Introducing the
2025 UQ Alumni
Award winners
Introducing the 2025 UQ Alumni Award winners
The University of Queensland Alumni Awards recognise 9 prestigious categories of accomplishment and celebrate alumni who have achieved outstanding success in their careers and in service to their communities.
In 2025, we celebrate 15 winners who have had an extraordinary impact in fields including international diplomacy, media, cancer treatment, native title law, entrepreneurship and literature.
Follow the links below or continue scrolling to read their stories.
The University of Queensland Alumni Awards recognise 9 prestigious categories of accomplishment and celebrate alumni who have achieved outstanding success in their careers and in service to their communities.
In 2025, we celebrate 15 winners who have had an extraordinary impact in fields including international diplomacy, media, cancer treatment, native title law, entrepreneurship and literature.
Follow the links below or continue scrolling to read their stories.
UQ ALUMNUS
OF THE YEAR
Created by Alumni Friends to recognise an alum whose distinguished achievements have brought national or international recognition to UQ. It celebrates the significant contributions made by alumni in the local community and beyond.
Dr Brett Robinson
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery 1992
King’s College
Awarded for leadership in rugby governance, advocacy for player welfare and contributions to healthcare and education.
Dr Brett Robinson is a highly regarded leader in both the Australian community and in global sport, with a distinguished career spanning professional rugby, philanthropy and executive leadership.
As a former Wallaby with 16 Test caps and the inaugural captain of the ACT Brumbies, Robinson’s impact on Australian rugby has been profound. Beyond his on-field achievements, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s future governance. In 2024, he was appointment as the first Southern Hemisphere chair of World Rugby, in addition to his roles as Deputy Chair of Rugby Australia and member of the World Rugby Executive Board.
Dr Robinson is widely admired for his commitment to player welfare and safety. He has been a leading advocate for concussion research, collaborating closely with UQ’s Queensland Brain Institute to improve understanding and protocols around brain injuries in sport.
Outside of rugby, Dr Robinson has applied his leadership skills in healthcare and aged care, currently serving as CEO of RetireAustralia. His dedication to education is reflected in his tenure as president of King’s College from 2015 to 2022, where he played a key role in its transition to a co-residential institution. He remains an active supporter of the college, demonstrating his commitment to investing in the next generation.
Dr Robinson’s career exemplifies the integration of sporting excellence, medical expertise and visionary leadership, marking him as a respected figure both on and off the field.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by giving me the belief that anything was possible – by teaching me that if you work hard, maintain your curiosity and stay true to yourself and your values you can achieve whatever you set your mind to."
VICE-CHANCELLOR'S ALUMNI EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Recognising the significant contributions made by The University of Queensland alumni in their local communities and beyond.
Anne-Marie Birkill
Master of Business Administration (Executive) 2002
Awarded for pioneering investments in science and technology, advancing innovation and championing women’s leadership in business.
Anne-Marie Birkill is a respected company director and investor with deep expertise in science and technology ventures. As co-founder and director of OneVentures, she helps manage over $900 million in funding for tech, healthcare and science-based companies.
She sourced OneVentures’ investment in UQ spinout Vaxxas, which has since raised $300 million for its needle-free vaccine delivery platform. She also led the firm’s investment in Charm Health, later acquired by ASX-listed Citadel Group.
Birkill is a strong advocate for gender equity, mentoring women and assuming leadership roles in organisations that support women in entrepreneurship, STEM and venture capital.
She serves as a Director for UniQuest and InterFinancial Corporate Finance, and chairs the board of ASX-listed PPK Group. She also chairs the Project Investment Committee and sits on the Industry Steering Committee for the UQ-lead Trailblazer Food and Beverage Accelerator.
Previously, she was CEO of the i.lab Incubator, supporting over 100 startups.
"I love the Albert Einstein quote: ‘Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.’ Trying new things can be frightening, but more frightening is simply standing still."
Anne-Marie Birkill
Master of Business Administration (Executive) 2002
Awarded for pioneering investments in science and technology, advancing innovation and championing women’s leadership in business.
