In the heart of the Loddon Mallee region, La Trobe University’s Bendigo campus stands as a beacon of education, innovation, and community connection. Marg O’Rourke, Head of Campus, understands just how vital the university is—not only for providing education but also for shaping the region’s social, cultural and economic future. With deep roots in Bendigo, Marg’s passion for her community and her vision for La Trobe is evident.

“It’s so much more than just an education provider,” Marg explains. “Having a university here is fundamental to the community’s livability. It’s about our future workforce, innovation, and creating opportunities that may not otherwise exist in regional settings. For many, if they had to leave to study, they might not pursue higher education at all. La Trobe makes it accessible.” Marg highlights that the university’s reach extends well beyond Bendigo. Its presence across four regional campuses—Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, Shepparton, and Mildura—creates a network of learning hubs.

These campuses are open not only to our campus enrolled and online students but also to those from other institutions needing a place to study. “Our vision is to increase participation in education,” Marg says. “Anyone studying online, even from another university, can come and access our library, facilities and support services. It’s about creating a supportive, vibrant learning environment for everyone.”

Supporting Regional Growth and Innovation

At the heart of La Trobe Bendigo is a commitment to drive growth and innovation in the region. The university’s strong ties with local industries and organizations fuel the development of future workforces in areas where Bendigo thrives—health, education, manufacturing, creative arts, business and law. Marg is especially proud of how the university supports the local economy and strengthens these key sectors. “There are the obvious benefits a university brings,” Marg notes, “like education and research. But it’s also about what you don’t see—the ripple effect on the community. Our partnerships with TAFE and secondary schools help create clear pathways into higher education, while our research programs contribute directly to solving local challenges.”

A Year of Transformation and New Beginnings

Reflecting on her first 12 months as Head of Campus, Marg emphasizes how important it’s been to understand the full cycle of university operations. “Bendigo is experiencing significant growth,” she says. “Our student numbers are strong, and we’re at full capacity in student accommodation. We’re also seeing more students returning to campus after the pandemic, bringing back the vibrancy and energy we missed.”

Several exciting upgrades are underway, including new health and innovation facilities and improvements to education spaces. Marg believes these investments reflect La Trobe’s commitment to Bendigo’s future. The university’s clinical teaching building in Arnold Street is undergoing a $23 million upgrade, and La Trobe’s recent acquisition of the Emporium Creative Hub in the city center offers new opportunities for engagement with students and the broader community. “Bendigo is truly becoming a university city,” Marg says with pride. “We’re not just at Flora Hill. We’re woven into the fabric of Bendigo with facilities across town— our clinical teaching facilities, creative spaces, and soon, more student accommodation right in the city centre.”

A Personal and Deep Connection to Bendigo

Born and raised in Bendigo Marg’s connection run’s deep and is rich with memories, moments of pride and joy. Like many, Marg continues to enjoy Bendigo's rich history and how that history comes alive through its events and places; she reflects on a deep and long lasting connection to the events at Easter. ”One of the most special times of the year in Bendigo is the Bendigo Easter Festival. It’s a tradition that stretches back over 150 years, and it’s something I’ve treasured since childhood. I remember the first Easter parade I attended as a young kid in the early 1970’s. Seeing Sun Loong, the iconic Chinese dragon, weaving its way through the streets left me in awe. That moment stayed with me for life.” Years later, as Bendigo Mayor, Marg had the honor of traveling to Hong Kong to receive Dai Gum Loong, Sun Loong’s successor, from its makers. “Being part of that journey—dressed in mayoral robes and representing Bendigo on the global stage—was truly humbling. It was a full-circle moment that I’ll never forget” Her connection to Bendigo is also deeply tied to its unique spaces and believes the heart of the city centre feels so vibrant and alive and is something no other regional city in Australia can match. “One of my favorite places is Charing Cross, right at the heart of the city. Standing near Rosalind Park and looking towards the Alexandra Fountain, with heritage buildings on all sides, fills me with pride every time.” “These experiences—whether it’s being part of the Easter celebrations or simply walking through the city’s historic streets— constantly remind me of how special Bendigo is. It’s a city that celebrates its history while continuing to grow and thrive, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Community

Marg’s connection and influence extends far beyond her role at La Trobe. With a history of civic leadership, including serving 4 years as Bendigo’s Mayor, she has been instrumental in several transformative projects—none more visible than bringing Qantas flights to Bendigo. “When I see a Qantas jet flying overhead, I smile,” she shares. “I was part of the early conversations that made that a reality. At the time, it seemed like a dream, but now it’s a key part of our city’s connectivity. It’s those little moments that make you realize how far we’ve come.” Marg’s dedication to Bendigo is not something she planned; it’s simply part of who she is. “I grew up in a family where giving back was natural. My dad volunteered a lot, and I just followed that path,” she reflects. “In regional communities, everyone pitches in. It’s just how we live.” As La Trobe Bendigo looks to the future, Marg is excited about what lies ahead. From expanding student accommodation to strengthening industry partnerships, the university remains at the forefront of regional transformation. “We’re here to help Bendigo grow, thrive, and prosper,” she says. “And I feel incredibly privileged to be part of that journey.”