Issuu

PERIODICAL NEWSLETTER OF THE GRADUATE UNION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE INCORPORATED P RINT P OST

APPROVED

A PRIL 2003

PP337834/00022

V OLUME 56, N O . 2

www.graduatehouse.com.au

R EG . A SS . N O . A0023234B

ELECTION ISSUE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Annual General Meeting of the Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated (“The Graduate Union”) will be held on Thursday, 29 May 2003 at 5.30pm, Lecture Theatre GM15 New Law Building, University Square, Parkville, Victoria Eugene Spanti, Secretary-Warden 11 April 2003

AGENDA 1. WELCOME, APOLOGIES AND RULES FOR CONDUCT OF THE MEETING 2. MINUTES To confirm the minutes of the 2002 Annual General Meeting held on 30 May 2002. 3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES 4. REPORT OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE GRADUATE COUNCIL FOR 2002 5. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR 2002 Consider and, if thought fit, adopt the accounts of The Graduate Union as printed in this issue of The Melbourne Graduate. 6. PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES To consider and, if thought fit, adopt proposed amendments as detailed in the Schedule (see insert). 7. ELECTION OF FIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS The Returning Officer will announce the result of the election and the President will declare the names of the elected Council Members. 8. RE-APPOINTMENT OF THE AUDITOR 9. PRESENTATION BY DEVELOPMENT ARCHITECT, MR MATHIESON 10. OTHER BUSINESS CLOSE

Contents

A REQUEST FROM THE PRESIDENT

Insert: Schedule of Proposed Amendments to the Rules – Explanatory Note

– AGM 2003

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AGENDA

A REQUEST FROM THE PRESIDENT

GRADUATE COUNCIL NEWS

the future role of our College. Rather than express the

Annual Report

views of Frank Lees in my address at the AGM,

Statement of Financial Performance

I desire to attempt a synthesis of the aspirations,

Statement of Financial Position

Notes to the Financial Statements

Statement by Council

In a draft for A short history of the Graduate Union,

Independent Audit Report

it was stated that ‘The character of The Graduate Union

Report from the Chairman of Graduate Council

Report from the Chairman of Graduate House Board

The purpose of this request is to seek your views on

expectations and concerns of members.

has been shaped by some interesting people’. You may

Graduate Council Election

wish to consider this in defining who we are. In the

Candidates’ Statements

same book ( Appendix 10, p. 95) University Statute

NEW MEMBERS

9.11 refers to us as a College - a term we do not

RESIDENTS’AND MEMBERS’ PAGE

PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT REPOR

DONATIONS

At the AGM, others will speak about ‘bricks and

VALETE

mortar’. I wish to explore the essence of our College

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS

LETTERS

CALENDAR OF GRADUATE HOUSE EVENTS

Your letters should be sent to the Graduate Union,

‘BACK PAGE’

for my attention.

150th Anniversary Celebrations

The Melbourne Graduate is normally published four times a year by The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated. It is edited by Barbara Funder, Margaret Robins and Lyn Weston under the direction of the Graduate Council and its Executive Committee. The Melbourne Graduate welcomes letters from readers and reserves the right to edit them for publication. Please keep word count to a maximum of 250 and address to The Editors, The Melbourne Graduate. Registered Address: The Graduate Union 224 Leicester Street, Carlton,Victoria 3053 Australia Telephone (03) 9347 3428 – Facsimile (03) 9347 9981 www.graduatehouse.com.au Email sec@graduatehouse.com.au Print Post Approved PP337834/00022 Register Association Number A0023234B Printed by Excelsior Printing Works 42-44 Terracotta Drive, Blackburn,Victoria 3130 Australia

generally use: (the College in a Terrace).

into the future. I do not seek, or expect, unity.

The Melbourne Graduate The Newsletter is the Union’s only formal organ of communication and promotion among all members, particularly individual members and reciprocating university bodies interstate and overseas. In Australia the editors try to ensure that copies are sent to all Vice-Chancellors as a courtesy and this should probably be extended to the heads of universities in Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. During our three years of editorial tenure we have tried to broaden and deepen the Newsletter’s range and have been pleased to hear that we are meeting a need, especially in relation to issues raised more generally in the universities.We hope that the necessary funding from Council will allow this concept to continue. The Editors

Copy for August edition closes

8 July 2003 Please submit copy in double spacing with generous margins. The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

ANNUAL REPORT Your Council presents its report on the Association for the financial year ended 31 December 2002. The names of Graduate Council members are listed below:

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2002

President Mr F A Lees (from 25 July 2000)

