Alumnus of the Year Award Winners

Dr Anne-Maree Nielsen

Outstanding Alumnus of the Year | Indigenous Alumnus of the Year

 

Master of Nursing Honours, 2010; Master of Mental Health Nursing, 2008; Bachelor of Nursing, 2004

Dr Anne-Maree Nielsen is a proud Wakka Wakka woman of Queensland’s South Burnett Region with associations to the Barkindji Nations in the Darling River Basin Region, Western New South Wales. She is passionate about improving the health and wellbeing for people in the Indigenous community and has highlighted the importance of community health prevention resolutions to ensure long term health. As such, most of her career has been focussed on Indigenous healthcare in capacities of both a researcher and registered nurse. Anne has experience in various positions at the Royal Darwin Hospital including as a Surgical Intern, Renal Intern, Medical Intern and Orthopaedic Intern. Currently, she is the Resident Medical Officer in the Acute Mental Health Unit at Toowoomba Hospital. In addition, she has recently been accepted by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and will be commencing her journey to become a GP. Anne's extensive involvement within this area of medicine has also resulted in her contribution to several research papers and her membership in the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association (AIDA).

Dr Jessa Rogers

Young Alumnus of the Year Award 

 

Master of Education, 2014

 

 

Dr Jessa Rogers’ heart for the community and influential nature has paved the way for bettering Indigenous education. Jessa graduated from USQ in 2014 with a Master of Education. Since then she has held school-based teaching positions, professional memberships and academic positions, including her current position as the Project Director, Indigenous Research and Education Strategy at the University of New England. In her previous capacity as Assistant Professor at the University of Canberra, Jessa wrote two new Indigenous units to be included as compulsory units in both primary and secondary degrees to close the gap. Earlier in her career she was the inaugural principal of Australia’s first boarding school for Indigenous teenage mothers – the Cape York Girl Academy. Jessa’s contribution to many academic publications, articles, reports and conference papers has not gone unnoticed and she has won numerous awards, including a Fulbright scholarship which saw her based at Harvard University in the Native American Program. Jessa is a member of the a Federal Expert Committee on English Language Learning for Indigenous Children (ELLIC).

Stacey Burrell

Highly Commended Young Alumnus of the Year

 

Master of Business Administration, 2015; Bachelor of Business (with distinction), 2011

 

Graduating from USQ with a Bachelor of Business and Master of Business Administration, Stacey Burrell has been a stable and significant force at Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE). Being employed by TSBE within six months of its creation, Stacey has never wasted an opportunity. She started as the Marketing and Membership Manager before moving to Executive Officer for several years. Stacey’s strong work ethic and professional nature makes her a highly valued employee which saw her take an opportunity as Acting CEO early in 2018 alongside her current position as the Chief Operating Officer. In addition, Stacey contributes much of her time with the community. She is the Chairman and Director of not for profit business, Ability Enterprises which provides employment opportunities to people facing employment barriers. She is also a Director of the USQ Student Guild, committee member of the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland and has been a long-term volunteer in both the Pyjama Foundation and her local Toastmasters committee.

Heidi Dugan

International Alumnus of the Year

 

Bachelor of Arts (Creative), 1994

Heidi graduated from USQ in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts (Creative) before going to Japan on a scholarship. Determined to gain experience and improve her career she then moved to China and studied international trade. Heidi has had extensive experience in the TV and media industry including as one of the first foreign TV hosts on Chinese television, an emcee, TV presenter and judge. Commended for her work, Heidi has been awarded Best Foreign TV Host and Most Popular Foreign TV Host on the International Channel of Shanghai. Over 17 years ago she launched her very popular cooking show You Are The Chef which has been awarded the Best Foreign Language Program two years in a row. Her abundance of skills and knowledge from both Australia and China has also allowed Heidi to assist companies enter the China market. In addition, Heidi has published a cookbook titled Follow Me and Learn to Cook Like a 5 Star Chef.

Chia Yoong Hui 

Highly Commended International Alumnus of the Year 

 

Master of Business Administration, 2005

 

 

Chia Yoong Hui is a well-respected and successful entrepreneur. He is founder, chairman and CEO of Ascenz Pte Ltd, Asia’s leading provider in vessel management, established in Singapore in 2008. The company is well known for its award-winning Shipulse solutions which can be used by clients to optimise vessel performance. His effective communication skills, insight and innovative skills makes him popular amongst business partners and clients. Last year Yoong Hui was awarded the EY Entrepreneur of the Year - Maritime Technology Solutions. Yoong Hui further uses his experience and passion for lifelong learning to mentor ambitious entrepreneurs. In 2017 he had the privilege of having his success story shared by the minister during her speech in parliament. Yoong Hui has been awarded the Enterprise 50 Award in 2017 and 2016, SME 1000 – Emerging Company in 2017, Emerging Enterprise Award in 2012, National Infocomm Award in 2010 and the Minister’s Innovation Award in 2009. In addition, Yoong Hui is an advisory council member of the Australian Alumni Singapore Council of Advisors and was also the founding Chairman for the USQ Singapore Alumni Chapter where he was at the helm for five years. 

 

Hoa Cruickshank

Alumni Service Award

 

Master of Learning and Development, 2016; Master of Education (with distinction), 2014

 

 

Hoa Cruickshank is passionate about learning and teaching. After obtaining an array of certificates and academic qualifications from various universities and institutions, three years ago Hoa established an English Language School which uses the application of an iPad with IQ Board in Second Language Learning and Teaching. Today the school has more than 120 students. She is currently Managing Director of Vung Tau E-School, a private language center in Vung Tau, Vietnam and Managing Director of Phuc Gia Trading and Tourism Limited Company. During her time at USQ Hoa would always engage in extracurricular activities and has contributed to the Vietnamese enrolment with USQ, promoting it among her networks. She was one of the founding members of USQ’s Vietnam Alumni Chapter where she remains as Treasurer and regularly organises and attends events.

