The early years - Southern Cross University

Before Southern Cross University was established in 1994, the groundwork for challenging higher education convention was already being laid in the Northern Rivers.

The 1970s

Not just establishing a facility, but a reputation for quality

1970 – Lismore Teachers College officially opened on 3 February 1970

1970 – The oldest student-run organisation, the Gold Rats Rugby Club, established

1971 – Lismore Teachers College became the College of Advanced Education under the Higher Education Act 1969

1973 – Renamed Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education (NRCAE) to reflect the increased diversification of courses offered

The 1980s

Building the foundations of a university destined to be different

1984 – Professor Rod Treyvaud appointed Principal of the Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education (NRCAE)

1985 – Five distinct faculties, a postgraduate and Indigenous college established

1988 – NRCAE agrees to an association with the University of New England and formally becomes a network member of the newly constituted University of New England under legislation brought down in 1989

1989 – Groundwork laid for one of the first courses in tourism at an Australian university

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