Oval No 1 at Callaghan officially renamed to the Bernie Curran Oval
He is a well-known and loved personality across the University. And earlier this month, Bernie Curran got quite the surprise during the University of Newcastle Sports Awards.
During the event on Friday 16 August, Chancellor Paul Jeans announced that Oval No 1 on the Callaghan Campus would be officially renamed to the Bernie Curran Oval. The honour recognised the outstanding contributions of Dr Bernard Francis ‘Bernie’ Curran AM – a distinguished University and Rugby Club alumnus.
Bernie has been an integral part of the University community for more than 40 years; as a student, rugby player, sports leader, academic, mentor, fundraiser, active alumnus, donor, researcher and, most of all, a compassionate friend to many.
In 2018, Bernie was recognised by the University with an Alumni Award for Exceptional Community Service. His outstanding contributions were also recognised nationally in 2018, when he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to tertiary education, particularly through higher learning opportunities for young people in rural areas.
For many years, Oval No 1 been informally and affectionately referred to as ‘Bernie Curran Oval’, in light of Bernie’s longstanding involvement and passionate engagement with the University Rugby Club. The ground is also located behind the University’s residential colleges, providing further resonance with Bernie’s role as Foundation Warden of Evatt House.
“Bernie has shown an absolute passion and commitment to the University of Newcastle, our students, our staff and our wider community,” Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said.
“He is a staunch advocate for the benefits of integrating sport into University life and has made a significant impact towards the ongoing and future sports facilities we offer at our University.
“We’re delighted that his ongoing contribution will be recognised in perpetuity by naming Oval No 1 as the Bernie Curran Oval.”
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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.