The Melbourne Graduate November 2008

THE

MELBOURNE

The Graduate Union of The University of Melbourne Inc.

GR ADUATE

Periodical newsletter of the graduate union of the university of melbourne incorporated Print Post approved pp337834/00022 registered association no.

AA0023234B November 2008 Volume 61 No. 4 www.graduatehouse.com.au

HEAD OF COLLEGE TRAVELS TO ASIA

H

ead of College Eugene Spanti, returned at the end of October having completed a two week trip to China, Taiwan and Thailand. Commencing with visits to Beijing and Shanghai as part of the University of Melbourne Open Days, the purpose of the trip was to procure additional reciprocal arrangements for the Graduate Union in Asia.

Contents CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2 LETTERS

2

NEW MEMBERS

2

VALETE

2

DONATIONS

2

MEMBERS

3

LUNCHEON SPEAKERS

4

VISITORS, STAFF NEWS 5 PROJECT UPDATE

5

EVENTS, SPECIAL OFFER

6

RESIDENTS

7

HEAD OF COLLEGE REPORT

8

Office Bearers President: The Honourable John Cain

Wanpimon Senapadpakorn, Eugene Spanti, Brian Phillips,amd Chariya Brockelman

The large University contingent, including the Vice-Chancellor and Heads of Faculties converged on Beijing between 11-14 October where the program included an exhibition, seminars and meetings with agents, and also included visits to Tsinghua, Peking and Nanjing Universities. The International Students Services booth at the exhibition very kindly displayed Graduate House accommodation information.

Shanghai was the second destination in China between 15‑18 October and the same format applied at the JC Mandarin Hotel where the

majority of the group stayed and the exhibition and seminars were held.

After two weeks in China, Eugene travelled next to Taipei and the National Taiwan University where he met with a delegation which included Deputy Dean Jer-Ming Hu and Ms Kelly Chang, the Regional Manager in the Office of International Affairs at the University. The benefits of reciprocity were discussed and we are now awaiting the signing of an agreement.

The next stop was Mahidol University International College located at Salaya, Nakhonpatham, in Bangkok, Thailand.

Mahidol University International College has a Hotel and Hospitality Training Centre and a 5-star hotel in which students are trained in all aspects of hospitality and accommodation. Excellent accommodation is available for international visitors and students. At his meeting with Dean Chariya Brockelman, Assistant Dean Brian Phillips and Wanpimon Senapadpakorn, Assistant General Manager of the International College, the possibility of an exchange of Chefs was discussed, a very appealing idea which will be further explored.

Vice President: Dr Robert Gibson Chairman: Mr Andrew Binns

Eugene with Assist Professor Rattachat Mongkolnavin, Chulalongkorn University

Vice Chairman: Mr David Sparks Head of College and CEO Mr Eugene Spanti Eugene with Deputy Dean Jer-Ming Hu, National Taiwan University

Chulalongkorn University was Eugene’s final destination. There is strong partnership between the University of Melbourne and Chulalongkorn and the University’s representative Gavin Brown, accompanied (Continued Page 6) November 2008 Volume 61 No.4 –

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE DONATIONS Building Fund $200 DMW Industries $100 Mr J Franklin Residents’ Assistance Fund $100 Mr R Manuell,

Mr J Franklin Many Thanks to Professor Vassilios Sarafis for his regular donations, totalling $1000 at year end.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2 December Italian Conversation Dinner 3 December Monthly Luncheon Speaker: Reverend Dr John Davis, Vicar, St Peters, East Melbourne 5 December Chairman’s Cocktail party 12 December Members Christmas Party Queen’s College Choir, Santa, and Prizes 17 December Women’s Forum Topic: A lighthearted meeting The Melbourne Graduate is normally published four times a year by The Graduate Union of The University of Melbourne Incorporated. It is edited by Eugene Spanti and Lyn Weston, under the direction of the Graduate Council and its Executive Committee.

The Melbourne Graduate welcomes letters from readers and reserves the right to edit them for publication.

Please keep word count to a maximum of 250 and address to The Editors, The Melbourne Graduate.

Registered Address: The Graduate Union, 220 Leicester St., Carlton, Vic. 3053 Australia. Telephone: (03) 9347-3428 Facsimile (03) 9347-9981 www.graduatehouse.com.au email: sec@graduatehouse.com.au Printed by: FSG Design & Print, 1 Argent Place, Ringwood, Vic. 3134.

