The collective wisdom, behaviour, and influence of a crowd drive decisions, spark movements and share insights that reflect something greater than the individual. The Crowd, in unison, creates a broader picture that shapes the larger narrative.
Acknowledgment of Country
Avondale University acknowledges our Sovereign God as Creator and Provider of all things. We respectfully acknowledge the Awabakal and Darramuragal people as the traditional custodians of the lands on which we live, work, study and worship across our Lake Macquarie and Sydney campuses. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and extend that respect to all First Nations People.
Wellbeing Centre
Confidential counselling services for students experiencing academic, mental health, and personal concerns.
Phone: (SMS preferred)
Email: counselling@avondale.edu.au
(appointment queries only)
LM Campus: The Well-being Centre
SYD Campus: The Clinical Education Centre
Equity officer: equity@avondale.edu.au
Volunteer
The student associations always seek volunteers with a 'here to help' attitude. Want to be involved?
The Avondale Roost - Group “DoYouHave” Ella - Group Watson Hall - Group VOICE. INSTAGRAM
Taylah Jones: s @student.avondale.edu.au
Emily Chester: s @student.avondale.edu.au
Isaiah Ferguson: s @student.avondale.edu.au
TikTok
@avondale_uni
@avondalestudentlife
These people happenedbold, bright, and undeniable.
We are a platform where students and staff can share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences from their unique Christian perspectives, embracing and celebrating the uniqueness of each journey. It offers a space for the student body to reflect on the dynamic and evolving nature of our shared experiences. The Voice amplifies the diverse voices of students, not the university's official views, fostering an open community where different perspectives are valued and heard.
A huge thanks to the creatives who’ve sparked our ideas and added abundance to our workwhether it’s the resources, sources, photos, or the ideas we’ve included, broadened, and referenced. We’re tuned into the creative vibrations, syncing with our passions and the collective energy of the crowd.
Shout-outs
Shoutout to Hudson McGrath for bringing our pages to life with raw, unfiltered shots - people, the beach, and those moments that inject our magazine with vibrance. And to Jim Lounsbury and Tenzin Adair for turning a spark of inspiration into a cover that stops you in your tracks - your creativity powers this issue.
With deep appreciation, we thank the creatives and voices who brought this issue to life.
Amelia Ebens
Annalise Green
Anonymous
Aubree Harrington
Bailee McLeod
Bella Ebens
Brooke Twine
Caitlin Nikolic
Caleb Morton
Charles Waqa
Derek Rippingale
Ebony Dunne
Eleora Tawake
Elihon Taulapapa
Hannah Rowe
Hudson Courtney
Hudson McGrath
Isaac Bruderlin
Jim Lounsbury
Jocelyn Foster
Kalvin Dever
Lachlan Alderson
Lynnette Lounsbury
Mackenzie McGrath
Michael Edgren
Mikaela Matthes
Monique Rippingale
Olivia Carrasco
Olivia Morton
Rylan Croft
Samara Bentley
Stewart Stanton
Tahlee Bentley
Taylin Burgess
Tenzin Adair
FROM THE EDITORS.
TAYLAH JONES - EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
I'm from Newcastle, and it's a huge part of who I am. I’ll shamelessly plug my hometown whenever I can because I’m proud of it, and I totally get Morgan Wallen's love for his roots - consider this a shameless plug in itself. But what Newcastle gives me is a sense of being known, it knows me, and I know it.
When I first came to Avondale, I felt disconnected, unknown. “New” was the fabric of my days on campus, and I quickly realised there was a gap - a lack of creative outlets. I fell into this gap, and now my goal is to close it. For some, the Voice might just be another magazine, but for others, it's a creative space where they can feel at home at Avondale and feel known. This year, we’re focused on working with what students want and offering something bigger to connect to.
With this issue, I want the Voice to embrace being "in the know." You know people, you know what’s going on, and you feel connected to your community at Avondale - whether you’re here to study or just hanging around. This is a new Voice that, hopefully, you’ll find echoes your own.
EMILY CHESTER -
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Not everyone will shine in basketball, touch footy, or gravitate toward hosting a variety hour. Not all of us are loud and outgoing. So, how do we find community among the prominent personalities and projects on campus?
We create a new community for everyone at Avondale - a space to amplify quieter voices and share passions with others.
To the bookworms, theatre lovers, musicians, mathematicians, artists, and D&D enthusiasts - to everyone who may stand on the edge of the social limelight - welcome to your stage! Welcome to your community! We can’t wait to hear your voice!
ISAIAH FERGUSON - ASSISTANT EDITOR
When you see a magazine among a crowd of tabloids and books in a shop, what catches your gaze? The cover - it encapsulates everything you've ever wanted to know. Once you dive in, the pictures help tell a story, bringing life to what you're always hearing about.
What's important about these photos is their candidness. Sometimes, amateur shots are the real slice of cake, as opposed to a staged studio session. I'm all about capturing realness, the room’s vibe, and, most importantly, future nostalgia.
We hope you enjoy the Voice as it enters a new era. And personally, I hope you enjoy the photos that come out of it.
GOOD NEWS
FIRST ASTRONAUT WITH A DISABILITY CLEARED FOR SPACE STATION MISSION
Paralympian and orthopedic surgeon John McFall has been cleared for takeoff as the world’s first disabled astronaut. After losing his right leg in a motorbike accident at 9, McFall took up running and went on to win multiple sprint medals for Great Britain. Now, his latest endeavor is set to rocket him from the track to the International Space Station (ISS). In , he was one of selected from over , applicants for the European Space Agency’s (ESA) first astronaut class in years. One great leap for inclusivity!
MOVING AWAY FROM HOME IS TOUGH, AND OWEEK CAN BE OVERWHELMING. HERE ARE SOME THINGS HAPPENING AROUND THE WORLD THAT WE CAN ALL CELEBRATE AND BE GRATEFUL FOR!
KAYAKER SWALLOWED BY HUMPBACK WHALE, THEN SPAT OUT
Similar to the story of Jonah, a Chilean kayaker, Adrián Simancas, had the kayaker, Adrián Simancas, had the fright of his when a
humpback whale briefly swallowed him and his kayak off the coast of Patagonia. The incident, caught on camera, quickly went viral. A few seconds later, Ardrián resurfaced, followed by his yellow kayak an instant later. Incredibly, Simancas was unharmed, and the encounter, though terrifying, highlighted the immense size and power of the majestic creature. Experts were stunned, calling it a rare, unexpected interaction between humans and marine life.
NEW HOLLAND MOUSE REDISCOVERED IN PART OF BLUE MOUNTAINS AFTER TWO DECADES
Ecologists have spotted the threatened New Holland mouse in Wollemi National Park for the first time in years. The tiny mammals were lured with tea strainers filled with peanut butter and oats. Presumed extinct in NSW until its rediscovery in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in 9 , this is the first sighting since now the species has been the focus of increased conservation efforts. This latest find offers new hope for its recovery.
QANTAS INTRODUCES ZEROEMISSION REGIONAL FLIGHTS
Qantas has launched its first zero-emission flights using hydrogen fuel cell technology for select regional routes. This marks a significant step toward the airline’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by . CEO Alan Joyce noted that early trials have been promising, and the airline aims to expand zero-emission services to additional routes in the coming years. The initiative is part of Qantas’ broader sustainability strategy, which includes investing in sustainable aviation fuel and carbon offset programs. Experts believe this innovation could revolutionise air travel, significantly reducing the aviation industry’s environmental impact while maintaining efficiency and reliability.
Victoria Police, Barry Randall's life was nearly taken. A 99 attempt on his life ended in a fatal police shooting, leaving him battling PTSD and insomnia. Surfing soothed his soul. Now, over years later, Barry leads Operation Soul Surf, a movement helping veterans and first responders manage trauma. More than serving and former firefighters, paramedics, police, and defence personnel have graduated from his four-week program.
USING THE OCEAN TO TREAT TRAUMA One year into his career with
BEYOND THE CHAPEL
Hey everyone! I’m Aubree, one of the new chaplains here at Avondale University. I’m a Sydney girl through and through, but I must admit - there’s something surprisingly refreshing about seeing cows on my daily drive.
I’ve had the honour of pastoring at Kellyville Church since 2020, and it’s been an incredible journey. Now, I’m excited (and grateful!) that God has led me here for this next chapter. A few things I love? Travel and sports! Growing up with two brothers, I didn’t really have much of a choice - I had to love sports. These days, I still enjoy playing social sports, and if I’m not on campus, I’m probably at the gym. And yes, I already have my next four years of travel mapped out! (Budget pending… but hey, dreaming is free, right?).
What do you hope to bring to Avondale's spiritual space this year?
I’ve been deeply blessed by the practices of contemplative spirituality and love, walking the journey of faith alongside others. I have an interest in spiritual direction and creating space for meaningful reflection. Despite being Sabbath keepers, we often struggle to slow down the pace of our lives long enough to ask ourselves the deeper questions: How have I been experiencing the presence of God recently? What might be preventing me from hearing His voice? What is God trying to do in my life? Where is He leading me? If you have a yearning to experience God in this way, please reach out! I’d love to sit down with you and be intentional about your walk with the Lord.
What do you appreciate most about being part of a Christian university?
Having attended two Christian universities - and now being back on campus again - I’m reminded never to take for granted the kind of relationships that encourage and strengthen us in our faith. These connections are a gift, shaping us in ways we don’t always realise at the moment and often staying with us long after we leave this campus. I’ve actually come to appreciate the challenge of engaging with faith daily. It has pushed me to think deeply about how I view and understand the Christian life - sometimes in ways that are uncomfortable, but always in ways that help me grow.
What advice would you give those unfamiliar with a more contemporary worship experience?
Wow, that’s an interesting question! I believe worship is deeply personal. In John , Jesus describes the kind of worshippers the Father seeks - those who worship in spirit and in truth. True worship is about worshipping God, not just our worship experience. We may not always be familiar with certain styles, but staying open to new expressions of worship can create space for God to meet us in unexpected ways. And remember, what happens in a Sabbath service is just one part of worship. Worship is meant to be a daily response to God’s mercy - a life of true and proper worship, where we offer ourselves as living sacrifices (Romans : ). So, as you gather in the community, don’t forget to worship Him in the everyday moments, too!
How would you encourage students who do not share the Christian faith to feel included in Avondale’s spiritual community?
Don’t be afraid to ask the questions! One of the most beautiful things about the Christian community is that Christ invites us all indoubts, struggles, and all. Wrestling with faith isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an essential part of growing in it! One of the greatest encouragements Christ gives us is that He has not given us a spirit of fear ( Timothy : ). So if you’re new to the Christian community, we want to pass that encouragement on to you - you belong here. We welcome your thoughts and questions because, chances are, you’re not the only one searching and wondering who God is and why we worship Him. Let’s explore those big questions together!
ASA STUDENT PRESIDENT
Most kids would be somewhat excited if their mum offered to buy them new shoes – but I sobbed by the bin as mum threw my old, tattered joggers. You would barely know they were joggers, to be honest. Caked in mud from the mud run we had just finished, soles falling off from overuse and literal holes in the side. But ever the drama queen, I sat on the ground by the skip bin and cried because of “all the memories I had made of those shoes”.
You see, change has always been somewhat of a frenemy of mine. It’s scary approaching something new – or approaching something so familiar in a completely different way.
I used to joke that I came out of the womb eating haystacks with “Avondale” branded on my forehead. The call of the campus I could see through my childhood bedroom window was one that no one ever doubted I would follow, yet I could still feel my heart pounding as I walked into Ella Boyd on move-in day in .
Fast forward four years, and I am holding a sign and smiling at the new faces pouring onto campus. In each of their eyes, I see that same excitement and nervousness that I felt just four years earlier.
OLIVIA MORTON
This week, it hit me that this is my final year at Avondale. I have accumulated three years’ worth of memories that have shaped who I am today, and I am beyond certain that by the time I graduate in December (God-willing), I will have more to add to the mental scrapbook. As student president this year, my goal is to give every student the opportunity to experience Avondale in a similar way that I have - to discover who they are and where God is calling them to be and to find a lifelong community of friends (and maybe a special friend *wink*) to do it with.
I have learnt so much from the community of people around me. My friend Samara highlighted the value of sleep, Trina was the first to teach me how to style my curly hair, Caleb’s intermission speech during My Fair Lady taught me to laugh in difficult situations, and Jase Hinze helped me see the ministry in my career choice.
My hope for every student here is that their community will become like a good pair of shoes. Comfortable, supportive and visibly worn in from constant use.
Fortunately, unlike my old shoes, the community we build here doesn’t need to be thrown out at the end of the race. And while I probably will cry at graduation as I did at the loss of my shoes, I am certain that those who have done this leg of the journey with me will continue to support me from wherever we all end up.
I will leave Avondale appreciating how my time here has changed me for the better and hope that I was able to give back in some way to the next generations of first years to experience the infamous “Avondale XP.”
I hope that every one of you will be able to do
EMILY CHESTER THE “O” IN O-WEEK
Most people know that the "O" in O-Week stands for "Orientation" because the week is designed to introduce you to new locations, people, and experiences, helping you find your place at university.
However...
Not everyone agrees with that definition. In fact, people tend to align themselves with a few different interpretations of the "O" in OWeek.
"Oh" Week
For many, the first week of university is full of epiphanous moments like little plot developments in our own personal Netflix drama.
