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A sculpture entitled ‘Gift from the Gods' - the State Government's gift to The University of Western Australia - has been presented at the University by the Premier, Colin Barnett.

Mr Barnett - a UWA graduate - said the presentation of the sculpture, by Perth artist Robin Yakinthou, acknowledged the significance of UWA's Centenary.

"The State Government is proud to recognise this milestone on behalf of all West Australians," Mr Barnett said. "UWA has made an enormous contribution to the State since it opened in 1913 and is now ranked as one of the top 100 universities in the world.

"More than 100,000 people have graduated from UWA. Our graduates have gone on to make an enormous difference to the State, the country and indeed, the world, in many different walks of life."

UWA's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Johnson, said the gift was a reminder of the support the University had enjoyed from the Government for more than 100 years.

"We look forward to continuing to work with the Premier and his Government to shape the future of the State, as we have done for the last century," Professor Johnson said.

"Since 1913, the University has made positive differences in the lives of Western Australians in fields including agriculture, health, engineering and the arts. We look forward to continuing to do so."

The sculpture - which was on display at this year's Sculpture by the Sea at Cottesloe - is outside the Somerville Auditorium in the University's cultural precinct.

The sculpture symbolises humankind's pollution not only of the Earth but also of outer space.

Media references

Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs  (+61 8) 6488 5563  /  (+61 4) 32 637 716