Vale Daniel Adi Waluyo (Issue 22, 2012)
One of La Trobe University’s most active international alumni has tragically died at age 31. Daniel Adi Waluyo (Adi to his friends) studied a Master of Adult Education at La Trobe University as an AusAID sponsored student, after which he returned to his home country of Indonesia and worked as a teacher in Bali.
During his time at La Trobe, Daniel was a very active student, dedicating his time to help other international students adjust to university life. He volunteered as a Student Host several times during the International Welcome Festival and with his smiles, optimistic and supportive nature, made the first week of university much easier for many students. La Trobe International recognised his leadership skills, employing him as the “Superhost” and Assistant Coordinator.
Daniel was also part of the committee of the Indonesian Student Association, helping organise events to support his colleagues in their transition to Australia.
As an alumnus, Daniel maintained a close connection to the University, representing La Trobe at education fairs and promoting the University to prospective students.
Daniel’s friends and colleagues remember him as very energetic, always smiling, encouraging and supportive – always going the extra mile for those around him.
His friends Chameera Abeyasekera and Dinesha Cooray remember Daniel as understanding and kind.
‘We first met Adi back in July 2008 when we started as international student hosts. We were very excited but nervous and uncertain of what to expect. Adi had already worked as a host a few times and was familiar with the Festival. He was so kind and understanding and shared his experience of being a host for the first time and gave us an insight into what we could expect. His advice and presence was so valuable to us and we felt that we had someone to help us out should we come across a situation we couldn’t handle. The following year, we had the opportunity to work together again, but this time Adi was our coordinator. He did such an amazing job; always organised and totally reliable. Although he finished his studies and went back to Indonesia that year, he kept in touch with us all the time. He even offered to take us sightseeing even if it meant he’d have to take time off work. That was just the kind of person Adi was. He was not only a really good friend but also very caring, loving and entertaining and that is why he will be missed dearly,’ say Chameera and Dinesha.
Law research candidate Nilam Kurniasari also has fond memories.
‘He was a nice, easy-going, and bubbly person. I will always remember his help during my first day in Melbourne. He was among the first Indonesians I met when I was first arrived at La Trobe University. He took me on a campus tour and helped me to adjust to uni life and living in Melbourne. It was good for me to have somebody from my own country helping me on my first days in new country. He went too fast but I am sure he is in a better place now,’ says Nilam.
Daniel was well-liked by students, alumni and La Trobe staff. We have all been touched by his unexpected passing and send our deepest sympathy to his family.
