Dear colleagues,

This has been an extraordinary year. We are little more than halfway through and yet we have already seen such change and at such a pace that there can be no doubt we truly are an institution on the move.

We have seen the completion of the Indigenous Learning Circle, the beginning of the Campus Master Plan rollout with the relocation of University Avenue, and the launch of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, to name but a few of the many events so far this year. We have welcomed new staff members to join us, and seen colleagues promoted across the organisation as we invest in their professional growth. We have also seen friends leave us, and wished them well as they began new phases of their careers.

With the winter break behind us, and Session 2 well underway, this pace will not slow in the coming months: in fact, it will only accelerate. Shortly we will reveal more about the Campus Master Plan, and launch our new University brand as a symbol of the University we aspire to become. As I have said many times before, there is exciting work to be done, and I am confident that we will each rise to the challenges ahead of us.

As much as there is to do, we must also remember that a well-earned rest is as satisfying as a job well done. To that end, and in consultation with the Executive Group, I have agreed that Friday 2 January 2015 will be an additional concessional day for University staff, and that we shall resume normal operations on Monday 5 January 2015. I feel it is important that we all take time to recharge, and early notice of this additional day will give you an opportunity to make your holiday plans well ahead of time however you plan to relax over the festive break.

Naturally some University operations will continue over the Christmas break, and your manager or head of department will provide advice if you are unsure whether you are affected. Human Resources staff will also be able to provide information and guidance if required.

I thank you for your hard work and dedication so far this year. I hope that we will all look upon 2014 as our greatest yet.

With warm good wishes,
S Bruce Dowton