alternative assessment practices. Her research experience and interests include; creative arts education, performance assessment and assessment in higher education.

Ms Jacobs is an accomplished writer with many publications and conference presentation papers to her name. Since 2008, Rachael has also received several awards for excellence in teaching and innovative approaches to assessment.

Gerard Reiter
Faculty of Engineering & Surveying Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering, 1993

If there is a tricky technical problem to be solved, Gerard Reiter is the man to help solve it. He is the Executive General Manager of Capital Program Delivery for TransGrid, a high voltage network company connecting generators, distributors and major end users in NSW and the ACT. Gerard has been a key contributor to the restructure of the TransGrid business unit from a traditional discipline based business, into an Asset Manager, Service Provider Business.

Gerard has been employed in various Engineering positions throughout Queensland, other areas of Australia, as well as overseas in Germany and Switzerland. Gerard has also won several Powerlink Business Excellence Achievement Awards.

He is the Executive General Manager of Capital Program Delivery for TransGrid and previously employed in various engineering positions throughout Australia and overseas. Gerard has also won several Powerlink Business Excellence achievement awards.

Anthony Leicht
Faculty of Sciences Alumnus of the Year 
Bachelor of Applied Science, 1991; Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours), 1991; Graduate Diploma in Further Education and Training, 1996; Doctor of Philosophy, 1999

James Cook University (JCU), Townsville is fortunate to have star basketball player turned academic, Anthony Leicht as Associate Professor in the Institute of Sport and Exercise Science department.

Anthony’s employment history is broad, commencing as a Research Assistant at UniSQ, followed by Senior Lecturer, Director, Deputy Director and current role, Associate Professor at JCU.

Anthony is also an accomplished researcher and writer, with an extensive list of publications including Theses, internationally recognised journal articles as well as International and National abstracts and conference proceedings.

Mark Willacy
Alumnus of the Year | Faculty of Arts
Bachelor of Arts, 1996

Bureau Chief/North Asia correspondent for ABC TV and Radio, based in Tokyo.

‘The Faculty of Arts really did challenge me to think. That was where I found my intellectual home. It’s truly an honour to receive this award and to be back in my hometown. This award is truly up there with some of the highlights of my career. I am amongst some very talented and esteemed company.’

Khalid Al-Mabrouk Abdalla
International Alumnus of the Year
Doctor of Philosophy; Master of Project Management, 2009

• Executive Vice-Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of the Libyan Government’s Investment Promotion Fund 
• Chairman of the Libyan Investment Holding Company in Africa.
• Master of Business Administration (CQU)
• Graduate Certificate in Management (CQU)
• Master of Accounting (Academy of Postgraduate Studies – Libya)
• Bachelor of Accounting (University of Gar Younis – Libya) 

Katrina Hobbs
Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 2000

• Chief Executive Officer of Eden Farms Family Group.
• Diploma in Corporate Governance, The Australian Institute of Company Directors (scholarship position)
• Diploma in Export Management, Australian Institute of
• CND38 Small Business Course, Open Learning Institute of TAFE

Atalina Enari
Faculty of Business and Law Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1992

• Governor of the Central Bank of Samoa.
• Masters in Science (MSc) in International Economics, Banking and Finance (University of Wales, UK) 
• Bachelor of Law (LLB) (USP) 
• Professional Diploma in Legal Practice (USP)

Victoria Close
Faculty of Education Alumnus of the Year
Master of Education (8units), 2008; Doctor of Philosophy, 2002

• Nursing Student Support Officer at the College for Indigenous Studies, Education and Research (CISER)
• Aboriginal Research (Melbourne University)
• Bachelor of Arts with Distinction (CQU)

Tony Brun
Faculty of Engineering and Surveying Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering, 1994

• Chief Executive Officer of the City of Greater Geraldton in Western Australia 
• Company Directors Diploma, Australian Institute of Company Directors
  Master of Business Administration (Tech Mgt), Deakin University, Victoria 
• Graduate Diploma of (Technology) Management, APESMA/Deakin University, Victoria 

June Henry
Faculty of Sciences Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1979; Doctor of Philosophy, 2005

• Master of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Science (UQ)
• Diploma in Psychology (UQ)
• Medicare Care Registered Clinical Psychologist in her own private practice, Health Journeys Australia, based in Toowoomba.