This information will be updated as new information comes to hand.

I would like to thank everyone involved in securing the University campuses during the storm and cleaning up over the long weekend.

The excellent work by many staff, led in my absence by Kevin McConkey, has meant that the University has been able to open all campuses for operation today. Particular mention should be made of the work done by the staff of Facilities Management and Security who have worked tirelessly over the last few days.

Work on all campuses is continuing and I ask all staff to be patient as the clean up continues. Newly discovered damage should be reported to Trevor Gerdsen via email at Trevor.Gerdsen@newcastle.edu.au who will prioritise the work to be undertaken.

Exams are being held and the exam schedule will be maintained as much as possible. It seems that about 75% of students have been able to attend this morning's exams. Alternative examination times will be organised for those students who are unable to attend the scheduled exams. Students who have been seriously affected by the weekend's events should submit a special consideration application as soon as possible. These will be considered sympathetically.

A blanket extension of time for assignments due in the week commencing last Friday (8 June) has been granted until this Friday 15 June, and further extensions are possible on request.

Students and staff should continue to check this website for the latest information, including alternative examination arrangements which will be announced as they are put in place. Students can also call the enquiry centre on 49215000.

My thoughts are with the many people who have been seriously affected by the events of the past days. The University's focus is now on supporting our students, our staff and their families, and the Newcastle community as much as possible over the coming weeks.

Professor Nicholas Saunders
Vice Chancellor and President