About the scholarship

“This scholarship isn’t necessarily about being the highest achiever. It’s about supporting students who demonstrate motivation, commitment, and determination to succeed. These are certainly some of the qualities embodied by Alan Roberts in his life’s work.” - CHOO Heng Thong

The Inspiration

Emeritus Professor Alan Roberts AM has been a leading engineering educator and expert in the field of bulk solids handling for over 50 years, including 40 years at the University of Newcastle where he shared the gift of education with thousands of engineering students who have gone on to achieve great things themselves.

Through his ground-breaking work with TUNRA Bulk Solids, Alan pioneered an important and successful niche in bulk materials handling. For more than four decades he has championed industry collaboration and innovation, receiving numerous awards in recognition of his work, including an Order of Australia for his contributions to technology, research and education in mechanical engineering.

Professor Roberts ‘retired’ from UON over 20 years ago in 1993, however, his commitment to students is unswerving. At over 80 years of age, he still comes to the University every day to mentor, teach, research and learn, share his knowledge and nurture a new generation of Engineers in his humble yet inspiring way.

The Scholarship

To be eligible for this annual scholarship, students must be academically gifted and also facing hardship from factors such as being from a low socio-economic background, coming from a rural or remote area, living with disabilities, or having carer or parenting responsibilities.

CHOO Heng Thong’s vision for the scholarship is to build and grow a community of Professor Alan Roberts Scholars and provide opportunities for them to connect and be supported by the alumni who contributed to the fund.