 

Professor Michael Kimlin

Research/Academic Alumnus of the Year

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of Southern Queensland, 2001; Graduate Diploma of Further Education and Training, 1999; Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc), Biological and Physical Sciences, 1996

Professor Michael Kimlin has made many extraordinary contributions to cancer research throughout his stellar career. Michael is a world renowned radiation epidemiologist who specialises in ultraviolet radiation and human health outcomes. He is currently the Foundation Professorial Chair in the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) and Professorial Chair at Cancer Council Queensland (CCQ). He is also a current member of many review panels including his position as the Chair of the NHRMC Partnership review panel. In 2004, he established the AusSun Research Laboratory at QUT which has received global recognition. Over the past seven years Michael has successfully supervised students to completion; 4 Masters and 13 PhD. In addition, he has more than 175 publications, some of which are included in leading journals including the American Journal of Epidemiology. He has received over $19 million in grants to fund numerous agencies worldwide and has received invitations to be a keynote speaker at many national and international events. Michael has been fortunate to be a recipient of the prestigious Top Ten Paper of the Year Award for the American Journal of Epidemiology 2014.

 

Rachel Ranton 

Professional Alumnus of the Year

 

Master of Business Administration, 2016; Postgraduate Certificate in Business, 2013

 

2018 Veteran Employee of the Year Rachel Ranton continues to use her military skills of leadership, decisiveness and enthusiasm to learn and lead change within the workplace. Currently an Inclusion and Diversity Consultant with Westpac Group, her passion for inclusiveness shines through her prominent role in many programs across the organisation. The Autism Hiring Program – Tailored Talent was executed in response to Rachel’s extensive research and thorough recommendations into how best to encourage and support people on the Autism Spectrum and their careers. In addition, Rachel’s involvement in the Veterans Hiring Initiative, Inclusive Leadership Training (ILEAD) and Women of Influence Awards has not gone unrecognised. Last year, Rachel presented a TED Talk discussing the importance of group dynamics and leadership through which she applied both her corporate and military experience.

Direpang Segosebe 

Community Service Alumnus of the Year

 

Bachelor of Nursing, 2010

Ms Direpang Segosebe is a role model in Botswana, Southern Africa where she resides as a Nursing Officer/Administrator within the Greater Gaborone District Health Management Team (DHMT). After graduating from USQ in 2010 with a Bachelor of Nursing, Direpang continues to impress. Focussing on the less privileged population of Botswana including the elderly, disadvantaged children and street youth, her achievements have improved the health and wellbeing of the community in Botswana. She has successfully advocated the dangers of road use for pedestrians and in 2016 saw the implementation of speed bumps in areas with heavy foot traffic. In a response to Direpang’s health awareness programs, underprivileged community members are also provided with free access to health care services including screening for TB, diabetes, blood pressure, HIV testing and eye tests. In 2017, she was awarded a service star by Consumer Watchdog Botswana for exceptional customer service and regularly appears in newspapers where she is referred to as a Florence Nightingale figure, a result of her exceptional contribution to her community.

Kevin Wilson 

Highly Commended Community Service Alumnus of the Year

 

Master of Professional Accounting, 2016; Master of Business Administration, 2007; Bachelor of Business, 2004

Kevin Wilson’s outstanding involvement with his community earns him the respect of everyone he meets. Graduating from USQ with two masters and a bachelor degree, Kevin has progressed quickly in his career from a small business proprietor early on to his second CEO position at The Crommelin Group. When he’s not at work or with his family, Kevin is President of the City of Perth Triathlon Club, Treasurer of Gridiron West, Hall of Fame Member of Gridiron QLD, Communications Director of Gridiron Australia, Coaching Director of Perth Blitz Gridiron Club and Head Coach for many community teams. Earlier this year he helped form Women’s football, providing around 150 females with access to football in Western Australia. In addition, Kevin was a mentor within the USQ Mentoring Program for a few years and continues to regularly mentor others in his community.

 

Dr Kevin 'Kev' Carmody 

Outstanding Alumnus of the Year | Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1980

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Dr Kevin 'Kev' Carmody's transition from rural back country labourer to industry icon was not an expected one for him – only when he got the chance to study at USQ, which in the late 1970’s was under the moniker of the Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education did he begin to embrace his talent. Through his studies he eventually progressed to working on his PhD, the history of the Darling Downs between 1830-1860. Kev’s background and love for his culture was best displayed here, where he used music and oral tradition to voice his passions. The rest was history – Kev’s career was that of a touring singer/songwriter, performer, fundraisers, university campuses and Aboriginal music festivals. His seven studio albums contain songs designed to promote awareness and understanding of Indigenous culture and perhaps his most well-known song, ‘From little things big things grow’ is considered a prominent song for change. His contribution to Australia’s musical culture has been recognised with a number of industry awards including the 1993 Country Music Association of Australia Heritage Award, 2009 Queensland Great Award, as well as being an ARIA Hall of Fame inductee.

