Wendy Palmer, Coordinator Site Services in the Macquarie University Library, was recognised for 40 years of service at the recent Staff Anniversary Celebration.

Here, Wendy reflects on her time at Macquarie and how it has changed over the years.

What was your first role at Macquarie University?

I started at Macquarie on 5 April 1982 as a General Library Assistant in the Audio Visual (AV) section of the library. I don’t think I ever expected to be here this long. I enjoyed helping support students make the most of library resources and working with the academics who used AV as part of their teaching. Now my focus is keeping the library building in good condition.

What has been the most enjoyable project to work on?

Being part of the teams involved in the coordination of the physical move – books and people – from the old library to the new library in 2011 was one of the most enjoyable, most tiring and most exhilarating projects that I have worked on.

How has the University campus changed over your 40 years?

The size of the campus has grown immensely, particularly with the increase in the number of buildings, students and cars on campus. The introduction of the internet was also a game changer and changed how the campus operates. Most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we operate and keep safe.

Is there a special memory you would like to share?

A special memory during my time here is when the 2000 Olympic torch passed along University Avenue, and hosting the Canadian Olympic team on campus. Macquarie was the only university in Sydney to be included on the Torch Relay route to Homebush Bay for the commencement of the Sydney Olympic Games.

Another special memory of mine is the Conception Day breakfasts, which were held on the median strip of what was then Epping Highway (now Epping Road). Students used to dress up and have a full breakfast at a table in the middle of peak hour.