Flinders pays tribute

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 the use of Vincent Copley’s name and image.

Louise Hincks

Highly respected colleague and brave CFS volunteer Louise Hincks was sadly killed in January, while helping to save the lives and properties of others from a bushfire. Louise was a respected member of the University’s Health, Counselling and Disability Services team, providing support to students and staff.

A committed, skilled and supportive member of the Counselling team, her death is a huge shock and loss.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students) Professor Romy Lawson paid tribute to Louise, who will be remembered by all for her selfless dedication.

“Louise’s dedication and commitment to her work at Flinders was echoed in her selfless volunteering for the CFS. Reflecting the serious nature of the fires in South Australia’s South East, Louise requested and received leave from her role at Flinders to answer the CFS call for volunteers,” says Professor Lawson.

“She will be remembered as a fearless and dedicated CFS volunteer who always stepped up to assist in any emergency, and truly embodied our values of excellence, integrity and courage.”

Vincent (Vince) Copley

Ngadjuri Elder and activist Vincent (Vince) Copley passed away peacefully at his home in Goolwa early this year.

Mr Copley grew up in residential care, where he met other influential First Nations people including Charles Perkins, Gordon Briscoe and John Moriarty. Mr Copley was part of an extraordinary group that would go on to achieve excellence in education and sport and use their determination to lead the campaign for change in Australia.

Lifelong friend and colleague Professor Claire Smith remembers a man who was passionate about protecting and promoting Aboriginal rights and cultures.

“He generously shared his knowledge with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people,” Professor Smith says. “He was a wonderful teacher and mentor.”

Professor Dean Jaensch

Prominent and highly respected political scientist, Emeritus Professor Dean Jaensch AO, passed away in January. He was 85.

A highly respected political analyst with expertise in electoral politics, voting systems, political
behaviour and political parties, 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.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling describes Professor Jaensch as one of the most notable political scientists of his generation.

“Fiercely intellectual, Professor Dean Jaensch was never afraid to speak his mind or to engage in
vigorous but respectful debate. He encouraged his students to observe keenly, think deeply and act without fear or favour, making him a mentor par excellence,” says Professor Stirling.

“Known and respected by generations of South Australians for decades of columns he wrote for The Advertiser and appearances on ABC radio and television, and for commercial radio, Professor Jaensch will be missed for his wit and wisdom. The political firmament has lost a shining star with Professor Jaensch’s passing.”

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