Graduate Hans Pearson, Mayor Steve Jones, Senior Vice President of UQGPSA Don Oxenham with Junior Vice President Peter Douglas.
Graduate Hans Pearson, Mayor Steve Jones, Senior Vice President of UQGPSA Don Oxenham with Junior Vice President Peter Douglas.
1 March 2011

Past University of Queensland (UQ) students have proven their ties to the Lockyer Valley remain strong by digging deep to support the flood appeal.

Mr Hans Pearson, a graduate from 1991, launched an email campaign in conjunction with the UQ Gatton Past Students Association (UQGPSA) seeking support for the flood appeal that resulted in donations and well-wishes coming from all parts of the globe.

“The generosity was overwhelming and it was clear past students were digging deep for the community they once called home,” Mr Pearson said.

“Separate reunions have been organised to raise funds and numerous individual donations have also been received.”

“We expect donations will continue to come in and that the Association can make further presentations to the community in the coming months.”

Senior Vice-President of the UQGPSA, Don Oxenham presented a cheque for $4200 to Lockyer Valley Mayor Steve Jones last week at UQ’s Morrison Hall. Mr Pearson and other committee members also attended the presentation, reinforcing the importance of links between the university and local community.

“The recent flood events and tragic impact to the Lockyer Valley community was felt by all past students,” Mr Pearson said.

“It is important the connection with the community is maintained and indeed strengthened by appeals such as this.”

UQ Gatton Past Students Association Inc. is open to all past students and staff dating back to its origins as the Queensland Agricultural High School and College, Queensland Agricultural College and The University of Queensland Gatton Campus.

For more information visit: www.uq.edu.au/gatton/paststudents.