Tel: (03) 9873 5144

LETTERS from Frank Lees AM, MBE, former President, Life Member.

I have pleasure in enclosing the Annual Report of Convocation for 2007 – the 140th anniversary of the establishment of Convocation. Breaking with precedent we convened in a College; a most successful change, with a warm ambience and delicious food well served. Thank you Eugene, and your staff Martin and Rosie. I am hoping that Convocation will develop a closer liaison with The Graduate Union in the future. May 2008 from Kinnear Grose, Life Member.

Thank you for the birthday greetings from Graduate Union.

As I am aged and live distantly, it is pleasant to feel that I am connected in this way to the Union still. I congratulate the Graduate Union on this plan for members to celebrate birthdays at Graduate House. May 2008 from Norma Long, Life Member.

Thank you so much for inviting me to the cocktail party that you had last evening for Maj Gen Ritchie. It was very interesting talking to people from another Post-Grad College.

I was beginning to think that we were unique. You did, and do, well. May 2008 from Darren Room, Life Member Eugene, I hope your trip to Padua was as successful as expected and I look forward to hearing about your experiences at that University. The lunch yesterday, which was addressed

by Dr Philip Freier, was a most outstanding success too, in my view. I am writing to thank and congratulate Lyn Weston, in particular, for the splendid organization and detailed preparation and, above all, for her alert and sensitive supervision of the day. Her approach and thorough care was critical to all going so well. Martin and his crew again worked faultlessly (as usual) and the dining room looked so well. I might add that my friends were impressed, and the Archbishop told me he too admired the ambience and friendly hospitality of Graduate House. Dr Freier was happy to accept my offer of membership in the Graduate Union. My thanks, and congratulations, to all at Graduate House. June 2008 from Esmond J Downey, Member 1975 - 1991 Thank you very much for your letter of 26 June offering congratulations from yourself, Councillors and members of the Graduate Union upon my Award of Member of the Order of Australia. Thank you also for your kind invitation to visit Graduate House. However, I rarely go into the City these days and hardly ever up to the University. I used to be a member of the Graduate Union when Bill Berry and Barbara Funder were running the show but I’m afraid I was never a very active member. I commend the Union for the fine support it gives to overseas and Post-graduate students. July 2008 from Bakrat Ali, Life Member I write to convey a Big Thank You to Martin and the Graduate House staff for the help my wife and I, and our son David, received in arranging our Golden Wedding Anniversary celebration on 5 July 2008. It was lovely to be able to celebrate with 51 family and friends in such a relaxed atmosphere.

Everyone was very impressed with the décor, the delicious food and the excellent service. The phone did not stop ringing on Sunday, and we are so pleased that Martin and staff made our anniversary a memorable one for everyone. We will have many happy moments from Saturday night to look back on and enjoy. July 2008 from Joan Ansell, Life Member.

Thank you for your very kind thought in sending me a birthday card. I am sorry to say that, being so far from Melbourne, I am unable to take advantage of the Graduate Union’s provision of a birthday glass of wine. I have been unable to visit the Graduate Union for some years now but it may be possible to visit in the not-too-distant future. July 2008 from Caroline Richardson, Life Member.

Thank you so much for your letter of congratulations re a Queen’s Birthday Honour. I certainly was very surprised and

– November 2008 Volume 61 No.4

honoured to receive it. I read with interest the activities at Graduate House. I admire you all and what you have done to develop a place where graduates from diverse backgrounds can be together. It sounds a really stimulating environment. If I come to live in Melbourne one day I would hope to attend some functions. August 2008 from K Bitans, Member since 1963.

Many thanks for your Birthday Greeting to me on behalf of the Graduate Union. On this occasion it was my reaching of that biblical milestone in my life of three score and ten.

Thanking you again. August 2008 from R Manuell, Life Member since 1963.

Thank you for my unexpected birthday card: it was good to receive it. Although I have lived in Sydney for many years the newsletter keeps me in touch with Union developments. I enjoyed the article about your journeys in the August issue, especially as it reminded me of a visit I made to Padua, with its wonderfully ancient university, some years back. I trust you will have a good visit to the French Forum. I enclose a cheque for the Residents’ Assistance Fund. August 2008 from Jennifer Davidson, Life Member since 1958.

