A lasting tribute to friendship and song

Monday, 20 October 2025

A remarkable bequest to the University of Newcastle’s Conservatorium of Music continues to shape the future of music education and nurture the next generation of performers in our region.

Student with guitar on stage in front of crowd at the Great Hall
Norman Bushman's remarkable decision to leave a gift in his Will is still providing support to students like Shyanne Irwin, seen here playing at the Supporter Thank You Reception.

A lifelong love of music and singing – and a heartfelt desire to honour the memory of his dear friend and talented pianist, Mrs Joy Ingall – led Norman Bushman to leave a gift in his Will to attract aspiring music students to study in Newcastle.

Thanks to his generous $2.8 million bequest in 2010, the fund has grown to $4.3 million and has already provided scholarships to 34 talented musicians.

Together, the Norman Bushman Scholarship for Undergraduate Studies Relating to Voice and the Joy Ingall Scholarship for Studies in Music have helped cement Newcastle as a destination for musical excellence and had a profound impact on aspiring musicians.

Norman Bushman’s love for music was a constant thread all through his life. Born in Singleton in 1923, he became a successful entrepreneur and was known for his generosity and wit. He believed in making music accessible to the community and encouraged others to share his love for it.

Each of us find different ways to make our mark on the world. Norman’s legacy will continue to support students in achieving their dreams and enrich the cultural life of our region and beyond through music education.

Shyanne Irwin received the Norman Bushman Scholarship for Studies in Voice in 2023. She says the scholarship gave her the means to pursue her dream of performing and enabled her to share the incredible gift of music with her community.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the late Norman Bushman for his generosity and support. His passion for music and dedication to helping musicians thrive has profoundly inspired me. This scholarship has been life-changing, providing financial support throughout my music studies and motivating me to pursue a fulfilling career as a music teacher.”

Shyanne Irwin
2023 Norman Bushman Scholarship for Undergraduate Studies in Voice Recipient
B Music & Perf Arts, 2024

To find out how you can make a lasting impact beyond your lifetime through a gift in your Will, please contact Catherine for a confidential discussion on 02 4921 8612 or email bequests@newcastle.edu.au

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