Empire Times 50.8 by FUSA Association

EMPIRE TIMES Vol 50 Issue 8

ADVENTURE POETRY | CREATIVE PIECES | TRAVEL | HOROSCOPES POLTICAL CORRESPONDANCE| INTERVIEWS 1

2 Photo By Lachlan White

Art By Jeremiah MorningStar

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY Nina Marni (translation: hello, how are you?). Empire Times would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands in which the editors, contributors and readers live, and honour elders past, present and emerging. Bedford Park is a significant site in the complex Dreaming of the Kaurna ancestor Tjilbruke. We write on behalf of the students and faculty on this land, First Nations, Non-Indigenous and Immigrant, who work and learn here. Empire Times is edited and distributed on the traditional lands of the Arrernte, Dagoman, First Nations of the South East, First Peoples of the River Murray and Mallee region, Jawoyn, Kaurna, Larrakia, Ngadjuri, Ngarrindjeri, Ramindjeri, Warumungu, Wardaman and Yolngu people. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded, and that this land is stolen.

Artist Statement: Jeremiah MorningStar was born into the Kamilaroi tribal grounds & brought up in the Wiradjuri tribal grounds and has lived in the Kaurna tribal grounds for over 25yrs now. My mother taught me how to connect with spirit to bring forward their inspirations. When I draw, it’s channeled work and it’s supposed to mean what ever the viewer takes from it. I’ve had people from all different cultures find their native symbols within my works which to me brings a cultural unity via my works. 3

Contents PA G E

PA G E

Contents Page

Fairwell from the 2023 Editors

07 Clubs

Horoscopes

PA G E

Left, Right, Centre

Seperating the Art from the Artist

‘Wait! What?’ Column

By Evangelia Karageorgos

By Margot Albrecht

PA G E

Ancient Olmec Artefact Site By Brad Wright

The Three B.E.A.R.s

Encore

By Gerogia Nolan

By Oliver Land

By Claire Lush

Interview with Jaqui Storey: Founder of Little Droppings Conducted by Georgia Nolan

PA G E

Poetry

Life’s Little Adventures

By Conor Brown

By Katie Stedman

PA G E

Tabletop Times with Oliver Land

Literary Role Playing Games

South Australia’s Limestone Coast

By Midchell Daykin

By Katia Rawlings

PA G E

How do you sell mental health? AdMental

My Adventure to Thailand

Student Advocacy

Back Cover

ISSUE 8 EDITORS Katia Rawlings Katie Stedman Rachelle Summers ASSOCIATE EDITOR Georgia Nolan WRITERS Admental Claire Lush Conor Brown Evangelia Karagerogos Georgia Nolan Katia Rawlings Katie Stedman Margot Albrecht Midchell Daykin Oliver Land

Find Flynn the Mallard Duck and win! Hidden on one of the pages in this magazine you will find Flynn. Good louck finding him! (The above image of Flynn is not the one you need to find. This is just something fun to do during this issue and no prizes are being awarded if he is found.)

LRC Maddy Tapley John Kelly Lachlan White COVER ARTIST Saiyuri Pillay ARTISTS Jeremiah MorningStar Lachlan White Brad Wright

WHAT IS ET? Empire Times is a publication of the Flinders University Student Association (FUSA). It is your student magazine. The opinions expressed within are not necessarily those of the editors, Flinders University or FUSA. Reasonable care is taken to ensure articles are accurate at the time of publication.

Farewell from the 2023 Editors Some final words... Ka t i a

Ra ch elle

Thank you to all our readers for joining us on this amazing adventure that the last 12 months has been.

What an adventure this has been! Being one of the editors for Empire Times has definitely been a challenge at times but I’ve loved every stress filled second.

We hope that you have had as much fun as we have and hope that you might have learnt a little something from us this year as well. We couldn’t have done any of this without our readers and contributors so we appreciate everything that you have all done to get us this far. Be kind to the new editors as they begin their term and we hope that they recieve the kind of feedback that we have. Katia Xx

I hope you’ve enjoyed what we’ve done with the magazine this year and I can’t wait to see how it eveolves with the new 2024 editors. All the best, Rachelle

Ka t i e

Georg ia

Well, after 12 months and 8 issues, our term as editors for Empire Times has come to an end.

Being an Editor for Empire Times has been one of the greatest opportunities in my life.

It’s been a year full of steep learning curves and challenges to overcome, but also lots of growth and opportunities we’ve bonded over as a team.

The day Katie, Rachelle, Katia and I decided to take a leap of faith and nominate ourselves was the beginning of a wonderful journey.

It’s been an incredible experience to be able to create these magazine issues, to develop new skills, share our work and your work, and create something with amazing people.

At times it was a rocky one—we felt like we were in the dark more than once—but through our teamwork and friendship, we overcame the worst.

By reading Empire Times this year, I hope you’ve been able to think deeply about some of the topics, learn something new, take time to relax and appreciate the talent of the artists and contributors. A huge thank you to anyone who’s contributed and to our loyal readers—we couldn’t do this without you. This has been an experience I’ll never forget and will always be grateful for. Katie x

I’ve learnt so much and have grown with Katia, Katie and Georgia as we tried to navigate this space to the best of our ability.

It’s gonna be hard to let go of our baby (*the magazine*), but exciting to see Empire Times’ legacy evolve. Thanks to my family and friends for supporting me, and of course, our subbies and contributors—love you all!

Whether you’re interested in films, caving or board games, we’ve got something for everyone! Connect with like-minded people, develop your professional skills, build your resume or just have fun and make new friends. We have a variety of clubs including: •

Community clubs such as the Queer Collective, Students with Disabilities Association and Mature Age Students Collective

•

Academic clubs such as the Business Students’ Association, Psychology Students’ Association and Academic Science Club

•

Cultural clubs such as the Hellenic Association, Indian Student Association and Indonesian Students Association

• •

With over 80 different clubs to join, there are plentyinterest of ways for you tosuch get involved in Performing Arts Society, Special clubs as the uni life at Flinders! FUSA’s clubs and student Tabletop ‘Und Roleplaying Enthusiasts and Film Society communities are a great way to make friends, develop your professional skills, stay involved with an oldand hobby or try something new. such as the Health and Human Political social justice clubs

Rights Club, Sustainability and Environment Club and Socialist Collectively, FUSA clubs host over 1000 Alternative Club events each year run by over 500 student volunteers.

So why wait? a clubyou? today and start making the most of Don’t see a clubJoin that interests Start your own! We support students in creating and your time at Flinders! leading new clubs.

HORO SCOP ES FOR D ECEM B E R

Ar ies

Ta u r u s

Ge m i n i

What a good month to end on! This month seems to give you some moderate results of success with your career. Whether that come in the form of finally getting Christmas day off this year (you really should stop working so hard), passing those exams you weren’t so sure you passed, or getting up the nerve to finally report your job for gross managerial neglect.

Guess what? It’s that time of year again when the sun is in Sagittarius! And for you my dear Taurus, and unlike our Sagittarius friends, for you, this season is a time of reconciliation and closure. Ditch those so-called friends who are always ditching you with their flimsy excuses. Do some summer clearing and clear up any miscommunication with your family—you’re going to see an awful lot of them these holidays so might as well make it as bearable as possible.

Okay Gemini’s, let’s do this. Towards the end of the year, Mercury will go into retrograge, starting in Sagittarius and moving into Capricorn, but don’t worry your pretty heads over it, here are some helpful things not to do! Mercury retrograde is a breeding ground for misunderstandings. Maybe put a pin in your oh so very helpful advice giving until after the summer hols where your relationships should still be intact instead of riddled with holes of resentment.

