Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was the celebrity guest at a barbecue hosted by the Griffith University Labor Club at Nathan campus.

Dozens of students lined up for the chance to have a free lunchtime sausage handed to them by the Member of Griffith. The barbecue was a highlight for Labor Club organisers, who are actively seeking new recruits.

Mr Rudd urged members, new and old, to take an active role as volunteers in next year’s Federal election and hedidn’t miss an opportunity to use his now trademark comment.

“What does Queensland need? A fair shake of the sauce bottle,”

During the visit Mr Ruddmet with Vice Chancellor Professor Ian O’Connor to talk about the University’s strengthening Asian focus.

“I’m very passionate about Australia’s engagement with Asia and we had a long discussion,” Mr Rudd said.

He also said he was overwhelmed by the warmth of welcome he’d received, particularly from overseas students.

“I think the international students also know I’m a big fan of our engagement with students from around the world. It is part of Australia’s future.”

Griffith Labor Club President, Mr. Sam Catanzariti-Smith said the visit was the culmination of weeks of planning and he was delighted by the strong turnout.

“It’s really good because Kevin Rudd is so popular with young people and obviously with Queenslanders so it is great to have him here,” Sam said.

“We hope this will provide a strong boost for our club numbers.”

Griffith University Clubs Coordinator, Ms Sasha Grandin, said students had many different types of clubs from which to choose.

“We have everything from climbing clubs, to cultural clubs, even professional and educational clubs, as well as the full spectrum of political groups,” Sasha said.

“It’s important for students to become involved in various activities in addition to their academic routine as it brings an important social dimension to their overall experience of being at university.”

Written by Gagandeep Singh,a first year Griffithjournalism student.