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THE GRADUATE UNION

NEWSLETTER January/February 2024

INSIDE GU Collegiate 2 January-March events. 4 2024 GU Collegiate events. 6 Summer Welcome BBQ. 7 March Luncheon. 8 Twilight Lecture Series 2024. 10 Piano Music Performance Series with 3MBS.

GU Promotion 11 Chinese New Year Dinner. Ramadan Iftar Dinner.

Reciprocal Club News 12 The CTA Business Club and The Commercial Travellers’ Association of NSW.

Our Members 14 Members Interview Series - Life Member Natalie Gray. 18 Sir William Wallace Stewart (Bill) JOHNSTON CBE, DSO, MC, MiD. 2 News from Graduate House 20 New historical timeline in Parkville. 22 End-of-Year 2023 Party.

24 Competition for the Design of a Graduate Union ‘Lapel Pin’ 2024. 26 Graduate Women Victoria (GWV) Online Seminars on Reasearch and Advocacy. 27 Delegates from Zeijiang Province, China visits Graduate House. 28 Organisations’ patronage. Feedback. 29 Notice of Election.

Donation 30 End-of-Year 2023 Fundraising Appeal.

JANUARY EVENTS 24, 31

Wednesday

BRIDGE NIGHT 7:15pm – 9:30pm Join us for Bridge Nights every Wednesday evening. All levels of bridge players welcome. Player fees: Members $2, non-Members $5. Food and beverages at bar prices.

FEBRUARY EVENTS 07, 14, 21, 28

Wednesday

BRIDGE NIGHT 7:15pm – 9:30pm Join us for Bridge Nights every Wednesday evening. All levels of bridge players welcome. Player fees: Members $2, non-Members $5. Food and beverages at bar prices.

Friday

SPECIAL MORNING BREAKFAST 7:30am – 8:30am

Special breakfast beverage for residents at Graduate House. Free for Resident Member.

Friday (tentative)

CHINESE NEW YEAR THEMED LUNCH AND DINNER Lunch 12:00pm – 2:00pm; Dinner 6:00pm – 7:30pm More details will be provided.

Wednesday

WOMEN’S FORUM

10:00am for 10:30am start The topic of this forum is “Does music matter?” The Women’s Forum group welcomes new members. Forum discussions are held in an informal and friendly atmosphere.

To Book: phone: (03) 9347 3428, email: membership@graduatehouse.com.au Website: www.graduatehouse.com.au

Editor: Shirley Ho. Email: shirley.ho@graduatehouse.com.au/ publications@graduatehouse.com.au All images used in this publication are the resources of The Graduate Union and public sourced domains.

MARCH EVENTS 01

Friday

SUMMER WELCOME BBQ 6:00pm onwards The Graduate Union welcomes you to a new academic year. Join us as welcome new residents and returning residents to Graduate House. Free for Resident Members, nonResident Members $17, non-Members $22.

06, 13, 20, 27

Wednesday

BRIDGE NIGHT 7:15pm – 9:30pm Join us for Bridge Nights every Wednesday evening. All levels of bridge players welcome. Player fees: Members $2, non-Members $5. Food and beverages at bar prices.

Wednesday

MARCH LUNCHEON 12:00noon – 2:00pm

With guest speaker, Julie Fisher, who is an author, keynote speaker and disability advocate. DineIn: Members $39, non-Members: $44.

Friday

SPECIAL MORNING BREAKFAST 7:30am – 8:30am

Special breakfast beverage for residents at Graduate House. Free for Resident Members.

Thursday

RAMADAN IFTAR DINNER Dinner 6:00pm – 7:30pm

More details will be provided.

Friday

3MBS GRADUATE HOUSE SERIES 12:00noon – 2:00pm

Lunch event. Please refer to page 8 for more details.

Wednesday

WOMEN’S FORUM

10:00am for 10:30am start The topic of this forum is “Gardens and Gardening”.

GU COL L EGI ATE

2024 GU Collegiate events January

February

March

Graduate House Dining Room reopens

Bridge Nights

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

Welcome Summer BBQ

Chinese New Year Themed Lunch and Dinner (tba)

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

Women’s Forum

March Luncheon

Wednesday, 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th

Wednesday, 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th

Monday, 22nd

Wednesday, 24th, 31st

Friday, 1st

Friday, 9th

Friday, 16th

Wednesday, 21st

Friday, 1st

Wednesday, 6th

Ramadan Ifta Dinner (tba) Thursday, 14th

3MBS Graduate House Series Friday, 15th

Women’s Forum Wednesday, 20th

July

August

September

Bridge Nights

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

August Luncheon

September Luncheon

Women’s Forum

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

Twilight Lecture Series

Women’s Forum

3MBS Graduate House Series

Wednesday, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th

Wednesday, 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th

Wednesday, 7th

Wednesday, 4th, 1th, 18th, 25th

Wednesday, 4th

Friday, 12th

Wednesday, 17th

Friday, 9th

Residents Mid-Year Party Friday, 26th

Thursday, 15th

Wednesday, 21st

Friday, 13th

Wednesday, 18th

Advance notice will be given if any of these events are cancelled or rescheduled.

G U CO LLEGIAT E

We are pleased to present you with the Graduate Union Calendar of Collegiate events. Thank you for your support in attending and promoting these functions.