Vice-President Dr R Gibson

2002

2001

INCOME

Chairman Subscriptions

Dr D T Bellair

49,221

57,027

Vice-Chairman

Accommodation

411,730

359,158

Mr M C McKenzie

Property rentals

131,657

210,939

Ex-officio and nominees of Vice-Chancellor

Catering

233,527

200,073

Position vacant Position vacant

Donations

7,437

83,965

114,775

10,421

Interest received

Twelve elected members

Other income

Until May 2005

28,760 ___________

Dr J C Binns (from May 2002) Dr R W Gibson (from May 2002) Ms M Panichi (from May 2002) Ms M R Robins (from May 2002)

977,107 ___________

8,117 ___________

929,700 ___________

EXPENDITURE

Until May 2004 Dr D T Bellair (from May 2001) Dr D A McCredie (from May 2001) Professor T Sabine (resigned May 2002) Mr N J Taylor (from May 2001)

Employment costs

379,354

330,916

Catering supplies

116,991

116,577

Utilities

68,830

77,076

Until May 2003

Communication costs

41,986

59,109

Mr A G Cleghorn (from May 2000) Miss B A Funder (from May 2000) Mr M C McKenzie (from May 2000) Ms E A Shellard (from May 2000)

Rates & government taxes

7,671

9,588

Professional fees

40,220

31,240

Legal expenses

2,273

3,233

19,115

17,026

9,081

17,512

91,020

55,090

Appointed to Casual Vacancy

Insurances

Mr John Gill (appointed May 2002) Interest & bank charges

Co-opted Member Mr Gordon Duxbury (co-opted October 2002)

Building & equipment repairs & minor purchases

The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated is a postgraduate college affiliated with the University of Melbourne. It has two aspects: a residential membership mainly of postgraduate students and a large non-residential membership of graduates as annual subscribers or life members. There has been no significant change in the nature of the activities of the Association during the financial year. Dr David Bellair Chairman of Graduate Council 11 April 2003

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

Depreciation

16,556 ___________

793,097 ___________

NET SURPLUS

184,010 ___________

50,382 ___________

767,749 ___________

161,951 ___________

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2002 2002 $

2001 $

CURRENT ASSETS Cash (See Note 4(a)) Receivables Stock (See Note 4(b)) Prepayments

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

5,212,599 41,017 17,801 102,718

___________

5,374,135

___________

217,398 72,845 Nil 23,557

___________

313,800

___________

NON-CURRENT ASSETS Property, plant & equipment (See Note 5)

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS

6,846,101

___________

11,731,072

___________

6,846,101

11,731,072

___________

12,220,236

___________

12,044,872

___________

CURRENT LIABILITIES Creditors and borrowings (See Note 6) Provisions (See Note 7)

101,944 32,137

___________

134,081

___________

114,913 32,981

___________

137,894

___________

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 22,263

___________

27,096

___________

TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 22,263

___________

TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS

156,344

___________

12,063,892

27,096

___________

164,990

___________

11,879,882

___________

11,829.447 234,445 12,063,892

11,796,716 83,166 11,879,882

MEMBERS’ EQUITY Reserves (See Note 8) Retained Funds (See Note 11)

TOTAL MEMBERS’ FUNDS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1 (a) STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES These financial statements are a special purpose financial report prepared for use by members of the Association. The Council has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity. The statements are prepared in accordance with the requirement of the following applicable Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements: AAS 5: Materiality AAS 8: Events Occurring after Reporting Date No other applicable Accounting Standards or mandatory professional reporting requirements have been applied. The statements are also prepared on an accruals basis. They are based on historic costs and do not take into account changing money values or, except where specifically stated, current valuations of noncurrent assets. The following material accounting policies, which are consistent with the previous period unless otherwise stated, have been adopted in the preparation of this financial report.

1 (b) DEPRECIATION OF FIXED ASSETS

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

Creditors and borrowings (See Note 6)

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements

Depreciation is calculated on the straight line basis for plant and equipment and diminishing balance for motor vehicles.

1 (c) VALUATION OF PROPERTY (LAND & BUILDINGS) Graduate Council received advice from professionals in real estate prior to deciding to adopt valuations in the 2001 accounts for land and buildings now that the completion of development work on University Square has stabilised the area. With respect to the Kidds Warehouse at 216-220 Leicester Street and the Bouverie Street property, the certainty of the contract now executed with the University of Melbourne supports the decision of Graduate Council to revalue these properties to the contract price in respect to the 2001 accounts.

1 (d) OPERATING REVENUE Details of operating revenue are fully set out above. Consistent with the previous year, life subscriptions & donations have been brought to account on a cash-received basis. This policy is considered appropriate by the Council.

1 (e) INCOME TAX

___________

The Association’s income is exempt from income tax by virtue of Section 23(e) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (as amended).

