The University of New South Wales, from its gestation in the Sydney Technical College and its controversial beginnings in 1949, has grown into a diverse, innovative institution, one of Australia's premier universities - with, in 1999, a student population of 30,000 and staff of 5000. Since its foundation it has been a leading player in the redefining of traditional notions of university life and character in Australia, maintaining its contributions to public life and its continuing focus on the incorporation of change.
UNSW A Portrait sets out to capture the spirit and achievement of these first fifty years. It is told, not as a dull chronicle, but in a narrative woven through with the experiences of its participants, past and present - from chancellors and vice-chancellors, to former students, academics and administrators.
Illustrated with more than 160 photographs, this history is a lively, anecdotal account of the emergence of Australia's largest university, filtered through the keen, ironic eye of one of its participants and an award-winning history writer.
