By Kate Evans

Simon Whittle was born, grew up and has stayed on the Sunshine Coast. He was fortunate enough to get a job with his parents’ paper, the Maroochydore Advertiser, as it was known. He became the first advertising manager for the Sunshine Coast Daily when it launched in 1980. Simon has witnessed many changes to the Coast over the years. When a university was proposed for the region he was thrilled.

“It became pretty clear to me very early on that this was the most significant thing to happen in my lifetime on the Sunshine Coast,” says Simon.

Simon also concedes that it was “a bit weird for someone like me, who was never an academic and I didn’t go to university but for some reason I’ve always loved universities.”

The built structure, the landscaping and the open spaces drew Simon in. Simon felt the landscape of the planned site was a high priority for Emeritus Professor Paul Thomas, USC’s first Vice-Chancellor. He could see, with the architects employed, that the new campus would resemble the great universities he admired.

Simon says he is proud of his early association with USC, and enjoyed the time he had as a Foundation Board member.

“The graduation ceremonies were a great way to watch the University grow,” Simon said.

Simon’s wife, Sandy, a daughter of cane farmers in Maryborough, is a retired primary school teacher. The Whittles met through mutual friends and as Simon describes it, “even though Sandy wasn’t remotely interested in cricket, she came to watch me play.” They were married in 1991.

They have enjoyed living on the Coast and their friendship network is made up of people who worked in the volunteer sector.

When Simon and Sandy were first married, they created their Wills. As Simon grew older, he became more involved in philanthropy and more comfortable talking about it. The Whittles see the enormous potential in leaving a bequest.

“It is important to talk to those involved and make sure partners and children are in the loop,” adds Simon.

Simon and Sandy understand that a bequest can be transformative for an organisation and even a modest amount can make a big impact. They would like their bequest to support campus enhancement, protecting the landscape and nature reserve on which USC Sunshine Coast is located.

For many people like Simon and Sandy Whittle, adding a charitable gift to their Will is one of the most powerful and enjoyable decisions they can make. They know they have created a legacy that will have a lasting impact.