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

2002 $

2001 $

2. AUDITOR’S REMUNERATION For audit of accounts 4,350 For other services Nil (no other benefits were received by the auditor)

4,000 Nil

3. COUNCIL MEMBERS’ EMOLUMENTS The Council members of the Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Inc have not received and do not receive any remuneration for their services.

(d) Motor Vehicles Motor vehicle at cost Provision for depreciation

2002 $

2001 $

307,424 (258,281) ___________

303,087 (247,834) ___________

49,143 ___________

55,253 ___________

28,490 (8,480) ___________

28,490 (2,671) ___________

20,010 ___________

25,819 ___________

4. (a) CASH Term Deposits Unbanked Deposits Melbourne University Cash Float Cash at Bank

5,191,266 5,571 1,000 14,762 ___________

51,753 1,983 1,000 162,662 ___________

5,212,599 ___________

217,398 ___________

16,851 950 ___________

Nil Nil ___________

17,801 ___________

Nil ___________

4. (b) STOCK – AT COST The Short History books Wine and Jackets

(e) Consulting Fees re Redevelopment The Graduate Union has incurred the following preliminary costs of re-development including consulting fees, legal fees, architects and engineers fees which will not be reimbursed and have been capitalized in the accounts. 114,948 Nil ___________ ___________ (f) Structure Contributions Contribution to cost of foundation supports as part of contract with University of Melbourne 162,000 Nil ___________ ___________ Total Written Down Value (Items (a) to (f))

5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (a) Owner-Occupied Properties Nos 210-214 Leicester Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at Council’s valuation November 2001 1,950,000 ___________

1,950,000 ___________

Nos 222-228 Leicester Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at Council’s valuation November 2001 2,600,000 ___________

2,600,000 ___________

Current Creditors Net Accruals Hire Purchase Liability GST Payable Residents’ Bonds

32,670 46,559 4,832 747 17,136 ___________

56,097 34,383 4,020 13,905 6,508 ___________

101,944 ___________

114,913 ___________

1,040 21,223 ___________

1,040 26,056 ___________

22,263 ___________

27.096 ___________

32,137 ___________

22,981 ___________

(a) Building and Administrative Reserve

423,010 ___________

(b) Graduate House Extension Reserve Balance at 1 January Interest Credited Donations

613,059 25,180 6,491 ___________

588,846 23,798 415 ___________

644,730 ___________

613,059 ___________

Non-Current Members’ Deposits Hire Purchase Liability

1,950,000 ___________

Provision for depreciation

Nil ___________

7. PROVISIONS

1,950,000 ___________

Employee Entitlements

6,500,000 ___________

(b) Rental Properties Nos 216-220 Leicester Street, Carlton and No 233 Bouverie Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at contract price Nil ___________

5,150,000 ___________

Nil ___________

5,150,000 ___________

Nil Nil ___________

Nil 5,150,000 ___________

6,500 000 ___________

11,650,000 ___________

(a) + (b)

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

11,731,072 ___________

6. CREDITORS AND BORROWINGS

Nos 230-234 Leicester Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at Council’s valuation November 2001 1,950,000 ___________

Provision for depreciation on rented properties

6,846,101 ___________

8. RESERVES

Balance 31 December

2002 $

2001 $

10,744,580 Nil ___________

2,236,291 8,508,289 ___________

Balance 31 December

10,744,580 ___________

(d) Residentsâ€™ Assistance Reserve Donations

16,067 1,060 ___________

15,927 140 ___________

17,127 ___________

16,067 ___________

11,829,447 ___________

11,796,716 ___________

9. STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS

2001 $

(b) Reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to operating surplus after abnormal items Operating surplus after abnormal items Depreciation of non current assets

184,010

161,951

16,556

50,382

Changes in net assets and liabilities Increase/(Decrease) in provision for employee entitlements Decrease(Increase) in receivables, prepayments and inventory Increase/(Decrease) in other creditors & borrowings Decrease/(Increase) in non-current assets Net Increase Cash Held

9,156

5,363

(65,134)

207,107

(17,802)

(273,753)

(a) Cashflows from operating activities Membersâ€™ subscriptions 52,218 Accommodation & meals 620,771 Donations & other income 32,798 ___________

65,392 554,225 97,830 ___________

Payments to suppliers & employees

(739,432) ___________

(722,727) ___________

10.

Net cash used in Operating activities

(33,645) ___________

(5,280) ___________

The Association has no share capital. The Association was incorporated under the provisions of the Associations Incorporation Act on 12 June 1991.