Thank you for kindly sending my birthday card and the invitation to lunch at Graduate House. I cannot accept for the 29th but will let you know if I can arrange for another day close by. I appreciate this gesture on behalf of the Graduate Union. August 2008

NEW MEMBERS The following new members joined the Graduate Union in the period August - November 2008. We welcome them and look forward to their participation in our members’ programs.

Life Members Mrs M Genovesi, BMus, BAHons Corporate Members Department of Mechanical Engineering Italian Australian Institute Ordinary Members Dr C Booth, BScHons(UNSW), DBiotech(UQ), GCAppFin(Finsia) Dr M Brennan, MBBS, DorCP&S(London), FRACO Assoc Prof S Elsom, PhD Dr R Frampton, BSc, MSC, PhD Mr D McInerney, BEc, LLB(ANU), MTax(UNSW) Ms R Maddick, BA, DipSocStuds, DipCrim, MSW(Hlth) Mr G Ogilvy, BArch, DipSocStud, MArch Mr M Penkethman, BBus(Deakin), MTax(UNSW) Mr J Ramsden, LLB Ms K Ridge, BCom(Bond) Mr J Vizard, BEd

All degrees are from University of Melbourne unless otherwise noted.

Degrees are stated as presented on members’ application forms.

VALETE Since publication of the August 2008 edition of The Melbourne Graduate we have been notified of the deaths of the following Life Members: Miss M Hagger, since 1952 Mr J Jago, since 1951 Miss P McCall, since 1955 Mr B Ostberg, since 1976 Mr J Pascoe, since 1954 Mr L Penn-Tonkin, since 1947.

The Graduate Union appreciates the support of these members and extends condolences to their families.

We regret that space constraints do not allow individual acknowledgement of each deceased member.

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE MEMBERS

• MEMBERS

New Member Turns Love of Food & Wine into Business Brand new Graduate Union member, Ms Karen Ridge is such a fond lover of food and wine that she has now turned the pair into a fascinating new business.

Food and Wine Travel is a brand new concept, created especially to cater for holiday makers who love to experience a destination through its food and wine. “Your senses will come alive”, says Karen, as you take your taste buds on a gastronomic holiday to places like Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal & Morocco, South Africa, South America, the USA, Vietnam, Thailand, New Caledonia, Singapore, New Zealand or even our own Tassie!

“I’m offering hand crafted small group tours, or you can create your own private travel experience from our endless range of ideas.......day tours, cooking schools, walking and/or cycling holidays, self–drive itineraries, chauffeur driven and guided tours, or even cruises,” Karen explained Despite the business being new, Karen however is not new to the travel industry or business ownership, with 16 years experience behind her, as well as a Bachelor Commerce from Bond University.

During her career Karen has been awarded numerous national travel industry awards for innovation and business success, as well as being twice nominated for the Telstra Business Women’s Awards, where she was a finalist in 2001 at the age of 29.

SPECIAL AWARD Our esteemed Vice-President, Dr Robert W. Gibson, was awarded a prestigious life membership of the Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand at the AFAANZ annual conference in Sydney in early July for his exceptional contribution to accounting education and research in Australia. Dr Gibson served on the Board of AFAANZ during 1972-1975.

In the 40 plus year history of AFAANZ, only 17 life memberships have been awarded. No life membership has been awarded since 2000.

Dr Gibson served as President of AAANZ during 1973-1974 and was the first President of the Association to be appointed from a College of Advanced Education. He served also on the Accounting History Special Interest Group (AHSIG), both as Chairman and as an academic leader, and also as co-editor with Barrie O’Keefe of the Accounting History Newsletter.

A selection of the contributions which appeared in the Accounting History Newsletter under Dr Gibson’s co-editorship and in the initial series of Accounting History during his editorship were reproduced in an anthology, that was published in 1996 in his honour entitled Accounting History Newsletter, 1980-1989 and Accounting History, 1989-1994: A Tribute to Robert William Gibson.

Dr Gibson remains one of the most senior retired accounting academics in Australia.

Graduate Council

As a very special offer to members of the Graduate Union, Karen is happy to make international bookings free of service fees. She will also take 20% off the cost of travel insurance for bookings made with her agency. Karen offers full travel agency services booking flights, hotels, cruises, tours and car hire, plus the expertise in food and wine travel if required.

