THE
MELBOURNE
The Graduate Union of The University of Melbourne Inc.
GR ADUATE
Periodical newsletter of the graduate union of the university of melbourne incorporated Print Post approved pp337834/00022 registered association no. AA0023234B April 2010 Volume 63 No. 2 www.graduatehouse.com.au
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Ninety-Eighth Annual General Meeting of the Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated (“The Graduate Union”) will be held on Thursday, 27 May 2010 at 5.30 pm at Graduate House, 220 Leicester Street, Carlton
Contents CALENDAR OF GRADUATE HOUSE EVENTS
2
LETTERS
2
VALETE
2
NEW MEMBERS
2
DONATIONS
2
AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS 2 GRADUATE COUNCIL NEWS
Annual Report Income Statement Balance Sheet Notes to the Financial Statements Statement by Council Independent Audit Report Graduate Council Election Candidates’ Statements
3 5 5 6 7 8 9 9
EVENTS
10
SPEAKERS
10
RESIDENTS AND STAFF
11
FROM THE HEAD OF COLLEGE
12
Office Bearers President: The Honourable John Cain Vice President: Dr Robert Gibson Chairman: Mr J Andrew Binns Vice Chairman: Mr David N Sparks Head of College and CEO Mr Eugene Spanti
ELECTION ISSUE
Eugene Spanti, Head of College and CEO April 2010
AGENDA 1. WELCOME, APOLOGIES AND RULES FOR CONDUCT OF THE MEETING 2. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES To confirm the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 28 May 2009 3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES 4. REPORT FOR 2009 BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE GRADUATE COUNCIL 5. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR 2009 Adopt the accounts of The Graduate Union as printed in the April 2010 edition of The Melbourne Graduate. 6. ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS The Returning Officer will announce the result of the election and the President will declare the names of the elected Council Members. 7. RE-APPOINTMENT OF THE AUDITOR 8. OTHER BUSINESS (Discussion and Question Time) 9. CLOSE
April 2010 Volume 63 No.2 – 1
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE CALENDAR of EVENTS 2010 Bridge is held every Wednesday evening at 7.45pm Italian Conversation Group meets first Tuesday each month at 6pm (except Cup Week) Members’ Drinks Night - second Friday each month 5pm – 8pm Women’s Forum meets on the third Wednesday each month at 10am (topics advised in monthly newsletter) Residents and Members meet together on the last Tuesday each month at 5.30pm 22 Apr. Wine Dinner 5 May Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Rev. Tim Costello 27 May AGM & Autumn Dinner Speaker: Mr Race Mathews 2 June Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Mr Oliver Streeton 7 July Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Associate Professor Jenny Strauss 27 July Residents Xmas in July/ Meet & Greet 4 Aug. Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Prof. John Armstrong 26 Aug. Twilight Lecture Speaker: Mr Alan Kohler 1 Sep. Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Major General David McLachlan, RSL 6 Oct. Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Dr David Smith 14 Oct. Spring Wine Dinner 10 Nov. Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Prof. Ian Polmear 1 Dec. Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Dr David McCredie 10 Dec. Chairman’s Cocktail Party 17 Dec. Members Christmas Party The Melbourne Graduate is normally published four times a year by The Graduate Union of The University of Melbourne Incorporated. It is edited by Eugene Spanti 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, 220 Leicester St., Carlton, Vic. 3053 Australia. Telephone: (03) 9347-3428 Facsimile (03) 9347-9981 www.graduatehouse.com.au – email: sec@graduatehouse.com.au Printed by: FSG Design & Print, 1 Argent Place, Ringwood, Vic 3134. Tel: (03) 9873 5144
2 – April 2010 Volume 63 No.2
LETTERS From Professor Peter Leach (Life Member since 1964) I would advise against making the newsletter an attachment. With all of the stuff which comes these days it becomes something of a problem to manage space. Since I do not normally communicate with HQ, let me give you a little update on my activities. Presently I am taking a two-month break from an academic year in Cyprus doing stuff related to Financial Mathematics to enjoy the pleasures of Winter in the Far North, specifically Lulea towards the top end of Sweden. Here the work is on nonlinear ordinary differential equations. At the end of the month I return to Cyprus for four months and then go to my house in Greece on the island of Samos for a month to entertain my Finnish nephews before going to South Africa for a family wedding. Just to let you know that I am still alive and appreciating February 2010 receiving reminders of a former home. From Justice Bernard D Bongiorno AO ( Member1995) Thank you for your and the Union’s kind congratulations on my receiving the AO. It is very gratifying to receive good wishes from fellow members of my old University. Thank you sincerely. February 2010 From Ann Grave, Member Belatedly, I write to thank you for the most enjoyable luncheon, as your guest, prior to Christmas. Thank you too for the delicious cake – it was most welcome. I always look forward to activities at Graduate House – both the atmosphere there and the company are first rate. January 2010
VALETE
NEW MEMBERS
We have been notified of the deaths of the following members: Mr William Bainbridge, Life Member 1955 Ms Quentin Blew, Member 2007 Miss Mary Cameron, Life Member1955 Dr D Cordner, Life Member 1954 Miss A Gregory, Life Member 1967 Mr J Kiernan, Life Member Life Member 1953 Miss Marjorie Legg, Life Member 1952 Dr John Martin, Life Member 1975 Mr G McGarvie, Life Member1962 The Graduate Union appreciates the support of these members and extends condolences to their families. We regret that space constraints do not allow individual acknowledgement of each deceased member.