April

May

June

Bridge Nights

April Luncheon

May Luncheon

June Luncheon

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

Women’s Forum

3MBS Graduate House Series

Twilight Lecture Series

Women’s Forum

Wednesday, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th

Wednesday, 10th

Friday, 12th

Wednesday, 17th

Thursday, 18th

Wednesday, 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th Wednesday, 1st

Friday, 10th

Wednesday, 15th

Thursday, 16th

Wednesday, 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th

Wednesday, 5th

Friday, 14th

Wednesday, 19th

Annual General Meeting Thursday, 30th

AGM Dinner Thursday, 30th

October

November

December

Bridge Nights

October Luncheon

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

Women’s Forum

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

November Luncheon

Special Espresso Coffee for Inhouse Residents

Women’s Forum

Wednesday, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th Wednesday, 2nd

Wednesday, 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th

Wednesday, 4th, 11th, 18th

Wednesday, 11th

Friday, 8th

Wednesday, 13th

Friday, 11th

Wednesday, 18th

Friday, 13th Wednesday, 20th

Last Day that Graduate House is open Friday, 20th

End-of-Year Celebration Friday, 29th

GU COL L EGI ATE

GRADUATE HOUSE

SUMMER WELCOME BBQ Friday, 1st March, 6:00pm onwards

The Graduate House Summer Welcome BBQ is held at the start of the new academic year to welcome new residents and returning residents. Members and their guests are welcome to join us! See you at the courtyard and the dining room of Graduate House!

Varieties of Grilled Meat, Gourmet sausages and Burger patties Garden Salads Fruit Salad/ Desserts Vegetarian and vegan options available

Resident Members FREE Non-resident Members $17 Non-Members $22 RSVP by Friday, 23rd February Email: membership@graduatehouse.com.au Phone: (03) 9347 3428, or come to the Reception desk.

ABN: 55 610 664 963 | IARN: A0023234B

G U CO LLEGIAT E

March Luncheon

Wednesday, 6th March

As a mum of a young boy with Down Syndrome, Julie Fisher knows ﬁrsthand the heartbreak of seeing your child be made to feel like they don’t belong.

Julie’s journey began just before the birth of her third son Darcy. When Julie and her family made a decision to provide a life of love, experiences and posi�vity for Darcy, she was compelled to share their unexpected story. Over the last 17 years, Julie’s passion for advoca�ng for inclusion and acceptance for all has con�nued to grow.

12:00pm for 12:30pm start 1:10pm for 1:15pm start

03 9347 3428 https://bit.ly/3NPmT8f Wednesday, 28th February 2024

“I am passionate about sharing this knowledge and promo�ng the importance of inclusion, acceptance and connec�on in all aspects of life. You will not only gain insights into the world of disability, but also discover prac�cal strategies for suppor�ng others and fostering inclusivity.” She speaks from the heart, in a raw and real way, engaging with the audience with her honesty and insights into the world of disability. In promo�ng awareness of the real and profound impact our ac�ons have on the lives of others, Julie inspires us all to do be�er. Julie is the author of three books, The unexpected Journey, The magic of Inclusion and From The Hearts of Mums. ABN: 55 610 664 963 I IARN: A0023234B

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Twilight Lecture Series 2024 Thursdays 18th April (Honourable Justice Jennifer Coate AO) 16th May (Dr Maurita Harney) 15th August (Lyn Allison) 5.30pm for 6.00pm start 6.00pm - 7.00pm Lecture

Prices

Combo cost $20 (includes nibbles/drink and attending lecture) You are welcome to stay for dinner after the lecture. Booking is required. (Members/Non-members rates apply for dinner meals)

G U CO LLEGIAT E

Twilight revisited: a smorgasbord of thought-provoking, inspiring lectures This year the Twilight lecture series (first held from 2013-2016) returns as a new exciting mini-series. These lectures offer a perfect way to round out your day. Stop in after work to enjoy some stimulating food for thought served as a combo with drinks and nibbles. Perhaps you might like to ‘top off’ this early evening treat with dinner in the House.

The topics The topics will take you on a delightfully eclectic journey through the esoteric realms of Royal Commissions, Law Reform and the Judiciary, to then be immersed in the hype and the reality of artificial intelligience. There will be more in 2025 but this year’s mini-series will wrap up by exploring the mysteries of one of the Nature’s largest and oldest Kingdoms - fungi with an estimated six million species only a percentage of which have been identified.

Our distinguished Speakers Launching the series will be the eminent Australian jurist, the Honourable Justice Jennifer Coate AO. Former Judge of the Family Court of Australia, Justice Coate has been involved in many Royal Commissions, including the Australian Government Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. During her distinguished career, she was appointed as the inaugural President of the Children’s Court of Victoria, Judge of the County Court of Victoria, the first female State Coroner of Victoria, and Chair of the Victorian Victims of Crime Consultative Committee. In June 2020, Dr Coate was appointed to the Victorian Law Reform Commission. Artificial Intelligence: A philosophical perspective. Dr Maurita Harney is a philosopher who has taught and researched philosophy at the ANU, at Swinburne University of Technology where she was Head of Philosophy, and at The University of Melbourne where in recent years she has been Honorary Senior Fellow (Philosophy). “The problems with AI are basically philosophical not technical” (Terry Winograd, Computer Scientist and former AI researcher, Stanford University). In this paper I wish to draw attention to some of the philosophical issues arising from recent developments in artificial Intelligence. These developments compel us to confront questions of both a conceptual and an ethical nature. They include questions about the nature of truth and reality, the role of agency and creativity, and the question of machine sentience. At a time when governments globally are considering the ‘guard rails’ necessary to manage new AIpowered technologies, these philosophical issues cannot be ignored. Back to the intelligence of the natural world. Lyn Allison, an outspoken campaigner on women’s issues and environmental reform, was elected to the Australian Senate in 1996. As a result of her work, in 2012 she was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women. Politician and campaigner, Lyn is highly respected for her contribution to environmental reform. She was a recipient of an Australian Humanist of the Year award and continues her work as a Board member of a number of organisations including Berry Street, Vision Australia and Alzheimer’s Australia. Locally among other involvements, she is President of the Westgate Biodiversity: Bili Nursery & Landcare. She will be speaking to us in her capacity as Secretary of FungiMap, a not for profit, citizen-science organisation dedicated to furthering the conservation and knowledge of Australian fungi. The line up of speakers and diversity of topics promises an exciting mini-series. Dates to reserve are 18th April, 16th May and 15th August. Watch for more details in our coming publications!

