We invite you to celebrate and share your achievement with friends and family here in Armidale Attend Graduation Weekend and make memories that last a lifetime
Coming to your graduation ceremony on the lawns of historic Booloominbah Homestead is one of the highlights of your study with the University of New England Please join us and make it a weekend to remember!
What to do, where to stay and how you can make the most of your graduation visit
Take your pick—Armidale and nearby Guyra, Uralla and Walcha have a range of motels, hotels, cottages, bed and breakfasts, Airbnb accommodation, farm stays, caravan parks and guesthouses to choose from Whatever your needs and style, you’ll find the perfect place to stay
Just be sure to book early!
Abbotsleigh Motor Inn
The Abbotsleigh Motor Inn is conveniently located in the Armidale city centre with a fine selection of restaurants, supermarkets, the twin cinema, cathedrals, historic buildings and a number of relaxing parkland areas just a short stroll away .
Acacia Motor Inn
Located centrally on Miller Street, The Acacia Motor Inn offers excellent value accommodation in Armidale .
Airbnb
With over 100 stays in the Armidale region, Airbnb is an excellent accommodation option for your graduation weekend .
All Seasons Inn
The All Seasons Motel is family owned and operated accommodation that aims to provide a warm, comfortable and enjoyable stay .
Alluna Motel Armidale
Alluna Motel is a family owned business offering a variety of affordable room types to choose from, and is just a short wise away from the city centre .
Armidale Inn
Located just off the New England Highway overlooking Armidale from its scenic hilltop location, the Armidale Inn is situated just a short drive away from both UNE & the centre of town .
Armidale Pines Motel
Located right in the centre of town, the Armidale Pines Motel offers the latest in spacious accommodation with quality furnishings .
← Peterson’s Winery & Guesthouse
Armidale Tourist Park
Armidale Tourist Park is an affordable and accessible accommodation option in the Armidale region
Aurelia’s Farm & Cottage
Fresh local produce, home cooking and cosy accommodation with a rural outlook, just two minutes’ drive from Uralla
Cedar Lodge Motel
Perfect option for those looking for spacious, modern accommodation with all modern appliances & a central location Cedar can offer accommodation for groups of up to six people
City Centre Motor Inn
Take the time to enjoy iconic street art and sustainable accommodation in this refurbished classic country motel in the heart of Armidale .
Club Motel Armidale
The Club Motel Armidale offers outstanding motel accommodation in the centre of town, boasting spacious and modern rooms .
Cotswold Gardens Armidale
Offering a unique accommodation experience, this boutique motel is set on the grounds of the historic “Cotswold” homestead .
Country Comfort Armidale
Country Comfort Armidale offers 42 spacious ground floor and first floor rooms with free WiFi and off-street car parking .
Deer Park Motor Inn
Deer Park Motor Inn is your convenient and comfortable Armidale accommodation just minutes away from UNE Their rates include a free continental breakfast and there’s even deer to be fed
Elite Motor Inn
A 4-star motel at reasonable prices, Elite Motor Inn provide a friendly, affordable stay for all guests
Estelle Kramer
Located in the heart of Armidale, the Estelle Kramer is renowned for its comfort, convenience and charm
Hideaway Motor Inn
Offering special rates for UNE students and their parents, the Hideaway Motor Inn will provide you with good clean facilities at reasonable prices
Lindsay House
Relax in a boutique guesthouse set in a spacious garden in the heart of Armidale, with luxury suites featuring antique furniture
Moore Park Inn
Treat yourself to luxury accommodation in the New England with Executive, Deluxe or Standard Suites available at Moore Park Inn
Peterson’s Winery & Guesthouse
Enjoy this historic farmhouse, restaurant and winery, just a short drive from the centre of town
Rydges Hotel Armidale
Discover Armidale’s first 4 5-star hotel, featuring modern accommodation, a restaurant, and wine and tapas bar
Sandstock Motor Inn Armidale
Family-owned and operated motel, Sandstock Motor Inn is a clean, spacious and affordable accommodation option in the heart of Armidale
Tattersalls Hotel
Completely renovated in Art Deco style, containing boutique hotel accommodation, you might be mistaken for having arrived at a hotel in the centre of a major city
Two Styx Cottage and Cabins
No better way to wind down after celebrations than by bushwalking and trout fishing Two Styx’s brand new, fully equipped cabins are located right next to the New England National Park
Westside Studio Apartments
Located just near the UNE Armidale Campus, Westside Studio Apartments offers clean and comfortable amenities at a great value
↗ City Centre Motor Inn
→ Rydges Armidale
Enjoy scenic drives through gorgeous farmlands and national parks, with excursions to savour waterfalls, swimming holes and marvellous views . In town, stop for a meal or a drink, discover a range of fashions in local boutiques or browse through a bookstore or two
Explore beautiful historic churches, schools, houses and one of the best regional art galleries in the country .
