Outstanding achievements honoured at 2025 Alumni Awards

Celebrating our inspiring graduates is always one of the highlights of the year, and our 2025 UniSQ Alumni Awards (23 October) was no exception as stories of impact and innovation filled the room.

In a special full-circle moment, the event was hosted by Jessica van Vonderen – one of Australia’s most respected journalists and a proud alumnus.

Three graduates were recognised for their leadership, creativity, and community impact.

Agribusiness innovator KM (Mac) Drysdale was named 2025 Alumnus of the Year, honouring his extraordinary career and dedication to advancing sustainable practices and shaping the future of regional economies. He also received the Alumni Award for Leadership & Professional Excellence.

Artist and activist Dr Ally Zlatar was awarded the Young Alumnus of the Year in recognition of her humanitarian work, mental health advocacy, and focus on art-based healing for people living with eating disorders.

Ipswich Jets rugby league player and teacher Nikki Cox received the Alumni Award for Community Impact for her work mentoring young athletes, building local pathways for girls in rugby league, and inspiring the next generation to pursue their goals.

The award winners were joined by their families, fellow finalists and proud members of our UniSQ community.

The evening was a powerful reminder of how UniSQ graduates continue to shape communities, industries, and lives across the globe.

2025 Alumnus of the Year

KM (Mac) Drysdale

2025 Alumni Award for Leadership & Professional Excellence

KM (Mac) Drysdale

Finalists: KM (Mac) Drysdale, Christopher Black, Jessica Narbey, Dr Farina Riaz, Dr Ansmarie Van Erp.

2025 Young Alumnus of the Year

Dr Ally Zlatar

Finalists: Dr Ally Zlatar, Brent McKnoulty, Michaila MacAskill.

2025 Alumni Award for Community Impact

Nikki Cox

Finalists: Nikki Cox, Rachael Carter, Lauren Gribble, Mark Smith, Shaun Staunton.