Alumni Magazine Edition 2, 2011

ALUMNI MAGAZINE

EDITION 2

2011

INSIDE THIS EDITION

A Life Less Ordinary

A Change of Heart and Mind

Thinking Children

End of an Era

Confucius Centre

Focus on Faculties

Network News

ALUMNI | 02

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS AT WORK

External Relations has been very busy on a number of fronts since the last magazine.

MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR Professor Nick Saunders, the current Vice-Chancellor will be retiring in October and I am pleased there is a focus on his very important role and contribution in this edition of the Alumni Magazine.

The role of the Vice-Chancellor is to lead the University as its CEO. This University, unlike its early days, is now the size of small city with 35,000 students over five campuses, 3,000 staff, 106,000 alumni and growing - and a significant number of partnerships, research centres, controlled entities etc.

Not to mention the rapidly changing policy environments and funding arrangements of the Higher Education sector, not only in Australia but globally. You get the picture of the demands and diversity of operations I am sure!

My tenure as Chancellor has been mostly aligned to the tenure of the Vice-Chancellor.

Both of us have had a long relationship with the University. I was first a student in 1966 and eventually the first graduate to become Chancellor. Professor Saunders has spent 21 of the last 33 years at this University in different roles and with a 12 year break at other universities.

Since his arrival in 2004 as Vice-Chancellor to face some very challenging circumstances, I was very glad he was at the helm. Professor Saunders has shown himself to be an outstanding leader. He has prioritised the advancement of Teaching and Learning, Research, Indigenous Collaboration and Community Engagement. He has maintained a focus on both support and development for staff, students and alumni, and on the quality of the University’s infrastructure and governance in his time as Vice-Chancellor, and I can proudly say - a job well done!

Professor Trevor Waring AM Chancellor

Top of the list was an opportunity to catch up with alumni while I was in New York on University business recently. Over a wonderful Italian-American dinner, it was great to learn how graduate Dr Ann Gazzard from Newcastle has fared so well as an academic in education while living in the USA, and how Henry Hansch III from New Jersey was transformed by his time studying as an international student in Newcastle. He took a lot of insights and new perspectives back to his home town.

We are truly global citizens these days and Alumni Relations is keen to keep these connections alive. In October, I will be back at the University of London as a Visiting Fellow, and will join the Newcastle London Alumni ‘get-together’ on Thursday 13th October at The Green Man Pub so please come and join us!

External Relations has been on the world stage in other ways: playing a leading role at the World Association for Cooperative Learning in Philadelphia during June; meeting with 90 Vice-Chancellors in New York about online learning; and providing a profile of work-integrated learning at a world conference in Bangkok.

The University of Newcastle also played a leading role at the Australian Universities Community Engagement Alliance national conference held in Sydney this July. Our University gave the highest number of presentations at the conference and is proving itself to be a leader on how universities can engage with their various communities. This community engagement focus will be strengthened by External Relations staff working collaboratively with Faculties and other areas at our University on initiatives like the new Students in Free Enterprise program.

Rosemary and her team are doing great work and I look forward to meeting as many of you as I can and to celebrate being alumni of the University of Newcastle with you.

Professor Stephen Crump Pro Vice-Chancellor External Relations

FROM MY DESK TO YOURS Work in External Relations, and Alumni Relations in particular, is all about people.

Connecting with them and recognising the value of those people by creating opportunities for partnerships, collaboration, employment, celebration, recognition – the list goes on.

At any institution, the leader plays a key role in these types of endeavours and often success or failure depends on his/her attitude to people, and to engaging with them. I hope you will enjoy our article “End of an Era - a conversation with the Vice-Chancellor” on pages 4 and 5.

Over the five years I have been at this University, I have often asked Professor Saunders to come out at the end of a long day, or to travel to a particular event in Australia or abroad to engage with our alumni, and in doing so lose half or all of his weekend. He has willingly made himself available because of his genuine interest in our alumni community.

It is also important to acknowledge the significant contribution his wife Kath

has made. I am very grateful for their commitment to the University’s Alumni Network - it has made my work easier and more enjoyable.

Philosopher Albert Schweitzer said that “Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.” In terms of this Vice-Chancellor being keen to make this institution better and stronger, and to acknowledge its alumni and the important and valued role they have played in the institution’s history and will play in its future then his example of hard work and genuine interest in people will be left as a trail for us to follow.

Rosemary Thomson Associate Director External Relations Leading University Alumni Relations

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A LIFE LESS ORDINARY

The Braxton brothers from Home and Away.

Although he is currently playing ‘bad boy’ Darryl “Brax” Braxton in the popular television drama Home and Away, actor Stephen Peacocke is the quintessential humble country boy, grateful for what he calls the ‘blessing’ of being able to work in the field he loves.

And they did. During his time in Newcastle Stephen won a CONDA (City of Newcastle Drama Award) for his 2004 performance in Nick Enright’s A Property of the Clan under the direction of fellow alumnus Brendan O’Connell. Stephen graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts.

“Every morning I wake up to go to work and every morning it feels like I’m going on holiday. It doesn’t feel like work at all.

It’s almost criminal to get paid for it,” says Stephen.

A period of performing in co-op theatre followed, but Stephen had to supplement his income with a variety of labouring jobs. It’s this experience that he believes helped him in his profession.

It was a suggestion from his brother when Stephen was 16 that first planted the seed of ambition for an acting life. But, being on a sporting scholarship in Bathurst at a school which didn’t offer drama, Stephen had no real idea about how to realise his ambitions.

“The best advice I could give to any actor is to go work in the real world for five years. I never wanted to work in hospitality so I’ve been a labourer and just worked with knockabout blokes and down-to-earth people. It gives you a bit of humility.

The journey from Stephen’s hometown of Dubbo to the fictional world of Summer Bay - where the soapie is set - included an inspirational period at the University of Newcastle as a communications student where he found a mentor and role model in drama lecturer Glenn Hazeldine.

“One thing you do notice is young people who get onto a show like Home and Away don’t realise how good they’ve got it. I had to get up at 5am and get in the water this week when it was freezing cold, but that’s nothing compared to getting up at 5am and riding out to Botany to unload a shipping container full of prawns for $30 an hour. You’re fortunate if you’ve lived a bit before you get a ‘break’ like this because you realise how much of a blessing it is.”

“I was directionless,” he says. “Mum and Dad weren’t ever pushy but they did think it was a good idea to go to uni if you could.

Communications was media related and you could take drama as a course on the side. I didn’t ever really want to get into journalism but I thought that once I was at uni things might start happening.”

In many ways Stephen’s current job is like an apprenticeship. “I don’t think there would be a better way to learn. I normally pride myself on being relaxed, but for the first six weeks I

was so nervous. You’re hitting marks, or you move your head an inch to one side and you block the other person’s shot. I had to learn all these things.

“On a show like Home and Away you get hours and hours and hours in front of a camera every day and you’ve got to learn to pick things up on the run. I’ve been a labourer, I’ve done a million different jobs, but I’ve never been to a place where everyone’s happy to be there and everyone’s giving everything they’ve got. No-one takes it easy. Everyone appreciates the writers and the directors and everyone’s doing their best and it really makes you work hard every day.”

Stephen also uses his real life experience to inform the characters he plays, which has been useful for his current role - a character many have likened to one of Sydney’s notorious ‘Bra Boys’.

