Out of the Woods in print
Held at ECU's Spectrum Project Space, the afternoon brought together colleagues, classmates, and friends to reflect on the unique history of Mount Lawley Teachers College and its transformation into ECU. The event was an opportunity to look ahead, as the campus prepares to close in 2026 before the university relocates to its new City campus.
ECU Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock was in attendance, alongside Executive Dean of the School of Education, Professor Caroline Mansfield.
L-R Glen Phillips, Professor Clare Pollock, Professor Caroline Mansfield, Sybe Jongeling
Professor Mansfield delivered an address thanking the dedicated committee of alumni and former staff for their years of work preserving these invaluable stories.
"These remarkable history books do more than chronicle the events and milestones of our university; they bring to life the people, places, and moments that have shaped our identity,"
The full committee: L-R Sybe Jongeling, John Sherwood, Phil Pearson, Glen Phillips, Neil Kidd, Tony Metcalfe, Marjorie Bly, Rivka Niesten, Jack Bana, Terry Watt, and Dr Len McKenna
The e-book captures memories and milestones of the ECU Mount Lawley Campus from 1970 to 1980, brought to life through contributions from all the authors.
"Your commitment has given us a gift of significance, one that honours the past while inspiring the future." Professor Mansfield said.
Foundation students Rivka Niesten, Marjorie Bly, Terry Watt, and Neil Kidd are also continuing this legacy, documenting the student and staff experiences that shaped life at Mount Lawley during this formative era.
Importantly, the committee hopes that future generations will continue to build upon this work by adding their voices, memories, and experiences to preserve the rich history of Mount Lawley for decades to come.
Professor Pollock with ECU's oldest Alumni, Dr Len McKenna
The launch was complemented by Through the Lens, a photographic exhibition by Photomedia alumni and current students, which highlighted the character and meaning of the campus through striking visual storytelling.
Out of the Woods is now available online at the ECU Library, offering a lasting record of the pioneering vision and community spirit that continues to define ECU.