Mr Douglas Proctor recently joined Graduate Council as a representative of the Vice-Chancellor, following the resignation of Dr Carolyn O’Brien. Douglas recently joined the University of Melbourne as Manager, International Relations and is now heading up the International Relations Office within Melbourne International.

He has over ten years experience in the internationalisation of higher education, both as an academic and as a professional staff member, and has worked in universities in France, New Caledonia and Victoria. Most recently, he was Director, Academic Partnerships and International Relations at Deakin University, a role in which he had broad responsibility for international relations strategy and implementation, as well as oversight of a wide range of that University’s institutional partnerships.

Currently Karen is working with the CEO, Eugene Spanti, developing a very exciting small group tour for members to travel to southern Italy in September 2009. To register your interest or find out more, please call Karen on 9889 5987 or email her on Karen@foodandwinetravel.com.au

Douglas brings to the University of Melbourne a clear understanding of the international challenges facing global institutions, a solid background in international relations (from partnership development and diplomatic engagement to visit management and institutional responses to overseas crises), as well as experience across the international portfolio more broadly.

In her spare time Karen enjoys keeping fit, cooking at home, eating out around Melbourne, learning about wine, cellar door tastings and ballroom dancing. She has two cats and lives in Hawthorn East with her partner.

November 2008 Volume 61 No.4 –

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE

LUNCHEON SPEAKERS August

Associate Professor Philomena Murray If you enter “crisis” and “Europe” into Google you get over 58 million entries. Does this mean that we should surmise from this that the European Union (EU) is in crisis? asked Associate Professor Philomena Murray in her address to the August luncheon. Europe has many faces and many challenges, and the temptation to reflect on current crises leads people to contemplate and perhaps privilege the negative. In her address Professor Murray discussed the challenges and achievements of the EU, saying that in the current week, European Voice a newspaper covering the EU, had reported on more than 13 crises. One could be forgiven for thinking the EU is at least dying, if not already dead as some journalists report. While the EU is the subject of both admiration and criticism, it is most admired for its transformation of a continent torn by violence into one of the world’s most prosperous and peaceful regions. Although some may see its policies as anti-Australian, the EU is Australia’s largest trading partner and the Australian government has recognised the need to form a major agreement with the EU. It may seem to be a protectionist bloc yet it projects its ideas of human rights across the globe. Philomena Murray was a engaging speaker with a very keen mind and the ability to translate ideas into easily understood language.

Her sense of humour was infectious and her Irish accent beguiling.

September Dr Piero Genovesi In the late nineteenth century three young Italian engineers and a lawyer from Pisa and Florence were canny enough to describe themselves as labourers in order to secure assisted passage to New Zealand. On completion of the four months voyage to Wellington they did not find the opportunities they expected. These resourceful young men then described themselves as Irish miners in order to get to Marvellous Melbourne in 1876. Engineer Carlo Catani supervised the draining of the Koo Wee Rup swamp and left his name on locality, street and gardens, the later Catani Gardens in St Kilda being well known. Engineer Ettore Checchi did valuable hydrological work on the Murray River. Engineer Pietro Baracchi became the Melbourne Astronomical Observatory and was important in the establishment of the Mt Stromolo Observatory in Canberra. The lawyer, Dr Ferdinando Gagliardi became assistant librarian at what is now the State Library in 1884 and is highly praised in the records of the library. Dr Gagliardi never sought the top position in the library because he had another side interest. In Hampton he established a large plantation of mulberry trees to support a silkworm industry and is known to have produced a large and valuable amount of silk. Also, he died at an early age and there does not remain any trace of the mulberry plantation.

This was the fascinating story recounted by Dr Piero Genovesi at the three September luncheon. Dr Genovesi is Director of the Italian Australian Institute at LaTrobe University. He has been part of academic life in Melbourne and LaTrobe Universities since 1978. In thanking Dr Genovesi the Vice-President, Dr Robert Gibson noted that there is a peculiar historical link between Australians from the Anglo-Celtic and Italian traditions. William, a Norman, conquered Great Britain and later another Norman conquered Sicily. The Norman influence can be seen in the buildings in both places to this day. A visit to one or other of these parts of the world is a surprise to many from the other background. A shared cultural tradition possibly makes it easier to move from one culture to the other. Dr Genovesi gave an account of this remarkable group describing themselves variously as Italian labourers and Irish miners. They were more correctly a quartet of educated Italians who arrived in Melbourne when it was still part of New South Wales. Each left an inheritance which is evident today.

