The Graduate Union Newsletter - September
2015
Welcome to the September 2015 Newsletter This Issue:
4 6
Coming Events
September Monthly Luncheon with Professor Jeremy Oats
32
At Graduate House Our Apparel
College Table - Mathematics and Physics with Professor Omar Foda Coming Monthly Luncheons
Health, Happiness and Wellbeing Twilight Seminar - A Panel Discussion
12
August Monthly Luncheon Review Donor’s Luncheon Review Women’s Forum Review
18 24
Resident News Sponsorship of the Graduate House Ball
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
The Graduate House Ball
Life Subscriber Promotion
University Sector News
Missed the deadline? Don’t panic ... we have good news. Due to popular demand, the Life Subscriber Membership is extended for another month until the 30th September, 2015, so if you haven’t contacted us, please do so now.
Puzzles Free Lectures at The University of Melbourne Discovering Melbourne Academic and Professional Development Meetings
Take this opportunity to secure lifelong involvement for family and friends who have graduated. Remember: membership is for graduates of any university in the world.
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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The Graduate Union is grateful to The Honorable Ted Baillieu for this wonderful speech at our inaugural Donor’s Thank You Luncheon on Sunday, 16th August, 2015
We are immensely honoured to announce that Dr Ken V Loughnan AO is the new president of the Graduate Union. Dr Loughnan AO is International Vice President of Variety The Children’s Charity and was Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Telecom Australia’s international businesses for 10 years, operating in 52 countries. He was Chairman of the Skilled Group, and for almost 20 years he was Chairman of the Bureau of Emergency Services in Victoria. We now farewell Major General Professor Jeffrey Rosenfeld AM OBE KStJ who commenced his presidency at the Graduate Union in December 2012. It has been the truest honour to have Professor Rosenfeld as President and we wish him all the best in his appointment as Founding Director of Medical Engineering at the Monash Institute of Medical Engineering, among his other prestigious appointments. www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Coming Events We invite you, Members and non-members, to attend.
September I TA L IA N C O N V E R S AT I O N DINNER
M O N T H LY LU N C H E O N
BRIDGE NIGHT
Tuesday
Wednesday
Wednesday
1, 15/09/2015
2/09/2015
02,09,16, 23, 30/09/2015
Come along to dine while l e a r n i n g t o s p e a k It a l i a n with an experienced t e a c h e r.
He a r P r o f e s s o r Je r e my O a t s’s address on “ Ti m o r- L e s t e , w h at c a n be done to reduce the mor tality and morbidity of childbir th? ”
Jo i n a g a m e o r l e a r n to play the card game Bridge. Enjoy a shared p l a t t e r f o r s u p p e r, a s well as tea and coffee.
6:00pm
12:00 midday for 12:30pm
7:20pm for 7.30pm
Members
$15
Resident Members
$10
Members
$2
No n - m e m b e r s
$20
No n - r e s i d e n t Members Concession
$30
No n - m e m b e r s
$5
General Public
$40
$35
S P E C IA L M O R N I N G B R E A K FA S T
F R I DAY N I G H T DRINKS
R E S I D E N T S’ MEET AND GREET
Tuesday
Friday
Tuesday
08/09/2015
11/09/2015
11/09/2015
No n - r e s i d e n t m e m b e r s are welcome to join R e s i d e n t Me m b e r s f o r a hearty breakfast.
Come along for an endof-week wind-down in an amiable atmosphere and join Resident and n o n - r e s i d e n t Me m b e r s in sharing collegial culture over drinks and d i n n e r.
Jo i n u s i n w e l c o m i n g new and returning Residents to Graduate Ho u s e o v e r d r i n k s a n d dinner as we share our collegial approach.
7:30am to 8:30am
6:00pm to 8:00pm
6 : 3 0 p m o nw a r d s
Drinks and dinner at our ver y reasonable bar and dining room prices.
Resident Members
No n - r e s i d e n t Members
$15
S e e Daily Menu on our website.
No n - r e s i d e n t Members
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
Fr e e $15
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WO M E N ’ S F O RU M
C O L L E G E TA B L E DISCUSSIONS Mathematics and Physics
H E A LT H , HA P P I N E S S AND WELLBEING T W I L I G H T S E M I NA R A N D TA S T I N G S
Wednesday
Friday
Friday
16/09/2015
18/09/2015
24/09/2015
The September forum topic is “ Who cares for the carers? ”
Come along and join Professor Omar Foda as he leads the discussion o n ‘ W h at i s s t r i n g t h e o r y a n d w h at i s i t g o o d f o r ? ”
C ome along and sample great tastings of food, a n d w i n e , h e a l t hy s n a c k s and chocolate with G r a d u a t e Ho u s e c a n a p é s a n d t h e n j o i n i n a Pa n e l Discussion with experts in their field.
10:00am for 10:30am
12:00 midday for 12:30pm
5:30pm then 6:30pm
Forum is free. Lunch is at dining room prices.
Lunch is at dining room prices.
Resident Members No n - r e s i d e n t Members Guests and non-members Concession
Fr e e $20 $25 $22.50
Book Now via our website, by phone 03 9347 3428, through email to admingh@graduatehouse.com.au or at the venue, 220 Leicester Street, Carlton.
LIVE
LEARN MEET
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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The
Monthly Luncheon with
Professor Jeremy Oats Timor-Leste, what can be done to reduce the mortality and morbidity of childbirth? September 2nd Resident Members Non-Resident Members General Public Concession
12:00 noon for 12.30pm $10 $30 $40 $35
ABN 5561066496
220 Leicester Street, Carlton, 3053 (03) 9347 3428 admingh@graduatehouse.com.au www.graduatehouse.com.au
IAR No. A0023234B
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Professor Jeremy Oats
Timor-Leste, what can be done to reduce the mortality and morbidity of childbirth? Professor Jeremy Oats is a Graduate of the University of Adelaide (MBBS) and Nottingham University (DM) with specialised training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Nottingham (United Kingdom). His University Appointments include Associate Professor Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and Professor Obstetrics and Gynaecology Queensland. His current positions are Professorial Fellow Melbourne School of Population and Global Health at The University of Melbourne and Chair of The Victorian Consultative Council on Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity. He is also a member of the National Maternal Mortality Advisory Committee. Previous positions held include Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Mater Mother’s Hospital in Brisbane, Royal Women’s Hospital Melbourne and Medical Co-Director of Integrated Maternity Services Northern Territory. His principal research interests are Diabetes in Pregnancy and Epidemiology of pregnancy outcomes. He is also Team Leader of a Rotary International funded project to upskill maternity service providers in Timor Leste.
ABN 5561066496
IAR No. A0023234B
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Graduate House presents
College Tables Mathematics and Physics College Tables are informal collegial lunch-time discussions on a ‘grand challenge’ issue in a graduate school field. The Graduate House College Table discussion on Friday, 18th September 2015 will be led by Professor Omar Foda, Professor in the School of Mathemathics and Statistics at the University of Melbourne. Join us for lunch as Professor Omar Foda leads the discussion on ‘What is ‘string theory’ and what is it good for?’
12:00 noon for 12:30PM
at
Graduate
House
Usual Dining Room prices apply
18th September 2015
Book online at www.graduatehouse.com.au, by phone 9347 3428, through email to admingh@graduatehouse.com.au or at the venue, 220 Leicester Street, Carlton.
