Getamungstit - The Summer Edition (August 2016) by Student Guild

THE

SUMMER

EDITION

ISSUE 06, VOLUME 02 OCTOBER 2016 EDITORIAL TEAM Jessica Brown - Editor in Chief Rebecca Marshallsay - Editor in Chief Erwan Guegan - General Content Editor Angel Nikijuluw - Visual Editor Hayley Payne - General Content Editor Ashleigh Watson - Features Editor PUBLISHER Cameron Harrison TALENTED CONTRIBUTORS Cover artwork Jessica Taszer Editorial Azaria Bell - Jessica Brown - Holly Driscoll Caitlin Erasmus - Erwan Guegan Cameron Harrison - Monique Hotchin Zak Johnson - Rebecca Marshallsay Angel Nikijuluw - Christian Nimri Elleanor O’Connell - Hayley Payne Ashleigh Watson Creative Samantha Armatys - Sam Dunn Zarek Hennessy - Erika Kunde - Sahib Nazari Keegan Powhiro - Hudson Tesoriero Photographic Holly Knight - Ella McMillan Christian Nimri DESIGN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Email us at getamungstit@griffith.edu.au

Griffith University Gold Coast Student Guild acknowledges the people who are the traditional custodians of the land, pays respects to Elders, past and present, and extends that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

DISCLAIMER

SUBMISSIONS Are you a budding student journalist, photographer or have a random idea that could be a great story? Getamungstit accepts art, photo and story submissions for consideration however there is no guarantee your work will be published.

The opinions expressed in this publication may not reflect those of the Griffith University Gold Coast Student Guild. The information contained within this edition of Getamungstit was correct at the time of printing but could be subject to change. If any article, document and/ or publication is inaccessible and you require copies and/or more information, contact the Student Guild where staff will ensure your requests and needs are met.

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Contents

16 32

40 68

Editorial note

Message from the President

Contributor spotlight

Vox pop

Trimesters in 2017: Your questions answered

Top five ways to make your summer count

Surviving a Contiki

Saving money over summer

Internship 101

Summer smoothies and cocktails

World Bog Snorkelling Championships

How to successfully throw a Friendsmas

Be a traveller, not a tourist

The perfect summer body

Downtime on film

Product review - Summer staples

Snapped on campus

Fashion - Three days, three ways

Feature artist - Olivia Heath

Online

Entertainment

Being creative

Get the hell outta here

EDITORIAL NOTE

It’s finally here! The days are longer, hem-lines are shorter, and the air is getting thick. If you’re a summer lover (like me), you’ll be rejoicing that the beach is finally warm enough for us nonsurfers to take more than a quick refreshing dip. This summer you’ll find me floating out behind the surf, lolling over the waves before they break, or stretched out on the sand (50+ SPF lathered on thick of course) with a big book in hand. This edition of Geta serves up some tasty summer reading for you too. Along with an absolutely jam-packed short story section, we’ve got heaps of summer tips inside – fresh recipes, hot tunes, and plenty of advice for making the most of your time off-campus. The summer break is a notoriously long one for uni students. The six weeks you had off in school seemed like an age, but three months is something else. There is so much you can do with that time – you could, of course, rack up some further courses in the summer semester. But if you’re anything like I am you won’t want to be thinking about the inside of a classroom. The inside of a shopping centre or cool dark cinema, sure, when the humidity is so heavy you can hardly think. But you could take some lessons of a different kind. A DIY cocktail making class, for instance. No teachers, no exams, just a whole lot of sweet trial-and-error fun. Between the tanning and the summer romance, it might also be wise to think about picking up some work – seasonal, volunteer, or maybe as an intern. Hayley’s got five hot ideas for making your summer a productive one.

And let’s not forget, the heat in this hemisphere also brings another annual kind of fun – Christmas! While the glow of unwrapping Mr Claus’ presents may have worn off for some (or maybe not!), Angel has another bright idea: Friendsmas. All the fun of Christmas - food, laughter, presents – but no ‘so do you have a boyfriend yet?’ or ‘what are you doing with your life?’ questions from Grandma. If you’re leaving the shining Gold Coast for some overseas adventure, don’t miss Erwan’s piece on traveling before you go. Are you a tourist or a traveller? Do you have your Instagram line-up all planned out, or are you ready to just go with the flow? Erwan might make you think twice about your ‘50 things you must do here’ Trip Advisor list. Finally, do not miss the four short stories we have from Hudson, Zarek, Sam and Sahib. These pieces were all performed at the annual Griffith Friends of the Library Masters and Slaves event, where Griffith students take on the ‘Big Writers’ – Nick Cave, Virginia Woolf, Marguerite Duras and the Bronte sisters respectively. Well, that’s all from us for another year. Thanks to all our gorgeous contributors and you, our amazing readers, for making 2016 a beauty! See you on the other side!

The Geta Editorial Team

Editorial note

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Summer is so close - you can smell it in the air (potentially the BO of your classmates). This is the final Getamungstit for the year, and I really hope you have enjoyed reading them. The Editorial Team and contributors continue to refine this publication, taking great pride in its work, which is reflected in the quality of material we get to enjoy each month or so. The Student Guild Board will soon welcome several new Board members. Nominations for Board positions have just closed, and if you are reading this hot off the press, you are just in time to vote! Student Guild Elections will be held 11-13 October where you can vote for your student representatives. Your Student Guild Board meets regularly to ensure your University experience is maximised, aiming to represent YOU and your needs. We welcome feedback and suggestions - just get in touch with any of us! Our summer break will be spent working with staff developing events, services and other surprises for 2017; aka the year of the trimester… Congratulations to our team of athletes who competed recently at the Australian University Games in Perth - we will be celebrating their achievements and those of our cultural clubs at our Student Guild Awards 21 October. It is truly amazing and inspiring to hear about the adventures of all of our clubs on this evening - what they can accomplish while studying is quite incredible. With only a few weeks left of the semester it’s not too late to enjoy some epic events, with Oktoberfest this weekend (15 October), Guild Awards, Halloween Party and an island camping trip on Straddie (all before exams)!! If, like me, you are suffering ‘end of year-itis’

perhaps our Stress Less Week from 24-28 October is what you need. Whichever event you choose to attend, please please please be on the ball when it comes to buying tickets, as there haven’t been many (if any) events that haven’t sold out this year, so I’d hate for anyone to miss out on the final events! The success of the events is a credit to our events and marketing staff, as well as the committed Guild Crew volunteers who make them run ever so smoothly on the day/night. This will be my final Getamungstit submission as President, as I am due to graduate this year. Without writing myself a eulogy - after five years on the Student Guild Board (three as President), I must reflect on what a valuable experience I have enjoyed with those around me. I’d especially like to thank all of our dedicated staff members for supporting myself and fellow students throughout our time at University, making our experience on campus truly memorable. Thanks to the Board for the fun and interesting meetings, despite numerous debates and challenges I believe we have made a positive difference to this place, leaving a legacy for future students to enjoy. Good luck with exams, have a safe and enjoyable holiday, congratulations to recent graduates and we’ll see the rest of you next year!

Cheers, Cameron Cameron Harrison Student Guild President Griffith University Gold Coast

HIDDEN CITIZEN

GRADUATE EXHIBITION 2016 QCA GOLD COAST

FRIDAY NOV 25TH 2016 6:30 PM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00 PM UNI BAR FUNCTION CENTRE THE LINK G07 Launch of the 2016 Hidden Citizen magazine. Copies available on the night. Cash bar open from 5:30 pm

Facebook Event: http://bit.ly/2dBbj0V

Contributor spotlight This edition we turn the spotlight onto Monique Hotchin, who joined the talented Getamungstit contributor team late last year. You may remember reading her film or book review in the Green Edition, or short story Bubbble Gum and Scraped Knees in the Sport and Leisure Edition. We asked Monique what she enjoys about writing and of course, how she will be spending the upcoming summer break.

What are you currently studying? I am studying a Bachelor of Public Relations and Communication and majoring in literature.

Why did you want to get involved with Geta? The main reason why I got involved with the magazine was because I thought it was cool. I came across it a while ago now, and I remember knowing that I really wanted to write a piece and see my words printed on a page.

What do you enjoy about writing? There’s a certain freedom to writing which I really like. There aren’t a lot of boundaries and you can literally create a world to explore. You can do whatever you want to! I often use writing as a creative outlet and tend to let my imagination run wild.

monique hotchin

Since this is the Summer Edition can you tell us: What is your favourite beach? I’m actually not a beachy person. Like, I hate the beach. Which is strange since I’ve only ever lived on the Gold Coast. But, if I had to pick a beach I would say The Spit because it’s dog friendly.

What is your favourite summer activity? Consuming as many Zooper Doopers as I possibly can and binge watching as many TV shows as I possibly can.

Do you have any plans for the holidays? No, nothing planned yet. Probably a lot of sleeping though.

What do you like to write about? I don’t have a genre or style that I tend to stick with, I like exploring different ideas and literary genres. I often write stories that have a flare to them, even if that flare is a little on the darker side. I like to write stories that have otherworldly elements, but keep the characters grounded with real life problems and conflicts. I also adore science fiction and anything mythological.

VOX POP

What is your favourite thing about summer?

Andrew, Bachelor of Exercise Science The beach!

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re diving into your pool of thoughts for this summer edition of Vox pop. Christian Nimri

Haley, Bachelor of Exercise Science Playsuits and ice cream.

Jack, Bachelor of Engineering Working in the sun with my shirt off!

Vox pop

Favourite summer spot on the GC?

Your plans for summer in three words?

Natasha, Bachelor of Science Palm Beach.

Niki, Bachelor of Digital Media Get a tan!

Christian, Bachelor of Psychology Narrowneck Beach.

Sam, Bachelor of Exercise Science Sleep, sleep, sleep.

Ian, Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science Burleigh Heads.

Natalie, Bachelor of Law Lots of drinking.

What TV series are you planning to binge watch this summer?

Karim, Bachelor of Law & Psychology Mr. Robot.

Riley, Bachelor of Psychology Parks and Recreation.

Nicole, Bachelor of MD Orange Is the New Black.

Alyssa, Bachelor of Psychology Stranger Things.

Vox pop

last market day of the semester - 19 october!

$5 lunches | fashion | bargains live acoustic music chill out area | games area location: library lawn

Trimesters in 2017 YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Hayley Payne

Are we changing to trimesters?

You should be aware by now that Griffith will be changing to a trimester system starting next year (if not, you have surely been living under a rock). From what we have heard, it has quite a few students confused. So Geta is here with some handy information to make the transition smooth sailing, and your summer break as stress free as possible.

DIVING INTO THE FIRST TRIMESTER!

SO WHAT EVEN IS A TRIMESTER? There will now be three teaching periods on the Griffith University academic calendar. Each trimester will be 12 weeks of teaching.

Orientation 20 Feb - 24 Feb

Teaching weeks 27 Feb - 26 May

TRIMESTER 1 2017 ACADEMIC CALENDAR DATES

Study Week 29 May - 2 Jun

Trimesters in 2017

Exam Period 3 Jun - 17 Jun

FAQ DOES THIS CHANGE WHEN WE START? No changes will be made to the start-back date in February. Trimester 1 will commence on 27 February 2017. Trimester 2 will begin in July and Trimester 3 in October.

OKAY, WHY DID THEY DO IT? More flexibility and accelerated degrees, plus many more opportunities. Depending on your degree you may be able to fast track your learning, do a couple of extra internships or even decrease your workload each trimester and still graduate when you would have on the semester system.

DO I HAVE TO STUDY IN TRIMESTER 3? For both international and domestic students Trimester 3 will not be compulsory, but Trimester 1 and 2 will be. However, you will need to be careful and ensure you are meeting required study loads if you receive Centrelink payments.

WILL ALL PROGRAMS BE OFFERED IN TRIMESTER 3? Unfortunately, not all programs will be offered for study in the third trimester. To check out your degree-specific information head to degrees.griffith.edu.au.

SO NOW WE HAVE 12 WEEKS OF TEACHING INSTEAD OF 13, HOW? Never fear, all programs have been redeveloped and evaluated to ensure all course content will fit into the new 12 week teaching trimester.

WAIT, MOST IMPORTANTLY: HOW WILL THIS AFFECT MY HOLIDAYS? Depending on how you embrace the trimester system will influence how your holiday periods are affected. The break between Trimester 1 and 2 will now be two weeks instead of three. If you do choose to study in Trimester 3, you won’t finish your study year until somewhere in the exam period of 10-17 February. Then you’ll be back at uni around the 27 February – so not a long summer break at all. However, if you opt out of Trimester 3, you’ll find yourself with four long months of summer break. So it really will differ from person to person.

If you’re still feeling a bit confused check out the Trimester FAQs on the Griffith website. There is also a specific document for international students for visa questions and enquiries.

TOP FIVE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR SUMMER COUNT Hayley Payne

Our long awaited summer break is almost here. It won’t be long until exams are behind us and we are free to do whatever we want for three long months. Many students will already have their summers set with travel plans, but for those staying at home it is time to start thinking about how you’re going to spend your summer. While the summer holidays are a time to relax and recuperate after a crazy year, they are definitely not to be wasted. When February arrives with the realisation that you have achieved nothing you have set out to do, it is time to reassess your priorities. If you are stuck for ideas, here are five great ways to ensure you have a productive summer.