Anne-Marie Birkill is a respected company director and investor with deep expertise in science and technology ventures. As co-founder and director of OneVentures, she helps manage over $900 million in funding for tech, healthcare and science-based companies.
She sourced OneVentures’ investment in UQ spinout Vaxxas, which has since raised $300 million for its needle-free vaccine delivery platform. She also led the firm’s investment in Charm Health, later acquired by ASX-listed Citadel Group.
Birkill is a strong advocate for gender equity, mentoring women and assuming leadership roles in organisations that support women in entrepreneurship, STEM and venture capital.
She serves as a Director for UniQuest and InterFinancial Corporate Finance, and chairs the board of ASX-listed PPK Group. She also chairs the Project Investment Committee and sits on the Industry Steering Committee for the UQ-lead Trailblazer Food and Beverage Accelerator.
Previously, she was CEO of the i.lab Incubator, supporting over 100 startups.
"I love the Albert Einstein quote: ‘Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.’ Trying new things can be frightening, but more frightening is simply standing still."
Elizabeth Jameson AM
Bachelor of Arts 1985
Bachelor of Laws 1988
Awarded for outstanding service to education, the arts and community governance.
Elizabeth Jameson AM has had a distinguished 30-year career in corporate governance and consultancy with a strong commitment to the arts, education and community service.
She has held leadership roles with Queensland Theatre, Brisbane Festival and Queensland Music Festival, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Queensland.
Jameson served on the Brisbane Girls Grammar School board for 24 years, including 12 years as Chair, highlighting her long-term dedication to education. A fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, she currently serves as volunteer Chair of the Endeavour Foundation, which supports people with intellectual disabilities, and as a Director of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health and C&K – The Creche and Kindergarten Association.
In recognition of her extensive service to education, the arts and business, Jameson was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2020. Her leadership across sectors highlights a sustained commitment to enriching community life through governance and advocacy.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by teaching me to think in an analytical way and exposing me to people from different walks of life who think about problems differently."
Elizabeth Jameson AM
Bachelor of Arts 1985
Bachelor of Laws 1988
Awarded for outstanding service to education, the arts and community governance.
Elizabeth Jameson AM has had a distinguished 30-year career in corporate governance and consultancy with a strong commitment to the arts, education and community service.
She has held leadership roles with Queensland Theatre, Brisbane Festival and Queensland Music Festival, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Queensland.
Jameson served on the Brisbane Girls Grammar School board for 24 years, including 12 years as Chair, highlighting her long-term dedication to education. A fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, she currently serves as volunteer Chair of the Endeavour Foundation, which supports people with intellectual disabilities, and as a Director of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health and C&K – The Creche and Kindergarten Association.
In recognition of her extensive service to education, the arts and business, Jameson was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2020. Her leadership across sectors highlights a sustained commitment to enriching community life through governance and advocacy.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by teaching me to think in an analytical way and exposing me to people from different walks of life who think about problems differently."
Arthur Liu
Bachelor of Engineering 1996
Master of Commerce (Information Systems) 1998
Awarded for significant contributions to property development, philanthropy and cultural leadership.
Arthur Liu is managing director of Liming Group, overseeing ventures in property development, hospitality and biotechnology. He is recognised as one of Brisbane’s leading business figures with significant contributions locally and internationally.
In 2004, Liu co-founded Kinstone Group, delivering residential and commercial projects across Queensland. In 2018, he drove a major investment in Brisbane’s tourism sector through the development of the Novotel Hotel in South Bank. More recently, he has expanded into biotechnology, investing in probiotics.
Liu has received multiple awards, including the Lord Mayor’s Business Award and Property Council Australia’s Best Tourism and Leisure Development Award. He was also named Corporate Citizen of the Year 2021 by the Lord Mayor of Brisbane. A committed philanthropist, he has supported scholarships and initiatives at UQ such as the Liu Family Young Achievers Program Scholarship.
Over his 30 years of diverse responsibilities, Liu served as President of Buddha’s Light International Association Queensland, directing cultural and charitable initiatives locally and internationally.
"Everyone should experience studying across 2 or more different disciplines — and the more different, the better. Crossing boundaries between fields allows us to see the world from multiple perspectives."