Cancer

Le o

V i rgo

Cancer! Oh my lovelies how’re we doing? This month we’re going to have to stretch out a skill I don’t think you’ve used in a while… Flexibility. As the holiday season really starts to ramp up, your schedules and routines are going to fly out the window, and it’s up to you whether you can learn to go with the flow or be a stick in some cement. I could tell you now which choice will lead to less frustration and tears these holidays, but I think I’ll let you figure this one out yourself.

Leo, it’s finally happening! You’ve been agonising over this for months. You’ve stayed up late, watching that accursed cursor blink over and over and over again with no words magically appearing on the page. But this is your month, I foresee breakthroughs and sessions of success, don’t give up on what you’re working on, you’ve almost got it!

Virgo, it’s December, and you are finally going to be able to spend some time with your loved ones. I know how much you treasure them, and I can feel the loving and cherishing memories that you are going to make this month. It’s been a rough year, but you’ve made it through. Be proud of what you’ve achieved and then don’t think about it anymore. Have some fun.

Libra

Sco r p i o

Sa gi tt a r i u s

Having a good month Libras? I bet you are! Why? The Universe has blessed you. If you’re asking yourself, why is the Universe always against me?, then stop—it not only hurts the Universe’s feelings, but it’s also wrong. This month, you’ll find a 5-dollar note in your old coat pockets, have a stranger comment on how fire your outfit is, park in a restricted zone and not get a fine (not a promise), successfully guess an acquaintance’s name right! Sounds boring, but life is all about the little wins, right?

Hi Scorpions! That’s just what you are, isn’t it? Small, but deadly. I would say deceptively cute, but scorpions aren’t exactly nice to look at. No offence. This month you’ll get away with a lot. People don’t wanna say no to you (probably because they think you’re goth and will hex them if they don’t do your bidding). Enjoy your powers of persuasion, goths, but don’t dabble in the dark arts.

Half horse, half human. Half steadfast, half silly. Let me elaborate. While Scorpios will get away with anything this month, you Saggitarians won’t! Don’t get into trouble. I detect fines, arrests, very annoyed family members, arson—just, whatever you’re thinking, don’t do it. Also, someone’s gonna prank you this month and leave you fuming!!! (It’s probably a Scorpio).

Capricor n

Aquarius

P i s ce s

It pains me to always ask this of you, but... sunblock on and go for a walk! That seemingly impossible problem that’s been brewing in your head has a solution, but it’ll pop up when you release yourself from the chains of a sedentary lifestyle. And when I say ‘pop up’, I mean literally! Say you’re a physics student and you’re trying to figure out a problem. Your physics professor will literally pop up from the undergrowth (think WhacA-Mole) and give you the answer—just don’t concuss them.

Give your fur baby some extra love this month, Aquarians. If you don’t have one, go shower your friends’ pets with love and affection. Your animals love you and wish they could stand on two legs like a ‘hooman’ and experience life with you. Once they learn about grocery shopping and rental prices, however, they might want their old life back. Anyway, give them their favourite snack, or do their favourite activity with them. Just don’t ignore their cute, watery eyes, otherwise I will steal them for myself.

Sounds like Pisces are having issues with people they live with this month. Whether it be family or housemates, you guys are having a hard time living under the same roof. You need to come to a compromise, one that doesn’t leave a person out in the cold (or boiling hot, as it is in SA right now). I suggest a Survivor-esque elimination round! Everyone votes for the least favourite resident—revealed in an envelope at the end. That person then has to do all the house chores for a month! 9

Left, Right, Centre. 1. According to the Gonski school funding review, Australian public schools are underfunded by $6.6 billion. Additionally, 98% of private schools are funded above the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), whereas more than 98% of public schools are funded below it. How should the government respond to this disparity?

2. Coles’ and Woolworths’ profits have increased amidst Australia’s cost of living crisis. Coles’ profits have increased by 6.1 percent compared to last year, and Woolworths’ by 4.6 percent. The supermarkets claim this has to do with customers eating out less, however, some customers believe they are taking advantage of inflation. What Is your stance?

3. In August, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce was grilled for refusing to refund over 500,000 Australians during the pandemic, despite the company holding over $370 million in flight credits. What preventative action can be taken to ensure this doesn’t happen in the future?

***DISCLAIMER: YOUNG LIBERALS AND LABOR LEFT DID NOT RESPOND.

LEFT Young Greens 1. According to the Gonski school funding review, Australian public schools are underfunded by $6.6 billion. Additionally, 98% of private schools are funded above the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), whereas more than 98% of public schools are funded below it. How should the government respond to this disparity? Private schools want to exist outside of the public, create environments of exclusivity, institutionalise religions, and privatise the concept of prestige. Public schools are a public good established to serve the totality of our youth. One of those sentiments deserves funding, the other warrants internal investigations year-round. 2. Coles’ and Woolworths’ profits have increased amidst Australia’s cost of living crisis. Coles’ profits have increased by 6.1 percent compared to last year, and Woolworths’ by 4.6 percent. The supermarkets claim this has to do with customers eating out less, however, some customers believe they are taking advantage of inflation. What Is your stance? Coles is a conglomerate and Woolworths is but one arm of a multinational retail and finance company. Both had been earning billions, all expenses told, even during covid’s peaks. General rule if they have shareholders, they don’t need sympathy. It is not a question of whether they are gouging and being deceitful but a question of how much damage it’ll do. The fact that they’ve gone with such a lazy lie indicates that they aren’t even afraid of repercussions and the scarier aspect is that they might be right to be unafraid. There is no meaningful harm that we can legally inflict on either company that might affect their monopoly over our food, nor their ability to choke us with it. 3. In August, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce was grilled for refusing to refund over 500,000 Australians during the pandemic, despite the company holding over $370 million in flight credits. What preventative action can be taken to ensure this doesn’t happen in the future? Prosecute CEOs faster and with extreme prejudice. Add as many variables as you like, refusing to refund services that were not rendered, is theft. Refusing to refund services that were not rendered 500,000 10

times is 500,000 instances of theft. If we have space for protestors, petty criminals, and innocent people in jail, we have space for CEOs.

Left Action 1. Instead of elite private schools, education should be publicly funded, and open to all. Its not a surprise that private schools are bloated with funding. The schooling system exists for the purpose of reproducing and reinforcing the hierarchy of class. In public schools as well as learning skills for work likes reading comprehension, maths and critical problem solving, working class kids are taught to accept authority. You’re dictated by a bell, and designated breaks. ]. In elite private schools however, the future CEOs, bank managers and politicians mingle with their peers and “learn to lead”. Once grown up, these elites repay these institutions with lavish donations and scholarships. The politicians who divert public funding into the pockets of private schools are simply doing the same thing, except with taxpayer money. In doing so they ensure that their own children will be given the same privileges as them while working class kids get crumbling classrooms, and bare-minimum education In order to ensure this money is seen more equally by all children, there should be no more private schools. If the rich and powerful want to put their, or other peoples money into their children’s education, everyone should receive the benefits, not just the chosen few.

2. This is a sick joke.. Thanks to the price of groceries increasing, 7.5% in the last year, eating in costs

just as much as going out. Why wont Coles and Woolies share their profits with the workers? Their profits have shot up, but their employees’ wages are stagnating, accross the board. The chains have claimed that they ‘have’ to raise prices, but this belies the fact that their profit margins well exceed any increased financial costs. They are absolutley taking advantage of inflation, and pushing any financial cost onto ordinary people. We need price caps! This is profiteering! They are wringing every last cent they can from turning basic necessities, into cashflow, that goes for housing too. Price caps don’t fall from the sky though. Strikes get the goods. Last month Inghams workers went on strike. They fought against back breaking work, long hours, for little pay. Many of them could barely afford anything else than utilities and food on full time pay!. They held out for a week, and won. Students need to be part of this fight by supporting striking workers, but most importantly, placing the blame sqaurely on capitalism, and builidng the struggle against the whole system. 3. Well, what more could you expect from the same company that illegally sacked over a thousand ground crew workers in order to recoup losses from the pandemic? They saved up to a $100 million by outsourcing these jobs. It also had the added bonus of disrupting the collective bargaining process of the union. And to top it off, Quantas got a $2.7 billion check from the government to keep it afloat when air travel shut down. Qantas must be nationalised by the government. Its not impossible either. After the second world war Qantas was owned by the federal government until it was privatised by the Keating Labor government in 1992. Since then, there have been scandals just like this of tax payer bailouts, and layoffs. All for the sake of keeping it profitable for shareholders. But its not some personal fault of Alan Joyce that he reckoned he could get away with pulling one over on his workers and customers and then resign with a sweet check (he received over $80 million over the last ten years). Its the logic of capitalism. Ultimately to solve problems like this its the system that must be abolished, but we can make a start by running these services as a public good by the federal government and not the money making playground of corporate millionaires.