Cashflows from investing activities Property rentals 150,962 Proceeds on sale of Property 5,150,000 Funds expended on structure contributions (162,000) Funds expended on re-development (125,611) Funds expended on asset purchases (4,638) Interest on property investment accounts 28,271 Payments relating to property investments (8,138) ___________

(7,342) ___________

Net cash provided by investing activities

359,982 ___________

5,028,846 ___________

Cashflows from financing activities Repayment of borrowings Nil Net funds provided by financing activities Nil ___________ Net increase in cash held Cash at the beginning of the financial year Cash at the end of the financial year

2002 $

210,939 Nil Nil (239,674) (85,465) 2,176

(309,142) (309,142) ___________

4,995,201

45,560

217,398

171,838

5,212,599 ___________

217,398 ___________

11.

4,868,415 4,995,201 ___________

(105,490) 45,560 ___________

SHARE CAPITAL

RETAINED FUNDS

Retained funds at 1 January Add Net Surplus for year Less Interest to Graduate House Extension Reserve Less Donations transferred to other Reserves

(7,551) ___________

(555) ___________

Retained Funds at 31 December

234,445 ___________

83,166 ___________

83,166 184,010

(54,432) 161,951

(25,180)

(23,798)

12. The Graduate House Extension Reserve includes an amount of $86,094 constituting donations made in 1993 to 1995 to the Graduate Union Building Appeal and an amount refunded by the University of Melbourne in 1995 for general building or maintenance purposes. An appeal was made in 1980 for funds to redevelop a building (which was subsequently demolished) to provide additional low-cost student accommodation. Present Council is of the view that Council will seek appropriate legal advice and court approval before applying the funds from the appeal in 1980/81 and accumulated interest, towards any re-development project incorporating the provision of residential accommodation for Graduates. 13. Subject to clarification by the Supreme Court of Victoria of the matters referred to in Note 12, The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Inc was not a trustee of any trust as at 31 December 2002.

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

STATEMENT BY COUNCIL The Council of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated is of the opinion that: (a)

the accompanying profit and loss statement is drawn up so as to give a fair and true view of the operations of the Association for the year ended 31 December 2002;

(b)

the accompanying balance sheet is drawn up so as to give a fair and true view of the state of affairs of the Association for the year ended 31 December 2002 and;

(c)

there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Association will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

By resolution of the Council.

D.T. Bellair E.A. Spanti

Chairman Secretary-Warden

Carlton 11 April 2003

The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated

INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT TO MEMBERS Scope I have audited the financial report, being a special purpose financial report, of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated for the year ended 31 December 2002 as set out in the Annual Report on pages 3 to 7. The Council is responsible for the financial report and has determined that the accounting policies used and described in Note 1 to the financial statements which form part of the financial report are appropriate to meet the requirements of the Associations Incorporation Act (Victoria) and the needs of the members. I have conducted an independent audit of the financial report in order to express an opinion on it to the members. No opinion is expressed as to whether the accounting policies used are appropriate to the needs of the members. The financial report has been prepared for distribution to members and for the purpose of fulfilling the financial reporting requirements under the Rules of The Graduate Union and the requirements of the Associations Incorporation Act (Victoria). I disclaim any assumption of responsibility for any reliance on this audit report or on the financial report to which it relates to any person other than the members, or for any purpose other than that for which it was prepared. My audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. My procedures included examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures in the financial report and the evaluation of significant accounting estimates. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion whether, in all material respects, the financial report is presented fairly in accordance with the accounting policies described in Note 1 so as to present a view which is consistent with my understanding of The Graduate Unionâ€™s financial position and performance as represented by the results of its operations and its cash flows. These policies do not require the application of all Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in Australia. The audit opinion expressed in this report has been formed on the above basis. Audit Opinion In my opinion, the financial report presents fairly in accordance with the accounting policies described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the financial position of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated as at 31 December 2002 and the results of its operations and its cash flows or the year then ended. A.L. Law FCA Registered Company Auditor Carlton, 11 April 2003

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

REPORT OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE GRADUATE COUNCIL 2001 Looking back over 2002 I realise that the settlement with the University and the obtaining of the building permit for our new building while difficult, were easy compared with the detailed planning and execution now required. As Chairman of Council I am most appreciative that all Councillors have joined in our deliberations, decided what is best for the Graduate Union and taken ownership of our decisions. All the committees of Council and their chairpersons have worked very effectively and I especially thank John Gill and the Development Committee, Elizabeth Shellard and the House Board, Robert Gibson and the Accounting and Audit Committee, and Barbara Funder and Geoffrey Dye for maintaining the excellent standard of The Melbourne Graduate. However, the people who really keep Graduate House going so smoothly are our Secretary-Warden, Eugene Spanti and his staff, who have done a magnificent job resolving the myriad issues which arise every day, and looking after our residents and members so well. I know how difficult Eugene’s job is at times, and I have the utmost admiration for his professionalism and tact in tackling and settling the hard issues. He is also fostering strong links with the other University colleges and with the University itself. Above all I thank you, our members, for your enthusiasm and enjoyment of our many activities, for your support as volunteers, and our residents for their collegiality and for providing a principal reason for the continuation of the Graduate Union as an affiliated college of the University. I look forward to the commencement of work on our new building, with its greatly improved facilities while at the same time we restore the exterior of the terraces and refurbish their accommodation, so that we have both old and new befitting our magnificent position on University Square. David Bellair

