Since 1954, when we became Australia's first regional university, UNE has been home to students who've gone on to become leaders, innovators, scientists, artists, and changemakers. What connects them all? That UNE experience—the one that challenges you, shapes you, and stays with you long after you've graduated. Their stories remind us that our history shapes our future, and that once you're part of the UNE community, you're part of something bigger.
Alumni News
UNE's First Graduate
UNE's first graduate reflects on university life 70 years ago.
Peter Battle was the first-ever graduate of the University of New England at the University's first graduation in 1955. Peter, who went on to a long career as a teacher in Tamworth, looks back with great fondness to his time as a student in a unique learning environment.
A century of memories
Centenarian alumnus Ron Vickress, looks back across a 100 years of memories.
UNE alumnus Ron Vickress, who celebrated his 100th birthday in 2025, looks back across a century of memories. From the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the bodyline cricket scandal, to his WWII experiences (including being present at the surrender of Japan) and subsequent years as a teacher of teachers, Mr Vickress was an eyewitness to what most of us consider "history".
Notable Alumni
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Wendy McCarthy AO
Recognised as one of Australia's most influential women, Wendy has received UNE's Distinguished Alumni Award (2001) and Honorary Doctorate (2020), authored several books including "Don't be too polite Girls" (2022), and recently received the 2024 NSW Award for Excellence in Women's Leadership. -
Don Walker
Don Walker was a founding member of the band Cold Chisel, contributing vocals, playing keyboards, and becoming the writer whose songs lifted the band out of pubs into mythology. Don was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from UNE for his song writing in 2020. -
Michele Bullock
Michele Bullock is the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia and the first woman to hold this position. A distinguished UNE alumna in 2025, she graduated with First Class Honours in Economics in 1985 before earning a Master's degree with Distinction from the London School of Economics. -
Professor John (Charlie) Veron OAM
Professor 'Charlie' Veron, the "godfather of corals" became the first full-time Great Barrier Reef researcher in 1972, named one-quarter of all known coral species, discovered the Coral Triangle, and authored the definitive "Corals of the World" (2000). He won a UNE Distinguished Alumni Award in 2022. -
Fanny Lumsden
Fanny Lumsden is an ARIA Award-winning singer-songwriter and UNE alumna who has become one of Australia's most beloved country music artists. Initially pursuing a Rural Science degree at UNE, her need for creative balance led her to song writing, launching a career that has earned her three Golden Guitars and her own record label, Red Dirt Road Records. -
Honourable Chris Minns MP
The Honourable Chris Minns MP is the 47th Premier of New South Wales and Member for Kogarah. Born and raised in the St George area, Chris has dedicated his career to public service across politics, the charity sector, and as a retained firefighter. -
Jeremy Fewtrell
Jeremy Fewtrell is the Commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW, appointed in November 2023. Jeremy graduated with a Bachelor of Natural Resources in 1999 and has led major emergency responses including the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires, 2022 floods, and the tragic Greta bus crash. -
Mandy Bishop
Amanda "Mandy" Bishop is an accomplished actor, singer, and comedian best known for her satirical portrayals of prominent political figures. A UNE Music alumna, Mandy gained national recognition playing Julia Gillard in the Sydney Theatre Company's Wharf Revue, beginning in 2008 when Gillard was deputy Opposition leader.
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Dr Grahame Webb AO
Professor Grahame Webb AO is a pioneering zoologist and UNE alumnus whose groundbreaking work has redefined crocodile conservation globally. He has supported over 50 conservation programs worldwide, earning the Clunies Ross National Science and Technology Award (2001) and Officer of the Order of Australia (2024). -
Kym Barrett
Kym Barrett is an acclaimed Hollywood costume designer whose iconic work includes Keanu Reeves' long coat in The Matrix series, Aquaman's metallic suit and costumes for Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet. A UNE alumna who discovered her passion for design in the Theatre Department, she studied at NIDA before her breakthrough on Romeo + Juliet launched a stellar career. -
The Honourable Chris Bowen MP
The Hon Chris Bowen MP is Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy and the Federal Member for McMahon, NSW. A Western Sydney local from Smithfield, Chris graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Economics and earned a Master's in International Relations, later completing a Diploma in Modern Languages at UNE in 2018. -
Professor Anne Bamford OBE
Professor Anne Bamford OBE is the Strategic Director of Education, Culture and Skills for the City of London and a globally recognised education innovator. She served as a UNESCO world scholar and conducted major educational impact studies for governments worldwide.
Meet our Alumni Award Winners
Since 1994 the UNE Alumni Awards have provided an opportunity to recognise the diverse achievements of our alumni in their lives, careers and communities. Award winners have demonstrated their commitment to UNE’s core values.
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