Air Marshall (Rtd) Geoff Brown, AO

Highly Commended Professional Alumnus 
Bachelor of Engineering, 1979

Geoff Brown's stellar military career in serving Australia began when he joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1980. After 11 years of serving as a pilot and an instructor, Geoff rose from various leadership positions before culminating in Chief of the Air Force, Air Marshal, a position where he proudly remained from 2011-2015. As Air Marshal, he had the immense responsibility of organising projects worth up to $3.5 billion dollars and was tasked with strategizing and developing plans and projects as well as influencing and interacting with the government and stakeholders. Geoff made the effort to ensure the future air force would be fully equipped with technology and equipment, ordering and commissioning over 150 new aircraft while also reducing expenditure and the Air Force’s Sustainment budget by $200 million per year. Geoff was also a leading champion for organisational change in the areas of recruitment and training, gender and cultural equality and safety and technology. For his service he has been given the title of Officer of the Order of Australia. Today, Geoff continues to collaborate with and advise government leaders and international stakeholders as Director of the Williams Foundation and Mentor at the Centre for Strategic Defence Studies.

Dr Tracey Brickell

Research/Academic Alumnus of the Year
Master of Psychology, 2000; Doctor of Psychology, 2003

Dr. Tracey Brickell is a Senior Scientist and Scientific Director for the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), Maryland, USA. She is also a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Maryland, USA. Dr. Brickell has published more than 39 manuscripts, 100 abstracts, and 120 conference presentations. Dr. Brickell is currently responsible for the scientific direction of two nationwide (U.S.), multi-site, 15-Year longitudinal traumatic brain injury research projects that are part of a mandate by the U.S. Congress. The studies examine outcome from traumatic brain injury incurred by service members and veterans during deployment to the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the long-term effect of traumatic brain injury on the service member’s family. The studies are funded at more than USD $45-million and supported by over 40 research support staff.

Brett Cumming

Highly Commended Research/Academic Alumnus
Master of Applied Linguistics, 2010; Master of Education, 2013; Master of Education (TESOL), 2016

Following his graduation from USQ’s Master Degree in Applied Linguistics, Brett Cumming has since spent his time devoted to teaching others, both domestically and overseas. He worked full-time as an Associate Professor at a Japanese Prefectural University for five years, while also performing other lecturing, administrative and research duties. Continuing his passion for educating others, Brett wrote 12 published papers and numerous book reviews, co-authored two textbooks and presented at international Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) conferences, while writing regular newspaper columns on bilingualism for overseas publications. Brett has received a Master of Education and a Master of TESOL, both from USQ, and completed the coursework for a Doctorate of Education, with a focus on writing in a second language. His dozens of academic publications and public speaking roles in both English and Japanese show his dedication to education, many of them focused on the barriers of bilingualism and career development through TESOL. Currently he works as an examiner and language instructor at Griffith University’s English Language Institute and as a lecturer at Griffith College, both based on the Gold Coast.

Shane Elson

International Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering Technology, 2001

Shane Elson’s career in Engineering began in 1994 and continued when he graduated from USQ with a Bachelor degree in Engineering Technology in 2000. Since then, his 20 years in both private and government engineering offices gave him the skills he needed to uproot his life in Australia and move to Indonesia with his family, starting his own engineering consultancy, Innovative Solutions Indonesia, as well as a locally based non-profit in South Kalimantan. Living onsite, Shane partnered with local professionals and employed local staff in order to help those in greatest need in isolated rural villages. Providing clean and affordable drinking water, public health education while continuing to develop a sanitation solution, Shane was motivated by both his passion for engineering and his high value of the human life founded in his faith in Christ. Overcoming the struggles of language and culture, Shane helped to establish a clean drinking water program for seven villages (as of July 2017) in order to provide non-contaminated, affordable water and drastically lower mortality rates. He received the Technologist of the Year in 2016 by Engineers Australia at both the Queensland state and Australian national level. Shane will receive his second Master degree, his first from USQ, in 2017.

David Fairman

Highly Commended International Alumnus
Master of Project Management, 2007; Master of Business Administration, 2009

David Fairman is the Chief Information Security Officer for the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). In this role he is responsible for the strategy, oversight and governance for Information Security and Cyber Security globally across RBC. Prior to joining RBC, David was with JP Morgan Chase & Co holding the positions of Deputy Technology Controls Officer and Global Head of Technology Risk and Control Practices. Prior to JPMC, David was with RBS, holding several roles including CISO RBS Americas and Head of Information Security EMEA. In his tenure at RBS, he lived and worked in the UK, The Netherlands and the USA. David was raised and educated in Australia where he received his B.S. in Software Engineering and Computer Science. He then completed two Masters, one in Business Administration and the second in Project Management. David began his career in Information Security while serving in the Royal Australian Air Force’s Electronic Warfare and Communications group where he gained valuable experience in the technology, policy and process aspects of security and risk management. Subsequently, David worked in a variety of roles ranging from security architect, engineering, operations and consultant, mainly in the Utilities and Financial Services industries. In 2015, David was named as one of the Top 10 CISOs to know, and in 2016 was published as a co-author of ‘Cyber Risk’ by publisher Risk Books.

Michael Hayes

Professional Alumnus of the Year
Master of Professional Studies, 2012

Michael’s passion and love for all things wine is evident in his vast 37 year experience in the industry, which includes consulting, education and vineyard design. Although he graduated from USQ in 2012 with a Master of Professional Studies (Viticulture), his talent has been put to expert use since 1999, where he still works with Symphony Hill Wines. Since 2007, he has also been engaged with the Queensland College of Wine and Tourism (QCWT). Michael is a contract wine maker for 15 other wineries and has helped train many other students in viticulture and winemaking. As one of the Granite Belt’s premier wine makers, he has received the Samuel Bassett Award in 2014 for “A significant contribution by an individual to the Queensland Wine Industry”. Michael’s national impact has been recognised through the Churchill Fellowship he received in 2012 which allowed him to research 50 European Wine Regions and integrate those findings into his “Vineyard for the Future” project at QCWT which will provide over 100 alternative wine grape varieties throughout Queensland to be trialled. In addition to his slew of accolades and experiences internationally and domestically in the industry, Michael has designed and implemented at least 100 vineyards throughout Queensland and New South Wales, and has received over 95 Gold Medals and 76 trophies in the past decade alone. Currently involved in researching lower alcohol wines for the changing Australian cuisine and designing alternative variety vineyards around Australia, Mike consults on 33 vineyards and 15 wineries at present and is involved in mentoring new industry employees and enthusiasts.

