Class of 2006 Chiropractic Graduation Macquarie University
By Anthony O’Reilly President - The Chiropractic Alumni

If you cast your mind back to the excitement that surrounded your graduation, the same buzz has just been the thrill felt by the Class of 2006 from Macquarie University. April 20^th marked a special date for graduates, partners, families and faculty for the 93 new chiropractors received their Master of Chiropractic degree while a further 70 were admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Chiropractic Science at the formal ceremony of conferring of degrees.

Academic gowns and caps were swapped for ball gowns and black tie several hours and kilometres later, Sydney’s nightlife headquarters - Darling Harbour, was the venue for the Graduation Ball for the profession, graduates and families and friends to celebrate. The Class of 2006 was introduced to the profession at their traditional Graduation Ball organised by The Chiropractic Alumni. The connection with the profession was established as the new graduates swore the Chiropractic Oath and were introduced to COCA Executive members Prof Rod Bonello, Henry Pollard, Peter Tuchin and Ed Devereaux, members of the NSW Registration Board and members of The Sydney College of Chiropractic by Dr Mark Uren and Dr. Simon Walters. They were exhorted to excellence with an address by the University Head of Department of Health and Chiropractic - Dr. Sharyn Eaton.

Well known friend and teacher to chiropractors - neurosurgeon Dr. Charlie Teo gave an extremely entertaining and hilarious account of his own professional journey and as the Ball’s keynote speaker urged the graduates to persevere in what is true against opposition; to treat patients as you would your family and to maintain in mind the ‘bigger picture’.

Dr Charlie Teo and Prof Rod Bonello

Highlights of this gala evening included presentation of the Academic awards. These included: The ASRF Research Prize won by Drs Kate Swincer and Dr. Kylie Wilson, Chiropractic Education Australia Prize for Clinical Excellence to Stephanie Mathieson, The Gary Stavrou Award for Adjustive Skills won by Dr. Adam Purdey, won by Dr Mei Wong was awarded both The Chiropractic Alumni Award and The Ed Devereaux Award.

Master of Ceremonies Prof. Rod Bonello conducted a very entertaining evening and helped to deliver a very successful event for the Ball organisers The Chiropractic Alumni and The Sydney College of Chiropractic. The Class of 2006 are wished every success in their careers.

Editors note: The COCA 2006 prize and award was presented to Mr Benjamin Humphries.