“To find inspiration for the roles you play you just look at what’s at the core of someone. I was brought up in a fairly conservative family and I was always taught that what this guy (his character) does for a living is wrong. But he wants to make something of himself. That was like me. I wanted to do something that wasn’t ordinary.”

Images courtesy of Channel Seven.

ALUMNI | 04

END OF AN ERA A CONVERSATION WITH THE VICE-CHANCELLOR His retirement may well be just around the corner, but there is no sign that the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders, is slowing the cracking pace he’s maintained for the past seven years. Here he takes some time out to talk to Alumni Magazine to reflect on his time as VC and ponder the future – both his own and the Universitys.

On leaving the University It goes without saying that I love this University. I have spent 21 of the last 33 years of my professional life working here across two parts. For about 12 years I was away at Flinders and Monash before returning to take up the position of Vice-Chancellor. I have many dear friends and really good colleagues here, as well as very happy memories. It will be sad to walk away from that.

I have had a very full and immensely rewarding career, and I am looking forward to retirement. Spending time with my wife, Kath, and our family will be priority number 1. Of course it will be great to play some golf, garden, read – things I’ve always loved to do but I simply haven’t had the time over the past seven years.

So it is with mixed feelings that I approach retiring from the University.

On the University’s future This is a terrific time to be part of the University. There is so much opportunity here, and I really think Newcastle is poised to take its next big step. In the mix are significant challenges that all universities are facing: current funding levels per student place are not adequate, the sector’s infrastructure needs significant upgrading, attracting and retaining quality staff is a pressing issue, and domestic and international marketplaces are increasingly competitive.

In research, we hold our head high amongst the best universities in the country, and I think everyone in Newcastle is rightly proud of our track record. Again there are challenges. Some parts of government

Photo courtesy Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, The University of Newcastle

and the sector believe that research funding should be increasingly concentrated and directed towards fewer and fewer institutions. So it is an incredibly competitive environment that we operate in to obtain funds. On top of that, those universities that sit outside a capital city wear many hats and we have to balance important obligations to our students and communities, while continuing to make our mark in research on a global scale.

Our University has an enormously promising future, but there are significant challenges ahead.

On his early days as Vice-Chancellor People may be surprised to hear that one of my biggest challenges in this role was learning how to be a VC! Immediately prior to returning to Newcastle, I had been Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at Monash University. It had an operating budget of approximately $180 million, so in some ways this position was not unlike being the VC of a small university. But as a dean, you can bat it up the line if you have a really difficult or challenging problem to solve.

Whereas when you are the VC, the buck stops with you. It took a little while to become comfortable with being the chief executive.

When I took up the position, the University was facing one of its most difficult times. Financially, we were heading in the wrong direction.

It was an incredibly challenging time for the University and for me personally. A lot of really good people with long associations with the University had to leave. And at the same time, while we were sadly saying goodbye to many, we had to keep an eye on the future and to

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keep people looking ahead. It was hard and we did it thanks to the dedication and hard work of all the staff. We maintained our standing in the top 10 universities for research; we have rebuilt our community links; and financially we are in a much stronger position. Our Aa2 credit rating from Moodys is testament to the strength of our current financial standing.

On the big wins The achievements of the past seven years have been built on the achievements of the past 40 - I think that’s really important to recognise. The wins for the University have been delivered through the achievements of our staff, students and alumni. I think the way we have been able to better focus on the student as the centre of our attention is a good achievement. We still have work to do but it is important that people are realising that if we didn’t have students to teach and to supervise in their research, we would not have a university.

Staff morale and engagement has improved greatly. There are still many things that staff would like to see being done, and there are many things that I would like to see us do. But I think within the resources that are available to us, staff satisfaction and engagement has certainly improved.

The creation of Priority Research Centres and providing targeted support for them and early career researchers has paid dividends.

Through concentrated resourcing, we have seen the emergence of new strands of excellence in the humanities and social sciences.

Humanities and social sciences in this University can sometimes sit in the shadow of engineering, health and the science and technology achievements. But our social science, humanities and arts research programs are excellent, and that is starting to be recognised. Business and law has also made great headway in the past five years building an enviable reputation in research and for excellence in teaching.

Our community engagement is another important area. It’s not easy for universities to engage with their communities. It may be easier for Newcastle than the University of Sydney or UNSW - but for us being engaged with the community is really important and I am heartened at how much increased interest there has been from the Central Coast and Hunter communities in the University.

And then there are wins that are really good fun – the Chamber Choir winning the Battle of the Choirs and the World Choir Games in China, the NUbots taking out the World Cup, alumnus Heath Francis winning gold at the Paralympics in Beijing, our students’ great performance in the Walleroos. The diverse achievements of the University and sharing in the successes of our staff, students and alumni have made my job very rewarding.

On the city of Newcastle Newcastle is changing. Much of the growth in jobs and employment in Newcastle has been around the services sector. Mining, the port, manufacturing continue to be important. However service-oriented areas such as health, education and welfare also continue to grow

and these services need high quality, knowledgeable, skilled people.

The University has an important role in working with all industries to ensure that our graduates are provided with the relevant education and skills for current and future roles.

Compared to NSW and Australia, our community is significantly underrepresented in people going onto higher education. The University’s relationships with TAFE and schools are important in turning this situation around. Our University has double the proportion of students from low socio economic backgrounds than the rest of the sector. We enrol more Indigenous students and employ more Indigenous staff than any other university in Australia. We can be very proud of our achievements, which reflect efforts over many years - not just in my time - and a genuine commitment to helping our communities access higher education.

We are providing the knowledge workers of the future. It is very important that we do that well and that we produce graduates who are valued and have strong generic skills, as well as good knowledge of their discipline. That way, of course, the economy will grow, the social structure of the community will be strengthened, and the community will be a good place to live and work.

There is an important role for the University in the revitalisation of the Newcastle CBD by establishing a campus in the city. It will be a challenge to get it over the line but I think it will provide great benefit to the University and to Newcastle. It will bring 4,500 students and staff into the city centre every day. The flow on for business and the community is obvious. The idea has a lot of support politically – from all spheres of government – and significant support from the community. But it will not happen without funding. So we still have a way to go to make that a reality.

On the alumni community Spending time with our alumni is so inspiring. Graduation is my favourite day in the academic year. They are occasions filled with such joy, and there is so much energy and good feeling coming from families and friends.

I am thrilled with the increase in alumni engagement over the past seven years. We still have a lot to do but through our chapters in Australia and overseas our alumni are re-establishing their connection with the University community. We are very fortunate to have so many distinguished alumni - high court judges, members of parliament, business leaders, and others who are leaders in their profession. We also have countless quiet achievers – the University is proud of the achievements of every one of our alumni. Our alumni community is testimony that this is a great university.

It has been a privilege to have served as Vice-Chancellor. I look forward to watching the University and its alumni go from strength to strength.

ALUMNI | 06

A CHANGE OF HEART AND MIND University of Newcastle honorary degree recipient, Dr Jeff McMullen AM writes on the possibilities of constitutional change to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The most important word missing from the Australian Constitution is ‘Custodianship’. It is a word of strength and beauty that can unify us and bind us to the ideal of what it means to be Australian.

Custodianship is a central concept of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge and gives everyone who lives in this land a responsibility to contribute to the balance of life. Custodians will look after this land and its people for countless generations to come.