ABN 5561066496
IAR No. A0023234B
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Professor Omar Foda What is ‘string theory’ and what is it good for?’ Professor Omar Foda is a Mathematical Physicist in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at The University of Melbourne. His research is in classical and quantum integrable systems, with emphasis on applications of integrability to string theory and related topics. Professor Omar’s main interest lies in mathematical physics, and particularly in ‘integrable models’, which are essentially systems of nonlinear partial differential equations that can be solved analytically and without approximation. Of particular interest to him are integrable structures in supersymmetric gauge theories and in string theories. In physics, string theory is a theoretical framework in which the point-like particles of particle physics are replaced by one-dimensional objects called strings. String theory describes how these strings propagate through space and interact with each other.
ABN 5561066496
IAR No. A0023234B
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Coming Monthly Luncheons October 7th Kenneth Park Gives illustrated lectures on art, architecture and cultural landscapes and leads walking tours all over Australia for a wide range of organisations. November 11th (Remembrance Day) Brigrader Bob Slater ‘U’ is for University, Union, Uniform, Unity and Us. www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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The Health, Happiness and Wellbeing Twilight Lecture Series and GU Tastings are proudly brought to you by the Rotary Club of Carlton and The Graduate Union of The University of Melbourne Inc
from 5:30pm
GRADUATE UNION TASTINGS The
T WILIGHT Lectures PRESENTS
from 6:30pm
Questions and Answers from the experts T H URS D AY, S e p t e m b e r 24 t h Resident Members Non-Resident Members Adults Concession
FREE $20 $25 $22.50
Book by Wednesday, 23rd September via our website, telephone (03 9347 3428), email at admingh@graduatehouse.com.au or in person at the venue, 220 Leicester Street, Carlton.
ABN: 55610 664 963
IAR No. A0023234B
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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August Monthly Luncheon Review Wednesday, 5th August 2015 Disadvantaged youth and the ever increasing slippery slope “We all dream about a safe society, but the way we treat these kids does not add to a safe society. We are fooling ourselves if we think that we can damage kids that are already damaged and spit them out back onto the street. It’s just crazy to think that can happen,” emphasized John.
Behind every word is a whole world, said author Heinrich Böll. This was indeed the case for John Walsh who presented at our monthly luncheon in August. Through his presentation it was increasingly evident that the cause for which he spoke, the state of social justice in Victoria, from his personal perspective, means more to him than language can express. The words uttered by John are a powerful reflection of his personal commitment and quest to ensure social justice equality for youths. The first part of John’s speech was undeniably controversial, but it was his intention to highlight worst-case scenarios and perhaps to be deliberately inflammatory to ensure that the reasons behind the work of the Bridge of Hope Foundation were justified, understood and mainstreamed. John made the criticisms he felt necessary to expose some possibly hidden truths, perhaps through his own perspective, but in any case, it is important to see things from another perspective in order to widen our own. John’s interest is to drive change. He re-told a story of an elderly gentleman whom he met at a Probus club event. This gentleman came up to John, tugged his coat, and said “Mr Walsh, for the sake of our kids we need to start a revolution.” Perhaps revolution is too strong a word, said John, but if anything, we need change. He explained that the situations and the circumstances are desperate, claiming that the government walks away from these kids when they get out of care. Whether or not this is accurate, John’s raison d’être is to drive change to ensure improvement and social justice equality. From John’s perspective, there is a humanitarian crisis that is happening because of the disintegration of the family and the abandonment of disadvantaged youth. The disadvantaged youth that he refers to fall under the following categories: Young people in care, young people who find themselves in youth detention centres and young single mums.
One of the things that the Bridge of Hope’s research shows is that a lot of family breakdown is often driven by financial difficulties and many of the youths that the Bridge of Hope Foundation works with are unable to get a job because they have a police record, or their disadvantaged circumstances work against a successful job interview. And another hurdle they must overcome is the fact that there are around 780,000 job seekers applying for 150,000 jobs, as a media outlet recently reported. Such facts and figures clearly upset John, and add to that his stance on the past and current political environment, the offshoring of jobs and companies, and the actions of large multinational corporations not always, in his perspective, consider the little guy. He describes the situation as a national travesty. The Bridge of Hope has some of the most relevant and qualified stakeholders in the areas of vulnerable youth and family. Today they have a roundtable called the Bridge of Hope Foundation’s Roundtable Advisory Group. The roundtable, explains John, is able to understand complex social justice matters, and through this understanding pursue their belief that any remedy that continually band aids an effect should be deemed a waste of time and money, and that continuing strain on the tax payers’ purse gives cause to our pursuance of justice reinvestment policies. “Justice reinvestment places the priority on causation rather than the common government practice of bandaiding an effect that has led to the particular cause – incarceration being a great example,” divulged John. John’s political stance then ensued. His main criticisms were of various policies and agreements. Firstly of the United National Industrial Development Organisation’s Lima Declaration in March 1975, which was supported by the Whitlam government, and saw the redistribution of world industry to developing countries. Secondly he was of the opinion that the controversial Trans Pacific Partnership would only benefit large corporations. Whether or not one agrees or disagrees with John’s stance on government and policy is not of direct importance, for the real matter here are the disadvantages that youths face when exiting care
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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or incarceration. Firstly, consider these statistics: • 6,000 kids live in out-of-home care in Victoria; • 21% of Victorian out-of-home care kids aged 10+ have been cautioned or charged by police over the last six months; • Kids in care are nine times more likely to have been charged or warned by police when compared against kids of a non-convicted parent; • The child of a convicted parent has a seven times chance of following in that parent’s footsteps than the kid of a non-convicted parent; • Somewhere between 22,000-25,000 kids have a parent in prison; As John explained, the Bridge of Hope is a vulnerable youth social justice charity that deals with these kinds of bureaucratic, political, legal and macro-economic problems everyday and they have a range of programs in place to assist with alleviating such figures. The White Dove Movement, headed by Kerry Kornhauser, Chairperson in Women in Rotary, addresses the housing needs of vulnerable young women as they exit care. Many at this time find themselves in a terrifying downwards spiral; for instance, these kids suffer great bullying because of imprisoned parents. Last year it was reported that the abuse of Australia’s most vulnerable children jumped to over 90% over the past year, and 73% of young women coming out of care have a history of physical or sexual violence committed against them. When these young women clash with the justice system, e.g. from strip searches, and consequently rebel, they end up in solitary confinement which in turn brings on mental health issues. The system is outdated, says John, and pushes these kids to the lowest common denominator. In his view the current system fails to address the underlying causes of the offending behaviour, whereas a logical system would channel resources into helping them heal. For John, incarceration should focus more on assisting these youths with improving their lives to decrease the probability of re-offending, rather than punishing them for their crimes. Considering that 49% of the kids in youth justice custody have a history of child protection services, i.e. they have come from care, life for these children does not seem to get any easier. Additionally, 50% of those kids will end up in an adult prison within 5 years of their release from youth detention and then within 2 years of being released from an adult prison, 60% will return. Supporting his argument, John then quoted a letter from Deb Tsorbaris, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare.