→ New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM)
Armidale Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place
Learn about local Indigenous culture and history at this significant community centre .
Armidale Teachers’ College
Explore the original home of regional education in NSW The foyer of this magnificent building features portraits of past principals and teachers .
Bookstores
Browse for books at some of the best bookstores in regional NSW—second-hand treasures at Boobooks and an eclectic mix of literature and music at Reader’s Companion .
Fleet Helicopters
Fly over the gorges and waterfalls with Fleet Helicopters or in one of their historic warbirds .
New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM)
Explore the home of the nationally significant Howard Hinton Collection (featuring works by Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts, Margaret Preston and many others), known for its exhibitions, displays and great gift shop .
The great outdoors
Explore the Oxley Wild Rivers, Cathedral Rock and New England national parks, containing an abundance of wildlife and breathtaking scenery A wide range of walks are available to suit all ages and abilities .
Saumarez Homestead
Take a wander around this Edwardian mansion and be transported back to 19th-century Australian pastoral life Saumarez Homestead is perfect for the whole family; bring a picnic, take a stroll and enjoy the extensive English-style gardens .
Markets In the Mall
Stop by the Markets In the Mall on the last Sunday of every month for some delicious food and warm coffee . Shop fresh local produce and beautiful handmade products from a wide range of local makers
Trout fishing
Try your luck at Dumaresq Dam, in the Oaky and Serpentine rivers, or the many trout streams in the area Canoes are available
→ Saumarez Homestead
← Reader’s Companion
The New England region is full of hidden delights to discover and opportunities to enjoy our beautiful landscape
No matter what time of year you visit, the New England weather is sure to turn it on . Four perfect seasons—from beautiful spring and clear summer days to gorgeous autumn colours and perhaps even winter snow What’s not to like?
On your drive to Armidale for graduation, or an easy day trip from the city itself, there is much to enjoy .
It’s worth the trip—why not take time out? Relax and stay the weekend .
An exciting journey of discovery linking Armidale to Coffs Coast weaving through national parks, epic waterfalls, gorges and magical forests .
The Blue Hole
A favourite picnic spot dating back to the New England University College days . Pack your swimmers in summer and check out the historic hydro-electric scheme on the peaceful walking track
Dobson’s Distillery & Eastview Estate, Kentucky
Enjoy lunch and international, award-winning gins and other quality spirits and liqueurs made here by the talented Dobson family
McCrossin’s Mill Museum, Uralla
Encounter the story of the bushranger Captain Thunderbolt and learn about our Chinese mining heritage in this refurbished 19th century flour mill
New England Brewery, Uralla
Try a craft brew with a difference, made using local ingredients and brewed on wood, or dine on pizzas cooked onsite .
Waterfall Way
Be serenaded by the sounds of the bush as you experience one of Australia’s most gorgeous scenic drives . It links Armidale with the Dorrigo mountain village, the creative community of Bellingen and the beaches of Coffs Harbour and Sawtell
Visit the Armidale Visitor Information Centre on Marsh Street, where volunteers can provide further information about local attractions, events and accommodation
Experience the highs - Visit Armidale
Armidale, Country NSW - Accommodation, things to do & more | Visit NSW
Armidale Taxis – Safe, reliable and efficient taxi services! Or call 131 008
From steaks to sushi, Armidale boasts a range of bars, pubs, cafés and restaurants where you can celebrate with family and friends .
Choose from a variety of different cuisines including Italian, Thai, Japanese, modern Australian and more
Check online for opening times and menus
With so many cafés and coffee shops to choose from, you could become a coffee connoisseur by the end of the graduation weekend Start your morning the right way with coffee or tea made just the way you like it, accompanied by a delicious breakfast using local produce .
Running out of time? Grab a takeaway coffee or even have your hot drink of choice delivered right to your door .
Altitude Coffee House
Armidale Coffee House
Black Kat Espresso
Cafe Life
Caffiends in the Mall
Courthouse Coffee
Daily Ritual Armidale
Enjoy a relaxed lunch good enough to satisfy even the pickiest eater and finish your meal with a sample of sweet treats
Armidale really is spoilt for choice when it comes to cafés .