This valuing of all life connects past, present and future. It unifies the descendants of the world’s oldest continuous cultures with the newer arrivals from more than 230 other places. The land owns us all.

Australia is our home.

This is Indigenous knowledge. If we imbue this wisdom in the Referendum question now being shaped by the Government’s Expert Panel and ultimately in the changes to the document that guides our nation, we will offer respect and recognition to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Instead of mere words, built on English Common Law concepts, we will embrace as a nation an intellectual concept that is infused with meaning for all who live here. Our foundation stone is then uniquely Australian.

Our new Constitution might begin… Australia is a nation founded on Custodianship. All of the people of this land are equal and free.

This is a vision of a greater sense of nationhood because Custodianship is based on the common good, genuine equality and responsibility.

While Custodianship is not one of the seven ideas offered to us by the Expert Panel on Constitutional Recognition of Indigenous Australians, some of its members and the Australian Government have encouraged me to share this idea. I deeply believe that it best expresses what the Old People tell me as I listen carefully to those I respect around this country. So many times the elders have heard promises and even been moved by the sincere words of the National Apology. But very little has changed.

To close that space between us it is more than mere words and legal concepts these wise elders are seeking. For each one of us the recognition must be written in the head and the heart in a form that implicitly conveys the truth that this is an Aboriginal land.

Another line in the Constitution might be…The First People of this nation are our Traditional Owners connected by language and culture to their ancient country.

The Expert Panel has been charged with a daunting task - knowing that there is precious little time to overcome the ignorance, racism, doubts and divisions that threaten any chance of a meaningful 21st Century Constitution.

By next December the Government wants a clear idea of what should be put to the people.

Some opinion polling indicates that many Australians are resistant to the idea of “special” rights or recognition for Indigenous people. How could you frame a “yes or no” Referendum question that overcomes such a difficulty? The Expert Panel states in its guiding principles that any proposal for constitutional recognition “must contribute to a more unified and reconciled nation…be of benefit to, and accord with, the wishes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples…be capable of being supported by an overwhelming majority of Australians…and be technically and legally sound.”

I am suggesting that Custodianship is the word and the concept that rises above these difficulties.

While some Australians might resist “special” or “exceptional” rights or recognition, they may well respect and recognise a value that embraces our mutual love for this land and its people while at the same time clearly acknowledging that Custodianship is a gift to us all from Indigenous people and their knowledge system.

To make the Constitution ‘Australian’ it must have more than legal concepts. It must have an Australian essence and relevance.

Custodianship introduces the mutual values by which we define ourselves today.

Our Constitution for the 21st Century must celebrate the equality of women and men and the rights of children, declaring that all of our citizens are equal.

A new guarantee should be inserted to ensure, for the first time in our history, that no one will be discriminated against on the basis of

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age, gender, race, religion or culture. By stating this in explicit terms we would offer Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people the strongest guarantee against the discrimination that they have endured for more than two centuries.

The existing race powers (Section 51(xxvi)) and (Section 25) certainly should be repealed because they carry the stain of racism and discrimination.

The legacy of the White Australia Policy, delusions of racial superiority and misguided attempts to allow the states to exclude some races from voting, surely have no place in our modern nation.

Governments must be blocked from passing laws, like the Northern Territory Emergency Response Act, that purport to benefit Indigenous people but in the eyes of many, blatantly discriminate.

Unequivocal opposition to discrimination and removal of the race powers from the Constitution would end the existing “exceptional” provisions aimed at Indigenous Australians.

A new provision could be developed in the Constitution allowing the Australian Government to negotiate with Indigenous people compacts for the development and protection of their lands, languages, cultural practices and systems of knowledge.

If we have shattered the lie of Terra Nullius and our High Court continues to wrestle with the challenges of Native Title, our Constitution could afford a measure of historic justice by guaranteeing the First Australians just compensation for the wealth being extracted from their lands.

GRADUATES AND STAFF SHINE IN 2011 QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS RAYMOND LAIRD (Master of Arts 1991) was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to the study of theology. Mr Laird has had a long and distinguished career teaching theology and church history at various Australian universities and colleges.

COLLEEN POTTS (Bachelor of Education 1986) was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to the performing arts in the Hunter Region. Ms Potts was a science teacher at the Hunter School of Performing Arts, established its Community Choir and maintains her connection with the school as the coordinator of the Community Christmas Concert.

RICHARD DELBRIDGE (Bachelor of Science 1960) was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to the community of Lake Macquarie.

PROFESSOR MAREE GLEESON (Doctor of Philosophy 1988), Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her work in medicine and education. Professor Gleeson has held various positions at the University of Newcastle since 1989.

EMERITUS PROFESSOR JOHN BURROWS was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to education in the fields of computational stylistics and English literature, and for his contribution as an academic and as a researcher. Professor Burrows taught English Literature and held a number of positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Head of School for English at the University of Newcastle before retiring in 2000.

PROFESSOR RICHARD LEPLASTRIER was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for his distinguished service to architecture, and his contribution as an educator and mentor. He is a Conjoint Professor in the School of Architecture and Built Environment at the University. Professor Richard Leplastrier has been an architect since 1963 and assisted in the design of the Sydney Opera House and was co-designer of the University’s Birabahn Aboriginal Centre.

The University of Newcastle is proud to congratulate these alumni.

Think deeply about Custodianship.

Choosing the right ideas and inspired words will be crucial if we are to go forward together.

Alumnus Dr Jeff McMullen AM is a journalist, author and film-maker.

A foreign correspondent with ABC for 20 years, many will remember him from his days as a reporter for television programs Four Corners and 60 Minutes. He is now the CEO (Honorary) of Ian Thorpe’s ‘Fountain for Youth’ - building education in 22 remote communities. Some of the children who have benefited from its Literacy Backpack Project are pictured left.

Dr McMullen was recognised by the University of Newcastle in 2009 with a Doctor of Letters honoris causa.

FAREWELL TO ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S GREATS University of Newcastle honorary degree recipient, Dr Margaret Olley (Doctor of Fine Art honoris causa 2006), one of Australia’s best known painters died this July at the age of 88. She had just finished working on her upcoming September exhibition, and what will now be her final, for the Philip Bacon Gallery in Brisbane.

Dr Olley, a still-life artist, was awarded the nation’s highest honour, the Companion of the Order of Australia in 2006, and has been an active supporter of young artists and the Newcastle Region gallery.

ALUMNI | 08

GRADUATION GLIMPSES

FAMILY TRADITION

ON A MISSION

Dr Alison Convery (nee McLeod) graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (French) Honours and a University Medal in 1977, and went on to complete a Master of Arts (1980) and her PhD this year.

Alison was taught by Col Whitehead – remembered for his sporting prowess as much as his French teaching, and supervised by Emeritus Professor Ken Dutton – two names many graduates will remember well.

United Nations Security Officer Mr Edward Lutta set foot on a University of Newcastle campus for the first time to attend his graduation, at the Callaghan campus in April. Edward had studied his Master of Aviation Management online through GradSchool.com.au and thoroughly enjoyed both his graduation visit and his online study experience.

Back in 1977 when Alison received her medal, her son Sam Convery was not even on the horizon. She could not have envisioned sitting watching him 33 years later in April 2011, receive his Bachelor of Engineering degree and start a generational tradition of receiving a University Medal! Mother and son are pictured here with medals proudly on show.

