Its cost of $2.2 million was 50 per cent funded from the $6 million gained for the University of New England by the Nationals while in government.

This was a compensation package following the introduction of voluntary student unionism, and UNE received the most of any university in Australia.

Therefore, it may have been appropriate for The Nationals Leader in the senate, Barnaby Joyce – who was present on Saturday – to perform the official opening.

Not surprisingly though, Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay and Federal Member for New England Tony Windsor took the limelight.

Senator Joyce, who once played for Albies, nevertheless enjoyed the grand final and claims he tipped the winner!

Senator John Williams

The Nationals Senator for NSW