Find an internship

Get a summer job

You’ve heard it 1000 times already, but it is true these days that just having your degree isn’t enough. Graduates are no longer unique in the job market, with the majority of employers expecting every applicant to have 500 years of experience in the field on top of their degree. Some of us are lucky and complete internships as part of our degrees, but even if you do, why not spend your summer gaining some real-life experience? There are loads of internships available over summer and the great thing about them is you can find both paid and unpaid work. You can learn some new skills and it helps you to figure out what kind of work you want after graduation. It’s a win-win situation.

If you don’t work during the year or just want to save up some extra cash over summer, then a summer job is for you. There are so many great places to find work over summer, with a lot of employers just seeking staff for the busy Christmas period and the gig usually ends right before you head back to uni – perfect! Keep an eyeout around October/November on different job sites for local shopping centres, the theme parks, lifeguarding, tourist attractions and many more to nab an amazing summer job.

Top five ways to make your summer count

Volunteer

Have a checklist

Learn something new

If you have a heap of spare time over the holidays, why not sign up for some volunteering? The great thing about volunteering is that you can basically do whatever you want as there are so many opportunities out there. Want to give back to the community? Sign up to help out a local charity. Want to score free entry to some cool events? Sign up to volunteer at music festivals and local and community events. Plus, you can even find volunteering opportunities in your field of study to add the experience to your resume.

Maybe you’ve decided that you don’t want to do anything uni or work related these holidays, and simply just want to chill and relax. This is perfectly fine, but often all those great things you were planning on doing during your free time are forgotten, simply because it can be too easy to flop out of bed and straight onto the couch. Enter: the checklist. Even though summer bucket lists are a little cliché, they are the best way to ensure your free time is productive. Write down everything you want to experience over the summer and tick it off as you go. That way you won’t forget anything and you’ll have an awesome record of all the cool things you did for when you’re back studying and dreaming of summer days.

I know you’re probably thinking that there is no way you want to study during your summer holidays – but hear me out. We get a whopping three months off each year. That is so much time to learn the things you always wish you knew, but aren’t necessarily in your field of study. Want to learn how cheese is made? This is the perfect time to do it. It is also the perfect time to learn desired skills in your field that your degree may not offer, or to finally master how to use Excel and other programs that employers just assume we know. Take advantage of free trials on online learning platforms like Lynda or even find some free online courses to study in your down time. Trust me, it’s worth it.

It is time to start thinking about how you want to spend the summer of 2016/2017. Once you graduate there is no way your employer will give you three months off over summer, so make the most of it while it lasts! 15

Surviving a Contiki Hayley Payne

Plan how you’ll approach nights out

The end of semester is becoming closer by the day. So close in fact that it is time to start making any summer holiday travel plans. For many of us the go-to overseas trips are Contiki and TopDeck tours. These days it is basically a rite of passage to go on one of these 18-30s tours at some point in your life. They are cheap, they plan everything for you, you get to see loads of countries and you can have a diverse range of experiences in a short amount of time. This all sounds like a winwin right? Well, yes and no. Ask anyone who has been on a Contiki tour and they will share with you the most outrageous, wonderful, unbelievable and downright idiotic stories of what they got up to on their trip. So how do you ensure that you have an amazing time, while arriving back home with at least a few shreds of dignity intact?

Establish social media ground rules After the first day of the tour you will start to wonder if there was ever a time when you didn’t know your tour group. Once any initial awkwardness has settled, set some ground rules for photo uploads. Right now you’re probably thinking ‘what photos could be that bad?’ There will be some things that nobody outside your tour family should ever see. Even if you’re not a big drinker these photos will still emerge (trust me). If you’re super smart, you’ll change your profile settings so that you have to approve all photo tags. However, even then the photos will still exist, so be sure to specify to the group what images are okay to be uploaded and which should stay between the group.

Surviving a Contiki

Contiki and TopDeck tours are notorious for lots and lots of nights out. Don’t be surprised if there are people on your tour who spend literally every night at a nightclub and then sleep all day on the bus. It is really up to you how much you want to party during the trip, but try to think about it before the trip starts. If you don’t factor in all the money you’re going to spend on alcohol, you could see your budget disappear much quicker than expected. It is also a good idea to consider whether you should have an early night before any big days or exciting trips. Why you ask? Well, on my TopDeck trip a friend was still drunk from his night out the next morning. This would have been all well and good, if that morning he hadn’t been jumping out of a helicopter over the Swiss Alps. He definitely enjoyed the experience at the time, but apart from the DVD, has absolutely no memory of his skydive. Planning your nights out is certainly a smart move.

As the Contiki mantra says: Experience your tour with #NoRegrets.

Budget your trip before you start Once you have paid for the trip it is time to start thinking realistically about how much money you will need to take with you. You’ll have to consider how much money you’ll spend on alcohol, what kinds of food you are going to eat (expensive restaurants or street food?), money for shopping and importantly money for extra activities. Before your trip you will find that there is a list

of optional extra activities that you can purchase along the way (like skydiving for example). Take some time to have a thorough look through the list and choose anything you might like to do, and put aside money for these activities. And don’t forget extra money for emergencies. You never know what could happen. You might accidently crash your scooter in Croatia or lose your bag in Spain. Having that back-up money is key to coming out on the other side of a messy situation.

Enter with an open mind Lastly and probably most importantly is to have an open mind. Honestly, at the beginning of your trip you might not ever think you were capable of doing some of the things you will do on your tour. Some things may push you way out of your comfort zone. Try to take advantage of every opportunity that is thrown your way. In the end, you will have made the most incredible friends for life, have visited multiple countries and experienced things that others could only dream of. As the Contiki mantra says: Experience your tour with #NoRegrets.

SAVING MONEY OVER SUMMER Azaria Bell Summer: that beautiful time of the year when the sun is out, the ocean is sparkling, and you’re absolutely drenched in your own sweat. All you want to do is sit under the air-con and get away from the disgusting humidity that is Queensland summer. Okay, maybe I’m being a bit harsh. But, you have to admit, it’s tempting to take advantage of the air-conditioned shopping centres and throw all that cash you don’t have on whatever catches your eye. Well, we need to stop that. Summer doesn’t HAVE to be expensive and, really, we don’t need half the stuff we buy. “We’re uni students,” you cry. “We’re meant to be poor, right?!” Well, not quite.

I am a full-time commerce student, part time bank teller and casual YouTube-video-maker-person. In my YouTube videos I talk about personal finance, study tips, organisation, and a whole bunch of other cool stuff. If you want to save more money, get your butt into gear and stop procrastinating, or land that job you’re not sure you’re qualified for, you should 100% check out my channel (Azaria Bell) and have a watch. Here are some tips for how to make the most of what summer has to offer without breaking the bank. Don’t dip into your savings to enjoy the sunshine, there are plenty of ways to do it cheap!

Saving money over summer

1. Shop at farmers markets for in-season fruit and veggies in bulk Buy cheap, bulk and fresh, and freeze whatever won’t be used immediately. Farmers markets are a godsend for eating healthy on a budget. Trade those nostalgic zooper-doopers for frozen fruit skewers and Boost Juice for homemade juices. Your body will thank you!

2. Make the most of what Mother Nature blessed us with How much of Queensland’s national parkland have you explored? National parks are free, picturesque, and good for the mind, body and soul. I would personally recommend Cedar Creek Falls, Springbrook National Park and Killarney Glen for beautiful waterfalls and incredible views around the coast.

3. Let your car (and wallet) have a break Try to bike, skate or walk as much as you can when travelling to nearby spots. Not only will you save money on fuel, you’ll be getting some much needed exercise and fresh air. 4. Try somewhere new without the guilt When you want to go somewhere funky for food with your mates but you’ve only got $20 sitting in your account, hop onto websites such as Scoopon, Groupon or Living Social. Often they do crazy deals, such as $80 worth of food for $20. I don’t know about you, but I’ll never turn down more food for less money. 5. Discover your green thumb Have a go at growing your own fruits, veggies and herbs at home! A few things that grow well in the Queensland summer include melons, sweet potato, strawberry, tomato, basil and mint. Oh, and coriander, if you like the taste of soap. #teamihatecorriander

7. Get free spirited – emphasis on the ‘free’ Check out websites such as ‘moregoldcoast’ and ‘visitbrisbane’ to suss out some awesome free music and arts festivals happening in your area. Who knows, you just might discover the next Sticky Fingers! 8. Goodbye clutter, hello cash For extra moolah, try having a garage sale or book in a spot at the car boot sale at Carrara markets. You can make some serious cash on stuff you don’t use anymore, and de-clutter at the same time. 9. Be self-sufficient Take a bottle of water and snacks everywhere you go! It is so much cheaper to make your own smoothies, protein balls, fruit salads and sandwiches at home, as opposed to buying when you’re out and about. Can you really justify spending $4 on a bottle of water? 10. Cut the crap (temporarily)

6. Be a true-blue Australian

Look at areas of your spending you can cut down on over summer. Go through your current transactions and find out where your money is going. Can you go without Netflix for a couple of months? What about making coffee at home? Less money going out = more money in your pocket!

Skip a night out clubbing and have drinks and a BBQ with your mates instead! Not only will the food be awesome, (snags anyone?) but the drinks won’t cost you $15 a pop. Chuck on some Jimmy Barnes, a bit of Midnight Oil, and you’re in for a rippa night.

These are my top 10 tips for saving money over summer. I hope you find them useful and are inspired to get savvy with your savings. Have an awesome summer, stay cool, and drink lots of water!

INTERNSHIP 101 Monique Hotchin With the semester drawing to a close, most of you have probably already planned your summer down to the very last detail. However, some of you might also be wondering how you’re going to fill the long, hot days over the next three months. Instead of wasting your days away in bed, binging on Netflix and day old pizza (let’s not lie, we’ve all been there), why not expand your horizons and take on a summer internship? Internships are considered a gateway to future paid work by giving applicants that extra edge in a competitive graduate job market. Internships not only make a stellar addition to your resume but might actually be a requirement for your degree.So what exactly is an internship? In a nutshell, they are

a temporary job or placement in a professional work environment where you shadow and learn from real world industry leaders. And yes, sadly, internships are typically unpaid and sometimes you will be made to fetch coffee. However, don’t let that dishearten you. This opportunity gives you something much more valuable than money – experience! Gaining a practical understanding of the industry you have spent months or years studying to enter gives you great insight to the roles you might one day fill. An internship is a perfect foot in the door and helps to ensure that all those late nights studying and cramming aren’t just a waste of time.

Internship 101

Now that you’re convinced and ready to explore a summer internship, here is your personal guide to blitzing the interview, bagging an internship and making the most out of your experience.

Internships are considered a gateway to future paid work by giving applicants that extra edge in a competitive graduate job market.

So you’ve submitted a killer resume and have landed yourself an interview. Now, an interview can be a nerve wracking thing that most of us will fret about for days beforehand, but preparation is the key.

Every job starts with a resume, no matter if its paid or unpaid work. Some things to keep in mind are: •

Make sure your resume is current

•

In terms of layout, less is more. Let your experience and skills stand out, not that Curlz Mt font you’ve been dying to use

•

Attention to detail! There’s nothing worse than not getting a call back because you put down the wrong phone number

•

Play it safe and try one of the templates on the Griffith website.

•

Know your stuff! Learn about the organisation or business that you are applying for. Be aware of what their goals and objectives are and possibly even their history – pulling out a fast fact can be impressive.

•

Know what your strengths and weaknesses are. You might be thinking, why do I need to know my weaknesses? Being aware of your weaknesses is actually an extremely impressive trait! Just ensure that you identify how you manage or seek to improve those weaknesses.

•

Take some pride in your appearance and dress appropriately.

•

Eye contact shows that you are actively listening and shows your enthusiasm.

•

And lastly, always have three words that best describe you tucked away in your brain. 7 out of 10 times that question will come up.

Gaining a practical understanding of the industry you have spent months or years studying to enter gives you great insight to the roles you might one day fill.

Once you’ve prepped yourself on the basics, there are a few more things to cover. From past experience and some insider knowledge from interviewers, here are some things that interviewers are looking for when hiring an intern. Companies want students who: •

Conduct themselves well with exceptional communication skills

•

Show excellent overall presentation

•

Are passionate and show that they care

•

Display strong interpersonal skills

•

Have the ability to work in a team environment

•

Showcase a proactive and productive approach to work and studies.

Now you’ve aced your interview and (after sitting by the phone) received some very good news. You got the job! Time to toss away that stale pizza and hit pause on Orange Is The New Black, because you’ve got a summer internship to get to! While you’re beyond excited to be starting this great opportunity, you’re still nervous. This is totally fine!

Here are some tips for your first day or week to remember: •

You’ll need time to adjust

•

Your first day will be an information overload. Take notes whenever you can

•

Be open-minded and willing to learn and experience new things

•

You’re in the real world now! Remember to be as flexible and adaptable as you can be to the new environment, which is completely different from university

•

Try to be proactive and show initiative

•

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions, no matter how silly they might seem

•

Being punctual is very important

•

Try not to be the first one to leave at the end of the day.