GRADUATION DATES

A Kenyan, Edward served in the Kenyan Army as both a Helicopter Pilot and Aircraft Captain for 16 years before joining the United Nations in 2005. He served on his first mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea before his current appointment to the Timore-Leste mission this year.

• Callaghan ~ 6-7 October

• Singapore ~ 19 November • Hong Kong ~ 22 November

GRADLINK - GET CONNECTED, STAY CONNECTED Update your contact details online

www.newcastle.edu.au/gradlink

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CONFUCIUS CENTRE OPENS DOORS China and Australia strengthened valued ties on Wednesday 11 May 2011 with the official opening of a Confucius Institute at the University of Newcastle - appointed by the Chinese Ministry of Education it is the only Confucius Institute in Australia outside a capital city.

“We are extremely grateful to the Australian Chinese State Councillor, Ms Liu Yandong and the former Prime Minister of Australia, the Honourable Mr Kevin Rudd, whose full support contributed enormously to the success of our bid.

Dignitaries gathered to celebrate the opening, and a feature was the statue of Confucius donated by The Australian Confucius Research Society. Kong He, a student at the University of Newcastle and a member of the 76th generation of Confucius, was proud to attend the opening and spoke as a representative of the family.

I hope that from today our Confucius Institute will become a regional centre of excellence that, not only promotes Chinese culture and language, but also forges greater understanding and deeper appreciation of China – strengthening our bond with our good friends in China,” he said.

The University of Newcastle has established strong collaborative relationships with the Ministry of Education, P.R. China represented

by Consul-General Professor Bai Gang, and with its institutions such as Hanban, the China Scholarship Council and the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange.

The inaugural Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Newcastle Mr Rhys Palmer, is also an alumnus of the University.

Huazhong Normal University has appointed Associate Professor Jonathon Li as the Chinese Deputy Director.

Professor Nicholas Saunders, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Newcastle said it was a privilege to establish the Confucius Institute in partnership with Huazhong Normal University, represented at the opening by Vice-President, Professor Li Xiangnong.

The two institutions share a long and established relationship, particularly in the areas of teaching and research.

Unveiling the plaque: Professor Li Xiangnong, Vice-President (International), Huazhong Normal University (left); Professor Nicholas Saunders, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Newcastle (centre); and Professor Bai Gang, Education Group, Consulate General of P.R. China in Sydney.

The establishment of Confucius Institutes by the Chinese Government provides opportunity for people all over the world to learn about Chinese language and culture. There are now 322 Confucius Institutes established in 96 countries around the world.

www.newcastle.edu.au/confucius-institute

A statue of Confucius, donated by The Australian Confucius Research Society, takes pride of place in front of the new Institute.

2011 AUSTRALIA CHINA ALUMNI AWARDS Nominations open now After the success of our alumni at the 2010 ACAA awards, the University of Newcastle would be proud to nominate outstanding alumni who are based in China for this year’s awards.

Email your CV today: alumni@newcastle.edu.au Nominations close 30 August 2011.

AWARD CATEGORIES • Alumni of the Year • Young Australia China Alumni of the Year Award • AusAID Scholarships Australia China Alumni of the Year • Award for Entrepreneurship • Award for Banking and Finance • Award for Research and Innovation

For more information, or to download a Nomination Form visit: www.newcastle.edu.au/alumni/awards/china.html

• Award for Corporate Achievement • Award for Women in Leadership • Award for ICT and New Media

ALUMNI | 10

THINKING CHILDREN – THE WAY TO A DECENT DEMOCRACY? Written by graduate Dr Ann Gazzard Matthew Lipman inspired the world of educators with his ‘Philosophy for Children’ program. The program was created primarily to help children learn and value thinking for themselves so that, apart from enriching their own lives with more meaning, they could participate more fully and responsibly in a democratic society. Since its beginning in the late 1970’s, ‘Philosophy for Children’ has been embraced by many countries worldwide, not least of which is Australia, and it has been translated into thirteen languages.

Philosophy in the Classroom, Lipman’s first book, impacted me greatly, so much so that it changed the course of my life and postgraduate studies.

In 1980, I took a one year leave of absence from my doctoral studies to research children’s thinking further and completed a Master of Arts in Critical and Creative Thinking at the University of Massachusetts.

‘Philosophy for Children’ continued to stand out as the stellar program.

Upon invitation from Matthew Lipman to work at his Institute at Montclair State University in New Jersey, I returned to the US in 1985.

During my many years at the Institute for the Advancement of Philosophy for Children, I trained teachers around the US in ‘Philosophy for Children’, wrote curriculum and supervised research.

It was thrilling and a very great honor to be so privileged to do this work. Converting classrooms into dialogical communities of inquiry, no matter what the subject of study, is therefore the legacy I feel compelled to bring to all of my teaching and have done so for the past fifteen years at Wagner College. I believe that the more we open our minds to learning from each other - teachers, students and peers alike - then the more chance we have of developing the complexity of mind appropriate to functioning in the modern world.

Unlike Australia, the US does not have compulsory voting and holds a very poor track record of voter turnout. In recent elections for example, only 50% of the registered voters voted and the registered voters are only 50% of the population. Insofar as a functioning democracy needs a participatory citizenry, it becomes more and more urgent that educators at all levels increase awareness of civic responsibility and provide our students with the tools capable of transforming them into transformative citizens.

Consequently, I attempted to bridge the gap between thinking within the walls of academia and thinking in the so-called ‘real world’. My freshman students attended a number of philosophical discussions

DR ANN GAZZARD Doctor of Philosophy (Education) 1987 Graduate Diploma in Education 1980 Bachelor of Science 1979 Ann is an Associate Professor of Education at Wagner College in New York, US. She is an expert in the philosophy of education, with research interests in philosophical thinking and the development of intelligence. with community members from Princeton NJ, in the format of a philosophy café.

I had begun this café in March 2008 as a means of providing a public forum for local community members to come together to discuss and inquire into matters of importance to them. The Café, modeled on the methodology of ‘Philosophy for Children’, has been meeting once a month in a local bistro. It attracts people from a variety of walks of life including lawyers, scientists, artists, academics, teachers, clockmakers and bankers, all of whom participated eagerly with the college freshman when they attended.

The students welcome hearing and challenging the views of the professionals and both groups express gratitude in being able to interact and come to understand and appreciate each others’ perspectives more fully. The freshmen enjoyed this experience so much that they created a new student club on Wagner College campus called “The Philosophy Café”.

If it is true that the ability to detect fallacy is what makes democratic life decent, then we owe it to our students to offer them the gifts of reason and ethics. Learning to engage in philosophic inquiry is a fine place to begin.

The Wagner College campus student club called “The Philosophy Café”.

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INDUSTRY SCHOLAR AT WORK Working with remote communities to support the provision of basic needs such as safe water and sanitation education has proved to be a rewarding experience for Matthew Oliver, a civil and environmental engineering graduate (2009).

Matthew was inspired to work in this field after attending an ‘Engineers Without Borders’ conference as an undergraduate where he gained an insight into the issues facing third world countries which ignited his passion to give something back.

During 2010-2011 Matthew lived and worked in Papua New Guinea through the Australia Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) program. While there, his team consulted local village chiefs, discussed future projects, and ran monitoring and evaluation of other previously installed projects. Rainwater catchment and wells were also installed, typically at sites where gravity systems were not feasible.