– November 2008 Volume 61 No.4

October

Professor Tim McCormack David Hicks and the Charade of Guantanamo Bay was the topic for Professor McCormack’s luncheon address. Professor McCormack spoke about his time as adviser to Major Mori during his defence of David Hicks. He took pains to assure his audience that while not antiAmerican, he deplored the actions of the Bush Administration which, he said, were basically illegal and inconsistent with the Constitution of the USA and international law. It has been argued incorrectly, said Professor McCormack, that Guantanamo Bay does not come under USA law or its Constitution and this has led to a lack of fair trial rights such as the admission of hearsay evidence, the addition of new offences to the violations of the law of war and the re-defining of torture.

He applauded the fearless and independent approach of Major Mori who was willing to bring down the system if necessary in his defence of a fair trial. It was said of Major Mori, that while he might be similar in looks to Gomer Pyle, he argued like Atticus Finch! Major Mori’s involvement in the David Hicks saga has cost him promotion and will likely result in his resignation from the armed forces. He recounted an experience he had had in Major Mori’s company when upon leaving Archbishop Freier’s office they were ‘mobbed’ by a large crowd of admirers and well wishers.

Professor McCormack said he found it gratifying, if somewhat unusual, that someone pursuing principles and moral issues should be granted ‘celebrity’ status. Professor McCormack said David Hicks was lucky his plight had been publicized in an election year and that John Howard was a ‘mate’ of George Bush - not all inmates of Guantanamo Bay are so lucky.

Twilight Lectures SERIES The second lecture in the USA ELECTION SERIES was held on 28 August and Associate Professor David Tucker, Reader in Political Science at the University of Melbourne spoke about the personalities of the candidates, the groups to which they appealed and the strategies he believed each would employ to win.

Barak Obama as the first Black president, he said, appeals to minority groups and the intellectuals who see him in much the same way as John F Kennedy was seen in the 1960s when he became the first Catholic President. The media have embraced Obama and his campaign. He has become a celebrity. There is a momentum by young people towards Obama and the symbolism of a new concept of ‘American’.

Many have lost sight of the expertise and experience John McCain would bring to the presidency. The media are not neutral. John McCain will find it difficult to get across that he stands for principles and independent minds. He will have an uphill battle to avoid being ‘tarred with the same brush’ as fellow republican, George W Bush, whose presidency has been described by some as the worst in American history.

All in all, David Tucker said that, while the situation appears highly favourable for Barak Obama who he deems an ‘unsafe’ choice, the result will be decided in nine ‘battleground’ states where there is substantial support for McCain. The race is very close and the result will depend partly on who gets the biggest ‘bounce’ from their convention and who organises the largest voting turnout. The Obama campaign will focus on John McCain’s age rather than his experience, while the McCain camp will endeavour to keep Obama on the back foot by focusing on the several embarrassments and dubious dealings which have come to light during the campaign.

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE Visitors to Graduate House Professor Lisa Guay-Woodford

T

he first week in September was the occasion for an influx of visitors accommodated at Graduate House for a symposium on mechanisms of kidney disease at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

The main speaker was Lisa Guay-Woodford, Professor of Genetics and Paediatrics from the University of Alabama who was the 8th Florence May McCredie lecturer for the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Her lecture was on New Insights into the Development of Renal Cystic Disease and this was followed by research presentations from Professors Tony Poole and Mike Eccles from Dunedin, New Zealand and Professor Melissa Little from Brisbane, all of Mike Eccles, Tony Poole, Lisa Guay-Woodford, Milissa Little, David McCredie. whom were staying at Graduate House.

Interesting research was also presented by local colleagues from Monash Medical Centre, Austin Hospital and the Murdoch Institute, together with a poster presentation from inspiring researchers. Following the presentation, John McCredie presented Lisa with a copy of his book, Survival of the Fortunate.

A very stimulating afternoon concluded with an excellent dinner at Graduate House.

The symposium was sponsored by an Education Grant from Amgen Pharmaceuticals.

Staff News David Tey David joined the team as Operations Manager in mid-July. He has lived in Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and moved permanently to Australia three and a half years ago. With his background in civil engineering and in management roles for more then 20 years, he has been able to take on his duties at Graduate House quickly.

