La Trobe University Bendigo Head of Campus and passionate advocate for regional and rural development and education, Marg O’Rourke OAM, has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List.
Marg O’Rourke has been instrumental in servicing the Greater Bendigo community; bringing a wealth of knowledge, deep connections across central Victoria and leadership experience to the Head of Campus role, which she commenced in January this year.
La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell congratulated Marg on her outstanding achievement and said this a reflection of her broader commitment to the community.
“It is wonderful to see Marg’s outstanding leadership and significant contribution to the Bendigo community, including in regional tertiary education, recognised in this way,” Professor Farrell said.
Marg’s many successes include being the first Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo to hold the position for four consecutive terms. The Bendigo Campus Head is also heavily engaged across multiple industry boards, including V/Line, as well as Chair of Bendigo Kangan Institute.
Among her achievements, Marg is a proud advocate for First Nations People and has supported embedding Traditional Owner engagement and recognition into City of Greater Bendigo practices.
Humbled by the recognition, Marg said she is deeply grateful to make the King’s Birthday Honours List.
“It is a great honour to be recognised for my work in being a voice for the region,” Marg said.
“I’ve had the privilege of serving my community as Mayor and as Councillor, and I will continue championing higher education in regional and rural communities including through my current role as La Trobe Bendigo campus head.
“I look forward to ensuring La Trobe’s Bendigo campus continues to remain connected and engaged with communities across the Loddon Campaspe region.”
Professor Farrell also acknowledged all the other recipients of this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.
“I’d like to also extend my congratulations to all of this year’s King’s Birthday Honours recipients from across La Trobe and the extraordinary commitment they have shown to their communities,” Professor Farrell said.
