Education
University of Melbourne. Clare College.
University of Melbourne. Clare College.
Educated at Melbourne and Cambridge, Tanner was appointed to Newcastle University College (Nuclear) in 1959 and became renowned at the institution for his enthusiastic involvement in student life and for his eccentric character (he cycled about campus in full academic dress as a matter of course). Tanner was a key figure in the campaign for Nuclear"s independence from the University of New South Wales. According to University legend, Tanner officiated at a celebratory bonfire for the inaugural Autonomy Day, during which he poured wine libations onto the ground to "sanctify the land upon which the University rests".
The Godfrey Tanner Bar in the Shortland Building is named in his honour.