The University of New South Wales, from its gestation in the Sydney Technical College and its controversial beginnings in 1949, has grown into a diverse, innovative institution, one of Australia's premier universities - with, in 1999, a student population of 30,000 and a staff of 5,000. Since its foundation it has been a leading player in the redefining of traditional notions of university life and character in Australia, maintaining its contributions to public life and its continuing focus on the incorporation of change. The book sets out to capture the spirit and achievement of these first fifty years.