“Oh.” The moment you realise you have to do your own laundry… and hang it on public washing lines where everyone can see whether you’re a Bonds or Calvin Klein kind of person.
“Ohhh…” The comprehension you won’t be in a fraternity or a sorority because Uni is not like Pitch Perfect. (Unless you join The Promise...).
"Ohh, hello…" That undeniable moment when you make eyes with someone across the room at Speed Friending. (Don’t even pretend you don’t know the feeling).
0 Week ($0.00 Week)
For others, O-Week might as well be " Week" because it serves as an introduction to financial despair. A grim foreshadowing of your bank account balance if you’re not careful.
University life costs money. Caf meals, rent (not you, lucky first-years!), textbooks, and those retro cameras everyone’s obsessed with - it all adds up fast.
But let’s flip perspectives. There’s also a lot you get to experience for $ . : breathtaking views up College Drive, an inspiring spiritual community, and ACElab (seriously, do ACElab, people!). So, while your wallet may be suffering, your experience doesn’t have to be.
"Overwhelming" Week
Then, there's the group for whom O-Week might as well stand for "Overwhelming."
Not everyone finds new experiences and socialising easy. If you're more of a homebody, this week can be exhausting. Seeing peers having the time of their lives, glowing up overnight with the confidence of Ryan Reynolds on MAFS, can make you feel like something’s wrong with you.
To those of you who aren’t as loud, aren’t as trendy, or aren’t as happy as your peers seem to be, that is totally normal. If you’re feeling lost or lonely, you are not alone. You’d be surprised how many people cry on their first night alone in their dorm. You’d be even more surprised how many people are simply living by the mantra, “Fake it 'til you make it.” (Even some of your lecturers probably are).
Advice from a First-Year Survivor
Having survived my own “First-Year Fear”, here’s what I’ve learned: Do the hard thing. You’re more likely to regret what you didn’t do. Go to that social. Talk to that person. Even if it’s awkward - it . makes for great stories later. Do it for the plot!
. Don’t pretend you’re okay if you’re not. There are so many people here to support you. Honestly, you’d be hard-pressed to find a girl in Ella Boyd who wouldn’t give you a hug if you needed one. And Watson boys… well, I’m not a guy, but “The Brotherhood” is strong here. So, band together, I guess...
. Never become a mime. Mimes are silent, invisible, and lonely. They copy others, hoping to fit in. But the best kinds of friends and the greatest stories come from being unapologetically yourself. If you're a dance-on-the-table kind of person, start a mosh circle. If you're a read-in-the-corner type, turn your dorm into a personal library (a flex in Ella!).
Moving Forward
So, let’s step into Semester with whatever O-Week brought us—wisdom, anxiety, a crush—and move forward with all the confidence and individuality we can muster. It’s going to be a
What are you studying, and what drew you to it?
I’m studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching (Primary). Working in the field drew me to teaching. When I left high school, I didn't know what I wanted to do. A church member offered me an opportunity to work in out-of-school care, where I discovered my passion for working with children in the primary space. Looking back, I think God was pointing me in this direction.
What’s the biggest takeaway from your first week at uni?
I am coming from Deakin University in Melbourne, and the community at Avondale is welcoming, friendly, and God-centered, which is the opposite of my university experience in Melbourne.
What’s something about you that surprises people when they first find out?
I love to cook. I make a tasty paneer makhani and occasionally make Golden syrup dumplings.
What’s one random skill/hobby you have that no one at uni knows about? I was a sound tech at church for the last - years.
What’s the easiest way to go from stranger to friend with you? Talking is the easiest way. Followed by waving. The best way to get to know me is to chat about sports, history, movies, and God. I'll be honest. I enjoy just hanging out, but I can be awkward when getting to know people, so sorry in advance. :D
What’s an opinion you’ll defend no matter what, even if it is absurd? Star Wars is better than Star Trek. It's just more fun, even if it's sometimes slightly more ridiculous.
What’s a totally unnecessary but fun item you brought to uni? That would have to be some Lego I brought to build: some cars and tiny plants.
What’s a personal goal you’ve set for yourself this semester?
My personal goal for this semester is to aim for at least a distinction across the board.
What’s one thing you hope to gain from uni that's totally unrelated to your degree?
A closer relationship with God, which is one of the big reasons I moved here. Another would be making friends with new people.
What’s the biggest unexpected curveball or challenge of uni life so far?
The biggest curveball for me would be coming to Avondale. I started off my uni life in Melbourne, but it took God moving explicitly through last year for me to end up dropping everything in Melbourne and making the move to follow his path.
FRESH
Starting uni is a whirlwind - a chaos-filled blur of new faces
What are you studying, and what drew you to it?
I am studying secondary teaching, majoring in English and minoring in Chaplaincy. I am a people person, and I value making connections, so I wanted to teach so I could have the ability to do that throughout my career, hopefully having a positive influence on my student’s lives. The idea of becoming a chaplain really excites me, as Jesus is one of the biggest things that gets me excited, and the thought of being able to share that with people as my job feels like it’s right up my alley.
What’s the biggest takeaway from your first week at uni? Remembering people’s names is one of the most important things when meeting people, as it shows you value them and breaks the barrier in being able to talk to them again; it’s a key way to form friendships, and especially in teaching, will be applicable in the rest of my career.
What’s something about you that surprises people when they first find out?
That I came to Avondale this year.
What’s one random skill/hobby you have that no one at uni knows about?
I write music.
What’s the easiest way to go from stranger to friend with you? Come say hi, and I’ll probably start yapping.
What’s an opinion you’ll defend no matter what, even if it is absurd?
QLD is superior to NSW.
What’s a totally unnecessary but fun item you brought to uni? A harmonica.
What’s a personal goal you’ve set for yourself this semester? Do a bible study every morning.
What’s one thing you hope to gain from uni that's totally unrelated to your degree?
Long lasting friendships and a stronger relationship with God.
What’s been biggest unexpected curveball or challenge of uni life so far?
Living with constant sleep deprivation, but it’s all good because it’s for the mems.
AMELIA
AMELIA EBENS
RYLAN CROFT
RYLAN
FACES
makes all the difference. Meet the fresh faces of 2025, hear th
What are you studying, and what drew you to it?
I’m studying business teaching because it’s cheaper than business.
What’s the biggest takeaway from your first week at uni?
Sleep is necessary, but experiences are more necessary - not coming to Avondale uni is the worst decision of anyone’s career.
What’s something about you that surprises people when they first find out?
I love to sing, dance and act. I love musicals and dancing.
What’s one random skill/hobby you have that no one at uni knows about?
I can sell things very well. I’m a good salesperson.
What’s the easiest way to go from stranger to friend with you?
Be in my vicinity, and I’ll probably end up chatting to you anyway.
What’s an opinion you’ll defend no matter what, even if it is absurd?
Jalen Brunson is the # point guard in the NBAand it’s not even close.
What’s a totally unnecessarily but fun item you brought to uni?
Budgie smugglers.
What’s a personal goal you’ve set for yourself this semester?
Make as many friends as I possibly can.
What’s one thing you hope to gain from uni that's totally unrelated to your degree?
An Avondale basketball championship… and maybe a girlfriend?
What’s the biggest unexpected curveball or challenge of uni life so far?
Having to study.
What are you studying, and what drew you to it?
I’m a secondary teaching student majoring in biology with a specialty in HPE. Shoutout to Mrs Carrasco and Mrs Radford - my Year & bio teachers - who made biology fun and uplifted and encouraged me! I’ve always loved sports, especially basketball and swimming, and want to inspire girls to stay in sports – I figured this was a good way to do that.
What’s the biggest takeaway from your first week at uni?
I’ve lived in Cooranbong my whole life, so I’ve been around Avondale and knew it had an amazing student experience (# in Australia - how good!), but the amount of support here still surprised me. I feel blessed to be where deans, RAs, lecturers, staff, and students genuinely care about each individual.
What’s something about you that surprises people when they first find out?
I’m a pretty open book and naturally social - even more so since starting uni. I asked a couple of my friends to help answer this, and they said they were surprised about how well they get along with me and how funny I am. So Sweet! Maybe I look really serious or something?
What’s one random skill/hobby you have that no one at uni knows about?
I can juggle - though I’m not sure it’s as cool as I think it is. If holding your breath counts, my record is minutes and seconds.
What’s the easiest way to go from stranger to friend with you?
I'm super keen to make new friends, so it's pretty easy at the moment. I am always down for a chat about music. I love to sing, so I love getting to know other musical people! Being interested in looking at rock pools on the rocky shores or swimming at the beach is also an easy way to befriend me.
What’s an opinion you’ll defend no matter what, even if it is absurd?
I’m sure I’ll get slightly bullied for this since pineapple on pizza is already such a hot debate, but have you ever tried corn on pizza? It’s so good, and I’ll defend it wholeheartedly.
What’s a totally unnecessary but fun item you brought with you to uni?
I didn’t bring it, but I live less than minutes away, so I’ll grab it later. I have a melodica - kind of like a mix between a keyboard and a saxophone. My parents think it’s ridiculous, but it’s perfect for long road trips.
What’s a personal goal you’ve set for yourself this semester?
Other than passing all my units, I hope to make it to the top in the basketball competition! My team is pretty cool! Come cheer us on!
What’s one thing you hope to gain from uni that's totally unrelated to your degree?
The biggest one is a stronger relationship with God! I'm super lucky to have amazing friends who are willing to help me learn and grow in my walk with God!
What’s been the biggest unexpected curveball or challenge of uni life so far?
Kinda silly - after high school I was keen to start over, have a new schedule, and be organised unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Thank goodness for the amazing library tutors!
CALEB
CALEB MORTON
EBONY DUNNE
EBONY
WE ARE NOT GOING TO BE FRIENDS AFTER UNIVERSITY.
TAYLAH
JONES
I was once told that if you don’t find friends in high school, you will at university. It was said with the kind of certainty reserved for adults. I guess I imagined these friendships would be effortless, forming like condensation on a cold glass - inevitable, easy, just waiting for the right conditions. When the main condition is timing, it’s more than just meeting someone - it’s about navigating the collision of different life stages, experiences, and paths, pulling you in different directions.
Truthfully, most of us will not be friends after university. This isn’t a tragedy. People move, new routines solidify, and the texture of your days shifts. To be fair, some will hold on. Some of my friends speak of catching up with their uni crowd as if it’s an immutable fact as if they’ve cracked some secret code I missed. I nod when they tell me this. I believe them. But it’s not an immutable fact. It’s not just that life shifts pulling us apart; it’s that we’ve outgrown each other quicker than I expected. There’s a certain innocence in thinking every bond will last, untouched by time’s wear. But that innocence fades - and honestly, for me, it has.
Some friendships start like accidents. You sit next to someone in a lecture, pretending you did the readings, complain about deadlines, student Wi-Fi, and how the coffee always tastes slightly burnt. And then, somehow, you’re in each other’s lives - no big moment, no declaration, just the quiet certainty that this person gets it.
Other friendships are more deliberate. You notice someone, their offbeat sense of humour, a genuineness in their tone, or their inherently natural confidence, and wait for the right moment to start a conversation. These ones are trickier. It takes effort, a careful kind of courtship, which sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t.
Like most, I’ve had friendship breakdowns. They were subtle, quiet things you don’t realise are ending until months later when their absence no longer feels temporary. These people knew my preferred brand of hummus, all my favourite hometown spots, and who saw me when I was truly unwell. And I knew them, too: their sentimental rituals, the introspective poetry they read when sad, and their gatekept strange snack combinations. I assumed we’d always share things like these. But that’s the problem with assumptions: they work until they don’t.
Endings have a way of slipping in unnoticed. The gaps between texts, unanswered invites, missed birthdays, and the growing realisation you no longer know the details of their life. You bump into them, exchange pleasantries, mention coffee (which won’t happen), and walk away feeling like you collided with a memory. Whether the breakdown was quietly mutual or something they wanted but never shared with you, the silence isn’t accidental, and that’s the hardest part to accept. You wonder if they notice - or if they, too, are searching for something that’s already gone.
What’s tricky is mourning a friendship that never officially ends but simply fizzles out. There’s no funeral, no closure, no neat conclusion. Just fewer messages, fewer brunches, fewer reasons to call. Then, one day, it’s been six months since you spoke, and instead of sadness, you’re just fine. You’re still left with questions that linger, filling the spaces where answers should be, and quiet insecurity that comes from someone who failed to give you what you needed. It wasn’t necessarily malicious, but their supposed unintended insolence still stings.
But whatever the circumstance, the friendship mattered; it fit a moment, and moments end. You can miss someone and still know it’s over, feel hurt and hold compassion, grieve and move on - both can be true. But that doesn’t mean I feel any joy in how it ended or that I won’t avoid them until time dulls the sting. Truthfully, growth is complicated - it doesn’t require resentment but demands boundaries. Sometimes, those boundaries take the form of a quiet goodbye, a truth settling in long after the words are spoken. It’s not that you don’t care anymore; you’ve come to understand what deserves your energy. Holding on when it’s draining you isn’t loyalty; it’s self-doubt. And the hardest part? Choosing yourself feels like a betrayal, but it’s not. Not every person you meet is meant to stay in your life forever, and that’s not failure; it’s just how it goes. Sometimes, I wonder if I hold on to fading friendships out of guilt as if keeping them alive proves I’m a good person. But, if we’re being honest, friendship is more selfish than we admit. We stay friends because we get something - validation, entertainment, a sense of belonging. When that fades, we’re left holding an empty cup, pretending there’s still something worth holding on to.