“ As not all young people have family or friends they can rely on for help and advice as they reach the age of 18, and have to move in from care, for some that means that they are literally placed onto the street with nowhere to call home. Approximately 40% of the people are vulnerable and so at risk without proper planning and supports. Many are facing multiple placement breakdowns, have tenuous relationships, poor employment opportunities and health concerns, often resulting in them having contact with the justice system or moving into homelessness.” “It’s this 40% that we ask the people to work with us to devise life-changing methods,” said John. Currently policies dictate that the government is required to pay for 10 days in a hotel (not of a very high quality). How can youths readjust to life in just 10 days? These kids find themselves in the most dire straits and can often end up in brothels, last year four died, and a lot end up homeless. The Bridge of Hope and White Dove movement attempt to ensure that these youths find a place upon exiting. Another initiative of the Bridge of Hope is that it trains the boys within the youth justice system to do their 120 hours of required driving before advancing to gain their licenses. The Bridge of Hope currently works with three Rotary clubs with volunteers who have been trained by Vic Roads and TAC to help assist the kids with driver’s education. Also through Bendigo TAFE, the kids are trained to receive their forklift licenses and there are also two employers involved who are willing to employ those with forklift licenses. Then there is the joint venture with RMIT, the Innocence Initiative, that sees criminology students re-investigating cases for plaintiffs who have exhausted their appeal processes. This initiative also sees other universities sending cases to be reinvestigated by the students and sees former Supreme Court Judge Frank Vincent involved and other lawyers who come and instruct the students on what they should look for in re-investigating a case. The efforts of the Bridge of Hope are proving fruitful as they are receiving sponsorship, offers from various individuals to assist with things like rental properties to house those transitioning from incarceration or otherwise, and also a mentorship program through Rotary. Such opportunities, says John, are ones that they probably have never had. The presentation by John Walsh was invigorating, and while at times controversial, his passion for helping bridge the many gaps that these disadvantaged children have in creating and sustaining some kind of normal life, is truly evident, and we at Graduate House applaud his vigour. Thanks John Walsh for an insightful talk!
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Donor Thank You Luncheon Review Sunday, 16th August 2015 Earlier this year Graduate House began an initiative to commence an annual appeal. Postgraduate students do not ask for much, but they do require the bare necessities like bookshelves, comfortable beds, desks and wardrobes. Whether Graduate House is home for those who are far from home, or staying a few nights we feel it important to ensure that we keep the exceptional standards of our rooms. And so the Annual Appeal was a way that we could reach out to our membership - to you - to ask for your support to help us reach the funding goal. From April 2015 until June 30, we were honoured to have received generous donations. From $10 to $1000, every single dollar helped us help our residents. Although the age old adage goes that no good deed goes unpunished, we would like to attempt to rephrase this: no good deed goes unnoticed. And so we designed invitations, organised eminent speakers, planned a wonderful menu for our very first Donor Thank You Luncheon. * Sunday afternoon was humming at Graduate House. Firstly, it was open day. Crowds were milling about the college, asking questions, peering into all corners of our building, and staff were most accommodating to the inquisitive nature of newcomers during their tours. Meanwhile, the guests for the invite-only donor luncheon had begun arriving. By 12:00pm the invitees including The Hon Ted Baillieu, Dr Ken V Loughnan AO, Major General Professor V Rosenfeld AM OBE KStJ, Council members and others were in Graduate House mingling and engaging with other members.
Professor Rosenfeld gave a memorable presentation to demonstrate just how our donors are helping us so greatly. “This year your support has helped to provide chairs, bookshelves, beds and wardrobes in our terrace wings ...Thank you for your generosity this year and in past years. Our 2015 annual appeal achieved a five-fold improvement on the past year raising $37, 465 to date,” said Professor Rosenfeld. Our following speakers were residents Jingyao (Betsy) Yu who is completing a Master of Accounting and Finance Degree and Abraham Arief who two days prior to the luncheon graduated with a Master of Finance. Both speakers gave an in-depth and entertaining story of their graduate pathways, and how Graduate House has played a positive and valuable role in assisting not only their student lives, but their general wellbeing though social support and the friends and memories they have made being a resident at Graduate House. As Abraham noted regarding a saying from his home country, Graduate House importantly fosters “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika - Unity in Diversity.” While guests enjoyed their culinary delights served on the day, tender scallops or minestrone soup, tender duck, beef or fish, and a classic French millefeuille or a coldset blueberry cheesecake, our final speaker for the afternoon was ready to deliver his, what was most definitely, great missive. Prior to commencing Mr Baillieu kindly acknowledged those before him including our Resident speakers Betsy and Abraham, commenting on how impressed he was with their commitment to postgraduate study and education, and also acknowledging the Indigenous communities. The Hon Ted Baillieu, who became a member of the Graduate Union in 1976 is an absorbing public speaker. His address captivated the room, his words were applicable to both young and old, and his moral, universal. Mr Baillieu begun his studies at The University of Melbourne in 1973, his alma mater in architecture. This start in architecture, said Mr Baillieu, was a life-changing experience as it equips you for life, no matter what you do.
“Your attendance shows your support for the Graduate Union,” announced Professor Rosenfeld, the first speaker of the afternoon.
“... Fundamentally an architect is somebody who has a mind for the future.” This foundation in architecture is what prompted Ted to pursue his politics career as he was involved in the master
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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and strategic planning of schools, which took him into long-term decision making. After graduating in 1976, Ted worked as architect for a number of years while simultaneously playing with politics. In time, Ted finally found himself as Premier of this state.
Professor Rosenfeld then gave the closing address. The diplomatic quality of this college is not be underestimated said Professor Rosenfeld, referring to the tremendous achievements of Betsy and Abraham and the multicultural aspects of Graduate House and its value to our society.
An intricate speech woven with his passion for Victoria and its greatness made possible by those, as he describes, as being ‘young at heart’, by those who were courageous and ambitious, who had great aspirations and dreams about the future. The great legacy in this city, explained Ted, is the product of extraordinary decisions from extraordinary people. People like John James Clark, who came to Victoria in the early 1850s at the age of 13, and who at 19 designed the Treasury building at the intersection of Collins and Spring Streets, or Josef Reid who designed the Exhibition Building, now a UNESCO Heritage listed site.
“I have a very special duty to perform,” announced Professor Rosenfeld.
“I am very much a devotee of the theory that it’s the legacy that distinguishes Victoria. That multicultural legacy, young people from all over the world, coming here in this direction ... with wisdom in their hearts,” said Mr Baillieu. This is the essence of Graduate House, explained Mr Baillieu. That we do pursue an intellectual outcome and that we do pursue the best of everything. What was inspiring to hear was the language that Mr Baillieu used as it was the language that is so frequently used here at Graduate House. The meeting of minds being a great example. This, explained Ted is a joy that sustains us all. “The joy of being touched by somebody else’s brilliance is something that stays with your for the rest of your life,” reflected Ted. “In Victoria, everyday, we live and breathe the unassailability of aspiration because it is the legacy we inherited and it is what Graduate House seeks to promote.” But what Graduate House also provides is a sense of place and belonging because as Mr Baillieu said, the most significant joy of all is the power of place and the understanding that throughout history others have experienced that which we experience today; there is a thread of connection between the past and the present, and therefore an eternal thread of place. Mr Baillieu is also connected to Graduate House, not only by membership, but by spirit as he too possesses the fundamental mode of thinking that our Members possess. We thank Mr Baillieu for giving such an awe inspiring speech that we will remember for many years to come thanks to the eternal thread of place.
Professor Rosenfeld was the 15th President of The Graduate Union, having commenced his tenure December 2012. A man with as many prestigious appointments as he bestowed upon The Graduate Union and its members the highest privilege and honour. He was, however, ready to pass on his presidency, the donor luncheon being the forum where he was going to announce the new President of the Graduate Union. “It has been a privilege to work with such a professional and forward looking group, who always act in the best interests of the Graduate Union,” said Professor Rosenfeld. He then announced the new and 16th President of the Graduate Union as Dr Ken V Loughnan AO. Among many prestigious positions, Ken is also the international Vice President of Variety, The Children’s Charity, a global institution which focuses on improving the lives of children in need. We are honoured to have Dr Loughnan as our new President, a distinguished Australian. Ken announced his excitement in commencing work with the Graduate Union Council and committees and helping in improving the quality of the meeting of the minds within the Graduate Union. He kindly also stated his excitement in working with the Graduate House team, and thanked Professor Rosenfeld for propelling the Graduate Union even further during his time as President. It was with great delight and honour that Dr Loughnan then presented Professor Rosenfeld with an award of Signal Honour. The success of the Donor Luncheon was another sign that the Graduate Union is of an international standard, resting on the efforts of many great, distinguished and eminent individuals. We were honoured to have had an attendance of 106 guests, and we are honoured to be an association for Members, by Members. Thank you to everyone who attended our luncheon, but really this luncheon was for you all. You all made it the very special day that it was.
