International recognition for Flinders visual effects and design course
Flinders University and CDW Studios’ Bachelor of Visual Effects and Entertainment Design has been recognised as a Houdini Certified School for 2026–2027 by SideFX, following a rigorous assessment by an international panel of industry experts.
The achievement provides Flinders students with access to free educational Houdini licenses for home use, while recent graduates can access complimentary commercial licenses to support their transition into industry.
Associate Professor Jason Bevin, Course Coordinator for Visual Effects and Entertainment Design, said the certification highlights the quality of Flinders’ curriculum, staff expertise and the exceptional work of students.
“It strengthens our ability to provide graduates with the advanced skills and industry experience needed to succeed in the global creative industries,” Associate Professor Bevin said.
The certification further reinforces Flinders University and CDW Studios’ position as leaders in creative technology education and commitment to producing work-ready graduates for the visual effects, animation, games, and virtual production sectors.
Flinders scientist invited to speak at event hosted by Governor General
Last week, Associate Professor Mihir Wechalekar was invited to speak at a special event at Kirribilli House in Sydney to mark 75 years of Arthritis Australia and how the organisation is helping improve the lives of more than seven million Australians living with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
The event, which was hosted by the Governor General (GG) of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, brought together researchers, clinicians, industry partners and community advocates to recognise innovative research in the field and significant advances made in care, research and advocacy.
Associate Professor Wechalekar spoke on his role as the Chair of the Arthritis Australia Grants Assessment Committee (the largest non-governmental granting body for arthritis and musculoskeletal grants) and as a rheumatologist-clinician-scientist from Flinders University and Flinders Medical Centre.
The speech was with specific reference to Flinders’ arthritis research, its impact and that of the Arthritis Australia National Grant Program.
Flinders student elected SA’s Youth Governor
Flinders University law and international relations student Madison Spencer has been elected as South Australia’s 32nd Youth Governor.
Spencer was elected by her peers during the 31st South Australian Youth Parliament held at Parliament House last week, which brought together more than 90 young leaders who debated topics that matter most to them, ranging from AI regulation to youth homelessness.
As Youth Governor, Spencer will take the lead on shaping solutions on political issues that matter most to young people, working alongside her peers to drive meaningful change.
Reflecting on the appointment, Spencer told InDaily that she looks forward to working alongside other Youth Parliamentarians to “hear their diverse experiences, develop meaningful solutions and connect them with key stakeholders and educational pathways to further their individual journeys as young leaders”. Read more.