CQUniversity has celebrated the achievements of its outstanding alumni in their professional field or community service activities, through the inaugural Alumni Awards...

The winners of the Distinguished Alumni, the Young Achiever Alumni and the Volunteer Alumni awards were Ian Coombe (Bachelor of Business, 1986), Chris Shields (Bachelor of Engineering Coop, 2004) and Justin Power (Master of Sustainable Development, 2007).

L-R Ian Coombe, Chris Shields and Justin Power

Development and Alumni Relations Directorate (DARD) Director Suzi Blair said she was pleased with how many staff members engaged with the awards as nominators, nominees or referees.

"We have learned a lot about our alumni by conducting the awards and look forward to showcasing their achievements to grow the University's reputation, and also to engaging closely with the winners," Suzi said.

"We are open to any feedback our colleagues may have that will help the awards be successful - please let us know what you think."

"We particularly want to thank David Beddoe, Tanya Fleming, Andy Bridges, Bronwyn Fredericks, Geoff Higgins, Leone Hinton, En Li, Samara Lovekin, Larelle Fabbro, Melanie Birks, Judith Brown and Kerrie Thompson who all took on the important role of nominators - this demonstration of support for the awards and the CQUni alumni in your networks is much appreciated."

The winners will be officially presented their awards at the Rockhampton campus graduation ceremony in October.

Congratulations to the 2013 Alumni Award Winners:

Ian Coombe

The Distinguished Alumni Award is conferred in recognition of outstanding leadership qualities, and a commitment to excellence.

Citation: Ian has a distinguished career as a Certified Practising Accountant and has also made a significant contribution to regional Queensland, through key leadership positions in the areas of sport, commerce and community service. Ian is currently the Chair of Community Solutions Group - a provider of diversified services and community asset development, with a specific focus on regional Queensland. He has had a long relationship with Central Queensland Rugby Union and is currently chair of this organisation. Ian also played an integral role in establishing and developing the tri-ennial Beef Australia event in Rockhampton. Ian's commitment to sharing his leadership expertise and passion for development has had a significant, positive impact on his communities.

Chris Shields

The Young Achiever Alumni Award is conferred in recognition of significant early-career achievement.

Citation: Chris is an engineer who has been committed to pursuing education and development opportunities since his time as a student. By the age of 26 - only four years after graduating from University, Chris had gained a broad range of experience, sufficient for him to fulfill the requirements to obtain his Chartered Professional Engineer and Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland accreditation.

Chris is a role model for younger staff and an able team member when working with experienced colleagues. Chris' early career achievements are a testament to his active seeking of opportunities to improve his knowledge, skills and networks in his chosen career. 

Justin Power

The Volunteer Alumni Award is conferred in recognition of significant voluntary contributions to CQUniversity and the community.  

Citation: Justin is commended for being an outstanding member of the Central Queensland community. He is Chair of the Diocesan Development Fund committee and the Emmaus College Board, as well as displaying exemplary participation on the CQUniversity Rockhampton Regional Engagement Committee as a member and Chair. In this role, Justin develops networks and actively engages with people across the academic, administrative, student and alumni communities. He is tenacious in pursuing outcomes and his ideas have created improved accessibility to CQUniversity for our communities.