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Women’s Forum Review Wednesday, 15th July, 2015 Should we question the recipients of and reasons for Australian awards and honours? The following are salient points discussed at this forum. To the uninformed, it often appears that recipients of Australian awards are people who are in paid, high profile positions in commerce, industry, defence, etc. supported by secretaries, lower level employees and who are in situations where they have more control over the allocation of their time and resources than average citizens. Figures also indicate that the majority of recipients in these categories are male. This view needs to be balanced by the fact that regardless of the background circumstances, recipients (albeit the lead person in a team effort) are the ones who ultimately must accept responsibility for outcomes, successful or otherwise. While the receipt of an award usually brings personal recognition, prestige and kudos there is not always any personal gain attached to an award, financially or professionally. The influence of media reporting can be extremely significant in the way the public views any individual award. A recent example of this was the public reaction to the award given to Prince Philip by our Prime Minister’s “captain’s call”. The negative reports failed to note positive inputs the Prince had made to several Australian endeavours over many years. It can be tempting to make judgements about the worth of a recipient’s efforts without having access to the full picture. While it appears that some recipients accept awards for position rather than personal effort, it is frequently the case (perhaps known only to those who have a closer or more personal contact with the full picture) that there is a wealth of effort, experience and sacrifice of disposable time (and perhaps even financial gain) behind the nomination. An example was given of medical skill devoted to repair and restorative work on those unable to afford that sort of expertise rather than devoted to cosmetic work on those able to pay high fees. An intangible factor behind many awards is what can be described as “generosity of spirit” - a situation where worthy people are prepared to put time and effort into projects which make the world a better place with little thought of rewards or recognition of any kind. Given the fact that many more men than women receive the highest level awards available in Australia it would be remiss not to recognise that recipients who are married are frequently supported by women who devote their time to raising children and maintaining a smooth home environment! In conclusion it was decided that once a nomination is successful (particularly at the higher levels) it would be helpful to have publication of more detailed information about the broader basis of the decision. This would perhaps increase the level of understanding in the public arena and maybe even inspire a willingness amongst those of us who wonder “why” to consider nominations of, a more diverse range of worthy people amongst those who don’t really know how the system works!
Coming Forum 16th September Who cares for the carers? The forum is free. Lunch is at Member and non-member prices. www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Resident News “Each person must live their life as a model for others.” - Rosa Parks (1913 - 2005)
Graduate House Residents’ Research Talks Last issue we introduced you to the Resident initiative of research talks. July saw another instalment in the series, and the following review was provided by Resident Liliana Bray. On the 14th of July we had the third in a series of talks presented by Graduate House college Residents on their particular areas of research. This month we heard from two Residents. First was Graduate House Student Group president Abraham Arief, who is currently completing a Master of Finance at the University of Melbourne Business School. His talk was entitled ‘Behavioural Finance: How Your Behaviours Affect Your Investment Decision Making’. This talk mixed business and psychology, examining how our behaviours and cognitive biases can affect our thinking in the area of finance. The second speaker was our duty resident, Chanchal Chandramouli from the Cardiac Phenomics Lab of The University of Melbourne. Her talk was entitled ‘Heart Failure in Diabetes: Are men and women different?’.This talk explained the basic biology of how females and males differ in both heart anatomy and physiology, and in their responses to diabetes. Chanchal’s research in mice seeks to replicate heart failure-like states to better examine these effects. These talks were very well received by the student body. We look forward to our next set of Research Talks.
“I think the research talks are an excellent opportunity to get to know and even collaborate with other students at grad house. We live amongst very clever minds but we never get to hear about their projects that they are so passionate about. So kudos to the social committee for this initiative!” – Chanchal Chandramouli To get involved with the research talks contact Dennis Danipog deindanipog@gmail.com. For past reviews you can also visit ghstudentgroup. wordpress.com GSA farewells Josh Liew, Departing Council Member
How did you get involved with the GSA? Through a mixture of acquaintances and opportunity. I attended a few GSA-run events when I started my postgraduate studies (Feb
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Resident News 2014) and was fortunate to meet some GSA staff and council members, some of whom I would continually run into, and eventually kept in touch with. I never held any intention of joining the GSA as part of the student council, but when a vacancy arose in early 2015, I thought ‘why not’? Prior to my joining the GSA, I was heavily involved with an international student club, which I immensely enjoyed. What is your favourite memory from the GSA? One memory that stands out was our cinemaon-the-lawn event which we held at the end of semester one orientation week. The first time I attended this, in early 2014, was when I initially arrived in Melbourne from Perth. One year later, I found myself on the other side, helping organise the evening and accompanying activities thinking about where I was one year earlier felt a little surreal. Also, the simple act of sharing a film with a group of other students made me feel really connected to our graduate student body. How did your time with the GSA change your student life? Joining the GSA made me more engaged with issues that affected graduate students - I found myself attending rallies (something I’d never previously done), acting as a student representative for various university committee meetings, and even attending a conference in Canberra (as part of the GSA-led ‘Australia Needs a Brighter Future’ campaign). Another aspect that changed once I joined the GSA was the sheer amount of people I met - whether other students, GSA staff members or otherwise. Some of these fleeting conversations developed into great friendships that I’m sure I’ll treasure a long time after my student days. Having the opportunity to meet so many people was definitely one of the most rewarding aspects. What was the biggest “win” that you experienced at GSA? I was really proud of overseeing a varied and diverse events calendar as the GSA Activities Officer. In particular, our end-of-semester Cocktail Party stood out as a win. A large part of the credit, if not all, goes to the GSA staff members (shout-outs to Sebastian, Stuart and Simon, the ‘doers’ within the GSA). We spent a lot of time trying to conceptualise a ‘theme’ that would foster conversation amongst the attending students. Eventually we settled on the revellers getting to display their faculty colour by providing small ribbons which they could attach to their attire (with donations from these
sent to the Nepalese Earthquake disaster aid). It seemed to get the students talking and meeting new people, which I believe is a really important part of any student experience - and something that the GSA has been focusing on improving. How do you see the GSA benefitting the postgraduate student body? I think it’s easily and often overlooked how different the needs of postgraduate students are to undergraduates. Accommodation, finances, branching out, dealing with stress, fostering resilience and mental health; these issues are all present at undergrad level - however, they seem to become even more important as a postgraduate student. Furthermore whilst dealing with all of the above, graduate students are often facing new academic challenges, all whilst the impending question of ‘what do I do next?’ creeps ever closer. I’m not suggesting the GSA has all the answer to these problems, but the fact that the GSA can exist as the first point of contact for our students, offering some level of guidance and support, cannot be understated. How different would things be, do you think, without the various initiatives of the GSA? The challenges facing student unions, such as the GSA, do worry me. I’d hate to think what student life would be like without the GSA around. Graduate groups (groups run by students within a program and funded by the GSA) wouldn’t exist - which would be an huge shame. I also think there would be a lack of voice generating discussions about graduate student needs, and issues that affect graduate students. Perhaps most sadly, there would be much less events that support students, academically and socially. What have you achieved that you think was somewhat due to your involvement with the GSA? I’d like to think I’ve helped grow awareness of the GSA during my involvement. I believe more and more students are becoming aware of the GSA and what it can do for them. I remember during my nomination for the vacant council role on the GSA, there were maybe four to five other students interested. For the current vacancy, at last count there were over twenty nominations. I think this indicates that more students are interested in contributing and making a difference in the lives of their fellow students. I also think that as an organisation, we’re slowly realising how immense the social aspect of student life is, and how easily that can overlooked during graduate studies. We’re seeing a really big shift in the events that the GSA provides, and what students
www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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expect from the GSA. This was something I was especially conscious about making a difference in when I joined the GSA, having gone through the experience of moving interstate for studies. I’d like to think in some small way I’ve contributed to that goal. What are your next steps? I’ve accepted a graduate role in IT and business consulting. I never would have thought I’d be working in the area when I started studying communications and editing, but I’m enjoying it so far. I’ve been fortunate in that I get to work with some really driven, talented and good
people. It’s taught me that kindness and a sense of humour can take you far, wherever you are. More excitingly, I’m planning on going to the States at the end of year! Remember that as a Resident at Graduate House, you are also automatically a member of the Graduate Student Association (GSA). Stay up to date with their latest events and other activities through their site http://www.gsa.unimelb.edu. au/ And don’t forget that GHSG is a group member of GSA.