Arthur Liu
Bachelor of Engineering 1996
Master of Commerce (Information Systems) 1998
Awarded for significant contributions to property development, philanthropy and cultural leadership.
Arthur Liu is managing director of Liming Group, overseeing ventures in property development, hospitality and biotechnology. He is recognised as one of Brisbane’s leading business figures with significant contributions locally and internationally.
In 2004, Liu co-founded Kinstone Group, delivering residential and commercial projects across Queensland. In 2018, he drove a major investment in Brisbane’s tourism sector through the development of the Novotel Hotel in South Bank. More recently, he has expanded into biotechnology, investing in probiotics.
Liu has received multiple awards, including the Lord Mayor’s Business Award and Property Council Australia’s Best Tourism and Leisure Development Award. He was also named Corporate Citizen of the Year 2021 by the Lord Mayor of Brisbane. A committed philanthropist, he has supported scholarships and initiatives at UQ such as the Liu Family Young Achievers Program Scholarship.
Over his 30 years of diverse responsibilities, Liu served as President of Buddha’s Light International Association Queensland, directing cultural and charitable initiatives locally and internationally.
"Everyone should experience studying across 2 or more different disciplines — and the more different, the better. Crossing boundaries between fields allows us to see the world from multiple perspectives."
Lis Wiehl
Master of Literary Studies 1985
Awarded for excellence in legal analysis and contributions to literature.
Lis Wiehl has established a notable career that bridges the fields of law, journalism and writing. She is a New York Times bestselling author, former US federal prosecutor and legal analyst, known for over 15 years of expert commentary on major US news networks, including Fox News Channel.
Wiehl began her career as a trial lawyer for the US Department of Justice and federal prosecutor before joining the University of Washington School of Law as a tenured faculty member, where she directed the Trial Advocacy Program.
She has published 20 books, both fiction and non-fiction. Her recent investigative work, A Spy in Plain Sight, has been recognised for its thorough research and compelling narrative.
Wiehl serves on the boards of Channel Islands YMCA Youth and Family Services and the Peace Studio. She also supports emerging writers through mentorship and endorsements.
"I was a competitive long-distance runner through high school and into college. I was happy to win, but it was the occasional loss that made me train harder and think smarter. I think the experience of failing grounds us, and, if we let it, makes us stronger."
Lis Wiehl
Master of Literary Studies 1985
Awarded for excellence in legal analysis and contributions to literature.
Lis Wiehl has established a notable career that bridges the fields of law, journalism and writing. She is a New York Times bestselling author, former US federal prosecutor and legal analyst, known for over 15 years of expert commentary on major US news networks, including Fox News Channel.
Wiehl began her career as a trial lawyer for the US Department of Justice and federal prosecutor before joining the University of Washington School of Law as a tenured faculty member, where she directed the Trial Advocacy Program.
She has published 20 books, both fiction and non-fiction. Her recent investigative work, A Spy in Plain Sight, has been recognised for its thorough research and compelling narrative.
Wiehl serves on the boards of Channel Islands YMCA Youth and Family Services and the Peace Studio. She also supports emerging writers through mentorship and endorsements.
"I was a competitive long-distance runner through high school and into college. I was happy to win, but it was the occasional loss that made me train harder and think smarter. I think the experience of failing grounds us, and, if we let it, makes us stronger."
INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD
Recognising an alum whose outstanding contribution to Australian Indigenous communities has improved outcomes for Indigenous peoples and contributed to reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
Kevin Smith
Bachelor of Laws 1995
Awarded for leadership in native title law, advancing Indigenous land rights and fostering reconciliation through effective governance.
Kevin Smith is President of the National Native Title Tribunal (NNTT), appointed in 2023 as the first First Nations person to lead the organisation. He is a Torres Strait Islander with traditional ties to Ugar (Stephen Island). In his role at the NNTT, Smith oversees core tribunal functions, including arbitration, mediation and agreement-making assistance in complex native title matters across Australia.