Prior to taking on this role Matthew had received 12 months experience in Australia under the University of Newcastle Industry Scholarship Scheme (UNISS), now called Industry Scholarships (IS) - something which Matthew believes was immensely beneficial. “It put me in an excellent position to both secure a job straight after graduating and to apply for the Australia Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) program.”

Not only was the project incredibly successful in providing positive change for the remote communities of Milne Bay, but it also provided Matthew with unique memories. He recalls returning to the village each day after his work up the mountain, “The women would have prepared a meal for all of the team. Fresh organic pineapple, fresh fish, chicken, taro, scones and tea (5 sugars minimum) as a standard meal. Sitting eating with the local elders and community leaders amongst a backdrop of swaying coconut trees and crystal blue waters is a far cry from the dark suits and white offices of Australian design consultancies.”

Even though Matt was constantly thanked by the local communities for his work, he feels his time there was more rewarding for himself. He was able to share his skills, but believes he learnt more than he taught.

“Programs such as the AYAD have such potential to build capacity of local grass-root organisations already engaged with these remote third world places. This concept of capacity building has great potential for creating avenues for real empowerment and change. I see this process of c apacity building i mmensely r ewarding f or al l par ties involved.” www.newcastle.edu.au/industry-scholarships

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FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND LAW COLLABORATIONS STRENGTHEN SINO-AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS RESEARCH The Faculty of Business and Law at the University of Newcastle Australia continued to build their strong collaborative research activity in China when Professor Stephen Nicholas, Faculty Pro ViceChancellor, led a team of eight researchers to present papers at two important research events in June.

The “New Frontiers in Business Research” workshop showcased the cutting edge business research by Newcastle Business School academics in discussions with their counterparts at South China University of Technology. The Faculty was instrumental in establishing the Sino-Australian Research Centre, an important collaboration between the University of Newcastle and South China University of Technology, housing the Sino-Australia Business Research Centre which collaborates with external private, Government and nongovernmental sponsors to support research and teaching.

Professor Nicholas also signed an undergraduate articulation agreement, where South China University of Technology students who complete two years of study in China can complete a University of Newcastle Business or Commerce degree after a further two years of study at Newcastle.

While in China, the academics also attended the Faculty co-sponsored seventh international symposium on ‘Multinational Business Management - Enterprise Management in a Transitional Economy and Post Financial Crisis’ exploring issues associated with business enterprise in emerging economies. It was held at Nanjing University School of Business (one of China’s top 10 business schools), where the Faculty has built strong research and teaching collaboration over the past five years.

Professor Nicholas commented that, “While the presentations themselves were well received, it was the less formal process of sharing research ideas as a foundation for developing collaborative research projects with colleagues at our partner universities that was equally valuable.”

Both the formal and informal networking cements the close research collaboration with these two leading universities in China, placing the University of Newcastle Faculty of Business and Law at the centre of business research in China.

SEARCHING FOR SUPERVISION EXCELLENCE Was your Research Supervisor outstanding in their role as a mentor?

Did they provide you with exceptional guidance, advice and support during your candidature?

The Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Supervision Excellence provides an opportunity to recognise your supervisor’s achievements and thank them for their efforts.

Nominations close 16 September.

For more info: www.newcastle.edu.au/students/research-higher-degree/supervision/vc-awards.html

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KRISTEN KEEGAN

GLENN PLATT

Graduate Diploma in Industrial Relations 1997 Bachelor of Law and Administration 1993

Master of Business Administration 2010 Doctor of Philosophy 2005 Bachelor of Engineering 2000

Shaking the hand of Elizabeth Evatt, Chancellor of the University of Newcastle (1988-1994) was a defining moment for Kristen Keegan. “Seeing her as a woman in such a leadership role was amazing.”

Now the first female CEO of the Hunter Business Chamber, Kristen is also a woman in a significant leadership position. But she says her gender has no bearing on the way she carries out her job. “There have been no challenges in this position in terms of me being female, because people knew who I was and how I operate. I’m relatively plain speaking, open and honest.”

In her role, Kristen represents around a thousand businesses in the Hunter region - from the very small to the very large.

“As a representative organisation our members needs and their businesses are always number one, so we work on the things that we can do to help their businesses prosper.”

A large part of this work involves looking at the region itself.

“The Hunter region, as a whole, is one of the most amazing regions in this country. We are right at the top in terms of being a diverse industry and a resilient economy. We are operating off the back foot in terms of having a very shabby infrastructure base. There’s a lot of lobbying that we are doing, and have to do, to ensure that, first of all we have the right infrastructure plans, and we start to see some action in that regard,” said Kristen.

Kristen sees the establishment of transport infrastructure as being crucial to the future of the region - both public transport infrastructure and road infrastructure. “The urban renewal of the Newcastle city centre is something I’ve been working on for the last six years and that’s something I’m not letting go of in a hurry.”

“We want to see a vibrant active city. I would like to see other heritage buildings reused. If we don’t re-use them they get stranded and start to crumble and fall apart. I’d also like to see a really strong commercial hub and some aspirations in terms of being a world exemplar for art and sculpture to bring people back into the city and bring it to life. There’s so much potential and everybody sees that potential. It’s just having the internal fortitude to do it.”

As an energy expert at the CSIRO, Dr Glenn Platt is at the forefront of an increasingly crucial field of research. Under his direction, Glenn’s team is delivering world-leading science around ways to use energy more efficiently, as well as developing new technologies for improving how energy is used in buildings and delivered by the electricity network.

“My team does everything from how to use less energy in our buildings, to how to run our electricity networks, through to how many people might buy electric vehicles and what impact they would have and then on to things such as how to design new types of air conditioning systems.”

After working for Nokia in Denmark in mobile communications, Glenn returned home to finish his doctorate. At the time the CSIRO was starting a new site in Newcastle. “They had science teams working on new types of solar cells. They were interested in putting a new team together that would focus on what you could call ‘energy management’. That was a nice combination of my expertise in industrial control and mobile phones. We would be controlling devices such as air conditioners or electricity networks but we also had to share finite resources. My PhD was about how do we actually share the radio resources. How do we share energy? CSIRO hired me and we’ve gone from strength to strength.”

Newcastle is a base for impressive clean energy projects and initiatives such as the $100 million Smart Grid Smart City project. This project, says Glenn, is the largest of its kind globally, and will bring experts in this area from around the world, who will focus on what’s happening in Newcastle.

Glenn says, “There’s some fantastic work happening right now in the area of sustainable energy with the research the University of Newcastle is doing, as well as the CSIRO. The local government in Newcastle is also doing some fantastic work and is very ambitious. We have lots of reasons that we need to try and change our economy. I really look forward to Newcastle being the centre of Australia for best practice energy work in the future. It’s a genuine possibility as there’s a fairly unique mixture of people and skills in Newcastle and a real appetite to work out what else can we do, apart from digging coal out of the ground.”

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FACULTY OF EDUCATION AND ARTS YOUNG HISTORIAN MAKING HIS MARK

Dr Michael Ondaatje is an engaging awarding-winning researcher and teacher who has lectured in American history at the University of Newcastle since January 2008 when he arrived from his hometown of Perth, Western Australia.

He is a mad keen sports fan (cricket, Australian rules, rugby union, but definitely NOT rugby league) and he loves music: jazz, blues, opera, classical, even a bit of country!