Corporate Oxfam Australia Melbourne Medical School Life Mr John Haasz, BScHons (ANU) BScHons Dr Anthony Nicholls, BScHons (New England), PhDPhil Ordinary Mr David Ford, BEngHons Mr Bernard Goldin, BA, LLB (Sth Africa) Miss Clare McClumpha, BSc Mrs Elizabeth Minasian, BBioChem(Bucharest) Ms Marielle Neesham, BAHons Associate Mrs Linda Franssen, DHSV New Graduates Helen Barnes, BA; BCom Marika Boelen, BEng; BA Elias Gudmundsson, BSc(Iceland), MSc Kristbjorg Kristinsdottir, BSc(Iceland), MBus Damien Lim, BPhysio Sarmad Noormofidi, MArch
DONATIONS Stella Langford Appeal D Adams, E S Brown, E Medling Building Fund $1,100 P Sholl $100 M Merchant $ 50 J Gregory, M Mahood Residents Assistance Fund $560 Professor V Sarafis Scholarship/Bursaries Fund $200 Dr B Tress $50 Mr G Israel Many thanks to Professor Vassilios Sarafis for his regular donations throughout the year. The Professor donates for specific items and currently these are three new showerheads and a laptop computer for resident use.
All degrees are from University of Melbourne unless otherwise noted and are stated as presented on members’ application forms.
AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS 2010 Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) The Hon Justice Bernard Bongiorno AO (Member 1995) Dr Anthony L Cunningham AO (Member 1984) Dr Peter J L’Estrange AO (Member 1975) Member of the Order of Australia (AM) Professor Graham V Brown AM (Life Member 1976) Professor Merilyn J Liddell AM (Member 1992) Mr John G McBride AM (Member 2005)
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE
ANNUAL REPORT Your Council presents its report on the Association for the financial year ended 31 December 2009 The names of Graduate Council members are listed below: President The Honourable John Cain Vice-President Dr R W Gibson Chairman Mr J A Binns Vice-Chairman Mr D N Sparks Ex-officio and nominees of the Vice-Chancellor Ms J Stephens (part year only) Mr D Proctor Twelve elected members Until May 2010 Mr J A Binns Ms C A Kidston Mr D N Sparks Mr E Wong Until May 2011 Ms M Cliff Dr R W Gibson Mr D McInerney Dr A K Roberts Until May 2012 Mr A G Cleghorn Mrs G J Fisher Mr D Eyres Dr C Booth Nature of operations and principal activities The principal activities during the year were the conduct of a residential postgraduate college affiliated with the University of Melbourne and the provision of facilities as University Graduates Club for members of the Graduate Union to enjoy social and intellectual activities. There was no significant change in the nature of these activities during the year. Results and review of operations The financial statements show total operating revenue of $2,475,817 with a surplus of $115,863 (last year $215,900). Revenue includes function and conference income of $536,454 (last year $421,614). Occupancy peaked at 98.80% in May and averaged 93.16% throughout the year. Donations amounted to $111,001 which included an amount of $8000 from the William Berry PostGraduate Trust.
The Stella Langford Project A major achievement of 2009 has been the transformation of the southern portion of the property. In spite of the best efforts of our staff, the old terraces with their cement sheet clad additions did not provide accommodation to be proud of. The new structures behind the restored street façade provide apartments of varying size and style, additional function and conference facilities and a car park of 75 spaces. This is a building which befits the generosity of Stella Langford whose bequest enabled the acquisition of this site many years ago. The building works were constructed on schedule and within the budget. The initial provision for contingencies was rather quickly used up early in the process because of problems with soil contamination. This was not really surprising given the past history of industrial activity on the site. It is satisfying to reflect that the Graduate Union has completed two major constructions in the space of seven years. A feature of the works completed by the Graduate Union has been the extent to which they have been sensitive to and preservative of the heritage values of University Square. Graduate Council members are aware that to maintain the position of Graduate House as a quality affiliated college of the University of Melbourne it cannot rest on its laurels but look forward to further enhancements in the future. Council is continually reviewing our activities and capacities. The future relies on the continuing efforts of our staff, good relations with our neighbours including the University, and the support of our benefactors and our bankers. Graduate Council The Graduate Union depends on the contribution from members of Graduate Council and the staff. In May, past Chairman, Mr Neil Taylor did not seek re-election and the number of nominations equalled the number of vacancies. At the Annual General Meeting, Mr Daniel McInerney and Dr Christopher Booth, who had filled the vacancies created at the 2008 election, were elected to Council, together with Mr David Eyres who had been co-opted in 2008, and Dr Andrew Roberts who was congratulated on his re-election. During the year, Vice-Chancellor s nominee, Ms Jenny Stephens resigned due a change in her position and the resulting time constraints. Graduate House Staff Our Head of College and Chief Executive Officer, Eugene Spanti continued to be supported by Assistant Secretary Lyn Weston and the Operations Manager, Mr David Tey. Mr Tey resigned at the end of the year to pursue other interests and we thank him for his excellent work, particularly his contribution to the redevelopment of the Stella Langford Project as well as overseeing day-to-day April 2010 Volume 63 No.2 – 3