Double Drop Espresso
Era Espresso
Fat Goose Crossing
Herdie’s Coffee
Kawa Tea
Kinship Kitchen
L’Atelier Patisserie
Seesaw Coffee Co
Six Counties
The Alternative Root
The Goldfish Bowl
Westside Espresso
Whether you have a large group of friends to celebrate with or or you’re planning an intimate family gathering, the restaurants in town can cater for every taste with a broad range of cuisines to choose from Savour a woodfired pizza from Signor Vertelli followed by homemade gelato next door at Signora Gelato Try Ezidi dishes at the Minnie Barn or authentic Nepalese at Luniva MoMo’s where the dumplings are always a favourite .
Fancy Japanese? Then the team at Paper Tiger serve yummy yakitori and karaage that both big and small people enjoy, or grab some
sushi and sashimi from Hao Sushi and Grill . Both restaurants offer dine in or take away if you would prefer to stay at home .
Feeling fancy? Then Tattersalls or Azka restaurants are an ideal choice with both offering a-la-carte menus featuring quality produce .
There are many places around town to go to for lunch or dinner, but be sure to book early to avoid disappointment as Armidale becomes a vibrant and busy place over graduation weekend
↑ Signor Vertelli
↗ Azka Restaurant at Rydges Armidale
A&J Vietnamese
An Indian Affair
Azka Restaurant, Wine & Tapas
Hao Sushi & Grill
Mandarin Chinese restaurant
Manny’s On Marsh
Luniva MoMo Nepalese Restaurant
Mun Hing Chinese Restaurant
Neville’s Store
Paper Tiger
PJ Thai
R&H Curry House
Signor Vertelli & Signora Gelato
Tattersalls Hotel
Thai Home
The Bistro Grill
The Cottage Restaurant
The Manor Restaurant at Cotswold Gardens
The Mill Bistro
Wonder Chinese Restaurant
A local brewery or a craft beer and spirits bar Both are great options to go for celebratory drinks after you graduate
Feeling peckish? Great Hops offers wings, burgers, tacos and American bar snacks to share with the group The Welder’s Dog
Great Hops Brewing Co
allows you to bring in your favourite take away or better yet, order delivery straight to their door
Both establishments can get a bit crowded so make sure you arrive early to secure a spot or contact them to book a table
The Welder’s Dog
There are times when all you want is a great pub meal, and Armidale and Uralla are renowned for its pubs . All located within
The Railway Hotel
The Royal Hotel
St Kilda Hotel
The Bolt Inn
The Grand Hotel
town and open for lunch and dinner, there are a number of options to suit any budget .
The Top Pub
The Whitebull Hotel
The New England Hotel
What to do on campus, alumni, scholarships and gown tips
A picturesque campus with a rich history; home to diverse activities, thriving colleges and the odd free-range kangaroo!
Australia’s first regional university was established in 1938 when the New England University College opened in historic Booloominbah Homestead with just five lecturers and 24 students . More than 80 years
later, the University of New England is home to thousands of students, some of whom live on campus in residential colleges
Graduation visitors are welcome to wander the beautiful university campus, where you can explore museums, dine at cafés and restaurants, and meet our resident wildlife .
← Natural History Museum
↙ Mountain Bike Trail
Booloominbah Homestead
The grand country house designed by architect John Horbury Hunt for prominent colonial grazier Frederick White, completed in 1888, is now at the heart of UNE . Enjoy coffee or lunch at the Booloominbah Collection café or explore the ground floor artworks and impressive Gordon stained-glass window
Natural History Museum
Discover the ‘Lightning Claw’ dinosaur and a range of fascinating Australian wildlife specimens collected and studied by UNE staff and students
Museum of Antiquities
Discover antiquities from the ancient Mediterranean and near east, with objects and ethnographic research collections from
Australia, South-East Asia, New Guinea, the Pacific region, Mesoamerica and Africa .
University of New England Heritage Centre
Visit the Dixson Library or Armidale Teachers’ College (in town) for historical exhibitions and displays from the UNE archives and art collections .
SportUNE and mountain bike trails
Feeling active? Head to the fully equipped SportUNE complex, the gateway to our first-class, custom-built world championship mountain bike trail network .
Or perhaps the 2km Parkrun (Saturdays at 8am) is more your style?
Don’t wait—book your accommodation early .
• If your graduation is on the lawns of Booloominbah, tell your family and friends to wear hats Sunscreen is also available at the UNE Alumni stand
• Equally, New England weather can be unpredictably cold Arrive prepared by packing something warm
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are invited to participate in a special pre-graduation Sashing Ceremony at Oorala Aboriginal Centre, which is one of the highlights of the day
• Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning in Armidale can seem pretty sleepy, but you’ll find a number of cafés and pubs open, the farmers’ markets on Sundays, or you can visit NERAM or the Armidale Art Gallery for a look around .
