Dear Colleagues and Students:
As you will be aware, there have been a number of media reports over the past few days concerning the University and the former Vice-Chancellor.
I do hope that you can appreciate and understand the position we are in. An important part of our roles is to be accountable for the public funds entrusted to us, and to ensure that we implement and uphold the highest standards of governance. When it became clear several months ago there were gaps relating to some of our records, we were required to make proper enquiries, ensuring that the University's Council was kept informed at every stage.
On a personal level, it is disappointing that our obligation to take this action, and the public debate which has ensued, has distorted recognition of the most important contribution to Macquarie made by Professor Yerbury over the last 20 years. Not least, her fostering of the art collection is much admired, and is even more important reason for us to establish good records relating to the ownership and provenance of the paintings and sculptures. It will also allow us to identify and recognise those other generous benefactors who have lent or given works of art to the University over many years.
The University’s internal auditors, Deloittes, are currently in the process of completing a draft report. Professor Yerbury has been approached by Deloittes to provide information as part of this process. Once the Deloittes report is complete, it will be given to the NSW Auditor General, so that the audit of the University’s accounts can be completed..
Notwithstanding these unfortunate events, progress continues to be made and the Vice-Chancellor will shortly be unveiling our exciting 2007 program to you.
In the meantime, we would like to thank you for your understanding. We are working as quickly as possible to resolve all outstanding issues. Your strong and continuing commitment is greatly appreciated and we look forward to building on the strong foundation which is Macquarie University.
Steven Schwartz and Maurice Newman