REPORT OF THE GRADUATE HOUSE BOARD Another challenging year has been successfully completed. The occupancy rates have continued to rise: 2000 – 75.6%; 2001 – 88.6%; 2002 – 95.1%. Kidd’s Warehouse has been demolished and the University of Melbourne has almost completed the entrance to the underground car park below University Square. Extensive plans are currently being finalized for a new four-storey building. These plans are soon to be on display for members and residents. Numerous refurbishment projects have been undertaken during the year, which include: •

Conversion of the former television room into two student rooms

•

Moving of the television into the Games Room and replacement of the billiard table with a soccer game table

•

Refurbishment of the ten terrace front exteriors is almost complete

•

Quotations are currently being sought for the repair and redecoration of the Stella Langford corridors, kitchens, bathrooms and stairwells

• Considerable alterations to security have occurred at Graduate House, including: 1. Installation of a security camera and intercom at the front entrance 2. Front doors, other than the main entrance door, converted to exit only doors 3. Changing of all external locks and keys 4. Installation of window stops to minimize opening height on windows 5. Addition of trellis to raise the height of all rear fencing During the year, resignations were received from Paul Reidy, the Graduate House Chef, and Andrea Rulli, the Administrative Assistant. John Gasparotto, with eleven years’experience in the catering industry, has been displaying his talents to the culinary delight of both residents and members alike. Lauren McKerley has adapted quickly to her new environment and her warmth and enthusiasm are much appreciated. In summary, we continue to be blessed with a loyal and efficient staff, whose work in running The House and maintaining and raising standards has been invaluable. In particular, Eugene Spanti is to be commended for his highly effective managerial skills and considerable assistance with regard to the planning of our new building. Finally, we look forward to another exciting year of planning, progress and development and, if you have still not viewed the changes, we warmly invite you to do so. Elizabeth Shellard Chairman of the House Board

NEW MEMBERS The following new members joined the Graduate Union in the period February to April 2003. We welcome them and look forward to their participation in our members’ programs. Annual Members Victor LUCI, BCom(Deakin) Suhayla MUBARAK, BA(India) Raymond NAPIER, FellowASCPA David NOBLE, BTheol Sam PATON, BAgEcon(UNE) Lina RICCIARDELLI, BAHons(Adel) Anthony ROMANO, BBus Kerry SUTTER, BA(Monash) Carolyn SWEENEY, BEd(Catholic University) Jean-Christophe VERSTRACK, Liamtiak(Leuvan) The following Annual Members have both supported The Graduate Union over a very long period and were admitted as Life Members by Graduate Council at the February Council Meeting. Life Members Professor H R Clive PRATT, BScHons, PhD (London), joined 1981 Dr Diane STENHOUSE, BDSc, LDS, joined 1964 All degrees are from University of Melbourne unless otherwise noted. Degrees are stated as presented on members’application forms.

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

RESIDENTS’ & MEMBERS’ PAGE LAUREN McKERLEY Lauren, the new member of staff at Graduate House, comes to us with impressive public relations and hospitality experience, having been employed in international five-star and boutique hotels in the City of Melbourne. Her family operated restaurants and country motels throughout her early years and she grew up in a customer service orientated environment.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS AT ‘THE HOUSE’ On Sunday, 17 February Graduate House hosted a birthday party on the occasion of Anne Campbell’s 70th birthday. Anne with husband Peter and son Bruce greeted 27 old friends and new for what was a delightful and entertaining afternoon. The dining room was a riot of coloured balloons and, after pre-dinner champagne, the guests were served a superb meal prepared by the Graduate House Chef, Johnny Gasparotto.

In 2000, Lauren made a decision to move out of hospitality in order to update her administrative and computer skills and, to this end, accepted a position as Director of First Impressions with a well-known logistics company. She has recently finished building her own house in which she lives with Lachlan, her eight-year-old son. She enjoys dining out with friends and loves fast cars, especially Jaguars, her ambition being to own one before she is 40. On a quieter note, for relaxation she escapes to a quiet part of the house to read.

TIM BECKETT This year is the second in which I have been enrolled in the PhD program with the Department of Economics at the University of Melbourne and the first devoted entirely to the writing of a thesis. Though this fact often prompts startled reactions from others (not least amongst the administrative staff at the School of Graduate Studies), it is common the world over for a PhD program in Economics to involve at least a year of coursework prior to the fully-fledged commencement of research. I took my Bachelor and Honours degrees in Economics (including a Major in Political Science) at the University of Tasmania, making me one of only three or four Australians to reside at Graduate House (subject to seasonal variation). This means that, besides meeting people from exotic locales with far more interesting biographies than mine, I escape many of the jokes with which mainland Australians like to target Tasmanians. The three best things about Melbourne are its coffee, trams and the possums that sometimes come in through the bathroom window.