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Piano Music Performance Series with 3MBS at Graduate House We are proud to announce a series of music performances to be held at Graduate House in 2024. This music series is in collaboration with our partner, 3MBS and will take place between 12noon-2pm on the following dates. (more information on the exact start/end time of performance, tickets, etc will be available in the next issue). The pianists who will be performing in 2024 are:

Friday, 15th March: Performance by Berta Brozgul. Berta Brozgul is a sought-after, established pianist who performs widely around Melbourne venues. J.S Bach - partita no.1 in B flat major BWV 825. Alexander Scriabin - Sonata no 2 in G sharp minor, opus 19. Andante. Presto. Robert Schumann -

Fantasy in C major opus 17. 1. Durchaus fantastisch und leidenschaftlich vorzutragen; Im Legenden-Ton - with fantasy throughout and passionately delivered. 2. Mäßig. Durchaus energisch - Moderate. Energetic throughout. (in E major). 3. Langsam getragen. Durchweg leise zu halten - slowly. Keep quiet throughout.

Wednesday 19th June: Performance by Catherine Zhu (emerging artist).

Catherine Zhu is an extremely talented emerging musician who shows phenomenal potential. Details of program to be confirmed.

Wednesday 18th September: Performance by Tristen Lee.

Tristen Lee is an accomplished pianist who performs widely around Melbourne venues. Details of program to be confirmed.

G U PR O M OT IO NS

Coming up in February and March More details and menus in the next issue

The dragon is one of the luckiest and most powerful animals in the chinese zodiac. The chinese horoscope 2024 reveals that the year of the dragon, speciﬁcally the Wood dragon year will bring authority, prosperity and good fortune.

Enjoy a Chinese New Year themed lunch/dinner at Graduate House Lunch 12:00pm to 2:00pm; Dinner 6:00pm to 7:30pm Friday, 16th February 2024

Main course Ramadan Iftar Dinner

Soup

Chicken and corn

Dessert

Crispy Karaage chicken

Sweet and sour prawn (df) (gf)

at Graduate ChineseHouse vegetable stir fry (v) (gf) (df)

Sticky rice pudding (v) (gf) (df)

Fried Hokkien noodles (v+) Steamed rice (v) (gf) (df)

(gf) gluten free (df) dairy free (v) vegetarian (v+) vegan

Lunch prices: Members: $14; Non Members: $20; Dinner prices: Members: $17; Non Members: $22 ABN: 55 610 664 963 I IARN: A0023234B

In Islamic culture, Iftar is the evening meal after sunset that breaks the daily Ramadan fast. We invite you to join us at this event for an evening banquet and celebration. We welcome guests of different faiths and cultures.

REC IPROCAL CLUB N EWS

The CTA Business Club and The Commercial Travellers’ Association of NSW

Commercial Travellers’ Association MLC Centre, Martin Place Sydney, New South Wales 2000 Australia Phone: +61 2 9232 7344 website: ctabusinessclub.com

The Commercial Travellers’s Association building in Martin Place

The CTA (Commercial Travellers’ Association) Business Club is centrally located right in the heart of Sydney’s central business district (CBD). With all amenities close by, it is within walking distance to the Opera House, Harbor Bridge, Art Gallery, Circular Quay, all major shopping centers and attractions, as well as eateries and pubs. The infamous Lindt Cafe is only minutes walk away. The CTA Business Club serves as a one-stop for accommodation, meeting rooms and conference space for Commercial Travellers’ Association of New South Wales members. The Club is a part of Australian architect Harry Seidler AC OBE’s design of the iconic mushroom

building (formerly MLC Centre) in Martin Place and is very much in the style of the late 1970s. Hiding in plain view in Sydney’s city centre, inside the building, the CTA Club has remained unmodernised, unrenovated for many years. Dining and entertainment Facilities A hidden gem of Sydney nightlife, The Weary Traveller is located at the basement of the building. Still keeping to its 1970s decor with velvet booths, loud carpet and walls, the lounge was renamed The Weary Traveller, a homage to the CTA’s roots as a hotel for travelling salespeople, while the lowceilinged diner is called The Disco Bistro.

R EC IPR O CA L C LU B NEWS

Entrance to The CTA Business Club

The Bar/ Lounge

The interior of the CTA Business Club remains proudly ‘70s style

Inside the Weary Traveller. (Photographer: Jacquie Manning)

Twin room

Double room

Room amenities

Meeting Facilities

Accommodation Facilities

Offering a wide range of business services, members and their guests can experience a world-class environment at CTA, where they are provided with exceptional meeting rooms, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and flexible office spaces meticulously designed to cater to their unique requirements. Whether you need a professional space for client presentations, collaborative meetings, or a productive workspace, the CTA Business Club has versatile facilities tailored to enhance your productivity and elevate your business endeavours.

The CTA is a home away from home for the regular business traveller or the occasional visitor. The Club offers 28 accommodation rooms, with room types ranging from single, double to twin rooms. All rooms have windows and are accessible by lifts. They are fully equipped with modern amenities like mini bar, television, telephone, free WiFi, complimentary coffee/tea making facilities and daily house keeping. All rooms are of average size and very clean. There are also simple breakfast is served at the cafe.

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Members Interview Series Life member and current Chair of The Graduate Union Council, Natalie Gray visited some residential colleges in the USA on her recent trip. In this interview, she shares her views and new ideas from these visits with interviewer Emeritus Professor Martin Comte OAM (Councillor and Vice- Chair of The Graduate Union Council) and her vision for the future of The Graduate Union.