CENTRE Labor Unity 1. Yes, public schools should be funded properly, every Australian has the right to quality education, no matter their socioeconomic background. We have seen a decade of a Liberal’s No-alition government that didn’t see any big improvements for schools, instead we have seen backward steps for students with private schools receiving twice as much taxpayer dollars as public schools. The Albanese Labor Government has delivered better funding already this year with a big yardstick in this sector since Gonski reforms. There’s still a big gap between public schools and private schools, the Albanese Labor Government is currently working on a review of the education system before setting a new national school’s reform agreement in 2024, and the Albanese Labor Government has committed to get every school to 100% of its Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), the fair funding level proposed under the Gonski. 2. It’s evil. They’re taking advantage of not only their customers, but they’re also taking advantage of their workers. We aren’t seeing them increase pay and provide better working conditions for their employees. Instead, they are robbing them of fair wages and conditions while this money is going into the pockets of executives. Australians are finding it hard enough to pay their bills and put food on the table in this cost-of-living crisis. No businesses shouldn’t be taking advantage of the situation. We have seen big businesses become profitable during a time when people are struggling, making excuses for their evil behaviour. 3. Let’s start with capping Qantas executive pay packets. Qantas has the money to refund – the company has not paid their taxes in 15 years under the leadership of Alan Joyce. It is a profitable time for airline companies, with Qantas making $1.7 billion in the second half of 2022. During the pandemic, they received $2.7 billion from the government and have stated they have no intention of paying that taxpayer money back to consumers. At that rate, Qantas is being paid like a government-owned company, but operating like what it is - a for-profit stock market company. The Albanese Labor Government should put forward a bill in parliament to protect consumers and have the airlines refund consumers correctly to prevent this. However, this bill would most likely to be voted down by the party of big business, the Liberal party and their No-alition. Qantas is putting customers’ safety at risk by underpaying and overworking their employees. We know that Qantas has continually underpaid their workers, and during the pandemic, sacked thousands of hard-working Australians and illegally outsourced 1,700 ground workers. The amazing work in fighting for workers and consumers from Labor Senator Glenn Sterle campaigning alongside Transport Workers Union (TWU) on their campaign in this sector. The Albanese government has made several commitments to a safer and fairer transport industry, they should continue to deliver on their commitments not only for the airline industry but all transport industries to make it safer for workers and passengers. Flinders Labor Unity Caucus supports the TWU’s ongoing fight for Qantas workers and their current campaign for safe and secure skies by lifting standards of holding airports and airlines to account.

Separating the Art from the Artist. Words by Evangelia Karageorgos

or many of us, the day we discovered an

in his family. However, we can see in letters

artist that we connected with, loved, and

he wrote to his friends that as he got older, he

enjoyed was an important day. But now

became less racist. He grew less fearful as he

we also sit on edge, waiting and wondering how

learned things.

long it will be before someone wants to cancel them. Before someone finds some dirt on them

So, does the fact that as he got older, he learned

(new or old). And we are then left to decide, can

to fear less, and this made him less racist

we separate the art we love from the artist?

make a difference? Or do we still hold him accountable for his actions as a younger man

This question surfaces every time another artist,

even though he changed?

past or present, is called out for any action they take, or any belief or opinion they voice. And

Let’s now look at Lewis Carroll, also an author,

everyone has different feelings about it. The

(1832-1898) and most well-known for Alice’s

fact is, when we learn anything new good or bad

Adventures in Wonderland. Carroll has a highly

about an artist, it changes the way we interpret

debated reputation for his interest in children.

their work.

We know he had an interest in young ladies, and we know he was into photography. And that

So, we ask ourselves, can we, in good

of the remaining photos found there are many

conscience, continue to read, listen watch or

images of young girls. However, there is no

admire the art of an artist we know has been

conclusive evidence or information that proves

accused of something problematic? Is their

anything illegal or illicit took place.

contribution to our culture or society enough to outweigh this thing or action? Is it okay for us to love an artist’s work who we now know is problematic in their personal life or beliefs? Especially if their work resonates with us or helped us at a time in our lives when we needed

So, with no conclusive evidence, and by not judging his century’s beliefs by our own modern-day beliefs and standards, can we hold him accountable for unproven actions?

it.

Where is the line? And who draws that line?

Now let’s consider someone still alive. Orson Scott Card is also an author (1951-) known for his science fiction writing, particularly Ender’s Game. He has anti-homosexual beliefs, beliefs

The author H.P Lovecraft (1924-1937) is most

that he has written, had published, and spoken

well-known for his weird fantasy, science, and

about publicly for years. His opinions stem from

horror fiction writing. And best known for his

his Morman beliefs and his connection with the

Cthulhu mythos. But did you also know he was

LDS Church.

racist? His racism stemmed from his fear of

the unknown and from trauma. Fear was a big

So, does the fact that his beliefs come from

part of Lovecraft’s life, he grew up fearing many

his religion and resonate with many inside

things specifically mental illness, because it was

that religion make any difference? Can we still

appreciate his work?

about them and their discoveries? How do you feel about us using their discoveries? Can you

We are likely all familiar with J.K Rowling,

separate the scientist from their discovery?

(1965-) the author of the very popular Harry

If you answered yes to being able to separate a

Potter books. Books that have been called the

scientist from their discoveries, even with clear

series that got a generation of kids reading. In

problematic behaviours, but you said no to

the last 4 years, Rowling has faced controversy

being able to separate an artist from their art.

and criticism after she made public statements

Tell me, what’s the difference? Why is one more

about her views on gender and sex. She has had

acceptable than the other?

many speak out against her and many speak out in support of her, clearly dividing people. So, with her Harry Potter series having such a big impact on our culture, can we separate Rowling from her books so more kids can enjoy the magic? And so, we can also continue to

Who is affected if we continue to love or appreciate the art of a problematic artist? Who is affected if their work remains accessible? By contrast, who is affected if their work is no longer part of our cultural history?

enjoy them?

What is an acceptable reason to separate the art from the artist? What is an acceptable reason to excuse someone’s action or belief?

I think every case is different and there are many things to consider, such as the nature of the offence, the seriousness of it and when it occurred. Whether the work promotes the offence or reminds people of the offence. Whether the artist is dead or alive, or whether

Okay so now let me ask, what’s the difference

they are profiting from their work. And whether

between a problematic artist whom we love and

they collaborated with someone else.

a problematic scientist who participated in an important discovery or theory?

As I see it, being able to separate the art from the artist is a very personal decision, and it

James Watson helped discover the double

is not something anyone can tell you how

helix structure of DNA, he was pro-eugenics,

you should feel about. These are all nuanced

a sexist and a racist. Alexander Graham Bell,

situations, and we are all entitled to draw

the inventor of the telephone, was also pro-

our own lines in the sand. However, it is also

eugenics, racist and anti-sign language. Edwin

important to be aware of the problems of an

Schrodinger, most famously known for his cat-

artist and not hide from them. For me, with

in-the-box thought experiment, was horrible

the works I loved, before I knew an artist was

to the women and girls in his life, and unlike

problematic, I am going to keep loving and

Carroll had a documented problematic interest

enjoying them. And I don’t think that makes me

in young girls.

a bad person.