And the thing about uni is there is no space to breathe, and tension festers. You’re thrust into the rawness of it, forced to face endings and harsh truths. You see them across the room and wonder how something so familiar became so distant, feeling the sharp sting of almost saying hello. What remains is memory - a peculiar form of haunting. Shared sabbaths sprawled across sun-warmed grass. The mid-semester breakdowns that lukewarm coffee and debriefing on the library’s red lounges soothed. These memories exist untethered now, stripped of continuity, but still sharp, vivid, and intact.
Friendship is not singular; it may simply be a series of brief, electric exchanges. Perhaps we spend too much time thinking it should be something different other than what happens when life continues on its own trajectory, indifferent and unstoppable.
So, I’m honouring the friendships for what they were, holding onto memories, not their weight. I’m trying to trust that letting go creates space for connections that evolve into who we’re becoming. So, here’s to my friends who uncomplicatedly recognise me and continually meet me where I am in a way that feels assumed, though it’s not. And to those who slipped from the space we once shared, the ones I won’t carry beyond uni, I wish you well.
TAYLAH JONES
TAKE A PHOTO WITH SOMEONE WEARING THE SAME COLOUR SHIRT AS YOU.
GET A PIC UNDER THE MAJOR CITIES SIGN BY COLLEGE HALL.
XP CHALLENGE FOR FIRST YEARS
Get to know Avondale, its people, and your new community through a fun photo Bingo challenge!
Complete any five challenges in a row, across, down, or diagonally, and take the photos as shown in the prompts, and caption them.
Rules: You’ve got to be in every photo, strike an appropriate pose, and you must be a 2025 first-year student.
GET A PHOTO WITH SOMEONE FROM A DIFFERENT YEAR LEVEL.
TAKE A FUN AND SILLY GROUP PHOTO WITH AT LEAST THREE PEOPLE.
SNAP A PICTURE WITH YOUR FAVOURITE LECTURER.
TAKE A CLASS SELFIE.
BINGO Card.
SNAP A PIC WITH SOMEONE STUDYING A DIFFERENT COURSE.
GET A PHOTO WITH A MEMBER OF THE ASL TEAM.
TAKE A FUN PHOTO AT THE AVONDALE POOL.
SNAP A PHOTO IN YOUR DORM’S FOYER. STRIKE YOUR BEST “STUDY POSE” IN THE LIBRARY.
TAKE A PHOTO WITH YOUR CAF MEAL GROUP.
SNAP A SHOT AT THE BASKETBALL OR TENNIS COURT.
TAKE A PICTURE IN FRONT OF A CAMPUS LANDMARK.
CAPTURE A SHOT NEXT TO THE AVONDALE UNIVERSITY SIGN.
GET A PIC AT AN ICONIC PLACE OR STUDENT HOTSPOT ON CAMPUS.
TAKE A CREATIVE PHOTO IN FRONT OF BETHEL HALL.
TAKE A PHOTO AT SEVEN.
SNAP A PICTURE WITH SOMEONE WHO SHARES YOUR MUSIC TASTE.
CAPTURE A PHOTO WITH YOUR FRIENDS AT A CAMPUS SOCIAL EVENT.
GET A PHOTO WITH YOUR DORM NEIGHBOUR.
Then, DM us @thevoiceavondale on Instagram or email us [thevoice@avondale.edu.au] with your photos, a caption describing each challenge you completed, your name, your course, and a fun fact about yourself! Submissions close Friday, March st at PM - the most creative entry wins a $5 Voucher for Seven, judged by your ASL social leaders.
The winner will be featured on our Instagram!
GET A PHOTO WITH AN RA.
TAKE A PICTURE AT YOUR FAVOURITE SPOT ON CAMPUS.
SNAP A PHOTO IN FRONT OF THE UNIVERSITY CHURCH.
TAKE A PICTURE WITH SOMEONE FROM YOUR HOME STATE.
PIC OR IT DIDN’T HAPPEN
On the
CURATED, NOMINATED, AND ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT.
Radar.
Spotlighting the stuff worthy of your attention.
FROM THE SOUL
EMOTIONS ON SHUFFLE : LOVE, LOSS, AND GROWTH COLLIDE IN THESE TRACKS - WHETHER YOU'RE LOST IN NOSTALGIA OR FIGURING IT OUT. R&B TO BROADWAY, IT’S THAT RAW, REFLECTIVE VIBE THAT STICKS WITH YOU.
1
“Tears on My Pillow” – Piʻilani Arias One of my
heartfelt vocals over a soothing, melodic arrangement, making it the perfect introduction to favourite Hawaiian ballads. Piʻilani Arias delivers Hawaiian contemporary music. This song feels like a warm ocean breezegentle, nostalgic, and deeply touching.
“Faithful to the End” –Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
The Brooklyn Tabernacle
2
choir is probably the artist I listen to most in gospel music. This song is a moving declaration of trust and devotion, with rich harmonies and dynamic orchestration that elevate it beyond a simple worship song. Even if gospel isn’t your usual genre, the sheer passion in this performance is impossible to ignore.
3
4
Heritage Singers have long “Something Beautiful” –Heritage Singers The
been known for their uplifting and inspirational gospel music. “Something Beautiful” is a simple yet profoundly moving song about transformation and renewal. Its gentle harmonies and heartfelt lyrics make it a great addition for those looking to explore gospel music beyond the mainstream.
“Open Arms” –Mariah Carey
Originally by Journey, Mariah Carey’s version of “Open Arms”
transforms the
classic rock ballad into an R&B-infused powerhouse. Her stunning vocal control and emotional delivery bring new life to the lyrics of longing and reconciliation. It highlights why Carey is one of the greatest vocalists of all time - effortless yet deeply expressive.
5
7
“Broken Pieces” - Israel Houghton He is a trailblazer in blending gospel with contemporary Christian music and worship. “Broken Pieces” is a redemption and hope anthem filled
with soulful instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics. Houghton’s ability to fuse gospel, rock, and R&B elements makes his music accessible to listeners of all backgrounds.
8
“6, 8, 12” - Brian McKnight
Brain McKnight is a master of smooth, heartfelt R&B ballads, and “6, 8, 12” is a perfect example. It’s drenched in longing and nostalgia, and McKnight’s soaring falsetto and delicate piano-driven instrumentation make this a standout track for anyone who loves classic 90s and early 2000s R&B.
“Missing You” –Mary J. Blige The
“Missing You” is a heartfelt R&B ballad about love and loss, carried by her soulful voice and vulnerable delivery. If you’re undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, brings raw emotion to every track she touches.
“unfamiliar with Blige’s catalogue, this song is a great entry point into her signature blend of pain, resilience, and vocal mastery.
6
“Journey to the Past” –Christy Altomare (from Anastasia the Musical) Broadway musicals
can offer a unique mix of storytelling and vocal artistry, and this song from Anastasia is no exception. Christy Altomare’s rendition is filled with hope and longing, capturing the essence of a young woman searching for her identity. It’s a beautiful introduction to musical theatre for those who may not typically listen to show tunes.
9
“Lovesick” – TRIBL / Maverick City Music
Maverick City has been
revolutionising modern worship with their raw, spontaneous, and deeply emotional songs. “Lovesick” is an intimate and passionate expression of devotion,
blending gospel, contemporary Christian, and soulful improvisation. Whether you’re familiar with worship music or just looking for something emotionally powerful, it draws you in.
CHARLES WAQA
SPOTIFY SAID SO
WHEN SPOTIFY TALKS, WE LISTEN: HERE ARE TODAY’S TOP 10 CHRISTIAN TRACKS.
Sourced from Spotify’s "Top Christian & Gospel" playlist, these are the songs making waves right now.
Want more music? C heck out this playlist on Spotify “Good Christian Music” - By Amen Worldwide.
All Fall Down
The Belonging Co, Henry Seeley
. Better Yet Leanna Crawford
. Hard Fought Hallelujah
Brandon Lake, Jelly Roll
Jesus Loves
Zach Williams
When I Fall
Katy Nichole
Vulnerable
Ellie Limebear, Samm Henshaw
. That’s My King
CeCe Winans . I Know A Name
Elevation Worship, Chris Brown, Brandon Lake
. Constant - Live
Maverick City, Jordan Sparks, Anthony Gargiula
. You Never Gave Up On Me
The Afters
This one’s about a Brooklyn escort who gets into a wild, messy relationship with the son of a Russian oligarch. Think drama, scandal, and a whole lot of societal norms being challenged.
Buckle up for this one: a three-and-a-half-hour epic about a visionary architect, László Tóth, played by Adrien Brody. It’s heavy, it’s long, but if you love architecture, you’re probably already sold.
Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan. That’s it, that’s the pitch. Directed by James Mangold, it’s a biographical musical drama that’s either your dream or a test of how much “Timmy” you can handle.
Vatican drama alert! Ralph Fiennes (yes, Voldemort) stars in this intense story about the secretive process of electing a new pope. Intrigue, politics, and faith collide in a way only the Vatican can deliver.
A Mexican lawyer is offered an unusual job to help a notorious cartel boss retire and transition into living as a woman, fulfilling a longheld desire. This one is also a musical - but in Spanish.
THIS YEAR, THERE WERE FILMS NOMINATED FOR BEST PICTURE - AN ECLECTIC, ARTISTIC, AND DEVASTATING MIX OF STORIES ABOUT REAL AND IMAGINED CHARACTERS LIVING COMPLEX AND WILD LIVES. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT HERE WERE THE TOP :
If you aren’t already holding space for Wicked, where have you been? This is a musical (yep, another musical) retelling of The Wizard of Oz with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Now you’re singing Defying Gravity and will be for the rest of the week.
Definitely the wildest ride of the Oscar noms. A loose and manic narrative examines the unforeseen (are they unforeseen though?) consequences when a new drug allows people to inhabit a younger version of themselves. The ending is… damp.
Two estranged siblings embark on a road trip, grappling with old family trauma. Nervous cough Fiction, yeah… definitely never happened to any of us. Kieran Culkin is in this one - and we love Kieran.
This one actually looks like the sleeper hit. Set in 8, during his last month of middle school, a -year-old Taiwanese American kid learns what his family can’t teach him: how to skate, how to flirt, and how to love his mum. Cue much good emotion.
A documentary by a Palestinian-Israeli collective on the destruction of Masafer Yatta and the alliance between activist Basel and journalist Yuval. A powerful look at displaced people fighting for justice, with a % rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Wicked
The Substance
No Other Land
Anora The Brutalist
Emilia Pérez
Dìdi
A Real Pain
Conclave
A Complete Unknown
BEST PICTURE WINNER
HISTORICAL SHORT STORIES
THESE STORIES DIDN’T JUST SHAPE LITERATURE - THEY REDEFINED IT, EXPOSING HUMAN NATURE, CHALLENGING THEIR ERA’S NORMS, AND INSPIRING GENERATIONS OF WRITERS. CHANCES ARE, SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE AUTHORS ARE BORROWING FROM THEIR PLAYBOOK.
THE NEW YORKER
THE LOTTERY
BY SHIRLEY JACKSON 9 8
The Lottery by Shirley Jackson is a short story set in a small town where residents gather for an annual tradition. Initially, the mood is festive, but as the townspeople draw slips of paper, the atmosphere shifts, leading to a shocking and violent ritual. Jackson explores themes of conformity, societal pressure, and the darker aspects of human nature. It critiques blind adherence to tradition, urging readers to question the practices and customs that societies unquestioningly follow.
THE YELLOW WALL-PAPER BY CHARLOTTE PERKINS GILMAN 89
The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is a short story that follows a woman confined to a room by her husband under the guise of "rest therapy." As she spends more time isolated, she becomes increasingly obsessed with the room’s yellow wallpaper, seeing patterns and figures within it. The story explores themes of mental health, gender roles, and the oppressive nature of societal expectations. A powerful early feminist work, it critiques the treatment of women’s mental illness and the limitations placed on them in the th century.
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY
A SOUND OF THUNDER BY RAY BRADBURY 9
A Sound of Thunder by Ray Bradbury is a science fiction short story set in the future, where time travel has become a commercial venture. The story follows a man named Eckels, who joins a time-travel safari to the prehistoric past to hunt dinosaurs. Despite warnings about the importance of not disturbing anything in the past, Eckels panics during the hunt and steps off the designated path, unintentionally killing a butterfly. This seemingly small action sets off a chain of events that dramatically alters the future. The story explores themes of the consequences of seemingly insignificant actions and the fragility of time.
OLD MAN AND THE SEA BY ERNEST HEMINGWAY 9
The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe, follows an unnamed narrator who insists on their sanity while recounting the details of a crime they committed. As the story unfolds, themes of guilt, paranoia, and mental instability come to the forefront, culminating in a shocking and intense conclusion. Poe masterfully explores the effects of a disturbed conscience, creating an eerie atmosphere through the narrator's descent into madness. This psychological horror tale is a chilling examination of guilt and the fragility of the human mind.
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway tells the story of Santiago, an aging Cuban fisherman who sets out alone on a deep-sea fishing expedition after days without a catch. His enduring struggle against a giant marlin becomes a battle of willpower and perseverance, symbolising man versus nature. Set in the waters off Cuba, the novella explores themes of isolation, resilience, and the human spirit. Hemingway’s prose captures Santiago’s determination and ultimate defeat, portraying the dignity of struggle, even in the face of failure.