It’s a pleasure interviewing the Chair of The Graduate Union! I would like to talk about your most recent trip to the USA, particularly the residential colleges you visited. But first, tell me something about your background: I know you are a town planner. My background is in town planning and property finance, and my work is focused on institutional developments at all stages: acquiring land, development processes, and taking it through. Over the years I’ve consulted with many religious organisations – Catholics, Muslims, Anglicans, Uniting Church, Baptists and so on.

One of the things I’ve so admired about you is the fact that in recent years you have been assisting the Catholic Church to dispose of old convents for ethical use – so that they can be re-purposed, often for the benefit of the community. Yes, and I’m involved with various arms of the Catholic Church in managing properties. Two recent projects have been the disposal of a property in Wagga Wagga in New South Wales for use as a post-traumatic stress disorder facility to help veterans and first responders; and the re-purposing of a monastery in Tuscany in Italy for use as an overseas campus for a Melbourne school. The first group of girls went there in September.

You’re a graduate from The University of Melbourne? Yes, and also RMIT University.

We both joined the Council of The Graduate Union at the same time and earlier this year finished our first three-year term. Of course, you’re now the chair, and one of the many

aspects that you have been putting your mind to – in addition, of course, to the possible building project – has been the need for reciprocal club membership. Would you like to expand on that? In the past I have used reciprocal clubs. In London, I visited The Oxford and Cambridge Club. This year, when I went to America, I was privileged to stay at The University Club of San Francisco and The University Club of Chicago. I have also stayed in The Harvard Club in Boston.

Are they both reciprocal clubs of The Graduate Union? The University Club of San Francisco is and the University Club of Chicago isn’t, but I am hoping we can establish a reciprocal relationship in the near future.

You have mentioned to me certain things that impressed you regarding these clubs in which you would like to implement here. Will you share this? From both of them, there was a real sense of ‘individuality’ – knowing who they are, what their individual character is, and knowing their history. For example, at The University Club of San Francisco, they have The Black Cat Bar; this goes back to when the building was originally the Press Club of San Francisco before being taken over by the University Club. The tradition of this bar has continued; it was so-called because there used to be a black cat that was seen escaping from one of the great earthquakes. As with Graduate House, I was extremely impressed with the staff at the University Club – some real characters! And they were genuinely interested in the people who stayed there. Like us also, they’ve got a fantastic location – as does The University Club of Chicago. The history

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of the Chicago Club is different again. They have The Order of the Owl, which recognises people who have contributed to bringing new members into the club. There is also a certain quality about the rooms and facilities that make it more like a home than a ‘hotel’.

Whilst you were overseas you sent me several photographs of the San Francisco and Chicago clubs. Tease out some of the things that you think we could do here at Graduate House. I think it’s really important to share with people the breadth of the community that we are, so I’m keen, for example, to do more to recognise the different nationalities that are with us and the different cultures that are represented. And one of the exciting things about Graduate House is that this is always changing. I’m also keen to strengthen our relationship with The University of Melbourne, keeping in mind our own history: we were established over 100 years ago to support graduates of The University of Melbourne, and there are still a lot of synergies between us including, of course, our location.

The Black Cat Bar at The University Club of San Francisco

You have also mentioned to me that the clubs where you stayed have ‘extra little touches’ that can be very important. They know who you are, and if there are any problems, they quickly attend to them. And unlike many hotels in America, you don’t have to pay a concierge to give you advice about where to go out for a meal etc. I asked this at The University Club of San Francisco, for example, and they just said, “Go down to RJs in Chinatown”. I did and I had a fantastic meal and it was just a warm and wonderful place: the sort of place that only the ‘locals’ know about.

The main desk at the University Club of San Francisco

Like Graduate House, the position of The San Francisco Club is so central – just up the hill from Union Square and Chinatown – and the two main cable car routes pass the intersection. It is the same with The University Club of Chicago: right on the corner of Michigan Avenue and Munroe Street, opposite The Bean – their equivalent of our Federation Square – and near the theatres.

I noticed in one of the photos you sent me that it had guest dressing gowns. Yes, in fact both The University Club of San Francisco and The University Club of Chicago had their own dressing gowns, which were very stylish – and especially welcome when you come into your room and just want to relax after being out in cold or wet weather.

The University Club of San Francisco - View of Powell Street from the breakfast room

OUR ME MBE R S

and Cambridge Club: in London you can’t get a better location than Pall Mall! And the library and the dining experience at The Oxford and Cambridge Club is something that is well worth the experience.)

And in terms of price at these clubs – is the cost around that of an average size hotel? It’s not expensive and it is much more personal.

A typical room at The University Club of Chicago

I think the idea of a ‘reciprocal club’ is a great enticement for our members and potential members. I have been using reciprocal clubs associated other organisations for over 50 years. I think it is excellent that you want to bring this possibility to our members’ attention more. It offers many benefits. And, of course, it’s not just getting accommodation: sometimes it’s nice to be in a foreign city and be able to go to a special club just to have a drink or a meal. And this doesn’t just apply to overseas: we have reciprocal clubs in other states in Australia – and, indeed, in Melbourne. Did you stay at any other clubs in the USA on this trip? No, but they are always my default position.

The University Cub of Chicago Lounge area

Did you find anything about other university clubs in the USA? Yes, for example, whilst I was in San Francisco I thought that it would be nice to stay in Los Angeles for a while and I learnt that The University Club of San Francisco has a relationship with the Jonathan Club which is in downtown Los Angeles and also in Santa Monica; they’ve got two branches.