Internship 101

If you would like to hear more about internship experiences and the vast benefits it can give you, a group of students who have just completed a full time internship with the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation are holding a seminar at the Uni Bar on the 13 October from 1-2pm.

A summer internship is a rewarding experience and you can gain so much out of it. The following are things you can expect to gain by taking this opportunity: •

Insight to a professional work environment

•

Gain a better understanding of your future industry or career

•

Creating contacts that may be helpful in the future (especially after graduation)

•

Hands on experience and practical training from professionals within your industry

•

Gain skills and experiences that are outside your degree

•

Internships can often set you apart and help you stand out when it comes to post-university employment.

Summer S M O O T H I E S & C O C K TA I L S

Step aside hot choccies and green teas, summer is all about beverages of the iced cold kind. With the help of our friends from the Uni Bar and Visual Arts Café, we’ve put together some delicious cocktail and smoothie recipes perfect for you to try at home

and enjoy this summer break. Invite your friends around and have some fun with it - don’t stress about perfecting the quantities or including every single ingredient, you really can mix it up and substitute with or add some of your preferred favourites.

EACH RECIPE IS DESIGNED TO SERVE ONE

Blue Mojito

Cocktails: Fruity, fresh or tropical? We’ve got you covered with four different boozy blends including everyone’s favourite, the espresso martini.

- 30ml Alize Bleu - 30ml Bacardi - Sparkling or soda water - Mint leaves

Tropical Comfort

- Cane sugar or sugar syrup - Fresh lime

Make: In a highball glass

- 45ml Southern Comfort - 90ml pineapple juice - Sparkling or soda water

Make: Add Southern Comfort and pineapple juice to a highball glass. Fill glass with ice and then top with soda water. Garnish with a slice of pineapple (optional).

(basically a tall glass) crush a few mint leaves, half a lime and 2 teaspoons of cane sugar. Pour in Alize and Bacardi, fill glass with ice. Top off with sparkling or soda water and stir well. Enjoy!

Expresso Jartini / Martini - 30ml Patron XO Café - 30ml Vodka

Dark & Stormy

- 30ml fresh espresso (pods at home work well)

- 45ml Substation 41 Gold Rum

a Boston shaker glass or other cocktail shaker. Top with ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Dump contents into a jam jar or strain contents into a chilled martini glass, garnish with three coffee beans and serve.

- 2 slices of fresh lime - Ginger beer

Make: In a highball glass, pour in rum, squeeze in the fresh lime slices, fill with ice and top off with ginger beer. Give the drink a good stir, serve and enjoy. Summer smoothies & cocktails

Make: Add all ingredients to

Smoothies: When it comes to a summer smoothie you can’t go past acai. This antioxidant-rich berry is known for its immune-stimulating, energy-boosting properties and it tastes amazing! You can pick up acai powder or pouches from most health food shops or even supermarkets. If you’re around campus you can also stock up at Visual Arts Café – they sell acai pouches (also handy for DIY acai bowls) in a 4 pack for $10.00.

Acai with Banana & Walnuts - 2 acai pouches - 1 banana, frozen - 1 large handfuls walnuts - 400ml coconut milk

Make: Blend all ingredients together in a blender or smoothie maker on high.

Options: If you’re looking for more of a berry blast add ½ cup of blueberries, 6-8 strawberries and use just 1 acai pouch.

Chocolate Acai - 2 acai pouches - 1 tbsp. cacao or 1 scoop chocolate protein powder - 1 banana, frozen - 400ml almond milk

Make: Blend all ingredients together in a blender or smoothie maker on high.

Options: Not a fan of almond milk? No worries, substitute it for coconut water, coconut milk, water or an alternative nut milk.

WORLD BOG SNORKELLING CHAMPIONSHIPS Rebecca Marshallsay

While you’re at uni, summer is traditionally a time for travel. And if you’re not travelling in your summer holidays then there’s a good chance you’re working to save for your next trip. So what will your next trip be? Bali, Thailand, a Contiki around Europe? All good options no doubt, but there is nothing like travelling to take part in a local event. Some of these might be cultural festivals like Mexico’s Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) or you might find yourself at something a little less traditional and a little more left of centre. There is no end to the exciting events you can add to your itinerary. How about attending the Pushkar Camel Fair in India? In Spain they hold the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona or if you want something less ethically controversial you could participate in La Tomatina, the tomato throwing festival held in Buñol (fair warning: many tomatoes will be injured at this fiesta). If you can’t get enough of getting messy why not add a visit to India for Holi where you can throw coloured flour over strangers in the streets at their festival of colours?

There are also a host of novelty events around the world just waiting to be added to your bucket list. France is home to the Marathon du Médoc, where you must stop and sample the vino at 23 wineries along the 42km route (dress up is also compulsory). If you are feeling very brave you might also indulge in some culinary specialties from the area including steak, oysters and foie gras while you run. When it comes to novelty events, the United Kingdom has established itself as a must

World Bog Snorkelling Championships

visit destination. Glasgow and Yorkshire both host mascot races where you can run for the charity or organisation of your choice in their mascot’s outfit. In May, Gloucestershire hosts an annual Cheese Rolling event. If you’re not sure what that might involve, let me clarify. The organisers roll a 4kg wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a very steep hill and participants hurl themselves down the hill after it. If you don’t dislocate a knee or sprain something vital you might be lucky enough to catch the cheese and claim the title of the Big Cheese

(I cannot confirm that that is the actual title but I would certainly make people call me that if I won). But the event that has long captured my interest is the World Bog Snorkelling Championships held in Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales every year. Participants roll up in the middle of Welsh summer (read fog, drizzle and an optimistic hope that it might reach 20 degrees), to snorkel through 110 metres of a boggy ditch in a farmer’s field. So this year, when I found out that I would be travelling through the UK in August, I quickly rerouted our travel itinerary to make sure that we would be in Llanwrtyd Wells on the 28 August to participate in the big event. The World Bog Snorkelling Championships started in 1986. It

attracts visitors from all over the world with over 150 participants registered for the 2016 event. There is a novelty category where participants make the prospect of swimming through an icy, muddy bog even more challenging by donning a novelty costume to encumber them. At the other end of the spectrum, there are serious swimmers who come kitted out in speed suits and professional fins who are aiming to take out the Championship and perhaps beat the world record time of 1:22.

The event The day started with a promising fog and some encouraging drizzle just to make the idea of stripping off the thermals and jumping into some chilly water even more enticing. The talk in the ladies’ bathroom was all about whether

or not there were such a thing as bog scorpions. A woman dressed as a mermaid was adamant that they existed but tried to reassure everyone that they were really just like big earwigs. This didn’t seem to appease many of the small crowd whose enthusiasm appeared to be wavering. I decided to leave the near hysterical mass to fret about the bog scorpions/earwigs feeling reasonably confident that they couldn’t be worse than anything we have in the water in Australia. My partner and I were both competing and we had been allocated a position early in the day. We had the chance to watch a few people race before it was our turn. Not too reassuringly everyone finished echoing a similar cry ‘that was tough’, ‘it’s so cold’ or ‘it is so hard’.

I was particularly worried about the cold but before you know it I was stepping into the bog ready to compete.

This got the nerves going a little bit. I was particularly worried about the cold but before you know it I was stepping into the bog ready to compete. The rules of bog snorkelling are simple. You have to touch the start/finish and turning poles above the water, you can only use your arms to dog paddle below the water (not a helpful technique) and you can’t stop. The race itself was over in a flash (well in a not-too-shabby one minute and 55 seconds). It was icy but not the coldest water I’ve ever been in. There was a bit of grass and zero visibility but other than that it was not any tougher than a 110 metre kick in the ocean or pool. By the end my legs were burning but finishing the race was so exciting. It was certainly worth the nerves about the cold (and the prospect of bog scorpions). When you pop your head up at the

end there are dozens of strangers cheering and clapping for you. You hop out of the water to receive your bog snorkelling medal (it’s a frog) and then the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. The most incredible aspect of the event was the atmosphere. Anyone and everyone will stop and talk to you about where you are from, why you are there and how you did. By lunchtime people were approaching us for a chat with the opener, “We heard you’re from Australia...” There were families, people of all ages and even bucks parties making a day of it. Most impressively there was no end to the variety of weird and wonderful costumes. We saw mermaids, superheroes, male belly dancers, and floating toilets just to name a few. One man even competed with a galleon sailing ship strapped to his back. World Bog Snorkelling Championships

This was one of the most fun days I have ever had travelling. The novelty, the bragging rights, the chance to get involved in a local event and to chat with so many people from Wales and around the world was absolutely incredible. So next time you’re seeking a little adventure on your travels (or even closer to home), keep your eyes open for some of the unusual events that can take you off the beaten path. You may get attacked by scorpions but you certainly won’t regret it.

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HOW TO THROW A SUCCESSFUL FRIENDSMAS Angel Nikijuluw

It’s important to get together with the people you’re close with at the end of the year before everyone parts ways for the summer holidays.

Christmas isn’t just about the presents. At this stage of our lives, it’s about the time we spend with the people we love. It’s important to get together with the people you’re close with at the end of the year before everyone parts ways for the summer holidays. You could call this just a regular get-together…or you could hold a Friendsmas! ‘Friendsmas’ is traditionally held at the end of the year, and includes large quantities of food, the exchanging of gifts, and of course, you and your best friends. Friendsmas is also a wonderful idea for those who may not celebrate Christmas, or cannot spend the day with their ‘real’ family. Whether you’re 20 kilometres or half a world away from home, you’ll always have a family at Griffith.

How to throw a successful Friendsmas

Decorate

For me, decorating is probably the most exciting part of the process. Who doesn’t love handmade banners and sparkly streamers?! Grab a few rolls of cardboard, some paint, string, and a bucket tonne of glitter. Have fun with it!

Bring food!

Set present rules

If you’re all on a budget, or you simply don’t want everyone to go overboard, setting a cash limit or even a present theme is crucial. For example, there can be a $20 limit, or the theme can be homemade presents. You don’t even have to have presents! Personalise your Friendsmas to suit you and your best pals.

Setup activities & games

Plan

Just like any other party, it’s crucial to plan the venue and the time. Is it going to be just a few hours or an overnight event? For the full Christmas effect, go for full nostalgia and set up a sleepover. Have pizza for breakfast, and open your presents together in the morning.

This is possibly the most important step in throwing a Friendsmas (or is that just me? Just me? Okay). Encourage everyone to bring food – homemade or not. That way, it automatically makes your Friendsmas more appetising (get it?) and you won’t run out of food.

Make your Friendsmas fun! Whip out your old school PS2 console, set up a gingerbread house competition, or play the biggest game of Monopoly you’ve ever played (warning: Monopoly may break friendships and relationships apart).

BE A TRAVELLER, NOT A TOURIST Erwan Guegan Travel - what a wonderful thing. Once a distant luxury, we are now just a few clicks away from our next destination. Travelling is cheaper, faster and more accessible than ever. The world and its wonders are at our grasp. The internet allows us to see and book our rooms in advance, find the best restaurants in town, find unmissable points of interest and the places to avoid. But by trying to broaden our horizons and access information in this way, we might have narrowed down our choices to similar patterns. We travel to the same places to see the same things, sleep in the same beds, eat the same dishes cooked from the same local restaurant recommended on Trip Advisor. Isn’t the point of travelling to break free from our conformist lives? Our journeys can so easily become a list of boxes to check off as we go. But taking selfies in front of a monuments and sharing ‘amazing’ and ‘unique’ stories on social media as your phone attempts to cool down is beyond the point. We physically travel, yes, but sometimes our mind simply isn’t there. It stayed in its comfortable home among friends and families. The modern traveller often sticks to the same path as everyone else. It is part of the human nature to

be afraid of what we do not know. Some cultures might do something that you will find offending while it is just natural for them. For instance, burping is considered good table manners in Bahrain and parts of China. Would that be enough to throw you off your seat? Travelling gives you the opportunity to learn about yourself and the world. But for it to happen, you must open your mind and your heart to your surroundings and allow the world to teach you about its wonders, and about yourself. This often leads to a series of personal doubts, a battle with your inner self that will permit you to find a truer you. What you believe in and the reality you lived in will change forever for the best.