ACADEMIA
THE
STAFF PICKS
Ever wondered what your lecturers read when they’re off-duty? Probably not - but we’re telling you anyway.
BROOKE TWINE - LECTURER
As a historian I tend to gravitate to, you guessed it, historical fiction and historical non-fiction. History is a subject that resonates with all of us, it can inspire us, warn us and foster a curiosity to explore people and events of the past that have impacted our present. Considering this, here are my two picks.
ELIE WIESEL NIGHT
Nobel Peace Prize winner, Elie Wiesel composed his historical narrative, Night, that recounts the horrific events during his time as a Jewish prisoner in both Holocaust death camps, Auschwitz and Buchenwald. The text is a testimony of his time in those camps, emphasising fleeting memories of images and feelings; the fires, the children, and the cold, that became a part of his soul. In a world where antisemitism is fiercely on the rise, this text is especially important with its unforgettable message, that the horrors of the Holocaust must never happen again.
SPEECHES THAT CHANGED THE WORLD
Speeches That Changed the World is a compilation of speeches from significant leaders who changed the world for better or worse. The text features political leaders, spiritual leaders and cultural leaders that drove significant change. Powerful women who moved beyond the traditional patriarchal parameters imposed on them have been particularly inspiring to me, namely, Queen Elizabeth I, Emmeline Pankhurst and Golda Meir. Other speeches including Elie Wiesel, Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill are particularly stirring in their bravery in the face of persecution and catastrophe. Also, it provides the opportunity to delve into the minds of evil madmen, such as Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin, and while their speeches may be an uncomfortable read, they serve as warnings of the potential calamities than can befall humanity if they are the only voices being heard.
PERCIVAL EVERETT’S JAMES. FICTION
Percival Everett's James is a raw and brilliant flip of the Huckleberry Finn story, retold it from the point of view of the enslaved African-American, James (Jim). It is a witty and poignant exploration of identity, language, and the absurdity of societal labels and a truly grim and unflinching depiction of the realities of racism in America. It is funny, it is awful, it is philosophical, and it is absolutely worthy of its Man Booker Prize shortlisting. Everett also wrote ‘Erasure, which was made into the phenomenal film American Fiction. He is one of those people who are just so smart it feels like a gift to be on the same planet at the same time they are.
BEN AARONOVITCH - THE RIVERS OF LONDON SERIES FICTION
As a lifelong urban fantasy girl, The Rivers of London series is perfection to me. It blends crime and gritty underworld fantasy with humour, mythology and somehow also jazz music. It follows Peter Grant, a London police officer turned apprentice wizard, who investigates supernatural crimes in the city. Rooted in Celtic and African folklore and filled with witty dialogue, the series portrays a magical London where rivers are personified, spirits roam, and danger lurks in the unseen corners of the metropolis. And there are already books in the series, so you can binge.
JAPANESE ROLE PLAYING GAMES
Are you sick and tired of multiplayer games? Are you tired of paying exorbitant amounts of your hard-earned dollars for a game you could quickly finish in a day? Want to play a game that will leave you questioning, “How did we end up here?”. If so, you may be looking for a Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) to scratch that itch! Luckily for you, I am somewhat of a JRPG connoisseur. To help you search for a game that will quickly take a week to finish, allow me to recommend 5 JRPGs that I think will fit anyone’s search.
FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE
Starting off our list is one of the most iconic names in the JRPG genre. Final Fantasy VII Remake is a reimagining of the of the same name. The story follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary, as he fights alongside the ecoactivist guerrilla group AVALANCE to stop the Shinra Electric Power Company from sucking the earth’s resources dry. As Cloud and his allies, Barret, Tifa and Aerith, take a stand against Shinra, they uncover a sinister plot, something or someone, that is tied to Cloud’s past.
FFVII Remake is the perfect way to experience this classic and timeless tale, with its modern graphics and its real-time action combat, making the series more accessible to players who may not enjoy turn-based combat. FFVII Remake is only the first game in a trilogy, alongside FFVII Rebirth and a third game yet to be revealed - so this one will definitely keep you playing for a while.
PERSONA : RELOAD
Have you ever dreamed of being a Japanese high schooler - making friends, taking exams, organising how to spend your days - oh, and scaling a massive tower filled with shadow creatures that only appear during the ‘Dark Hour’ that you have to defeat using the manifestation of your inner self? Then Persona Reload may be the game for you. Take control of the protagonist as he starts his new life at Gekkoukan High School. Team up with your classmates to enter the tower Tartarus to uncover the truth of the ‘Dark Hour’ - but don’t forget your studies.
Voice notes that not all computer game content is for everyone. If you want to check if something suits your preferences, we encourage you to check out commonsensemedia.org for comprehensive information on content and ratings.
DRAGON QUEST XI S: ECHOES OF AN ELUSIVE AGE
Dragon Quest is seen as Final Fantasy’s older yet less popular sibling, made by the same developers, Square Enix. Dragon Quest XI follows the story of the Luminary, who embarks on his th birthday to discover the truth of his mysterious destiny. He learns he is the reincarnation of a legendary hero, destined to defeat the ancient evil threatening his world.
DQXI is another perfect game to start your JRPG journey with, especially for those who grew up watching Dragon Ball Z, as the art for the game is done by the late Akira Toriyama. Embark on an epic quest filled with an engaging turn-based battle system, rich storytelling, fantastic world-building, and a cast of lovable idiots. DQXI is also a great starting point for anyone wanting to get into the series, as it is the first game chronologically.
XENOBLADE CHRONICLES
You can easily sink hours into Persona Reload, with its vibrant menus, contagious turn-based battle system, and, most notably, its infectious soundtrack - I guarantee it’ll have you adding at least a song or four to your playlist. If climbing a tower is not your forte, but performing heists to steal hearts is, I recommend Persona Royal.
Last on my list is my all-time favourite game. The story follows a young boy named Nier, who lives in a post-apocalyptic world with his sister, Yonah. Nier embarks on a quest to find a cure for Yonah’s mysterious illness, dubbed ‘The Black Scrawl’. On his journey, he teams up with a talking book, an unfiltered swordswoman, and a kind-hearted boy. This gang of outcasts quickly become like family as they uncover the truth behind their world and the ‘Shades’ that threaten their existence.
NieR Replicant ver. . is a mature game, but with it comes the questions of the meaning of life, the ethics of sacrifice, and the value of human emotions. The game is relatively short but intends for you to play through times to see the true ending. While playthroughs sounds like a task, trust me, I’ve played this game multiple times from start to finish, and each time is as good as the last. This is the game I highly recommend for anyone who wants to try a JRPG for the first time, especially given how expansive the NieR universe is (NieR started as a spin-off to a joke ending of a different game called Drakengard, and there are books, mangas, and concerts that expand on the lore - and they’re all canon.).
If you’ve played Super Smash Brothers, you will already know Shulk, Pyra, and Mythra. Well, then, my fourth recommendation is Xenoblade Chronicles. It is one of those games that went under the radar when it was first released on the Wii back in . The story follows a young mechanic named Shulk, who is trying to discover the secrets of the Monado – a weapon capable of destroying the Mechons. After Mechons attacks Shulk’s village, he learns that he cannot only wield the Monado but also see into the future with it. Shulk embarks on a quest for revenge, trying to uncover the truth behind their attacks.
Xenoblade Chronicles has been remastered several times on the DS and the Switch and still holds up as one of my all-time favourite games. It features a great cast of characters, an immersive world, and a truly unique battle system. The game can sometimes be challenging, but luckily, the Switch version offers difficulty customisation.
ARTICLES TO READ
These personal essays and long-ish reads are all about growth, good vibes, and reading just for the fun of it - no “have to” here
Jan Society GIRLS
YOU DON'T NEED TO DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
Stop selling your life off so cheaply to strangers
HOW TO BE A BETTER MAN RIGHT NOW
Jun Tech & Society PLOUGH
Players, coaches and team owners sometimes do terrible things. What, if anything, should their fans do about that? Dec
From self-care to macho manifestos, being a guy is hard. Here’s our best guidance on looking, feeling, and living better
Frictionless relationships are just a fantasy Jan Spiritual MY EDGE
CHATGPT GOES TO CHURCH
Should large language models write sermons and prayers?
Feb Tech & Society LITERARY HUB
CAN YOU STILL BE CLOSE TO SOMEONE WHOSE POLITICS YOU DESPISE?
Americans are rethinking estrangement in Trump’s 2nd presidency
Our religions, stories, languages, and norms have been shaped through mobility and exchange Feb
It can feel as if without what you’re waiting for, life halts and ceases to progress. Jan
WE’RE ALREADY AT RISK OF CEDING OUR HUMANITY TO AI
Machines, Monsters and Why Humanity is Still Worth Fighting For
THE WALRUS
WHY DO I MINIMIZE MY PAIN?
I've lived with chronic pain since my twenties, but over time, I began questioning my beliefs about my limitations.
DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOUR ROUTINE AND RITUALS?
Scrolling my camera roll to remember what I did last weekend Feb
Debatable if I do! Jan &
This is an opinion
PHOTO ESSAY
How it works:
Three themes. One challenge. photos. The winner will win a $50 Visa card voucher. Judged by your ASL media officer.
. Choose a Theme: Pick one of the three themes below that resonates with your creative vision.
Themes: "Faces of the University", "When We Weren't Looking", "Echoes of a Semester".
. Capture 10 Photos: Assemble a series that encapsulates your chosen theme.
. Tell the Story: Submit your photo essay to our Instagram @thevoiceavondale or email us [thevoice@avondale.edu.au] by 3 PM Friday, April 4th. (Optional: you may add a short caption or thought for each image).
THE HOTTEST : IS TRIPLE J STILL THE VOICE OF AUSTRALIAN MUSIC?
It seems that nowadays, the only thing people associate youth radio station Triple J with is their yearly countdown, which runs through some of the “best” music from the year. First coming to fruition in , the voted-on list has been a staple of Australian music for over thirty years. However, in recent years, it has become clear that the Hottest is not what it once was.
So why do I say all this? Well, this latest countdown has left many people in shambles. The edition of the Hottest has got people fired up, and one of the main reasons for this uproar is the low number of Australian artists featured, with only making the cut and just songs out of . This has sparked major concern, mainly because it signifies the decline in the number of local Australian artists featured on bigger platforms. But is Triple J even considered a “big platform” anymore? Or has the renowned radio station finally bitten the bullet?
And now it’s opinion time. I actually liked this year’s Hottest way more than the previous one. The songs were more banging, and I didn’t find myself too disappointed by the selections. I think the freak-out over the small number of Australian songs on the list is unwarranted. In , there were only Australian songs featured. In , the debut year of showcasing the year’s most popular songs, only Australian songs made the list.
A lot of news articles have cited a decrease in Australian music over the past two years, suggesting the industry is shifting as a whole. In reality, this shift has already occurred. Social media plays a significant part, as Australian music isn’t often promoted on these platforms. With TikTok offering such a wide variety of sounds and audio, it’s become common for international music to peak and dominate these charts.
Another factor is the widespread cancellation of festivals, with several last year alone. Bluesfest, Splendour In The Grass, and Groovin The Moo all fell victim to live music abolition and were cancelled for various reasons, from poor ticket sales to safety concerns. Triple J feeds off large events like these to maintain its popularity with young adults. If cancellations continue, Triple J risks losing this connection.
With all these faults combined, it’s easy to see why people believe the Hottest may be a dying medium. Personally, I remain hopeful that this is just another phase and that we may once again see a resurgence in local music promotion and advertisement
Now, onto the unavoidable topic - the whole concept of a young adult radio station in the first place. Triple J, initially called “Double Jay,” first hit the airwaves in January . Double Jay defied the odds by becoming the first non-commercial rock station to broadcast on Australian radio at a time when mainstream “peak” radio was littered with serious discussion, and only a select category of music was allowed. Thus, the long-standing trend of showcasing new artists who would not typically get “normal” airtime began.
Today, it’s common knowledge that the number of people still listening to FM broadcasting is rapidly declining. With the rise of podcasts and music streaming over the past two decades, it’s become more mainstream to control what you listen to rather than having it dictated by staff at a radio station.
I think it’s important that a community continues to exist for Australian youth, connecting through music that wouldn’t be found without the help of promotion and advertisement. However, the way it’s presented needs a serious rehaul. Radio just won’t cut it anymore - it’s a dying medium. They also need to stick to their roots: cut the political stuff, the ads that take up more airtime than actual songs, and the forced raunchy conversations. The reason people listen is the music - give the people their music.
ISAIAH FERGUSON
AUSSIE ART
TRIPLE J HOTTEST LIST
Triple J Hottest 100 Top 10 2024With a Twist: This year, we’re swapping in two homegrown Aussie acts for each of the top 10 tracks.
AUSSIE ALTERNATIVE ARTISTS
JACQUI LUMSDEN
KAT PENKIN
AUSSIE ALTERNATIVE
AUSSIE ALTERNATIVE ARTISTS
LEXY LUIESE
MIA RODRIGUEZ . BILLIE EILISH
AUSSIE ALTERNATIVE ARTISTS
ANYA ALCHEMY
CHARLI LUCAS
AUSSIE ALTERNATIVE ARTISTS
IST SWAPS.