Mayor Mark Jamieson

Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1996

Since his graduation from USQ in 1996, Mark Jamieson has been actively involved in shaping stronger regional communities through his leadership roles in both the public and private sector. Following over two decades in senior roles in media and publishing, Mark was appointed Chief Executive of APN Australian Publishing in 2006, where he was accountable for over $1 billion of newspaper assets. Mark was first elected in 2012 as Mayor of the Sunshine Coast Council. As Mayor, Mark is leading a progressive agenda which has at its heart creating opportunity for residents and communities. Under Mark’s leadership, the Sunshine Coast Council is driving an innovative economic development strategy which is focused on improving employment options and building income levels for the residents of the Sunshine Coast. Mark’s drive and passion to deliver a stronger future for his community is evident in the results the Sunshine Coast is now achieving - the region has been rated as having the second strongest performing economy in Queensland; unemployment rates have been lowered by more than half what they were when Mark was first elected; household income levels are now close to the State average; and the region has achieved national recognition for several of its environmental programs. Mark actively supports a number of not for profit organisations including domestic-abuse prevention organisation White Ribbon, Sunnykids, Surf Life Saving Queensland and the Beacon Foundation which assists in providing youth education and employment opportunities.

Allysha Jensen

Highly Commended Community Service Alumnus
Bachelor of Nursing, 2013

Allysha has dedicated her life to assisting others and helping the community around her, both in Australia and overseas, including several third world countries. She has visited Nepal eight times in order to provide support and work with the Children’s Welfare Centre. During one of her trips to Kathmandu in 2015, she arrived just three days before an earthquake devastated the city, and although she was given the chance to be flown home, she chose to stay and help relief workers rebuild, including providing food and shelters, co-funding a pop-up organisation in order to provide care and schools for those affected. Additionally, she lived in slum communities in Kolkata in order to learn about the people and educate women about their rights, assisted servants in India and worked in a palliative care hospital. In Australia, she works with a number of communities including the Waiters’ Union and Catholic Worker Movement. She is currently studying for her graduate Bachelor’s Degree in Midwifery.

Suresh Muttiah

Chapter Volunteer Alumnus of the Year
Postgraduate Certificate in Business, 2010; Master of Business Administration, 2011

Suresh Muttiah commenced his role as the Chapter President in 2016, at a time when the Chapter was in need of strong direction and leadership in order to re-engage members. He has worked tirelessly to reconnect members to the USQ Alumni Relations Office and as a result the chapter now regularly holds both social and professional development events to keep its members engaged. His enthusiasm and passion for the chapter has resulted in establishing close ties with the Institute of Chartered Account Sri Lanka (ICASL), a partner institution where many Sri Lanka-based alumni study. Suresh has actively sought the help of both the USQ Alumni Relations Office as well as ICASL to grow the membership and take advantage of all social and professional development opportunities that are available. His dedication to ensuring the chapter has a significant presence at the ICASL graduation ceremonies is key in securing further membership.

Cara-Ann Simpson

Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Visual Arts, 2008; Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours), 2009

Since 2008, Cara’s Bachelor of Visual Arts degree has led her to produce a lifetime’s worth of work while inspiring others to do the same. Cara’s artistic and community endeavours have been hampered by health concerns, but this has only strengthened her resolve to produce as much work as possible. In 2010 she learned she had a benign brain lesion, and a few weeks later she was electrocuted accidentally, which caused heart complications and further lesions, resulting in a constant migraine condition. Regardless, she has persevered in her love of art. Traveling internationally, she has spoken at conferences while collaborating and exhibiting installations, including a solo exhibition in Seattle. During this period she reached Anthill’s 30under30 award for outstanding entrepreneurial endeavours for her art practice among young Australians. Taking on the role of Executive Co-Director at Electrofringe, a non-profit arts organisation during 2011-2013, Cara curated and produced a five-day festival with a visitation of over 15 000 people. She was involved in the Regional Arts Initiative which included touring exhibitions, concerts and professional development courses. Cara was also Curator and Acting Manager at Bundoora Homestead Art Centre, a public art gallery that saw a 35 per cent visitation increase through marketing and high quality exhibitions. She currently works at Cruden Farm, the renowned estate of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch.

Penelope Twemlow

Highly Commended Young Alumnus
Master of Project Management and Master of Business Administration, 2010

Penelope Twemlow has made a name for herself in several fields due to her professionalism, skills and advocating for women’s advancement in male-dominated fields. Her career covers a vast array of positions from serving in the Royal Australian Navy for 10 years to holding positions including General Manager, Director and Chief Executive Officer in various managerial roles. She holds 17 years’ experience in both public and private sectors. Penelope is the Founder and Chairperson of Women in Power, an organisation whose mission it is to advance the roles of women in Electrotechnology industries. She also holds the role of Chair of the Queensland Government’s Electrical Safety Education Committee and volunteers with Team Rubicon, which combines the skills of experienced military personnel with first responders in order to deploy emergency response teams as rapidly as possible. Penelope is also an Ambassador for White Ribbon to prevent domestic violence, Beyond Blue for mental health, and empowering women through the YWCA. She aims to provide support and raise funds for the homeless and assisting services for veterans who have returned from duty. Of her many accolades, she is the winner of the 2016 Queensland Telstra Business Women’s Award for Social Enterprise and Not-For-Profit, as well as the 2016 APAC CEO of the Year.

