In August the Principal hosted an event for legacy pledgers in a one of a kind venue to celebrate a longstanding commitment to the University. Image Located on the western edge of the King’s Buildings campus, the FloWave Ocean Energy Research Facility represents the epicentre of the University’s marine energy research. The building houses the most sophisticated test tank facility in the world - a 25m (82ft) diameter circular test tank. This breath-taking construction is 5m (16ft) deep and can simulate scale version equivalents of waves up to 28m (92ft) high using 2.4 million litres (530,000 gallons) of fresh water. It was designed to test physical scale models of marine energy devices as well as floating offshore wind platforms and vessels. The FloWave was officially opened in 2014. Legacy of Thomas Carlyle Image Although normally used for research purposes and commercial testing, on 26 August the facility opened its doors to the Carlyle Circle summer event. Those in attendance represented only a small fraction of the present 1,362 members of the Carlyle Circle, named after Thomas Carlyle, an alumnus and Rector of the University of Edinburgh, who was one of the first to remember the University in his Will. The Principal opened the event with a word of thanks to all those who have pledged a legacy gift to the University. He emphasised how significant the legacies are in Edinburgh’s longstanding success and its commitment to excellence. Chief Executive Officer Stuart Brown, who leads the FloWave team, welcomed everyone to the facility and talked about the scale of projects and the work that FloWave does to support the development of tidal, wave and floating offshore wind industries. FloWave in action The members had an opportunity to see the water tank in practice as well as ask the FloWave team of experts any questions they had about their work and the research facility. The know-how skills of the FloWave staff as well as the uniqueness of the venue were positively received and the astonishing authenticity of the demonstration left many members captivated. We had a very interesting conversation with one of the research students which is a privilege when so much of this technology is widely reported but not really explained by people who understand the underlying science. Mr Peter McDonald and Mrs Diane McDonald The demonstration was fascinating. I had heard about the Salter’s Duck back in the 1970s, but that the simulation of being out at sea was so realistic, was a surprise. Emeritus Professor Kath Melia Many stories, one shared interest Everyone who makes a personal pledge, such as a legacy gift, is welcomed to join the Carlyle Circle, and is invited to receptions, lectures and special events such as the summer event in FloWave. Behind every legacy to the University lie individual stories and reasons. However, they are all connected by a profound interest in the future success and valuable work of the University. As to my reasons for supporting the University, not only do I owe my career to my degree but I also have fond memories of my time at the University and of the staff and students I encountered there. Mr Peter McDonald When the first Professor of Nursing Studies at the University died, I was the fourth incumbent of the chair and represented the University at her funeral at Norwich Cathedral. In conversation, her family told me that she had included the University of Edinburgh in her Will and it made me think. Emeritus Professor Kath Melia Further information If you are considering leaving a gift to the University in your Will after taking care of loved ones, or have any questions at all, please contact Morag Murison. Morag Murison Head of Legacies and Planned Gifts Development and Alumni Contact details Work: +44 (0)131 650 9637 Email: morag.murison@ed.ac.uk Related links Carlyle Circle Thomas Carlyle FloWave Ocean Energy Research Facility Salter’s Duck Publication date 20 Oct, 2016
