Students and staff of the College were delighted to welcome alumnus Lord Michael Hintze back to our Dining Hall, where he spoke of his time as a student in the 1970’s and of his storied business career, which has ultimately led to his appointment to the House of Lords. He is one of only a small list of Australians who have been awarded a seat in the upper house of the United Kingdom.  

Prior to the Dinner, Lord Hintze walked around the College, and took time to point out where his freshman room was. He also took time to survey the beautiful Hintze Building, of which he was the primary benefactor. He noted how things had changed and altered since he attended College, and in how much better shape it is looking. 

As for the Dinner itself, Lord Hintze was introduced by 2022 House President Max Heywood, while the College’s other House President for 2022, Jemma Couillault, introduced the Chancellor of the University of Sydney. Lord Hintze spoke about his life for around 20 minutes on the theme of ‘To whom much is given, much will be expected’ (Luke 12:48), before presenting our annual Rawson, Rosebowl and Palladian Awards. After Lord Hintze finished speaking, a Q&A session was hosted by alumnus Andrew Coorey, where students were able to ask questions of Lord Hintze and other guests. Music was then provided by Dean of Students (Arts) Mary-Jean O’Doherty, who sang a stirring rendition of Pie Jesu - which was a fitting end to the Feast of All Souls’ Day. The College is grateful to the Chairman of Council, Mr John Coorey, for giving the vote of thanks to conclude the evening. 

A copy of Lord Hintze’s speech will be provided early in the new year. 

Special guests on the night included the former Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon. Tony Abbott AC (and a College alumnus), the current Chancellor of the University of Sydney, Ms Belinda Hutchinson AC, who spoke to the College about the honour of living at The University of Sydney, and the Most Rev Bishop Terence Brady, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Sydney.

To read more about Lord Hintze’s time at college and his career, click here.

To see the full album of photos from the evening, click here. (use password Polding22)

To watch Lord Hintze delivering his speech click here.