University to honour Darwin at Black Tie Dinner

Charles Darwin University will celebrate the legacy of namesake Charles Darwin with a gala black-tie dinner on 12 February, the anniversary of the naturalist’s birth.

The Charles Darwin Black Tie Dinner this year will be held for the first time in the grand ballroom at the Double Tree by Hilton Esplanade in Darwin’s central business district.

Advancement Director Simon Matthias said 12 February was the perfect day to celebrate Darwin’s contribution to science, the importance of knowledge, and the value of education in general.

“Our city’s social calendar is set for a stellar start with this year’s Black-Tie Dinner marking the 211^th birthday of Charles Darwin,” Mr Matthias said.

“We are delighted to announce that ARIA nominated Territorian Emily Wurramara will provide the entertainment, and technophile and CDU alumnus Dr Mark Englund will deliver the keynote speech. This will be an event not to be missed.”

Mr Matthias said Emily Wurramara’s star had shot to national attention as support act to Matchbox Twenty’s Rob Thomas on his recent Australian tour, which coincided with the launch of her debut album “Milyakburra”.

He said Dr Englund had forged an outstanding career in Silicon Valley as a tech entrepreneur and start-up founder, specialising in sonar, optical fibre technology, engineering and business building.

“Dr Englund has built two international deep tech businesses in a 25-year career as an engineer, entrepreneur and business owner focused on optical fibre networks and sensor systems.”