Meet your new Graduate House Student Group (GHSG) Committee
Pravin Siriwardena David Allinson President Vice-President
Bingqiao Chen (Abby) Treasurer
Bernice Carrick Co-Secretary
Parisa Shiran Co-Secretary
Non- Executive Committee
Liliana Bray Publicity Co-ordinator
Roberta Grant Arts Co-ordinator
Wu Lei Sports Co-ordinator
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Call for Expressions of Interest (EoI) Sponsorship of the Graduate House Ball 10th October 2015
EoI Closing Date: Tuesday 1st October, 2015 by 4.00pm by email to publications@graduatehouse.com.au in the EoI Indicate:
Contact details and website of potential sponsor.
≤ 50 words why you value the opportunity to show support for graduates through sponsorship. results: by 5th October, 2015. prospectus:
publications@graduatehouse.com.au
Platinum
Gold
Silver
Other
September,2015
✓✓✓
✓✓
✓
✓
during the Ball
✓✓✓
✓✓
✓
✓
following the Ball
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✓
Sponsors are profiled: before the Ball *material due 30th
Australian Business Number: 55610664693 Incorporated Association Registration Number: A0023234B
220 Leicester Street, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia Telephone: +61 (0)3 9347 3428 Facsimile: +61 (0)3 9347 9981 www.graduatehouse.com.au admingh@graduatehouse.com.au
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A Night at the Opera
Proceedings Each course will be introduced by an opera singer
6:30 pm CanapĂŠs and Drinks
7:15 pm EntrĂŠe
7:45 pm Mains
8:15 pm Dessert
Date & Venue
8:45 pm until late
Saturday 10 th October
Menu
at
Mains
Graduate House 220 Leicester Street, Carlton, 3053
Games , Dancing, Fun, Intrigue
Entree
Mushroom Risotto
Eye Fillet Steak Vegetarian Option Provided
Dessert Tiramisu
RSVP by Monday, 5th October, 2015. We cater for all dietary requirements provided we have at least seven days notice and clear instructions. A surcharge may apply.
Attire The 2015 Graduate House Ball is a formal masquerade.
Formal Dress Awards will be presented throughout the evening.
Cost Resident Members $45.00 Graduate Students $55.00 Non-Resident Members $65.00 General Public $120.00 Concession $110 For booking information, phone (03) 9347 3428, email admingh@graduatehouse.com.au or visit us at 220 Leicester Street, Carlton.
Reservations Guests who reserve a table of ten by the RSVP date 5 October will receive a 10% discount on each ticket for that table. th
For reservations of five people or more, we advise that guests contact us as soon as possible to secure seating at the same table.
The Graduate House Ball
University Sector News
Stories that may be of interest to our Members
Notes From Gail Kelly In 2008 Gail Kelly gained her position as CEO of Westpac during the upheaval of the Global Financial Crisis. Since then the crisis has subsided a little, but the number of women in C-Suite positions still seems to lagging. In Australia the top 200 companies only have ten female CEOs.
“He walked out of prison with no bitterness, he walked in other people’s shoes ... that’s what leaders do ...” she said.
Such figures are perhaps what has inspired Ms Kelly to exercise her role as the humanitarian aid agency’s CARE Australia’s ambassador for women’s empowerment, a role that has also seen her visiting CARE projects in Malawi in 2012 and Cambodia in 2013.
But in Ms Kelly’s view, one of the most important traits for leaders is self-awareness, and being aware of how a leader is around others, how they make them feel and why.
But more recently Ms Kelly gave a master class in the “generosity of spirit” at a Melbourne fundraiser for those in Vanuatu effected by Cyclone Pam in August
Of course, Ms Kelly also looks to other CEOs as role models such as Jack Welch, the former CEO of GE and George Kelly of Southwest Airlines.
“You need to be aware that there is a whole group of people observing you. You need to be aware that you need to look at people, smile at people, acknowledge people everywhere you go.”
The former CEO divulged a few of her life lessons and advice that she holds close to her heart.
Henry Kissinger, Secretary of State during President Nixon’s tenure, once said “the task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been.”
“To be a leader you have to like people, genuinely like people,” Ms Kelly was quoted in a recent article in the Australia. She added that she likes the “richness, variety and ambiguity of people.”
These lessons from Gail Kelly, are a nice glimpse into the world of the CEO, and that leadership is more than power, but about establishing positive relationships with everyone around them.
Being born and raised in South Africa during the reign of Nelson Mandela, Ms Kelly certainly has a varied and unique perspective on life. She stated in South Africa she “grew up in a kaleidoscope of difference” and through the 70’s til the 90’s she also moved through the motions of the apartheid in South Africa
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/ gail-kelly-explains-true-leadership/stor ye6frg8zx-1227465443725
She cites Nelson Mandela as a great influence.
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University Sector News
Stories that may be of interest to our Members
Farewell to an Icon
The iconic Age sorting facility in Tullamarine has been bought for $16 million by Mr Bobby Zagame who is the managing director of The Zagame Group, which owns and operates a luxury car dealership.
The rise of e-content has created a problem for many print publishers as advertisers look towards cheaper online advertising options, leaving the rather costly print advertisements behind.
Opened in 2003, the 24,0002 metre site which also is home of the 40m glass structure resembling a rolled up newspaper, cost Fairfax $220 million to develop.
Another problem attributable the financial downslide of publishers is the availability of online classifieds, which also counted for a fair amount of revenue for publishers.
The facility was decommissioned in 2012 while Fairfax was restructuring its business models and was put on the market two years ago.
The Fairfax structure at Tullarmine has been an iconic part of Melbourne for quite some time, as trips to and from the airport would usually yield the question, “what is that?�
In time the glass spire will be re-branded to fit the Zagame logo. A similar fate has occurred for the Fairfax plant in Chullora, Sydney which was sold to property group Charter Hall for $45 million. According to a Fairfax press release, the contracts have been exchanged with settlement expected to occur on 2nd November this year.
