Vale George Roberts CBE

Vale George Roberts CBE

James Cook University farewells a great friend today, at the funeral of Mr George Roberts CBE.

JCU’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Chris Cocklin, said Mr Roberts played a crucial role in establishing and shaping the University College of Townsville, which went on to become JCU.

“He has been a part of the University’s life from its inception,” Professor Cocklin said.

“At a time when some envisaged the planned University College as just a small cluster of classrooms, teaching the first few years of courses and then transferring students to Brisbane, George Roberts had plans for an expansive campus.”

As Deputy Mayor, Mr Roberts arranged for the purchase of what is now the JCU campus in Douglas.

“He placed great importance on providing tertiary education beyond the capital cities, and described the University College as ‘the most important happening in this part of the world since Federation’,” Professor Cocklin said.

The residential college George Roberts Hall is named in honour of his generous support. The George Roberts CBE Bursary is funded by a capital donation made by Mr Roberts in 2003, and provides a year of residence at the College.

“The JCU community has lost one of our great champions and on behalf of the University, I extend our sincere condolences to Mr Roberts’ family,” Professor Cocklin said.

Issued: January 8, 2015

Media enquiries: Linden Woodward, 07 4232 1007, linden.woodward@jcu.edu.au