Smith has more than 30 years’ experience in native title law and Indigenous advocacy. From 2008 to 2023, he was CEO of Queensland South Native Title Services (QSNTS), where he guided the organisation through 29 native title determinations, commencing with the historic Quandamooka people’s native title recognition, the first determination in Southern Queensland. Under his leadership, QSNTS played a key role in securing legal recognition and land rights for multiple Indigenous communities.
Smith’s extensive experience and leadership continue to shape native title processes and support Indigenous self-determination across Australia.
"Native title is where ancient, yet vibrant traditional laws and customs of our First Nations meet the comparatively modern Australian legal system to create a third unique intercultural space – one that is complex and evolving with as many big challenges to overcome as there are seeds of opportunity waiting to germinate. I have the privilege of working in this space daily and not one day is the same, but each is as rewarding as the next."
INTERNATIONAL ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR
Recognising an international alum who has achieved distinction in their chosen field and whose accomplishments enhance the prestige of the University.
Her Excellency Winnie Kiap CBE
Bachelor of Arts 1977
International House
Awarded for distinguished diplomatic service, championing gender inclusion and elevating Papua New Guinea’s international profile.
Image courtesy Commonwealth Foundation
Image courtesy Commonwealth Foundation
Her Excellency Winnie Kiap CBE is an eminent Papua New Guinean diplomat and global leader in governance reform.
She was the first woman appointed Secretary to Papua New Guinea’s National Executive Council
(1998–2008). From 2011 to 2022, Her Excellency Kiap served as Papua New Guinea’s High Commissioner to the UK, one of the longest diplomatic postings in the nation’s history. From London she was accredited to Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, South Africa and Zimbabwe. She chaired the Commonwealth Secretariat Board of Governors from 2016 to 2018, working alongside a female Commonwealth Secretary‑General – a landmark moment of female leadership at the highest levels of the Commonwealth. In 2025, Her Excellency Kiap became the first female Pacific Islander to chair the Commonwealth Foundation.
Named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2015 and Diplomat of the Year for Most Contributions to the Commonwealth in 2018, she is a champion of reform and gender inclusion, actively supporting legislative change to combat family and gender-based violence through Coalition for Change PNG.
"I would like to ensure that the next generation understands that all life on the planet has a symbiotic relationship and should be respected, conserved and protected. That the planet itself is under threat. That they must do all that they can to ensure their children and children’s children have a future."
COLLEGES' UQ ALUMNI AWARD
Recognising an alum who has made an outstanding contribution to UQ and a residential college and continues to make a positive impact on the wider community, nationally or internationally.
Professor Jeffrey Dunn AO
Bachelor of Science 1980
Master of Social Planning and Development 1992
Doctor of Philosophy 2000
St John’s College
Awarded for outstanding leadership in oncology research, medical administration and global cancer control initiatives.
Professor Jeffrey Dunn AO is a pioneer of community-based cancer control and world-renowned leader in cancer control, psycho-oncology and patient-centred care.
Professor Dunn is currently Chair of Cancer Survivorship, University of Southern Queensland; Chief of Mission and Head of Research at the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia; and Deputy Chair, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service Board. He has served as Secretary of the International Psycho-oncology Society, President of the Asia Pacific Organisation for Cancer Prevention and most recently as President of the Union for International Cancer Control from 2022 to 2024, spotlighting Australia on the world stage of global cancer control.
Stanford University lists Professor Dunn among the top 2% of scientists globally. He was named an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2014 for his service to medical administration and cancer control. In 2025, he was honoured as a Queensland Great for his contributions as a world cancer leader, researcher and advocate.
"My time at St John’s College opened doors for me to a world previously unknown, fostering lifelong friendships, personal responsibility and, importantly, encouraging service – to actively take a seat at the table and contribute and be a part of the solution."
GATTON GOLD MEDAL
Recognising an alum who is a graduate of the UQ Gatton campus or the Queensland Agricultural College (QAC) and has achieved outstanding success in their chosen field.
Julia Spicer OAM
Bachelor of Environmental Management 2001
Awarded for advancing regional development, sustainability and entrepreneurship, strengthening rural and remote Australian communities.
Julia Spicer OAM is a nationally recognised leader in regional community development. Since founding Engage & Create Consulting in 2012 and the Goondiwindi Business Hub in 2013, Spicer has delivered strategic planning and workforce initiatives across rural and regional Australia.
