Engineers Australia Northern Division
Annual Report 2007 Survey House, 14 Shepherd Street Darwin GPO Box 417 Darwin NT 0801 Director Bronwyn Russell Telephone 08 8981 4137 Fax 08 8981 3449 Email nt@engineersaustralia.org.au
President’s Report The Year of Women in Engineering was celebrated with a great deal of enthusiasm in Northern Division. The launch event was to be a cruise on Darwin Harbour but a cyclone intervened, activities with boats looked unattractive, and the event was instead held at Stoke Hill Wharf on a very wet and windy evening. Despite this the event was a great success and one of the most animated and enjoyable Engineers Australia gatherings ever. Women in Engineering continued to be celebrated through the year culminating in the Gala Dinner at Pee Wee’s in October. Again it was a great event in an absolutely sublime setting. Engineers Australia had a productive dialogue with the Northern Territory Government this year on issues relating to cyclone safety. This was assisted greatly by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure conducting a very informative two day seminar on cyclone design issues. A committee within the Division co-operated with NT Government agencies to produce a brochure giving clearer information to home owners on how to prepare for a cyclone. This co-operative arrangement is planned to continue next year. This year we were able to increase the Division office staff by adding a third (part time) person to carry much of the burden of the school programs. This has allowed Bronwyn and Justine to concentrate on other programs. Another move to improve office efficiency occurred late in the year when we employed a full time receptionist for the first time. These changes have reduced stress and increased our capability to deliver programs more effectively. Groups such as Young Engineers and the Engineering Heritage had significant successes during the year. The Young Engineers’ Golf Day was again a great success. The Engineering Heritage Committee finally got approval for plaquing of the Stuart Highway North, after a lot of additional work, and made significant progress on two new plaquing nominations. Work also started on a second Engineering Heritage brochure, with funding from the Northern Territory Government, which will cover sites in the Greater Darwin area. Meanwhile the Darwin City Engineering Heritage Tour brochure continues to be popular. My second year as Division President has been most enjoyable and, I hope, productive. I have received tremendous support from members, particularly in making all of our events bigger,
better and more successful. Bronwyn and Justine, in particular have made my task easier with their incredibly high level of support and enthusiasm. I wish the Division every success in 2008. Owen Peake
YWCA Through a chance encounter at lunch, the YWCA of Darwin was launched into a relationship with Engineers Australia Northern Division. In their year of Women in Engineering, the team at Northern Division identified Encore as a program specifically for women that they would support with fundraising in 2007. Encore is a program delivered by the YWCA Australia-wide through local YWCA Associations. It provides exercise, information and support to women who have experienced breast cancer surgery at any time in their lives. The exercises are designed specifically to increase mobility and flexibility, and to minimize the impact of lymphodoema which can be a common after effect of surgery. Through Northern Division, the YWCA of Darwin connected with the West Australian Breast Cancer Foundation (WABCF) who had formed an alliance with Steel Blue through their Foundation to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and available support and information. Purple Boots were the vehicle for this campaign, and the sale of each pair saw $30 go to WABCF to deliver an Australia wide education program in schools. In Darwin, Geminex kindly donated an additional $10 to the YWCA Encore Program for each pair of boots sold. Lilla Worthington launched the Darwin Purple Boots Campaign at the Nightcliff Markets with a great version of “These boots are made for walking.” The connection with Northern Division has been wonderful for the YWCA of Darwin. We have raised awareness of our Encore Program, connected with businesses and people outside our usual sphere, and come to appreciate the very important work of engineers in our community. Additionally, $1,500.00 has added to the viability of our Encore Program thanks to Northern Division’s fundraising efforts. It has been a delight working with Bronwyn and Justine, and the YWCA of Darwin extends our appreciation and thanks to Engineers Australia Northern Division for your interest and support through 2007. Sue Brownlee Executive Director
Partner
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Director’s Report 2007 has been as busy as any year that Northern Division has ever experienced. As we work to fulfill the KPIs of the eight parts to the Strategic Plan it means that there are more activities planned each year. 2007 has seen some increases in staff resources. Rosemary Carson is now fulfilling the role of Youth Programs Coordinator and we employed a trainee to assist with administrative duties. Sadly our trainee left suddenly this week but we hope to recruit to the position again. The extra positions have made a huge difference to the workload that Justine and I have normally experienced and we look forward to maintaining these positions into the future. Justine Whittington was awarded a Pride of Workmanship Award by the Rotary Club of Darwin North recently. This award is justly deserved by Justine as she is a capable person who always goes the extra mile for members of Northern Division. Several members were present at the Casino to see her award presented by the Chief Minister Clare Martin. This year has seen several members in Indonesia getting together for technical presentations. If any NT based members ever happen to be heading Jakarta way, please let us know so that you can meet up with your colleagues. The 14 Shepherd St building has recently been sold. Fortunately we have just over a year to run with our current lease with a five year option after that. There was brief consideration