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE operatio Mr M Daniel Danie Clark C ar was wa appointed appoin ed too take ake operations. o e th positi Danie ha had consid ab over the position. Daniel has had considerablee experien H has ha a Bachelor Bachelo of of Business, Busine experience. He majorin i Ho e a ering an Manag men W majoring in Hotel Catering and Management. We welcom him himtot the h Graduate Graduat House Hou Team. T am welcome Th onferen an fun ti n a had a very v ry The conference and function area had successfu year ea once on again. agai The Th manager man ge off this this successful are Mar i Rul resign d i em e pursu an area, Martin Rule resigned in December to pursue an offe in pai W wis him el in hi new ar e offer in Spain. We wish him well in his new career. Th catering ca erin team, ea namely namely Chef Chef Robert R er Goodman, dman The Ki c e Assistants Assis an Sujata u at Mandahar, Mandaha Basma B sm Kitchen y g f d s a Tantawy, Marwa Tantawy, Draga Jeftic and Bishal u el n r f t Gauli continued their excellent work for both si n akf s f M g residents and members. Breakfast Chef, Margaret Sc n l resigned sg r y ini the th year y Schintler early andd was e e p e g farwelled appropriately. Margaret saw many c g at Graduate Ga H r her 19 years y changes House during andd h r b ig li y ill b i d her bright personality will be missed. E n S Rosie Ellul, Conference Supervisor, and her team ed p id f i ndly nd ff i n continued to provide friendly and efficient service to nf nd d h g conference and events patrons and lunchtime guests d is y of t and were assisted by members of the catering team wh ad i l af q when additional staff was required. T s y y d d The front desk continued to be very capably handled Di M y t by Diana Moyses, who welcomed the many r si i gh el residents sustaining the high occupancy levels. Shi H e st b t t h f d Shirley Ho continued to assist both at the front desk el h i H as well as other areas requiring assistance. Her i k e eb expertise with keeping the web page current was m d much appreciated. T ok d Dianed Thomas attending H continued T das Bookkeeper d Thu d Graduate House on Tuesday and Thursday to deal ih h s with the day-to-day accounts. T g e d Throughout the year housekeepers, Anne Ladkins, Sh il B d ll Sheila Bevan and Anna Condello ensured d i hi h accommodation services were maintained l l i T C i S to high ci levels, andd Carmine nt while d t Lou m i Tarquinio ain the bui ng nd s Santalucia, rvic re s continued maintain the buildingwork and service ll h v to ontributed o a smooth ng tea areas. All have contributed to a smooth working team.
Membership Membership here were were 1994 994 members memb r att the th end nd off 2009 There 2009 of of whom 423 were ife member whom 1423 were life members. O all al membership m m rship categories, categories 207 20 new ne members Over members joined the Grad ate Union in 2009 s w re joined the Graduate Union in 2009. Th These were made up of Re ident 85 Life 2 Ass i t 2 made up of: Resident-85, Life-2, Associate-2, rp ra 1, Annual Ann 115 (incl incl 85 8 young oung graduate ) Corporate graduates). Many socia n s ar planned for 2010 and it Many social events are planned for 2010 and it iis p d members m pp t these th fu ti d th hoped will support functions and thatt th y wil attr c new mem ers and increase bu ine they will attract new members and increase business opp rtuniti s opportunities. Summaryy d g financial f lt off the th G d t The outstanding results Graduate U fl ll t f i i G d t Union reflect the excellent facilities at Graduate i t i d gh House, which has resulted in sustained hhigh p y t i f h occupancy and a substantial increase in use of the f g f ili Th d di i d conferencing facilities. The dedication and th i ff, a ly l by h H d f enthusiasm off the staff, ably led by the Head of C ll g CEO d b d d College and CEO, ensured members and residents i d g d l fo received outstanding service and value for money. T G U i p i d h y The Graduate Union experienced another very f l d l pl d h g i successful year and also completed the next stage in d p fi L S p p i redevelopment of its Leicester Street properties. S g if f y d Significant events after year-end T i ifi h h There have been no significant events, other than t th f d i hi i those that have been referred to in this report, since 31 D b 2009 i ff h i 31 December 2009 which may affect the operations f i l ii f th G d i or financial position of the Graduate Union.
Signed pursuant to a resolution of Council. Mr J Andrew Ch Binns i Chairman p il 2010 8 April, 2010
Attendance at Council and Committees (*part year only) (+V-C Nominee)
Hon J Cain Mr A Binns Dr C Booth Mr A Cleghorn Mrs M Cliff Mr D Eyres Mrs G Fisher Dr R Gibson Ms C Kidston Mr D McInerney
Dr A Roberts Mr D Sparks Mr N Taylor Mr E Wong Ms J Stephens+ Mr D Proctor+
Council Mtgs No held Attd. 6 5 6 6 6 5 6 6 6 6 6 5 6 5 6 4 6 6 6 4 6 5 6 6 6 2* 6 3 6 1* 6 3
4 – April 2010 Volume 63 No.2
House Board Mtgs No held Attd
Acct&Audit Mtgs No held Attd.