AUSSIE ALTERNATIVE ARTISTS
BLUSHER
ALBI.
LUPO.THEBO CLUB
ADDISON RAE
FRED AGAIN.., ANDERSON, P AAK,
CHASE & STATUS X STORMZY
DOM DOLLA & TOVE LO
OCEAN ALLEY
GIGI PEREZ
BILLIE EILISH
SPACEY JANE
SHABOOZEY
CHARLI XCX
ARTEMAS
GRACIE ABRAMS THE
DOMINIC
AUSSIE
G FLIP
What’s On
“Where to connect, recharge, and tune in”.
GO-TOS
Fireside Friday March
An incredible opportunity to fellowship, worship, and serve alongside fellow teens from all over.
Church Services Saturdays . AM
Aiming to inspire, equip and empower people to respond to God’s love and calling.
Check out their calendar to always be in the loop
Week : Monday March - Saturday March
For one week each semester, Avondale hosts Festival of Faith (FOF) on both the Lake Macquarie campus. FOF features nightly talks by powerful and inspirational speakers from around the world, as well as other social and relational activities throughout the week.
Fridays on Campus . PM
A Friday night programme run by and for Avondale Uni students. SALT was born from Mark : : “Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”
Where: Upper College Hall or Uni Church
Check out their instagram for the latest news
COMING SOON
people to serve and connect with communities in need. Each midsemester break, Avondale teams join this ADRA-led initiative to make a difference
The Long Jetty Festival is a vibrant community event featuring over food stalls, markets, and live music. While it was cancelled in due to local council conflicts, it’s set to make a grand return this March. Stay tuned for more details on their page!
Where: Long Jetty Foreshore Reserve, Tuggerah Parade
When: March
Instagram: @longjetty.festival
Website: https://longjettyfestival.com.au/
The Jungle Giants
The four-piece band returns after a two-year break, celebrating their new single "Hold My Hand." Expect their signature infectious indiedance sound, defined by groovy basslines, upbeat tempos, and a playful yet anthemic vibe.
Where: Newcastle University - Bar on The Hill
When: April
Instagram: @thejunglegiants
Tickets: Oztix
The Newcastle Writers Festival, one of Australia’s largest regional literary events, features writers and 9 free and ticketed events. This three-day celebration is a must-attend for book lovers and aspiring writers, offering the perfect chance to get inspired, meet authors, and explore the world of literature.
The Melbourne/Naarm trio, which has supported bands like Ocean Alley and Hockey Dad, is known for its genre-hopping sound. Blending blues, surf, garage rock, and punk with psych influences, their latest album, “Find Me A Cloud”, showcases their evolving style.
Where: Drifters Wharf, Dane Drive, Gosford
When: April
Instagram: @thegrogansband
Tickets: Oztix
What’s On
“Local happenings worth checking out”.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Fashion Thrift Society
FTS is Australia’s largest curated pre-loved and vintage market, expanding to 9 cities across two countries in . With community, culture, and creativity at its core, FTS offers feel-good shopping with over stalls featuring vintage fashion, handmade pieces, and local art. Enjoy $9 all-day student entry with your ID, free entry from – PM, or complimentary access if it's your birthday! More than just shopping, it’s a festival of style, music, and community where fashion lovers unite in an inclusive, electric atmosphere.
This event is also happening on the Central Coast and in Sydney - scan the QR to visit their website for more details.
Where: Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Broadmeadow
When: April
Newcastle City Farmers Markets
Local food and drinks markets with food trucks and live music.
+ stalls of street food, handmade goods, and local finds.
Where: Speers Point Park, Park Rd, Speers Point
When: Held on the st and rd Sunday of every month ampm.
Instagram: @homegrownmarkets
Instagram: @fashionthriftsociety
Tickets: Moshtix
MORE AT @NEWY MARKETS
REGULARS
Pre-loved, upcycled, and vintage clothing and accessories. Made and Found Markets
Where: Webb Park, Redhead Beach
When: Every second Sunday of each month - am- pm.
Instagram: @madeandfound_
Food and handmade goods stalls supporting small businesses. Maitland Community Markets
Where: Maitland Showground, Blomfield St, South Maitland
When: The first Sunday of every month - 9am- pm.
Instagram: @maitland_community_markets
SPECTATOR
READY TO DITCH THE SCREENS AND EXPERIENCE LIVE SPORTS ACTION? HERE'S YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING MATCHES IN THE NEWCASTLE AND CENTRAL COAST AREA FOR THE MAJOR SPORTING CODES!
McDonald Jones Stadium - Newcastle Tip: Take the train to Broadmeadow and enjoy a -minute walk to the stadium, or drive and park in the back streets off Lambton Road.
Newcastle Knights (NRL)
Thursday, March , : pm: Knights vs. Dolphins
Sunday, April , : pm: Knights vs. Wests Tigers
Sunday, April , : pm: Knights vs. Sharks
Thursday, June , : pm: Knights vs. Sea Eagles
Saturday, June , : pm: Knights vs. Roosters
International Football
Newcastle Jets (A-League)
Sunday, March , : pm: Jets vs. Western United
Sunday, April , : pm: Jets vs. Wellington Phoenix
Saturday, April , : pm: Jets vs. Central Coast Mariners
Don't miss the Matildas vs. Korea Republic at McDonald Jones Stadium on Monday, April , : pm! Tickets available at Ticketmaster.
Industree Group Stadium - Gosford
Sunday, March , : pm: Mariners vs. Perth Glory
(A-League Men)
Sunday, March , : pm: Mariners vs Brisbane Roar
(A-League Women)
Sunday, April , : pm: Mariners vs. Macarthur FC
(A-League Men)
Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
For AFL fans willing to travel, support the Swans at their home.
Sunday, April , : pm: Swans vs. Port Adelaide
Sunday, May , : pm: Swans vs. GWS Giants
Saturday, May , : pm: Swans vs. Adelaide Crows
State of Origin - Allianz Stadium
Thursday, May , : : Women’s State of Origin Game
While the Men's st game won’t be in Sydney, mark your calendars for Maythe kickoff of the State of Origin series at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane. If you’re on campus, get ready to pick a side… Or it may be chosen for you.
ISAAC BRUDERLIN
The ACELAB tassie hike when we would do a little devotion at night time. Something about being in nature with like-minded people and digging into the bible was hectic.
TAYLIN BURGESS
When I went to a salt choir rehearsal, and everyone started singing and splitting into harmonies, it felt so amazing to be in a room full of people all worshipping through music and connecting with each other.
OLIVIA CARRASCO
Walking around the trails on campus while praying and talking to God. Being in creation and worshipping my Creator fills my heart with joy and connects me with God every time.
MICHAEL EDGREN
S P I R A T I O N
When a group of us did morning worship and sunrise at the beach.
ANONYMOUS
A lecturer who didn't know me that well emailed me when I was in a sad time and said he had a dream he needed to tell me I was going to be okay and that God is with me. And it was weirdly specific.
EMILY CHESTER
Jason Hinze asked who was certain they’d get into heaven, and no one raised their hand. He got teary and said if God was a true father, He would never turn away any of His children who wanted to be near Him.
INSPIRING
SPIRITUAL MOMENTS ON CAMPUS
WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR NEWS?
level up your news game. Here’s the lowdown on where to go for info that doesn’t have an agenda.
Reliable News Sources for Young People
If you want a well-rounded perspective, it’s best to get news from multiple sources, including bipartisan outlets that report on global, national, and local issues without sensationalism or fearmongering. What does bipartisan mean, I hear you say? It means they try pretty hard to avoid taking a side or enhancing one particular angle.
Best of the best old school news outlets: Reuters (UK)
Why it’s worth your time: No fluff, no spin - just straight-up facts.
Why you’ll vibe: It’s global, credible, and drama-free. NPR (US)
Why it’s worth your time: Deep dives and legit research without too much opinion. Why you’ll vibe: Podcasts you can listen to while pretending to be productive. Al Jazeera English (QATAR)
Why it’s worth your time: Coverage you won’t get from Western media. There more people in the world that just Americans, remember?
Why you’ll vibe: More perspectives = less echo chamber energy. ABC News (AUS)
Why it’s worth your time: Funded by taxpayers, not ads. No sneaky motives.
Why you’ll vibe: Aussie and global stories that actually matter SBS News (AUS)
Why it’s worth your time: Focuses on issues like migration, Indigenous communities, and diverse voices. Why you’ll vibe: Keeps it real without being dry.
LYNNETTE LOUNSBURY
For the Social Media Guys and Girls
Triple J Hack
Why it’s worth your time: Youth-focused news on everything from politics to pop culture. Where to find it: Podcasts, TikTok, Insta. Easy. The Daily Aus
Why it’s worth your time: News made for Instagram - with explainers that even your mate who “doesn’t do politics” can follow. Where to find it: Insta, TikTok, their website. Junkee
Why it’s worth your time: A spicy mix of pop culture and serious news. Where to find it: Your go-to when you want the vibes and the facts.
The Algorithm Isn’t Your Mate
Here’s the truth: social media isn’t neutral. It’s built to keep you scrolling, not informed. Algorithms push content that gets you reacting, not thinking. And that’s where it gets dodgy.
Clickbait Chaos: Ever seen a headline so dramatic it could win an Oscar? Yeah, they’re banking on you clicking before questioning.
Engagement = Exposure: Hot takes and extreme opinions get pushed to the top. Nuance? Never heard of her.
Microtargeting Madness: Ads tailored to your previous clicks can limit what you’re exposed to.
How To Outsmart The Feed
Follow a mix of reliable news sources (hint: see above).
Fact-check random claims (Google it, or hit up RMIT FactLab).
Don’t get sucked into the outrage machine—breathe, think, then react.
Stay Informed, Stay Empowered
Being uninformed makes you vulnerable to manipulation, but staying informed doesn’t have to feel like chore. It’s about finding sources you trust, staying curious, and avoiding the rabbit holes designed to stress you out. Knowledge is power - but only if you’re using it right. So, go forth and be the informed, unbothered baddie you were born to be.
REAL TALK
Meet
the Panel
Derek Rippingale - Avondale Business Alumni of '87
How do you build meaningful, genuine connections with people?
DEREK: As an introvert, I find it easier to connect with people when we’re working on something together - like a shared task or goal. I’ve learned not to put pressure on myself to have a ton of friends; instead to appreciate the ones I do have. Most connections are just for a season, but a few last a lifetime, a
TAHLEE: I think that I build meaningful connections by investing time into people and friendships and finding shared interests and hobbies that we can bond over.
STEWY: To build connections with others, I find it essential to be present, authentic, and to show a genuine interest in those around you. In being present with people, I find it builds meaningful connections by fostering trust and understanding. Being authentic allows others to see who you really are, which encourages honesty and showing genuine interest in people shows that you value and care about them.
KENZ: ngful connections with people is when I have been purposely intentional with them. I know for myself that it’s so easy to get wrapped up in our own busyness and our own lives that sometimes, the intentionality falls by the wayside. Being intentional allows you to ground yourself in your life and in the lives of your friends. It may look like making a mental note when your friend mentions something they like or something that makes them happy and then being able to find a way to make that happen. Do they have a hobby that they really enjoy? Try giving it a go with them! Is there a snack that they mentioned they are obs
CAITLIN: I think it’s important to actually just talk about what’s going on in your life. Not just small talk but how you’re really doing. Letting your people know the details, talk about your family, talk about your work, talk about your achievements and goals. Let people know every part of you, not just bits and pieces. I also think the importance of building memories with others is underrated. You don’t always need to do the same things, don’t just go to each others house or get a meal. Try a new sport together, go to a bible study, go on a hike or visit a new suburb. We seem to forget the importance of adventure as we get older and I think it’s time to rethink that.
What’s been an unexpected way you’ve found community at Avondale?
DEREK: I’ve been surprised by how community can grow out of shared experiences. After leaving Avondale, I’d bump into fellow graduates maybe many years later, and we’d immediately pick up again or even connect in a way that felt stronger than when we were students. It’s like the Avondale experience gave us a bond that I didn’t realise back then.
TAHLEE: The th year girls really took me under their wing last year and I created incredible friendships and bonds with those girls. Sport and salt have also helped me to find community at college.
think, and maybe even change the way you see things.
STEWY: I've found community in some unexpected places, like the cafeteria. Casual conversations over meals have led to meaningful connections with people I might not have met otherwise. I've also found unexpected connections at Avondale through living in the dorms. Sharing common spaces and daily routines with other students has led to forming close friendships and a strong sense of community.
KENZ: Honestly, in my first year, I caught COVID halfway through o-week and a bunch of us got sent up to level’ in girls' dorms to isolate. There, I met Emilie Jackson, and we quickly became friends. I ended up joining her turbo touch team and meeting all her friends, who ended up becoming my friends not too long after that. Also, spending time with all the other isolated students during that time is where I found some of my closest friends; I mean, it’s where I met my amazing boyfriend. Definitely unexpected hahaha.
CAITLIN: When I first went to Avondale, I thought I was going to be busy with new people every day, and for the first little while, I was, but I found true community through lifelong friendships. And you don’t make these friendships hanging out in huge groups all the time; true community is found in the smaller, more intimate moments. I always felt I needed to go where everyone else was going through my first-third year at Avondale, but I realised in my final year how much I just wanted to be with my people. Eating Thai food on the floor of the fourth level lounge in Ella Boyd is what made my community, not going to Cathos with 7 people on a Saturday afternoon. Yes there’s space for that. But I didn’t expect to find so much value in my group of 8 girls, that truly became my found family.
