Donna Tonkin: Rural medicine, reinvention and resilience

Navigating personal challenges and career detours, Donna Tonkin found her true calling in rural medicine at UOW.

The power of two: Grace McCarthy and Payyazhi Jayashree’s impact on UOW

An instant connection sparked a collaboration that has made UOW’s Business School a leader in transnational education

Meet the artist behind UOW’s Disability Guide cover

Tracy Davis on art, inclusion and finding her passion

Welcome to The Stand Magazine

We showcase the impact of UOW students, teaching, research, and graduates on the world. Our mission is to share inspiring stories that educate and motivate, highlighting the transformative power of education in addressing global challenges.

50 Voices

This year, as part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations, we have launched 50 Voices - a content series that celebrates the people who have made UOW what it is today. From labs to libraries, lawns to lecture theatres, hear unique stories from students, staff, alumni, donors, and community members who have had a lasting impact.

Articles

Working for change

In the early 90s Paul Power landed what was then considered a sought-after job in journalism on a regional daily that was one of the first in Australia to embrace colour in its page design.

A life-changing gift

It is a gesture that is, as yet, unquantifiable. But the impact on the health of our communities is full of possibility.

Food for thought

When it comes to mental health and behaviour, the brain has long been thought of as the primary therapeutic target – with mixed results and often undesirable side effects. But a growing body of evidence suggests that our diet and gut microbiota could play a much bigger role than first thought.

A passion for public service

Who would have thought that when Gareth Ward became the disabilities officer at the University of Wollongong, that – fast forward almost 20 years – he would be the first NSW Minister for Disability Services who actually had a disability?

Nursing on the front line

If you were stranded on a deserted island – or in a jungle, or a conflict zone, or in the middle of an earthquake – what would you take? You’d take Russell Banks, if you wanted to survive. The no-fear nurse has saved countless lives in all kinds of remote locations and precarious situations – and has ample tales to tell from his many adventures.

parkrun: the 5-kilometre community

How this worldwide event is promoting active lifestyles, encouraging volunteers and building a community.