Aussie actor, author and CQUniversity alumnus William McInnes was among a group of distinguished people honoured during the Rockhampton Graduation Ceremony on Tuesday evening (Feb 16)

William was also guest speaker for the event, which recognised 220 graduates. The former Arts student of the early 1980s shared the stage with 3 other honorary awardees: nursing stalwart Norma West OBE, renowned Engineering educator Elizabeth Taylor AO and leading scientist, educator, veterinary administrator and practitioner Oskar Stünzner (also an Alumnus).

Norma West receives her award

Norma became the longest-serving Head of Nursing at Rockhampton Base Hospital, with more than 30 years in the role, and has made outstanding contributions to the nursing profession, as well as being a long-time supporter of the University. LINK HERE for her Companion of the University citation.

Elizabeth is a highly regarded member of the engineering community and is well known throughout Australia for promoting women within the Engineering profession.  LINK HERE for her Emeritus Professor of the University citation Or HERE for the story behind her journey .

Oskar has made outstanding achievements and contributions to the veterinary sector. LINK HERE to his Honorary Master of Science citation.

William is a renowned film and TV actor who has demonstrated how studying at a regional university can help to enable pathways to a successful future in the most competitive of fields. LINK HERE for his Honorary Doctor of Performing Arts citation. LINK HERE for more on William McInnes' background as an author

A graduate of the future perhaps?

This was the first graduation to be held in the CQ Community Sports Centre, since a major refurbishment of the facility and grounds (on Rockhampton Campus). Special preparations for the event involved 2400 carpet tiles, 1450 chairs, 37m of partitions and  a 20m x 55m marquee.

Research Higher Degree graduates - 4 PhDs and 1 Masters candidate - have studied projects as diverse as a wireless nurse call system; the electrostatic precipitator of a coal-fired power plant; the effects of polymicrobial infection; school-based obesity prevention and pressure ulcer guidelines. LINK HERE for more on Research Higher Degree graduates

Long-serving Graduation MC and beadle (mace carrier) Tony Gubbins graduated from a Graduate Diploma in Learning and Teaching degree. LINK HERE for more on Tony Gubbins

Kathryn Greensill delivered a response on behalf of graduates. LINK HERE for more on Kathryn Greensill or LINK HERE for the GRADUATES' RESPONSE.

LINK HERE FOR FACES OF GRADUATION

Capricornia Silver Band supplied ceremonial music and vocalist Paul Tabone* also performed. * LINK HERE for Paul's BIO

CQUniversity's graduation was webcast, with access available via the Graduation LINK at www.cqu.edu.au