He looks forward to meeting resident students from all over the world. Having stayed in a hostel when he was an overseas university student, he hopes that his experience will be put to good use. Being a member of a university graduate club in Singapore for 15 years, he sees the value and importance of the Graduate Union to its members.

David enjoys tending to his garden during the weekends and hopes to contribute positively in meeting the needs of the residents and members at Graduate House.

Sujata Manandhar Sujata is a qualified chef and says she is very happy to be part of the Graduate House team. She completed her studies in Nepal before moving to Australia to continue her career.

In addition to traditional Nepalese food, Sujata is also experienced in Indian cookery and this skill has been put to good use recently as many of the residents this year have been from India. Everyone enjoys the different and sometimes exotic flavours of Sujata’s cooking.

As well as producing mouth-watering dishes at lunchtime, Sujata is also the breakfast chef. She enjoys starting her day with the residents and creating tasty and interesting dishes for them before they start their busy day.

Stella Langford Project Update The APM Group (Aust) Pty Ltd took over the Stella Langford Site on 13 October 2008.

You couldn’t see much happening from the street, but a great deal was going on behind the gates in planning and preparation of the building site. The whole area has become a ‘closed site’ which means no one may enter without the permission of the site manager and with a hard hat. Two signs to this effect have been erected on the gate and on the back fencing of the loading bay.

On site, activities have included tree removal, soil testing and bulk excavation and investigation works, and towards the end of October piling and a plumbing investigation.

By November, preparation for ground slab structures was underway and it is anticipated that the concrete slab and foundation for the back section will be poured prior to the Christmas shut down.

DONORS TO THE STELLA LANGFORD PROJECT APPEAL AT 20th OCTOBER: $7,556.00 Mr L Bailey, Dr D Beavis, Mr G Bolz, Mrs E Brown, Mrs E Brooks, Miss E Butt, Mrs J Davidson, Dr J Dawkins, Prof J Epstein, Mrs L Lane, Dr R Marginson, Mrs E Medling, Mr J Mel, Ms M Menzies, Mr E Miller,

Ms W Morsby, Sir L Muir, Mrs J Mulholland, Mr D Pemberton, Mrs J Pretty, Mrs V Rae, Mr R Rye, Mr L Thomson, Mr W Thorn, Prof B Tress, Prof N Tulloh, Miss J Wellings, Mr G White

November 2008 Volume 61 No.4 –

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE (Continue from Page 1)

HEAD OF COLLEGE TRAVELS TO CHINA Eugene to a meeting with Associate Professor Dr Rattachat Mongkolnavin to discuss the benefits of reciprocity. It is anticipated an agreement will be signed in due course.

EVENTS

Karaoke Christmas in July

The trip had its moments of personal malfunctions when Eugene discovered after 20 hours flying that his new mobile phone had not been programmed for overseas roaming and his luggage had remained in Hong Kong while he travelled to Beijing. Then, to add insult to injury, the promised hotel car did not meet him at Shanghai Airport.

After several frantic phone calls back to Melbourne, thankfully, everything came together beautifully in the end. On the upside, Eugene tells us the Chinese airlines are brilliant both for efficiency and service, Beijing Duck eaten in Beijing is fabulous, and the Shanghai Dumplings are ‘to die for’.

AHAUCHI Conference The Melbourne Chapter of the Heads of Colleges group hosted the 2008 conference throughout the first week in October. Many of those attending from interstate stayed at Graduate House and it turned out to be a very social week with delegates gathering in the lounge at the end of each day to relax and chat about the day’s events. The week culminated with the end-of-conference luncheon at Graduate House with prizes and gifts being given out for various achievements throughout the week.

The chef excelled with an innovative and top class menu and the luncheon concluded with an enthusiastic ovation for the catering team, who were introduced to the assembled guests.

