Saturday, 29 October 2011

An historic gathering took place at The University of Western Australia tonight with Commonwealth Heads of State attending a dinner hosted by the Australian Prime Minister at the University’s Winthrop Hall.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard was joined by about 100 Commonwealth leaders at the University following the second day of CHOGM discussions in Perth.

The gathering was also attended by the University’s Chancellor, Dr Michael Chaney, and Vice-Chancellor Professor Alan Robson.

Professor Robson described the event as one of the most important in the University’s 100 year history.

“Our beautiful Winthrop Hall, one of Perth’s most recognised buildings, has stood for decades as a beacon of learning in the community.  It is fitting that it has been chosen for this historic gathering, recognising the University’s increasing importance as a contributor to global knowledge and education,” he said.

“It is the first time in our University’s history that so many international heads of state have gathered on our campus at one time.

“When UWA was established in 1911 it was hailed as the first free university in the Commonwealth.  One hundred years later, the University is hosting the leaders of the Commonwealth – many of whom lead nations which have strong associations with UWA through international education and research.

“UWA is an international university in outlook and action. The decision to make the University the focus of the Prime Minister’s dinner is a reflection of the University’s position as an intellectual and creative resource not only for the Western Australian and Australian community but the global community.

UWA has been a focus for a series of major events during CHOGM week , beginning with a dinner for 250 Commonwealth business and government leaders, visits by the Prime Minister, the Governor-General of Australia and the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as several community meetings by Heads of State and senior government officials of Commonwealth countries.

Media references

Doug Durack (UWA Public Affairs)    (+61 8)  6488 2806  /  (+61 4) 19 946294

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