by Engineers Australia to consider purchasing the building but it was decided not to proceed. APESMA has decided to close its office in Darwin as they have not had staff for some time so the Division will be seeking new tenants to maintain the budgeted income level. The Conference room continues to contribute to our budget as it is used regularly by outside associations. Northern Division has always embraced the various “Years of” that have occurred and 2007 has been no different. The Year of Women in Engineering has been a successful year with a number of events targeted or co-badged to reflect the year. As part of the year, Northern Division participated in the Purple Boot campaign which was very successful and supported YWCA Encore program for post Breast Cancer surgery survivors. Next year will be the “Year of the Engineering Team” and we are currently looking at activities to support and raise the profile of the valuable contribution by Engineering Technologists and Associates. During the year the chairs in the Conference Room were replaced and the old ones were donated to YMCA so if you are ever in the Recreation Centre in Palmerston you may find yourself sitting on them once again. We are about to enter a new era with a new photocopier which will service most of our printing needs in the future. As the year draws to a close I am reminded of the huge number of volunteer hours that members give to Northern Division. I am constantly supported by the Division Committee and many others who offer their precious time to help run events. Thank you to Owen who has worked diligently as President for the past 2 years and I would like to say “take a rest” but I know that he is now going to be National President of the Heritage Group! Bronwyn Russell
1. Public Role and Professional Standing National Engineering Excellence Awards Congratulations to all of the Northern Division finalists who participated in the Awards at the Great Hall Parliament House last Thursday. Northern Division is always a stand out participator and this year was no different. The standard was high with more entries than ever before. Northern Division was represented by Louise McCormick, Young Professional Engineer of the Year, George Skene, Professional Engineer of the Year and Grant Behrendorff Engineering Technologist of the Year plus the Darwin Waterfront Sea Wall and DCEC Pad Project entered by Macmahon and Connell Wagner. Congratulations goes to Grant Behrendorff who won the National Engineering Technologist of the Year. Grant's achievements with the Bushlight Program in Central Australia was a key contributor to him winning this prestigious award. Bronwyn Russell
Youth Partner
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1. Public Role and Professional Standing Engineering Excellence Awards in the Year of Women in Engineering The 2007 Engineering Excellence Awards dinner was held on Friday, 10th August with six projects submitted for consideration by the judging panel This Years Entries Included:
Project Title
Submission
Darwin Waterfront Project Seawall and DCEC Pad
Macmahon Contractors Pty Ltd and CW-DC Pty Ltd
West Alligator River, West Branch Emergency Design and Construct
Department Of Planning and Infrastructure
Darwin Underground Power Project Scorpion Creek Bridge Rehabilitation Territory Iron Stacker and Conveyor System Victoria River Flood Plain Upgrade – Public Environmental Report
Nilsen NT Pty Ltd Department Of Planning and Infrastructure Nilsen NT Pty Ltd and Emerson Stewart Department Of Planning and Infrastructure
Professional Engineer of the Year Award George Skene MIEAust George graduated from The School of Mines Ballarat as a Civil Engineer and has worked most of his life in remote areas of Australia. George has over 35 years experience in the public and private sectors and is currently the Design Manager on the Darwin Waterfront Community Infrastructure and Marine Works Project for Macmahon. George has a long experience with Engineers Australia and was a member of the steering committee that established Northern Division in 1981.
Young Professional Engineer of the Year Louise McCormick MIEAust Louise has a Bachelor of Engineering Degree, working as a structural engineer and is currently studying for her Masters of Engineering Degree. Louise is the Manager of the Structural Section for the Department of Planning & Infrastructure. Louise has an active interest and involvement in research work in fibre composite structures and bridges and has presented at the AUSTROADS bridges conference . Louise is a very active member of Engineers Australia, has been the President of the Young Engineers Committee in Northern Division and on the Management Committee .
Engineering Technologist of the Year Award
The Winners were Engineering Excellence Award 2007 Northern Division
Macmahon Contractors Pty Ltd and CW-DC Pty Ltd, Darwin Waterfront Project Seawall and DCEC Pad
Peoples Choice Award
Macmahon Contractors Pty Ltd and CW-DC Pty Ltd, Darwin Waterfront Project Seawall and DCEC Pad
Highly Commended Award
Department Of Planning and Infrastructure, West Alligator River, West Branch Emergency Design and Construct
Professional Engineer of the Year Young Professional Engineer of the Year Engineering Associate of the Year
George Skene Louise McCormick Grant Behrendorff
Grant Behrendorff TMIEAust Grant has a Bachelor of TechnologyElectrical and Electronic Engineering and the Company Directors Diploma as well as being a licensed electrical fitter/mechanic. Grant won a Queensland Division Engineering Excellence Award in 2001. Grant currently manages the Bushlight Indigenous renewable energy project at the Centre for Appropriate Technology in Alice Springs, has assisted Desert Knowledge obtain funding for a Solar Energy Demonstration Facility in Alice Springs through his feasibility study and he will continue to be the Project Director. Grant chaired and represented the Alice Springs Solar Cities Consortium which was successful in obtaining $12.3million from the Australian Government in 2007.
