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Engineering lecturer awarded Medal of the Order of Australia
TAFE Queensland proudly celebrates the achievements of long-serving educator and engineer Don Robertson, who has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to engineering and education.
The Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) recognises Australians who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.
A respected civil engineer and lifelong lecturer, Don has dedicated decades to shaping both the industry and the people within it.
His career reflects a deep commitment to learning - one grounded in the belief that knowledge should be shared, questioned, and continually built upon.
Since joining TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus in 2007, Don has played a key role in delivering high-quality civil engineering education, helping students build the technical skills and critical thinking needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
His influence extends beyond the classroom, having contributed to the development of programs, including the Associate Degree in Civil Engineering (HED001), and to supporting the next generation of engineering professionals.
Don’s extensive industry experience has been central to his teaching approach.
Before his time at TAFE Queensland, he held senior roles across engineering and construction in both Australia and internationally, including as a co-founder and director of a civil engineering and construction company in Brisbane, and as a lecturer and engineer in South Africa.
His ability to connect theory with real-world application has ensured students graduate job-ready, equipped with the practical knowledge and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the engineering sector.
Throughout his career, Don has been recognised not only for his technical expertise but also for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his students.
He is a strong advocate for industry-connected education and has consistently set high standards for both professional practice and learning outcomes.
His impact is reflected in the countless careers he has helped shape, mentoring students to think critically, act with integrity, and pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
The OAM acknowledges a distinguished career, but it also recognises something more enduring - Don’s legacy of empowering others.
Through his teaching, mentorship, and leadership, he has inspired generations of engineers and strengthened the profession.
TAFE Queensland congratulates Don on this well-deserved honour and thanks him for his ongoing contribution to education, industry, and community.