LOCHANA RAMALINGAM Lochana completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in Singapore. She came to Graduate House in August 1998 for interviews, after applying to the University of Melbourne to complete her Masters in Dental Science in Pediatric Dentistry. She enjoyed her stay so much that, when she returned to Melbourne after being accepted, she decided to stay at Graduate House for the duration of her course. She completed her Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry and Masters and in 2001, went on to a Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. She worked at the Royal Children’s Hospital as a Senior Registrar in Pediatric Dentistry for a year before returning to Graduate House in February 2003. She is now studying for the preliminary examination held by the Australian Dental Council for assessment of her qualifications for overseas trained dentists.

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

SIEH NG – THE RESIDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE Sieh Ng, the Residents’ Representative of Graduate House, was born in Malaysia and graduated from the University of Melbourne in Microbiology. She is currently engaged in postgraduate research at CSIRO, food science and technology department. Her major interest is in looking at ways of using new innovative, state-of-the-art technology such as the high pressure processing, ultrasonics and pulsed electric field processing in eliminating the pathogens and food spoilage micro-organisms in food. This research aims to enable the food industry in Australia to extend the shelf life of food, thereby bringing an economical return for food manufacturers and consumers. Sieh’s passion for food safety matters elicits many queries from residents about how to store their food, or how long can a particular food be kept in the fridge and still be safe to consume. Sieh enjoys the role of Residents’ Representative. She has a friendly, down to earth and bubbly personality and her laughter is very infectious. She always has time for others and this, with her sense of humour and fun-loving nature wins her lots of friends. Sieh says that to make one’s stay at Graduate House an enjoyable experience, one needs to show consideration, friendliness, kindness and a readiness to lend a helping hand. She believes through sharing our lives together, one’s life is greatly enriched. She also believes that residents should be more aware of the dedication of the Graduate House management, staff and the Board of Graduate House, whose aim is to ensure that staying at Graduate House is an enriching experience Sieh really enjoys keeping herself fit. She swims three or four times a week and also enjoys dancing, nightclubbing and dining out. The trendy cafés at Southgate and Chapel Street are some of her favourite places. Occasionally, she shows her culinary skills and prepares the hot and spicy food of her homeland for friends at weekends.

GRADUATE UNION COUNCIL ELECTION

*CLEGHORN, Andre Gregory, BSc(Hons), MSc(Melb)

General Information

Current councillor since 1999, member of the Executive & Development committees, chairman of the Membership Committee. Past committee member of Grad Links/Mono Graduates and Solo Graduates. Medical Microbiologist and now operating a plant biotechnology business.

As a result of the call for nominations published in the February issue of The Melbourne Graduate seven nominations have been received for the five positions to be filled. A poll will therefore be held, with voting closing in the registered office of The Graduate Union at 224 Leicester Street, CARLTON, at 4pm on Thursday, 15 May 2003. A voting paper, a small envelope marked ‘Voting Paper’ and an outer envelope, in which the small envelope containing the voting paper is to be placed, are all enclosed with this newsletter to all members. If you have not received them, please contact the Graduate Union office immediately. Should you have any privacy concerns, you may, having completed the declaration on the envelope addressed to the Returning Officer, enclose that envelope within a larger plain envelope and address it in the manner identical to that shown on the envelope addressed to the Returning Officer, before posting or delivering to the Returning Officer, as directed on the voting paper.

Personal Information and Policy Statements Submitted by Candidates Candidates are listed here, and on the voting paper, in the order in which names were determined by lot in the presence of witnesses. The statements, which follow, have been standardised only by listing the surname first, followed by other names, and the listing of degrees and diplomas and the inclusion of the names of the proposer and seconder of the candidate. A complete listing of Council membership during any part of 2002 is set out in the introduction to the Annual Report, commencing on page x. The first four members elected in this poll will have terms expiring in May 2006 and the fifth member elected will have a term expiring in May 2005. Ronald G Ritchie Returning Officer

CANDIDATES’ STATEMENTS DUXBURY, Gordon William, LLB Proposer – Barbara Ann Funder Seconder – Frank Alfred Moorman Lees LL.B, retired lawyer, former Senior Partner, Darvall McCutcheon and Governor of the Van Diemens Land Company (a Royal Charter Company listed on the London Stock Exchange), Chairman of other companies with international affiliations in Australia and overseas. Past National President of Royal Guide Dogs for the Blind Association of Australia and Past President of Prince Henry’s Hospital. Past President University Club. Currently Chairman of Swanston Engineering Group.

