It is with great sadness that Flinders University acknowledges the recent passing of several members of our community.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following story contains images and names of people who have died. The family has given permission for Vincent Copley’s name and image to be included.

Professor Leanne Armand BSc ’90
Flinders science graduate Professor Leanne Armand passed away in January. She had an outstanding career as a micropalaeontologist and a leader of marine geoscience. Professor Armand’s career culminated as Director of the Australian and New Zealand International Ocean Discovery Program Consortium, and she held roles on peak bodies including the National Marine Science Committee. Read more

Peter Dunn BA(Hons) ‘78
Flinders Drama Centre graduate Peter Dunn passed away in January. After heading up a very successful and dynamic acting school at Whyalla TAFE, in 1987 Peter was hired by the Centre for the Performing Arts, which became part of the Adelaide College of the Arts, where he worked until his retirement. Peter, along with his wife Margaret, retired to a small farm near Eudunda, where he became a mail contractor, member of the Goyder Council and joined the board of Country Arts of SA.

Vincent (Vince) Copley AM
In January, Ngadjuri Elder and activist Vincent (Vince) Copley passed away peacefully at his home in Goolwa. Vincent grew up at St Francis Anglican Home in Port Adelaide, where he met other influential First Nations people including Charles Perkins, Gordon Briscoe and John Moriarty. This extraordinary group would go on to achieve excellence in education and sport, and use their determination to lead the campaign for social change in Australia. Vincent worked closely with Flinders University’s Professor Claire Smith. Read more

Louise Hincks GradCertLGTC ’16, MSW ’16, GradCertCogBehavTherapy ’18
A highly respected Flinders University graduate and colleague, Louise Hincks sadly died in January while helping to save lives and properties during a bushfire, in her role as a CFS volunteer. A committed and skilled member of Flinders University’s Health, Counselling and Disability Services team, Louise provided support to Flinders students and staff. Read more

Emeritus Professor Dean Jaensch
Prominent and highly respected political scientist, Emeritus Professor Dean Jaensch AO, passed away in January aged 85. Professor Jaensch was noted for his trenchant observations on the machinations of state and federal Australian governments, with a particular focus on politics and personalities in South Australia and the Northern Territory. A lecturer in politics and international studies at Flinders University for nearly 30 years, Professor Jaensch was popular for his engaging and dynamic teachings, as well as his diverse talents as an academic, political historian, author, commentator and columnist. Read more

Craig Johncock BEd(PhysEd) ’75
Flinders physical education graduate Craig Johncock passed away in late December. Craig was a most respected and admired leader of sport and physical education, including 18 years at St John’s Grammar and 25 years working in the SA Education Department. Craig was the Co-President of the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation in SA, which shared an online tribute, ‘Craig was highly regarded for his advocacy of health, physical education and sport, and well known for his work ethic, work with the AFL and for his enthusiasm for community work. Craig’s love of sport and for young people and his passion for the promotion of health and physical activity was life-shaping for many people.’ Read more