Maybe it is the blues and jazz that got him hooked in American history – but regardless of his initial enticement to the discipline – he is certainly making his mark.

Since being at the University he has written a book - Black Conservative Intellectuals in Modern America (University of Pennsylvania Press) - which has become a Top 20 international bestseller in the US history category, and has been the recipient of

numerous prizes for teaching excellence at the faculty, university and national level.

His most recent awards include a Faculty of Education and Arts Award for Teaching Excellence (2009), the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence (2010), an ALTC Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning (2010) and an ALTC Award for Teaching Excellence (2011).

A regular commentator on American history and politics for ABC radio, Dr Ondaatje has recently returned from the Rothermere American Institute at Oxford University, where he held a Senior Visiting Fellowship while working on his latest book project: a biography of the nineteenth century African American leader William H. Councill. Another book on black social and political thought is due to be published by the University Press of Mississippi in 2012, when Dr Ondaatje

“It was while studying communications that I really decided my first love was film and that my talents lay in producing.”

In her first year out of university, Victoria managed to secure a job as a production assistant at what was then one of Australia’s largest commercial production houses with offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Hong Kong and Los Angeles.

VICTORIA CONNERS-BELL Bachelor of Arts 1993 Having worked in production on hundreds of television commercials, documentaries and short films, Victoria Conners-Bell is living the life many undergraduate communications students dream of - and loving it!

“I had a love of film and photography from a very early age. I was always intensely interested in how watching a film or viewing a photograph could make you feel.

Since then she has worked across a diverse range of productions, including Signs, one of the most watched short films on YouTube.

She recently line-produced the feature film Red Hill starring Australian actor Ryan Kwanten of True Blood fame.

“This was filmed in the high country of Victoria - a five hour drive from Melbourne in the middle of winter. It tested not only my production skills but also my patience.”

In 2004 Victoria started her own production company - PVC Live. PVC Live produced

will be a Visiting Scholar at The Boisi Center for American Religion and Public Life at Boston College. This semester Dr Ondaatje is teaching his favourite course, The African American Experience from Martin Luther King to Barack Obama, and enjoying reconnecting with students after his recent study leave.

“There are so many things, really, that I love about teaching - but if I had to say one, it would probably be the interaction and engagement with students in tutorials. I love watching students taking control of a subject and making it their own. Their passion and idealism inspire me every day,” he says.

With the number of teaching prizes already received as an early career academic, it would seem we can assume that the students are also inspired by Dr Ondaatje’s passion and idealism!

the ARIA-winning Best Live DVD Across the Great Divide for Silverchair and Powderfinger as well as DVDs for Henry Rollins, The Veronicas and P!nk’s Funhouse Tour.

Earlier this year Victoria became the Executive Producer of Airbag Productions.

“It’s a fantastic role managing productions across a range of platforms and with a large post production component.

“There are so many things I love about this industry, most importantly the creativity and collaboration. Most people who gravitate towards it have a real love of the craft and it’s great to be able to work every day with people who truly care about their work. It’s also given me amazing opportunities to travel widely throughout Australia and the world. I am grateful for the fantastic theoretical base from my communications degree. I would never have guessed how often I would think about semiotic theory.”

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ALEXANDRIA BERNARD

ANYA LOUISE SMITH

Bachelor of Arts 1993

Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Arts 2010

Working in an industry where there is an abundance of ‘colourful characters’, it could be fair to say that journalist and broadcast presenter, Alexandria Bernard was prepared for her future professional life by her encounters with similar personalities during her time at the University of Newcastle.

Securing a permanent, full-time teaching position in the first year out of university is no small achievement, but it was a reality for Anya Louise Smith. Just five days after her interview with the Department of Education in January of this year, Anya received an offer to teach at a Sydney high school.

“On my first day at University, I saw Professor Godfrey Tanner riding his bike through the Union building with his academic gown billowing out behind him. The years have not erased this image from my mind,” says Alexandria.

“I expected at least one year of casual work before I found more permanent employment. Yet here I am, a high school teacher with a permanent appointment. It has been a whirlwind, every day full of new learning and challenges since that phone call that changed my life. For six years I worked hard to achieve my dream, and as soon as I completed my studies my future found me and fate intervened, sending me in the right direction.”

It may be Alexandria’s writer’s mind which imbues her recollections of University life with this sometimes humorous sense of place.

After starting a Bachelor of Arts, Alexandria says, “I realised that what I really wanted to do was communicate. Given that I have not stopped talking since the day I could talk, radio was the natural choice, so I changed to a communication studies major.

“I loved it immediately. Sound and Radio Production lectures with Trevor John were a particular highlight. I remember the day he made everyone in our tutorial join his local cricket club to boost membership. And who could forget Bruce Morgan? I don’t think there was a student who didn’t hear his story of getting Lady Chatterley’s Lover reinstated into the Library at least four times.”

Alexandria has since forged a career in the field for which she seemed destined. “Post uni I worked in regional television (NRTV in Coffs Harbour), before moving to Brisbane to Network Ten. I then went over to Channel Nine where I was (like many others) retrenched. ‘Welcome to media, Love,’ my boss said to me at the time. I then had a brief stint with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra doing their media before I was seduced by ‘Aunty’ and offered my dream job - radio presenting on the ABC.” Alexandria was with 612 ABC Local Radio from 2000-2005 and is currently with 4BC (Fairfax). She is also a feature writer for Bmag (South-East Queensland’s largest lifestyle publication) and does some TV work which she says is “great fun”.

Along with some unique memories Alexandria says, “My time at Newcastle gave me a lot of practical skills that have really helped me get ahead in the competitive industry of media. I have nothing but very fond memories of it with a soft spot for seahorses.”

One of Anya’s roles in her new position is as the Aboriginal Education Advisor for her school, a position usually awarded to experienced Aboriginal teachers.

“I am extremely honoured to be given this position. One of the reasons I was given the role is because the focus on Aboriginal Education at the University of Newcastle. It is compulsory to complete Aboriginal Educational Studies as part of our degree.

Not all universities offer this as a mandatory requirement.”

In June this year Anya returned to Ourimbah for her graduation ceremony. She was thrilled at the opportunity to catch up with those who had supported her during her university days.

“It was wonderful to see Deborah O’Neill [former academic and now Federal Member of Parliament], in her successful new career, and have my photo taken with her. She was an inspiring lecturer, and I hope to work with her in future endeavours.

Gordon Lyons also made a huge difference to me whilst studying. He was with me every step of the way. The lecturers and staff of Newcastle Uni are exceptional people who I will never forget.”

Now happily ensconced in her chosen profession - and with the benefits this delivers - Anya celebrated her graduation by treating her family to dinner at a restaurant.

“After being a student for six years, this was a landmark occasion!”

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FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT A GLOBAL IMPRINT

Ong-Koh Wee Nah (right) and her husband Ong Thiam Huat, a fellow Newcastle graduate (Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical 1977) and Colombo Plan Scholar, pictured at Xinduqiao.

A long career in architecture has rewarded Newcastle graduate Ong-Koh Wee Nah with the opportunity to work on a variety of interesting projects in countries such as China, Taiwan, India, Pakistan and Dubai.

Wee Nah’s professional achievements have been complemented by the many exciting cultural experiences she has been able to enjoy as a welcome adjunct to her working life.

