Outgoing Administrator of the Northern Territory, Professor Hugh Heggie AO PSM, formally departed Government House on Friday, following a moving ceremonial farewell event.
During their three‑year term, Prof Heggie and partner, Ruth Jones, undertook more than 1,500 engagements across the Northern Territory, maintained active relationships with over 60 patronages, and provided strong support to the Defence and veterans’ community.
In addition to the two existing honorary military roles held by the office, Prof Heggie became the first Administrator appointed Honorary Air Commodore of Number 17 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, and the first Administrator appointed Northern Territory Patron of the national veterans’ support organisation Soldier On.
“It has been a privilege and a joy to represent Territorians, to serve the Crown, to perform my statutory and defence responsibilities, and to act as patron — or co-patron — to over sixty organisations,” Prof Heggie said.
“What has been most special are the countless moments across Territory communities — from the very large gatherings to the very small, quiet encounters — where humanity, kindness and connection were always present.
“One of the great gifts of this Territory is its extraordinary cultural diversity, harmony, and inclusivity — across cultures, faiths, and traditions.”
Prof Heggie completed more than 40 regional and remote community visits, including to some of the most isolated communities in the Territory, to present Australian Honours and Awards – ensuring Territorians were recognised in their hometowns and celebrated among their own communities.
The couple welcomed more than 10,000 visitors through the gates for a wide range of events, including free public programs such as Music on the Terrace and Jazz at the House, which reflected His Honour’s passion for music and the arts. They hosted more than 200 events in support of the Northern Territory, from public open days to cultural performances, and were enthusiastic supporters of the arts through their attendance at the Darwin Festival, Darwin Symphony Orchestra, and numerous galleries, exhibitions, award ceremonies and community events.
They also celebrated the Territory’s diversity, participated in community walks and fun runs, attended many multicultural events, and actively supported youth organisations – Prof Heggie as Chief Scout of the Northern Territory and Ms Jones as proud Patron of Girl Guides NT. As Deputy Prior of the Order of St John in the Northern Territory, Prof Heggie, together with Ms Jones in her role as Patron of St John Ambulance Northern Territory, has attended numerous events supporting St John volunteers and frontline personnel, acknowledging their vital contribution to the health and safety of Territorians.
Friday’s ceremonial farewell at Government House featured an Honour Guard, the Australian Army Band, St John Ambulance Australia NT Cadets, Scouts NT and Girl Guides NT. During the ceremony, the Australian National Flag and the Northern Territory Flag were lowered and presented to Prof Heggie.
Chief Justice Michael Grant AO, Acting Administrator of the Northern Territory, will assume administration of the Northern Territory Government between 31 January and 27 February 2026.