A Melbourne icon, although small, it still represented the creative approach that Melburnians adopt in every facet of life. http://www.afr.com/real-estate/car-dealerzagame-buys-fairfax-medias-melbourne-printsite-20150804-gir320
The sizeable Chullora plant had an area of 37,6002 metres. The building completed its development in 1995 and cost Fairfax $340 million. Both the Chullora and Tullamarine facilities have therefore sold at a great loss to Fairfax. As the publishing giant clambers to rebuild its business model in the midst of digital disruption, we have seen many large and small scale changes to the publisher, from paywalled content online, to other financial rearrangements. www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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Puzzles Mind benders for our Members
Sudoku Sudoku is an 81 square grid comprising of nine square blocks, each with nine cells. To complete this puzzle, all blank cells must be filled with a number between and including 1 and 9. Each number can only appear once in each nine celled block, row and column.
Last edition’s results
Kakuro Use the numbers 1 to 9 to fill the empty cells so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the clue on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on top. Each number can only be used once per row/column.
Last edition’s results Please note that there might be more answer combinations possible.
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Cryptic Crossword
Across 1. 4. 7. 8. 9. 10. 12. 14. 16. 19. 20. 21. 22.
Visit father at home (3,2) Bitterness constrains good cobblers (5) Celebration may be fast and live (8) Phosphorus or potassium found in meat (4) Tender god of love comes back (4) Edible leaves for chaps in mess (7) Apt to take what belongs to others (11) Team members chopped parsley (7) Vessel with second-rate gear (4) Tin-opener, small and dainty (4) More than shy and gloomy! (8) Western city to avoid (5) Start a fight (3-2)
Down 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 11. 12. 13. 15. 17. 18.
Name of man responsible for seaside structures (5) A supporter of mine (3-4) Sailors in the shade (4) Approximate place for pitchers (8) Flower out of bed, nothing raised around it (5) Some wear a cheerful expression in affliction (7) More of us composed a quartet (8) Everyone was in debt, but that’s permissible (7) Fruit found in bed after almost thirty days (7) Surrender return on investment (5) In August one has enthusiasm (5) Fish that may be smoked or else stewed (4)
Last edition’s results Across: 1. Past 3. Abseiler 9. Leotard 10. First 11. Terse 12. Gungho 14. Absent 16. Alison 19. Russia 21. Nicks 24. Abide 25. Current 26. Rustling 27. Skye
Down: 1. Palatial 2. Scour 4. Bodega 5. Elfin 6. Larches 7. Ritz 8. Takein 13. Anisette 15. Studies 17. Liners 18. Cancan 20. Spell 22. Check 23. Hair
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Meet at our centrally located facility before and after free Public Lectures held at various locations around The University of Melbourne. These lectures are usually held in the middle of the day or early evening. See http://events.unimelb.edu.au/all/free-public-lecture. Non-members are welcome also to meet, dine, refresh or debrief here at Graduate House. Date
Time
Venue
Faculty or School
Title
Wednesday, 12.00pm - Leigh Scott Room, The University 2nd 1.00pm Baillieu Library, The of Melbourne September University of Melbourne, Parkville Faculty of Arts Wednesday, 5.30pm - Theatre D, Old Arts 6.30pm Bldg,Grd Floor, Parkville 2nd September
Getting lost in the bush
Wednesday, 6.30pm 2nd 8.00pm September
Patriotism in War and Peace
Thursday, 3rd September
6.45pm 7.45pm
Saturday, 5th September
1.30pm 2.30pm
Tuesday, 8th September
5.30pm 7.00pm
Tuesday, 8th September
6.30pm 7.30pm
Wednesday, 1.00pm 9th 2.00pm September Tuesday, 15th September
6.00pm 7.00pm
Tuesday, 15th September
6.30pm 7.30pm
Thursday, 17th September
6.30pm 8.00pm
Tuesday, 22nd September
6.30pm 7.30pm
Thursday, 24th September Monday, 28th September
Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch Building, Parkville
Faculty of Arts
Public Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Arts Old Arts Building, Grd Floor, The University of Melbourne, Parkville Theatre A, Elisabeth University Murdoch Building, Library Parkville Woodward Conference Centre, Melbourne Law Building, 185 Pelham Street, Carlton Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch Building, Parkville
Melbourne School of Engineering
Multifunction Room, The Ian Potter Museum of Art, Swanston Street, The University of Melbourne, Parkville Court 1 (8A), Federal Court of Australia, Level 8, 305 William Street, Melbourne Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch Building, Parkville
Ian Potter Museum of Art
Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch Building, Parkville
University Library
Dr Grace Moore
University Library
6.30pm 7.30pm
Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch Building, Parkville
Faculty of Arts
6.30pm 7.30pm
The Oratory, Newman College, 887 Swanston Street, Parkville
University Library
Enquiries sshears@unimelb.edu.au
Call 03 8344 0269 Hollywood North and its Associate Professor Enquiries Transpacific Turn Helen Leung daniella.trimboli@unimelb. edu.au
Paradoxes of language learning in multilingual society
Professor Simon Keller
Call 03 8344 9856 Enquiries jacksonb@unimelb.edu.au
Professor Ryuko Kubota
Call 03 8344 1521 Enquiries masu@unimelb.edu.au Call 03 8344 7775 Enquiries cjbowden@unimelb.edu.au
Luxury Textiles: painting Dr Ursula Betka and gilding workshops in medieval and Call 03 8344 3973 renaissance Europe Bringing Australia’s Professor Emeritus Enquiries Broadband Network into Rod Tucker events@eng.unimelb.edu.au the 21st Century Call 03 9035 4085 Down the Rabbit Hole: Dr Kate Challis Enquiries an intimate look at cjbowden@unimelb.edu.au Rothschild Prayer book Call 03 8344 3973 within a new era of art production and society Parchment: from Ms Libby Melzer, Enquiries Medieval goats to Ms Grace Pundyk svetlana.matovski@unimelb. Tasmanian marsupials edu.au
Melbourne Law Judges in Conversation: The Honourable School agency and attribution Justice Jonathan Beach, Professor Sarah Worthington Faculty of Arts Women who read are Professor Dagmar dangerous’: illuminated Eichberger manuscripts and female book collections in the early renaissance Faculty of Arts History at the Professor Andrew crossroads: A May Melbourne story
Theatre A, Elisabeth Murdoch Building, Parkville
Bookings and Enquiries
Speakers
Chrysalis to butterfly: the evolution of the book of hours from manuscript to print Sweet Honey in the Rocks: honey, bees & beekeeping in the ancient near East Two fifteenth century items from the Kerry Stokes Collection
Call 03 8344 5148 Enquiries law-events@unimelb.edu.au Call 03 9035 1111 Enquiries masu@unimelb.edu.au Call
03 8344 7775
Enquiries jacksonb@unimelb.edu.au Call
03 8344 1521
Professor Bernard Muir
Enquiries cjbowden@unimelb.edu.au
Professor Gil Stein
Call 03 8344 3973 Enquiries jacksonb@unimelb.edu.au
Call 03 8344 1521 Mr Callum Reid, Dr Enquiries Elaine Shaw cjbowden@unimelb.edu.au Call
03 8344 3973
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Discovering Melbourne Living in Melbourne, which was recently crowned the world’s most liveable city, fifth year running, we are lucky to be surrounded by proactive individuals in many fields who purvey not only fine foods, but curate inspiring exhibitions, design marvellous buildings and tours, and host regular fetes and festivals for anyone, of any age, with any interest. This is what makes Melbourne great, the tireless efforts of its denizens, but also the engagement and interest from the community. For the new Melburnian, it’s always helpful to have a guide to introduce them to the wonders of this city. We so present our first mini-guide to Melbourne for postgraduate students!
