A chemical weapons inspector, Flying Doctor, New Inventors judge, United Nations advisor and a leading Australian theatre director are just a handful of the 34 distinguished graduates named as finalists in this year’s Alumni Awards.

The awards recognise inspiring achievements across eight categories.

World renowned theatre director David Berthold (Bachelor of Arts 1986) is one of Australia’s most prominent directors and since 2008 has held the position of Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of La Boite Theatre Company, Brisbane.

He is one of three finalists for the Newton-John Award, which is presented to a graduate displaying innovation or creativity that improves life.

Berthold has directed for most of Australia’s major theatre companies and in London’s famed West End and was a resident singer with the English National Opera company.

Fellow finalist is Karen Carey (Diploma of Music Education 1969), who was the subject of an inspiring 2010 documentary Mrs Carey’s Concert, which follows the Sydney girls’ school music director as she prepares her students for a concert at the Opera House.

Other notable Alumni Award finalists include:

• Convocation Medal for Professional Excellence finalist Professor Jennelle Kyd, who has developed a vaccine for the prevention of bacterial middle ear infection in children

• International Leadership Award finalist Dr Awni AI-Otoon, who is an inspector for the International Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

• Regional Leadership Award finalist Dr Anne Wakatama, who was the first female appointed to the role of General Manager of the Royal Flying Doctor Service

• Young Alumni Award finalist Dr Nikola Bowden, who developed her own independent research on the personalised diagnosis and treatment of cancer

For a full list of finalists visit www.newcastle.edu.au/alumni/awards/uon.html

For more information contact University of Newcastle Media and Public Relations Officer Tess Campbell on 02 4921 5120 or 0439 624 521.