 He was associated with the foundation of the University of Queensland, became a member of the first senate in 1910, vice-chancellor in 1916, and chancellor in 1926.Thynne had joined the Queensland Volunteer Defence Force when a young man in 1867 and had attained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.He was a first-rate rifle-shot, having twice won the Queen's prize, and more than once captained the Queensland rifle team.