Knowing these things, how do you now feel

But you’re free to disagree. 15

Edinburgh: A City of Twists and Turns “Wait! What?” Margot Albrecht’s Column I first visited Edinburgh as a backpacker in 1999. Back then I was oblivious to the festival city’s homeless. In the words of The-Artist-FormallyKnown-As-Prince, I did indeed “party like it’s 1999”. Flashforward to 2013. It’s my second time in Edinburgh. I’m now a mother, clear-eyed, alert, tightly holding the small hands of my two kids, gently manoeuvring them around the endemic bundles of cardboard and sleeping bags that are home to Edinburgh’s street dwellers.

Source: Andrew Milligan/PA Images Gone are the days of dubious backpacker bunkbeds and communal bathrooms. Our hotel is luxurious by comparison. Located a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile—the infamous cobblestoned thoroughfare that snakes up to Edinburgh Castle—the hotel is literally built upon Edinburgh’s Old Town; a centuries old subterranean world where people were forced to live and work in darkness and filth as homelessness was a punishable crime. Several floors up, our apartment overlooks a narrow walk-bridge. I’m taking in the view—my husband is on an errand—I suddenly spot a woman, weaving 16

her way across the walk-bridge. I recognise her from Tesco Express earlier that day. She’d been ahead of us in the checkout queue—dishevelled, unsteady, her speech slurred—and I’d watched in disbelief as the guy behind the counter sold her a bottle of vodka. She’d staggered past us, mumbling to herself. She was vulnerable and unwell. I mentioned my concern to the cashier, but he just shrugged; it wasn’t his job to play nursemaid to every damaged soul that crossed Tesco’s threshold. Now, this same woman is swigging vodka straight from the bottle. Then a young, hoodie-clad couple are on the walk-bridge. They clock the woman’s condition. The guy pulls up his hood and, while his girlfriend stands lookout, he grabs the woman’s handbag. The bottle smashes as the woman tries to hang on to her handbag. She doesn’t stand a chance. The guy yanks it from her grip. She falls, hard, onto the glassstrewn concrete. She’s lying motionless. I watch, helpless, as the woman’s attackers run off. I snatch up the apartment telephone but I’m panicking. I can’t get an outside line and I don’t know Scotland’s emergency services number. I ride the lift to Reception. All I can think about is this poor woman, alone and injured. The Receptionist is French. We struggle to communicate but she gets the gist, dials emergency services and hands the phone to me. However, I wear hearing aids; there’s a sweetspot where you position the earpiece to minimise screeching feedback, but I can’t bloody find it. I can’t hear the emergency operator. Frustrated, I pass the phone back. After a

muddled three-way conversation, the message gets through. Help is on its way. The mugging has deeply upset me, but we’ve promised the kids we’d visit Edinburgh Castle. We’re cutting through an alley to the Royal Mile when I spot a homeless guy rummaging through a handbag, shoving stuff into his pockets. This isn’t just any handbag. It’s THE handbag from the mugging. I figure it’s been stripped and ditched; this guy is just an opportunist. I alert my husband, who’s behind me with our kids. I confront Homeless-Guy and tell him the handbag’s backstory. Homeless-Guy says he was searching the bag for ID and was going to hand it in to the police. We both know it’s a crock. But the game is on. I tell him the police are already on their way to my hotel and suggest we hand it in together. In a “what-the-hell-am-I-doing” tone, he agrees. I turn around, expecting to see my husband, but he and the kids have gone. Wait! What?

and this guy, who might be young enough to be my son but it’s hard to tell from his drug-ravaged skin, riddled with picked-over scabs. While I’m making breezy small talk, the unspoken truth hangs heavy: Homeless-Guy knows that I know he’s lying and I know, he knows, I know he’s lying! At the hotel, I introduce Homeless-Guy to the Receptionist. He embraces the façade, playing his part of concerned citizen, nobly handing in the bag. The tension is palpable as the Receptionist processes the situation. Thankfully, she too plays along, sincerely commending Homeless-Guy for his assistance. There follows the only moment of authenticity between us. I look Homeless-Guy straight in the eye and suggest he goes before the police arrive. He hotfoots it back to the alleys. The police never did find the woman’s muggers, but I took solace knowing she received medical care and at least got her handbag and house-keys back. I often think of Homeless-Guy—young enough to be my son—I hope he got the care he needed. I hope he got his life back. I’d love to hear about any of your own foolhardy Wait! What? adventures.

I’m entirely alone with Homeless-Guy. Later, I’d learn my husband didn’t imagine I’d be foolhardy enough to approach the guy and had (sensibly) removed our kids. But I’m committed now. So begins a strange stroll between an odd paring. A middle-aged school mum 17

My Adventure to Thailand.

Words by Claire Lush

In April we left from Adelaide Airport to fly to

When we got to the hotel, I was surprised to see

Bangkok. We had to change planes in Sydney

how tall the building was! We finally got to the

to fly directly to Bangkok. I have never been

hotel and checked in, went up to our hotel room

to Sydney Airport before and it seemed as if I

and took a nap! Once we woke up from our

had to walk a lot further here than in Adelaide

naps, we decided to go for a nice walk around

Airport. When we got to Bangkok, we had to

the city and visited some markets but it was

stay in the airport until daylight. The airport was

very humid and very dry and because of this,

so big that we had to give our legs a break from

we couldn’t walk very far so we went back to

walking through this massive airport, so we

the hotel. The hotel had a spectacular view of

hopped onto the moving walkways which was

Bangkok and beyond the metropolis. This was

very fun! I had never experienced this before!

my favorite thing about the Baiyoke Hotel.

Next morning came around then Bangkok

The next morning, we woke up early to go and

airport lightened up and we waited for our bags

have breakfast at the bar in the hotel. The hotel

to arrive to catch our train to the city. When we

had this spectacular place to have breakfast

got off our train, we all had decided to find a

called the Good Morning Breakfast & Bangkok,

taxi to drop us all off to Baiyoke Sky Hotel for

which was around the top of floor 76, 78,

two nights. On the way to the hotel, we saw

and 81. And the views from this place were

many gatherings of Thai families with children

extraordinary!

by this river and they were having water fights

and having fun with each other as well as

After breakfast, we decided to walk towards the

many laughs. Also, when we arrived, they were

City of Bangkok. Once again, it was very humid

actually having some festival on this day as well!

and dry outside! We found walking around this

This festival is unique and only happens in early

city was becoming an exhausting trip instead

April and this called Songkran, or also known

of a pleasant walk. We decided to look at many

as Thai New Year. This is Thailand’s biggest and

clothing stalls in the markets, everything else

most important annual festival. It is traditionally

there and we stopped at the food markets to try

celebrated for three days starting from the first

some food on route. We also saw this unusual

full moon in April.

floating market with Thai people were selling

home-grown produces from their boats in wide river of Bangkok. This was the weirdest event I’d ever seen in my lifetime. A place that we visited was a museum called the Jim Thompson House which is the home of a Thai silk artist. The place had some beautiful architecture and amazing gardens which had all sorts of flowers, as well as some lovely artworks. There was also a gorgeous café and restaurant where we sat down and had a nice refreshing coconut drink. We also went to the Anantara Elephant Camp and Resort. While we were there we went for a ride on an elephant. I have never seen an elephant up close, only in the zoo so this was a brand-new experience for me. We also went out into the rural areas of Thailand and saw monkeys roaming around freely which was

very disturbing to me as they were not afraid of humans and they were a little bit aggressive. We visited a beautiful place in the mountains of Phetchabun where there was a Buddhist temple which had a buddha statue and it had five heads all in a row. I am not sure who built these temples but they were really lovely to look at. We also saw a bunch of mosaic works and they were truly colorful. They must’ve taken lots of patience for years, but it looks like it was worth it in the end because they were all magnificent and unique artworks. This place was covered in green all over. I never forget this place and it is placed in my memory forever.