Companies offering discounts to Graduate Union Members

Australian Unity, Hertz, Pathfinder Coaching, Pickford Pharmacy, Non-Profit Purchasing, DeBortoli Wines, Food and Wine Travel

– November 2008 Volume 61 No.4

R

esidents had a fun evening on 29 July when Christmas in July was celebrated with a worldwide flavour and karaoke. The evening commencing quietly with pre-dinner canapes and drinks at the bar. Dinner was a blend of Australian traditional ham and turkey and international festive dishes, such as Coucherie (an Egyptian rice and noodle dish) prepared by Basma, and Sujata’s Asian contribution of deliciously rich Butter Chicken and Mali Kofta (an Indian potato dumpling dish). There were desserts of traditional Christmas pudding, berry cheesecake and rich chocolate cake to finish. Excellent prizes such as televisions and travel vouchers ensured there was no shortage of singers, and the dining room rocked to the beat of current songs and old favourites, with many first-class voices to be heard.

SPECIAL OFFER

Graduate House presents the ideal Gift -

DeBortoli Black Noble

in a special presentation box - $55 ea

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS The President, Chairman, Councillors, Head of College and staff extend Best Wishes to all members for the coming Christmas Season and for a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

Open for Lunch and Dinner - 7 Days Private Room Available 10% off meals for Graduate Union Members Tuesday to Thursday on presentation of card. (Discount applies to groups of 6 or less) 766 Whitehorse Road, Mont Albert, Vic. 3127 Tel: 03 9898 5188 Fax: 03 9898 5348

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE

R esidents Andrew Smith A New Zealander, Andrew Smith arrived in Melbourne at the start of March 2008 to begin a PhD in English Literature, researching the eighteenth and early nineteenth century’s interest in ruins. Andrew came to Graduate House from London, where he flirted briefly with the real world, working for 18 months in the publishing industry. He originally went to the UK in September 2005 to undertake an MPhil degree in Eighteenth Century and Romantic Literature, and while he thought that would be the end of his academic career, he’s come back for more. He has now spent almost more time at university than he did at primary and secondary school combined, and says he knows less now than he did then. His move to Melbourne is actually something of a homecoming, as he lived in the city for a couple of years when he was a lot younger. Luckily, he made a decision to support the mighty Hawthorn Hawks when he was five, meaning that he was able to boast about his team being one top of the AFL Premiership teams without being accused of “jumping on the bandwagon”. On the other hand, performances of the New Zealand cricket team through the year tested his patriotism. If you are looking for him, Andrew will be watching sport in the TV room.

Petra Helmholz Petra is an occupational trainee at the Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information (University of Melbourne). She came over from Hanover where she works at the Institute of Photogrammetry. Prior to Petra starting her work at the University of Hanover, she became an Engineer of Surveying after her study of Geomatics at the Technical University of Berlin, and an Assessor after her time in Saxony-Anhalt. She came to Australia not only to work in the field of Remote Sensing, but also to improve her English skills, to meet lots of new friends and to experience the Australian way of life. Petra is impressed by the nature and country side in the land ‘Down Under’ which she has studied during numerous trips throughout Australia. Unfortunately, Petra will leave before the end of the year. She says she will miss Melbourne and Australia and has vowed to return. She is already looking forward to this date!

Nariman Farshadi-Azar I am from Toronto, Canada. I conducted my HBSc from the University of Toronto in Biochemistry. I am currently pursuing my studies in Dentistry at the University of Melbourne and I am also doing research with the University of Melbourne Dental Association in synthesizing chemical agents that could perhaps cure some of the periodontal diseases. I am currently enjoying my stay in Australia within the lovely environment of Graduate House. People here are very friendly and approachable. The staff are very helpful and there for residents at all times. Graduate House is very close to the University which makes it an easy walk to classes.

Jing-Hao Xue Jing-Hao received his PhD degree in Statistics from the University of Glasgow, Scotland in July 2008.

He worked with the University of Melbourne as a research associate during the Australian winter and recently returned to England to continue enjoying winter sunshine there.

Anushree Godha I have recently completed my Masters in Applied Commerce (Marketing) from University of Melbourne. I must say time is ticking and slipping away quickly. It has already been two years for me living in Melbourne.

Especially, the last six months have been stimulating for me living at Graduate House and meeting people from diverse faculties and countries.

At this stage of my life, when I am looking for a job in the fast moving consumer goods industry (FMCG), it is good to have a lot of support from my fellow residents here. Meals are a good time to socialise and unwind. Weekends are the times to catch up on the international films at the infamous TV lounge. Meeting fellow residents here has enabled me to pursue my interests like dance, sports (table tennis, badminton, swimming, adventure, etc), movies, cooking and travel. The winter break was exciting as we went to Lake Mountain to ski, and enjoyed a couple of the bicycle trails along the city. Next on the cards is sky diving!

