Rob Macfarlane has provided exceptional support to this University in a number of ways over an extended period of time through six years as a member of the governing Council from 1976 to 1982; lecturing, tutoring and marking from 1990 to 1998; and currently volunteering at the Capricornia Collection, housed in the University's Rockhampton Library, for more than five years.

As well, he has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to public service, where he has served the people of Central Queensland through his membership on Boards, his involvement with Rotary and YWCA, the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society and Aus-aid's Australian Business Volunteers, amongst others.

His passion for local history has resulted in the scholarly and detailed publication of ‘By Any Criterion' - James Stewart & Co, Criterion House, Rockhampton - The History of Rockhampton's Premier Department Store 1862-1986, published in 2007.  This publication has enhanced the historical records of the region and will be a reference point for scholars and researchers for years to come.

Rob's long standing service to CQUniversity Australia, his selfless generosity to the community and his scholarly and detailed research abilities, have demonstrated him to be an exemplar to staff and students of the University.