“Ancient Olmec Artefact Site” An illustration of exploration and ancient Olmec Artefacts By Brad Wright Instagram: @brillustr8

The Three B.E.A.R.s Halitech Industries stuck out like a badly bruised thumb in smoggy Boston. The fourth tallest building on Earth, it made the rest of the city look like a Lego set. Hale looked up at the Halitech building wearily – each time he entered he felt smaller than the last. Using his pass key, Hale entered the lobby and headed straight for the elevator, pressing “B2”. Basement 2 held the environmental technology lab, guarded by an almost impenetrable concrete wall and large metal door. A neighbouring plaque read: “Bearers of Environmental and Atmospheric Research (B.E.A.R.)” Hale waved at the security camera in the corner of the room. It opened as if in response. Walking in he was met with his lab partners – Reagan, a petite blonde and remarkable environmental engineer and David, a six-foot-five brawny geophysicist. Reagan appeared particularly pissed off. “They rejected our application again.” “Told you they would,” Hale remarked. “They can’t keep doing this to us!” Reagan slammed her hands on the bench in front of her. David touched Reagan’s shoulder consolingly, gentle giant he was. She smiled slightly in response – a rarity for her these days. They’d been working on creating an artificial ozone layer to patch up the existing one. The technology for such a plan had already been invented; the only issue would be transporting the artificial layer 15 to 40 kilometres upwards to the real one. To achieve this, they’d need the money to develop the tech. And the only place they’d get it was with the corporate giants upstairs. Halitech rejected their grant application, just as they had a thousand times before. It was a miracle B.E.A.R. still existed. Though, Hale suspected Halitech had their reasons, the main one being they needed them for exoplanet habitation.

“I’m not surprised they’re dead set on ExoEarth,” David said, munching on his Galaxy Gum. “We’ve all pretty much given up here.” “Don’t say that. And stop talking with your mouth full.” Reagan looked irritably at David. He simply shrugged. “Dave’s right.” Both David and Reagan looked up at Hale. As Head Scientist of the lab, he called the shots, and whenever he spoke, people around him listened. “Halitech’ll never support our ideas. They don’t care about Earth. They care about capital. Which is why I didn’t come empty handed today.” David and Reagan lifted their eyebrows in unison. Hale ruffled through his pocket and took out his phone. “It started off as just a spark…” After pressing a few buttons, his phone projected a large hologram of a blueprint. “…and became a full-fledged invention.” David and Reagan looked at the hologram in childlike wonder, blue light drenching their faces. “It’s a spaceship,” David finally said after scanning the design’s details. “And it looks magnificent.” “It is.” Stifling her admiration for Hale’s blueprint, Reagan gave Hale a doubtful look. “How’s a fancy-looking spaceship going to help us save the Earth?” Hale clapped his hands together, gladdened he could finally get to the big reveal. “It’s a spaceship and a time machine.” David’s gum fell out of his mouth. “And we’re going to go back to where it all began.” /// Words by Georgia Nolan

Encore

Words By Oliver Land Trigger Warning: This article contains elements that may disturb some readers. So I’m guessing by now we’ve all heard about The Beatles new release right? Yup, so it turns out that Paul McCartney had a song called Now and Then sat unfinished, and now decided that the technology available meant he could finally finish it and release it, 30 years after it was initially written in 1970! People are saying it’s a fitting bookend to The Beatles music, and I have to agree, having listened to this latest song so many times it has a permanent residency in my head.

England, inspiring bands like Primal Scream and Manic Street Preachers. And so began the wait for the second album.

The Stone Roses’ second album was called Second Coming. It was alright. I first learned of The Stone Roses from my dad, who still I think summed it up the best.

With this being the last issue of Empire Times for the year, I wanted to take the chance to talk about a couple of bands that released two or three albums, and compare their quality. Firstly, I’m going to talk about a subject I love to talk about as much as I can. The Stone Roses. Well, very rarely is there an album in which I insist every single song is just perfect. The Stone Roses self titled initial release is one of those albums, and you’d be hard pressed to find a Brit who would disagree. From start to finish, ‘The Stone Roses’ is an album that resonates with optimism and human emotion, enough to make it connect to anyone of any age. It was a masterpiece of groove and pop music, and instantly started to influence the music scene in 24

When your first album is as iconic as The Stone Roses, anything they released after was never going to live up. I actually don’t mind it too much,

It’s still fairly groovy, but sure enough, it would never reach the heights of its predecessor. The band shortly fell apart under legal fights and infighting, but that first album will forever remain in the identity of British music.

mates would go on to form New Order, a just as influential band.

Next, the most tragic story I’ve ever heard in music, along with two of the greatest albums ever.

Back in England, in 1979, the band Joy Division released their debut album, Unknown Pleasures. A brilliant album of art-rock music that didn’t really sound like much before it, Unknown pleasures caught the band some popularity, and sold through its 10000 pressing release. They went on tour to support the Buzzcocks around the UK. Ian Curtis, the lead singer had epilepsy, and as the band went on tour, his epilepsy started to worsen caused by the late hours and intense lifestyle. His fits became uncontrollable, and he was having attacks on stage, which some people thought were just part of the show. In 1980, the band released their second album, Closer. Closer was amazing, even better than Unknown pleasures, and Love Will Tear Us Apart would go on to top the charts in England. Joy Division were about to go international, supporting Buzzcocks in America. On the 18th of May, 1980, just before this tour, Ian Curtis watched the Werner Herzog film Stroszek, listened to Iggy Pop’s The Idiot, and hung himself in his kitchen. With his epilepsy worsening, terrified of what Americas opinion of it would be, and with a marriage on the brink of divorce, Ian Curtis committed suicide. His death was felt around England, and in time his band

Both Joy Division albums were brilliant, and with his backstory in mind, I can find it hard to listen to some of closer, hearing Ian Curtis sing “For entertainment they watch his body twist, Behind his eyes he says, “I still exist” Understandably I think I took this final opportunity to talk about two groups who never leave my mind. I’m sorry to leave you all with such a sad story, but hopefully you will go and listen to Ian Curtis sing, shed some tears and think about the way life takes us sometimes. Then go listen to the Stone Roses and let them cheer you up. Join in with Ian Brown as he sings, “The past was yours but the future’s mine” There’s always more music to listen to, and if you’ve tried anything from my articles please let me know. I also write the Tabletop Times articles, and I plan on continuing those if I’m able, however I’m not sure about these ones. If you’d like me to keep going, I’d love to, and until then, goodbye for now. But she expressed herself in many different ways Until she lost control again And walked upon the edge of no escape And laughed, “I’ve lost control” “Shes Lost Control” Closer, Joy Division 25

We had a chat with Flinders’ graduate Jacqui Storey, founder of Little Droppings, an Adelaide-based re-usable nappy service. Fascinated by her story, Empire Times asked about Jacqui’s own adventure of becoming a business owner and environmental advocate.

