The University of Newcastle has been presented with the Keys to the City in recognition of its historic and ongoing contribution to Newcastle’s cultural, economic, and social life.
The civic honour was formally conferred during a special graduation ceremony at City Hall, celebrating the University’s 60th anniversary and its enduring partnership with the City of Newcastle.
Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said City of Newcastle is proud to recognise the institution’s six decades of service and its profound impact on generations of Novocastrians.
“The University and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration, and progress. Their influence is woven through our city and communities,” Cr Kerridge said. “Over the past 60 years, the University has transformed lives and opened doors for tens of thousands of people in our city. This honour particularly recognises the University’s role in enabling so many ‘first in family’ students to go to university, and the University’s ongoing commitment to providing educational opportunities for all.”
The motion to bestow the Keys to the City was initiated by Cr Declan Clausen and supported by the elected Council in May, acknowledging the transformational power of education and the University’s leadership in fostering access and equity through programs such as Yapug and Open Foundation.
“The University has long been a leader of inclusive education, with a deep commitment to equity that has delivered lasting benefits to our city, region, state, nation, and beyond,” Cr Clausen said. “Our ongoing collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of Newcastle’s progress, from community health and sustainability to First Nations engagement and urban innovation. The University’s central role in Newcastle’s urban renewal, through developments like NUspace and the City Campus, has helped shape the vibrant city we are today.”
The Keys were accepted on behalf of the University by Chancellor, the Hon. Patricia Forsythe AM. The ceremony also featured Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly, Elders in Residence at the University’s Wollotuka Institute, alongside students and special guests from the University’s 60-year history, including some who have been part of the community since its earliest days.
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Alex Zelinsky said the honour reflected the collective efforts of the entire University community.
“This is a proud moment for our institution. For 60 years, our staff, students, and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world,” Professor Zelinsky said. “We’re honoured to accept the Keys to the City and will continue to be ambassadors for Newcastle and the values we share.”
IMAGE | From L to R: Aunty Cheryl Newton, University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, Chancellor, the Hon. Patricia Forsythe AM, Lord Mayor, Dr Ross Kerridge and Aunty Amanda Kelly at the official presentation during the University’s graduation ceremony at City Hall.