Working as a kitchen hand on casual basis at the Graduate House has helped me develop my hidden talents in cooking. Thanks to the staff at Graduate House my stay has been really comfortable.

Aryana Rousseau Aryana is an exchange student studying Law here at Melbourne University. She grew up in rural Prince Edward Island, Canada, and completed a Bachelor of Arts in Classics and History at Dalhousie University in 2003.

After moving to the big city of Montreal, Canada, Aryana worked for two years as an immigration paralegal at a small Montreal law firm. This experience inspired her to pursue legal studies at McGill University Faculty of Law in Montreal. She is doing a joint degree in civil law and common law at McGill. Aryana is thrilled to be in Australia and plans to travel throughout Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia once her studies are complete. In May 2009, she will return to Montreal to complete her Articles at the Law firm of Blakes, Cassels and Graydon.

Mari Fitzpatrick Mari is currently undertaking research in international and local development in western China. Originally from Melbourne, she worked in the international development industry for ten years and managed programs for China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Lao PDR. Mari completed her Masters at University of Melbourne on child labour and has been accepted by the Department of Philosophy, Anthropology and Environment (PATE) at University of Melbourne where she will complete her PhD. During 2007-2008 Mari spent seven months in Yunnan Province China, as part of language training and prefieldwork research for her thesis.

Raymond Lam I come from Hong Kong, and am now studying 1st-year PhD in the Faculty of Land and Food Resources of The University of Melbourne.

I will focus on something related to climate change, in particular greenhouse gas fluxes and nutrient dynamics in wheat fields. As I am here for only a short time, I have visited as many different places as possible, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, the Shrine of Remembrance, China Town, etc., and supported the Beijing Olympic torch relay in Canberra. I would like to discover more places and cultures in Melbourne and other parts of Australia in future.

November 2008 Volume 61 No.4 –

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE

FROM THE HEAD OF COLLEGE The year 2008 has been full of activity with accommodation and conferencing at record levels. The popular monthly luncheons and wine appreciation dinners have continued to attract many members and the introduction of cooking classes has proven to be popular. The twilight lecture series will continue in 2009, although a theme is yet to be decided.

Since the August edition of The Melbourne Graduate,what a very busy three months we have had! Following the unanimous support given by members at the Annual General Meeting at the end of May, Graduate Council met at a Special Meeting on 14 July and officially moved to proceed with the calling of tenders. Since then it has been all action.

Tenders were called at the end of July and, following the one month tender period, the preferred builder was selected from a short list of five, four of whom were within the anticipated price range.

I have pleasure in advising that the APM Group (Aust) Pty Ltd has been selected to complete the work. Construction commenced in early October, and completion is anticipated by October 2009.

This year has seen Graduate House take up the ‘environmental challenge’ with all incandescent globes being replaced with the more energy efficient LED and compact fluorescent lighting. This was quite a feat as Graduate House has more than one hundred lights. It was a very expensive exercise which took a great deal of time. Maintenance and updating of facilities is an ongoing task at Graduate House.

A Fundraising Committee was convened in late July and members were notified of the Stella Langford Project Appeal in the last newsletter. I will include an update about construction progress and the fundraising effort in coming editions of The Melbourne Graduate.

I ask you to consider the Graduate Union when looking for a worthwhile cause to support. The University Graduates Club and Graduate House is your club and we hope members will continue to support their club as it strives to offer more facilities and services to its resident and non-resident members alike.

My very best wishes to you all for a joyful Christmas. Thank you most sincerely for your continued support and generosity.

I look forward to a very exciting year ahead.

Eugene Spanti

% To:

The Graduate Union

220 Leicester Street

Carlton Vic 3053

Please send me information regarding Wills and Bequests to The Graduate Union

I/We would like to make a donation to THE GRADUATE UNION ANNUAL APPEAL (Please select) Stella Langford Building Project naming rights of accommodation rooms naming rights of conference areas

Building Fund - for the upkeep of the Graduate House Terraces

Residents’ Assistance Fund - to assist residents experiencing financial difficulties

Residential Bursaries/Scholarship Program

Enclosed is my cheque/money order for $........................ or please debit this amount to my credit card account M/card

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– November 2008 Volume 61 No.4