La Trobe University is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary with a range of events across all campuses.
The university was officially opened by Victorian Premier Sir Henry Bolte on 8 March 1967.
La Trobe kicked off the birthday activities with a lawn lunch. Free entertainment and food were provided to staff and students.
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Former lecturer Richard Broome returned to the campus to take in the festivities.
“We’re getting into middle age as a university. It’s definitely matured. We’ve got a world reputation in a number of disciplines. We’re definitely punching above our weight,” he told upstart.
“I love this place. I came here every day for 30 years… I have lots of fond memories with great colleagues and wonderful students.”
Additionally, a 50 year exhibition will run from the March 6-8 at Queen’s Hall, Parliament House to showcase the university’s history and achievements.
Congratulations La Trobe! 50 years! #latrobeuni pic.twitter.com/B5aqgQA78X
— Rosa Storelli (@rosefitzben) March 5, 2017
La Trobe will also conduct a lecture on the life of Hyllus Maris, an Aboriginal Australian activist, poet and educator. Indigenous author Dr. Anita Heiss will be the guest speaker. The lecture will be streamed live on YouTube.
Vice Chancellor John Dewar told the Herald Sun that the celebration gave the university the chance to celebrate half a century of history.
“La Trobe University holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Melburnians and people across regional Victoria,” he said.
“We are delighted to welcome back so many of our former students, staff and friends of the university for this special lawn lunch that will celebrate our achievements over the last 50 years and give us all the chance to catch up with old friends.”
La Trobe was the third university opened in Victoria with just 552 students enrolled.
They have since expanded their campuses across regional areas including Albury-Wodonga, Bedigo, Mildura, Shepparton and Sydney.
The university currently educates over 36,000 students, including 7000 international students from 110 countries.
Over the 50 years, La Trobe has seen over 170,000 students graduate across their campuses.
For more information visit the anniversary website.
