Dr Asimus was elected the foundation chancellor of CSU in 1989 and served in this position until 2002.

As chancellor, he oversaw the integration of the Riverina-Murray Institute of Higher Education and Mitchell College of Advanced Education to form the new Charles Sturt University.

Lawrie Willett, AO, the current chancellor of CSU, said of his predecessor and friend: “David nurtured the development and growth of the fledgling CSU during its formative years.”

Mr Willett said Dr Asimus with his characteristic wisdom, charm and wit, forged a strong and united university from its proud and historic predecessor institutions.

“In every respect he was, and will continue to be, the source of the university’s inspiration and its dedication to the people of inland Australia,” Mr Willett said.

“Charles Sturt University today marks the passing of a great friend, a great leader and a great Australian.”

CSU vice-chancellor professor Ian Goulter said the university benefited greatly from the election of David Asimus as its foundation chancellor in 1989.

“David understood the importance of CSU to the families and students of inland Australia in providing access to tertiary education,” Prof Goulter said.

“He understood the value of CSU as an economic and cultural force in the sustainability and growth of inland Australia.

“More importantly, he realised the potential of the university as an agent for the development of the immense intellectual capital of inland Australia.

“The university extends its deepest sympathy to David’s wife, Jane, and his family.”

During Dr Asimus’ tenure, Charles Sturt University became one of the largest universities in Australia, growing from around 10,000 students to almost 40,000.

In 1997, during his term, CSU was recognised as “University of the Year” for its commitment to first generation students – an achievement about which Dr Asimus was immensely proud.

Born in Tumut in 1932, Dr Asimus gained a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Sydney.

He was a distinguished sportsman, representing the University and New South Wales in rowing.

He travelled to the UK in 1958 as a Nuffield Agricultural Fellow before returning to farming in the Gundagai area.

A passionate advocate of the Australian wool industry, he became in 1973 a foundation director and then, from 1979 to 1988,