ECU Chancellor, Gaye McMath, Hon. Dr Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC and Mrs Tonya McCusker AM with Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock
This special event, held in the Spectrum Project Space, was hosted by Professor David Shirley, Executive Dean of WAAPA, who warmly welcomed guests including ECU Chancellor Gaye McMath, Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock, members of University Council, the WAAPA Advisory Board and ECU's Executive team. Honorary Doctorates Dr Malcolm McCusker and Dr Heather Zampatti were also in attendance, adding further distinction to the evening.
The event featured the Twisted Vision art exhibition by ECU's new Creative Research Fellow, Dr Martina Mrongovius. A showcase from Martina's internationally acclaimed holographic art for the first time in Western Australia. Providing guests a special glimpse of what's to come with the Visual Arts program planned for ECU City.
The event was an opportunity to thank the generous individuals and organisations who have supported WAAPA over the decades - those whose contributions have helped make the Academy one of Australia's premier performing arts training institutions.
"For more than forty years, the enduring generosity of our donor community has been fundamental to WAAPA's growth and success," Professor Shirley said.
Now, as we prepare to move to our new City campus, we are driven by a bold vision - to position WAAPA among the world's leading performing arts institutions.
Guests were treated to a preview of WAAPA's creative talent, with introductions to two major student productions - Rise, led by WAAPA's Head of Dance Dr Sue Peacock, and Merrily We Roll Along, presented by Music Director Craig Dalton. These productions exemplify the exceptional standard of work made possible through donor support.
Professor Shirley acknowledged the key role of partners like the Minderoo Foundation, WAAPA's Principal Partner, and the McCusker Charitable Foundation, whose generous contribution has helped establish an endowed fund to ensure the Academy's future excellence, internationalisation and sustainability. Special thanks were also extended to Jamelia Gubgub and David Wallace, whose support enabled the Academy's collaboration with acclaimed Dutch choreographer Nils Christie and his creative partner Annegien Sneepz.
"This evening is about you, our incredible supporter base," Professor Shirley said.
"You are directly contributing to the next generation of performing artists in Perth, across Australia and around the world. When you see the talent on stage tonight, know that it is your generosity that helps make it all possible."
As the evening drew to a close, guests enjoyed refreshments and conversation before moving across campus to enjoy the evening's performances. The occasion was also a poignant reminder that this is WAAPA's final performance season at Mount Lawley before the Academy's exciting move into ECU City in 2026.
The spirit of gratitude and optimism filled the room—a fitting tribute to the donors whose support is shaping the future of performing arts education in Western Australia.
(L-R) Annegien Sneep and Nils Christie (Dutch choreographer visiting artists for Rise) with Dr Sue Peacock and Kim McCarthy (WAAPA Dance).
(L-R) Jemma Rowe (Minderoo Foundation), ECU Chancellor Gaye McMath, Andrew Baker (Minderoo Foundation), ECU Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock and Imogen Castledine (Minderoo Foundation).
(L-R) Dr Heather Zampatti, David Wallace, Jamelia Gubgub, Dr Sue Peacock and Zelinda Bafile
(L-R) Lauren Murray (Rise choreographer) and Alexander McKinnon
(L-R) ECU alumnus, Derek Gerrard with wife, Kylie.