“After graduating in 1979, I was lucky to start my career as a member of the Changi Airport Terminal One design team and then moved to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority, now part of Singapore’s Land Transport Authority.”

After 20 years in transportation projects, Wee Nah joined the private sector consultancy company CPG to gain greater exposure. This position saw her travelling widely while working on design for projects ranging from Turf Club to hospitals, residential projects and university facilities to town planning.

“I was stationed in Dubai for half a year leading a team to complete the design of a financial centre for tender. The experience was an eye opener and gave me the exposure to international consultancy work.”

Currently Wee Nah is General Manager and project director for Frasers Property China based in Chengdu. After five years in China she has overseen two major projects from conception to operation. The first project was a retail/office mall in Beijing which was completed and in operation within 18 months, just before the Beijing Olympics. The second project was the development of the largest

logistic center in Western China with a floor area of 193,996 square metres which was completed within 20 months.

that I have the full support from my family, and my spirit of learning has spurred me to greater challenges. I have no regrets.

For Wee Nah, the wonder of cultural experiences in the places she has worked is as memorable as the work itself.

“Life is a continuous learning adventure!”

“The beauty of working overseas is that you can truly immerse in the culture and lifestyle.

Sichuan has one of the best cuisines and it is relatively cheap. Where can you find starfish prawn soup steamboats and fresh abalones at RMB156 per kg? They also boast of the best hot pot steamboats. Sichuanese also have very peculiar likings for rabbit heads, poultry heads, necks, wing tips, feet and webs.”

She continues, “Around Sichuan province, there are many UNESCO World Heritage sites like Juizhaigou which has the best mirrored lakes, coloured pools, crystal ponds and majestic waterfalls. Also Huanglong Valley with its coloured pools; Xi’an Terracotta Warriors; ChongQing’s Dazu Rock Carvings of spectacular Buddhist statues dated from the 9th to the 13th Century; Chengdu’s Leshan Grand Buddha standing 70 metres high carved on a cliff at the confluence of Min, Qingyi and Dadu Rivers and many, many more wonders. The panda breeding and research center is another site one cannot miss when in Chengdu.”

Although working overseas meant being away from her comfort zone and family, Wee Nah says it gave her opportunities to experience a different world. “My study at Newcastle University from 1974 to 1979 provided me a good, solid foundation to be independent and adventurous in my undertakings. I am glad

ONG-KOH WEE NAH Bachelor of Architecture 1979 Bachelor of Design (Architecture) 1977 Colombo Plan Scholar

Ong-Koh Wee Nah (right) with her daughter in Juizhaigou with the frozen waterfall behind.

The lovable panda at the Panda Breeding and Research Centre in Chengdu.

17 | ALUMNI

GIANG BISCAN

ENG HWEE ONG

Doctor of Philosophy 2004 Bachelor of Engineering 1998

Doctor of Philosophy 2010 Bachelor of Engineering 2004

With an academic career in the field of Chemical Engineering and a talent for networking, Dr Giang Biscan has managed to combine the two in a successful career, including the creation of her own company.

“Your mind can achieve what you dare to dream”.

“I first came to Newcastle as an overseas student for my Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical), then later had the privilege of working with Professor Kevin Galvin on a new technology, the Reflux Classifier, for my PhD in Chemical Engineering. I learned a lot back then about business and networking while helping with the commercialisation of the technology.”

Shortly after she graduated, an international company relocated Giang to California to develop a new technology for composite materials. She completed an evening MBA program at UCLA while working and started to mingle with business people there.

“During my three year MBA course at UCLA I organised over 200 networking events and conferences, and started to form a network of passionate internet and software entrepreneurs around me. Before I knew it, investors started to contact me looking for investment opportunities. Tech start-ups started to contact me for all types of support while they try to get their ideas off the ground and people started to refer to me as ‘the startup angel’. And that’s how my company ‘Startup Angel’ was born!”

After 15 months of operation, the company now has a solid team providing support for many early-staged tech startups, helping them get in touch with investors to raise their initial rounds of funding and get media exposure. “What we are working on now is to raise $3million to create a startup incubator in Los Angeles. We recognise that the startup community in LA is ripe for another level of depth beyond networking events, so our timing is right.”

All of this makes for a very busy schedule, and Giang balances her life as a working mum with two daughters by completing her work late at night after they’ve gone to bed, spurred on by her passion for her field.

“As a society, we are experiencing a very exciting time in history.

Now internet and software entrepreneurs are able to create practical solutions in our life from nothing but the ideas in their mind. That’s magic and I feel very fortunate to be able to be a part of that.” http://theStartupAngel.com

Dr Eng Hwee Ong cites quotes like this as a constant source of motivation as he confronts new challenges in the field of mobile communications and wireless technologies.

Ever since he was a young engineer in a Greenfield telecommunication company in Singapore, Eng Hwee had a dream to be involved in the technological evolution that he believed would redefine the ways people communicate and stay connected in the future.

“It is this dream that spurred me to pursue my doctoral studies at the University of Newcastle. The geo-location of the University is one of the most unique in Australia, situated within natural bushland. The tranquility of such an environment makes it a perfect place to study, apart from its consistent top ten national ranking in terms of research outcomes.”

Upon graduation, Eng Hwee worked as an intern at the global research organisation, Nokia Research Center (NRC) located in Helsinki, Finland.

“I am very excited about the internship with NRC as I am able to gain valuable experience from the industry and apply the concepts of my research in real-world problems.”

Working as a Senior Researcher, Eng Hwee continues his research in wireless networking, and future cooperative and cognitive communications systems. “Today, I am involved in the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standardisation activities in which I play a role in shaping the future of wireless technologies. I have also filed several patent applications in the areas of wireless local area networks and cellular networks. What thrills me most is the privilege to work with many outstanding researchers - some of them are renowned authors of books which I had read as a student.”

“The International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (UNIPRS) and the University of Newcastle Postgraduate Research Scholarship Central (UNRSC), enabled me to relocate from my hometown in Singapore to Australia, and now to Finland where I have truly experienced the winter darkness and midnight sun. The University has, in many ways, transformed my dream into a reality.”

ALUMNI | 18

FACULTY OF HEALTH HEALTH ECONOMICS - A GROWING DISCIPLINE of New South Wales. He has been awarded over $25 million in competitive research funding and has undertaken commissioned work for a range of multi-lateral, bilateral and philanthropic institutions such as Atlantic Philanthropies, the South Pacific Commission, the World Health Organisation and the United Nations. His research has made an impact at the local, national and international level.

For Newcastle, the return of alumnus Professor Christopher Doran as the Professor of Health Research Economics with the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), the University of Newcastle and the Hunter Valley Research Foundation is a real coup. It also allows collaboration with researchers, clinicians and policy makers to ensure the limited dollars allocated to healthcare are spent wisely and efficiently.

Professor Doran graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Economics in 1993 and with a PhD in 1999. Since then he has worked at the University of Queensland and the University

PATRICIA HATHERLY Diploma in Education 1972 Bachelor of Arts 1971 While starting in education, Homeopath, Lactation Consultant and author, Patricia Hatherly (nee Walker) now combines her various interests and areas of expertise to do that which she is passionate about – improving the health and well-being of women and children.