Sharon Boyce

Outstanding Alumnus of the Year | Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1990; Graduate Diploma in Further Education and Training, 1993 Master of Education – Honours, 1997

Sharon Boyce is a true example of what can be achieved with a determined attitude. Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at 11, Sharon is confined to an electric wheelchair, but has not let her circumstances stop her from attaining her personal, career and community goals. Sharon has written a children’s book to help kids learn about physical disability, she is involved in a number of local and state networks and organisations, and she developed Discovering DisAbility and Diversity – a first-of-its-kind experiential disability awareness program that travels around the region informing the community about people’s differences and how to celebrate them.

David Fagan

Professional Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts, 1978

For more than a decade David Fagan acted as the voice of, and for, Queensland through his leadership and editorship of The Courier-Mail. He also led media company, News Corp’s 41 state mastheads through the transition from print to multimedia publishing, during which time he had an editorial staff of more than 700 people and a budget of AUD$70 million. David now applies those formative skills at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), as Director of Corporate Transition. He is also a Director of Carers’ Queensland, a Deputy State Australian Republican Movement (ARM) Convenor and an Australian Press Council Adjudicator. David prides himself on his role in developing news and media products that better told the story of everyday Queenslanders.

Sean Ryan

International Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 1999

United Kingdom-based astronomer Professor Sean Ryan has worked in observatories in Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, where he worked with the Hubble Space Telescope. Sean is a Professor of Astrophysics and is currently the Head of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the UK’s Higher Education Academy. His research studies the formation of elements across cosmic history and focuses on the birth of the Milky Way and the discovery of its oldest stars. 

Rael Lange

Research/Academic Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Applied Science, 1994; Graduate Diploma of Applied Science, 1996; Doctor of Philosophy, 2000

Dr Rael Lange is an award-winning researcher in the field of clinical neuropsychology, in both civilian and military settings, at a national and international level. He is currently the Research Director and Senior Scientist for the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland, USA. Rael also serves as the Scientific Director for a large-scale congressionally mandated study into the outcomes of traumatic brain injury within the first 15 years of injury. For the past 16 years he has been an active clinical researcher and has published more than 119 peer reviewed papers and book chapters, 172 published abstracts, and 232 conference presentations. He is currently responsible for a national program of research (USA) funded at more than USD$45 million.

Abdulkarim Al Zarouni

Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 2010

Abdulkarim Al Zarouni is an enterprising 29-year-old. He is an award-winning, Key Account Manager at Dubai International Airport where he has been recognised for his contribution to the implementation of new safety practices and improving work performance within various departments across airport operations. Abdulkarim is an entrepreneur, having launched several businesses under the banner of Al Zarouni Sons Group. He is a real estate consultant who has won awards for his innovative ideas and passion relating to the United Arab Emirates property environment. Lastly, but certainly not least, Abdulkarim is a humanitarian aid volunteer who has worked with several international aid organisation such as Doctors Without Borders and IIRO in Africa and at the Syrian-Lebanese border, and with other Dubai-based not-for-profit groups whose goals are to support local causes.

Odette Best

Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Doctor of Philosophy, 2012

Dr Odette Best is an Aboriginal woman who has had a long and distinguished career as a Registered Nurse, an academic and an historian of Aboriginal nurses and midwives. Her PhD, titled Yatdjuligin: The Stories of Queensland Aboriginal Nurses 1950-2005, explored the journey of six Aboriginal Registered Nurses across six decades. Odette has been acknowledged for her work through a Churchill Fellowship in 2002 and an International Council of Nursing Fellowship in 2009. She was also awarded the 2015 Tertiary Teaching and Learning Award from the Australian Educational Publishing Awards for her textbook Yatdjuligin: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nursing and Midwifery Care. She is committed to primary health care within Aboriginal health, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) and women’s health services.

Johnny Hung

Chapter Volunteer of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1992

Johnny Hung is a Hong Kong Practising Accountant and Chartered Secretary, and the owner of M.H.Hung & Co, a Hong Kong-based accounting firm. He is also the current Chair of the USQ Graduates Society Hong Kong Alumni Chapter and was the driving force behind the chapter’s restructure in 2010 and its subsequent growth and success. Over the last six years, Johnny has worked tirelessly to strengthen the chapter’s ties to USQ and its relationships with local businesses and industry. After serving as Vice-Chair for four years, Johnny was unanimously elected as Chair in 2014, with his platform of passion for promoting and fostering fellowship among USQ alumni living and working in Hong Kong. Chapter members meet regularly for social, volunteer and professional events.

Maree Toombs

Outstanding Alumnus of the Year & Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year 
Bachelor of Education (Primary) 1999; Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning, 2007; Doctor of Philosophy, 2011

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Maree Toombs is a proud Kamilaroi/Kooma woman from Goodooga in north western New South Wales who grew up surrounded by strong family members who contributed to the struggle for Aboriginal Rights. Maree was the first Aboriginal person to be awarded a PhD from USQ. She has more than 13 years’ experience teaching and developing curriculum with an Indigenous perspective both in education and health. In 2010, Maree was appointed Director of Indigenous Health at the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine. She is also a member of the Expert Advisory Committee for Indigenous Health to the Medical Deans of Australia and New Zealand and the current Chairperson of Carbal Aboriginal Medical Centre in Toowoomba.