“Travelling gives you the opportunity to learn about yourself and the world” It gives you another perspective of life in general and forces you to question your own. By cautiously planning your trip, step by step,

Be a traveller, not a tourist

following the pre-designed path and the tourist crowd, you are purposely putting blinders over your eyes and missing a great opportunity to experience this personal inner journey. Of course, it is important to plan something, have a budget and to have an idea of the kind of adventure you are throwing yourself into. But if something doesn’t happen the way it was supposed to, maybe it just wasn’t meant to be. Look for other options - who knows what will come from it. You might meet someone, make a new friend, a lover, discover a new place, create memories. Life isn’t a peaceful river but rather a tumultuous ocean. Learn how to go with the flow, not against it, and row that boat the best you can. It’s all about the journey, not the destination. By doing so you will start to be more accepting of your surroundings. You’ll start paying attention to things you never noticed before, maybe because they have always been part of your life. You will realise that what you took for granted are in fact privileges. Being aware of this will allow you to be so much more grateful for what you have, and bring happiness into your life. One thing I have learned from

travelling is that deep down we are all humans, with the same desires to love and feel loved, to find happiness and most importantly, that we all love food. Fear, much like racism, comes from misinformation, a lack of knowledge or experience. Drop the stereotypes and be attentive to hear what others have to say. Try to mingle with the locals (and by that I mean more than just trying to bargain your way to paying 50 cents less for those yoga pants). Rather, try having a genuine discussion with him or her. Where is she from, why is she here, what is her story? Take the time to look around you and to appreciate where you are. Don’t just visit a place; experience it, live it. Once in a while, put your phone and camera down and

appreciate the moment. Immerse yourself in your environment. Of course, you can also enjoy the moment while taking a picture. We all want to create beautiful memories to share with our loved ones. But it is also important to stop worrying if the ISO is right or if you got the best possible angle. Stop thinking about how amazed your friends and family are going to be. They are not there, only you are, in the present moment.

opening up to the people around you, perhaps you will take notice of just how amazing life is and how wonderful people actually are. I believe that this optimistic and open mindset will attract more positive people and experiences into your life. Be kind to one another but be aware, travelling is addictive.

Travelling isn’t about trying to impress people at parties with your check lists. You will then realise that it doesn’t take much to travel; you can experience this personal journey and apply what you have learned from your voyages every day in your very own home country. By putting down your selfie stick and

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.”

Saint Augustine

THE PERFECT SUMMER BODY Holly Driscoll Summer is almost here (yay!), which means it’s that time of year where we justify spending countless painful hours in the gym desperately trying to sweat out those winter Tim-Tams. With constant access to the internet we increasingly spend our lives online. We’re inundated with pictures of beautiful girls sporting toned tummies in tiny bikinis. But as we frantically try to mimic what we see, should we stop to ask: is there really such a thing as the perfect summer body? I will never forget being in the bathroom at a characteristically glitzy New York restaurant, trying to wash my hands in the

very impractical lighting (or lack thereof). A girl strode out of the end cubicle, straight up to the full length mirror. Stopping in front of it, she grabbed the skin on the back of her thighs, pulled it upwards, boosting her bum and I admired the reflection. I couldn’t stop staring. This girl, whose body would’ve been suited to the pages of any high fashion magazine, wasn’t happy with herself. I looked down at my own blobby bulk and wondered what ever had given me the right to think I could wear such a tight top? I skulked out of the bathroom, embarrassed at my own inadequacy, scared of what she must’ve thought.

The perfect summer body

The truth is, that girl probably never gave me a second thought, too engrossed in her own selfdeprecation to interpret the dismay on my face as admiration. If that girl who, in my eyes, had the perfect summer body wasn’t happy, then what was her idea of perfect? And really, why should I care? You only have to go as far as FHM’s 100 sexiest woman in 2016 to see that the top 20 range from Kim Kardashian’s voluptuous curves to Taylor Swift’s long, lean limbs. We are living in a time where strong is the new skinny and healthy trumps hungry. In simpler terms, the ‘perfect summer body’

If that girl who, in my eyes, had the perfect summer body wasn’t happy, then what was her idea of perfect? And really, why should I care?

is really what you make of it. By concentrating on the parts of your body that you aren’t happy with, it’s easy to overlook all the amazing things other people see! So, rather than spending hundreds of hours counting calories and pounding away on a treadmill, the real training comes in silencing the belittling voice in our own heads and making room for a quiet confidence in just being you. Bare your bones, your bulk, your bodies, because at the end of the day the only person who cares enough to judge is you. And to the girl in the bathroom, who couldn’t see her own

flawlessness, thank you for making me realise that maybe there is no such thing as perfect – the word means different things to each of us, so we can all be perfect to ourselves in our own different ways.

DOWNTIME ON FILM

Dazed and Confused (1993)

With nearly three months of holidays to look forward to (or work, depending on your circumstances), many readers will probably be anticipating and planning the various Contiki tours, music festivals and Netflix marathons they will be attending or participating in, the latter being the likely option for me. This list is dedicated to movies that cover those “in-between” periods in life, which in reality usually result in mind-numbing boredom and self-disgust, but often in films signify rites of passage and character growth.

Zak Johnson

Richard Linklater’s portrait of 1970’s suburbia tracks the shenanigans of various teenagers on the last day of school. As is the case with a lot of Linklater’s films, there really isn’t much in the way of a welldefined plot, rather a continuing series of humorous encounters and conversations that illustrate the carefree and mundane realities of being young. Featuring early appearances from Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck and Milla Jovovich as well as one of the greatest soundtracks ever, Dazed and Confused is a great nostalgic treat.

Wet Hot American Summer (2001)

Lost in Translation (2003)

The Beach (2000)

Though it tanked critically and financially when it was released in 2001, Wet Hot American Summer has obtained a cult following in recent years due to its star-studded (but at the time unknown) cast and absurd sense of humour. Basically parodying summer camp and teen movies from the ‘80s, WHAS covers the last day of holidays at Camp Firewood through the eyes of its campers and staff. Netflix recently released a prequel miniseries, featuring the original’s now 40-something-year-old cast members playing the same teenage roles. If you like your comedy with a bizarre, meta edge, you’ll dig this one.

A favourite of cinephiles and hipsters everywhere, Sofia Coppola’s look at human companionship (and loneliness) is probably one of the finest romantic films ever made, if it can be called that. Washed-up film star Bob Harris (Bill Murray) and recently married college graduate Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) find themselves in the same hotel in Tokyo, and bond over their shared frustrations with their lives over the resulting few days. Intimate and melancholy, Lost in Translation’s gorgeous cinematography and on-location shooting makes it one of the main reasons why countless viewers (myself included) would love to visit Japan.

While it’s a bit more toned-down from the book it’s based on, The Beach is still quite a pessimistic look into the corrosive influence that human beings can have on both nature and long-lasting cultures. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Richard travels to Thailand in the hope of escaping the trappings of Western life and is given a map that supposedly reveals the location of a hidden tropical paradise. But the island’s inhabitants, while initially hospitable, become much more unhinged when their secrecy is threatened. The Beach becomes a bit more implausible in its third act, but it’s still a fascinating peek into the dark side of tourism.

Downtime on film

In Bruges (2008)

Wild (2014)

Stand By Me (1986)

A perfect fusion of brutal violence and witty dialogue, In Bruges follows two Irish contract killers (Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson) who are forced to lay low in the titular city after a hit goes horribly wrong. Ray’s (Farrell) boredom and lack of appreciation for Belgian culture clashes constantly with Ken’s (Gleeson) more sophisticated and reserved nature. Matters become slightly more complicated when the assassins’ violent employer (Ralph Fiennes) enters the scene. Simultaneously a gorgeous tribute to an underexposed city as well as a morbidly hilarious black comedy.

Similarly to Into the Wild, this one features an individual’s quest for self-realisation through isolation and perseverance, and is also based on true events. After the death of her mother and a resulting string of destructive behaviour, Cheryl (Reece Witherspoon in an Oscar-nominated role) decides to hike over 1000 miles as a means of rehabilitation. Flashbacks to Cheryl’s troubled past are interspaced with her memorable encounters (some good, some bad) along the Pacific Crest Trail. A real slow-burner, but definitely a satisfying one.

Similarly to Dazed and Confused, Stand by Me is a candid look into adolescence within a particular decade, this time the late 1950’s. Several days before starting high school, four close friends decide to travel to where a local boy has apparently been killed by a train, in order to get their names in the newspaper. But what appears to be a simple two-day hike gradually becomes a more profound look into each boy’s troubled home lives, anxieties and hopes. Based on a novella by Stephen King, Stand By Me combines some fantastic performances from its young cast with an endearing, bittersweet tone.

Into the Wild (2007)

Nebraska (2014)

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

Based on the true-life exploits of Christopher McCandless, Into the Wild follows him as he gives away all his possessions and post-college opportunities in order to live a life of solitude and self-sustenance, his intended destination being Alaska. During his journeys, McCandless comes across a wide assortment of unique individuals, each who somehow contribute to Christopher’s idiosyncratic worldviews. He often doesn’t make the best decisions, but that just makes him all the more human. A career-defining performance from Emile Hirsch in a fantastic adventuredrama that definitely takes its toll on you emotionally.

Fittingly shot in black and white, Nebraska illustrates the sheer boredom and repetitiveness that comes associated with living in rural areas. After his borderline senile father Woody (Bruce Dern) falsely believes that he’s become a millionaire in a mail scam, his depressed son David (Will Forte) decides to take him on a road trip in order to convince him of the truth. They pass through Woody’s hometown, where the majority of its citizens have become convinced of Woody’s newfound status. Consistently presented with a dry sense of humour, Nebraska is ultimately a very touching and heartfelt experience.

The quintessential slacker movie and one of the 1980s’ best teen comedies. The titular extrovert (Matthew Broderick’s best known role) decides to bail on school and hit up Chicago with his girlfriend Sloane and much more reserved and cautious best friend Cameron, who’s probably more likely the film’s protagonist. Close behind them is their obsessed and authoritarian dean of students. The film’s depiction of the trio’s exploits at areas such as art museums and baseball fields as well as Ferris’ crashing of a busy parade showcase not just Bueller’s antics, but the gorgeous city of Chicago itself.

Product review - Summer staples Rebecca Marshallsay There are many things that make up the quintessential summer and we get slavishly excited about their imminent approach as November draws to an end. But are these staple ingredients for an epic summer all they’re cracked up to be? This edition Geta reviews some summer staples to see whether you should be counting down in anticipation or if you need to dial down your expectations.

THE BEACH

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Who doesn’t love the beach? Well, a lot of people apparently. Complaints range from a general fear of the surf to disliking the feeling of sand. As a long time beach lover I find this hard to comprehend. Sure, fishing sand out of your nether regions is not the most fun thing in the world but a little sand between your toes is not a good reason to shun the magnificent playground we have right on our doorstep. You don’t need to be an iron person to enjoy our gorgeous beaches. Whether you are a super fish or a firm land dweller, there is no shortage to the list of things you can do at the beach - long walks, surfing lessons, bike rides along the foreshore, yoga, meditation or just digging a really big hole.

Christmas gives you presents and lots of loved up family time, Australia Day (although politically controversial) gives you the Hottest 100, and New Year’s Eve gives you nothing but an underwhelming evening and a hangover to kick off your fresh start to the New Year. New Year’s Eve is the most disappointing of all the summer staples. It is a bona fide fact that one in eight New Year’s celebrations will live up to your expectations. The rest will be overhyped and under deliver.

Biggest pro: I am firmly of the belief that the cure for anything is salt water. There is nothing like that first dive under a wave to relieve any stress or worries you might have and to refresh and reinvigorate you.

If you’re heading out on the town for New Year’s with the expectation that you and thirty of your best friends will just bar hop and have an unstoppably epic night, you have to remember the immutable law of the universe - people get dumber in groups. What you’re likely to face is an evening of indecision, lost friends and realising that the bar you are in now is nowhere near as good as the one you just left despite what Stacey’s friend’s cousin promised.

Biggest con: Sunburn. Unfortunately sunburn can happen to the best of us (you know that place under your straps that you always miss). It hurts, it prematurely ages your skin and it’s deadly. But you know the old slip, slop, slap drill. Reapply regularly and don’t be afraid to tell that friend who asks you to come out tanning that they’re a tool.

Biggest pro: If you set the bar low then your New Year’s might turn out to be passable. A BBQ at a mate’s place and a see-where-the-night-takes-us approach is a good way to go. Or you could head off camping or make plans to do something active on New Year’s Day that will start your year right and ensure that your first feeling of the New Year is not one of regret. Biggest con: That you know in your heart of partyhearts that New Year’s is not going to be your greatest night out. Part of you wants to stay home with some take-away and play a GoT drinking game with your besties but the fear of missing out will force you off of the couch, into a brand new outfit, and off to Surfers just in case this is the year that New Year’s turns out to be epic.

Product review - Summer staples

BBQs You really can’t go wrong with a BBQ. You can host one anywhere, anytime...morning, arvo, school night - it doesn’t matter. Head down to a park for snags and a soccer shindig or set up your deck chair in the backyard and settle in for the afternoon. If you’re still living at home, ‘BBQ’ has the added advantage of sounding much more amenable to the parents than ‘party’. A BBQ is one of the few social events where it is acceptable to ask your guests to BYO everything from food and drinks to seating. Even if you decide to be the hostie with the mostie and spring for food yourself, three kilos of beef sausages, a few loaves of bread and some token salad vegetables are unlikely to bust the uni student budget. If you’re feeling really thrifty you could even spring for a few packets of crisps. Biggest pro: There is nothing more chill than a summer BBQ. Maybe people will turn up, maybe they won’t. It doesn’t really matter. Pop on some music, heat up the barbie, relax with your beverage of choice and all will be well. Biggest con: Potato salad. I’m not sure when it became acceptable to pour mayonnaise over some cold potatoes and pass it off as a culinary masterpiece but I wouldn’t serve this to my worst enemy let alone take it around to a friend’s place in return for their hospitality.

