Agribusiness innovator receives UniSQ’s highest alumnus honour

From steering the Australian wool industry through its most turbulent years to chairing some of the nation’s most recognised companies, Mac Drysdale has demonstrated leadership that is both visionary and enduring.

The prominent agribusiness innovator, who has strong ties to Toowoomba’s agriculture and education sectors, was recognised as the University of Southern Queensland’s (UniSQ) Alumnus of the Year at the UniSQ Alumni Awards in Brisbane on Thursday (23 October).

The awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of UniSQ graduates who have made a meaningful impact in their careers, industries, or communities.

Mr Drysdale, who also received the Alumnus Award for Leadership and Professional Excellence, said he was honoured to be recognised for his contributions to industry and community.

“I’m very proud, and when you look at the calibre of the finalists across all three categories – the quality of the younger people and those involved in community work – it’s just marvellous to be considered part of that group,” he said.

“There are so many outstanding people, and UniSQ can be very proud of the graduates it has produced.”

A nationally respected leader, Mr Drysdale has built a remarkable career spanning agriculture, corporate governance, education and community development – all while staying deeply connected to his roots at Perola Park, his family property near Augathella.

Since graduating from UniSQ (then the Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education) in 1975 with a business degree, he has become a leading figure in Australian agribusiness.

He rose to prominence in the wool industry, chairing the Australian Wool Corporation and the International Wool Secretariat during a time of global change.

His leadership extended well beyond agriculture, guiding companies such as Country Road Australia, Mitre 10, and Seymour Whyte through major growth and transformation.

Today, Mr Drysdale continues to lend his expertise to enterprises across the agriculture, construction and finance sectors, while also chairing several not-for-profit organisations.

From wool sheds to boardrooms, his journey is grounded in the same values that shaped him as a UniSQ student – connection, community and lifelong learning.

“At the end of the day, it comes back to connections – our lives are all about relationships,” Mr Drysdale said.

“It’s been 50 years since I graduated, and the group I studied with has formed very close bonds – most of us still catch up every year.

“I think that says a lot about the institution we went to. We didn’t just go there, get a degree, and forget where we came from.

“We’ve kept in touch over the years – and you don’t do that unless you’ve built strong connections, met great people, and had wonderful mentors.

“As a company director, understanding human resources, being open-minded, analysing situations without jumping to conclusions, and appreciating different perspectives are all essential to running a successful business.

“They’re lessons I learnt at UniSQ.”

UniSQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen Nelson said the annual awards shine a spotlight on the achievements and contributions of the University’s alumni community, honouring those who drive excellence, inspire change, and make a lasting difference in their fields and communities.

“Each recipient shows how UniSQ alumni continue to transform lives and communities through their passion and purpose,” Professor Nelson said.

UniSQ has more than 120,000 alumni across 140 countries.

Mr Drysdale was one of three graduates recognised in this year’s UniSQ Alumni Awards.

Ipswich Jets rugby league player Nikki Cox claimed the Alumnus Award for Community Impact. Artist and activist Dr Ally Zlatar was awarded Young Alumnus of the Year.