Dr William (Bill) Palmer

Dr Bill Palmer was a distinguished banker and influential UQ Senate member. Following a successful career in banking, Dr Palmer was appointed to the UQ Senate in 1988.

He was immediately elected as Chairperson of the Finance Committee and held the position for a decade. Dr Palmer’s tenure as was characterised by a rigorous approach to financial reporting, including initiating reviews and participating as an active member of several financial committees.

Prior to joining the University Senate, Dr Palmer was elected Governor of the University of Queensland Foundation Ltd in 1985. He was later appointed Chairperson of the Board of Governors in 1995. He was also a member of the Council of Women’s College and was the first Chairperson of the Gatton College Advisory Council, leading the College’s transition to university status.

Outside of UQ, Dr Palmer was Deputy Chairman of the Queensland Theatre Company Board and Chairman of the Board of Forrester Parker Group. He led the latter’s public listing and later merge with Kurts Developments Limited, also serving as Chairman of the Board of the newly merged company, Forrester Kurts.

Dr Palmer was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy honoris causa from UQ in 1999. He passed away in July 2021.

Awards

Doctor of Philosophy honoris causa
1999