On this day in 1961, Monash University marked its official opening in Clayton with a first intake of 347 students. Named after the engineer, military leader and public administrator Sir John Monash, it was the first university established in Victoria in over 100 years.
First published in The Age, March 13, 1961.
2500 See Colorful Ceremony at Monash
Monash University.Credit:Michael Clayton-Jones
A CROWD of 2500 watched in silence as the Premier (Mr. Bolte) unveiled a plaque at the new Monash University on Saturday to mark its official opening.
This was the climax to a ceremony which was full of tradition, color, authority and tribute.
The historic proceedings began with a solemn academic procession to the official dais.
Those in the procession included administrative staff, professors and other members of the academic staff, the Interim Council, leaders from other universities, the vice-chancellor, the Premier and the Administrator (Sir Charles Lowe), who has been appointed official visitor.
Most were dressed in colorful robes, caps and hats signifying their various degrees and orders.
The opening address was given by the chairman of the Interim Council, Mr. R. R. Blackwood.
Sir Charles Lowe paid high tribute to the late Sir John Monash, for whom the university was named.
The bust of Sir John Monash (L) looks out towards the crowd from the dais as the chairman of the Interim Council of Monash University (Mr. R. R. Blackwood) addresses the gathering. Credit:Age photographer
Sir Charles urged that Monash’s life and character be used as a model for all at the institution in its development.
Just in Time
Mr. Bolte, in declaring the university officially open, said it had come to Melbourne — “just in time .. Melbourne University is bursting at the seams.”
He congratulated those involved in the intensive planning programme and hard work which had been responsible for its establishment — and early opening.
Mr. Bolte predicted that about 12,000 students would be attending Monash in 1970.
He said it would become complete and self-supporting within 10 years. A degree obtained there would be recognised all over the world.
First Prank
After the ceremony the official party made a tour of inspection through the buildings already completed.
About 450 first-year students in the faculties of science, engineering, medicine, arts and economics will begin their courses today.
Students at Monash wasted no time in playing their first prank.
About halfway through Mr. Bolte’s speech at the opening ceremony a skeleton — dressed in a student gown — appeared suddenly on the roof of the chemistry building . . . and began to “move.”
Four policemen on duty in the crowd below raced quickly up to the roof but, by the time they reached the spot, the mysterious figure had “left.”
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