What made you want to start ‘Little Droppings’? When I had a baby, I was completely overwhelmed with all the responsibilities that come with being a parent. I found it super hard to stick to my environmental values – I wanted to use reusable nappies but I was failing hard. All I wanted to do was outsource the hard stuff so I could get back to being with my bub, or, getting some much-needed sleep! I created the service for people like me, we want to stop all this nappy waste from going to landfill and reduce our family footprint but it’s just not possible alone. One baby creates 700kg of disposable nappy waste every year – that’s more than an average Australian family’s entire year of waste! Above all else, Little Droppings is on a mission to stop nappy waste but we make it the easiest option for parents – we want to take the load off parent’s overflowing plates not add to it! Why should parents consider a reusable nappy service? Parents can see the environmental benefit of reusable nappies – the monstrous amount of waste and the greenhouse gas emissions that go with it. We have done extensive research with parents; we know that a lot of people want to use reusable nappies but that they can’t manage the washing on top of all the other things daily life requires of a parent with a small child. The reason we loan nappies is that it’s a barrier for people to spend money upfront when they’re not sure if they can stick with it in the long term. For parents that want to give reusable nappies a go without the risks, opting for a nappy service is an awesome solution. How has your business changed your life? Starting a business is the ultimate adventure. The thrill of creating a unique service that people actually want to buy – is like nothing else I’ve experienced. I’ve founded startups before but this is the first one that’s really held traction, and answered a real and urgent need in the community while making a significant impact in reducing waste. It’s super satisfying seeing the impact the business has made in hard numbers – we’ve saved 8 tonnes of nappy waste so far – and this is just the beginning! 26

Do you have a special story to share about a customer who loved your service? It warms my heart when customers talk about how we make their lives easier, and they can now spend more time with their baby or on their own self-care. One of our customers sums it up perfectly: “We all want to do better for the environment but when the pressures of daily life are on, it can be so easy to push back plans to implement changes. Reusable nappies was something we were interested in, but it felt daunting as a first-time parent with other commitments. I found out about Little Droppings when I was so kindly gifted several weeks of the service. It has turned out to be the #1 service I didn’t know I needed. We selected nappy hire and drop-off/pick-ups at home twice a week, which reduces our disposable usage down 90 - 95%! No more emergency trips to the supermarket, space free in the bin and more time for our little one.” ~ Donna How can customers purchase your products and what are the options? You can purchase our nappy service online. We aim to keep things as easy as possible for people by having only a few simple options: 1. Choose between BYO or loan nappies Use your own cloth nappies or loan them from us. We have a beautiful range of nappies from Little Popkin, a local Adelaide designer. 2. Select your pickup and drop off location Your home, your little one’s childcare centre or you can pick up from our warehouse 3. Your Welcome Pack is delivered We deliver your Welcome Pack on the first delivery. In here you’ll find a Little Droppings nappy bin, a beautiful batch of nappies (if you loan from us), a mesh bag and an info sheet. 4. Leave the stinky stuff to us On Tuesdays and Fridays we’ll pick up the dirty nappies and drop off your freshly cleaned ones. We come back every week until you don’t need us anymore. What are your hopes for the future? This is just the start for us, we have a grand vision. We want to make reusable nappies the norm in South Australia, we aim to lead the rest of the States down the same path. Next year we’re aiming towards saving 100 tonnes of nappy waste from landfill, and then more from there!

Interview by Georgia Nolan 27

- Poetry I was inspired to write this poem while standing on the Murray River Bank and the mouth of the river. It’s about a life’s journey, the beauty of the uncertainty of nature, and how nature speaks to me: Mouth of the Murray

- By Conor Brown -

Pink. The kind of saffron, salmon pink that gently intermingles and Flirts shamelessly with a soft horizon orange and An icy cold, deep blue. The sky is pink As I sit and think On what Murray would say to me If he could speak. If I sat down at the organ Unplugged from the speakers Open my ears to the tongue, silver, tied Breathing in and out to the ‘shore-ness’ of a Respiratory pattern and knots of wind whipping and Whistling past the gaps in the whitecapped jaws. Fringed by the green fleshy gumtrees. The minty fresh breath of Eucalypt. Beneath that starry roof of the Mouth, I still my mind in the frozen quietude, And wonder what it would be like to be the water Of the delta.

To have travelled so far and for so long, In certainty of a winding way, To come to a watery crossroads. Heaving in its turbulency And chaotic uncertainty. Who could really say for sure Whether the water will be an ocean Or a river. To rise, to fall, to change. The epitome of growing up. To others The swinging Murray moods could Bring devastating doom Of depressing drought Or overflowing floods. The drink of life to its dependants Or the choking hazard to the reckless, But really, it’s just water, trying to find its way. The Murray River speaks through its mouth And it says it knows what it is To be young.

- Poetry This is about being in the Outback of Australia. Having just completed a student placement in the Northern Territory, I thought this was fitting. Spirit of the Outback

- By Conor Brown How do you capture a spirit? Entomb it in a page? Trap phantasmic beings behind bars Made of words for readers to gaze?

Some big and some small. Of vast colourful features, Of swelter and steely cold.

Many have different ideas to do it. Trace tracks to the origin, bait and wait. Call out to it and hope it’ll come. Pray it’ll reveal itself as a saint.

Where stories are sung of the land. Of each rock, tree, bird and beast. Why the moon keeps dying and reviving, and Why the sun rises from the East.

Even more are critics to these ideas, Think there are better ways to hunt. And as the jailers argue and deliberate, Their captive walks out the front!

Of crimson stones of sacredness. Of prismatic arcing serpents. Rainmakers, ionic and thunderous. Agents of the country’s elements.

So, really, why should we try and capture Something that to keep, would be such a bother? Why don’t we just find, for ourselves to admire, This creature of Nature Mother?

Of low scrubs, green. Blue, distant, rolling hills. Bright waters that sheen. Blazing desert skies that thrill.

Fellow ethereal stalkers. Wielders of language and ink. Why don’t we just write what we know? To advertise and not overthink? Like this… Once, upon a time, There was a land that dreamed. And when it woke, you could find Many wonders that it deemed. You won’t find them all here. You’ll have to go out and listen…. Go to the place where the night sky’s A blanket, full of stars that glisten. Of strange, remarkable creatures.

Peace of mind can be found. All you need do is head Outback And listen, listen to the ground. Listen for a change in tack… Can you hear it in the songs by the campfire light? Can you hear it in the silence of the night? Can you hear it in the waves of the bright, clear waters? Hear it in the sound of creatures and crawlers? Can you hear it in the trees and as the fresh winds howl? Can you hear the song that the Wilde calls out? Can you hear the land that’s made of these things? The spirit of the Outback is singing you a dream. 29

LIFE’S LITTLE ADVENTURES –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

It’s possible to enjoy slower, simpler adventures and still reap the benefits By Katie Stedman

Some personalities live for this adventurous challenge and embrace new experiences, while others seem content to remain in their comfort zones. If you search for the meaning of the word ‘adventure’, there will be words associated with it such as ‘danger’ and ‘risk-taking’. There’s a whole type of tourism called adventure travel which specialises in things like sky-diving, white-water rafting or other physical and culturally significant activities. It’s a great method of tourism if you’re an adrenaline-junkie.

So, whatever type of adventure you partake in – high-energy thrills, or more peaceful scenery – there are different benefits that you can still experience. Typical adventure activities often take place with a group of people, and this can help forge and strengthen friendships. As well as different health benefits, if it’s more of a physical activity, there will often be a sense of satisfaction of completion or overcoming different challenges. It can also push you out of your normal comfort zone and help improve your selfconfidence. Along with undergoing new experiences and learning new skills, going on an adventure can also teach you more about the world and different cultures.

-––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “I need something new and exciting in It doesn’t have to be a big adventure in far my life. I need to go have an adventure,” off distant places. It might be as simple as someone might say to you. discovering a new hiking or walking track, going to a different beach, or going on a Does it ever sound like going off on an small road-trip. Maybe instead of jumping adventure is the same thing as going out of a plane, you’re more content with a off on a grand quest? There’ll be all this peaceful hot-air balloon ride. If you’re with planning for a year-long event in far the right people, and experiencing new distant lands, you’re chosen companions things, a ‘smaller’ adventure can be just will be by your side, and when you come as rewarding as a much grander event. back, you’re a changed person, so much Someone else’s side-quest can be your wiser and more experienced in life. idea of adventure, and that’s okay.

