Over 6–7 September, alumni and friends returned to Burgmann College for a special weekend of reconnection and celebration: Back-to-Burg 2025.
Saturday's events began with the much-anticipated art exhibition by Julian Twigg (1996–1998). Burgmann College Alumni Association President Matthew Lobb (1989–1991) introduced Julian Twigg, noting how the exhibition highlighted the College’s deep ties to the arts and was a bit of a 'full circle’ moment for Julian and the College: Julian now exhibiting in the very room where he once played pool and co-founded the Daw-born Cup. Fellow alum and friend of Julian Christine McIntosh (1982–1985) recounted a story of the day Julian visited her room, excited to show her a sketch of a pool scene he had completed.
After the BCAA AGM led by President Matthew Lobb, attendees gathered for the Alumni Awards Gala Dinner in the College's Common Room, which was beautifully decorated with flower arrangements by Advancement Volunteer and friend of the College, Fiona Nixon. The table flowers were designed in honour of the 25th anniversary of the Sydney Olympic Games, where Fiona served as one of three floral designers for the Australian Olympic winners.
Our dinner programme began with a moving Acknowledgement of Country by Gomeroi person Noah Smith, who invited guests to reflect on what Country gives us, and how Ngunnawal and Ngambri lands have served as a home-away-from-home for generations of Burgies. Noah shared how special it has been to bring his culture into the Burgmann community through cooking vital bush foods with fellow residents and teaching others about cultural traditions. He reminded us that ‘when we care for Country, Country cares for us’, inviting reflection on the many journeys that had brought people together that evening.
Acting Principal Taryn Stasakova then offered her welcome, followed by Grace led by AFP Chaplain and friend of the College, Gayl Mills, before guests shared the first course of the meal.
Kalara Pringgoharjono, a second-year student of International Relations and Commerce and current Council member, delivered a moving Resident Address. Reflecting on her global upbringing and frequent moving through her young life, and subsequent need to quickly adapt to new places, Kalara spoke of how Burgmann had transformed her understanding of belonging:
‘I had confused adaptation with belonging. What really surprised me is that I have come to feel the most myself I have ever felt during my time here.’
She highlighted the role of scholarships in ensuring access, diversity and belief in students’ futures, and described Burgmann as ‘the place that has allowed me to feel like I wasn’t just adapting…but truly belonging.’
The heart of the evening came with the presentation of our 2025 Alumni Awards, celebrating the remarkable achievements of Burgies across diverse fields:
2025 Distinguished Alumni Award: Prof Graham Farquhar AO, FAA, FRS (1971) – One of the world’s most influential plant scientists, whose pioneering models of photosynthesis and water use have reshaped global science and the future of sustainable agriculture.
2025 Outstanding Alumni Award: Sarah Rosenberg (2015–2016) – Co-founder and Executive Director of With You We Can, Australia’s first survivor-led initiative dedicated to demystifying the justice system for survivors of sexual violence.
(Laura Rowe, ACT-based attorney and advocate for victims of sexual abuse, received the award on Sarah Rosenberg's behalf.)
2025 Volunteer Award: Dr Brett Davies LLM, MBA, SJD – Visiting Fellow (2024–2025), lawyer, academic and entrepreneur, recognised for his dedication to amplifying marginalised voices and his generous support of the Burgmann Journal.
(Resident and Burgmann Journal Editor Angus Arbuthnott received the award on Dr Brett Davies' behalf.)
2025 Staff Recognition Award: Steve Mundy – Burgmann’s much-loved Housekeeping Manager, retiring after 24 years of faithful service. Steve’s compassionate leadership and quiet support of residents have left an indelible mark on the College community.
>> Read more about our 2025 Alumni Awards recipients
The evening continued with a heartfelt Toast to the College by our guest of honour, Burgmann alum and former Chief Commissioner of Scouts NSW Neville Tomkins AM JP (1976–1979), who was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) earlier this year in recognition of his service to youth through his leadership roles in the Scouting Movement. Mr Tomkins praised Burgmann’s enduring values of accessibility, inclusivity and diversity:
‘A College that has earned a reputation as more than a place of residence—rather a place residents can happily call home.’
Guests then enjoyed dessert and a beautiful musical performance by residents Zac Little, Chris Mathur, Chiyo Brown, and alum Jacob George (2022–2024), bringing the evening to a close on a joyful and uplifting note.
It was incredibly special to have alumni and friends back at College for this weekend of celebration. Our thanks to all who travelled from near and far to attend; it was wonderful to connect and reminisce.
We look forward to celebrating 55 years of Burgmann College in 2026 and hope you might be able to join us.
View more Back-to-Burg photos below.