NO UNI After the final scramble to complete assignments and study for exams, the best thing about summer has to be no uni right? You can sleep in, hang with your friends every day, you don’t have to change out of your trackies... wait, this is sounding a lot like most days at uni. The end of semester stress has probably tainted your view on this one a little bit. Even if you’re juggling work, uni and a billion other things, you are (relatively speaking) probably living la vida loca for 90% of the semester. While summer holidays offer the promise of untold freedom, chances are the only tangible difference is that you will be able to watch the cricket uninterrupted by the burden of having a 1pm tutorial. With an endless supply of extracurricular clubs, social events and opportunities to try new things (not to mention that hopefully you are studying something you kind of like), uni is hardly the soul crushing burden we make it out to be. By February you might even find yourself looking forward to the start of semester. Biggest pro: No exams and no assignments. No matter how good the subject, studying to a deadline is never fun. Biggest con: Sadly summer holidays often means more hours at work to meet the Christmas rush or to replenish the bank balance.

cam

pus band

- Comp -

19 August @ Uni Bar

Snapped on campus

s + Nurse - Party - s

or t c o D

25 August @ Uni Bar

Snapped on campus

tai s u S

nabilit

- Fair -

1 September @ Library Lawn

Snapped on campus

R U OK ? - Day -

8 September @ GUGC

Snapped on campus

BECOME A CHOOSE WHEN AND WHERE YOU WORK EXPAND YOUR RESUME PORTFOLIO STRENGTHEN YOUR SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE NEGOTIATE YOUR OWN HOURLY RATE MEET NEW PEOPLE AND SUPPORT YOUR FELLOW STUDENTS FIND OUT MORE AT GUGCSTUDENTGUILD.COM.AU/STUDENT-SUPPORT 47

SATURDAY 15 OCTOBER | 3PM | UNI BAR $40 FOR GUGC STUDENTS | $60 FOR NON-STUDENTS T I C K E T

I N C L U D E S

Three days,

Three ways

When I buy clothing, I have three requirements: it has to match my colour palette, it must be the right material, and it must be multi-functional. By multi-functional, I mean it must be versatile enough to be paired with everything else in my wardrobe. With summer now just around the corner, it pays off to have a streamlined closet. Less clothes to choose from = less time spent looking for an outfit = more time at the beach. While I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t condone wearing the same item of clothing three days in a row (as insinuated by the title), this spread was inspired by the versatility of simple, comfortable clothing and the (sometimes) very eventful days of summer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; having brunch with friends in the morning, spending the day at the beach, and going out at night. Is it possible to do all three things in one day without having to change three times? Absolutely. Angel Nikijuluw

GIRLS

STAPLE ITEM ASOS SPOT PRINT COLD SHOULDER SWING BEACH DRESS IN CREAM

$57.00 asos.com/au

sweatshirtsanddresses.com

kmeetsstyle.com

BEACH LOOK

CASUAL LOOK For a casual (but not too casual) outfit for a day out or lunch with friends, tuck the dress into some blue jeans and pair it with some black boots. If it’s too hot, the look will be just as nice without the jeans.

Keep it simple when going to the beach – I wouldn’t imagine bringing anything more than some sunnies, sandals, a swimsuit, a dress as a cover-up, and a hat for sun protection (don’t forget sunscreen).

Fashion Spread

ACCESSORIES ASOS RAMERO METAL DETAIL ANKLE BOOTS

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GOING OUT To sharpen up a plain t-shirt, chuck on some dress pants, a black belt, and some dress shoes or a pair of oxford-style Dr. Martens.

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Feature artist – Olivia Heath Angela Nikijuluw

Olivia Heath is a QCA student who experiments with vibrant colours and sweeping, organic imagery, accompanied with feminist and socially driven themes in her film projects. We spoke with Olivia about her emotional and visual processes, her journey with film, and her latest project which is being showcased at this year’s graduate exhibition, ‘Undercurrents’.

You focus on women, sociology and social media through research. Do you combine your academic research and your art? If so, how do you visually present this in your work? Yes, I definitely do. My research really drives my art practice and my outcomes. Once I began my academic research, everything seemed to make sense, all the stars aligned and my practice and research linked in places I didn’t think would link. I feel like as an artist you need to really drive your research, you need to ask those questions no one will, you need to expose yourself to all ideas and possibilities, you need to piss some people off. Sometimes it will drive you insane, but if you know it’s right, particularly what I look at, it satisfies you immensely when you disrupt someone’s conventional thoughts through your work. You need that balance of research and practice. I find that my practice and creativity really flows after hard research; it’s almost like the research is chaos and the practice is order. They help each other out. I guess my work is feminist world, perhaps I was originally a little reluctant to admit that, as feminism is such a “dirty word”, but I think people really need to be a little bit more enlightened on what feminism actually is, and this is what my work does. My Monroe Syndrome series, which is being

featured in the upcoming graduate exhibition ‘Undercurrents’, at the Gold Coast City Gallery, is literally a series of painted breasts and is literally me saying, “this is what you fucking wanted isn’t it?” referring to the severe subliminal seduction of digital media and how a woman’s image is made out to be the only success of her life. This series looks at how women are governed to perform their femininity a certain way through what we see on Instagram, through to porn. Why did you choose acrylic on canvas and film as your mediums of choice? Was it something about those mediums that appealed to you more than, let’s say, graphic design or installation work? The way I work acrylic on a canvas is uncontrollable. It’s almost like my very own science experiment. I add all these different elements that help the paint work with each other or hate each other. Nothing is ever mapped out or works the way I imagine and that’s what I really like about it. I am obsessed with colour and I find that acrylic’s pigment and colour pay-off is so strong, but also can be manipulated so easily as well. I’ve always loved filming, I never had the best equipment or the best editing skills, but since I can remember I have been teaching myself to use what I had and what I know and just shoot

Feature artist - Olivia Heath

anything any old way. Throughout school I never thought film was an art methodology, the two classes were separated and painting was for art and shooting was for film and television. When I went into Film School I had a similar impression. Everything was in the box and you couldn’t think outside of it. My fellow students’ assessments were documentaries on the Gold Coast surf culture and mine was one long shot of me sitting on the ledge of an apartment rooftop, smoking a cigarette, dressed as Edie Sedgwick, shot on an iPhone 4 and being asked questions about pop culture and paint by some random voice impersonating Andy Warhol. The teachers didn’t get it. It wasn’t their fault however, it was mine. I thought that I couldn’t do my film in an art degree because “it’s not art”. I didn’t think I could shoot things on an iPhone 4 because it’s not “real” equipment. I didn’t think I was allowed to be in my own films because I had to be shooting them. The reason I do art and am in the industry is that there are absolutely no rules. Nothing is wrong. What major emotions are present in your work? Is it a consistent theme throughout, or do your works reflect an undulating ripple of emotions you happen to feel during different times of your life?

My passion for painting and art really excelled when I fell in love with Harrison, my fiancé, I guess you could say my muse. We lived in my small bedroom of my parent’s house, and it was a box and I wanted to recreate the atmosphere so I painted and created and painted and photographed until there was absolutely no room on the walls, and it changed everything, it made me so happy. I always say that our relationship was documented by the hues that I used like a coloured history. It’s crazy what some colour can do to a room and your attitude, particularly a room you wake up in every day. What are your plans once you graduate? Are there any projects you’re working on now? I’m currently planning our graduate exhibition, Undercurrents, for opening night 28 October, where I will be showcasing my Monroe Syndrome series and exhibiting a new video which will premiere. I would like to carry on to my honours, I’m currently applying. I honestly love to learn and I feel I can really push myself as an artist more. Find more of Olivia’s work at oliviaheathcolourcreative.com

Online Hayley Payne Once again we bring to you the weirdest and most wonderful websites, apps, games and social media accounts from across the web.

POKÉMON SHOWDOWN

HIJACKED (HJCKD)

Online game

Student blog

With Pokémon once again taking over the world, an amazing website has surfaced where you can create your own teams and battle live online. So if you’re sick of violently jabbing your screen to battle and want to play more closely with friends, then this website is for you.

If you haven’t already checked out HJCKD, it is definitely time you do. HJCKD is a student blogging platform with a diverse set of writer’s discussing all things university life, politics, lifestyle and more. Their articles are edgy and written for an audience who wants a little help and guidance in their university lives.

pokemonshowdown.com

hijacked.com.au

FIELD TRIP App Summer break is just around the corner so it is time to start planning your summer vacation. Field Trip is your one-stop app that acts as a personal tour guide for your summer holiday. The magic works by giving you recommendations for things to do based on your location. It is simple to use, has excellent reviews and is full of great content. fieldtripper.com

Online

@ADVENTUROUSKATE Instagram account Kate McCulley has a travel Instagram account to ignite your summer holiday lust. The Instagram star posts incredible images of travel, with breathtaking landscapes generally featuring. Taking some time to look through her account will give you serious photo envy and give you some ideas for your own summer snaps. instagram.com/adventurouskate

LINKEDIN Website So it has come to my attention that lots of students don’t have LinkedIn accounts. Summer is the perfect time to set up your LinkedIn account. It seriously does not take long at all and the potential benefits are so incredibly worth it. linkedin.com

LYNDA Website Once you have your LinkedIn set up you’ll most likely be offered a free trial to use Lynda. Lynda is an incredible site to learn all sorts of wonderful skills in short online courses. You can literally find a course in anything. Check it out and definitely take advantage of it if you get the chance, it’s a productive way to spend your time and improve your employability skills. lynda.com

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Entertainment

David Brent: Life on the Road (2016) 96 mins Comedy, mockumentary Director: Ricky Gervais Zak Johnson Brent’s back, but is that a good thing? Nearly fifteen years since David Brent’s last proper appearance in the UK version of The Office (which is a lot better than its US counterpart in this writer’s humble opinion), Ricky Gervais has revived his socially oblivious alter-ego for the purposes of a new mockumentary, detailing Brent’s life postWernham-Hogg. And while he’s definitely older, we certainly don’t get the impression that he’s any wiser. Having been fired from his managerial role in The Office, Life on the Road’s Brent now works as a sales rep, constantly annoying the majority of his co-workers with his inane, innuendo-laden and offensive jokes and comments. Deciding to take his band Foregone Conclusion on a “tour” for a few weeks, the film documents the continuous cringe-worthy encounters he has with audience members, record company representatives and even his bandmates. At the end of The Office’s 2003 season finale, we’re given the optimistic implication that Brent is finally outgrowing his childish ways

and realising that he doesn’t have to try to impress people in order to be liked. But that wouldn’t make a very entertaining follow-up, so it’s made clear from the offset that he’s back to his old ways, which, sure, is funnier, but doesn’t seem like a very genuine character evolution. However, we’re still given the idea that deep down he’s an incredibly vulnerable and lonely individual, which certainly makes him sympathetic, if not completely likeable. What really made the original season really work was how realistic and fleshed out the environment at Wernham-Hogg was, as well as its more grounded employees. It was as if the fictional documentary team wanted to film a serious series regarding a paper distribution business until Brent’s need to show off for the camera ended up taking the forefront. The same doesn’t really occur here. Besides David, characters largely exist as a means of reacting to his antics, with close-ups of their strained and uncomfortable facial expressions, making Brent the true centre of this universe. As a result, the film feels a bit more gimmicky and less believable than its television predecessor.

Entertainment

Where Life on the Road finds its real strengths is in its undeniable cringe factor. From the offset we’re subjected to a barrage of David’s inappropriate impersonations, inability to read social cues and sheer awkwardness. His culturally insensitive song lyrics, jealous attempts to upstage professional and social acquaintances and general childlike demeanour will undoubtedly leave you squirming in your seat. If your sense of humour leans towards the Curb Your Enthusiasm/Peep Show variety, you’ll likely find enough material to win you over. Though it reaches nowhere near the same heights, Life on the Road is a fairly worthy companion piece to the original Office series. The film’s aim is really to make you feel as uncomfortable as possible, and on that front it succeeds. But as a character study of a highly deluded yet forlorn man, Life on the Road could have delved a bit more into the subtlety department in order to truly flesh out Brent’s fragile psyche. Outsiders to the series or this subgenre of comedy may be a little alienated.

Blonde Frank Ocean Azaria Bell After an excruciating wait, Frank Ocean has released his follow up to 2012’s groundbreaking Channel Orange. Blonde plays out like a strange dream, with piercing moments of beauty and enigmatic sequences that draw in the listener. Opening with ‘Nikes’, an equivocal, twisting track that contemplates materialism, the album is a mix of amorous love songs, political commentary and personal memoirs. ‘Nights’, arguably Blonde’s answer to Channel Orange’s ‘Pyramids’, is a transcending fusion of melodies, an amalgamation of sounds, showcasing elements of

The Messenger Markus Zusak Caitlin Erasmus

RNB, soul and blues. ‘White Ferrari’ “ends in a sombre, Bon Iver inspired tone, which eases intricately into ‘Seigfried’, a ballad that tackles societal expectations and critical self reflection.

“Blonde is a powerful, emotionally driven record that is crafted by artistic expression and heartache.”

or blasting on mainstream radio, and the average listener may not be immediately enticed by such an experimental, self-indulgent album. However the lush, whimsical sounds and complex lyrical content place Blonde as one of the best albums this year.