Ian Stewart

Professional Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business - Human Resources Management, 1995

A career Police Officer with over 40 years of service, Ian Stewart was appointed the 19th Commissioner of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in November 2012. He holds a Master of Public Policy and Administration and a Bachelor of Business qualifications and is a Fellow of both the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) and Australian Institute of Management. He is also a graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Leeda Program. Commissioner Stewart is the recipient of the Australian Fulbright Professional Scholarship, Australian Police Medal, National Emergency Medal, National Police Service Medal, National Medal, Commissioner’s Award for Meritorious Service, Queensland Police Service Medal and the 2010-2011 Queensland Flood and Cyclone Citation and the Queensland Police 150 years Citation.

Andrew (Andy) Coles

International Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering (Agricultural) 1975

Andy Coles has worked on a diverse range of mining and construction projects across Australia and South East Asia for over 35 years. He began his career as an Engineer with QWRC Australia building dams, power stations and embankment works. He then became involved with several major projects funded by key aid agencies, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Australian Development Assistance Bureau in Laos, Thailand and Malaysia. His first project in Indonesia was with Thiess in 1997. He worked on projects in Central Java, South Sulawesi and South Kalimantan, before settling down in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, to establish and expand the company’s Supply Chain Department. 

Amanda Able

Research Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Applied Science, 1994; Bachelor of Applied Science – Honours, 1995; Doctor of Philosophy, 1999

USQ alumna Professor Amanda Able is currently the Associate Dean (Undergraduate Experience) for the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Adelaide. She was part of the AgLTAS team which has developed the national Threshold Learning Outcomes (TLOs) for Agriculture and recently endorsed by the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture. Passionate about educating the next generation of scientists, she was awarded the Executive Dean's Excellence in Teaching Award in 2005, the Australian Society of Plant Scientists Teaching Award in 2009 and was the Education and Training Program Leader within the Molecular Plant Breeding CRC from 2003 to 2008.

Caitlyn Gribbin

Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Mass Communication, 2011

Caitlyn Gribbin’s first journalism posting was at the Gribbin Gazette, the newspaper she created at the ripe old age of 10. Deciding ABC Radio was the place for her, Caitlyn abandoned her reader base of more than 40 bemused relatives to pursue her dream. In 2009, she moved to Mount Isa in north-west Queensland as ABC Radio’s rural reporter. This was then followed by stints in Bundaberg, Brisbane and Perth, filing stories for the ABC’s flagship programs including AM, The World Today and PM. The dual Walkley Award winning journalist has since returned to Brisbane and today works for ABC Television's Landline program. 

Louis Liu

Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning, 2011

For more than 30 years, USQ alumnus Louis Liu has devoted his spare time to reviving and promoting classical music and choir singing in Malaysia. In 1987, after graduating from his Bachelor’s studies, Louis reformed the Choir Chei-Chih in his hometown of Muar which he lead until 2005 when its increasing popularity spawned four more choirs in the region. He then moved to Batu Pahat where he formed the community’s first choir, the Hui-An Choir. In 2008, he formed the Joyful Choir of the Blind (JCB) which receives high commendation wherever they perform. The Choir has since released their first CD, Songs of Hope.

Priyantha Punchihewa

Chapter Volunteer Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2007

Priyantha Punchihewa is currently the Chief Operating Officer of MIT Cargo (Pvt) Ltd in Sri Lanka. Keen to give back to the institution to which he attributes his success, Priyantha joined the USQ Sri Lanka Alumni Chapter soon after graduating. He served as a Committee Member from 2007 to 2010. Then in 2010, Priyantha advanced to the position of Vice President - Continuous Professional Development. In 2011 he served as the Chapter’s General Secretary, before being appointed as President in 2012. During his tenure, Priyantha promoted the Chapter through networking events and workshops and encouraged members to give back to the community through donations to needy institutions such as the Children’s Home in Raddolugama and the Leprosy Hospital.

David Burton

Outstanding & Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Theatre Arts, 2007

David Burton is one of the most distinguished young playwrights and arts advocates in Queensland. Since graduating from USQ, he has influenced the theatre arts sector through his writing, editing, directing and advocacy for emerging artists and arts-in-communities across the State. David’s career highlights so far, including writing and producing the highly-acclaimed April’s Fool which was shortlisted for the Premier's Drama Award in 2011, are an incredible achievement for a regional young person. He was also co-director for USQ’s 2013 Shakespeare in the Park Festival’s A Winter’s Tale and most recently won the 2014 Text Prize for Young Adult and Children’s Writing for his memoir How to be Happy.

Georges Ulrich 

International Alumnus of the Year
Master of Business Administration, 2004; Doctor of Business Administration, 2008

Dr Georges Ulrich may have started out as a humble sales apprenticeship, but it became the first stepping stone to mark a sterling career in statistics and marketing. Fuelling his burning desire to pursue a university education led him not only to receive his Bachelors in Switzerland, but also to study his MBA (2004) and DBA (2009) at USQ. Amazingly, Dr Ulrich obtained his Doctorate while working as the Managing Director of GFS Research Institute – one of the most renowned market research institutions in Switzerland. Dr Ulrich is currently is a Professor at the University of Zurich, a lecturer for strategic management and the Director of the Federal Department of Statistics in Switzerland.

Aletha Ward

Professional Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Nursing, 2003

Since graduating USQ with a Bachelor of Nursing in 2003, Aletha Ward has made a positive impact on Queensland Health. After becoming Director of Clinical Workforce Planning, she recognised the shortfall of clinical staff (especially in regional areas) and has ensured communities have had access to clinical health and training, resulting in more staff. Aletha also formed the Ipswich & West Moreton Health Pathways Alliance in 2011, which has shown great success in helping 70 students per year in the Ipswich area transition from school to health care. She is also studying her Master of Science at USQ with the goal of completing her PhD.