CAFÉS Akrwright & Co. 611 Nicholson St, Carlton North A hint of England is found at Arkwright & Co. a quaint diner/cafe in Carlton North. A&C boasts a fine selection of teas, from Oolong to Earl Grey, Carlton Seven Seeds coffee, and with all local produce, and a tasty lunch menu with pastries and sandwiches. Maillard, 2/347 Fitzroy North
St
George’s
Road,
Maillard is a toast and espresso bar in Fitzroy North, taking the seemingly simple art of toast to new (delicious) heights. From a toast engulfed with tahini, drizzled with honey and topped with a generous sprinkling of copped pistachio nuts, to the classic avocado on toast, it is all delightful. NORA, 156 Elgin Street, Carlton 156 Elgin Street, Carlton is the home of Nora where hot chocolate takes a delightful turn. You are served a scoop of thick ganache, and you can
pour piping hot milk over it to make it the way you want. A diverse selection on the lunch menu includes cured pork-belly, chicken liver pâté and home-made sourdough. Nora is also famous for their charcoal-based chocolate tomato tart, flavours worthy of a trial. Two Birds, 31 Peel Street, Collingwood Another classic inner-city haunt for the cafe connoisseur, Two Birds serves an inspired menu from breakfast options to larger mains. Porridge, eggs, burgers and otherwise, the menu also includes vegan and vegetarian options. It is also the perfect place to do some study as it also has free wifi. A win for anyone.
EVENTS Melbourne Writer’s Festival From August 20 to 30 the annual writer’s festival will once again run it’s literary focused festivities. This year promises to be a treat with panels, presentations and discussions from writers including Will Self, I Quit Sugar’s Sarah Wilson, Anna Bligh, J M Coetzee, Annabel Crabb, Eleanor Catton, Ita Buttrose, Graeme Simsion and more. Browse the events at http:// mwf.com.au/ Laneway Learning Melbourne LLM offers cheap and fun classes in a wide range of different areas, providing the perfect break from study or work. You can find classes to learn how to make body oils, partake in some beer tasting, make soy candles, learn how to breakdance, tricks of the trade of botany and there is even a class for the astronomically curious! Visit http://melbourne.lanewaylearning. com/
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Academic and Professional Development Meetings Thank you for your patronage The following groups from The University of Melbourne have convened meetings, workshops and seminars at Graduate House Department of Finance Lunch
Department of Infrastructure Engineering
Global and Cultural Mental Health Unit
24th July 5 attendees
1st July 30 attendees
Melbourne School of Population and Global Health
University Library Marketing Workshop
UoM Commercial Ltd - Network of Schools and Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Leadership
29th July 50 attendees
30th July 30 attendees
13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd, 24thJuly 208 attendees
1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10thJuly 145 attendees
Melbourne School of Land and Environment
28th July 11 attendees
The patronage of organisation Members in charitable, not-for-profit, government and professional development sectors is acknowledged, as is that of our many Members who organise functions. We look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Australian Centre for Career Education (ACCE)
Australian Federation of Modern Language Teachers Association (AFMLTA)
Arts Access Victoria (AAV)
Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE)
24th July 15 attendees
8th, 9thJuly 36 attendees
8th, 28thJuly 61 attendees
2ndJuly 20 attendees
Australian Asian Association (AAA)
Australian Film Base (AFB)
Australian Food Hygiene Services (AFHS)
Australian School of Applied Management (ASAM)
6th July 6 attendees
7th, 14th, 23rd, 28th July 60 attendees
28th July 23 attendees
20th, 21st, 22nd July 96 attendees
CM4 Barry Dance Retired Senior Officers Lunch
C4M Consultants
Catholic Education Office Melbourne
Campus Living Villages (CLV) Melbourne Pty Ltd
6th July 17 attendees
30th July 2 attendees
30th July 38 attendees
3rd July 6 attendees
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Academic and Professional Development Meetings
Council of Professional Teaching Association of Victoria (CPTAV)
CRC for Spatial Information
DCA Advisors Pty Ltd
International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Australasia
29th July 15 attendees
21st July 21 attendees
9th July 12 attendees
22nd July 5 attendees
LUNCH MEETING International Student Advisers Network of Australia (ISANA)
John Cain Foundation
Melba Group
Melbourne Dental Clinic (MDC ) Planning/Strategy Workshop
31st July 70 attendees
1st July 60 attendees
31st July 18 attendees
24th July 25 attendees
Modern Greek Teachers Association of Victoria (MGTAV)
Modern Language Teachers’ Association of Victoria (MLTAV)
Order of St John
Organisation Development Australia (ODA)
6th, 8th, 14th, 22nd, 23rd July 57 attendees
21st July 55 attendees
8th July 8 attendees
29th July 20 attendees
Policy & Projects ILM Training
Probus Club Inc Carlton Parkville
Research, Innovation and Commercialisation
Rotary Club of Carlton D9800, Heritage Cluster, Lunch and Board Meetings
6th, 7th July 26 attendees
14th July 64 attendees
23th July 40 attendees
7 th, 14 th, 15 th, 21st, 28 th July 124 attendees
Rushall Consulting Group (RCG) Mastery in Deep Facilitation
School Library Association of Victoria
27 th, 28 thJuly 19 attendees
16th July 38 attendees
POLICY AND PROJECTS
Social Work Department (SWD) Writing Group
Supply Chain Logistics Association of Australia (SCLAA)
7 th July 8 attendees
16th July 6 attendees
The Graduate Union GU Collegiate and Governance Meetings
Turkish Teachers Association of Victoria (TTAV)
Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC)
1st,3rd,7th, 8th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 29th July 342 attendees
10th July 8 attendees
14th, 24th June 35 attendees
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At Graduate House
Stories around Graduate House Visits from our Reciprocal Associations
This month saw the Lukamto family and others visiting Graduate House from our Reciprocal Association The National University of Singapore (NUSS), a g r a d u a t e society. The family enjoyed the culinary team’s Mexican themed lunch. Having not visited Graduate House before, they certainly enjoyed their short stay. We also welcomed two other members of NUSS who visited Graduate House for the first time to visit their daughter who is studying at The University of Melbourne. “It’s very close to the university so we can have lunch and see our daughter. It’s very convenient,” they said. Thinking Differently About Hemp
Is Hemp a good alternative in terms of stability and sustainability? The answer is a resounding yes. Darren Christie, CEO of carbon conscious building products and R&D firm Developing Sustainable Directions says that like any other material today, it is impossible to predict the stability of any given structure. “As far as sustainability and the environmental impacts that this [hemp] has, it is less than what we’re using today. It’s all about sustainability. Hemp materials are carbon neutral which means that it pulls carbon back into the soil,” said Darren. Hemp plants are currently legally grown in various parts of Australia, and Victoria was the first state to pass legislation permitting growers, under licence to grow industrial hemp. “We grow this in Swan Hill, South Australia, Geelong,” said Darren. In fact, Northcote has one of the first hemp homes, and according to Darren, there are a few more around Victoria. In the Graduate House dining room, Darren had laid out a range of items from body butter, clothes, oils and lip balms which all have one thing in common: they are, of course, made from hemp. Also laid out were the various compositional states of hemp – from the natural plant, to one of its final manufactured states as a solid slab. “Take a look at the wall properties: it’s fire resistant, it’s strong (but not load-bearing yet, so it can’t be used on external walls), it is also termite resistant and importantly, carbon neutral,” enthused Victoria Petrevska, the Project Manager. “With this many purposes and such a positive environmental impact, you really want this to be grown and used, instead of cutting down forests,” she said.
Would you build a home out of hemp? Students from The University of Melbourne and Graduate Union Members are trying to change your mind.
