Judy Nolan - University of Wollongong Mace Bearer

Judy Nolan has been the Mace bearer at the University of Wollongong’s graduation ceremony for the past ten years.  In her position she acts as a guide to the Chancellor and academics and precedes the procession into, and out of the University hall. In her position she is well placed to provide some interesting insights into this very historic occasion.


Tell us about your role at Graduation?
I am the Mace Bearer for the University of Wollongong and lead the Chancellor and Academic procession into the hall.  Personally, to be the Mace Bearer is a huge honour for me, to be the first female to hold this position is a double honour.  

What is the significance of the Mace?
The Mace bears a lot of significance to the graduation ceremony, bringing a sense of formality and weight to the occasion.  Graduation ceremonies date back to the 12th and 13th century, although we look towards the 21st century at UOW it is important to uphold the traditions of those who have gone before.
Our particular Mace was designed and crafted by local Illawarra artist Gino Sanguineti and presented to the University in 1988.  It’s wonderful to see the local elements that were included in the design, the stainless steel head that was styled to form the Illawarra Flame Tree flower from the University’s coat of arms and the rough finish which symbolises the industrial area that was the beginnings of Wollongong.  

Have you seen anything humorous or odd in the time you have held this position?
My role is all about the timing.  I remember one particular ceremony where the Deputy Chancellor was filling in for the Chancellor.  I misjudged the speed at which the Deputy Chancellor would move through the ceremony and almost missed the exit procession!  I had to run from the Administration Building (36) all the way over to the University Hall in my gown to make it in time – I looked like a big blue bat in full flight!  I made it just in time and luckily, I had decided to wear red under my gown on this particular day so my face matched my outfit.  

Anything particularly touching?
I never tire of seeing the smiles on the faces of the graduands, they’re so excited and happy that their day has come.  This can only be matched by the smiles on their family and friend’s faces too; there are always lots of beaming parents taking photos of their children with their testamurs on the lawn, with their lecturers and friends.  At such a wonderful occasion you can’t help but be swept up in the excitement of it, no matter how many times I’ve attended.  I also like to see the grandaunds dressed up for the occasion.  I’m used to seeing students walking around campus in jeans and trainers carrying their textbooks and pens.  This is their first formal occasion so its nice to see the International students in their national dress and the domestic students in the Sunday best.

Have UOW graduations changed over time?
As the university has grown so too have the graduation ceremonies.  There are more degrees, more specialisations and many more students starting out in the world!