Deakin staff, past and present, gathered at the University's Waurn Ponds Campus this week to farewell accounting systems manager Wayne Myers as he heads into retirement after 45 years of service.
Mr Myers is one of the University's founding staff members, having moved from The Gordon when Deakin was first established. During the past 45 years (including the years he worked at The Gordon) he has steered the development of financial systems from punch cards to the automated computer systems used today.
"I have enjoyed working for Deakin over the years and being able to see the University develop," My Myers said.
"The University is a wonderful employer. I particularly like the way it is now constructing buildings to create an image and not just to create rooms. I am so glad after all the building work that the Waurn Ponds campus still has plenty of green space to provide a relaxing atmosphere."
Mr Myers designed the computerised administrative systems for The Gordon and after Deakin was established designed the University's first early computerised finance system. When the University decided to make the transition to the Oracle Financials System, he worked on the implementation and ensuing upgrades and enhancements to the system.
"I am pleased that I have been able to work with others to provide financial systems that meet the University needs. It has always been important, and will continue to be, that we look to improve our systems; sometimes it is hard to keep pace with current business changes," Mr Myers said.
"I enjoy it, seeing how people can use the system and also helping them to get what they want from the system."
Mr Myers was awarded an OAM in the 2010 Queen's Birthday Honours for his contribution to Scouting. He is the District Commissioner for the city portion of Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula and has been a scouting leader for 48 years.
While he will miss his "Deakin family", Mr Myers is looking forward what retirement will bring.
"I will miss the collegial atmosphere of the University and to hear about the research activities undertaken. I will especially miss the staff of the Financial Services Division who have become my second family," he said.
"I intend taking some time before committing to extra activities but will continue my commitment to the Scouting Movement and the Uniting Church. Travel will be on the horizon but is not yet planned; service to the community will definitely happen."
And for those at Deakin who had the privilege of working with Mr Myers his legacy will always be remembered. This legacy sits not only within the financial systems he developed but with his people focussed approach, his forward thinking, resilience and tolerance, and for being the ultimate true gentleman.