Ricky Mead

Community Service Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of General Education Studies, 2008

Ricky Mead has been an active member of the Toowoomba and surrounding districts for over 20 years. He is the Co-director of ACCESS (Australian Community Citizens for Empowering South Sudan), an international charitable organisation that helps educate and assist thousands of people in Australia and South Sudan. With his amazing life story, Ricky has been inspiring and empowering young people across the world and has worked and volunteered at many youth shelters, organisations and charities. Ricky’s projects in South Sudan include a mobile education and training centre, a clinic in the village of Wernyol where he has assisted in training traditional midwifes and locals in emergency child birth, first aid, hygiene practices, waste disposal, wound management and nutrition.

Irene McBride

Indigenous Service Alumnus of the Year
Master of Education, 2007 

Affectionately known as ‘Aunty Rene’, Irene McBride is a proud Butchulla Elder and lives and works on Butchulla Country in Hervey Bay Queensland. After raising her own children as a single mother, Aunty Rene pursued her dream of becoming a school teacher. Successfully obtaining her Education degree in 1986, she went on to become the first Aboriginal teacher at St Michaels Catholic School on Palm Island. Determined to complete a post graduate degree, after 20 years of teaching Aunty Rene finally graduated with her Master of Education from USQ in 2007.

Milton Cheng

Chapter Volunteer Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business, 1993

Since becoming the USQ Hong Kong Alumni Chapter Chair in 2010, Milton has displayed a very high level of enthusiasm and passion for promoting USQ’s Alumni Network in Hong Kong. Before Milton showed interest in a volunteer leadership role, the Hong Kong Alumni Chapter was on the brink of closure. Due to his tireless efforts and leadership, the chapter grew into one of those most active alumni chapters for USQ and now boasts more than 80 members.
Over the past four years, Milton and his committee have successfully held and participated in more than 40 alumni social, sporting and networking activities effectively promoting USQ in Hong Kong.

Russell Dykstra

Alumnus of the Year | Faculty of Arts

Russell Dykstra is a successful and accomplished actor who has starred in many film, television and theatre productions. His most recent credits include: Film: Oranges and Sunshine (Dan), View from Greehaven Drive (Tim), Hey, Hey it’s Esther Blueburger (Osmond Blueburger) and Romulus My Father (Mitru). Television: Rake (Series 1 and 2 – Barney), Wild Boys (Winston), Spirited (Adam), My Place (Mr Merry) and Theatre: The Addams Family (Fester), Baby Teeth (Gideon) and God of Carnage (Michael). Russell has also received a range of awards for his acting prowess, including the Helpmann and Sydney Theatre Award for Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role for Toy Symphony, an AFI Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actor in Romulus My Father. 

Martin Smith

International Alumnus of the Year

From USQ to the Pentagon! Martin Smith is the Deputy Director of Future Concepts for The Pentagon, presiding over the future operational concepts of the world’s most potent fighting force. Prior to this, Martin worked in various roles for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) including, Managing Director and Strategic Operations Manager. Martin has been responsible for commanding a multi-national force of 600 members, drawn from six countries, while securing and sustaining a Forward Operating Base of 6,500 personnel in the middle of a war in Afghanistan.

Martin Smith holds rank of Wing Commander with the RAAF and in 2012 was awarded the Australia Day Commendation for Distinguished Service: Outstanding Leadership in Combat. Martin attributes much of his success to the lifeline given to him by USQ through the tertiary bridging course that provided him the confidence to complete with Distinction a Bachelor of Business in Accounting (1993) and Master of Business Administration (2001). 

Tanya Stevenson

Young Alumnus of the Year

It takes passion, drive, determination, a focused vision and finding your niche in life to succeed. If you have all of this under control before the age of 35, you are doing very well. Tanya Stevenson has worked her way up motivated by her passion for community service to Area Manager of the Wide Bay Burnett Region of UnitingCare Community. Tanya manages 39 staff and counsellors across 16 programs throughout the Wide Bay Burnett Region.

Prior to this, Tanya was Client Services Manager, managing 21 counsellors across 8 counselling programs. Tanya is committed to community service and prior to these key roles, Tanya was also a Youth Support Manager and Coordinator with UnitingCare Community.

Ms Stevenson has completed several degrees, certificates and diplomas to support her management roles including a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) (2006) and Masters in Education (Guidance & Counselling) (2008) at USQ.

To acknowledge her achievements, Tanya was also awarded ‘Young Business Person of the Year’, Fraser Coast, in 2012.

Craig Scroggie

Faculty of Business & Law Alumnus of the Year

When you think ICT, the name that comes to mind is Craig Scroggie, with over 20 years’ experience in the ICT industry. Craig Scroggie is a well-respected and accomplished business man who holds the position of Chief Executive Officer of NEXTDC, an IT service provider located in Brisbane, Queensland.

Prior to joining NEXTDC, Mr Scroggie was Vice President & Managing Director of Symantec in the Pacific region.

Craig holds three degrees with USQ: a Graduate Certificate in Management (2001), a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (2007), and a Master of Business Administration (2009).

Rachael Jacobs

Faculty of Education Alumnus of the Year

Rachael Jacobs is a Lecturer in Creative Arts Education at Australian Catholic University. As part of her role, Rachael has been successful in attaining a number of grants relating to arts education and alternative assessment practices. Rachel completed a Master of Education at USQ in 2007. Her research experience and interests include; creative arts education, performance assessment and assessment in higher education.

Ms Jacobs is an accomplished writer with many publications and conference presentation papers to her name. Since 2008, Rachael has also received several awards for excellence in teaching and innovative approaches to assessment.

Gerard Reiter 

Faculty of Engineering & Surveying Alumnus of the Year

If there is a tricky technical problem to be solved, Gerard Reiter is the man to help solve it. He is the Executive General Manager of Capital Program Delivery for TransGrid, a high voltage network company connecting generators, distributors and major end users in NSW and the ACT. Gerard has been a key contributor to the restructure of the TransGrid business unit from a traditional discipline based business, into an Asset Manager, Service Provider Business.

