The Gomeroi people, our First Nations Kin and our Multicultural Allies petition the University of Newcastle to rethink the appointment of Mark Vaile (Whitehaven Coal chairperson) as the new University Chancellor, the top position of power.

Vaile's appointment will send the wrong message to young Gomeroi, and to all First Nations, that scandal and association with wrongdoing is rewarded with the top job.

In Vaile's time with Whitehaven Coal, destruction of Gomeroi Country, and water theft has been fined by NSW courts. And this is not the first or second scandal with which Mark Vaile has been associated.

Aunties, Uncles, Nephews, Nieces, Sisters, Brothers and Custodians, as a Sovereign Nation we petition you, with care and lore for all matter, all creatures, all people. Support Gomeroi mob and choose someone of higher honour, to fulfill the Newcastle University motto: "I Look Ahead"