5 5
4 4
3 3
2 2
5
2
3
-
5
3
3 3*
2 -
5 5
2 4
5
3
3* 3*
2 1
Membership Mtgs No held Attd 6 6 6
1 2* 6
6 6
5 6
6
4
6 6 6 6
5 4* 2* 2
6
2
Fundraising Mtgs No held Attd. 3 2 3 -
3
1*
3
3
3
-
Rules Mtgs No held Attd
3
2
3
1
3 3 3 3
1* 3 3 2
3
3
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2009 2008 2009 $ $ INCOME Subscriptions 74,021 82,207 Accommodation 1,277,417 1,247,373 Property rentals 1,706 10,254 Catering 941,029 854,981 Donations: Building 106,830 65,436 Donations: Other 4,171 2,255 Interest received 54,277 59,189 Government Grant Nil 30,930 16,366 11,792 Other income 2,475,817 2,364,417 EXPENDITURE Employment costs 918,564 1,006,233 Catering supplies 412,748 397,977 Utilities 61,520 55,209 Communication costs 97,507 103,184 Rates & government 16,384 18,185 taxes Professional fees 92,752 98,019 Legal expenses 22,346 14,566 Insurances 30,112 26,627 Interest & bank charges 399,098 98,251 Repairs & maintenance 130,408 193,317 Scholarship Nil 1,000 64,791 68,258 Depreciation 2,723 Nil Loss on Disposal of Assets 2,248,953 2,080,826 NET SURPLUS
LESS ABNORMAL ITEMS
226,864
283,591
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 December 2009 CURRENT ASSETS Cash (See Note 4(a)) Receivables (See Note 4(c)) Stock (See Note 4(b)) Prepayments TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
NON-CURRENT ASSETS Property, plant & equipment (See Note 5) TOTAL NONCURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS
106,830
65,436
4,171
2,255
Transferred
111,001
67,691
NET SURPLUS (after deducting Abnormal Items)
115,863 ======
215,900 ======
2008 $
856,863 86,390 8,693 124,270
1,137,798 48,384 8,466 33,447
1,076,216
1,228,095
22,449,261
16,917,062
22,449,261
16,917,062
23,525,477
18,145,157
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Creditors and borrowings (See Note 6) Provisions (See Note 7)
358,180
629,270
131,822
160,669
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
490,002
789,939
7,000,000
1,500,000
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Creditors and borrowings (See Note 6) TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES TOTAL LIABILITIES
Donations: Building Donations: Residents Assistance Fund
2009 $
7,000,000
1,500,000
7,490,002
2,289,939
16,035,475
15,855,218
MEMBERS EQUITY Reserves (See Note 8) 14,505,430 Retained Funds (See Note 11) 1,530,045
14,441,036 1,414,182
NET ASSETS
TOTAL MEMBERS FUNDS
16,035,475 ========
15,855,218 ========
April 2010 Volume 63 No.2 – 5
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1(a) STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES These financial statements are general purpose financial reports prepared for use by members of the Association. The Council has determined that the Association is a reporting entity. The statements are prepared in accordance with the requirements of applicable Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in accordance with Schedule 1 of Associations Incorporation (Prescribed Particulars) Regulations 2001. The statements are prepared on an accruals basis and are based on historic costs and do not take into account changing money values or, except where specifically stated, current valuations of non-current 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) PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Plant and equipment are measured on a cost basis, unless otherwise stated. The carrying amount of plant and equipment was reviewed to ensure that the carrying value of these assets reflected their effective lives. 1(c) DEPRECIATION OF FIXED ASSETS The depreciation charge for plant and equipment is calculated on the straight line basis over the effective lives of the assets. 1(d) OPERATING REVENUE Details of operating revenue are in the Income Statement. Consistent with the previous year, life subscriptions & donations have been brought to account on a cash-received basis. Accommodation revenue is brought to account on the accruals basis. 1(e) INCOME TAX The Association s income is exempt from income tax by virtue of Subdivision 50-B of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 and has been endorsed as a tax concession charity for GST and fringe benefit tax by the Australian Taxation Office. 1(f) DONATIONS The Association is registered as a Deductible Gift Recipient for donations over $2. Donations are accounted for through the Income Statement and where applicable the Reserves. (See Note 8). 2009 2008 $ $ 2. AUDITOR S REMUNERATION For audit of accounts 6,491 8,860 other services Nil Nil (no other benefits were received by the auditor) 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. 4(a) CASH Cash at Bank 92,444 46,154 Cash Float & Bar Float 1,350 1,350 Term Deposits - NAB 763,069 1,090,294 856,863 1,137,798 4(b) STOCK AT COST Wine & Food 8,693 8,466 8,693 8,466
6 – April 2010 Volume 63 No.2
4(c) Receivables GST Refundable Accounts Receivable
$ 2009
$ 2008
75,600 10,790 86,390
45,255 3,129 48,384
5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (a) Property (i) Nos 210-214 Leicester Street, Carlton Stella Langford Bldg. Freehold land and buildings at Graduate Council s valuation 4,600,000 4,600,000 December 2006 (ii) No 216-220 Leicester Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at Graduate Council s valuation December 2006 5,200,000
5,200,000
(iii) Nos 222-228 Leicester Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at Graduate Council s valuation December 2006 3,400,000
3,400,000
(iv) Nos 230-234 Leicester Street, Carlton Freehold land and buildings at Graduate Council s valuation December 2006 2,550,000 15,750,000 (b) Plant and Equipment Plant and equipment - at cost Provision for depreciation (c) Capital Improvements Bathroom Renovations at cost Less: Transfer from Reserves (d) Stella Langford Project at cost Less: Transfer from Reserves Total Property Plant & Equipment (Items (a) to (d))
2,550,000 15,750,000
621,086 (284,247) 336,839
459,523 (239,660) 219,863
11,605 Nil 11,605
47,339 (35,734) 11,605
6,473,842 (123,025) 6,350,817
965,295 (29,701) 935,594
22,449,261
16,917,062
6. CREDITORS AND BORROWINGS Current Creditors 75,177 399,020 Accruals 71,559 38,771 GST Payable Nil Nil Residents Bonds & Advance 211,444 191,479 Accommodation Deposits 358,180 629,270 Financial Liabilities 1. Total Current and Non-Current Secured Liabilities Commercial Bill (Interest Only 1,000,000 1,000,000 Fixed Matures 2014) (a) Commercial Bill (Interest Only Fixed Matures 2013) (b) 6,000,000 500,000 7,000,000 1,500,000 (a) The $1million commercial bill is secured over 216-220 and 222-228 Leicester Street, Carlton. (b) The $6 million commercial bill is secured over 216-220 and 222-228 Leicester Street, Carlton
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE 2009 $
2008 $
7. PROVISIONS Employee Entitlements 131,822 160,669 Other than the provisions raised the Council is not aware of any other contingent liabilities. 8.
