It is with sadness that the Deakin community has learned of the death of Mr Frank Costa AO, at the age of 83.
It is with sadness that the Deakin community has learned of the death of Mr Frank Costa AO, at the age of 83.
Mr Costa was a friend, donor and supporter of the University over many years, and in 2003 received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws in recognition of his distinguished service to the community.
Mr Costa had an enormous presence in the business and cultural life of Geelong and the region. He was a Former President of the Geelong Football Club (1998 - 2010), and received life membership in 2011 following more than 30 years' involvement. He was also just the 26th to be named as a legend of the club - and the first non-player.
At the national level, Mr Costa's achievements were given due formal recognition. In 1997, he was awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to youth and to the community of Geelong. In 2001, he was awarded the Centenary Medal for service to the Barwon community, and in that same year was awarded the Australia Sports Medal for services to Australian football.
In 2015, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community of Geelong in sport, philanthropy and in business.
His connections within the community were extensive and varied, and his loyalty to the city of Geelong was well known - he worked diligently and with gusto for the advancement of the city and its residents. Alongside his many high profile activities, he was also Patron of the Geelong Volunteer Resource Centre and the Geelong Volunteering Network, and was Academy Ambassador for Surf Coast FC.
Deakin Vice-Chancellor, Professor Iain Martin said that the University was indebted to the Costa Family for their generous support over many years, most notably Costa Hall.
"Costa Hall is our Great Hall. It is at the heart of our University; not just because of its location at the centre of our Waterfront Campus, but because of the place it holds in the hearts and minds of every single Deakin graduate who crosses that stage.
"Thanks to Mr Costa and his family, Deakin students and alumni have a platform to launch into a better life, supported by a world-class education and a community rallied behind them. Mr Costa's legacy will live on through the memories of our graduates for countless generations to come.
"There was no interaction with Frank that was not memorable. He was a truly extraordinary man whose generosity made a difference to so many. Frank was a great friend to Geelong and to our University and will be much missed by all who were lucky enough to know him."
The Deakin community extends its heartfelt condolences to the Costa family and their friends.
Image: Mr Frank Costa and Deakin University Chancellor Mr John Stanhope at the 20th anniversary of Costa Hall in 2018.