How do you see God at work in your community, whether at Avondale or in your greater community?
DEREK: I really believe God’s always working ahead of us, setting things up before we even notice. I tend to see Him in the everyday moments - like a good conversation or a small kindness - more than the churchy stuff. Out in the wider world, I love spotting those little signs of His presence. It’s amazing how He’s moving, even when we’re not really expecting it!
TAHLEE: I see God moving on campus every day, whether that be in dorms in bible studies, or at church doing different service work like clean up Australia day. Also, with the growth of people in dorms and the connections that the first year are making, I think God is very present at Avondale.
STEWY: I see God's work in my community through the acts of kindness and compassion that people show each other as well as the support they give and their willingness to lead in all areas of the community. I also witness His presence in the unity and fellowship that come from regular worship services, bible studies, and community events that bring us together and provide a shared purpose.
KENZ: Through the people who always make time to come over, say hi, and see how you are going. There’s a lady at uni church who I imagine almost everyone would know, Shortie. Love that lady. As soon as she sees you, doesn’t matter if it’s across from the other side of the church, she will come over with the biggest some on her face and all the enthusiasm to match it just to find out how you are and what you’ve got going on in your life. She really makes an intentional effort to make everyone feel included and at home at uni church.
CAITLIN: I have actually left the Adventist system and now work at a Baptist school. Though this system is so different to the Adventist system in which I was raised, I see God working so clearly through student connect groups, staff meetings, worship nights and youth groups. Students lead service projects and prayer groups, they invite non Christians to Friday night programmes because they are just genuinely so fun, they don’t feel a need to be one way at church and another way at school. Because they’re allowed to talk about real issues, they’re allowed to be curious and explore their youth and not be condemned as a “bad” Christian or a “badventist.” I think it’s important for everyone to visit different denominations because there is so much to learn. The Adventist church does so many things amazingly right, but we do still have so much to learn from other churches. Different doesn’t always mean wrong but you never know until you see it for yourself.
SUN BURNED NOT SUN KISSED
PROTECT YOUR SKIN - THERE’S NO BACKUP
According to The Cancer Council:
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer and UV radiation in the world.
Melanoma is the most common cancer for Australians aged - 9 years old, and 9 % of these cancers are caused by UV exposure.
Skin cancer is an almost entirely preventable disease.
Skin cancer causes almost deaths and costs the Australian healthcare system $ .7 billion each year, with hospitalisations on the rise.
Despite all this accessible health information about skin cancer prevention, sun safety, and the long-term effects of UV exposure, people are still choosing to ignore the advice and continue damaging their skin.
As someone who places great emphasis on protecting my skin, it’s both jarring and frustrating to see young people intentionally acting irresponsibly when it comes to their sun safety. Whilst I do believe everyone has the right to choose what they do with their bodies, it does baffle me that, despite having federal public health initiatives, organisations like the Cancer Council, and easy access to health education, people still choose to damage their skin for the sake of "looking tan."
We are raised in a world that views being tan as more desirable, appealing, and trendy, so much so that it has become a cultural norm to intentionally or unintentionally tan - often heavily reinforced by social media influencers and brands that young Australians engage with daily. Every summer, phrases like “I look so pale,” “I tan easily,” “I look like a ghost,” and “It’s okay if I burn; it just turns into a tan after a day or two” continue to highlight how the short-term aesthetic of being tan is prioritised over maintaining healthy skin, reflecting the larger issue of the lack of awareness and stigma surrounding sun safety.
HANNAH ROWE
The irony, of course, is that the “hard-earned” tan is basically a glowing trophy of skin damage that’ll stick with you for years –bringing along premature aging, saggy skin that lost its elasticity, wrinkles, and a leathery texture.
Growing up, my parents always emphasised the importance of protecting my skin, especially due to our family history of skin cancer. They made it clear that we should do everything we can to protect our skin because it’s not replaceable. As a kid, like most others my age, I wore a rashie, sunhat, board shorts, and lathered myself in sunscreen. However, as I got older, I started noticing that fewer and fewer kids at school continued to cover up. Meanwhile, I seemed to progress in the opposite direction, particularly in high school, where I’d sometimes feel resentful and embarrassed to wear my rashie. But, after a few bad sunburns, I very quickly learnt that I’d rather wear the rashie or sunhat and sit in the shade (things I still do) if it meant preventing the pure agony of being sunburnt and, more importantly, protecting my skin for the future.
As a nursing student, witnessing the ongoing disregard for sun safety and health is frustrating and concerning. This is especially true since learning about the long-term effects of UV exposure, such as skin cancer and other health issues, as I feel it is a missed opportunity that many don’t realise the importance of until it is too late. The reality is that I will encounter patients with skin cancer and increased sun-exposure-related conditions throughout my career. However, a key part of my role is educating people about their health, and I view sun safety and raising awareness of its long-term effects as a crucial public health issue.
Whilst sunburn results from extended UV exposure over a short period of time, the long-term effects include the development of skin cancer, premature ageing through increased wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity, cataracts and other eye damage, changes in skin pigmentation (sunspots), and a weakened immune response in the skin, making the body more susceptible to infections and cancer development.
It all begins with destigmatising and prioritising sun safety. The Cancer Council states that sun-safe practices include wearing protective clothing that covers as much of your body as possible, such as long sleeves and loose-fitting pants; applying a water-resistant SPF + broad-spectrum sunscreen before outdoor activity and reapplying every two hours; wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses; seeking shade; avoiding sun exposure during peak hours; checking the UV index before heading outside and using sun protection whenever the UV level is or above.
Facts from the Cancer Council
You can still get sunburnt on cooler or overcast days –UV radiation can be just as strong, if not stronger, than on sunny days!
Sun exposure that doesn’t cause sunburn can still damage your skin cells and increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
At least two out of three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.
This disease is almost entirely preventable!
Your skin’s got your back – make sure you’ve got its back too. Be sun-smart and protect it.
HANNAH ROWE
ORGANIC EXPRESSIONS
ANNALISE GREEN
I have always been drawn to the organic forms and colours of the natural world and often depict these elements in my art. Inspired by the feminine beauty of nature, I began my creative journey with realistic coloured pencil drawings. My first public appearance was at the Tamworth Regional Art Gallery for the ARTEXPRESS exhibition, where I showcased my Body of Work, ‘Floral Faces’
To challenge myself further and encourage boldness in my artmaking, I’ve recently experimented with and developed a new love for oil painting. While I continue to depict the familiar floral subject matter of my earlier pieces, I believe there is now a more expressive quality in my work.
As an avenue to share my passion and build my confidence as an artist, I’ve created accounts on various social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok, where people can view my latest pieces.
Monday –
I stall, feet dragging, unheard.
‘Oh, didn’t see you there’, voices pounce off the wall, as shadows move down the hallways.
Tuesday –
Front of the waiting line, but “who’s next?”
The clicking high heels sweep past. Silent stares behind me, Piercing the back of my head.
Wednesday –
Mustering strength to ask the questions. Blank faces look through me, thin as paper.
Silence –
Thursday –
“How was your week?” Their heads shift, unblinking.
“Oi, do this before you finish?”, Their voices squeeze around the corner, laughing at weekend plans.
Friday –
A car ride with teenaged boys, Drool on their screen, Swapping stares.
A girl yapping about a bikini, she’s only fifteen.
Saturday –
Feet dragging, unheard.
I collapse on the mattress, wrinkled brows, A heavy sigh, scrolling.
Sunday –
A shadow
Cocooned in blankets, Safe and waitingfor Monday.
Ghost
To be caressed by autumn air’s fresh tender kiss.
To be cocooned in the broad sun-kissed roots of a wild fig tree
To be careened by the ocean’s docile rhythmic swell.
To be clothed in the sun’s January afternoon gaze.
To be consoled by the tender company of the moon’s luminous glow.
To be cloaked in the gentle mist of weeping grey clouds.
Looking for poetry by Avondale students: Of course you are Last year, the creative writing class released “Standing Still in a Hurricane”, an anthology diving into the art of watching, waiting, and observing through the chaos of turbulent times. This collection is a blend of poems and fictional short stories, each capturing the unique creative pulse of its writer. Edited by Lynnette Lounsbury, and alumni Bailee McLeod and Ashley Jankiewicz, it’s now available in the library, waiting for you to dive in.
Jocelyn Foster
Terminal
Taylah Jones
FEATURED THEME: LIVE LOCALLY
Find your next local favourite!
7 Cafe
“Have you tried the mango smoothie yet?”
Where: University Campus
THE BITE BULLETIN
Relish Coffeehouse
Bivs Coffeehouse
Chill'd Cafe & Bar
“For those ‘everyone’s invited’ moments.”
Where: Morisset - Yambo St
Mosey Coffee Roasters
Your go-to for that 'everyone knows your name' vibe.”
Where: Morisset - Alliance Ave
Cleaver
“Indulge at your own risk - the pastry cabinets got some serious temptations.”
Where: Toronto - The Boulevarde
Table Espresso
“Brunch here once, and suddenly, it’s your personality.”
Where: Speers Point - Park Rd
The Secret Café
Vegan-friendly and serving breakfast all daythis place just gets it.”
Where: Charmhaven - Pacific Hwy
Mr. Sister Coffee
“Coffee & hot choc? Locals say it's the BEST.”
Where: Speers Point - Main Rd
The Pavement Society
“Melbourne beans. Less attitude. Just coffee and toasties that slap.”
Where: Boolaroo - Main Rd
Shakey’s Joe
“A superfood health café that fuels your body and your need to tell everyone about it”
Where: Warners Bay - King St
GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? TELL US IN THREE LINES. WHETHER IT’S A BOLD OPINION, A QUIET FEELING, OR SOMETHING THAT’LL MAKE US SMILE OR CHUCKLE - BRING IT TO LIFE IN A POEM AND WIN 1 OF 3 PRIZES.
ST PLACE A $ VISA CARD VOUCHER. ND PLACE AVONDALE TOTE OR TEE. RD PLACE AVONDALE SOCKS.
HOW TO ENTER:
. WRITE YOUR HAIKU: CAPTURE A THOUGHT, MOMENT, OR FEELING IN THE CLASSIC 5-7-5 SYLLABLE FORMAT. KEEP IT SIMPLE, MEANINGFUL, AND CREATIVE!
. SUBMIT: SEND YOUR HAIKU TO US @THEVOICEAVONDALE ON INSTAGRAM OR EMAIL US [THEVOICE@AVONDALE.EDU.AU] BY 3 PM FRIDAY, APRIL 4TH.
HAIKU CONTEST
. JUDGING: OUR PANEL, CAROLYN RICKETT AND LYNNETTE LOUNSBURY, WILL PICK THE WINNERS.
SAMARA BENTLEY
Final-year Secondary Teaching student (Biology & English) | From Brisbane | 5 months strong with Hudson
If Hudson had a catchphrase, what would it be?
Probably “off the dome” (as in ‘off the top of your head’). He tried to get it to stick, but I’ve basically only heard him say it
Which quirky habit of Husdon’s totally won you over?
Not really a big habit but more like a ritual. I found out about this habit on a road trip we went on just before we started dating. We were listening to ‘Call Me Maybe’, and during the chorus, he started rhythmically punching the roof of the car to the beat. Oh, and whenever he listens to ‘Still Into You’ by Paramore, it must be played at full volume.
A fun fact about Hudson or your relationship that people would be surprised to know is...
He’s actually really funny. You wouldn’t pick it, but it’s true.
What shared value or belief helps keep you both connected?
We face things that come up in each of our lives as a team, supporting each other through. We grow and learn in life as two separate people but also together. That way, we don’t have to face anything alone because we have each other.
If Hudson were to win an award, what would it be for?
Probably for the greatest knowledge on the Boston Celtics (at Avondale), being the biggest fan of the Boston Celtics or for being the most caring and sweetest boyfriend ever (awwww).
What do you appreciate most about how Hudson interacts with others?
Hudson is really good at connecting with people and making them feel heard. He is good at knowing when to offer advice and when to just listen. But one of the things I love most about him is that he can easily make people comfortable by having a laugh with them and making them smile.
Which admirable quality makes Hudson stand out from the crowd?
Probably how easily he makes people laugh and his nonchalant, easy going-ness.
Probably that he has a playlist called ‘White Girlies’ that we play in the car and jam to. But honestly, the fact that I know I can talk to him about anything and everything, that it’s a safe space < What is your favourite thing about Hudson?
How has your community shaped a strength you bring to your relationship?
I’m a very prudent person (I weigh up all the benefits and risks before I make a decision), which brings a useful balance to our relationship, as Hudson knows he is not exactly the most prudent person, haha. He helps me to live in the moment sometimes, which I like
If you could instantly become an expert in anything, what would you choose?
WO|M A N W O | M A N M A N
I would be an expert in becoming an expert in anything (for my indecisive nature). Actually, also an expert in how not to overthink.
HUDSON COURTNEY
nd-year Ministry & Theology student | From Melbourne (Now Watagan Park)| 5 months with Samara
If Samara had a catchphrase, what would it be?
"Wow, darl, you are so handsome and funny! I am so lucky to have you!"
Which quirky habit of Samara’s totally won you over?