But what about those personalities who don’t naturally have this adventurous streak? Of course, there’s no reason why people without an adventurous streak So, no matter what type of adventures can’t partake in and enjoy these activities you’re having, make sure you go have just as much as adrenaline-junkies. them. But there are other ways that they can experience similar feelings. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Literary Role Playing Games Words By Midchell Daykin Whether you’re a Book Lover, a Role-Playing Gamer, or an avid Tabletop RPG fan, you are familiar with Adventure. The sense of excitement and exhilaration of the character, or a merry band of characters, go adventuring and explore through a series of fights and hardships, forever developing and growing. Being part of “Tabletop Times” Writer Oliver Land’s Dungeons & Dragons Campaign for the last 6 years has given me a deeper love and understanding of the Role-Playing Genre and have fallen in love with the LitRPG genre of books. For those of you out there that enjoy the adventure aspects of RPGs, and the Levelling and mechanics of TTRPG’s, I highly recommend checking out some LitRPG’s on RoyalRoad. Some I can personally recommend are He Who Fights With Monsters, Primal Hunter, Defiance of the Fall and The Wandering Inn. Each of the previous books tell incredible stories and adventures, mixed with genius and in-depth mechanics inspired by classic Role-Playing games. The following is an example of how a LitRPG can be written. The Black Sword In a Time most dare not speak of. A time of Chaos, despair and madness, a man, no a being, walked among this land. His name was known by the gods and goddesses of old, and it was feared. Only those that roamed the land of the dead had seen his face, the last thing they saw. That being, was me. The ringing of metal on metal and the ambient hum of the machine in the back had become background noise to the men and women that worked in the building. The process of extracting rich and rare materials from the fabric of reality known as the void was a relatively new idea. One that Sir. Grenof had stumbled upon during his service to the king, leading him to retire and construct this factory-like building. In a town, known as Kaptun, where all the shady organizations operate, a factory exploded, purple lightning erupting from the ground, sending rubble scattering. “Only a few hours left Juhne. By the eight I can’t wait to get out of here” “Yeah, luckily it pays well cause fuck doing this for scraps. Im getting a coffee, want one?” In the heart of the factory, two men were chattering whilst “overseeing” the machinery. These men were not important, they had no impact on society and had no relevance to the world, so here they were, a rogue and an assassin, stuck working a day job at a factory. Whilst the two men were chattering away, either of them had noticed the black crystal filling with purple lightning that had begun to form about 4 feet above the ground. With every thump of the machine drawing energy from the void, the crystal pulsated in kind, drawing in and absorbing the energy around it. By the time the men had returned to work and realized what was happening, it was too late. A tendril of purple lightning stretched out and stuck the first man, his body turning to ash that was dragged forth towards the orb in a whirlwind. The second man, after realizing uttered a quick curse and turned to run. He made it three paces towards the door before the lightning struck, and his world went black. The ashes of the two men continued to swirl around the orb, slowly being absorbed into it, and as it drew in more energy the thumping of the machinery begun to speed up, faster and faster. It filled the room with small crackling purple and black bolts, and the crystal began to change. As the ash was absorbed, a concrete like substance began to form around the crystal, growing and morphing into a humanoid form. With an almighty thump that seemed to halt all of reality around the factory, purple lightning flashed from the building, reaching for the skies before fading out. The damage was done. 32

Where once was a building was now smoldering ash, and in the middle was a man, staring at the sky. It’s so warm. I have no idea where I am, or who I am, or what I even am. All that I know is that I am currently standing in smoke. I look up at the blue expanse above me, the sky, and am awe struck at the sight. Beautiful blue sky and the warmth of the suns. I have no idea how I know what they are called, but for some reason I have some knowledge of the world around me, and memories? No that’s not exactly right. They are fragments of someone else’s lives. *Thump* My train of thought pauses as I look down to see a rock that had just hit me laying on the ground. I look around to see townsfolk, all human, gathering and they look angry. Another arm races and another rock hits me, and this one opened the flood gate. Within moments I am running down the street, clumsy on my feet as a hail of stones and rocks fall behind me. Each one is a projectile of pain that builds resentment and primal anger of humans within me. There is an illness that plagues this world. Humans hold such prejudice and racist bias, that the other races are belittled and left without defense... something I wish to change. {DING! You have gained a new Ability!} {DING! You must choose a class before you can level up} Ability? Class? The voice in my head speaks before words appear in my vision, a status. And a smile spread across my face as I realized a way to grow and return with my vengeance.

Name: ---Race: Voidborn (Unstable Core) Class: ---Age: 0 Level: 0 Health: 18 Mana: 21 Stamina: 20 Strength: 15 Agility: 27 Dexterity: 25 Constitution: 18 Endurance: 20 Intelligence: 21 Wisdom: 19 Charisma: 8 Luck: 10 Abilities: Void Heart Fast Learner Unnatural Aura Skills: Stealth Lvl 1; 0% to next level Archery Lvl 1; 23% to next level Unarmed Combat Lvl 1; 78% to next level Void Magic Lvl 12; 98% to next level Mana Manipulation Lvl 1; 78% to next level Resistances: Necrotic: 100% Alignment: Neutral Languages: All And thus, the adventure begins. 33

South Australia’s Limestone Coast Words By Katia Rawlings A group of friends and I recently spent a week down in a little town 30 minutes outside of Robe called Beachport. It’s not a large town by any means but it has a lot of heart. We stayed in the 3-mile bend campgrounds which is located in the conservation park in Beachport 5 minutes from the town centre. The campsites were unpowered which created a stress free environment for some escapism from everyday life. Little pockets of serenity encapsulated by trees all around was where we spent our nights. Beachport is known for its crystal clear beaches and scenic drive through the area. Photos do not do justice to how beautiful the beaches are there. There are many places to hike along the waterfront through vast rock formations out amongst the waves. The view is stunning as you stand 6 or 7 meters above the surface level and look out at the ocean or across sand as it turns into vegetation. The pool or Siloam is another great attraction to check out whilst in Beachport. With a salt concentration nearly 7 times that of the ocean, the pool of Siloam is great for floating and easy swimming. It has bathrooms, picnic tables and an outdoor shower to wash off some of that salty residue. There are countless scenic hiking trails through Beachport that offer incredible views of both the ocean and the dense vegetation in the area. Some that we took were the Lake Wooly Loop, Lanky’s walk, the Lighthouse walk and part of Wendy’s Walk. Each one boasted different attractions, Lake wooly, Lanky’s well, the Beachport lighthouse and

from the top of Wendy’s walk you can see quite a large part of Beachport. If you are in the area, you should check out our favourite stop for quick and tasty food. We cooked most meals ourselves but when we just wanted a quick bite of something a little different, we stopped at The Green Room 2.0. The Green Room 2.0 is a small tuck shop/take away restaurant in Beachport’s town centre. The service was lovely, and the owner/ manager always put a little extra into each meal. After our time in Beachport, we headed across to Mt Gambier. Our first stop along the way was at the Tantanoola caves in Tantanoola. The Tantanoola caves is one of the first and only wheelchair accessible caves in Australia and is host to hundreds of stalagmites and stalactites. Mt Gambier is full of hikes and tourist attractions, and we visited as many as we could in our short stay there. The first we went to was the Engelbrecht Caves. Laid beneath the main streets of Mt Gambier is a cave system that stretches at least 340 meters west of the cave entrance. It has many openair pockets but even more underwater systems. Unlike the Tantanoola caves the Engelbrect Cave does not hold stalagmites and stalactites as it is what they call a dry cave. Despite having water throughout the cave system not enough passes through the limestone above to create stalagmites and stalactites. The water in some places can be 12 meters deep but because it is so clear it looks like only a puddle.