Did you stay at any other clubs in the USA on this trip? No, but on a previous trip I had stayed at The Harvard Club in Boston, and it was they who originally recommended the Chicago Club to me and gave me a letter of recommendation.

Tell me about the Harvard Club in Boston. The Harvard Club is outstanding. A lovely building, and well located. The staff are very friendly. One night we were sitting in the lounge when the bar closed, but the staff said to stay and then told us all sorts of things about Boston. The facilities at the Harvard Club were excellent. (It’s like The Oxford

You are leading the negotiations about the potential new building here at Graduate House. Would you like to expand on that a little? The new building is basically the redevelopment of the northern terraces – the section in the vicinity of Grattan and Leicester Streets. The Council would like to have a stronger economic base for The Graduate Union so that we can provide more benefits for our members – and increase our membership. It’s a residential building that has been approved and is very well designed. We are looking to the future to become an even more exciting and sustainable organisation. At this sensitive stage of the project I am not in a position to discuss it in further detail.

Looking into the crystal ball towards the future, say in three years’ time, what would you like to see? I would like to see a far more inviting presence of The Graduate Union, which is ideally positioned in Leicester Street and opposite University Square. I would like people to be curious to come in. I’d like to see more younger members. I’d like to see stronger connections between those who are studying as graduates and those who have been members for many years so that they can learn from each other. With my planning background, I would like to see all of The Graduate Union being used a lot better –

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better connected to our members, our community, and our unique position. I want us to be open to the world, but we need to think carefully about how we can do this in a sophisticated – and not crass – way that represents who we are and where we’re going. I would like us to recognise the national days of our members and important events in our community, whether it is the Australian community, the Melbourne community, or the University community. And I would like our links to different organisations in different countries in the world to be more visible.

You have been responsible for the Graduate Union re-joining the heads of colleges group associated with The University of Melbourne (the Heads of University Accommodation Committee). Yes, and the discussions with the other Heads of Colleges has been very welcome. Through this membership, the University has been very generous in sharing its plans with us. It’s important that we can cooperate with each other and share information that is of mutual benefit to us all. We can learn from each other.

Just a week ago we had our end-of-year celebration – you combined our previous two functions, the Chairman’s Cocktail Party and the Members Christmas Party. And the feedback already has been very positive. We are very happy with the change. It was a bold move after many years, but in part the change was designed to bring the Christmas function to the early part of December before people start disappearing. It was lovely having such a range of people attending, younger and older. And the entertainment provided by Helen Kerr-Lawley (the daughter of one of our most stalwart members, Margaret Mayers) was outstanding. The food was terrific, and the night was extremely warm and welcoming. And, as always, our staff were outstanding. I don’t know how anyone could ask for more than the staff we’ve got here at Graduate House. The diversity, the friendliness, the commitment – they never let us down.

And to return to what you were saying in relation to the reciprocal clubs in America and elsewhere, our staff are a major selling point as we open ourselves up more to members from other clubs overseas and in Australia. Well, that’s the difference between a club and a hotel. Friendly and efficient staff are a major part of the attraction for me. It’s also the other people you

meet whilst staying at these clubs. At The University Club of Chicago, for example, I was sitting on one occasion next to one of the board members, and we had lunch and talked about club issues, the histories of our clubs, and what we were hoping to do in the future. We agreed that we come from a common base with a common objective: wanting to make sure the place is the best possible for our members and others, without any opportunistic motives.

I agree that this this is a major difference from staying in a hotel: you’re able to stay in a place where the chances of meeting diverse or likeminded people and having interesting things to discuss are much higher. I should mention that The University Club of San Francisco has only 22 rooms. But it was a busy little place – lots of functions, and everybody felt welcome.

2024 is going to be a busy but exciting year for us. It will be in so many respects. We will be introducing our Twilight Series of lectures, which is being coordinated by Dr. Heather Wheat, one of our erstwhile members who has much experience with The University of the Third Age. We want to encourage people to come on the way home from work, have a very early meal, or just a drink, and join a one-hour presentation by an outstanding speaker. And then make their way home. It will be an early night. I’m really looking forward to giving it a go. And, of course, you have several activities planned.

I want to continue offering the Doctoral Journey series of lectures in Semester 2, and offer a corresponding series in Semester 1 for our residents (and others) who are studying for a Master degree by coursework or thesis. I also want to introduce our mentoring program in Semester 1 and am working with Council members on this. And we have our Pin Design Competition being launched at the start of the new year for graduate students to design a Graduate Union/Graduate House pin. We have been fortunate in having one of our members donate the prize money for this competition. It will be an exciting and challenging year!

We’ve covered a lot of ground in the interview, but I particularly wanted to highlight the issue of reciprocal clubs. You’ve shared some wonderful insights. We are indeed fortunate in having you as our Chair of Council.

OUR ME MBE R S

Sir William Wallace Stewart (Bill) JOHNSTON CBE, DSO, MC, MiD We were contacted recently by the Johnston Family who provided us with photos of medals and a degree from The University of Melbourne awarded to Sir William Wallace Stewart Johnston (1887–1962). The Johnston Library, located at the ground floor terraces of Graduate House, was named in honour of Sir William Johnston, the second President of The Graduate Union. He held the position from 1959 - 1961. To this day, the library remains a favourite corner of Graduate House and has been enjoyed by generations of postgraduate scholars from all parts of the globe. We share the citation of the degree dated 27th August, 1962 where he was awarded an Honorary LL.D. The citation made mentioned of his involvement with The University of Melbourne and connection with The Graduate Union.