The mum humour and impression.
A fun fact about Samara or your relationship that people would be surprised to know is...
I'm the one that always cooks.
What shared value or belief helps keep you both connected?
Putting God and our families first.
If Samara were to win an award, what would it be for?
Funniest boyfriend. But anything, really. She's really incredible.
What do you appreciate most about how Samara interacts with others?
How kind and caring she is for everyone in her life. She is always looking to serve and help those she cares about.
O | M A N
Which admirable quality makes Samara stand out from the crowd?
Height. She stands out from the crowd due to her height.
What is your favourite thing about Samara?
Her sense of humour and how much she cares.
M A N W
WO|How has your community shaped a strength you bring to your relationship?
Coming from a family that really eats helps me cook for her and thoroughly enjoy all her food. And my mother raising me right help me to appreciate what an incredible woman Samara is.
If you could instantly become an expert in anything, what would you choose?
Probably women's rights and feminist literature. (6' btw).
‘‘E
LELE LE TOLOA, AE MA’AU LAVA I LE VAI’
“The toloa bird flies far but will always return home.”
‘E
LELE LE TOLOA, AE MA’AU LAVA I LE VAI’
ELIHON TAULAPAPA
This Samoan proverb translates to: “The toloa bird flies far but will always return home.” While I heard this many times as a child, I couldn’t help but feel conflicted and confused. I identified as the bird, yet I didn’t want to return home. I constantly struggled with understanding: what is home?
I was born in Wellington, Aotearoa, in but migrated to Queensland, Australia, in 7 with my mum. Dad and Eddie had moved a year earlier to settle into life and establish our new beginning. My dad has always been our provider. When Mum and I arrived, our Australian dream became a reality. Mum began working at the childcare centre of the school my brother and I attended. She was immediately loved by all, earning the nickname “Miss Nana.” My parents were good; we were good—for a moment, that is.
While Mum worked a nine-to-five schedule and Dad held down consistent work, you would assume we were on par with the rest of society - comfortable enough to enjoy simple pleasures. But in fact, we were never that family, and it was amplified through small conversations and encounters at school. Constantly craving a different life, I dreamt of switching places with my friends - even just for a day - to understand what it meant to live life to the fullest.
Each time someone presented in show-and-tell, it was tied to extravagant or expensive experiences: souvenirs from overseas holidays, photos of cruise ships, and more. I longed to travel when school holidays arrived. Instead, I spent holidays rotting in the living room, watching terrible reality TV shows that I’d eventually become invested in because I had nothing else to do other than clean all day. Alternatively, I would work hard labour, tree-lopping with my dad because his workers often cancelled the night before. I spent entire days loading, off-loading, and waiting for Dad to cut down what felt like an eternity of trees.
That was my reality.
Sometimes, I wondered whether life would’ve been easier and a whole lot cheaper - had we moved back to New Zealand or Samoa. Growing up, we were never wealthy. We were comfortable for a while, but never at the level where we could enjoy luxuries like Thursday late-night shopping at Westfield Garden City or dining at restaurants. Despite my parents working so hard, it often felt like we weren’t progressing. When I was eight, my mum - who is quite conservative - threw out our Foxtel TV box. Then, when I was eleven, she disconnected our Wi-Fi. Looking back, I question whether it was due to her spiritual beliefs or the fact that we couldn’t afford those subscriptions.
I hated being financially unstable.
At school, I was known as the scab. Every break - whether recess or lunch - I would find a way into somebody’s lunch box. I never knew who my “victim” would be, but I’d always manage to find food. You could compare me to an ibis. It got to the point where my teachers noticed my struggle and offered their own lunches or went off campus to buy me food. Reflecting on this, I realise how immensely blessed I was. Despite this, I hated the title of scab - it made me feel overlooked and misunderstood. I wasn’t scabbing for fun; sometimes, there was simply no food at home to bring for lunch.
My uniform was never firsthand. I never experienced the joy of receiving a new uniform—it was always my brother’s hand-medowns. Even when he was expelled, I still wore second-hand uniforms from the uniform shop. On two occasions, I arrived at school in the wrong uniform, feeling so embarrassed that no material could cover my shame. The most vivid memory was on the first day of Year . I hadn’t realised that in senior year, the uniform colour changed from a blue-striped shirt to a white one, symbolising growth and a new beginning. I was prepared to tackle my first year of senior high school, but this oversight left me distressed and humiliated.
I knew my parents were trying, but I couldn’t help but wish they’d try harder—if only to spare my feelings. This frustration fuelled my remaining years of schooling.
My struggles weren’t limited to the lack of food or proper clothing. They extended beyond the four walls that barely kept us safe. Wearing the wrong uniform was something I could explain away: “It had a stain on it,” or “I forgot to dry it last night.”
But homelessness was something I couldn’t excuse. When Mum lost her job and Dad was injured, our money dried up. With little to no income, our “foreign dream” turned into a nightmare. EVICTED.
With just a week’s notice, we scrambled to move, throwing years of accumulated belongings into Dad’s work truck, not knowing our next step. Was this God’s vision for our family? To move to a f certainly wasn’t what Mum or Dad had envisioned.
‘E LELE LE TOLOA, AE MA’AU LAVA I LE VAI.’
I struggled to understand this proverb. Now that we were homeless, where were we supposed to return? Endlessly circling, searching for a safe landing place - a place to call home. This was our lowest point: living in a five-bedroom house shared between people. This was not the Australian dream, and it certainly wasn’t home. It took Mum and Dad about a year and a half to get back on their feet. When we were ready, we finally moved out. This drastic experience happened while I was in senior high, and I hated every minute of it.
But these experiences taught me that home isn’t found in the physical structure of a house. It’s in the comfort of those who understand your pain and hurt. For me, home was Mum and Dad, my teachers, and my friends.
While I’m still navigating life and struggling for financial stability, I finally understand the proverb’s meaning: While the toloa bird flies far, it will always return home.
ELIHON TAULAPAPA
A counselling lecturer’s review
In reading the classic Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen recently, I was struck by the similarities between 8 s counties of England and Avondale University. Not so much that a lady’s imagination quickly jumps from admiration, love and then matrimony or that a single man in possession of good fortune wants a wife - however, we do see this here.
My analysis of Pride and Prejudice is not from any expertise in literature (I will leave that to Dr Lounsbury) but the mere musings of a psychologist who enjoys observing humans and their behaviour. The romance, snippy remarks of Elizabeth Bennet, which would have been outrageous for her time, and picturesque beauty of the English countryside are appealing. However, it’s the scepticism and glass-half-empty perspective of the following quote that more naturally intrigues me and speaks to my soul.
“There are few people whom I really love, and still fewer of whom I think well. The more I see of the world, the more am I dissatisfied with it; and every day confirms my belief of the inconsistency of all human characters, and of the little dependence that can be placed on the appearance of merit or sense.”
However, just as I encourage my clients, I will instead focus on the beauty in this mess of humanity.
You have begun or are continuing an adventure through university. This is a most unique time in your life, and as someone who often forges ahead to the next thing, I thought I would provide my two cents on how to make the most of your time here at Avondale. You may encounter pressure – pressure to study, pressure to play, pressure to socialise, pressure to couple up, pressure to change, pressure to stay the same. In all of this, let the pressure mould you into the person God designed you to be.
Erik Erikson (our counselling students know all about this; just ask them) came up with a theory of development that lists stages, and at each stage, there is a conflict for us to resolve. Many of you are just coming out of adolescence, where the conflict is between creating your identity or experiencing role confusion. The next stage, early adulthood, involves a conflict between establishing intimacy and relationships with others or experiencing isolation. You are at a time in life where you will be presented with a lot of information and different perspectives; be clear for yourself what you believe, what you value, and how you want to treat others. In all of this, also be open-minded, be willing to consider the perspectives of others and do not hold so tightly to things that you cannot be corrected or change. I want to encourage you to wrestle with your identity and become confident in who you are and like who you are, as this will be a most satisfying basis for relating to others.
“Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us.”
So, looking through my leftfield therapist eyes, I wanted to offer some life lessons from Pride and Prejudice:
Do not sit around all day talking about who you will marry - that is incredibly boring and if someone wants to turn your story into a book one day, this will be difficult to read.
Learn from Mr Collins - if they said no, they meant no. They are not playing ‘hard to get’. Some of you who are related to many people may need to quickly check your family tree and ensure you are not flirting with your cousin.
Listen to Mr Darcy as he wrote, “Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.” If it does not and it is always on your mind, that is what counsellors can help you with.
Develop impeccable manners - the connections you make during this time are important both socially and professionally. Be encouraged by Elizabeth - When the time is right, may there be a stubbornness about you that can never bear to be frightened at the will of others and may your courage always rise at every attempt to intimidate you.
Bring back the art of a love letter.
YOUR BELLY BUTTON IS TECHNICALLY YOUR FIRST SCAR.
THE BRAIN NAMED ITSELF.
YOU’VE NEVER ACTUALLY SEEN YOUR OWN FACEONLY REFLECTIONS AND PICTURES.
YOUR TEETH ARE THE ONLY PART OF YOUR SKELETON THAT YOU CLEAN.
YOUR TONGUE KNOWS EXACTLY HOW EVERYTHING YOU LOOK AT WOULD FEEL.
THE WORD “bed” ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE A BED.
WHEN YOU SAY, “I’M GOING TO BED,” YOU’RE JUST ANNOUNCING YOUR NEXT TASK TO THE ROOM.
WHICH ORANGE CAME FIRST - THE COLOUR OR THE FRUIT?
AN ONION IS THE BASS PLAYER OF FOOD.
THE WAY WE TREAT MOTHS VERSUS BUTTERFLIES IS A REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE OF PRETTY PRIVILEGE.
B E S T S H O
DO YOU HAVE A THOUGHT TO MAKE EVERYONE STOP, LAUGH, OR THINK A LITTLE DEEPER?
YOU NEVER REALLY STOP CLAPPING, THERE’S JUST A LONGER GAP BETWEEN CLAPS.
W E R
HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO SHARE YOUR WEIRD, WILD, OR PROFOUND BRAINWAVES WITH YOUR FELLOW STUDENTS AND WIN A $50 VISA CARD VOUCHER.
We’re keeping it mysterious - the judges won’t be told whose thought is whose - no names, just thoughts!
Your shower thought will be judged purely on creativity, with, and how much it makes us think (or laugh). So, send in your best, and let the idea do the talking!
HOW IT WORKS
Send It In: Got a brilliant, funny, or bizarre thought? DM us @thevoiceavondale on Instagram or email us [thevoice@avondale.edu.au] by 3 PM Friday, April 4, with your shower thoughts and name. Keep it short and sweet - just one or two sentences!
We Pick Our Favourites: Our judges, your head RA’s, will sift through all the submissions and choose their favourite - whether it’s the most creative, thoughtprovoking, or down-right entertaining.
SLEEP IS JUST TIME TRAVEL TO BREAKFAST.
YOUR FUTURE SELF IS WATCHING YOU RIGHT NOW THROUGH MEMORIES.
The Showdown: We’ll showcase the top 4 submissions, and you, the students, will decide which deserves to win. Vote for the thought that made you think the most, laugh the hardest, or was totally genius.
T H O U G H T
GET POLITICAL. THE 2025 ELECTION: WHAT’S AT STAKE FOR AUSTRALIAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS?
THE ELECTION
Alright folks, the next federal election is coming in hot, and if it’s your first time voting, welcome to the chaos. Not rocking up isn’t an option unless you fancy copping a $ fine (cheers, NSW). So, you might as well get clued up and make that ballot paper count.
First, get your head around how this whole thing works. Labor (led by PM Anthony Albanese) and the Liberals (led by Peter Dutton, aligned with The Nationals) are the two major players, with The Greens, led by Adam Bandt, as the third-party option. These parties are basically playing political chess to pass laws and run the country and are only as powerful as the amount of Senators and MPs they get elected. It’s all about numbers - more seats in Parliament means more power. So, who do you wanna back? Time to do your homework.
PARTIES IN FOCUS
AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY
Political Position: Centre-left
Ideology: Social democracy, progressive policies, workers' rights.
Current Leader & Prime Minister: Anthony Albanese
Election & Influence:
One of Australia’s two major political parties, competing mainly with the Liberal-National Coalition.
Historically backed by blue-collar workers, but has expanded to include progressive and urban voters.
AUSTRALIAN GREENS
Political Position: Left-wing
Ideology: Environmentalism, progressive policies, social justice.
Current Leader: Adam Bandt
Election & Influence:
Often influence the Senate, leveraging their seats to shape policy and push progressive reforms.
Appeals to younger voters, progressives, and environmentally conscious Aussies. Often collaborates with Labor but remains independent in policy stances.
The Labor Party’s main rival, usually governing with the Nationals in the Coalition.
Appeals to business owners, conservatives, and rural/regional voters.
Has dominated Australian politics for much of its history.
Here are four of the top issues affecting University students and what the parties have promised will happen if they get into power.
. The Environment
Let’s be honest – it’s a dumpster fire out there. Is anyone in Australia planning to do anything meaningful about it?
Labor has legislated a % emissions reduction target by and net-zero emissions by . They say they will continue investment in renewable energy.
The Greens advocate for strong environmental protections, including ending native forest logging, stopping new coal and gas projects, and expanding publicly owned renewable energy. They want to phase out government subsidies for fossil fuels and invest heavily in a transition to clean energy.