Blonde is a powerful, emotionally driven record that is crafted by artistic expression and heartache. Frank Ocean has stripped down his sound, and released something so honest and vulnerable that it exposes the rawest parts of the human consciousness. You won’t hear this album played in the clubs,

Markus Zusak, a talented young writer, is best known for his international bestseller The Book Thief. However, his lesser known masterpiece The Messenger, is not one to miss and makes for a great summer read. It has a little bit of everything. It’s mysterious, it’s witty and entertaining, with just a touch of romance.

“It’s mysterious, it’s witty and entertaining, with just a touch of romance.” This novel also deserves to be on the big screen. I rarely read novels twice, but I’ll definitely be reading this one a second time; just as soon as holidays arrive and I can lay on the beach, book in hand, without the overarching guilt that I should be doing assignments instead. The protagonist, Ed Kennedy, is a young taxi driver with little ambition in life, other than to win over fellow cab driver Audrey, who he’s secretly in love with. He lives

alone with his very old and rather smelly dog, The Doorman. His life is dull and monotonous; playing cards with his mates, having coffee with The Doorman, driving around town tediously picking up and dropping off customers. That is, until Ed is chosen as the messenger. Messages are delivered to him written on the back of playing cards in code. It’s up to him to interpret the messages and figure out who he has to help and how. Once he has completed his tasks, he is delivered a new card; a new mystery to decipher. Mission by mission Ed’s character grows, and gives new meaning to his once colourless life. I don’t want to give too much of the story away (that’s the point of a review of course!), so you’ll just have to trust me on this. It’s an exhilarating 386 pages of entertainment and suspense, and definitely a book I recommend adding to your summer holiday reading list.

Entertainment Summer reading list Rebecca Marshallsay

01. If the only pages you turn during semester are in your textbooks then summer is the perfect time to do some guilt-free reading for pleasure. Getamungstit has compiled a required reading list that is sure to give you a well rounded sense of relaxation by the end of the summer break. If you feel like doing some extra-curricular reading why not tell us about it by writing a review for Getamungstit Online?

The Assassin’s Apprentice Robin Hobb

02.Bossypants Tina Fey

03.Tattoo Stieg Larsson

Alchemist 04.The Paulo Coelho

Bossypants is the autobiography from the very funny Tina Fey (This is Where I Leave You, Sisters, Whisky Tango Foxtrot).This is a very readable, laugh-out-loud account of Fey’s experiences growing up and finding her way into comedy. She talks about learning improv with the likes of Amy Poehler and Rachel Dratch and how it lead her to writing for Saturday Night Live and beyond. And finishing Bossypants is as good an excuse as any have a marathon re-watching of 30 Rock.

If you missed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo when it was released, now is the time to find out what the fuss was all about this is one novel that is well worth the hype. The eponymous tattooed girl, is anti-hero, Lisbeth Salander, a troubled computer hacker who is thrown together with investigative journalist Mikael Blomvkist to solve a 40 year old murder. Tense, exciting and original; you won’t be able to put down The Girl with a Dragon Tattoo.

The Alchemist is a beautiful story about a young shepherd, Santiago, on his quest to find treasure and perhaps uncover his life’s purpose or ‘personal legend’. As Santiago journeys from his home in Andalusia to Egypt he faces many challenges and sacrifices as he seeks riches and adventure. This book offers you the chance to rethink your own journey and how you use the world around you to find opportunities and create your own personal legend.

The Girl With The Dragon

Entertainment

If you made your foray into fantasy with Game of Thrones then it’s time to explore the genre further with the first of the Farseer Trilogy, The Assassin’s Apprentice, by Robin Hobb. The story follows Fitz, a royal bastard who is transported from his everyday rural life to the royal castle of Buckkeep to be trained as an assassin for the ruling Farseer dynasty. The biggest plus about starting another fantasy series rather than pining over GoT is that Hobb has a track record of finishing her series in a timely manner.

Salem’s Lot

Months in a Leaky Bronze Horsemen 06. Five 05. The 07. Stephen King Paullina Simons Boat Ben Kozel We are sneaking another trilogy into the list but we know that you will be glad of the sequels when you finish The Bronze Horseman. Set against the backdrop of Leningrad during World War II, The Bronze Horseman follows Tatiana and Alexander through the deprivations of the Siege of Leningrad and war time Russia. This is a compelling mix of well written historical fiction and big romance that will appeal to readers of both genres.

Five Months in a Leaky Boat is the true story of Ben Kozel and his companions’ attempt to make a source to sea journey rowing 5540 kilometres along the Yenisey River. The intrepid group begin the journey in kayaks before purchasing and refitting a traditional wooden dory boat to traverse the world’s biggest inland body of water, Lake Baikal. The journey takes them from the Mongolian steppe and through Siberia before finishing in the Arctic Circle, and poses no shortage of physical and logistical challenges along the way.

So you’ve seen the Saw franchise and you sat unflinchingly through Wolf Creek but how’s your horror game in print? Salem’s Lot is the epitome of the classic creepy novel that gets your skin crawling and your spine shivering. Forget sparkly vampires who are going to single you out as their super-special love interest, these vampires are the real deal - there is something very bad lurking in the little town of Salem.

08.William Golding

Host 09.The Stephanie Meyer

of Pi 10. Life Yann Martel

If left to their own devices are humans inherently good or evil? Lord of the Flies is a modern classic that is included on most ‘Top 100 Books’ lists for good reason. When a group of young boys are marooned on an island without any adults (following a plane crash) they find themselves in a new world without any of the rules or governance of structured society. Tensions arise as they work to survive and establish the norms and power dynamics of their new, improvised community. Will they build an island utopia or does a world without rules lead to something darker?

Whether you loved, hated or refused to pick up Twighlight on principle, Stephanie Meyer’s stand alone novel, The Host, is worth a read. In a world where humans have been taken over by mind manipulating aliens, a handful of free humans live on the run and in fear of detection. On a supply run, Melanie is captured but the alien take-over doesn’t quite go to plan and Melanie finds herself battling for existence within her own mind. This sci-fi clash of wills is cleverly written and makes for a tense read. PS. Under no circumstances should you watch the film first, or at all.

Life of Pi is another novel that should be read before it is seen on film in order to appreciate the beautifully nuanced story and the captivating detail in the writing. A young boy Pi, is travelling with his family aboard a ship full of zoo animals when their vessel is sunk in a storm. Pi finds himself trapped on a lifeboat with a host of animal companions including a tiger he names Richard Parker. On the surface, Life of Pi is a fantastical tale of misadventure at sea but beneath that are touching themes of perception and belief.

Lord of the Flies

Entertainment Summer sounds Angel Nikijuluw Ready to chill out at the beach or go on a summer road trip with your friends and listen to some good music? I know I am!

This playlist grabs the best feel good, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;summeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tracks from this millennium and condenses them into less than 60 minutes.

Expect a collection of droning vocals and echoing guitars, followed by soft piano and evocative imagery, and finishing with plucky guitar riffs and indie-influenced sounds.

01. 02. 03. 04. 05.

06. 07. 08. 09. 10.

11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Headspins Splashh Boyfriend Best Coast Our Town Sticky Fingers Last Nite The Strokes Toast San Cisco

Holiday Vampire Weekend Runner Go Violets Ayla The Maccabees Pink + White Frank Ocean The Opposite of Us Big Scary

Strawberry Swing Coldplay Something Good Can Work Two Door Cinema Club Weekend Last Dinosaurs Mr Polite The Jungle Giants W-O-E Little Comets

Listen to this playlist online at bit.ly/getasummersounds

Are you a film nerd, music geek, book worm or online aficionado? Would you like to tell us what you think? Getamungstit is always looking for talented contributors and reviewers.

If this sounds like you, please drop us a line at getamungstit@griffith.edu.au and your work could be featured in our next edition.

Entertainment

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Being creative

Each year the Smallroom Writers Collective hosts Masters and Slaves – an event where students pen a piece inspired by a famous author, living or dead, to see who are the literary masters and who are the slaves. This year these four authors made it through the auditions and reigned supreme with their take downs and homages to Marguerite Duras, Nick Cave, Virginia Woolf, and the Bronte sisters.

A LETTER TO MARGUERITE Samantha Armatys Marguerite, I invited you here because I was wondering if you might be able to teach me something about being a woman. I never really learned with my bucked teeth and knobbly knees. Then she was sick and it was the kind of lessons that braces and books don’t teach you. How do you do that thing with the eyeliner anyway? It seems like you’ve always known since that moment on the Mekong with your floppy hat and sparkling gold shoes. I got the hat, but the shoes were just too uncomfortable and I never really mastered how to walk in heels. My feet have this way of pointing inwards so that I’ve got all the grace of a duck and it’s only accentuated by the uncertain wobble of being higher up than usual. Another drink? Do I even need to ask? They always said you drank too much but I think we both know a woman always drinks just the amount she intends to. You said you drank because you knew that God didn’t exist. Sometimes I drink until I think God does exist, and then some more until I’m really just not sure, and then more just because I like the taste. I bet you’re wondering why it’s you that I’ve bought here, to this place of dreams where the room is small and ornate and decorated like the inside of a catalogue. I know you probably would have preferred your chateau or a dark bar, but it’s my dream after all and I have a penchant for hexagons and the space between things so it will just have to do. It had to be you and it had to here because I have been looking for somebody else everywhere, on the street, in the

places where people breathe, and all I can seem to find is pastel coloured covers in airports, or sparkly vampires and women tied to beds and so many adolescents running around waving their wands. I guess there is Zadie and her White Teeth, or Chimamanda with her cutting satire, or one of the ones Oprah keeps shouting about, but I tried to phone them all and they all had important deadlines to keep or interviews with the most relevant magazines or luncheons with Beyonce to talk about the current state of feminism. The tiny voices of their assistants, a unified polished tweet: “Can I take a message?” “Can she call you back?” “Can you spell de Beauvoir?” Can you just send an email, it’s 2016 after all?” So here we are and I’m running out of things to say and it’s getting late and the bottle is almost empty. It seems like the appropriate time to propose a toast. Here’s to you Marguerite, to your face laid waste, and to mine, and to hers with its symmetry all gone, the elasticity abandoning her the way air abandons a balloon. Here’s to all you’re wonderful emotions, to all your words and to all your worlds. Here’s to Saigon and Hiroshima and France and the bed bathed in slivers of light as it shone through the cracks in the curtains. Here’s to the Chinese lover and the brother that was a kind of lover too and to the other lovers real and imagined, and to desire and longing and death. Here’s to women, those inside inverted commas, and those outside of them.

Being Creative

THE WOOLF WHISTLE Zarek Hennessy A virgin – at her birth – was the room. Extending from the house, erected by three men. The plasterboard porous, readied for fresh paint. A light pastel pink contrasted the skirting, baby blue. Within weeks of its completion an infant was placed inside. Womb to womb. Confine to confine. The smells of renovation undulated the hung mobile. The cot was replaced with a white frame bed, the mobile with a delicate mosquito net: pink, to blend into the walls, as though – the protection – it weren’t there. Building blocks riddled the floor on which she stood upright. A, B, C and more, carved into the pine cubes. Her father would enter to play, and build words and walls. Her mother would swoop at night and coo. Old enough to keep washed and tidy she was escorted from out of her room, past men with tins that strained their muscles, wearing cloths for shirts and tatters for trousers. The brushes swiped and splattered and bludgeoned the walls crimson. Drips, like dropped from out of fresh open wounds, were

lashed out at and smothered and plugged until the walls were fine and neat. A leather clad desk adorned with ball point pens replaced her bed. ‘Vacuumed carpets are as much a show to guests as they are a bid for cleanliness,’ says her mother, ‘make sure your father’s study is always spotless, dear,’ her mother’s eyes widen before a wink. The room’s door is flung open three times a day, at least. It is for his best interest: ‘your power must be seen, you must eat, you must stay clean,’ his daughter says, his hair scuffed up in her palm, as if lovingly. Mid sentence, mid vowel, amidst a breakthrough idea, there is an underlying thought: an echoing intrusion, a prophecy, that the vacuum turning on is more than just a sign of his power; it is turned on with the index finger of a history of women, a cacophony of millions of cleaners. After the filth is – along with his ideas – sucked into a vacuum, a foreboding silence amounts, leaving only a piercing Woolf whistle.

