In 2013, the Alumni Lecture will be delivered by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Andrew Parfitt with the topic 'Space: Australia's Final Frontier'.

Few of the visible signs associated with space activity are present in Australia.  We don't have an astronaut program, and for many decades we haven't launched a rocket from our soil.  Yet Australia was involved in the space age from its very beginnings and continues to be a leader in radio astronomy and other areas of space science and technology. Although we might not realise it, Australians are extensive users of space derived products and services.

This lecture will look at the current state of space-related activities in Australia and explore why space continues to be important to Australia in our strategic global relationships and our daily life.

Professor Parfitt holds a PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Adelaide, and has held adjunct academic positions at the University of South Australia, the University of Adelaide, the University of Sydney and Macquarie University.

Professor Parfitt's career highlights include leading the Cooperative Research Centre for Satellite Systems (CRCSS), the national research group responsible for launching FedSat, which was Australia's first satellite in 30 years.

Professor Parfitt is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and a Fellow of Engineers Australia. He is currently chair of the Australian Academy of Science National Committee for Radio Science and a member of the Council of the International Radio Science Union. He is a Director of the Defence Teaming Centre, the Technology Industry Association and the Cooperative Research Centre for Integrated Engineering Asset Management.

The Alumni Lecture (formerly known as the Convocation Lecture) is organised by the Office of External Relations together with the Alumni Advisory Committee (AAC) - a group of graduates elected to represent the University Alumni community. It is traditionally delivered by significant alumni or newly appointed academics to the University.

This is a free public lecture.

WHEN: 5:45pm for 6pm Tuesday, 28 May

WHERE: Newcastle City Hall

RSVP:Email corporate-relations@newcastle.edu.au or phone (02) 4921 6699