The Liberals propose what they call a “balanced energy mix” that includes some renewables but also supports gas and nuclear power.
For students concerned about climate change, the Greens offer the most aggressive plan, while Labor takes a moderate approach. The Liberals focus on affordability but remain supportive of fossil fuels.
Every time you check your ATO account, your HECS debt has somehow ballooned like your Uber Eats bill. This is thanks to indexation (a sneaky way of saying "interest"), which creeps up every year you don’t pay it off. So, is anyone going to do something about student debt, or are we just stuck watching it grow like the price of concert tickets?
The Greens support wiping all student debt and making university education free.
Labor is reforming the HECS indexation system by wiping $ billion in student debt and backdating fairer indexation changes to mid- . They also offer financial support for students in essential fields like teaching, nursing, and social work through placement payments.
The Liberals have critiqued Labor’s HECS reforms as insufficient but have not proposed specific changes to HECS/HELP. Instead, they are focused on reducing the number of international students to ease pressure on housing and jobs.
Labor’s plan offers some immediate relief, while the Greens push for a radical overhaul. The Liberals have yet to outline a direct student debt policy.
. Housing Affordability
Trying to buy a house right now feels about as realistic as winning the lottery, and even locking down an affordable rental is becoming a full-time sport. So, what’s the game plan from our pollies?
The Liberals plan to unlock , new homes by funding infrastructure at development sites and freezing new construction code changes for years to reduce costs.
Labor has increased Commonwealth Rent Assistance and is investing in social and affordable housing.
The Greens propose rent caps, public housing expansion, and an end to negative gearing tax breaks for property investors. The Greens offer the most direct renter protections, Labor provides targeted financial assistance, and the Liberals focus on longterm housing supply.
. Healthcare
When was the last time you scored a bulk-billed GP appointment? And let’s be real—how often do you see a dentist, psychologist, or physio, even when you’re falling apart? Students should have access to healthcare without going broke. So, uh, is anyone planning to fix this mess, or are we just manifesting good health now?
The Greens want to expand Medicare to include dental and mental healthcare, ensuring free access to GPs and psychologists. Labor has invested $ billion to lower prescription costs, freeze PBS prices, and add new medicines to the PBS. They have promised an overhaul of women’s healthcare specifically.
The Liberals propose doubling Medicare-subsidised mental health sessions to and investing $ million in the GP workforce.
The Greens offer the most expansive plan, while Labor and the Liberals focus on specific improvements.
So, who do I vote for? Ultimately, the decision lies in which vision aligns best with your priorities - and maybe even thinking beyond yourself to those doing it tough. Don’t forget to investigate the Independent Candidates in your electorate. They might actually back your values better than the big parties and aren’t locked into voting the party line once they hit Parliament. Bottom line? Voting is your chance to have a say in how this place runs, so don’t waste it. Take it seriously and choose wisely.
SERVICE SPACE
We are all about
initiatives that serve you and your community. So, what can you do now?
Did you know hospitals across Australia need over , blood and plasma donations every single day? Despite a record-breaking . million donations in , the demand is still growing, and the Australian Red Cross urgently needs more donations to address critically low blood bank levels.
In , they need , more donors - and guess who can step up to the plate? Yep, students like you! It's quick, easy, and literally lifesaving. Plus, for every third donation, you get to pick out a gift (because who doesn't love a freebie?), and afterwards, enjoy a complimentary snack, drink, and a hit of feel-good endorphins.
Ready for a fitness challenge that makes a difference and adds to your Strava app?
Step up your fitness game this March and help fund cancer research and support services. Whether you're going solo or dragging your mates along, every step you take makes a real impact.
https://www.themarchcharge.com.au/
Did you know that in , % of menstruators struggled to afford period products in Australia? Yep, that means they were forced to choose between groceries and period products.
And here’s the kicker: more uni students improvise their period products than ever. No one wants to be the person running to the bathroom mid-lecture, scrambling for... let's call it a “creative fix.”
Share the Dignity is working to end period poverty, and you can help by donating period products at your local Woolies (look for the box near the checkout). Donate during March and August to make a difference .
No one should miss out on life because of their period.
Dog Institute
Aussies die by suicide every day, and out of are men. So, this April, why not grow a mullet? Who says you can't fight for a good cause and sport a questionable haircut at the same time? Your mullet could make a real difference by raising funds for mental health research and support.
https://www.mulletsformentalhealth.org.au/
Small acts send kindness rippling. Buying someone coffee, throwing out a compliment, or checking in on your MIA mate. On April , spread the love and tell someone you're paying it forward. Big impact, minimal effort so do it once, and hey, why not keep it going?
“We've been doing the headline scroll for you - here’s a quick rundown to keep you looped in”.
Rise, Shine, and Scroll - But Should You?
Good news, phone-first risers: your morning scroll isn’t wrecking your brain yet. Experts say it’s not the phone itself, but what you’re missing, like a walk or sunlight. So, if your morning scroll helps you feel human, go ahead - just don’t let the content stress you out. Keep it neutral, and maybe open those blinds? You might want to swap that screen time for fresh air or at least coffee, and definitely avoid negative content (looking at you, emails or doom scrolling). The real no-no? Using your phone in bed before sleep. So, in terms of tech boundaries, I’m not saying you should check your phone first thing, but hey, it’s better than before bed. Your call.
Source: SBS News “Is it harmful to look at your phone first thing in the morning?”.
is directly caused by climate change, rising global temperatures (with being the hottest year on record) are making these weird events more common. Pinning down the exact cause isn’t easy; it’s usually a messy mix of natural variability and climate change. However, scientists agree that climate change plays a bigger role in recent extremes. Until tracking improves, expect more weather chaos, so maybe keep both sunscreen and an umbrella handy.
Source: SBS News “You know about global warming, but what is 'global weirding'? Experts explain”.
Chocolate Crisis and Wallet Woes
Australia's youth homelessness crisis hits closer to home than you might think, with the Hunter Valley ranked th on the top list of hotspots. Over , young people aged - seek help annually, struggling with rising living costs, a lack of affordable housing, and domestic violence. The Department of Social Services stresses the need for long-term, coordinated action across government and housing sectors. Their spokesperson stated the government is investing $ . billion under the National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness for state and territory support, $ . million for youth homelessness prevention through the Reconnect Program, and $ billion for crisis and transitional accommodation for women, children, and youth facing homelessness.
Source: SBS News “Easter chocolate cost is expected to rise”.
IN THE
“We've been doing the headline scroll for you -
Engaged or Not, Let’s Talk Baby Names!
As love blossoms at Avondale, from O-week crushes to shiny new engagements, ensure you and your partner have passed the ultimate compatibility test - agreeing (or not) on your future kid’s name. In Australia, Oliver remains the top boys' name - years straight - while for the girls, Isla dethroned Charlotte and Amelia. Nature-inspired names are rising for girls, while timeless Christian names dominate for boys. For a little cultural flair, names like Kai, Leo, and Luka are making waves. Overall, parents are opting for short and sweet names, with girls' names often ending in ‘i,’ ‘ie,’ or ‘y,’ and shortening traditional boys’ names like Theodore to Theo.
Source: SBS News “Australia's most popular baby names have been revealed - with one emerging favourite”.
and Homelessness for state and territory support, $ . million for youth homelessness prevention through the Reconnect Program, and $ billion for crisis and transitional accommodation for women, children, and youth facing homelessness.
Source: SBS News “Australia is in a youth homelessness 'crisis'. These are the most affected areas”.
KNOW
here’s a quick rundown to keep you looped in”.
Rising Trends: What’s Shaping 2025 for Young People
Globally, % agree that was tough, but positive trends are emerging in , especially for young people. AI is transforming the workplace, boosting productivity and improving work-life balance. Accessible tech like online grocery ordering and organisational apps reduces burnout among young workers. On the climate front, % agree urgent action is needed, with many making more environmentally conscious choices and countries like Australia passing laws to tackle the damage. Gen Z is turning against social media, with % actively reducing social media usage - Australia is even banning kids under from using it. Education levels are rising, with more enrolling in postgraduate degrees, and mental health is getting the attention it deserves, with many prioritising it alongside physical health.
Source: SBS News “The trends that will make you optimistic about the future in ”.
Key Developments in the Israel-Hamas Ceasefire: As of February 18, 2025
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which began on January , is under growing strain due to President Trump's involvement. Trump has claimed credit for the deal, brokered just before his second presidential term, but his proposal to forcibly displace Palestinians (labelled ethnic cleansing by human rights groups) and claim Gaza for the U.S. threatens to unravel the peace process. Analysts warn that Trump’s focus on personal credit could jeopardise the ceasefire’s future, particularly the second phase, and contradicts the ceasefire's core objectives.
The first -day phase anticipated the release of Israeli captives and nearly , Palestinian prisoners, the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza, and the evacuation of wounded residents to Egypt. However, the second phase, intended to involve Hamas releasing remaining captives in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal, faces uncertainty. If this phase fails, the third phase, focused on a reconstruction plan under international supervision, may not proceed.
With over , Palestinians killed and more than , missing, fears of resumed hostilities rise due to Israel’s violations of the ceasefire, resulting in at least deaths, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's hardline stance on freeing captives, dismantling Hamas, and ensuring Gaza poses no threat to Israel, and Trump’s unpredictable actions.
Source : Al Jazeera “What do we know about the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal in Gaza?”.
Source : Al Jazeera & News Agencies “Hamas and Israel carry out fifth prisoner swap under Gaza ceasefire deal”.
Source : Al Jazeera “What does Trump’s ethnic cleansing proposal mean for Gaza ceasefire deal?”.
Source : Al Jazeera & News Agencies “Hamas to release six Israeli captives, hand over four bodies this week”.
Quizlet is a free platform equipped with study resources. You can test your knowledge with quizzes and games, create custom flashcards, or explore existing sets on any topic (especially helpful for those in Wellbeing… wink, wink!). Accessible via their app or website.
QUIZLET ACADEMIC
The New York Times games challenge your brain with daily puzzles such Wordle, Sudoku, and Connections! And if you want to create your own game. This could make for some interesting caf entertainment with your mates.
THE NEW YORK TIMES GAMES
Finch Habit
Tracker is an adorable little app that turns life tasks into a game. Not only does it help you stay on top of things you procrastinate, but it also gives you daily affirmations and encourages you to achieve your goals. Good news, it’s free!
FINCH
WELLBEING
Similar to Couch to 5k, Just Run allows you to just run! This app ensures you don’t push yourself too hard too fast and consistently builds up your ability to run further with fewer breaks. Grab your sneakers!
JUST RUN FITNESS
BIGVU is the ultimate iPhone app for filming presentations!
With a speedadjustable teleprompter, you can read the screen and still look at the camera as if you memorised your script like an academic weapon.
BIGVU ASSESSMENT
Strava may have been the most popular app among Avondaliens last year… It is a great way to show that you did the most exercise.
STRAVA
CHEAT
Hooked on TikToks over readings?
MemenomeLM turns PDFs into Minecraft brain rot videos. Fair warning - it’s not word-forword, so maybe don’t quote the Gen Alpha slang in your essay…
Quabble, is a peaceful game designed to promote daily mental wellness. Whether it’s journalling, gratitude practises, or improving your bedtime routine, you’ll be motivated to prioritise your mental health. I mean, who would pass up the opportunity of duck-guided Tai Chi?
QUABBLE WELLNESS
Hate the gym and its prices but want a coach? FitOn is a free app with hundreds of workouts. No equipment? Small space? Only 10 minutes? FitOn’s got you covered. Now you’ve got no excuse to be a couch potato…
FIT ON FITNESS
RaenaAi, uses an AI Tutor to transform your study notes into podcasts, games, brain rot videos, quizzes, summaries, and flashcards. The free version limits how many times you can use each feature per week. It is a more professional alternative to MemnomeLM.
RAENA AI STUDY
Bored with your friends? Play Photo Roulette! This random photo guessing game picks images from everyone’s camera roll while players guess whose they are. The winner gets the most right! Don’t worry— you can respin your selection to keep those embarrassing pics hidden.
PHOTO ROULETTE GAMES
MyBib is a free website that makes your lastminute referencing stress-free. Pick from formats including APA, Harvard, and MLA, categorise your lists, and save them as you go. Plus, enjoy a celebratory confetti party when you download your bibliography!
MY BIB REFERENCING
SEND IT
Read something that sparked your thoughts? Got something to say, a new perspective, or a fresh idea we need to hear?
VOICE is all ears (and we’re very good listeners). If you’ve got:
Creative writing (poems, short stories, epic rants)
A rights piece or social movement take
An honest opinion or a hot take
Arts, media, or photography that deserves the spotlight
The lowdown on student life - or photos with your friends
Reviews, recommendations, or straight-up critiques
Events coming up or a local business you’re loving Service opportunities or volunteer gigs
Or literally, anything you feel like throwing our way
Hit us up!
Got a hot take you want us to dive into, or a movement that should be on everyone’s radar? But no time to write it? Slide into our DMs with your ideas, and we’ll take it from there.
Got opinions but not ready to put your name on them? We get it! We’ve got limited spots for anonymous submissions. Hit us up, and we’ll work with you behind the scenes.
Got an event, gig, play, or sports game that deserves an audience? We’re here to spread the word and get the crowd hyped. Drop us the deets, and let’s make it happen!
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