• Take a drive around the region and drop into Uralla for the best pie on the New England Highway, a beer tasting at the Brewery, or enjoy a tipple at Dobson’s Distillery in Kentucky .
Visit The Shop to see all UNE merchandise, giftware and more!
Did you know . . .
When you purchase through UNE Life, you’re helping future graduands reach their potential as well All money spent with UNE Life goes back into the student experience and amenity, on campus
Remember!
Be sure to fill out your Graduation Services Order Form as early as possible to ensure you have everything prepared for your graduation day UNE Life Graduation Services
Find us online and at our Armidale campus The Shop
Celebrate your success and support future UNE scholarships .
Recognise your achievement by joining more than 900 others on the Graduates’ Walk .
Your tax-deductible donation directly assists students through scholarships, and your contribution is recognised with a personal paver .
For more information please visit Graduates’ Walk
What do you love about agriculture and where did your interest come from?
I grew up in the Hunter Valley of NSW and got a passion for agriculture in high school
I love the people in agriculture the most – they are laid back, focused, and hold themselves to a high standard I saw these traits in my ag teacher and decided to pursue a career in ag During my degree, I was lucky enough to work on local sheep and cattle properties, which increased my appreciation of rural communities .
What are your plans now that you’ve finished studying?
I was lucky enough to be recruited into a graduate program with one of the preeminent regenerative agriculture asset management firms in Australia, based in Armidale I began working with them parttime in my fourth year and have been very lucky to have some passionate mentors in the company .
I see my next couple of years as part of this team, helping to scale regenerative ag across the country .
What have been some of your biggest challenges and achievements during your study journey?
Navigating an unpredictable study schedule due to COVID outbreaks was probably the biggest challenge in my degree .
I was supported by a tight-knit Rural Science cohort, who managed to stay connected under the challenging circumstances
I’m most proud of participating actively in the university and Armidale community, which was acknowledged by a New England Award at graduation
I owe a lot to the Heads of College and the college student leaders, who guided me through my degree
How did you navigate your work-life balance as a student?
The short study years and long summer breaks allowed me to undertake work outside of the uni trimesters
“I found the mix of online and on-campus learning allowed for an active social life and participation in college activities . ”
Many of the academics, especially those in the School of Environmental and Rural Science, were passionate about students having a diverse university experience
What is your top advice for other students?
Soak it all up It will be over before you know it
Jess Trow’s path to becoming a teacher has been shaped by her rural upbringing, a passion for education, and the vibrant community she found at UNE
Growing up on a 750-acre cattle farm in Glen Innes, Jess always knew she wanted to stay connected to her regional roots while pursuing her passion of teaching UNE’s reputation for excellence in education and its strong support for rural students made it the perfect choice .
While Jess began her Bachelor of Education (K-6 Teaching) studies online to adjust to university study, she made the transition to on campus life only a year into her studies . She quickly found a home at Mary White College with its range of support from other students, resident leaders, Head of College, and staff
“The vibrant and supportive college life at Mary White made it the perfect environment for balancing study and social life,” said Jess
“Being surrounded by like-minded students created a sense of belonging that made the whole university experience more enjoyable . ”
In her four years at UNE, Jess achieved remarkable milestones including the Jill Spilsbury Award for her contributions to college life and education, being named Mary White College’s 2022 Sportswoman of the Year, and representing UNE in mixed netball at UniSport Nationals She also took the opportunity to travel to Malaysia with the School of Education, a chance for UNE students to immerse themselves in Malaysian classrooms and experience a different educational system .
While balancing all of these achievements wasn’t without its challenges, Jess’ strong support network helped her through it .