RESERVES
(a) Asset Revaluation Reserve Balance at 1 January Revaluation Increment (1) Balance 31 December (b) Residents Assistance Reserve Balance at 1 January Donations Balance 31 December (c) Building Reserve Balance at 1 January Donations Transfer to Assets (see Note 5(c)) Balance 31 December (d) Stella Langford Reserve Balance at 1 January Donations Transfer to Assets (see Note 5 Balance 31 December (e) Bursaries/Scholarship Reserve Balance at 1 January Donations Balance 31 December (f) Stillwell Collection (On permanent loan from the Stillwell family. (g) A valuation of all artworks was undertaken by Leonard Joel for insurance purposes.The appreciation of the assets has been included in the holding value of property, plant and equipment.
14,410,358 36,217 14,446,575
14,410,358 Nil 14,410,358
30,603 2,371 32,974
28,423 2,180 30,603
Nil 13,506 Nil 13,506
Nil 35,735 (35,735) Nil
Nil 93,324 (93,324) Nil
Nil 29,701 (29,701) Nil
75 1,800 1,875
Nil 75 75
10,500
Nil
10. SHARE CAPITAL The Association has no share capital. The Association was incorporated under the provisions of the Associations Incorporation Act on 12 June 1991. 11. RETAINED FUNDS Retained funds at 1 January Add Net Surplus for year Less Donations transferred to other Reserves Retained Funds at 31 December
1,414,182 226,864
1,198,282 283,591
(111,001) 1,530,045
(67,691) 1,414,182
12. The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated is not a trustee of any trust at the date of this report, except for the Residents Assistance Fund (See Note 1(f)). The balance of the Residents Assistance Fund is deposited separately with the National Australia Bank.
STATEMENT BY COUNCIL 14,505,430
14,441,036
9. STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS (a) Cash flows from operating activities Members subscriptions 74,021 Accommodation & meals 2,190,820 Donations & other income 127,367 Payments to suppliers & employees (2,256,905) Net cash provided by operating 135,303 activities Cashflows from investing activities Property rentals Commercial Bill Funds expended on development and renovations Funds expended on asset purchases
2009 2008 $ $ Interest on investment accounts 54,277 59,189 Net cash used by investing activities (416,238) (332,415) Net increase/(decrease) cash held (280,935) 335,997 Cash at start of financial year 1,137,798 801,801 Cash at end of financial year 856,863 1,137,798 (b) Reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to operating surplus before abnormal items Operating surplus before abnormal 115,863 283,591 items Depreciation of non current assets 64,791 68,258 Changes in net assets & liabilities Increase/(Decrease) in provision (28,847) 55,835 for employee entitlements Decrease/(Increase) in receivables (129,056) (53,910) Prepayments and inventory Increase/(Decrease) in other Creditors/Borrowings 5,228,910 873,644 Decrease/(Increase) in non-current (5,596,990) (893,676) assets Increase/(Decrease) in Reserves 2,255 64,394 Net Increase/(Decrease) in Cash held (280,935) 335,997
82,207 2,127,384 110,413 (1,651,592) 668,412
1,706 5,500,000 (5,877,612)
10,254 500,000 (873,324)
(94,609)
(28,534)
The Council of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated is of the opinion that: (a) the accompanying Income Statement is drawn up so as to give a true and fair view of the operations of the Association for year ended 31 December 2009; (b) the accompanying Balance Sheet is drawn up so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Association as at 31 December 2009; and (c) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable. By resolution of the Council. J.A. Binns E.A. Spanti
Chairman Head of College and CEO Carlton, 8 April 2010
April 2010 Volume 63 No.2 – 7
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE
VALE Dr Phillip Law AC CBE
A. L. Law, FCA 3 Evergreen Avenue, Balwyn Vic 3103 Phone 9830 1242, Mobile 0417 013 395 ABN 45 614 724 892
Chartered Accountants
INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GRADUATE UNION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE INCORPORATED SCOPE
I have audited the financial report of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated for the year ended 31 December 2009, as set out in the Annual Report on pages 3 to 7. The elected 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 needs of the Associations Incorporation Act (Victoria) 1981 and the needs of members. I have conducted an independent audit of the financial report in order to express an opinion on it to the members. My audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free of material misstatement. My procedures included examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures in the financial report and the evaluation of accounting policies and 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 Accounting Standards, the requirements of the Associations Incorporation Act (Victoria) 1981 and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in Australia so as to present a view which is consistent with my understanding of the Graduate Union’s financial position, and the results of its operations and its cash flows. The accounting 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 of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated is properly drawn up in accordance with applicable Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in Australia, so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of The Graduate Union of the University of Melbourne Incorporated as at 31 December 2009, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended on that date.