Judging Panel Thanks to our team of judges David Rolland, Fred Barlow, Wee King Soh, Fiona Chamberlain & John Jenkins.
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1. Public Role and Professional Standing Division Liaison The President, Director and members of Northern Division represented Engineers Australia on many occasions during the year. These include
• Minister Delia Lawrie, Minister for Planning and Lands
• Charles Darwin University Industry Engagement Com-
• Department of Planning and Infrastructure CEO, Build-
•
• • • • • • • • •
partment of Employment Education and Training and Infrastructure and Transport
mittee, Curriculum Committee, Prize Giving, Graduation and Thesis Presentations Vice Chancellor, Dean of the Faculty of Technology, Head of the School of Engineering and Logistics at Charles Darwin University Northern Territory Economic Summit The Hon Ted Egan the Administrator of the Northern Territory Defence Liaison, Army & Navy Defence Support Industry Skills Network Media exposure through NT News, Territory FM and ABC Radio Northern Territory Business Council meetings The Australian Council of Building Environment Design Professions Minister Paul Henderson, Minister for Business Economic and Regional Development and Essential Services Minister Syd Stirling, Treasurer and Minister for the De-
• • • • • •
• • • •
ing Branch, Construction Industry Reference Group, Consultant Industry Forum, NT Building practitioners Board Department of Employment Education and Training, CEO, Teaching, Learning and Standards Division Power and Water Corporation Department of the Chief Minister NT Emergency Services re Wind Codes and potential Cyclone risks to the public Hon Dave Tollner Federal Member for Solomon Hon Julie Bishop Federal Minister for Education, Science & Training & Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women’s Issues NT Building Advisory Committee NT House Energy Rating Industry Reference Group NT Procurement Advisory Board National Engineers Registration Board
2. An Inclusive Professional Team Membership MEMBERSHIP Honorary Fellow Fellow Member Companion Graduate Student
1 44 206 1 97 147
Tech Fellow
2
Tech Member
4
Tech Graduate
3
Tech Student
2
Officer Fellow
3
Officer Member
17
Officer Graduate
12
Officer Student
7
Affilitate
2
CPEng
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Division membership has increased from 535 in 2006 to 548 in 2007. . Currently less that 10% of our membership base was female. The focus for 2008 the Year of the Engineering Team is to capture and bring on board those individuals who meet the criteria of Technologist, Associate, Companion or Affiliate.
Technologists
The NT Engineering Technologists had a very quiet year this year. We held two joint meetings with the Engineering Associates and had a very poor turnout at each meeting. On a national level the Technologists are working very hard to try to achieve a higher profile and recognition. The Technologists would be the smallest grade within Engineers Australia and possibly the least known and understood. Most people don’t realize that a 3 year degree or equivalent qualification is required to achieve Technologist grade. To achieve a higher profile we need more Technologists to become active both within Engineers Australia and in their own industries. Next year will be the Year of the Engineering Team and we will be striving to have as many The YMCA would like to thank Engineers Australia for the kind Technologists as possible donation of the conference room chairs. The YMCA is a not for present at all of our profit organisation which offers services to disadvantaged meetings and functions groups in society and the money saved in terms of the donation as the Technologists cerhas been directed towards providing services to these groups, tainly form an integral your kind donation means we can continue our good work and part of the overall engiprovide services for people who need it most. neering team. Thank you for your generosity. Raquel Nicholls-Skene Len Chappell
YMCA
2. An Inclusive Professional Team Membership Groups Associates During April I attended a Joint Technologists/Associates meeting in Melbourne. A feature of that meeting was the enthusiasm shown by President-elect AVM Julie Hammer toward the contribution to the Engineering Team by Associates and Technologists. In November I attended another meeting of the National Committee of Engineering Associates Australia at which the Year of the Engineering Team was further promoted. Our chair is SQNLDR Rossi Magno who was National Associate of the Year in 2006. My Technologist colleague, Len Chappell and I, together with Justine Whittington called for a meeting of Associates and Technologists at Survey House on 31 May 07. This elicited some response (5 apologies) however nil attendance. A later meeting on 28 June achieved a better response. There are 39 Associates in the Division. 2008 is the ‘Year of the Engineering Team’ . We would like to
receive stories about the contribution our Northern Division Associates are making to the Engineering Team to be featured in Newsletters and Engineers Australia. I know we have Associates in valuable and responsible positions in the Military and in Industry – let’s have your stories. I was Engineering Associate of the Year for the Northern Division in 2006. There was no nomination in 2007. Let’s have a nomination for the Year of the Engineering Team in 2008 and the Young Engineers would welcome a Young Associate into their group. Luccio Cercarelli from Palmerston City Council is the National Associates Representative on Civil College. We thank the Division President, Owen Peake, Director Bronwyn Russell and Administrator Justine Whittington for their assistance and support. The Associates enjoy a good society and relations with all the groups in the Northern Division which we’d like to celebrate in 2008. Robert Calaby
Congratulations to Northern Division Newest Fellows Richard Exley Tissa de Silva
Bob Calaby Bede Rodeghiero
Ross Treacy Stefania Fikus John Scott Bruce Webster Barry Berwick
George Skene Kevin Williams
Friso De Boer Ron Beekma
Regions Alice Springs 2007 was a relatively quiet year for activities of the Group, although everyone is busier than normal. In May we were honoured with the visit of the National President Rolf Hartley, his wife Brenda, the Executive Officer Peter Taylor, his wife Barbara, they were accompanied by our Northern Division President Owen and Director Bronwyn Russell. A Camp Oven Kitchen night in the scrub was organised to recognise the visit and in addition to an excellent dinner we were entertained by wine and songs.
