A friend to all bids farewell

He describes becoming the first Tasmanian farmer to be awarded the Medal of Agriculture by the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science (Tasmanian Division) as a career highlight.

He was the 39th owner-woolclasser in the country and in 1992 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to the Australian wool industry.

Mr McEwan has always strived to give back, whether through his deep commitment to the community, sharing his passion for music, or in the agricultural industry.

One of the most powerful manifestations of his generosity and commitment to the future generation of farmers was the establishment, in 2017, of the David McEwan Scholarship in Agriculture. It provides an opportunity for aspiring agriculture students to attend the University of Tasmania.

“It’s my way of giving something back to the industry that has given me a wonderful life,” he said.

“There are huge challenges ahead and it’s going to take a certain amount of hard work and dedication, but there are wonderful opportunities in Australia.”

Over the years Mr McEwan has met many of his scholarship recipients, a special experience for both parties.

Febey Peace, the inaugural scholarship recipient, said she was proud and honoured to learn about Mr McEwan’s achievements.

“Mr McEwan seemed very humble after all he achieved from his hard work throughout his life,” she said.

The 2021 recipient of the scholarship, Bachelor of Agricultural Science student Tomas Thiessen-Delaney, thanked Mr McEwan for his immense support.

“I will use this to allow myself to have the greatest impact I can on the agricultural industry,” Tomas said.

Tomas’s goal is to find economically and socially efficient practices that are also environmentally sustainable.

“As an Indigenous person, I also hope to be involved in creating opportunities and resources in the industry that benefit communities and aim to close the gap of Aboriginal disadvantage,” he said.

RHONDA EWART RETIRES AFTER AN INCREDIBLE SIX DECADES OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

After serving and supporting the University of Tasmania for 63 years, our longest-serving employee and cherished philanthropist, Rhonda Ewart is celebrating her retirement. During Rhonda’s career, which began in 1958, she has made outstanding contributions in student administration, examinations, public relations, scholarships and fundraising. Since 1999, she has been a vibrant and valued part-time member of the Advancement Office. In addition to her professional services, Rhonda is a generous donor, as well as being a Foundation Governor, Member of the Vice Chancellor’s Circle, and a Friend of the University. Rhonda set up the Zoe Ewart Scholarship in Law to honour the memory of her mother. The scholarship encourages talented students to explore legal and justice issues at tertiary level. The Rhonda Ewart Honours Scholarship in Dementia Care provides an honours scholarship in perpetuity to be awarded to a student undertaking Honours in Dementia Care with the Wicking Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania. Upon her retirement, Rhonda was awarded the distinction of becoming a Professional Fellow in recognition of her exceptional and sustained service to the University of Tasmania over more than six decades.

It recognises her deep commitment to the University and continuing support of its students.

Rhonda Ewart