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Citation for award HON LLD degree conferred to Sir William Johnston in 1962. In the book of Ecclesiasticus, it is written “Honour a physician with the honour due onto him for the uses which ye may have on him”. Today the University honours a physician in the person of Sir William Johnston not for the uses we may have of him but for what he has freely given to the University and its Medical school, and to the State. Sir William graduated from this Medical School in 1914, and after distinguished service in the First World War, he returned to Melbourne and was admitted to the Degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1921. He then served on the Honorary medical Staff of The Royal Melbourne Hospital until 1948 when he retired as senior physician and has since been consulting physician. This period of service to the Royal Melbourne Hospital and to the Medical School was interrupted by service in the Second World War, for shortly after its outbreak, Sir William was appointed to the Command of the 2nd Australian General Hospital and took this unit to the Middle East. Subsequently, he was appointed Deputy Director of Medical Services, First Australian Army Corps with the rank of Brigadier. During his active association with the Royal Melbourne Hospital, he taught clinical medicine - sometimes called bedside medicine - an approach to the sick person what has been somewhat superceded by the laboratory bench, a piece of furniture even less comfortable for the patient than the hospital bed, and an environment in which it is not easy to find a counterpart to the native dignity and human understanding that Sir William brought to the bedside of the patient. Sir William is a member of the Council of this University and a Past President of The Graduate Union whose increasing interest and influence in the University is due in good measure to his enthusiasm and hard work. He has been Vice-President of The Royal Australian College of Physicians; Chairman of the Melbourne Medical Post-Graduate Committee of which he has been a member since 1927 and a past president of the Australian Post-Graduate

Federation in medicine; he has been Medical Director of The Australian Red Cross Society and Chief Commissioner of St. John Ambulance Brigade. It would be difficult to find a greater record of steadfast and unobstrusive service and one more fitting to the ideal of the physician’s life. Times have changed in many ways for the benefit of those who are well and those who are ill and never has there been a more profound awareness of the intricacies of health and disease. In honouring Sir William, we recognise in him the symbol of the honorary physician living and practising in the community, and with his colleagues sustaining our medical school for the greater part of its first hundred years. Dated 27th August 1962.

To read more on Sir William Johnston and his connection with The University of Melbourne, go to: https:// collections.mdhs.unimelb.edu.au/objects/2027/portrait-of-sir-william-w-s-johnston-1887-1962

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New historical timeline in Parkville Parkville is home to Melbourne’s leading education and healthcare precinct and will soon boast the Metro Tunnel’s state-of-the-art Parkville Station, due to open in 2025. But a new historical display along the Metro Tunnel site fence on Barry St offers a glimpse into the suburb’s 150-year colonial history, which is far more diverse than most long-time residents would know. The installation, Triangular Dimensions, is a collaboration between the Metro Tunnel Creative Program and the Parkville Association, curated by Christine Eid of Tow Projects. It celebrates the past, present, and future of Parkville, including the suburb’s First Nations heritage, the establishment of its residential housing, its military history, biomedical discoveries, and the development of the new Parkville Station. For those interested in true crime, the timeline touches on the Brownout Strangler – but you’ll have to head down to Barry St if you want to learn more about this infamous Parkville identity. “I think residents are going to be gobsmacked at the detail,” Parkville Association president Rob Moore said. “They’re going to learn things they had no idea about.” The detailed installation, which stretches for about 140 metres, begins in 1853 when The University of

Melbourne was founded in what was then known as either Hotham (North Melbourne), Carlton or Royal Park. According to the display, the name Parkville was adopted in the mid-1870s, when it first appeared for the Parkville Cricket Club at Royal Park in 1875. While Parkville is synonymous with education, it also played a significant role during the Second World War when Royal Park was used as a temporary military camp for American troops. Parkville is not usually considered an artist’s suburb, but according to the display it was a haven for several artists’ studios throughout the 20th century. “When Sidney Nolan painted his first of the Kelly Series, he was in Parkville living in a property on Gatehouse St,” said Mr Moore. Mr Moore said it was important for residents to understand Parkville’s important role in Melbourne’s history. “It’s one of those suburbs, funnily enough, that in spite of the hospitals and the university, a lot of people don’t know Parkville,” he said, adding that having the new station named Parkville emphasised the significance of the suburb. To read from the source, go to: https://bit.ly/3He9jY2

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These displays are a stone’s throw away from the front entrance of Graduate House. The next time you visit Graduate House, do walk over (about one minute walk) towards the left, to Barry Street and check out these colourful and informative displays that line the pedestrian path leading to the University precinct.

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End of Year party Friday, 1st December 2023 For the first time in decades, the end-of year party at Graduate House saw the combination of two of our most popular GU collegiate events (the Chairman’s cocktail party and the Members Christmas party) into one big merry informal celebration and it was held in the main dining room. The party was attended by more than 130 members and invited guests who enjoyed a splendid range of canapes, finger food and drinks in a convivial atmosphere, as is the tradition of The Graduate Union (GU). The grand party was hosted by Chair of the GU Council, Natalie Gray who, in her welcome speech, said she was very happy to see everyone joining together at one function to strengthen and broaden the spirit of the community. She thanked members and guests, our preferred contractors and suppliers for their continued support throughout the year. The highlight of the evening was a special performance by reknowned singer of opera, Helen Kerr-Lawley, who has entertained audiences in

cabarets, musicals, opereeta and opera in Australia and overseas. Helen’s performance at the party consisting of Christmas songs, jokes and storytelling was enjoyed by all. Her voice was incredible... thank you, Helen for a spectacular performance! The 45 minutes performance was held in the combined Stillwell and Ian Potter room. After the performance, compère for the evening, Vice-Chair Emeritus Professor Martin Comte OAM, invited all to continue celebrating, mingling and enjoying Graduate House’s fine hospitality. A very special ‘Thank you’ to our efficient and attentive staff team — to the talented culinary team for their tireless work with the platters, the function services team for ensuring a seamless supply of food and drinks throughout. Thank you also to the administration staff for their enormous efforts in preparing for this event. Lastly, we thank everyone who attended and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Chair of The Graduate Union Council, Natalie Gray

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Competition for the Design of a

Graduate Union ‘Lapel Pin’ 2024 The Graduate Union has initiated a competition for the design of a Lapel Pin (in gold plate, silver plate or mixed media). This will take place in Semester 1, 2024. (Although affiliated with The University of Melbourne, The Graduate Union is autonomous and incorporates Graduate House.) The competition is open to any fine art/design student at the honours or postgraduate levels. The winning design will be manufactured and sold to members of The Graduate Union.

