Kerr named distinguished ECU alumnus

South 32 chief executive Graham Kerr and WA's chief nursing and midwifery officer Robina Redknap took out the top prizes at ECU's distinguished alumni event overnight.

Those honours, which were delivered at a ceremony held at WA Museum, were handed out to 10 graduates in a wide array of categories, including international achievement and community work.

Dr Redknap’s award was in recognition for her work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said that having spent most of her career in healthcare, she believed every challenge was an opportunity.

“This past year has clearly demonstrated the multiple roles and functions that nurses and midwives provide as frontline healthcare professionals,” she said.

“We need a workforce that can lead and deliver innovative models of care that meet the needs of our community now and into the future,” she said.

Steve Chapman, the university’s vice chancellor, hailed the importance of nurses during the state’s pandemic response.

“Recognising Robina’s valuable contribution to public health and mental health could not be more timely,” he said.

Mr Kerr, who has served as managing director of South32 since 2014, took out his award for work advocating on behalf of women in the workplace, with Professor Chapman, calling him an outstanding leader.

“He has been prepared to challenge his industry in fundamental ways such as gender equality and sustainability,” he said.

Former 40under40 winner Briege Whitehead, meanwhile, was honoured for her international achievements, having founded White Spark Pictures in 2017 and created the VR-drive film The Antarctica Experience in 2020.

She earned the award alongside Linda Oh, a jazz musician who has performed alongside the likes of the Dave Douglas Quintet and Pat Metheny.

Retired nurse Anita Clayton, social worker Emily O’Shea, music director Samuel Parry and musician Meg Mac were among the list of other honourees.