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Federation University Australia is deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of 2016 Distinguished Alumna Jacqueline Dark.

Despite graduating from our University with a Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) and Bachelor of Applied Science (Physics), Jacqueline went on to forge an enormously successful career as an opera singer and musical theatre performer gaining accolades both in Australia and overseas and working with some of the world’s major opera houses.

Known for her magnificent mezzo-soprano voice, magnetic stage presence, and extraordinary talent, Jacqueline was a dual Helpmann Award-winner, Australia’s top live performance award which recognises distinguished artistic achievement and excellence in the many disciplines of Australia's live performance sectors.

Jacqueline won her first Helpmann for her portrayal of Herodias in Opera Australia’s production of Salome, later singing the same role for Opera Hong Kong. Her second Helpmann Award was for her work as Fricka in Opera Australia’s Der Ring des Nibelungen. Other awards included two Green Room Awards for excellence in theatre in Victoria, and an Encore Award for excellence in Ballarat theatre. Jacqueline graced the stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Ballarat on many occasions.

Jacqueline’s most recent performances included The Mother Abbess in the National Tour of The Sound of Music, Herodias in Opera Australia’s Salome and Fricka in their revival of Der Ring des Nibelungen, Santuzza in Cavalleria rusticana for State Opera South Australia, the title role in Rufus Wainwright’s Prima Donna for the Adelaide Festival, Berenice in Farnace for Pinchgut Opera, Mrs Sedley in Peter Grimes for the Brisbane Festival and major concerts with the Sydney, Melbourne, West Australian and New Zealand Symphony Orchestras. She was due to sing Wellgunde in Sydney Symphony’s Das Rheingold this November and feature in a starring role for Opera Australia in 2024.

Federation University extends deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Jacqueline.