A. L. Law FCA Registered Company Auditor, Reg No. 9310 Melbourne, 8 April 2010 Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation
8 – April 2010 Volume 63 No.2
Members will be saddened to learn of the death of Dr Phillip Law, a great Australian and a benefactor of the Graduate Union over many years. He was President of the Graduate Union from 1971 to 1977. Dr Law was presented with Honorary Life Membership at the Chairman’s Cocktail Party in December 2004. He celebrated his 93rd birthday with a formal dinner at Graduate House in April 2005. Phillip Law was born in Tallangatta, the second of six children. After matriculating at Hamilton High School, he attended Ballarat and Melbourne Teachers Colleges and later, Melbourne University. He was the university lightweight boxing champion. After teaching at Clunes, Elwood and then Melbourne Boys High School, he took leave to complete a master’s degree in physics. The war intervened and the university’s physics department became involved in weapons research and this prevented his enlistment in the RAAF. However, he did manage a four month visit the battle areas of New Guinea on a scientific mission for the Australian Army. After the war, Dr Law lectured at the university, his speciality being cosmic rays. With the establishment in 1947 of the Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions (ANARE), Phillip Law was seconded to act as senior officer, co-ordinating scientific programs and cosmic ray observations. He was appointed head of ANARE in 1949. Dr Law was Director of the Antarctic expeditions from 1949-1966 where he followed in the footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson and Captain Kenneth Davis. He established Mawson, Davis and Casey Stations, and was also responsible for charting nearly 5000 kilometres of coastline and about a million square kilometres of the continent’s interior. Among his many achievements, he was Executive Vice-President of the Victorian Institute of Colleges 1966-1977, and President of the Royal Society of Victoria 1967-69. He was also honoured by numerous scientific and professional organisations and educational institutions. Phillip Law was a great Australian who also lived a rich non-professional life in addition to his remarkable achievements. He was playing tennis well into his 90s and was a regular guest in the bistro at Graduate House until quite recently.
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE GRADUATE UNION COUNCIL ELECTION General Information As a result of the call for nominations published in the February issue of The Melbourne Graduate three (3) valid nominations have been received for the four (4) positions to be filled. A poll will therefore not need to be held, and the following candidates will be declared elected by the President at the Annual General Meeting to be held on Thursday, 27 May 2010. They will have terms expiring in May 2013. Personal Information and Policy Statements Submitted by Candidates For the information of members of the Graduate Union the successful candidates are listed below in alphabetical order of surname. The information provided by the candidates has 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.
BINNS, Andrew, BA
Proposer – Robert William Gibson Seconder – Glenda Joan Fisher Andrew Binns has been a member of Graduate Council for almost eight years and is currently the Chairman. He has maintained his focus on delivering improved levels of service and accommodation for residents and members as can be seen by the recent completion of the Stella Langford Wing. His enthusiasm for the support of research and postgraduate education has resulted in the introduction of an annual research scholarship for a Graduate House resident.
KIDSTON, Cheryl, BA(Social Studies Hons)
Proposer – Andrew Kingsley Roberts Seconder – David Norman Sparks As a sitting Councillor, I am seeking your support to build on the knowledge and experience I have gained over the past years to represent the interests of all members and the Union. The challenges ahead include maintaining our placement as a leading University college for post graduate students, forging a clear strategic direction, expansion and support of the membership base, increased reciprocity with international colleges, and heightened recognition of Graduate House as a conference and seminar venue. We are a member based organisation, and I will be alert to all ideas, views and representations. I will be grateful for your support to continue to serve your interests and those of our organisation.
SPARKS, David, BSc Electrical Engineering(UNSW)
Proposer – Barbara Funder Seconder – Miriam Heather Kudeviita In recent years I have been Chair of the House Board, a member of the Membership committee and vice Chair of the Council. Last year I was a member of the Stella Langford site committee. By the above means I have gained a good insight into the working of the Graduate Union and the challenges which the staff encounter and graciously resolve. Looking to the future, we all have a wish to see the new Stella Langford wing continue to settle down as strong contributor to the enjoyment it offers to residents and members. Looking ahead we need to track the implementation of the Stella Langford building and further ahead I am currently chairing a small committee which is planning a retreat for Councillors and the CEO, during which we will review our situation and try to look at what our future may offer and how we may steer a path to it.
