The Burgmann residential community is rich in a diversity of skills and abilities led by the Burgmann Residents Association. All residents are encouraged to become involved in all aspects of College life. There is never a shortage of things happening at Burgmann throughout the year. Our residents are encouraged to be part of the community culture at the very beginning of their time at Burgmann. Here are just a taste of some of the regular activities that take place.
The two primary formal occasions in the College year, marking its start and finish. Each occasion includes a brief dinner speech, usually by a guest. At the Commencement Dinner, Academic Awards are presented to residents who distinguished themselves in their studies in the previous year and the current year’s Scholarship Winners are recognised.
Over the course of a year many leaders of society (scientists, politicians, diplomats, lawyers, business leaders, senior public figures and leaders in Australia and beyond) come to the College to speak at dinner. This allows residents to develop their social and intellectual skills, build networks and expand their spheres of understanding in preparation for significant careers.
The Dawborn competition has been running in College for over 30 years. For this event everyone dresses up to watch the grand the final match-up of the annual Burgmann Snooker competition.
Held throughout the year and hosted by the Principal in the Lodge. Residents are invited in small groups for a variety of fun evening activities.
Special forums are held throughout the year at the College. They often involve a presentation of material from research being undertaken as part of PhD, Masters, or Honours students. From time to time, the College also invites a range of external speakers to give seminars, as a way to provide an opportunity to listen to a speaker of wider community standing, to educate and foster discussion.
There are a number of team sports (hockey, volleyball, cricket, tennis, AFL, rugby union, basketball and inward bound just to name a few) in which all residents are encouraged to participate and represent the College. Being part of a team is a great way to get to know people better and meet people from other Colleges.
A long running tradition at Burgmann is that each year, Burgmann students put on a play which is entirely student directed, produced and acted. This provides opportunities for residents to develop new skills as well as allowing the theatrical talents of others to shine.
Every Sunday morning residents are invited for scones, tea and coffee hosted by the Principal, Dean, or College Officer in their lodgings or out in the open air. This provides a weekly opportunity for students to come together with newspapers, magazines, music and great conversation.
Burgmann Ball is a formal ball that is entirely organised by a committee of Burgmann residents and is one of the best nights of the year. The theme and location is the choice of the committee.
An annual navigation based, endurance running event for ANU Students in the surrounds of Canberra with a mystery drop location in the middle of the night. The event has been running since 1962.
Each year, the Residential Advisors host Christmas in July (in August). The community comes together to enjoy festive food and lots of fun!
A great community weekend event that connects current residents with old friends and colleagues of Burgmann.
There are a number of arts events in which all residents are encouraged to participate and represent the College. Residents can compete in the inter-hall arts competition in a number of areas such as choir, band, spelling bees and much more.
There are several competitions for Burgmann Residents, including the E M Cumming Essay Prize.