In August, members participated in the annual Science and Engineering Challenge to help develop interest in these areas in our upcoming youth September saw another Youth program, Sunchase, a model Solar Car and Boat Challenge and this is covered in more detail by a separate article 2007 also saw the moving on of Mark Skinner to quieter pastures ( early retirement) although he has been busier since by all reports. We would like to thank Mark for his work on the Committee and for the many events he as organised. In 2008 we hope to have more events so helpers and suggestions are most welcome. Steve Sawyer
Nhulunbuy It's been a very hectic year for engineers in Gove this year, as the Alcan expansion project has been in full swing. As a result, participation in Engineers Australia activities has fallen off and it has been a quiet year on that front. Scott Savage handed over to Cam MacDiarmid as the area representative in July. There has been an effort made to encourage graduates to complete their career episode reports and achieve CPEng status, and meetings have been held to promote this effort. We've had input into the Gove Science week "Science Fair", organised by the Gove Amateur Astronomers, and the Regional office has helped with some encouragement for our less talented golfers! Cam MacDiarmid
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2. An Inclusive Professional Team Engineering Heritage Committee (Northern Division) A significant number of projects have progressed this year. Highlights were:
•
Our nomination for plaquing the Stuart Highway North required further work before we got approval. The ceremony at the RAAF Gates occurred in December. Many thanks to Peter Poole.
•
In May we took part in the National Trust Heritage Festival, putting on several displays and running tours of the Stokes Hill Steam Pump House.
•
As part of Heritage Festival we had a joint Engineering Heritage event at the Aviation Heritage Centre. Thanks to Peter Radke of the Aviation Heritage Society.
•
We commenced research on a second Engineering Heritage brochure to follow our successful Darwin City brochure. Thanks to all those who are currently doing research.
•
Peter Poole has made good progress on a plaquing nomination for Manton Dam.
•
I have made progress on a plaquing nomination for the steam tug “Young Australian”.
•
Fred Finch conducted one Oral History interview with ”Ding” Bell who was an engineer serving with the Army in Darwin during the Second world War.
•
We used the Engineering Week cocktail party at Government House to make an Award of Merit presentation to Mick Kent for his extensive work on the North Australia Railway and
Women In Engineering This year was a Year of Women in Engineering (WIE). It is almost over but it is just a beginning. It was a busy year locally and on national level. The official launch was in March 2007, The planned boat cruise became a function on the wharf as Cyclone George roared around us! Two Secondary School students and two young women engineers went to Canberra for Women in Science and Engineering Symposium. In May women engineers, CELM members & YWCA purple boot campaign had lunch together. Workshop in July 2007: How to Attract and Retain a Diverse Workforce August saw the Engineering Excellence Awards themed as a Year of Women in Engineering Event, and of course October’sGala Dinner was focusing on Women in Engineering - activities included:
• •
Guest speaker Di Pierce,
• •
Quiz “Wonder Women”
Debate at the gala Dinner in was mature men versus young women. Topic women do it better! Fund-raising for Encore , post breast cancer program with YWCA
the Overland Telegraph. Congratulations Mick, the award was well deserved. Trevor Horman remains the mainstay of the Friends of the North Australia railway. One new project this year is the restoration of the Hudswell Clarke steam locomotive No.928 (see photograph). All the above is a great effort for a small committee made up of very busy people. Owen Peake
Special thanks to Bronwyn and Justine for their involvement and hard work supporting WIE group and organising the successful events. On National level, two very active WIE National Committee representatives, Marlene Kanga and Gunilla Burrowes were both elected to the Council and The Presidents Prize for 2007 was awarded to Women in Engineering National Committee. Stefania Fikus
Engineers Without Borders This year we have been building up support for our Chapter in Darwin. We held several presentations by figurative people, very knowledgeable in International Development. With very low membership numbers in our chapter it leaves us the role of just informing the public of who we are and what we do. As we grow we can establish projects, local and international.