Being creative ODE TO COUNTRY AND CAVE Hudson Tesoriero Grafton McDonalds. You know – two-stories, looks like it’s on stilts. The love child of a futuristic flag-ship store and a dilapidated Queenslander. Stopping in to pollute my body on the way to Sydney. Eating a cheeseburger minus the meat-patty, like the shitty vegetarian I am. Staring out at the sunset, pink, orange, beautiful. The whole town surreal with the bloom of jacarandas. I think about Nick Cave. Not too far from here, years ago, I got into his music. A camping trip with my dad and his two friends. The greatest hits of The Bad Seeds on my iPod. All-day beer drinking, trekking, swimming in the billabong, laying in the swag by the campfire listening. Nick, born and raised in Wangaratta, rural Victoria. Surely not too different from where we camped. Once Deanna got her twisted hooks in me there was no turning back. A light switched on. I knew I’d found one of the best things Australia had to offer. More abrasive than AC/DC, darker than INXS, infinitely denser and more interesting than your later Silverchair or Powderfinger, and in some strange, subversive way undeniably more Aussie than Paul Kelly or Slim Dusty. Nick’s catalogue stands the test of time. Thick-skinned, hard-working and sarcastically self-destructive like much of our working class. Quick-witted and charmingly-coarse like many of our great thinkers and artists. Nick Cave, the great intersection. Australia’s emaciated national treasure and drugged-addicted prodigal son. Black hair-dye, warts and all. I remember sitting at the foot of some great tree, shedding its bark, roots bound to the ground like creeping IV coils. Younger, slimmer and handsomer then, I thought about my girlfriend. The prettiest one I’ve ever had. Inspired by Nick’s great love songs I’d begun to mythologise her. Looking forward to returning to her, like Odysseus to Penelope, kissing her, running my hands through her hair – colour of the wine-dark sea sailors call home. I finish my meal and return to the car. Heading south on the motorway running like a vein between the ocean and trees.

Bulahdelah National Park. Camping illegally in a borrowed tent. No mattress, just laid tarp and a sleepingbag. The grounds scattered with retired RV’s, bulky shadows in the dark. I drink a lukewarm can of VB and listen to the feed-back choir of crickets – nature’s whitenoise. More news from nowhere. Dig, Lazarus, Dig. She used to play it for me before I’d rise in the morning. Distant voices of family, a cat meowing somewhere, a cold breeze coming in through the sliding-door. Blanket pulled up to my chin, a woollen womb. I’ve always thought that was the best state to absorb music – half-asleep, half-numb, submissive. I won a vintage XL bad-seeds shirt on eBay and had it re-sized to fit by a cheap seamstress in Ho Chi Minh City. Cars groaning past coughing black-smoke. Side-stepping mopeds in a pair of tight black jeans. In and out of stalls and markets looking for presents for her and wearing him. Deaf to the street. Somnolent. Nick in my ear. Disregarding leathery faces and hands caked with blood and dirt. Personality changing. Nick – a vehicle to reimagine myself. A dark and romantic lens to see the world. To see her. I drink another beer and fall asleep as a southerly wind disrupts the midnight calm. Morning. Time to pack up and drive. Breakfast and coffee in Newcastle, the town atop of cliffs. The first time I visited was on tour with my band. A crude and primitive incarnation. Stopping in, like now, before Sydney. I thought Newcastle was amazing, the hills overlooking a sparkling blue expanse. I pictured troped scenes – forlorn widows facing the ocean, waiting for husbands never returning. Skateboarding down empty avenues with a gang in uniform. Black jeans, black shirts, black shoes. Passing abandoned factories, the stubborn old and disenchanted young. A forgotten hot-spot, charming in its own way. I thought of another girl then too. She grew up here. I tried to imagine her younger – all fair-haired, cheeky and energetic. I eat my

Being creative

breakfast on the docks. Smashed avocado on rye-bread and a long-black. The Good Son in my headphones. Nick’s twin son, Arthur, died in 2015. Fell off a cliff in Brighton. It’s hard to imagine the guilt attached. Nick was probably away a lot. I’m sure his son idolised him, the once maniacal scarecrow of Berlin. The whirling-dervish fuelled by speedballs and cutty-sark, spitting brutal biblical rhetoric and malevolent fantasy. Arthur with a head full of acid. I wonder if he was trying to be like his father – perishing in his shadow. Nick, Australian diaspora but inevitable Melbourne icon. Photographs of him in every second café and trendy hole-in-the-wall store. Nick’s town. The first time I visited was with her. Walking down freezing Brunswick and Chapel Street humming along to his songs and wearing his face on our shirts. Fucking passionately. Perversions and appetite encouraged by Nick. Many of my friend’s mothers slept with him in the 80’s. A couple of bastard sons had in the process. A vampiric Genghis Khan. A pretty girl once told me that when her mother was young, she lived with a friend in Saint Kilda. Both were fans of The Birthday Party – Nick’s early music-venture / frenzied destruction-unit. One night the mum woke up in the early hours to use the toilet. Walking past the kitchen, she saw a spiky, unfamiliar silhouette. Frightened, she quickly flicked the lightswitch to reveal Nick, sitting at the table eating a bowl of coco-pops. Dressed in his signature skin-tight suit, he politely introduced himself before continuing to eat. Her roommate had brought him home, contracting herpes in the process. A bitter reminder of the conquest. I laugh and finish my breakfast. Sydney awaits. The rough-road in. The main-line parting old earth and rock – like some clandestine passage into another realm. I imagine the red-sea divided for Moses and the Israelites by an interventionist god. I keep driving, keep pushing, pushing the sky away. I saw Nick for the first time in

Sydney, with her. There’s been multiple times since but it all started there. Impatient. Waiting all day in the same crowd at Homebake Festival. Edging closer to the centre, to the front, to the barrier. Thin bodies against cold steel. Eventually Nick emerged from some dark backstage corridor with Grinderman in tow. Black hair-plugs glistening under stage lights. Writhing and undulating like a perverse kabuki-dancer. The band, a heaving storm of bludgeoning rhythm and whacked out guitars. Nick crooning, wailing and hissing over the music. Pointing damning fingers at the audience. Staring individuals down. Her and I included. The audience shaking and bouncing, a sweat-pit of adoration. Warren Ellis, Nick’s right hand man and sonic-alchemist, stomping on this, riffing on that, summoning and manipulating all manners of sound, incendiary and atmospheric. A balding, bearded, conduit of noise. Eyes glued to my skeletal deity. He steps over the barrier in his marbled reptilian loafers and embraces us. Nick on my shoulders, grabbing at the longing outstretched hands of the audience. He sings about her. His her. Mine looking at him with an awe reserved for God. I’ve arrived. A bare room overlooking Pitt Street. I read Nick’s first book. Southern-gothic scenes, an ignorant and egregious humanity. Kicking against the pricks. It’s always been his words, his story-telling that’s kept me. I told him this when author, MJ Hyland, got me in contact proxy of their friendship. His reply was polite and succinct without really answering any of the questions I’d asked. But to even get the reply was, in the words of Eddie Cochran, something else. To break down the wall. I stare out the window now, watching all the people following their mouse-trails. How many individuals have the courage to risk it all? To love. To let love in. Congested traffic honking and wheezing. The city hued grey and green and the water’s edge never too far away. I think about her. From her to eternity.

Being creative

TOGETHER ALONE Sahib Nazari Since I first met Kathy three months ago, she’s been a brunette, a blonde, and back. Today a pink fringe is mingling with her shoulder length brunette hair as we sit in the pub, smoking. We’re both pretty drunk but alcohol isn’t why she’s loud and aggressive and silly all the time. She once told me her Australian mother left Dubbo when she was five and when her Aboriginal father was in prison. ‘Hey Matty,’ Cathy shouts but the music is too loud and the guy doesn’t hear anything and disappears in the crowd. ‘Who’s Matty?’ I ask. ‘Matt’s an old friend, I took his virginity back in high school.’ Says Cathy taking a puff. ‘About fucking time!’ I reply, my eyes fixed as if I’m talking to my cigarette. ‘No way, that was in high school.’ She replies. ‘What if we get high and make out in a high school? Will that do?’ ‘You fucking smart ass. Are you still a virgin?’ ‘Well, I never went to a high school in Australia but do call girls count?’ ‘You do call girls?’ her dark brown skin wrinkles her forehead as she speaks. Kathy and I met on the slaughter-floor. Normally, females only work in the cold-room because all the floor jobs are heavy-duty and full of blood and shit but she can’t work in the cold-room because she picks fights with girls more often than she does with boys. Ever since her dog was strangled by some kids when she was thirteen, she hasn’t been normal. Later, the girl responsible for killing the dog spent a year in a

Sydney hospital with eleven fractures in both her legs. Kathy had smashed her repeatedly with a cricket bat. One Sunday, Kathy and I drive out of town. We follow Old Dubbo Road all the way to Back Dubbo Road, turn right and keep driving until the dead end of Warri Road meets the bank of Macquarie River. There, under the shed of a might oak, we sit and smoke and get high like the midday Sun in the blue sky. Kathy likes chatting when she’s stoned whereas I embrace silence and become a stone. We have a great mutual understanding and a non-existent intimacy. When I go quiet, she goes bushwalking, picking flowers and imitating the songs of cockatoos and kookaburras and all. Here vocals are pretty bad and she pisses off all the birds every time she duplicates their songs and a spell of awkward silence follows. This silence choruses with the silence of the static river as the blistering sunlight kisses the surface of water reflecting a thousand bright colors. Restless, I pick up a stone with the aim to rock this silence. The stone feels warm, I wipe off the soil until the smooth silvery skin reveals itself. Shaped oval-ish by the currents and journeyed with the flow of water for years before hitting the shore, today it’s become a part of my story. I hold the stone in the palm of my hand before throwing it in the river to stir its silence, and mine. It’s been a week since Kathy was fired from the abattoir. She was declared too dangerous to work in an abattoir using knives or machinery. ‘Wanna go out tonight?’ she texts ‘Yeah, I’m dying to get pissed and see you

Being creative

pick a fight with the girlfriends of all the guys you fucked in high school.’ I text back. ‘We’ll do something different tonight, I promise.’ ‘I’ll come down but and I’m only coming down for a drive. Deal?’ I send it away. ‘Deal.’ She’s pretty wasted when she jumps into my car, a can of beer in her hand. ‘Drive,’ she says as she lights a cigarette. ‘Where to?’ ‘Where you can fuck me. Isn’t that what you want?’ she asks. ‘Kaths,’ I say, ‘I just want to know where we stand and where we’re going. I mean when will we stop this catch-up game?’ ‘Whenever you stop fucking whores.’ She squashes the empty beer can spilling the remains. ‘Just fucking drive, will ya?’ She says. ‘No. You’re drunk and you’ve no idea what the fuck you’re talking about. I think we should go home and we can talk about it tomorrow. I need time to think things through.’ A police car slows down to check on us as it drives by. Kathy gets out of the car and starts walking to stop the cops from pulling over. I press on the gas as she walks away. ***

*** Later in the week, under the spell of a red and orange outback sunset, I text Kathy. ‘Virgin no more!’ I press the send button. ‘Let’s catch up, the usual spot.’ her text pops up. After a long textual argument I agree to meet her. Half an hour later I get into her car and try to kiss her on the cheek. ‘No!’ She eye balls me and moves back, ‘you fucked a call girl,’ her voice gets louder, ‘you’re fucking cheap.’ She throws a punch at me. I catch her fist with both my hands. ‘Get outta my fucking car.’ She yells. ‘Well, we’ve been seeing each other for a while now but you don’t know where you stand. And I’m pretty sure there’re no virgins waiting for me in heaven. So you take care.’ I get out of her car. From this point on, we travelled back in time to become the strangers we still are today.

It’s still raining when I arrive at the motel. Jasmine answers the door and greets me, inside the room I walk, we hug and talk; she charges, I pay, she undresses, and I panic. I stress out as I undress, we kiss, we touch in the dark, there’s a moment and there’s a spark.

Illustrator: Erika Kunde Degree: Bachelor of Digital Media Instagram: @indigorain.art Being creative

Being creative

THE SEA AND ITS SAND Keegan Powhiro I’ve always loved the heat, the way the sun would cook my pale winter skin to a smooth caramel. It was bad, health wise, but I’d worry about that later. Cairns was always shit in summer. You’d sweat in the shower and sweat in your sleep. That isn’t the heat I wanted, not like on the coast where I could soak in every ounce of sunlight in the two days I had left of Schoolies.

Emily and Jess came back around four, quietly giggling with each other, trying and failing at silently closing the door. I heard them kiss through teasing smiles and the snap of their underwear elastic made my skin burn. They said they weren’t together, but I used to catch them kiss at sleepovers while the rest of us played truth or dare, in the camp of a foreign lounge room. Grade ten was a lot of self discovery for everyone.

My friends, Emily, Jess and I went together, everyone flew to the Gold Coast for Schoolies, but I hoped I wouldn’t see anyone I knew from home. I didn’t want to be me this week, I wanted to leave me in Cairns, searching for share houses, doing dishes and waiting for that uni offer. Did I even want to go to uni? After twelve years of school, I still didn’t get what this is all for. The passed out guy I had met at the beach party that night was snoring deeply and I remember wishing he’d just go home. It was a long night; we’d forgotten the condom and jumped in anyway. Idiot, I wasn’t even on the pill. He gave it his best shot, it was good, he came, I didn’t and he shut down for the night with a deep sigh of pleasure. My own sigh, bored almost, sank into the silence along with his. He smelt like alcohol and salt. His feet were sandy and I felt the little grains roll uncomfortably beneath my legs. I just wanted to go home.

I wondered what mum was doing. The hotel clock was glaring red in the dark, five in the morning, she would’ve been up, clutching a coffee, waiting for nine to call and ask how it’s all going. Eggs and toast for breakfast sounded good and so I tried my luck by checking the fridge where I found three pineapple UDL’s, half a Mars bar and a tiny milk carton. Nobody knew how to cook anyway so I snatched up the milk and sat out on the balcony. With phone in hand, I waited for Mum’s call and sipped my 150mL of sustenance for the day. I watched the dark sky and listened to the sleepy breaths of those still inside, dreaming. I waited for that heat I needed, for the sun to rise over Surfer’s with all its glare and shine, to call me down once again, to the sea and its sand.

