Celebrating 60 Years of Newcastle and Singapore
In 2025, two remarkable milestones converge: the University of Newcastle celebrates its 60th anniversary and Singapore marks 60 years of independence. Reflecting on the spirit of opportunity that has shaped our shared history, we celebrate how Singapore-based alumni are helping to build our shared future.
The first Singaporean Colombo Plan scholars arrived at the University of Newcastle in 1968. Those early alumni became ambassadors and advocates, helping to build bridges across cultures and continents.
Among them was Dr Peter Tay, completing a double degree in Industrial Engineering and Economics. Over the past decades, Dr Tay has continued to forge strong bonds between Singapore and Newcastle and, alongside his wife, Mrs Catherine Tay, has transformed many lives through generous support of scholarships.
“It has been our honour to support scholarships that enable talented students to pursue academic excellence and contribute meaningfully to society. Fostering these opportunities continues the strong traditions of prosperity and leadership shared between Singapore and Newcastle and strengthens our enduring bonds,” says Dr Tay.
Global community, local impact
Today, nearly 9,000 alumni based in Singapore have generously donated over $2.6 million to support scholarships and other important causes through the University.
“My scholarship has provided me with the freedom and motivation to concentrate on my academic endeavours. My donors’ pay-it-forward approach to life will continue to pay dividends through each student they unselfishly support,” says Jeffrey, a recipient of the Catherine and Peter Tay High Achiever Engineering Undergraduate Scholarship.
Shared journeys, shared futures
As we mark 60 years of quality education, research breakthroughs and global partnerships at the University of Newcastle, Singapore is celebrating 60 years of nationhood. The year-long calendar of celebrations is packed with events, cultural performances and special promotions to commemorate ‘Building Our Singapore Together’. To all our alumni and friends in Singapore – thank you for being part of our community and enjoy the celebrations!
Advancing the next generation
Singapore is one of Asia’s most advanced hubs for education, research and innovation and the University's Newcastle Australia Institute of Higher Education (NAIHE) serves as a vital regional hub, connecting students, researchers and industry partners across the Asia-Pacific.
If you are interested in establishing or supporting an undergraduate or PhD scholarship, please contact our team on 02 4921 8612 or email donor-relations@newcastle.edu.au
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.