Darwin Chapter, of Engineers Without Borders, has had a developing year with its Fair-trade Coffee, International Development Awareness presentations and the Biogas System Next year we are looking forward to an Aboriginal Art Exhibition touring around Australia and up to Darwin and the project at Lake Evella (NT) will kick off. See the website www.engineerswithoutborders.org for more information and contact Rana Everett on 0416 320 498 if you would like to participate in our activities. Rana Everett
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2. An Inclusive Professional Team Gala Dinner Northern Division celebrated the Year of Women in Engineering with the Annual Gala Dinner at Pee Wee’s on the Point at East Point was on 3rd October. 135 guests from over 14 local and national companies attended the evening to enjoy the cool breeze, good food, great company and continuous entertainment. Di Pearce from Workplace Training Advisory Australia was our guest speaker who shared with the audience her secrets to inspiring and empowering others to be the best that they can be. Prizes were donated by our sponsors, and funds from the nights activities were donated to the YMCA Encore program. A debate was held with the title being “Women do it Better”. The two teams one young females and the other mature males debated the topic with much fun, frivolity and laughter.
Centre for Engineering Leadership and Management CELM has continued to make steady progress in the Northern Division during 2007. After the launch at the 2006 Gala Dinner, awareness of CELM has increased and has drawn interest from both members and non-members. CELM hosted two technical presentations this year. Chris Salisbury, CEO of ERA, gave a presentation on his experiences coming from an initial start in a metallurgy traineeship to his current management position. One of Chris’ key points was that your leadership style has to cater to your audience, and that this style still has to be an honest part of your own character. The National Council visit to Darwin gave us the opportunity to hear about Peter Godfrey’s experience of management, both of subordinates and superiors. He emphasised that to be successful, you must keep sight of the details in your life especially regarding your family. He noted that none of us get work / life balance exactly right, and it is important to remember to “pat the dog”. On a national front, CELM is progressing the development of the EngExec competency framework to handover to the national engineering assessors and industry liaison officers. Once this is done, EngExec will be more readily available to corporate CPD programs as well as to individuals. 2008 will see some more technical presentations on Engineering Leadership and Management. If you have some particular aspect you would like to see developed, please contact myself or the Engineers Australia office with your ideas.
Jason Mackinlay
Young Engineers Australia Northern Division Well, once again, we are at the end of another successful year. As they always say - time flies when you are having fun! We have managed to fit in quite a few events this year including two social networking nights, a Financial Planning Workshop, the annual YEAND Golf Day and Movember. Our social calendar included “Speed Networking” at the Golf Links Hotel, lawn bowls and the infamous YEAND Golf Day. A fun filled time was had by all. I would like to thank our sponsors of the annual YEAND Golf Day. Your generous support helped make the day the success it was. Wayne Woodward presented the financial planning workshop and we hope to provide the next instalment early in the New Year. Recently, we held a Movember team registration event where our members went troppo for men’s health. We managed to get 3 teams out of the total of 27 teams under the National YEA banner. If you can’t grow a mo’ – support one! This year’s AGM will be held in conjunction with the end of November Mo Party. All positions, except the national chair role, are open for elec-
tion this year – including the chair position due to my overseas travel. We also have a new position entitled, Web Administrator to help keep the email and electronic records up to date. I would encourage all to come along and nominate as we need some new blood to keep things fresh, otherwise you will have to put up with the same ideas. That is the YEA motto – New Minds, New Ideas! A big “Thank-you” to all who participated - particularly those who gave up their time to help organise these events. Without their dedication, these events would not be possible. Louise McCormick
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2. An Inclusive Professional Team Colleges Civil College The purpose of the Civil College Board is to:
• • • •
Conduct technical conferences, symposia and meetings Prepare learned and other papers Award prizes
Promote research and development. During the year the College had one face to face Board meeting and one teleconference. Much of the energy of key board members has been focused on the planning for the 5th Civil Engineering Conference for the Asian Region (CECAR) in Sydney in 2010. The Chairman and Secretary General for the Asian Civil Engineering Conference Committee (ACECC) are Civil College Board members – former Chairmen of the College. CECAR is a major civil engineering conference that will provide the opportunity for all engineers to participate, learn and network with their colleagues. At the annual face to face board meeting the representatives from the National Committees of:
• • • • • • •
Coastal & Ocean Engineering Construction Transport Water Engineering Australian Tunnelling Society Geomechanics Society
Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia All presented papers for discussion highlighting the activities in their groups including reports on conferences and learned papers developed in their fields of interest. The Construction Safety Task Force produced a Code of Practice on Safer Construction Practices and the Civil College Board Member on this task force was our new Deputy President Mr Peter Godfrey. The Civil College made the following awards this year:
• Civil Engineer of the Year – Dr Jim Gill • The Warren Medal – Prof. John Wilson and Assoc. Prof. Nelson Lam
going concerns to the board is shortage of skills in mechanical engineering, various issues faced by universities and variations in teaching subjects and the status of laboratories, publications, relationships with other relevant institutions. The first Young Mechanical Engineer of the Year award was won by James Hamilton. The Board visited the Warman Competition Grand Final on Sunday 23rd September. The Board is considering organising Mechanical Engineering Congress for 2-3 days with keynote speakers and a target audience of 200-500 engineers and technologists. Various options are considered. A clear concise theme is needed as well as a long lead time such as 2–3 years. 2010 is suggested as a suitable time for the event. Stefania Fikus
