For more than 25 years Mr Price has played a critical role in the governance of the university as a longstanding and dedicated member of University Council.

Vice-Chancellor and president Professor Caroline McMillen said this outstanding record of service included acting as the university’s Chancellor from October 2012 to June 2013.

“It was a role he performed with great integrity, professionalism and, above all, a deep and abiding commitment to the values and mission of the University of Newcastle.”

Most recently, John was the university’s deputy chancellor.  He concluded his term in March this year and retired from the University Council in May 2014.

Educated at Newcastle Technical College, Mr Price completed a certificate of marine engineering technology and a certificate of structural engineering before gaining a second class certificate of engineering competency (steam) from the Commonwealth Department of Transport.

He began his working life as an apprentice fitter and machinist in 1956 before spending many years as a well-respected marine engineer and manager in the shipbuilding industry.

During this time he served as an alderman of Newcastle City Council from 1977 to 1984, as a councillor of Shortland County Council from 1977-1980 as well as volunteering with community organisations such as the Scout Association and the Lions Club.

His commitment to public service continued with his election to the NSW Legislative Assembly in 1984 as the Member for Waratah, a role he held for 15 years before he was elected as the Member for Maitland in 1999.

He was also shadow minister for Public Works and State Development and held the position of Deputy Speaker of the House until his retirement in 2007.

Mr Price was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2009 in recognition of his service to the Parliament of NSW and to community through executive roles with youth, educational, church and broadcasting organisations.