In 2022 she received the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to regional business and community organisations. From 2022 to 2024 she served as Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur – becoming the first based outside a capital city – with a focus on equitable and sustainable innovation.
Spicer is Deputy Chair of the Advisory Board for Australia’s Economic Accelerator. Elected as a councillor for the Goondiwindi Regional Council in 2024, she holds the water and sewerage portfolio. Known for her empathy and impact–led leadership, Spicer exemplifies the power of
regional entrepreneurship.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by connecting me with lifelong friends who are all working on what is important to them! Many of us might not exactly be working in the field of our original study, but we all started our path together at Gatton – such a great campus for us all to meet each other and know each other, regardless of degree or subjects."
CONTRIBUTION TO SPORT ALUMNI AWARD
Recognising an alum for their outstanding contribution to sport and the positive impact this has on the wider community, nationally or internationally.
Nick Politis AM
Bachelor of Economics 1965
Certificate in Provisional Accountancy 1965
Awarded for longstanding leadership in rugby league, sports marketing innovation and philanthropic contributions to community health and sport.
Nicholas Politis AM is a pioneering businessman who has served as Chairman of the Sydney Roosters since 1993. Politis broke new ground in 1976 by introducing the first ever jersey sponsorship in Australian professional sport – a move that redefined revenue models across codes.
Under his leadership, the Roosters have won 4 National Rugby League (NRL) premierships – 2002, 2013, 2018 and 2019 – and 5 minor premierships, along with 4 World Club Challenge titles, establishing the club as a benchmark of excellence.
Politis’s strategic vision reshaped league governance through roles on the Australian Rugby League Board and NRL Partnership Committee. Through a major philanthropic gift, he established the Nick Politis AM and Family Cancer Care and Research Initiative at St Vincent’s Hospital.
Recognition of Politis’s outstanding service to the community includes appointment as Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and New South Wales Rugby League Life Membership.
"A UQ memory that shaped who I am today is the collaboration – working in groups and sharing ideas with people of diverse backgrounds. This helped in developing critical thinking skills and learning how to best analyse, question and look at problems from different angles to find solutions."
DISTINGUISHED YOUNG ALUMNI AWARDS
Recognising alumni aged 35 years or younger whose early accomplishments inspire and provide leadership to students and alumni.
Alastair Blenkin
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Laws 2014
King’s College
Awarded for transforming construction procurement and leadership in technology entrepreneurship.
Alastair Blenkin is a values–driven leader transforming construction procurement across Australia, New Zealand and the UK through his role as CEO of ProcurePro.
Beginning his career with law firm MinterEllison, Blenkin pivoted to entrepreneurship in 2017 as a participant in the UQ Ventures iLab Accelerator program. His first start-up was Hyra iQ, an AI-powered digital contract negotiation and management platform.
He then launched ProcurePro in 2021 – a category defining, nationally recognised procurement platform now used by top builders, powering over $80 billion in construction value.
Blenkin’s innovative leadership earned him the 2024 Brisbane Young Entrepreneur – Technology Award. He was also named in the Queensland 40 under 40 awards in 2023 and Airwallex’s Top 20 UK Step Changers for 2024.
Blenkin generously shares his talents as a mentor to other founders, including through continued involvement with the UQ Ventures program.
"What I love most about the work I do today is the impact. Construction employs 10% of the world and shapes every part of our lives – the schools we learn in, the homes we live in, the hospitals we heal in, the roads we travel on."
Alastair Blenkin
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Laws 2014
King’s College
Awarded for transforming construction procurement and leadership in technology entrepreneurship.
Alastair Blenkin is a values–driven leader transforming construction procurement across Australia, New Zealand and the UK through his role as CEO of ProcurePro.
Beginning his career with law firm MinterEllison, Blenkin pivoted to entrepreneurship in 2017 as a participant in the UQ Ventures iLab Accelerator program. His first start-up was Hyra iQ, an AI-powered digital contract negotiation and management platform.