Proposer – Helen Michael Seconder – Karin B Goodman

Planning of the new building is concluding and now it is time to concentrate on revitalising the membership. The membership committee has been waiting for the next stage so that we can concentrate on rebuilding the membership and provide more benefits to all members. BINNS, John Andrew, BA Proposer – Ralph Slade de la Lande Seconder – George Freed Having attended numerous functions over the last 5 years, and having been involved in international business for 20 years, I see many ways in which I could make a positive contribution to the Graduate Union. Issues such as the continuation of sound fiscal management, fostering good relationships with other local and international academic institutions, providing support to the Warden and residents, as for example by improvement of security within the building, would be of prime importance. NOBLE, David Andrew, BTheol(MCD) Proposer – Neil James Taylor Seconder – John Court Binns David Noble has recently resigned as Business & Development Manager of Whitley College. An accredited Baptist Minister and a graduate of the Melbourne College of Divinity, he now operates a pastoral care organization specifically geared towards the needs of international students. David brings a combination of business expertise and pastoral orientation to the Graduate Union. His past board experience includes the Council and Executive of Whitley College and the Board of Plenty Valley Christian School. **GILL, John, BCOMM, FCPA Proposer – Malcolm Mansfield Brumby Seconder – John Niel Black I have been a life member for over 40 years. I became a councillor in 2000 when appalled by the conduct of two special general meetings I decided to stand for election in the hope that with my interest in governance from my experience as secretary of a major pastoral cooperative I might make a useful contribution. I am on the audit committee and been chairman of the development committee overseeing the new building for the past two years.

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

ROOM, Darren Hamilton, BA(Tas), DipSocStuds(Melb) Proposer – Ralph Slade de la Lande Seconder – Thomas Ronald Albert Davey After retiring with 33 years of State and Commonwealth public service, I am a volunteer with several Railway Associations, The Melbourne Bicycle Touring Club and Bicycle Victoria. The Graduate Union attracted me as a meeting place for graduates and students from all academic backgrounds. Graduate House enhanced this, not only as a residence, but as a venue for graduates to develop their professional and social contacts. I believe these features of the Graduate Union must be developed to the full. SHELLARD, Elizabeth Anne, BSW Proposer – John Court Binns Seconder – John Gill I joined the Graduate Union in 1995 and have been a Council member for the past three years. I have also been a member of Gradlinks, Membership, Houseboard and Development Committees. I have a background in social work, research, interior design and currently hold a building licence. I seek to: continue assisting in the design of our new building continue in my role as Chairman of Houseboard Increase membership through marketing initiatives and the enhancement/development of members’ facilities *Retiring Councillors eligible for re-election **Co-opted to casual vacancy 2002

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS 2003 The Graduate Union congratulates the following members who were recognised in this year’s Australia Day Honours.

AM: Member of the Order of Australia Mr Charles Hugh Francis, RFD, QC – Life Member, joined 1949 Dr William Edwin Hillis Emeritus Professor Charles Angas Hurst

PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT REPORT The construction of the tunnel from Bouverie Street to the University Square underground car park seems to be progressing towards a scheduled completion in April. Meanwhile, a Design Sub Committee of the Development Committee comprising John Binns, Ralph de la Lande, Hugh O’Neill, Elizabeth Shellard, Eugene Spanti and myself has been meeting on a weekly basis since mid-December with our architects, Perrott Lyon Mathieson to design the interior of the new building. It is a very time consuming process, which we expect to complete by Easter. The design is coming along nicely and I am confident it will provide comfortable, affordable accommodation for our student residents, members, visiting academics and members of organizations with reciprocal rights. A lot of thought has gone into the design of the public rooms to ensure the facilities provide for members’ functions with the minimum inconvenience to residents. We expect to be able to present the plans to members at the AGM in May. John Gill Chairman, Development Committee

DONATIONS Building Fund $300 $250 $200 $100 $115 $50 $35 $25 $20 $15

R de la Lande E Miller J Mason A Bainbridge E Brown W Denholm, J Galbraith, X Licen, H Collins L Course S Stuart, B Lewis, B Stevenson A England, A Salter, B O’Keeffe B McCrae, H Collins

Residents’ Assistance Fund $250 $50 $25 $20

E Miller R Jackson P Mooney, B Lewis, B Stevenson, H Miller A Salter

VALETE

– Life Member, joined 1951

We were saddened to learn of the death of Margaret McMahon, one of our loyal, hardworking mail-out volunteers. Margaret joined the Graduate Union in 1992 and was a familiar face at Graduate House.