Gerard completed a Bachelor of Engineering Electrical/Electronic (Hons) at USQ in 1992 and since then has been employed in various Engineering positions throughout Queensland, other areas of Australia, as well as overseas in Germany and Switzerland. Gerard has also won several Powerlink Business Excellence Achievement Awards.

He is the Executive General Manager of Capital Program Delivery for TransGrid and previously employed in various engineering positions throughout Australia and overseas. Gerard has also won several Powerlink Business Excellence achievement awards.

Anthony Leicht

Faculty of Sciences Alumnus of the Year

James Cook University (JCU), Townsville is fortunate to have star basketball player turned academic, Anthony Leicht as Associate Professor in the Institute of Sport and Exercise Science department.

Anthony Leicht has completed an astounding four degrees with the University of Southern Queensland, including a Bachelor of Applied Sciences (1990) including honours in (1991), Graduate Diploma of Further Education & Training (1996) and Doctor of Philosophy (1998). Anthony’s employment history is broad, commencing as a Research Assistant at USQ, followed by Senior Lecturer, Director, Deputy Director and current role, Associate Professor at JCU.

Anthony is also an accomplished researcher and writer, with an extensive list of publications including Theses, internationally recognised journal articles as well as International and National abstracts and conference proceedings.

Mark Willacy 

Alumnus of the Year | Faculty of Arts
Bachelor of Arts (USQ)

•  Bureau Chief/North Asia correspondent for ABC TV and Radio, based in Tokyo

‘The Faculty of Arts really did challenge me to think. That was where I found my intellectual home. It’s truly an honour to receive this award and to be back in my hometown. This award is truly up there with some of the highlights of my career. I am amongst some very talented and esteemed company.’

Khalid Al-Mabrouk Abdalla 

International Alumnus of the Year
Doctor of Philosophy; Master of Project Management 

• Executive Vice-Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of the Libyan Government’s Investment Promotion Fund 
• Chairman of the Libyan Investment Holding Company in Africa.
• Master of Business Administration (CQU)
• Graduate Certificate in Management (CQU)
• Master of Accounting (Academy of Postgraduate Studies – Libya)
• Bachelor of Accounting (University of Gar Younis – Libya) 

Katrina Hobbs 

Young Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business

• Chief Executive Officer of Eden Farms Family Group.
• Diploma in Corporate Governance, The Australian Institute of Company Directors (scholarship position)
• Diploma in Export Management, Australian Institute of
• CND38 Small Business Course, Open Learning Institute of TAFE

Atalina Enari 

Faculty of Business and Law Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Business

• Govenor of the Central Bank of Samoa.
• Masters in Science (MSc) in International Economics, Banking and Finance (University of Wales, UK) 
• Bachelor of Law (LLB) (USP) 
• Professional Diploma in Legal Practice (USP)

Victoria Close 

Faculty of Education Alumnus of the Year
PhD; Master’s in Education

• Nursing Student Support Officer at the College for Indigenous Studies, Education and Research (CISER)
• Aboriginal Research (Melbourne University)
• Bachelor of Arts with Distinction (CQU)

Tony Brun 

Faculty of Engineering and Surveying Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Engineering

• Chief Executive Officer of the City of Greater Geraldton in Western Australia 
• Company Directors Diploma, Australian Institute of Company Directors
  Master of Business Administration (Tech Mgt), Deakin University, Victoria 
• Graduate Diploma of (Technology) Management, APESMA/Deakin University, Victoria 

June Henry 

Faculty of Sciences Alumnus of the Year
Bachelor of Arts; Doctor of Philosophy, Faculty of Science

•  Master of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Science (UQ)
• Diploma in Psychology (UQ)
• Medicare Care Registered Clinical Psychologist in her own private practice, Health Journeys Australia, based in Toowoomba.

Kathryn Campbell
Alumnus of the Year | Faculty of Business

Secretary, Department of Human Services
Masters of Business Administration (USQ)
Bachelor of Applied Science (Applied Mathematics) (Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education 1988)

'I am absolutely delighted and honoured to be selected as the USQ Alumnus of the Year. I am very proud to be a graduate of the university and look forward to a continuing involvement in the years ahead.'

Lackana Leelayouthayotin
International Alumnus of the Year

Executive Vice President and CEO Health Supplement Division Cerebos Pacific Limited, Singapore
Doctor of Business Administration

'USQ has helped in growing my business knowledge and solidify my credentials. It helps unlocking my personal potential and furthering my personal aspirations. This award is not only encouraging me to continue committing to and supporting community projects, but also inspiring me to direct my effort to contribute more to the society.'

Nelle Lee
Young Alumnus of the Year | Faculty of Arts

Company Director & Founder, Shake & Stir Theatre Company
Bachelor of Theatre Arts (Acting)

'Having someone believe in you in this industry can make all the difference. The reality is that USQ delivers hard working, talented actors and crew who are versatile and easy to work with.'

Alison Hancox 
Faculty of Education Alumnus of the Year

Assistant Principal, Edmonton Public Schools
Master of Education Technology

'I am grateful and humbled to be selected as the Faculty’s winner given the calibre of my fellow students in the Master of Education Technology program. It is a great honour and a testament to the quality of teaching at USQ.'

Tristan Breust
Faculty of Engineering and Surveying Alumnus of the Year

Structural / Civil Engineer, GHD
Bachelor of Engineering - Civil

'I would like to use my engineering expertise to develop innovative solutions to reinstate basic services and infrastructure to war-torn countries or those that have experienced devastating natural disasters.'