Bond Heritage Trail

Plaque 2: The Central Spine

"This location represents the centre of campus. The paved path known as the 'Spine' serves to link the campus at its highest point. The sculptures along the Spine were designed by Anthony Pryor and installed in 1990. They represent trees from which the past, present, and future branch out."

Plaque 3: The Halls

"Campus residences have always been integral to the university given its diverse student population, of whom so many travel from afar. These halls provided the original student accommodation. The halls have given comfort to many homesick Bondies and claim responsibility for lifelong friendships and several long-standing marriages."

Plaque 4: Town Meets Gown

"The township of Varsity Lakes was developed after the construction of Bond University. Much of this development has been designed to complement, and grow with, the university and its student population. The township along Varsity Parade stands on land originally designated as part of the university's site."

Plaque 5: The Pine Forest

"The Pine Forest is symbolic of what once covered the entire site of the campus. The pines are an introduced species that provide little ecological advantage to native flora and fauna. Today, the pines stand as a reminder of the past and provide the site for imagination of what the future may hold."

Plaque 6: The Arch

"The iconic Arch building was designed by Arata Isozaki from Japan. The Arch is modelled after the Arch of Constantine in ancient Rome. The lake in front of the Arch is rumoured to be home to bull sharks who feed on the jumping fish and the occasional wayward student."

Plaque 7: Don's Tavern

"Don's Tavern is named after Foundation Vice Chancellor Professor Don Watts. The tavern is regarded by Bond alumni as a spiritual place because of its fond memories, friendships, and good times. The tavern was the only watering hole in the district when it first opened."

Plaque 8: Lake Orr

"Lake Orr is named after Brian Orr, who led the university's early construction. The ocean tide flows through the weir, and the bridge is subject to flooding when king tides coincide with torrential rain. The lake provides for excellent fishing and boating, whereas swimming is best undertaken in the university's pool."

Plaque 9: Student Court

"The Student Court provides student services ranging from the medical clinic to recreation. The site originally contained the University Park Hotel, which provided the only accommodation in the area to students, staff, and visitors. The precinct was home to the first bank, post office, telephone exchange, and pub in the district."

Plaque 10: The Ocean Way

"From this point, water flows through the Boobegan Canal and joins the Nerang River and eventually the Pacific Ocean. This site was originally intended as a dock for boat cruises from Surfers Paradise. Automobiles became the preferred means of transport, although a boat trip might be quicker during peak times, and surely more scenic."

Plaque 11: The Sports Fields

"The sports fields were re-developed in 2013 consistent with Bond's ambitions in sport. Bond University has won the Doug Ellis Cup for inter-varsity competition more times than any other Australian university. The rugby field is the site of the first-ever victory by the Junior Wallabies over the Junior All Blacks 25-24 in 2016."

Plaque 12: The Bull Shark Victory Ode

"Here I stand on sacred land; With a tinnie in my hand; And my mates all gathered round; Bond! I love this 'magic' ground."

Plaque 13: The Bond Oval

"The oval was built in 2013 to accommodate the emergence of AFL as a sport at the university. AFL premierships followed with three won in the first four years of the home ground called The Canal. The width of the ground is the same as the MCG, designed to favour a running style of game."

Plaque 14: The Great Hall

"The Pine Forest was an original site for a great hall boasting stained glass windows but was never constructed. The site has remained undeveloped since, despite significant development of the wider campus. Speculation is that the site awaits a generous benefactor to fulfil the original vision."

Plaque 15: The Entraceway

"The Entranceway is representative of a portal to the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. Constructed for the 30th anniversary and clad in original Helidon sandstone, this Entranceway serves as both a doorway, photo opportunity, and welcome to Bondies and guests."

Published on Wednesday, 7 May, 2025.