– Annual Member, joined 1966

Since publication of the November Graduate we have also been notified of the deaths of the following members:

Mr Stuart Richard McDonald – Life Member, joined 1954

OAM: Medal of the Order of Australia Professor David Biles

– Life Member, joined 1964

Mrs Margery Lilian Kennett

– Life Member, joined 1979

Dr John William Upjohn

– Life Member, joined 1962

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003

Mr Reginald Berkley, Life Member, joined 1966 Mr William C Hunt, Life Member, joined 1955 Dr Austin G Ley, Life Member, joined 1974 The Graduate Union appreciates the support of these members throughout their lives and extends condolences to their families We regret that space constraints do not allow individual acknowledgement of each deceased member.

150th Anniversary of the University of Melbourne Community Open Weekend 10 & 11 May 2003 Events have been planned by the University for the weekend of 10 and 11 May 2003 to mark its 150th Anniversary. On Saturday 10 May Graduate House will be open for inspection from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., with Devonshire Tea being provided as refreshment for visitors during that time. On Saturday 10 May there will also be Concerts at Queen’s, Ormond and Trinity

College Chapels (presented by Melbourne Autumn Music Festival Inc.), College tours, a 150th exhibition in the Baillieu Library, historic book displays in the Law Library, Bands in the North Court, Melbourne Business School Open Day, garden and architectural tours. Shops in the Union Building will be open. Sunday 11 May will feature entertainment on

the Union Lawn (a free variety concert, including ‘Big Noise’ Band, soloists from the Faculty of Music, the Engineering Orchestra and the Melbourne University Choral Society). Tours will include those listed for Saturday. In the evening there will be services at Ormond, Trinity and Newman Chapels. Union Building shops will again be open.

Joint Royal Society of Arts / Graduate Union Function Monday 12 May 2003 Members of the Graduate Union are cordially invited to join members of the Royal Society of Arts (Chapter in Victoria) in an afternoon program at the University of Melbourne on Monday 12 May 2003. Details of the afternoon are:

2.15 p.m.

Afternoon Tea at University House, on individual payment basis.

3.00 p.m.

Guided Tour of Grainger Museum.

12.45 p.m. Meet at Melba Hall, Faculty of Music, for free lunch hour Concert, featuring Vivien Hamilton (soprano) with Bruce Steele (piano) performing works by H H Richardson, Margaret Sutherland, Percy Grainger, Ralph Vaughan-Williams, Roger Quilter and F S Kelly.

Cost:

$10 per member. Please make cheques or money orders payable to ‘Graduate Union’ with your name printed on the reverse and post to ‘RSA/GU Function’, Graduate House, 224 Leicester Street, Carlton 3053 by THURSDAY 8 MAY 2003.

LETTERS

CALENDAR OF GRADUATE HOUSE EVENTS

To the Secretary-Warden from Anne Campbell, Life Member I had the most wonderful birthday celebration today with my friends at Graduate House. They were all delighted with the ambience of the place and the friendliness of the staff. John did a great job with the food – plentiful, beautifully created servings. Thank everyone for me, it was a superb occasion and thank you for the beautiful flowers, I really enjoyed that touch. I also enjoyed meeting one of the House inmates who sent his greetings. I wish you lots of success in the future. Don’t forget to thank Lyn for her organization.

Speakers at forthcoming Luncheons and Dinner May 7

May 29 Autumn Dinner Ms Sieh Ng, Residents’ Representative, Graduate House June 4

Dr Benjamin Bodna, Academic and ‘Walker’ Pilgrimages and other Adventures

July 2

Professor Alan Gilbert, Vice Chancellor, University of Melbourne 150 Years of The University of Melbourne

July18

Winter Dinner – Christmas in July Max Fairchild, Actor and Comedian

Aug 6

Dr Julian Gitzen, PhD (University of Wisconsin) Teaching English Literature to Japanese University Students

February 2003

Extract of letter to the Secretary-Warden from Darren Room, Life Member I was saddened to read of the most untimely death of Robert (Bob) Dwyer who often ate with me at the Monthly Luncheons. (His brother, Peter, is a Verger at St Paul’s Cathedral). Robert, a brilliant mathematics teacher at Melbourne High was a pleasant, friendly and genuine person. He played golf and rode a bicycle. I do not know what caused his death. He came as a guest and I do not know if he was a member of the Graduate Union, but I presumed that he was so. Nevertheless, he was a person who frequently attended meals at Graduate House. March 2003

Mr Don Charlwood, Author Wrecks & Reputations

Regular Events 1st Monday each month – Italian Conversation 6.30 for 7pm

Dinner

2nd Friday each month

– Gradlinks’ Dinner 7pm for 8pm

4th Friday each month

– Solos’ Dinner 7pm for 8pm

Last Monday each month – Women’s Forum 10am

The Melbourne Graduate,April 2003