Background The Graduate Union was established in 1911 for graduates of The University of Melbourne. Today, membership is open to all university graduates from around the world. Graduate House, in Leicester St., Carlton, is a subsidiary of the Graduate Union and began offering accommodation to those studying for graduate degrees in 1961. It also provides short- and long-term accommodation for members from interstate or overseas visiting Melbourne. It has reciprocal accommodation and social arrangements with other institutions in Australia and overseas.

Competition Information: There will be two stages: Stage 1 Graduate students will be invited to submit a design by mid-Semester 1, 2024. Stage 2 Up to 3 semi-finalists will be selected and asked to produce a ‘mock-up’ of the pin in the second half of Semester 1, 2024. (Precise submission dates will be announced in January 2024.)

Prize Money The semi-finalists will each receive $500.00 and agree to produce a mock-up of the pin by the due date. (They will be given an additional $200.00 to assist in producing this.) The winner of this competition will be announced at the end of Semester 1, 2024, and will receive a grand prize of $2000.00 and must agree to give all rights, including copyright, for the production and sale of the pin to The Graduate Union. The Graduate Union reserves the right not to award a winning design if no submission is adjudged to be of sufficient merit to be manufactured for distribution to members. In this case each of the semi-finalists will be given an additional $250.

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Some Briefing notes for the competition

We want people to ask of someone wearing the pin “I love your pin: what does it represent?” or even just: “What does your pin represent?”

It must not be overly ‘large’ As a general ‘guide’, if it is a circle, it should be no more than 2 centimetres in diameter. If oval in shape it should not exceed 2.75 x 1.75 cms. But there is room for a degree of flexibility and the design does not have to be circular or oval: we are open to other shapes.

It must have appeal for all genders and all age-groups (from young members in their 20s to older members 70 and beyond). In some respect it should ‘represent’ (if this is possible!) what The Graduate Union and Graduate House represent.

Some terms that might assist this understanding are: camaraderie hospitality

exchange of ideas

socialising

intercultural friendship and support

living and sharing together membership

belonging

intellectual exchange

safety

intergenerational learning

community

local and international exchange

intergenerational learning lifelong learning

Competition entrants will be invited to visit The Graduate Union/Graduate House at 220 Leicester St., Carlton to get a ‘feel’ for the organisation.

Enquiries: Dr. Martin Comte OAM (Deputy Chair, The Graduate Union Council) email: martin@martincomte.com.au / mobile: 0412 552 989

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GRADUATE WOMEN VICTORIA

ONLINE SEMINARS ON RESEARCH AND ADVOCACY

Graduate Women Victoria welcomes all those interested in engaged research to take part in two online seminars by scientists whose research has led them into effective advocacy and policy-making. On Friday 16th February, 5.30-6.30 pm, Associate Professor Ada Cheung will present a seminar on her research on trans health and her advocacy of trans health related policy. On Friday 15th March, 5.30—6.30 pm, Associate Jane Bourke will present a seminar on her engagement with research and policy-making across a range of issues relating to ethical medical research, effective intervention and inequities related to sex and gender. To take part in these discussions please contact Professor Marian Quartly at marian.quartly@monash.edu Associate Professor Ada Cheung is a clinician scientist, an endocrinologist and a NHMRC/Dame Kate Campbell Research Fellow at The University of Melbourne. She leads the Trans Health Research Group at The University of Melbourne which aims to improve the health and well-being of the transgender, gender diverse, and non-binary community. Committed to evidence-based medicine and policy, her diverse team undertakes clinical trials in gender-affirming hormone therapy to provide robust evidence to improve the health and wellbeing of the trans community. Her research has had significant impact over the last 5 years, leading to the development of new gender clinics in Victoria, a statewide training program for health professionals and national guidelines on hormone therapy. Ada is an avid science communicator engaging extensively with mainstream media, social media and international federations to guide trans health-related policy. Associate Professor Jane Bourke (PhD) leads the Respiratory Pharmacology Group and is Chair of the Diversity and Equity Committee in the Biomedicine Discovery Institute at Monash University. She is a passionate advocate of ethical medical research and equal opportunity in access to education, and places a high priority on giving a voice to those with lived experience. Jane's research to identify improved strategies to treat lung diseases inspired her recent advocacy for the banning of engineered stone to protect workers from silicosis. Through her work with the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI), Jane is now contributing to government research policy development to address inequities related to sex and gender which currently act as barriers to high quality inclusive health and medical research.

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Delegates from Zhejiang Province, China visits Graduate House Over the years, Graduate House has regularly played host to delegates from other countries to promote and support connection, encourage friendships and networking among peers. On Friday, 8th December 2023, we were honoured by a visit from a distinguished group of educational and multicultural delegates from Zhejiang Province, China. The working lunch event was hosted by Chair of Council Natalie Gray and members on Council, viceChair Emeritus Professor Martin Comte OAM, Cr Muan Lim, Cr Molina Asthana and General Manager Daniel Clark.