He then launched ProcurePro in 2021 – a category defining, nationally recognised procurement platform now used by top builders, powering over $80 billion in construction value.
Blenkin’s innovative leadership earned him the 2024 Brisbane Young Entrepreneur – Technology Award. He was also named in the Queensland 40 under 40 awards in 2023 and Airwallex’s Top 20 UK Step Changers for 2024.
Blenkin generously shares his talents as a mentor to other founders, including through continued involvement with the UQ Ventures program.
"What I love most about the work I do today is the impact. Construction employs 10% of the world and shapes every part of our lives – the schools we learn in, the homes we live in, the hospitals we heal in, the roads we travel on."
Hannah Ferguson
Bachelor of Laws (Honours) 2020
Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing 2021
International House
Awarded for pioneering accessible, critically engaged media that advances insightful social commentary and engages diverse audiences.
Hannah Ferguson is a visionary media leader and founder of Cheek Media, reaching millions with accessible, feminist commentary that translates complex political issues into relatable content. Her work empowers diverse audiences and fosters inclusive public discourse.
In 2024, Ferguson was named on Forbes Australia’s 30 Under 30 list and received a nomination in marie claire’s Women of the Year awards. She has collaborated with Bumble on civic engagement campaigns, represented the Australian Conservation Foundation as national ambassador and addressed the National Press Club on media transparency.
In 2025, Ferguson announced her intention to run for the Senate as an independent in 2028, aiming to inspire political participation among young women. Known for her integrity, courage and deep engagement with important issues, Ferguson is helping a new generation to shape the future of public dialogue.
"I want the next generation to feel emboldened to demand more from the institutions and systems of power we exist under, and to ask how we can change them to benefit all."
Hannah Ferguson
Bachelor of Laws (Honours) 2020
Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing 2021
International House
Awarded for pioneering accessible, critically engaged media that advances insightful social commentary and engages diverse audiences.
Hannah Ferguson is a visionary media leader and founder of Cheek Media, reaching millions with accessible, feminist commentary that translates complex political issues into relatable content. Her work empowers diverse audiences and fosters inclusive public discourse.
In 2024, Ferguson was named on Forbes Australia’s 30 Under 30 list and received a nomination in marie claire’s Women of the Year awards. She has collaborated with Bumble on civic engagement campaigns, represented the Australian Conservation Foundation as national ambassador and addressed the National Press Club on media transparency.
In 2025, Ferguson announced her intention to run for the Senate as an independent in 2028, aiming to inspire political participation among young women. Known for her integrity, courage and deep engagement with important issues, Ferguson is helping a new generation to shape the future of public dialogue.
"I want the next generation to feel emboldened to demand more from the institutions and systems of power we exist under, and to ask how we can change them to benefit all."
James Gillespie
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) 2020
Awarded for exposing healthcare accessibility gaps and influencing government reforms to improve affordable care.
James Gillespie is the founder of Cleanbill, an independent healthcare directory that has transformed public understanding of General Practitioner (GP) accessibility and influenced healthcare policy.
Gillespie’s first start-up MindTheGap, founded in 2017 while he was still studying at UQ, became the largest healthcare comparison database in Australia after just 5 years. With ambitions to grow something on an even larger scale, Gillespie then taught himself to code data collection programs in order to found Cleanbill in 2022.
Cleanbill’s landmark Blue Report research has exposed critical gaps in primary care accessibility across Australia. Its annual findings have become part of the national dialogue on accessible care, generating significant media coverage and contributing to lobbying efforts for expanded funding. Gillespie also created Cleanbill’s free online directory, aiding over 75,000 Australians in finding affordable, available GP care by verifying pricing and availability data directly with clinics.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by providing me with the insight, experiences and understanding necessary to act with confidence no matter the circumstances. Studying commerce and law at UQ gave me this confidence."
James Gillespie
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) 2020
Awarded for exposing healthcare accessibility gaps and influencing government reforms to improve affordable care.
James Gillespie is the founder of Cleanbill, an independent healthcare directory that has transformed public understanding of General Practitioner (GP) accessibility and influenced healthcare policy.