“There were times when balancing study, sport, and personal commitments felt overwhelming,” said Jess
“However, my parents were incredibly encouraging, and the team at Mary White always had my back Whether I needed help with referencing or guidance in my leadership role, they were there every step of the way ”
Now a Year 3 teacher at Scone Grammar School, Jess is thriving
“The transition from university to full-time teaching has felt natural thanks to the strong foundation I built at UNE,” said Jess
She draws daily on the leadership and adaptability skills she developed at UNE, particularly during her time as a college Residential Leader
“I use those same skills every day in the classroom - whether I’m communicating with parents, collaborating with colleagues, or supporting my students,” said Jess
“I also find that my confidence in contributing to staff meetings and leading group initiatives stems directly from my time in college leadership ”
For Jess, university was about more than just academics, it was a journey of personal growth The many opportunities she seized while studying and living at UNE shaped her experience and she encourages others to do the same
“University isn’t just about study - it’s about growth, friendships, and memories I’d tell my younger self to trust the process, stay committed, and remember that success isn’t just measured by marks - it’s in the person you become along the way . ”
When you graduate, you automatically join UNE’s alumni community—a rich network of more than 120,000 UNE graduates around the globe We are proud of your achievements, and invite you to remain a vital part of the university for the rest of your life
Congratulations on your achievement! We look forward to staying in touch: une edu au/alumni/update-details
Make the most of your alumni experience:
• Stop by our tent at Graduation (if outdoors) or by our table (if indoors) to update your details
• Share your graduation pics #unegraduation
• Check out facebook/unealumni to see if you were snapped!
• Stay in touch with other UNE alumni through social media—don’t forget to add UNE to your LinkedIn profile education information .
• Keep your contact details up-to-date with us and check our website for upcoming events
• Email us at alumni@une edu au to share news
If you haven’t ordered your gown, locked in your photography sitting or lunch for your graduation day, it’s time to get organised
UNE Life’s Graduation Services has a wide range of gowns, bonnets, trenchers, hoods, and stoles to meet the needs of graduands
You’ll find all of these items and more at The Shop Be sure to fill out your Graduation Services Order Form as early as possible to ensure you have everything prepared for your graduation day .
unelife com au/graduationservices
For our Indigenous graduands, please also ensure you have booked to receive your sash at the Indigenous Sashing Ceremony
Oorala provides a personalised sash to all Aboriginal and / or Torres Strait Islander graduands in a special ceremony at the Oorala Aboriginal Centre .
Please note that this ceremony happens once each day over the graduation weekend, and preceeds the first ceremony of the day .
The sash forms part of your academic dress for your graduation ceremony and is a small gift from us to you .
Oorala Graduation Form
How to wear your academic dress . Here are a few handy tips to help make your Graduation Day seamless!
Diploma, Grad Diploma/Bachelor Degree –These gowns are black and they have long slits in the sleeves Make sure that your arm goes straight along the sleeve, not through the slits
Master’s Degree – These gowns are black too, but the difference with a Master’s Gown is the sleeves They have a slit on either side of the sleeve Slide your arms through the slits
Doctoral Degree – These gowns are red and are a similar shape to the Bachelor gowns
Top tip: All gowns should fall below the knee but be above your ankle . To put your gown on, just think of it like a dressing gown, one sleeve at a time
An academic hood is like a present-day ‘hoodie’
It is worn over your shoulders and drapes down your back . The “V” section will sit on your chest with the opening of your hood resting on your shoulders Do not put your arms through the “V” – just your head and chest area should be covered Turn the satin part of the hood outward at the neck A thin line of colour should be visible around your neck . You should also turn the hood outwards at your back, so the coloured satin line is visible at the back . If your hood starts to slip, pins can be used to keep it in place Or if you are wearing a button-up shirt, the loop on the hood can be looped around a button to hold it in place
The Stole (Diploma/Grad Diploma) – Falls from the back of the neck, down the chest with equal lengths on both sides Stoles generally don’t need to be pinned The stoles are gold in colour with a differing coloured stripe The different colours will be associated with your degree . One stripe represents a Diploma and two stripes represent a Graduate Diploma .
Bachelor Hood – These hoods have a black fabric shell and satin edged lining . The colour of the lining will be associated with your degree .
Master’s Hood – These hoods are black fabric shell and full inner satin colour lining . The colour of the lining will be associated with your degree .
Doctoral Hood – These hoods are red in colour and have a satin edged lining .
Indigenous Sash – For all Indigenous students this is worn over the hood or stole
Warning: Hat hair is a danger – plan a style that can survive the trencher
Diploma, Bachelor/Master’s Degree – The trencher should sit flat on your head, not tilted
or pushed backward . The shorter peak should be at the front, and the tassel should hang on the left-hand side
Doctoral Degree – Put the bonnet on your head so it sits nice, snug and evenly The tassel should hang to the left
If you’ve had a few tries, but just can’t seem to get it right, don’t stress
Simply keep your eyes peeled for the team from The Shop – they’ll have a pinning tent on the UNE lawns, so you can go to them to help with any alignment issues
And, before you go on stage, someone will also check that you’re picture perfect for the big moment!
Well done! All of your hard work has paid off; we can’t wait to see and hear about the next part of your journey!
