USC will award an Honorary Senior Fellowship to Mooloolaba GP Dr Peter Welsh at the first of four graduation ceremonies to be held over 16-17 April.

Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Birgit Lohmann said Dr Welsh was highly regarded for his work as a medical practitioner at Maroochydore and Mooloolaba, and the University had been extremely fortunate to benefit from his expertise.

Professor Lohmann said Dr Welsh had contributed to and supported the discipline of Sport and Exercise Science at USC for more than a decade.

“Dr Welsh has offered generous and unwavering support to the University, including many guest lectures, multi-disciplinary research collaboration and years of exacting work on USC’s Human Research Ethics Committee,” she said.

“Joining this committee in 2001, Dr Welsh’s lengthy service clearly demonstrates his long-standing commitment to the University and his contribution to research growth.”

Professor Lohmann said Dr Welsh, through his generous voluntary service, had set the standard for engagement between the University and the region.

Dr Welsh said receiving the Honorary Senior Fellowship was both unexpected and a great honour.

“It’s been a great joy to watch the University evolve over the past two decades and it’s been an honour to play a small part in this evolution,” he said.

“Now, as I wind down my general practice commitments, I plan to continue my involvement with the University.”

The honorary award will be presented to Dr Welsh at a graduation ceremony starting at noon on Thursday 16 April.

More than 1,200 students will graduate from USC this semester.

— Brent Hampstead