Being a Graduate Union Member I would like to share with you my experience of an untold benefit of being a member of the Graduate Union. Last Friday (12 March) I was at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, having delivered my sister to the Trauma Unit after my car was smashed by an SUV with a bull bar. The driver freely admitted not seeing me. My sister had to be cut out of the car and is presently still hospitalised. Miraculously, I was totally unharmed. After more than an hour at the accident scene and another hour in the ambulance, I had to find a peaceful place for my own recovery, while waiting for my sister’s test results. Feeling totally disorientated and lost, I knew that I had to get out of the hospital. It took a while before my surroundings became familiar and I realised that I was close to Graduate House. I was met with understanding and compassion by Rosie and Eugene who put a room and shower at my disposal and ensured that I was left undisturbed. Mulling over the events later, I realised that the darkened room and comfortable bed, the refreshing cold shower and the friendliness and sympathy shown to me, were absolutely the most important elements enabling me to return to the hospital, calmed and strengthened . Such benefits are priceless and I am most grateful to have experienced them. Sincerely, Marguerita Adam
Introducing
AT GRADUATE HOUSE
Ron Ritchie, Returning Officer April 2010 Volume 63 No.2 – 9
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE
EVENTS
Summer Barbecue There was a disappointing turn-up of only ten members for the first social evening of 2010. Those members who did support the event enjoyed a sumptuous meal in the company of the large number of residents already in the house for the start of the first semester. Bus trip to DeBortoli Winery On 18 March a group of 25 members, residents and friends spent an enjoyable day at the Yarra Valley property of DeBortoli Wines. It was an excellent event and, judging from comments at the end of the day, everybody enjoyed themselves immensely. Our Head of College made sure the trip to the winery was interesting and fun by giving out assorted gifts to those who could answer questions about the many facets of the Graduate Union both past and present. Surprisingly, somehow everybody on the bus received a gift! The service by the DeBortoli staff was faultless. Our guide, Cara, was a lovely natural girl with a sense of humour and her knowledge of both the history of the DeBortoli family since their arrival in Australia in the 1920s and the different aspects of wine-making was very impressive. The lunch of antipasto and pasta was delicious and the cheese and dessert wine tasting was a great way to end the meal. The journey back to Graduate House was somewhat more subdued than the morning drive to the winery, everybody being quite worn out after a very enjoyable day.
NEWS Members will remember the outstanding work of Francesca Folk-Scolaro in researching the history of Stella Langford to mark the opening of the Wing which bears her name. Francesca is a keen history buff and belongs to the Brunswick Francesca Folk-Scolaro is presented with the History Group. On Australia award by Mr Russell Rees APSM, Australia Day Ambassador and Councillor Stella Day, in conjunction with its Kariofyllidis, Mayor, Moreland City Council Australia Day citizen ceremony, the Moreland Council also recognized Francesca as the History Group’s ‘driving force’ and named her ‘Citizen of the Year’. The Council provided the group with a floor at the Town Hall for their History Exposition, something for which they have been striving for some time. 10 – April 2010 Volume 63 No.2
SPEAKERS FEBRUARY – Transparency International The figures quoted by David Mattiske on the scale of corruption, particularly in Third World counties, are staggering. He said that currently 30% of Russia’s budget went to the Russian mafia, while the Indonesian economy would collapse if Indonesia were to repay the money siphoned off by the Suharto family during their time in power. It is estimated that each year $1.6 trillion meant for poor countries finds its way to people in positions of trust, i.e. politicians and bureaucrats, for personal gain. This in turn leads to inflated prices for everyday commodities and so the poor get poorer. The impact is felt economically, socially, politically and on the environment. As David pointed out, in order for these bureaucrats and politicians to accept payments, there must be a ‘payer’ and it is here that First World countries must take responsibility. Transparency International is working assiduously to stamp out corrupt business practices and the use of bribery in the tender process and other production areas. Progress is relatively slow but there have been some successes, notably the Integrity Pacts in South America and Northern Italy. In South America there has been a 50% reduction in the cost of doing business. MARCH – Volunteer Cleft Palate Survey in Viet-Nam On Wednesday 3rd March Mr Rowan Story, Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon, came and spoke about his volunteer work in Vietnam where he performs Cleft Palate surgery. Managing a private practice in Melbourne, Rowan Story is also Head of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Monash Medical Centre, and Honorary Senior Lecturer in Medicine at Monash University. He is also the Consultant in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery to the Surgeon General of the Australian Defence Force. When speaking about his 13 volunteer trips to Vietnam his discourse was very informative and the audience was enthralled by his philanthropic conduct and medical expertise. He highlighted some cultural aspects such as the relentlessly cheerful disposition of the Vietnamese and their rich religious culture. Mr Story also spoke about how such a vast population of 88 million people fit into a space around half the size of New South Wales. In Vietnam there are many birth defects with 1 in 800 live births result in cleft palate. Mr Story spoke precisely and knowledgeably. We were shown many interesting slides and a captivating video of the actual surgery being performed. It is clear Rowan Story is an intelligent and very modest humanitarian. He also displayed a great sense of humour, with the serious issues being discussed interspersed with down-to-earth humor which was very well received. Kate Spanti
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE
RESIDENTS Keiichi Shigechi Keiichi was born and raised in Japan. After PhD studies in mathematical physics, he has continued his academic career as a post-doc for a year in France and for another year in The Netherlands. He gets a chance to spend a half-year at the University of Melbourne, and excited about coming back to the beautiful city (this is his first long stay in Melbourne). In his spare time, he plays and loves soccer, swimming, snowboarding, travelling etc. He really looks forward to experiencing the Australian culture, landscape and people (and research as well!). Anna Yee Ling Thang Anna was born in Kuala Lumpur and grew up in Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore. She completed her Bachelor of Architectural Studies at Melbourne University in 2008 and is currently doing a year of work experience concentrating on residential architecture. She will be returning for her Masters of Architecture in March 2010 and is quite excited about it- being fully intent on appreciating her last two years of university life before starting out on her professional career. In her free time she enjoys looking for good food around Melbourne, reading, and learning to play her electric bass guitar which she has recently picked up. Mehmet Gurkan I was born in a small town called Datca , which is in south-west part of Turkey. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management at the American University of Cyprus. It was a unique experience for me both socially and academically. My hobbies include going to movies, playing computer games, travelling and playing chess. Now I’m after another adventure but in Australia this time. I’ll be doing my MSc as coursework in Information Systems, Faculty of Science. I’m looking forward to this new experience and I’m sure I’ll enjoy my time in Melbourne. Brecht Valcke Brecht is 26 years old and comes from Flanders, Belgium. He obtained his Master in Laws at the University of Leuven, where he specialised in contract, commercial, corporate and tax law and has worked as a legal assistant for a multi-national company negotiating and drafting contracts and coordinating legal affairs. Brecht plays tennis and soccer at competition level, as well as being involved in show-jumping. He has played and refereed the city rugby team of Leuven and was coach of the university team of Leuven. He loves cooking, wine and -being Belgian- he appreciates a nice beer. His other interests include films and photography, as well as travelling and cultural visits. Brecht is currently doing a postgraduate Master of Laws (LLM) at University of Melbourne.