Everyone involved with the project agrees that it is imperative that we must to get over the negativity surrounding hemp and get farmers involved to have enough production to then take it to larger manufacturers, where hemp can replace other unsustainable materials. Such a perception-shift however would be rather difficult. Hemp comes with its own negative connotations; however, there are a few misconceptions. Firstly, hemp is the cousin plant of the marijuana plant, but the ingredient in marijuana which is responsible for
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Page 32
At Graduate House
Stories around Graduate House the mind-altering effects (tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC) is of a significantly lower concentration in industrial hemp than it is in marijuana.
From left to right: the harvested hemp, processed until it’s most usable form
A sample wall made from hemp
“When I first heard it I immediately thought of marijuana, but once you start to see the many different purposes of hemp, those negative perceptions do tend to disappear,” said Victoria. “We need time and marketing and put it in the system as quick as we can and people will see that hemp is a planet saver,” announced Darren. It takes 16 weeks to grow hemp to its usable
“If anything’s going to be sustainable, it is something that has 42 uses.” state, whereas a tree, for example, will take 3540 years. According to Darren it is also a much cheaper commodity as in hemp there is nine times the volume in hemp than there is in a tonne of timber. But yet with all of these benefits, why are commercial developers so apprehensive to adopt hemp in their systems? “Their mindsets haven’t changed yet … there are a lot of advocates for us trying to make changes in the system, but we have got to change people’s mindsets,” urged Darren. A game-changing marketing campaign takes persistence and effort and the first iteration may not necessarily yield desired results, especially for something with such an ultimately marred reputation. “We need a good marketing campaign to get
over the negativity, and to get farmers involved to have enough production to then take it to the larger manufacturers and to people where hemp can replace other unsustainable materials,” agreed Victoria. “If anything’s going to be sustainable, it is something that has 42 uses,” enthused Dr David Wilson, MD at Master Research Australasia and a Graduate Union Member. “Darren is a builder interested in ecosustainability. Everything you see here is totally sustainable and eco-friendly: it takes carbon out of the atmosphere, stores it, locks it up, it saves trees … it’s magic,” continued David. With a material that is purportedly incredibly eco-friendly and sustainable, what are the future aims for this project? “What we’d like to do is put together the supply chain: we’ve got the farmers growing the stuff, factories manufacturing and processing it, and then it goes into uses and buildings, clothing etc. So it’s a regional changer, we can start with the farmers growing this stuff and putting it through there so we can use it to stimulate regional economies,” said David. For Victoria, the research conducted here is to help light a spark to facilitate engagement with commercial and industrial bodies. Momentum is slow, but it is progressive. For instance, this project was initiated by Charles Kovess, Marketing Director of Textile and Composite Industries (TCI) – the company that invented the machine that harvests the hemp tree. Needing assistance with such a project, David put it up as a research project in civil engineering. The
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At Graduate House
Stories around Graduate House students that are involved today are all making samples and testing its mechanical properties. While the current controversies and apprehensions surrounding hemp are stunting the growth of a seemingly worthwhile initiative and planet saver, we at Graduate House are glad to see that there are some out there looking at alternatives for the good of our environmental future!
UoM Commercial is a commercial engagement services company which delivers various programs including student services, educational programs and consulting activities. Happy 90th Birthday to Betty Clamp
UoM Commercial Looks Towards Clean-Air Models What do you see to be the future of the environment in Australia? A group of representatives from around the world discussed this very matter at a recent UoM Commercial function at Graduate House. Long time Member Betty Clamp, part of the Golden Oldies group, celebrated her 90th Birthday at Graduate House. Alongside her were Beryl Simpson, Nancye Smith and Muriel Johnson-Need. The Golden Oldies were featured in our 2003 Melbourne Graduate as a group of alumni from a Melbourne business college that have stayed friends since graduating in 1940. Their last visit to Graduate House was 11 years ago. Hand-painted greeting cards by Marg Nicoll August 17th - 18th saw representatives from numerous engineering organisations take part in a conference regarding carbon dioxide capture and storage in Australia. One of the delegates was Ling Feng from Electronics Co. in China who found the discussion at the conference helped build his knowledge on some of the differences in approaching clean-air. “We are learning smart manufacturing and about no carbon economics. I am very much enjoying the conference, and it is interesting to hear of the Australian experience relating to carbon dioxide. We can learn a lot from these differences,” said Mr Feng. Some of the delegates also invested in some Graduate House merchandise, commenting that the quality of the merchandise was very high.
It was Oscar Wilde who once said that ‘the artist is the creator of beautiful things.’ In the instance of Marg Nicoll’s hand-painted greeting cards, more fitting words could not have been spoken. Long time Member Marg Nicoll, wife of Life Member Mac Nicoll, spends time creating these cheery greetings cards which are prints of her paintings of which some are watercolours, some pen and wash, and others. “I have always loved art, and growing up,
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At Graduate House
Stories around Graduate House drawing was my hobby. When I was semiretired, a friend could see I needed to get back to doing art, and put me forward to join her as a member of The Victorian Artists’ Society, where my first teacher encouraged me to continue with painting inner-city streetscapes in Acrylic,” said Marg. Marg then spent a few years, learning the ropes. “Learning the techniques of watercolour followed, interspersed with painting and sketching en-plain-air mostly at The Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne and on holidays and day trips in Victoria, and interstate Australia.” The cards depict local streetscapes from Carlton to Fitzroy, as well as some abstract creations. “The Italian ones were done from our photos as reference material,” said Marg.
Thanks Rosie for everything. We were very happy with the arrangements made and appreciated the care and flexibilty of Bill and team, including help with the AV set up. Please thank Dr Bennett for her kindness in coming to welcome us. - Sheila Byard, President National Council of Women Victoria As I am unable to fault the quality of food or service, I cannot suggest any improvements. Keep up the good work, and thank you. - Ena Ahern The Egyptian milk rice dessert is amazing! - Joachim Inkmann and Zhen Shi
Where does Marg get her inspiration from? “The garden, gifts of flowers and in a very limited way, landscapes, have given me inspiration,” said Marg. “These days, with a serious illness, my painting gives me joy, just playing with colour itself, in contemporary works.”
Your feedback is important Submit a Dining Room Feedback Form to be in the monthly draw and in the running for the year-end prize of a $500 Coles Myers Gift Voucher The lucky feedback-giver for July was Roscoe Howell who won a bottle of Emeri De Bortoli Chardonnay Pinot Noir
Marg’s greeting cards are for sale in the merchandise case for $3.50. Thank you for your feedback Organising our function at Graduate House was very well thought out and clear. The function room suited to our needs and everything we asked for was there. The speakers were able to put to practice everything they planned and the acoustics was great. The quality of food was amazing. It was of a five star quality. Staff was very helpful the whole time, before and after the event. - Yasar Duyal Turkish Teachers’ Association Victoria (TTAV)
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Stay warm in these winter months with Graduate House garb. Whenever you are feeling the chills, we have a fine range of winter garments and accessories to help stave off the cold. All of our items are made with the finest materials, and are of the highest quality. Visit us to make your purchase.
Graduate House Winter Scarf $35.00
Graduate House Windcheater $50.00
Graduate House Knitted Vest
Graduate House Merino Pullover
$50.00
$110.00
220 Leicester Street, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia Telephone: +61 (0)3 9347 3428 Facsimile: +61 (0)3 9347 9981 www.graduatehouse.com.au admingh@graduatehouse.com.au www.graduatehouse.com.au | ABN: 55610 664 963 | Incorporated Association Registration No. A0023234B
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