Gillespie’s first start-up MindTheGap, founded in 2017 while he was still studying at UQ, became the largest healthcare comparison database in Australia after just 5 years. With ambitions to grow something on an even larger scale, Gillespie then taught himself to code data collection programs in order to found Cleanbill in 2022.
Cleanbill’s landmark Blue Report research has exposed critical gaps in primary care accessibility across Australia. Its annual findings have become part of the national dialogue on accessible care, generating significant media coverage and contributing to lobbying efforts for expanded funding. Gillespie also created Cleanbill’s free online directory, aiding over 75,000 Australians in finding affordable, available GP care by verifying pricing and availability data directly with clinics.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by providing me with the insight, experiences and understanding necessary to act with confidence no matter the circumstances. Studying commerce and law at UQ gave me this confidence."
Anna Podolsky
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Science 2012
Awarded for transforming Australia’s pet food industry through sustainable innovation and responsible entrepreneurship.
Anna Podolsky is founder and CEO of Lyka, a company transforming Australia’s pet food industry with fresh, human-grade meals. Since 2018, Lyka has delivered over 90 million meals to dogs across Australia.
Podolsky has positioned Lyka as Australia’s only carbon-negative dog food company, sourcing 85% of ingredients locally and planting over 250,000 native trees to support sustainability. Under her leadership, Lyka has challenged industry norms by combining quality nutrition with
environmental responsibility.
Prior to founding Lyka, Podolsky worked as a Management Consultant at Bain & Company in Australia, the US and Latin America. She is fluent in English, Russian, and Spanish and brings a global mindset to every aspect of her work. Earlier, she was a nationally ranked rhythmic
gymnast and co-founded the gymnastics team at Brisbane State High School, leading it to 3 consecutive state titles.
"Working internationally was an incredible lesson in adaptability. Experiences like that not only build self-awareness and emotional intelligence, but they also give you fresh perspectives."
Anna Podolsky
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Science 2012
Awarded for transforming Australia’s pet food industry through sustainable innovation and responsible entrepreneurship.
Anna Podolsky is founder and CEO of Lyka, a company transforming Australia’s pet food industry with fresh, human-grade meals. Since 2018, Lyka has delivered over 90 million meals to dogs across Australia.
Podolsky has positioned Lyka as Australia’s only carbon-negative dog food company, sourcing 85% of ingredients locally and planting over 250,000 native trees to support sustainability. Under her leadership, Lyka has challenged industry norms by combining quality nutrition with
environmental responsibility.
Prior to founding Lyka, Podolsky worked as a Management Consultant at Bain & Company in Australia, the US and Latin America. She is fluent in English, Russian, and Spanish and brings a global mindset to every aspect of her work. Earlier, she was a nationally ranked rhythmic
gymnast and co-founded the gymnastics team at Brisbane State High School, leading it to 3 consecutive state titles.
"Working internationally was an incredible lesson in adaptability. Experiences like that not only build self-awareness and emotional intelligence, but they also give you fresh perspectives."
UQ GRADUATE
OF THE YEAR
Created by Alumni Friends, and awarded to a recent graduate who exemplifies the values of the University and demonstrates academic excellence.
Quinn Jones
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) 2024
Awarded for outstanding academic achievement and contributions to cultural heritage preservation in partnership with community.
Quinn Jones is a heritage consultant and archaeologist currently working with Converge Heritage in Brisbane, specialising in site surveyance and excavation.
A key aspect of his work involves liaising with Traditional Owners, stakeholders and regulatory authorities to deliver culturally sensitive outcomes – for example, when working with the UQ Archaeology Field School, he collaborated with Traditional Owners to survey a culturally significant shell midden complex at Stuarts Point, NSW, using advanced survey methods.
Jones graduated from UQ with 6 Dean’s Commendations and Class 1 Honours in Archaeology. He has also served as a volunteer with The Wilderness Society, assisting with door knocking campaigns and other community outreach programs.
"My UQ education opened doors for me by broadening my social and intellectual horizons. It opened my eyes to different ways of being and seeing, challenging me to reconsider my own received ideas about the world."
Congratulations to our 2025 UQ Alumni Award winners.
To view previous recipients please follow the link below.
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