Working Lunch in the Johnston Library

The distinguished guests were: •

Mr Luo Wanli - Deputy Director/Board Member from Zhejiang Provincial Education Development Centre/Zhejiang and International Alumni and Multicultural Promoting Association;

•

Mr. Lin Maosheng - Director of Talent and Graduates Services from Department from Zhejiang Provincial Education Development Centre;

•

Mr. Xia Tao - Division Chief of Graduates and Students Affairs from Hangzhou Dianzi University;

•

Mr. Yao Xiaobin - Deputy Division Chief of Graduates and Students Affairs from Ningbo University;

•

Ms Weng Lingli - Deputy Division Chief of Graduates and Students Affairs from Hangzhou Normal University;

•

Ms. Dai Yan - Division Chief of Graduates and Students Affairs from Jinhua Polytechnic

Leading the group was Mr. Luo Wanli who expressed using this visit as an opportunity to meet and learn about Graduate House’s roles and the support provided to members, how the association promotes and bring together graduates through membership,

so that educational, professional, cultural and social relations and networks are fostered and maintained. They were keen to exchange information and knowledge regarding multicultural and educational promotion and set up a long lasting connection. For information, Zhejiang Province is located on the eastern coast of China and has a total population of about 65million. It is one of the leading provinces in terms of finance, trade, economics, education, research, and technology, and is the capital city is Hangzhou (venue of the 2016 G20 Summit), and it is about one hour away from Shanghai.

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We thank the following organisations for their event bookings at Graduate House in November and December 2023 1964 MBBS Reunion Committee AMA Arts Group Australian Society for Music Education (ASME) Victorian Chapter Australian Psychological Society Melbourne Branch

Melbourne School of Population and Global Health Melbourne School of Professional and Continuing Education (MSPACE) Mental Health First Aid Australia Michael Quin (Ex PAV Group)

Australian Urban Research Infrastructure Network (AURIN)

Nutrition Society of Australia - Melbourne Regional Group

Carlton Parkville Probus

Office of the Chief Operating Officer

Carlton Parkville Rotary

Order of St. John of Jerusalem Knights Hospitaller Incorporated

Centre for Biostatistics and Clinical Trials CFMEU Manufacturing Division Department of Clinical Pathology, UoM Department of Infrastructure Engineering, UoM Department of Medical Education, UoM Department of Social Work, UoM Emeritus Professor Martin Comte - Launch of the Roy Shepherd biography Faculty of Business and Economics, UoM Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (FEIT), UoM

Parkville Conference of St Vincent de Paul Per Capita Inc. Peter Doughty Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttrauamtic Mental Health Researcher Developer Unit Retired Seniors Officers Robert Pratt’s event Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) School of Social and Political Sciences, UoM

First Super

Soroptimist International of Melbourne Inc

Institution of Civil Engineers, Victorian Local (ICE VLA) Association

Stroke Association of Melbourne

Institute of Senior Officers of Victorian Education Services

The Graduate Union Collegiate events and meetings

Leadership Victoria

The University of Melbourne Department of Medical Education

Lysander

Tomiko Morell

Marilyn Cobain (The Victorian fellows Luncheon)

Victorian State Secondary Past Principals’ Association inc.

Melba Group Melbourne Graduate School of Education

Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI)

Feedback The function was well organised. Rosie showed a lot of flexibility in the lead up to the function. The function room was just the right size for the number of guests we had. Everything worked well in the function room. Food was of a high standard. The staff were Absolutely helpful before, during and after the event. Prof Mile’ Terziovski, Swinburne University of Technology

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THE GRADUATE UNION - COUNCIL Notice of Election Nominations are hereby called for the election of three (3) Council members to hold office for three years from the date of the annual General Meeting to be held on Thursday, 30th May 2024. Any other vacancy occurring prior to the close of nominations will be included within this election. The terms of current Council members are set out in the tables below. The elected members who are retiring in May 2024 and eligible for re-election are indicated by the asterisk*. An Election Kit, available by application to the Returning Officer, contains the following essential information for any member who seeks election to Council: 1. the Nomination Form; 2. The Graduate Union Nomination and Election to Council Regulation; 3. forms for completion by the nominee to inform Members of their qualifications, experience and skills for governance; 4. declarations to be signed; and 5. other relevant information. Members should note the following key dates in 2024: - Opening of Call for Nominations - Close of Nominations - (if ballot is required) Election Material is to be submitted - Close of Voting

31st January 7th March 14th March 23rd May

The Election Kit is available from The Graduate Union offices or website, or by application to the Returning Officer at the postal or email addresses below: PO Box 2157, Fitzroy, VIC 3065

sluntz@abovequota.com.au

The closing date and time for Nominations is 7th March 2024, 4.00PM. The completed Nomination Form and other forms provided in the Election Kit should be lodged by post to the Returning Officer’s address above or by email (signed, scanned and as an attachment) to sluntz@abovequota.com.au or placed in the ballot box at the offices of The Graduate Union. The completed Nomination Form is to be received by the Returning Officer by the stated closing date and time.

Stephen Luntz

Returning Officer

Date: 22/01/2024

Elected Council members as at 31st January 2024 Until May 2024 Ms Mary Kelleher Mr Muan Lim* Ms Jane Tisdall*

Until May 2025 Mr Vincent Mirabelli Mr Lawrence Grima Dr Max Stephens

Until May 2026 Ms Molina Asthana Mr Martin Comte Ms Natalie Gray

Appointed Council members as at 31st January 2024 Until May 2024 Mr Fausto Marasco Mr Michael Lynch

D ON ATI ON



D O NAT IO N

THE GRADUATE UNION of The University of Melbourne Inc.

220 Leicester Street, Carlton, Victoria 3053, Australia Telephone: +61 (0)3 9347 3428 Australian Business Number: 55 610 664 963 Incorporated Association Registration Number: A0023234B

ww.graduatehouse.com.au