End of an era at USQ Res Colleges

After almost 17 years of helping shape USQ students and college culture, the Director of the University's Residential Colleges is retiring.

Brian Hansson is saying goodbye to what he thinks is the best job at the Uni, and it's with mixed emotions that he prepares to leave on Wednesday 31 January 2007.

Brian bought his expertise in dietetics and catering to USQ in 1990 when he became the Manager of the USQ Refectory, and has since taken on the role of Director of the Residential Colleges.

From working in a Singaporean hospital and the Australian Army, to the Senior Public Relations Officer for a Mt Isa mine, Brian has lead a diverse work life complete with extensive international travel and a few career changes.

With 432 residents and 85 staff across the University's three Colleges - McGregor, Steel Rudd and Concannon, Brian says it has been a rewarding seven years.

'My job is dynamic - it is not a 9 to 5 role, it's all day seven days a week.

'This becomes the kids' homes. They deal with the same things as they do at home - romance, sickness and broken hearts and so we treat college as though its home.'

Approaching his time at the Colleges with enthusiasm, Brian has made a number of significant changes during the past few years.

In 2001 Brian introduced a voice over IP telephone system in the students' bedrooms, allowing them free broadband access. He also oversaw the instillation of new bathrooms in McGregor and part of Steel Rude, along with the introduction of accommodation facilities suitable for people living with a disability.

But it is his personal commitment to the students that Brian will be remembered for most.

'It's a very rewarding job. I watch the kids graduate with a lot of joy.

'A few years ago a 65 year old Japanese man moved on to college. He used to call up and invite me down for tea. I found out he was a Major General in the Japanese Army during WW2.

'When he arrived he couldn't speak English, and he left at 72 with a Masters in Arts.'

Brian has endeavoured to encourage students to be their best both academically and as a person, and it is a role he has taken personally.

'I try to instil in them a sense of responsibility- we want them to leave with good life skills.

'When you leave a job you take memories and I am going to walk away with a truck load of them from USQ.'

The University will host a farewell morning tea for Brian on Tuesday 30 January 2007 at 10am. The function will be held at the Heathwood Room, McGregor College. Media are invited to attend.

Media Contact: Connie-Louise Alexander, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977