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Monday, 19 March 2018

The achievements of highly respected Perth businessman and property developer Adrian Fini and internationally renowned music conductor Simone Young were celebrated when they were presented with honorary doctorates at The University of Western Australia.

For over 40 years Adrian Fini has driven significant urban transformation projects in Perth which have revitalised the city and created vibrant places and spaces which have been embraced by the community.  He was at the centre of specialised boutique developments such as Little Creatures in Fremantle and the Alex Hotel in Northbridge, as well as entire precincts such as Cathedral Square.

Mr Fini grew up in Perth and has been involved in property investment, development, and construction in WA since 1977.  He was appointed Managing Director of the Fini Group in 1994 and is currently Director of FJM Property Pty Ltd and Fini Group Pty Ltd. In 2016 Mr Fini was named West Australian of the Year and Western Australian Entrepreneur of the Year.

Simone Young’s career in music saw her become both the youngest person and first female to be appointed as a resident conductor.

As both artistic director of the Hamburg State Opera and Music Director of the city’s Philharmonic Orchestra, a dual role normally occupied by two people, she has bought the music of Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Wagner and Strauss to Hindemith, Britten and Henze, to audiences across the globe.

Born and raised in Sydney, she conducted her first opera in 1985 was named Young Australian of the Year in 1986. Ms Young’s distinguished career includes the accolades of Helpmann Awards, the Mo Award for Classical Performer of the Year and Grammy Award nominee.

UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater said the honorary doctorates celebrated the outstanding achievements of Adrian Fini and Simone Young and their contribution to WA and commitment to community.

“We are delighted to recognise two people who have made a truly substantial impact in their fields,” Professor Freshwater said.

Adrian Fini and Simone Young were presented with their honorary doctorates at a special ceremony held in UWA’s Winthrop Hall, before invited guests and University staff and students.

Media references

David Stacey (UWA Media and Public Relations Manager)  (+61 8) 6488 3229 / (+61 4) 32 637 716

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