Structural College I have represented Northern Division on the Structural College Board for the past two years. We meet bi-annually and our charter is to promote CPD, organize the ASEC conference and the AJSE journal, nominate Engineers Australia representatives on Australian standards, maintain our website, review college membership, liaison with IStructE and IABSE international associations for structural engineers, review NPER and CPD audits, discuss and set Engineer Australia policy for structural engineering matters of national or regional significance, confer national awards and organize eminent speakers. Many things are discussed at these meetings from engineers’ registration fees to bolt failures. One initiative currently being driven by Northern Division is the setting up of a “local practices guideline” (for want of a better name). I’ll be asking for your contributions to this shortly. There have been a number of other matters raised at these meetings by Northern Division. Mostly they have been matters I have been directly aware of, but few members have asked me to raise specific issues. So there’s the challenge. If you bother to read this, then contact me regarding any issue that I can take up on your behalf at national level. Peter Russell
• Rod McGee Medal – James Daniel. There is another teleconference of the Civil College Board on 7 December 2007. Dave McHugh
Mechanical College Northern Division attempted to formulate a mechanical group in 2007. The group met during the year to discuss possible activities. More active involvement of mechanical engineers and formation of the group will be a focus in 2008. The Mechanical College Board nationally met twice during 2007 and discussed discuss mechanical engineering issues. On-
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2. An Inclusive Professional Team National Committees Water Engineering The issue which has recently been uppermost with the National Committee for Water Engineering is the update of Australian Rainfall and Runoff. Management of the quantity and quality of water in catchment systems is a complex task which has become increasingly important to the community over the last few decades. This community awareness has increased the need for managers of these systems to obtain information relevant to the response of the systems invested in their control. Two methodologies by which the desired system information can be obtained are, firstly, through monitoring of the system, and, secondly, by mathematical simulation through application of catchment modelling systems. Both of these approaches are important and, therefore, the revision of Australian Rainfall and Runoff has incorporated discussion of both approaches. The decision to run the Hydraulics Conference in Darwin in September 2008 has been taken. This will be the last in the series as, in future, it will be incorporated in the Hydrology and Water resources Symposium series. Eric Valentine will chair the organising committee and welcomes offers of support. Eric Valentine
Coastal & Ocean Engineering The National Committee for Coastal and Ocean Engineering was very pleased with the success of the Coast and Ports 2007 conference held in Melbourne in July. It was noted that the tech-
nical standard of the papers was very high. A major effort has been made in the last year to publish the entire series of conference papers from this series going back 26 years. This is available from CD from Engineers Australia. The Committee has been invited to make a submission to the College Board’s Education Review. Members of both the National Committees for Water Engineering and for Coastal and Ocean Engineering have expressed concern over the lack of suitable specialist training and, in particular specialist post-graduate training in Water and Coastal Engineering. There has been considerable interest in a nationally coordinated multi-institutional Coursework Masters program that can provide distance education possibilities for students from all around the country. Eric Valentine
Transport In late 2006 the Northern Division accepted membership of EA’s National Committee on Transport Engineering (NCTR). The committee considers all aspects of Transport Engineering. This year Council accepted a suite of papers prepared by NCTR as policy. This covered Road Safety, Changing Travel Behaviour and some aspects of Transport Infrastructure. As part of the Eminent Speaker Program for this year, NCTR funded and facilitated a visit by Ken Ogden who spoke on the topical issue of road safety. Peter Hagan
3.0 Youth Appeal Sunchase Sunchase made a significant step forward in 2007 by expanding from competitions in Alice Springs to include Darwin, making it a true Territory event. Alice ran three categories, model boats, kit cars and larger custom built cars, while Darwin ran a very successful Kit Car challenge. The Alice Springs event was held in September and the Darwin event was held in October to coincide with the start of the World Solar Challenge. Three boat teams and one car entry then progressed to the Nationals Championships held in Adelaide in Victoria Square, coinciding with the finish of the World Solar Challenge on 20th and 21st October Darcey Page from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College— Sadadeen Campus won the encouragement Award in the cars and the Pony Girl team from Araluen Christian School won the encouragement Award in the Boat Category Sponsors included Power and Water, Desert Knowledge Aus-
tralia, Engineers Australia Northern Division and Opus Qantec McWilliam. Thanks and special mention goes to volunteer Jason Dunn who has been a volunteer for several years. He is moving on to greener pastures and won’t be around to assist in 2008. Steve Sawyer
EngQuest On Tuesday the 20th of June approximately 100 primary students gathered at Charles Darwin University to demonstrate the projects they had worked on through the EngQuest Program. This year we had students from Junior and Upper levels of Primary schools in the Darwin, Palmerston and rural areas. The staff from the participating schools applauded the program and were enthusiastic about the learning outcomes gained by their students. Our thanks go to our judges Grieg Warriner from NT Minerals Council, Mark Thiele from Charles Darwin University and Natalie Jenkins from the Museum and Art Gallery NT, volunteer Shameemah Salahudeen and Charles Darwin University for the use of their basketball court for judging day.
