Amb. Bill Tweddell Bids Fond Adieu

With sincere apologies for not finding the time during the busy holiday season to bid a formal thank-you and goodbye, RCM honorary member Ambassador of Australia to the Philippines asked me to convey his fondest appreciation and goodbyes to all of our members as he departs the Philippines to return to his alma mater, James Cook University, as its new Chancellor.

On his election, Bill tweeted: “Deeply honoured at election as Chancellor of @JCU & at opportunity to give back to my alma mater & home community.WT http://dfat.ly/1R2wXH2”

Here are excerpts from the formal announcement from JCU:

James Cook University’s governing body, the University Council has elected Bill Tweddell as JCU’s next Chancellor. Mr Tweddell will replace the current Chancellor, Lt. Gen. John Grey AC (Retired), who has previously announced he will retire from the position at the completion of his current term on 25 March 2016.

The University Council met to consider two candidates for the position of Chancellor, and Bill was been elected (by a vote of 17 to 5) as Chancellor for a five-year term, beginning March 26th 2016. The Chancellor is the Chair of the University’s governing body and presides over all its meetings. He will be the University’s fifth Chancellor, and the first alumnus elected to the role.

Mr Tweddell has enjoyed a distinguished career in Australia’s diplomatic service spanning four decades. He is currently Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, having served in the position since 2012. Other career highlights include serving as Ambassador to Vietnam, Deputy High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Deputy High Commissioner to India, and High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Mr Tweddell grew up in Townsville and completed bachelor degrees in English and Economics at James Cook University. In 2010 he was recognised as an Outstanding Alumnus of JCU.

“I am honoured and humbled to be elected Chancellor, and I am acutely conscious of the big shoes I am to fill,” Bill Tweddell said.

Outgoing Chancellor General John Grey said he is delighted by Mr. Tweddell’s election. “Bill is an outstanding Australian who has maintained his contacts with James Cook University throughout his career, and particularly since 2010 when he was recognised as an Outstanding Alumnus.”

Bill Tweddell said he will bring to the University his experience in promoting Australian initiatives in the region. “Mine has been an Asia-focused career by choice. This focus has enabled me to develop extensive, high-level knowledge and access to senior government representatives in the region.”

“These postings and my North Queensland upbringing bring depth to my commitment to JCU’s tropical agenda in our region and beyond.”