Victor Ching Victor is a psychology student from University of Nottingham in United Kingdom. He had a wide range of job experiences, from working in the overseas marketing team of an office furniture company to the public relations department of the Education Bureau in Hong Kong. Also, he has been working as a teacher in secondary schools and a special education school. He studied his Postgraduate Diploma in Education at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and wanted to do his Master in Educational Psychology course at the University of Melbourne. It is the second time he has visited Melbourne since 2000, he is keen to know more about the Australian culture and people. Soccer is his life and he supports England (and Australia) in World Cup 2010. He is a music fan and loves meeting new people!
NEW STAFF Daniel Clark joined Graduate House staff in December 2009 following the resignation of David Tey, the Operations Manager. Daniel has a Bachelor of Business, from Victoria University, majoring in Hotel Administration. He comes to Graduate House from the hospitality industry, having worked in several city hotels in various roles. Daniel is married to Amy, and they have a 10 month son, Ethan. Shirley Ho Shirley joined the team at Graduate House in 2009. She works three days each week in the office helping mainly in the accommodation area. Shirley has significant experience with website maintenance and her expertise in this area is greatly appreciated. Shirley is originally from Malaysia, where she worked for 15 years in one of Singapore’s largest architectural offices as an Autocad draughtsman. Shirley, her architect husband, Albert Lee and two children, Qeeran 10 and Daqlan 8, arrived in Australia four years ago and have recently become citizens. Bill Mihelakis Bill is our new Conference Catering Assistant Supervisor. He has an Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management from Box Hill TAFE and has been involved the hospitality industry for 15 years. His experience includes a six-month stint in Crete where he helped with the running of an elite restaurant/bar. For five years he managed a patisserie in South Yarra. Bill enjoys food, sport and spending time with family and friends. He hopes to one day own and run his own business. April 2010 Volume 63 No.2 – 11
THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE
FROM THE HEAD OF COLLEGE
T
he Stella Langford Wing is now open. The official opening took place on 31 March and was a night to remember. There was a large attendance including Past Chairman, Mark Sibree and former Secretary-Warden, Ian Cayzer. Chef Robert Goodman and the catering staff did a magnificent job, the food was sensational. All the staff worked extremely hard to make the evening a stunning success. I am also delighted to announce 100 percent occupancy of the new facility, which is higher than expected. The ten new apartments have been very well received, for their modern stylish design and comfortable setting. We are tremendously proud of the finished result. Members, including myself, who attended the Winery Tour on 18 March had a very enjoyable day. The magnificiant DeBortoli Winery in the Yarra Valley is certainly geared for visitors and we enjoyed a winery tour and tasting, followed by a beautiful lunch and cheese and dessert wine tasting. DeBortoli was named 2008 Best Tourism Winery at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards and voted Winery of the year in Quaff 2010. It is easy to see why. As you know, the Graduate Union will be offering members a tour of Prague & Bohemia, Dresden & Berlin from 14-29 September 2011 led by Kenneth W Park and Dr Iva Rosario. The tour will give the group an opportunity to explore the development and cultural ambience of three great European cities, Prague, Dresden and Berlin. It will be a pleasure to travel with Kenneth Park who has a jovial personality together with extensive knowledge of the regions being toured which will make this an experience to remember. The first of four Information Evenings was held on 13 April, with others scheduled for 15 June, 10 August and 30 November between 6pm – 7pm. We have recently introduced a Stonegrill experience in the bistro. Stonegrill is the unique interactive dining system that allows fresh food to be presented, cooking on a heated stone at the diner’s table. This innovative system offers an exciting and healthy style of dining. I hope members will enjoy this new concept. Eugene Spanti
%
To:
The Graduate Union
220 Leicester Street
Carlton Vic 3053
Please send me information regarding Wills and Bequests to The Graduate Union
All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible (gift under S20-25 of the ITAA 1997)
I/We would like to make a donation to THE GRADUATE UNION ANNUAL APPEAL (Please select) Stella Langford Building Project Naming Rights of Apartments ($10,000 each) (7 left) Naming Rights of Conference Areas ($25,000 each) Naming Rights of Car Park Spaces ($5,000 each)
Building Fund - for the upkeep of the Graduate House Terraces
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Residential Bursaries/Scholarship Program
Enclosed is my cheque/money order for $........................ or please debit this amount to my credit card account M/card
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12 –April 2010 Volume 63 No.2