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3.0 Youth Appeal Science & Engineering Challenge 2007 was the first year that Northern Division has brought the Science and Engineering Challenge to the Northern Territory. The event was held in both Alice Springs and Darwin at the Charles Darwin University campuses and Centralian Senior College. Feedback from teachers, students and volunteers was that it was an outstanding success and could it happen again next year. Activities included creating a hovercraft, building a mars landscape vehicle, lighting a city in the most economic manner and bridge building among other things. Winners of the competition were, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College in Alice Springs and Casuarina Senior College in Darwin.
The overall scores were very competitive nationally and perhaps next year there will be an opportunity to compete at this level. Our thanks goes to Rotary Club of Darwin North,
Charles Darwin University, DEET and DEST for their financial support and assistance in running these two events.
4. Chartered Status This year the division held workshops in Darwin and Gove for Chartered Professional Engineer. With the assistance of John McLoughlin our assessor who was based in Perth we conducted three new professional interview from our offices. This was the beginning of the Northern Division being able to provide a more local involvement in our members CPEng process. John McLoughlin has resigned from Engineers Australia. We would like to acknowledge his efforts in assisting our members in obtaining CPEng over the last two years and wish him well with his future ventures.
Congratulations to the following members on achieving Chartered Status during the year. Max Hodas Kevin Behrens Dale Ewart Jack Martins Well done everyone and keep those applications coming.
5. Continuing Professional Development Division Activities Month
Topic
Month
Topic
March
Meet and Greet Night – Young Engineers
August
May
Sunset Cruise and Official Launch of the Year of Women in Engineering
May
Sponsors Thank You Cocktail Party
May
Camp Oven Dinner Alice Springs
May
National Council Meeting—Darwin
May
National Presidents Visit – Alice Springs & Darwin
May
Students Thesis Presentations
May
Charles Darwin University Prize Giving
June
Engquest
October
August
2007 Engineering Excellence Awards Charles Darwin University
October
Science & Engineering Challenge—Alice Springs & Darwin Young Engineers Golf Day Sunchase Model Solar Car NT Championship Alice Springs Launch of Engineering Week; Government House Cocktail Function Gala Dinner Guest Speaker – Di Pearce Australia Workplace Advisory Training Engineers Australia & Charles Darwin University Careers Expo Sunchase Model Solar Car NT Championship Darwin Charles Darwin University Students Thesis Presentations
August Sept Sept October October
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5. Continuing Professional Development Technical Sessions/Seminars/Site Visits Month
Topic
Speaker
February
CPEng Information Session (2) Darwin
John McLoughlin
February
All You Need To Know To Develop Your Career (2) Darwin
John McLoughlin
February
Northern Territory Economic Development
Jenny Malone/Ian Hughes
February
Lightning Protection Workshop
Rohit Narayan
March
Waterfront site visit
Macmahon Contractors Pty Ltd
March
Next Generation Composite Bridges
Louise McCormick
March
CELM Breakfast
Chris Salisbury ERA
May
Women In Engineering Luncheon
Christine Fletcher
May
Peter Godfrey FIEAust CPEng CELM Breakfast
Peter Godfrey
May
What Is Failure And Why Do Failures Occur
John Atkinson
June
Current Economic Conditions
Miriam Martin/Johann LaBrooy
July
Managing Diversity Workshop
Duncan Smith
July
Concrete Institute of Australia Residential, Commercial & Industrial Floor Design Treatments
July
1 CER 1st Reconstruction Task Force – Eight Months in Afghanistan
Lt Col Mick Ryan
July
Tangguh LNG Project (Jakarta)
Trevor Symes & Mutiara Oendang
August
Bali Bombing 2002 –Follow up and Investigation (Jakarta)
Leigh Dixon
August
Northern Territory Planning Act
Andrea Videion
August
Geotechnical Solutions
Austress Menard
August
2006 Young Engineer of the Year
Andrew Botros
August
Groundwater Engineering for the Mining Industry
Iain Hair
September
Is it Worth the Risk (Jakarta)
Andrew Keith
October
Stramit Ex-facta
Brian Stranborough
November
Engineers Australia Engineering Collection Online
Elena Vvedenskaia
November
Structural College Eminent Speaker
John Woodside
November
Road Safety: What’s Next? - Transport Committee
Dr Ken Ogden
6. International Reach & Influence Our Indonesian colleages have been very busy this year. 2007 saw Northern Division members in Indonesia partner with the Institute of Civil Engineers, UK members in Jakarta.