BEACHPORT’S SCENIC DRIVE

LANKEY’S WALK

THE BLUE LAKE

The next place we visited was the Umpherston sinkhole. The Umpherston sinkhole is a gorgeous sunken garden. It was turned into a garden by James Umpherston in 1886 and is open to the public for anyone to enjoy. The sinkhole is home to possums who will come up to you for food. The collection of native and non-native flora provides a lush green environment for all to gawk at. Whilst down that direction I recommend also going to the Naracoorte caves in Naracoorte. There are a large number of cave systems in Naracoorte that provide beautiful fossils and stalagmites and stalactites that cannot be seen anywhere else. The specific limestone in the Alexandria caves cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. There are fossilised shells and sea creatures from hundreds of thousands of years ago that are unique to Naracoorte.

THE TANTANOOLA CAVES

The final attraction in Mt Gambier that we went to was the Blue Lake. The blue lake is one of the most well-known attractions in Mt Gambier and it did not disappoint. There is a lovely older gentleman who takes tours down almost to the surface level of the lake and demonstrates the importance of the lake to the town. The Blue lake is the towns water source and the only thing that keeps the town functioning. The lake is the most vibrant blue in the summer as the light refracts off the calcium carbonate particles in the water creating the blue look. I would 100% recommend visiting all of these places and taking a look at all of the attractions that you can! Beachport is quiet and homely whilst Mt Gambier is definitely someplace to go when you’ve got things you want to do. There is so much to see in South Australia’s Limestone coast and the best part is that you don’t even have to leave the state to explore it. THE ENGELBRECHT CAVES

THE UMPHERSTON SINKHOLE

tabletop times with Oliver So, the last issue of the year. Here we are. Honestly I’ve covered such a variety of topics that when it comes down to it I’m not sure where to go from here. So I’m opening this issue with a request for help. I’ve had a little feedback from some people saying they’ve enjoyed what I’ve written, and even FUTURE (Flinders university’s own tabletop club) reached out, asking if I wanted to collaborate. Out of my own inability to manage time and the end of year rush, I never got on this like I should, but it did get me thinking. I’d like to carry on writing next year if I’m able, and I’d like to know whether anyone out there wants me too as well! If you do, please, give me some ideas! Anything you’d like to hear about! Questions, opinions, even if you don’t like what I’ve written and want to offer another view, I’d love that! I’m now going to carry on the trend and pick a few random topics for the rest of my article. As if you’d expect anything different. With the holidays fast arriving, there’s a solid chance we’re all going to end up with just a little more free time! Now is a good time to recall the advice I gave on where to get into D&D. While the best idea, I’ve always believed, has been to kidnap a couple of friends and “surprise” them with a game, I concede that not all friend groups would go for this sort of thing. That’s why places like Dragon’s lair and good games run great starting D&D games for anyone. Plus there’s always places to find games online (FUTURE is a good place to start for this). Anyway, having talked about all that before, I wanted to point out a few D&D related things that can be done to pass the holidays. Firstly, and by far my preferred thing to do, PODCASTS! D&D is the ultimate thing for a podcast format. If done well, the description and the role-play just makes it captivating. The obvious recommendation here is Critical Role, with Matthew Mercer as the DM, a man whom many consider to be the best DM ever. Controversially, I actually have not listened to much Critical Role content at all I tend to struggle with it a little actually. Close behind Critical Role I feel is Not Another D&D Podcast. Oh baby, what a journey this Podcast is. Hundreds of episodes and I love all of them. Some of the best DMing I’ve ever heard backed up with the naturally funny players, of which there are only three, with the occasional guest. They’ve had some very very cool guests, not least of all Brennan Lee Mulligan, who is one of my personal heroes. He DMs for Dropout tv show Dimension 20, which is my highest recommendation for D&D podcasts. Lots of different shows, lots of cool 36

characters, and Brennan is a truly amazing person and DM. Dungeons and Dragons has truly expanded out beyond just a game. Of course there’s the podcasts, but first there were books! Mostly set in the forgotten realms, there’s the Drizzt Do’urden series, following the titular character on his many adventures. I haven’t read all of them yet, and there’s a few, but I quite liked the first one, and it’s another (obviously) perfect format to explore the lore of the setting most used in the written for you adventures. There’s some TV shows, an old 1980’s animated show that looks kinda goofy, but i’ll refrain from talking about seeing as i haven’t seen it, and Vox Machina, based on the first campaign by the Critical Role cast! Lastly, have yourselves a movie night, and absolutely check out the D&D movie recently released, Honour Among Thieves. Honestly an excellent movie, no knowledge of D&D needed, although it is really fun to pick out all the bits that make you go “Oh wow, our group did that too!”. I was lucky enough to see this movie with my whole group in the cinema, and it was a great experience. Did you know, the final fight in the movie against the big bad guy is perfectly timed in 6 second intervals, which is the length of a turn in the tabletop game? Plus it goes in turn order. I think this should provide you with enough D&D related stuff to go on with at least for the holiday (and probably longer beyond that). I have one more thing to talk about here in conclusion. I have some homework to issue you. Those of you that play D&D, (and are brave enough to venture into the outside world) need to get involved and spread the word! In recent years, D&D has exploded beyond imagination, with mainstream movies and exposure. No matter what anyone says, I’m a firm believer that this is a good thing! More exposure means more sales, more money, and more cool stuff for us! This is how we end up with cool stuff like Baldur’s Gate 3. Hopefully I have entertained the people who have read my articles, and like I said, let me know if I should keep going? I could do a killer article on a personal fascination of mine, The satanic panic, and the way it links with D&D. (Seriously google it, it’s super interesting.)

How do you sell mental health? BY AdMental Now in its sixth year AdMental asks Adelaide’s emerging Advertising Creatives at Adelaide’s Universities to produce an advertisement that sells mental health and wellbeing. Earlier this month they tackled men’s mental health debunking the myth that men do not want to talk about it. AdMental is an annual event that brings together Adelaide Advertising and Design Club (AADC), Don Dunstan Foundation and the Mental Health Coalition of South Australia (MHCSA). Each year this team works on a brief that targets a specific message with previous years covering mental illness, loneliness in older people and workplace mental health and wellbeing.

by a panel of industry experts. The winner goes on to receive the Geoff Robertson Memorial Award and a one year scholarship to Award School. This year University of South Australia student Olivia Cordera is studying a Bachelor of Creative Industries, majoring in both Film & Television and Communication & Media. Next year AdMental is tackling women’s mental health. Follow AdMental on Facebook and Instagram to find out how you can be involved in AdMental 2024.

This year’s brief? Develop a 30-60 second video highlighting the need for understanding and support for the mental health of men aged 45-65 years. Why? Because mental illness remains high among Australian men, with up to 25 per cent experiencing a diagnosed mental health disorder in their lifetime. Yet face-to-face ‘intervention’ style conversations can often feel intense and intimidating. Fewer men access professional help or support than women and they only account for 40 per cent of Medicaresubsidised mental health services. First launched in 2017, AdMental is inspired by ‘The Pitch’ segment of the TV show ‘The Gruen Transfer’. Here two emerging creatives are tasked with the same brief: create a clever and thought provoking advertisement to promote mental health for a specific demographic. Each creative is then partnered with a local advertising agency, who mentor them through the process. The final advertisements are presented at the event and judged

IMAGE: AdMental 2023 winner Olivia Cordera with one of the judges, Dena Vassallo of SOCIETY Photography credit Adelaide Exposure

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Our financial counselling service is here for all things money-related and can help you find ways to improve your financial situation. If you’re in financial difficulty we have emergency financial assistance, interest-free $500 loans, and can help in working out how to make a budget. Our financial counsellor can also negotiate with creditors on your behalf and help with uninsured car accidents, disconnection of utilities, and unpaid fines. We are available for appointments via telephone, Microsoft Teams and face-to-face appointments. Our services are free and confidential to all students.

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EMPIRE TIMES 2023 We want to hear from YOU! Contact us with ideas you want to see in 2024 and you could be FEATURED! PHOTOS_ART_POETRY_WRITING_PUZZLES_ETC. empiretimes@flinders.edu.au empiretimesmagazine.com/contribute 40