Illustrator: Sam Dunn Degree: Bachelor of Digital Media with Honours Instagram: @sam_sturdy Being creative

UNDER CURRENTS The exhibition showcases the graduating works of Studio Art and Photo Media students from the Queensland College of Art.

WHEN

WHERE

FIND US

Exhibition dates:

The Arts Centre Gold Coast 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise, Queensland 4217

www.undercurrents2016.com

Friday 28 October 2016 Sunday 20 November 2016 Opening night: Friday 28 October, 6 to 8pm

SUPPORT US ON POZIBLE pozible.com/project/ undercurrents-exhibition

www.instagram.com/undercurrents.2016 For inquiries, email Dr Laini Burton l.burton@griffith.edu.au

CREATIVE CONCEPTS | GRAPHIC DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY | ILLUSTRATION IMAGE RETOUCHING | PRINT & WEB SOCIAL MEDIA | BRANDING Liveworm Gold Coast is staffed with a collection of skilled multidisciplinary design students, guided by a highly experienced team of industry professionals. The studio is also a creative incubator for student industry concepts, supporting the local business and cultural community. The studio opened its doors in 2008 after being converted from a grungy fine art and sculpture workshop into a creative studio and incubator space — under the wing of the 130 year old Queensland College of Art.

07–5552–7262

LIVEWORMGOLDCOAST.COM FACEBOOK/LIVEWORMGC @LIVEWORMGC

Liveworm Gold Coast designers are the future experts of their field. They know what’s current, enjoy predicting future trends and utilising classic design strategies. In the midst of a new studio image and direction— Liveworm Gold Coast is working towards a stronger position within the evolving creative Gold Coast culture. The team of students and staff embrace the changes that are occurring locally and globally and enjoy creating design outcomes that reflect this unique approach.

Being creative

Being Creative COMIC By Mic Smith

Do you want to see your work in print? Getamungstit is seeking high quality submissions of short fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry and other genres for our creative section. Email us at getamungstit@griffith.edu.au

GET THE HELL OUTTA HERE: Get the hell off the couch this summer Elleanor O’Connell The feeling of disappointment at the end of summer is something everyone has felt in their life. It’s a disappointment that you didn’t do all the things you said you wanted to do and spent the majority of your break inside binge watching TV shows. You even have the sad, bored couch selfies to prove it. This summer is going to be different though. Below are some incredible summer trips to go on, filled with so much exploration and adventure you’ll put Bilbo Baggins to shame.

PART ONE: OVERNIGHT EXCURSIONS Bald Rock & the Pyramid Located just along the NSW and QLD border, Bald Rock National Park sits right in the middle of Stanthorpe and Tenterfield. An incredibly scenic three-hour drive takes you to the base of Bald Rock, the largest granite rock in Australia. The National Park offers multiple walks with ranging difficulty but by far the most fun and most rewarding is the schlep up the bare side of the rock. There are two routes up to the spectacular monolith, and at the bottom of it you’ll see the two tracks. On the left is a steady incline through the forest, filled with enormous granite arches carved out by time. This first walk requires the least amount of fitness but is still sure to get your muscles aching by the time you make it to the top. Bald by name and bald by nature, this granite monolith provides an uninterrupted, 360º view of the surrounding national park as well as the neighbouring Girraween National Park. Though the walk will only take you around two and a half hours, a picnic is never a bad idea. There are plenty of natural

spots to sit and have a nibble while enjoying the absolute beauty this park has to offer. Just be sure to take all of your rubbish with you. If you were to follow the path to the right at the bottom of Baldy, you’ll find yourself looking up at a pretty impressive incline. Though totally manageable, this path up Baldy is not for the faint hearted, and requires a bit more endurance and determination to scale its steep slope. It’s a challenge but also a hell of a lot of fun, and as you feel your calf muscles ache you’ll find it’s not just the exercise that’s making you short of breath. Every time you turn around, you get a spectacular view. As this path isn’t marred with trees, it gives you the teaser trailer of what’s to come when you finally reach the top. It’s definitely not a walk to do in thongs or without any water. Girraween National Park also offers a fantastic climb, this one giving you the opportunity to have your life flash before your eyes a couple (or ten) times. The steep granite slope isn’t for the faint of heart and is to be completed at ones own risk. And just when you think Get the hell outta here

there couldn’t be any more stairs, think again. Thankfully Bald Rock National Park has a wonderful camping ground to sit back and relax in. Situated 30 minutes from any major towns, the Bald Rock is the perfect spot to escape to. The honesty-policy run campsite charges $11.50 per adult per night and an $8 per day park fee. Bald Rock offers facilities such as toilets, barbeques and drinking water sources making it a comfortable and accessible camping option. The region surrounding Bald Rock and Girraween has plenty more to offer with its many hiking and walking trails and local towns bursting with character. Whether it’s just the weekend or you’re looking for an extended getaway to spend some R&R with nature, this trip is definitely worth the climb.

EXTENDED SUMMER EDITION

Double Island Point If your spirit animal is a dolphin, turtle or any other majestic creature from the ocean, a Double Island Point camping trip should definitely be on your to-do list this summer. Hell, even if your spirit animal is a flamingo in gumboots, Double Island Point camping should still be on your to-do list. Located four hours north of the Gold Coast, Double Island with its glorious, uninterrupted stretch of sand offers one of the most serene camping spots imaginable. A 4x4 is essential to navigate over 50km of beach, kicking up sand as you stare out across the ocean. The quickest and most scenic route is to travel to Noosa and get the barge across.

Check out the national park’s website to assess whether you are capable of different climbs before attempting them. Do not attempt difficult climbs if you’re new to hiking and rock climbing.

As the beach doesn’t offer any electricity or toilets, Double Island is a camping experience for one’s inner Bear Grylls and isn’t a trip for a first time camper. With the absence of power, battery powered utilities and gas are necessities. Enjoy the ocean views and a trip through the bush via 4x4 to access the best swimming spots Double Island has to offer. The west side of the point softens any waves and currents from across the Pacific making it a fabulous place to spend your days. Grab an inflatable couch from Kmart before you go and kick back in the shallow pools, cool bevy in hand. Relax, throw back some beers with some good people and you have the recipe for an incredible summer vacay. When you’ve soaked up all the sun in the day, head back to camp to unwind by the camp fire (just don’t be the dick who pours gasoline on it). If you’re in a creative mood and want to create your very own piece of modern art, grab some tinfoil, chocolate, marshmallows and crushed biscuits. Fold it all up inside the tinfoil and put it in the coals for a couple of minutes. Unfold 83

the (scolding) hot tinfoil to unveil a deconstructed smore Heston Blumenthal would be proud of. Due to the fantastic seclusion from society offered by Double Point, there aren’t any pubs and shops near, so take a keen angler along with you to take advantage of the fishing opportunities right outside your front (tent) door. The beachside fishing offers all of your bread and butter fish species such as whiting, bream and flathead. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at catching a tailor and spend the day fishing to your hearts content. If fishing isn’t your strong-suit, have a wander down the beach and find one of the many trails up the steep dunes. Better yet, drag a body board with you and slide until you can’t slide no more. If you want to get out this summer and enjoy what our wonderful country has to offer, Double Island Point is your go-to trip. This incredible spot gives you the perfect opportunity to step back from crowded streets and noise and spend some time living life, as it should be.

Hervey Bay whale

Hervey Bay If camping and climbing mountains doesn’t float your boat, Hervey Bay certainly will. Known as the gateway to Fraser Island, Hervey Bay is a unique pearl located just over 4 hours drive from the Gold Coast. The gorgeous town overlooking Fraser sports a seemingly endless amount of activities to fill your summer days. Forget the tent and camp oven; Airbnb has you covered for your stay in Hervey Bay. With beach side private villas for two from just $98 you can plan yourself a little get away with your favourite person. If you’re planning a fun time with a group of friends you can find four bedroom, pet friendly houses with pools from just $131 a night; with eight people that’s a measly $17 a night per person. Whether it’s a quiet getaway or a summer of poolside drinking with mates, Airbnb is the best option for a Hervey Bay trip. Now that you have a place to stay, it’s time to find things to keep you

entertained. If chilling out is more your vibe, check out the dolphin watching cruise. The four-hour trip takes you along the waters of the Great Sandy Straits in search of a variety of different dolphins, offering a swim along one of the shallow banks, weather permitting. The trip offered by Experience Oz costs $70 per adult and $40 for children between four and 14 years of age. To relax even more, spend the day exploring Hervey Bay’s artificial reef. Aquavue on the water provides all of your hiring needs from kayaks to snorkelling gear to get the most from your holiday. When the need for adventure strikes, sign yourself up for a Fraser Island full day tour and explore the pristine waters surrounding the bay. $165 covers bush walking, snorkelling, fishing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and tubing as well as morning and afternoon tea and a BBQ lunch. Spend nine hours traversing land and sea, witnessing the beauty of Hervey Bay and Fraser Island. Back on the main

Get the hell outta here

land, Enzo’s on the Beach provides stand up paddle boards as well as kite surfing to those adventurous enough. The waterside café boasts a glorious breakfast and lunch menu ranging from eggs on the beach with ham and smoked salmon, to their superb Thai fish burger. For dinner, rent a bike from Aquavue and make your way up the esplanade. The stretch of shops overlooking the bay is full of beautiful restaurants and cafes to fill your belly after a busy day in Hervey Bay. Regardless of whether you’re staying for a weekend or a whole summer, Hervey Bay will never bore you with it’s incredible setting, amazing eateries and endless fun times.

PART TWO: DAY TRIPS If getting away for an extended amount of time isn’t in your plans this summer, check out one of our five fabulous recommended day trips to keep you entertained.

Rainforest adventure mountain bike tour, Byron Bay $139 pp Make your way to Byron Bay for a mountain bike ride through subtropical rainforests and ancient volcanic terrain in Byron. The three hour ride also includes a break at a swimming hole to have a dip and a rest while tucking into the lunch provided for you. Fire trails, single tracks and log jumps are all part of the trek as you weave your way through the incredible national park. Keep an eye out for the native animals roaming through the park, including goannas and if you’re lucky, a snoozing koala. Included in the cost is lunch and snacks, mountain bike, helmet and souvenir water bottle.

Horse riding trails, Numinbah $55-$110 pp Choose from a one, two or threehour ride through 2,500 acres of cattle property in the heart of the Numinbah Valley. Get to know the striking hinterland on the back

of a beautiful horse and enjoy an afternoon in nature. The two-hour hack provides you with tea and damper back at reception after the ride, while the three-hour trail takes you to the Nerang River for a swim, a billy tea and damper lunch. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or expert, these stunning trails make for a fabulous day out.

Tree Top Challenger, Tamborine Mountain $44-$120 pp The Tree Top Challenger in the rainforests of Tamborine Mountain offer 6 high rope adventure courses and one of Australia’s largest guided zipline tours. Tackling the high ropes takes you across nine acres of bushland, providing over 100 rope and wire challenges. The three-hour Zipline Tour takes you over seven ziplines across Cedar Creek Canyon, taking visitors 60 metres above ground and up to speeds of 70km per hour. Whether you attempt the high ropes or the ziplines, the Tree Top Challenger is going to give you one hell of a day out.

Candle making class, Burleigh $50 pp Queensland’s weather is fickle at best. When the rain gets too

much and you can’t possibly watch another episode of Gilmore Girls (lol who are you kidding, you could never get sick of the Gilmores), it’s time to get creative. Spend three hours refining your soy candle making skills, creating two soy jar candles and four soy tea lights. Alongside your new candle making confidence, you’ll also leave with clamshell melts so you can start making your candles at home. Now you’ll have some beautiful smelling candles to sit back and relax with as you stare out at the never-ending sheets of Queensland rain.

Wild Lime Cooking School, Darlington $130 pp Again, Queensland summer weather can be totally unpredictable, so it’s good to have some rainy day plans up your sleeve. The two-hour cooking class teaches guests to use native Australian ingredients in traditional cuisines, located in the Lost World Valley. With stunning views out across the hinterland, Wild Lime provides the opportunity to expand your cooking horizons from two minute noodles. After you cook your wonderful dishes, you are provided with a three-course lunch with local wines to fully enjoy your experience.

G E TA M UNG ST IT

WANT MORE GETAMUNGSTIT THIS SUMMER? Check out our online exclusive pieces at Geta Online: gugcstudentguild.com.au/getamungstit/online We are always seeking submissions of short fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, reviews, feature articles, opinion piecaes, news features, photography, illustrations, reviews and more!

Drop us a line at getamungstit@griffith.edu.au and your work could be featured in the next edition or Geta Online.

Or stay social by liking our Facebook page: facebook.com/getamungstit

24-28 OCTOBER Your experience at university will normally be smooth sailing but life gets busy from time to time and we are here to help. Take a break before exams hit and put your health and happiness first. The Guild is bringing you free workshops, yoga, games days and a jam packed stress less schedule. Find out more at gugcstudentguild.com.au |

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