Phil Hunt, Electrical Projects Manager within Property – Building Services, was recently recognised for his 40 years of service to Macquarie (also pictured below with his team in 1995). Here he reflects on how Macquarie has changed over the years.
“I started at Macquarie as an apprentice electrician in 1974 and became the first one to successfully complete the program. It was a very different university back then, with many of the original 1940s –1950s cottages still scattered around the campus grounds. These were often used by various faculties, particularly the science disciplines.
Where the M2 now stands were various ‘live-in cottages’ including for the Caretaker Gardener, and the Artist-in-Residence. Also on the grounds of the Artist-in-Residence dwelling stood the ‘ancient’ Jug House Theatre, which was the predecessor to the current Lighthouse Theatre.
I was witness to, and heavily involved in, so many aspects of the changing face and structure of Macquarie over 40 years. One of the most challenging projects was the completion of the Cogen Plant Substation as an extension to the former Library (building C7A), now the MUSE (Macquarie University Spatial Experience), and its associated electrical infrastructure upgrade. The staged project, which lasted from 2006 – 2008, included the complete revamp of the Campus Hub in the Central Courtyard. I am proud to say that the project was successfully completed without any significant disruption or interference to the University’s operation.
I have seen enormous change over the last 40 years, which I believe is increasing exponentially. By 2056, our campus will be virtually unrecognisable from today, except for heritage-listed buildings, in areas where it is possible to sustainably upgrade. This transformation is also reflected in the local environment with the rapidly changing landscape in the Macquarie Park/North Ryde region.
The ever-changing nature of technology, the growth in competition in the Australasian region, and increased student expectations are all drivers in escalating change, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
To hear more about Macquarie’s history, consider doing a self-guided campus history walk.
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