Although the groups may be small they have meet together on three occasions to conduct Continuing Professional Development sessions.
7. Internal Communications Northern Division completed it’s target for the year of 6 bi monthly newsletter and an annual report. November saw the implementation of a new photocopier to do the printing and the
folding of the newsletter, and the engagement of a mailing house means that we have more flexibility in producing the newsletters with lower costs.
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8. A Capable Organisation 2007 Committee Position
Name
Position
Name
President/Engineering Heritage Australia/ Heritage Committee ND Duty President/Transport Committee
Owen Peake
Mechanical College/Women in Eng
Stefania Fikus
Peter Hagan
Young Engineers National Northern Division
Past President/Civil College/Congress Rep
Dave McHugh
Committee Member
Peter Tonkin
Centre for Engineering Leadership & Management Engineering Technologist Rep Engineering Associate Rep Ocean & Coastal Committee/Water Engineering Committee Engineers Without Borders/CDU Student Rep Alice Springs Rep Nhulunbuy Rep
Louise McCormick Jason Mackinlay Len Chappell Robert Calaby Eric Valentine
Committee Member
Kevan Blake
Committee Member
Jaya Koirala
Committee Member
Sumesh Dhir
Committee Member
Daniel Bree
Committee Member
Mark Skinner
Structural College
Peter Russell
Rana Everett Steve Sawyer Cameron Mcdiarmid
Congress Report Peter Hagan, David McHugh and Bronwyn Russell attended the November meeting of Congress, the National Engineering Awards and Engineers Australia AGM. The major issue raised at Congress was the reducing pool of suitably qualified matriculants, the progress addressing the teaching of mathematics and physics in schools and to better marketing of engineering as a career option. Many of the elements needed have been identified in a marketing strategy nearing completion for implementation in 2008. The Year of Women in Engineering has been a great success, which is to be built on in future years. The report from the National Committee is extremely good. Plans are well underway for the Year of the Engineering Team for 2008. This should provide a good basis for being more inclusive of Engineering Technologists and Associates. Congress endorsed Council decisions and the Council for next year. Air Vice Marshall Julie Hammer is National President and Peter Godfrey is National Deputy President for 2008. The purpose of the National Congress is to provide an annual forum for elected representatives of divisions, colleges, learned societies and special interest groups to: • Elect representatives to the National Council – the Board of Directors for Engineers Australia. • Elect the National Deputy President who becomes the next National President of Engineers Australia • Consider and accept reports from Council Members • Propose and approve motions that give directions to Council Members on policy and operational issues of Engineers Australia. • Note the presentation on the Annual Report and Annual Financial Statements. • Attend the Annual General Meeting of Engineers Australia to formally approve the elected representatives and acceptance of the Annual Report and the Annual Financial Statements.
Also during the Congress Meeting the following papers were presented: • Review of Representation on the National Congress – Barry Tonkin and Rupert Grayston. • Marketing Review Findings – Jamie Penrose and Beaton Consulting. • Complaints against members – Julie Hammer • Disciplinary Regulations – Julie Hammer and Rupert Grayston. • ARC Linkage Project “The identification and Development of Strategies to Increase Engineering Enrollments”. • Committees of Council Reports: • Task Force – Strategic Marketing Review – Rebecca Russell • Engineering Practice and CPD – Peter Godfrey. • Strategic Communications Working Group – Julie Hammer. • Public Role and Professional Standing – Julie Hammer • 2008 – The Year of the Engineering Team – Julie Hammer • Sustainability – Terence Jeyaretnam • CPD Steering Committee – Peter Godfrey. • Proposed Engineering Oath – Rebecca Russell. • Office Bearer & Volunteer Resources – Rupert Grayston • Electronic Library Martin Dwyer and Elena Vvedenskaia. Dave McHugh and Peter Hagan
Volunteers Northern division thrives and survives on the efforts of its volunteers. The staff appreciates the time that our many volunteers contribute to division activities.
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Thank you and we look forward to working with you next year. Bronwyn and Justine