L-R ECU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clare Pollock; Minderoo Foundation CEO John Hartman; Director and Chairman of the McCusker Charitable Foundation, Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC; Director and Administrator of the McCusker Charitable Foundation, Tonya McCusker AM; ECU Chancellor Gaye McMath; WAAPA Executive Dean, Professor David Shirley
On Friday, 20 March, Edith Cowan University (ECU) celebrated its first major donor event, marking another first for the new ECU City Campus.
The event brought together key supporters, partners, and members of the University community to acknowledge transformational contributions that have helped shape the future of ECU and its flagship performing arts academy, the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
Held within the newly opened ECU Gallery and Minderoo Centre for Performance Excellence, the evening commemorated several significant milestones, including the naming of the Centre following a historic gift from the Minderoo Foundation, WAAPA's Principal Partner, the opening of the McCusker Recital Hall, and the inaugural performance of the Premier Visiting Artist Program.
Hosted by the Chancellor and Chair of the ECU Foundation, Gaye McMath, the significance of the event was matched with a decorated room of guests: from former Chancellors of the University to Honorary Doctorates, representatives from government departments and ECU's most generous and loyal donors including CEO of the Minderoo Foundation, John Hartman and the entire Board from the McCusker Charitable Foundation led by Dr Malcolm McCusker AC CVO KC and Mrs Tonya McCusker AM.
Recognising leadership and generosity
ECU Chancellor Gaye McMath acknowledged the profound impact of philanthropic support on the University's mission and growth.
She noted that the new campus stands as a direct result of collective generosity, with donors playing a central role in bringing the vision to life.
"I have seen first-hand the difference that philanthropic support makes to our university's mission of transforming lives and making our community a better place through education and the arts," she said.
Chancellor McMath extended her thanks to the Minderoo Foundation, whose contribution has enabled the establishment of the Minderoo Centre for Performance Excellence and supported the Premier Visiting Artist Program.
"The Minderoo Foundation is WAAPA's Principal Partner, and through the Minderoo Centre for Performance Excellence, we look forward to experiencing extraordinary creative performances and witnessing the benefit of bringing the world's best performers to WAAPA to work with our students," Chancellor McMath said.
L-R: Former ECU Chancellor (2019-2020) and former Governor of Western Australia (2014-2018), Hon Kerry Sanderson AC CVO, with ECU Chancellor, Gaye McMath
She also recognised the McCusker Charitable Foundation, whose gift has been honoured through the naming of the McCusker Recital Hall.
"The trust that you have placed in us with your remarkable gift is truly transformational," Chancellor McMath said.
A landmark event for WAAPA
Executive Dean of WAAPA, Professor David Shirley, described the evening as a milestone for the Academy and its community of supporters.
L-R: Dr Charlie Bass and Mrs Sylvia Bass, with Executive Dean of WAAPA, Professor David Shirley
He highlighted the significance of welcoming donors into the new campus for the first time and sharing in a series of inaugural moments.
"This is a night of firsts in many ways," Professor Shirley said.
"It is our first time bringing our closest supporters into the ECU City campus and our first shared experience in the Minderoo Centre for Performance Excellence."
Professor Shirley emphasised the enduring impact of donor contributions across the University, from student scholarships to major programs and facilities.
"As we enjoy tonight's performance, let us remember that what you make possible as supporters extends far beyond the stage," he said.
Celebrating artistic excellence
The evening featured a performance by internationally renowned pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk, the inaugural Premier Visiting Artist supported by the Minderoo Foundation.
His residency at WAAPA has included direct engagement with students, offering mentorship and artistic guidance.
Dr Tonya Lemoh, Head of Classical Piano at WAAPA, said the opportunity for students to learn from an artist of Gavrylyuk's calibre is significant.
She described his contribution as one that passes on deep artistic knowledge and inspires the next generation of performers.
Honouring place and community
The event commenced with a Welcome to Country by ECU alumnus Barry Winmar, acknowledging the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation and recognising their enduring connection to the land.
Prior to the performance, guests were welcomed into the ECU Gallery for its inaugural exhibition, Roads Taken, which reflects the University's history through its art collection.
Looking ahead
The event underscored the critical role of philanthropy in shaping the future of ECU and WAAPA, particularly as the University expands its presence in the heart of Perth.
Professor Shirley reaffirmed the importance of continued support across all areas of the University, including teaching, research and community engagement.
"Whether it be scholarships, teaching and learning programs, research projects or community outreach initiatives, there are many areas where your support can make a difference," he said.
As ECU enters this new phase, the evening served as both a reflection on what has been achieved and a clear signal of the opportunities ahead.
To be involved in the legacy built by our donors, visit giving.ecu.edu.au