After graduating in 1971, Patricia taught in Mt Isa until 1980. It was when she began

Recently, he was involved in the largest and most rigorous economic evaluation of preventive strategies ever undertaken to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of 150 preventive health interventions.

The evaluation reviewed preventative strategies in areas such as obesity, mental health, tobacco use, alcohol use, nutrition, body weight and physical activity. This research has provided a solid platform for policy action on the prevention of non-communicable disease in Australia.

As well as leading a National Health and Medical Research Council capacity building grant, Professor Doran has contributed health economic expertise in the development of clinical guidelines for

her own family that her interests began to focus on childbirth education, lactation and homeopathy.

Patricia now has twenty years professional experience working as a certified Lactation Consultant and has been in private practice as a homeopath since 1995. Her clinic treats a wide range of complaints such as colic and reflux in babies; infertility; breastfeeding problems and the treatment of behavioural problems in children (including Aspergers and Autism).

post-traumatic stress disorder, complementary health care, intellectual disability, cystic fibrosis, pharmacy, cancer, cardio vascular disease, and the drug and alcohol field.

“Health economics is a growing discipline which is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s environment of budget cuts and fiscal rationing. Tools of economic evaluation are already used extensively in Australia in the listing of pharmaceutical and medical products and enable decision-makers to better understand what they receive for investments in health and healthcare interventions.

“It is an exciting time to join HMRI and I look forward to the opportunity of working with the network of researchers, clinicians and policy makers in the Hunter and New England region to ensure money spent on health care is used effectively.”

As a leading Australian health economist an international expert in the area of priority setting, Professor Doran will contribute much to the benefit of our region.

Patricia has published two books: The Homoeopathic Physician’s Guide to Lactation and her most recent, The Lacs - A Materia Medica & Repertory, both of which she has donated to the University and are available from her website www.patriciahatherly.com.

Patricia is the current President of the Queensland Homoeopathic Association, is the Immediate Past President of the AHA National Council and representative to its International Council.

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JANE READ (nee FINNIE)

KAZUMA HONDA

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) 2006 Open Foundation Certificate 2002

Bachelor of Nursing 2010 2010 Dean’s Merit Award

From the world of ballet to the world of biomedical science, Jane Read has had a unique career path.

Originally from Japan, Kazuma studied Nursing at the University’s Ourimbah campus on the Central Coast.

At the age of 30, Jane retired from her position in the Australian Ballet where she performed for 10 years. In her time there, she reached the rank of Senior Artist.

Since graduating he has worked at the Royal North Shore Hospital Intensive Care Unit on a 12-month rotation. “This has been an incredibly challenging yet rewarding role, which has certainly opened my eyes to the hardships of nursing,” says Kazuma.

“I have been privileged to have danced with the most talented of the world’s dancers and ballet companies, in all the destinations the world of ballet has to offer. It was a fantastic career while it lasted but eventually I felt it was time to move on, especially as I had been lucky enough to dance all the principle roles every little girl dreams of.”

Jane completed the six month Open Foundation course and was accepted into the Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree, graduating with First Class Honours and the Faculty of Health Medal in 2006.

“This could not have been achieved without the mentoring and inspiration from the many lecturers associated with this degree.

However the time and effort afforded to me by Professor Ken Beagley (now with University of Queensland), and Professor Phil Hansbro was inspirational and invaluable.”

After graduating Jane was offered the opportunity to work with Laureate Professor R. John Aitken at the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development of Biological Sciences. In conjunction with Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), IVF Australia (IVFA) and Hunter IVF (HIVF), she is currently researching the effects of oxidative DNA damage in human sperm on fertility.

While Jane says she is currently balancing her research with the important business of having a family, her vision for the future includes a possible PhD involving both of her interests: microbiology research and human reproduction research. “These are the areas I would most like to be researching, with the aim of achieving better contraceptives for both males and females and maybe even providing vaccines aimed at protecting against reproductive diseases such as Chlamydia and the herpes simplex viruses. The only fear I’ve encountered in association with this work is the lack of funding that can be attributed to this area of research.”

With her past achievements as a guide it would appear that this challenge is unlikely to stop Jane achieving her goals!

Kazuma believes he would not have had this opportunity if it were not for his training and mentors at the University.

“I was fortunate enough to be mentored by an extremely dedicated lecturer and this has inspired me to achieve as much as I possibly can.”

During his time at the University and in keeping with the caring perspective which is essential in nursing, Kazuma worked with other students to ensure their wellbeing.

“I was quite active in trying to assist international-nursing students by organising meetings at lunchtime to review any issues they were having during the semester. That experience came a very close second to my greatest achievement on campus, being awarded the 2010 Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence.”

Continuing on the road of academic pursuit, Kazuma is now preparing to undertake an Honours program.

“My Honours program will see me travel back to my native Japan to conduct research.

“As a nurse and future researcher it is my vision to assist nurses to not only be well prepared and educated, but also to feel a sense of belonging within the nursing community and hospital, in order to reduce the high turnover of nurses.

“I believe nurses are vital to every country’s future and, as a result, they need to be the very best they can be.”

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FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY THE LIFE OF PI It’s a surprisingly engaging experience to speak with the Laureate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Newcastle and world expert on pi, Jon Borwein. When discussing his recent record breaking calculations, Jon peppers his chat with an intriguing mix of references to mathematical and scientific concepts such as quantum flux and exaflops as well as analogies drawn from popular culture.

Affectionately known as ‘Dr Pi’, Jon was recently part of the research team which, using IBM’s “BlueGene/P” supercomputer, calculated the sixty-trillionth binary digit of Pi-squared.

“IBM Australia came to me and said, ‘We’d like to do something special for Pi Day.’ My friend at Berkeley and I came up with something that we thought was worth doing because it was mathematically more interesting than other things that can be done. At the end of the day we got the equivalent of 2000 years (of parallel computer time).

To put it in context, my friend at Apple estimated that the only thing that could have been done this year that took more computation was Toy Story 3 and there’s an enormous amount of computation in those movies - more than in most scientific computations.”

Because of his latest computations Jon says, “It’s actually kick started some of my research into the question, ‘What does it mean to be random?’ What it means to be random is to not be able to see patterns. But I can make something that’s highly non-random and kind of hide it a little. This is significant for things like bank codes and secure log-ons. We try to fake randomness on computers but they’re pseudo random numbers.”

LAUREATE PROFESSOR JONATHAN BORWEIN School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences Faculty of Science and Information Technology Laureate Professor Jon Borwein is recognised as a leading expert in optimization theory and experimental mathematics, and has done breakthrough research in computational number theory.

“Nobody really has an idea what random is. It’s one of these really important terms like ‘consciousness’ or ‘red’ that no-one can accurately define because we don’t have the language for it.”

Jon received further formal recognition of his career in May this year at the ‘Science at the Shine Dome 2011’ conference in Canberra when he was inaugurated into the Australian Academy of Science.

Jon’s passion for maths and, specifically, pi is palpable. But he’s a mathematician with an endearing sense of humour. “I was young when (American TV satire) Saturday Night Live first came out. Garett Morris played an aging ex-major league baseball player. He would sit on the stoop of his apartment looking like he came out of a Spike Jonz movie and say, ‘Baseball been very, very good to me.’”

Jon laughs as he appropriates the character’s voice and says, “I would say: Pi has been very, very good to me!”

President of the Australian Academy of Science, Suzanne Cory presents Jon with his certificate of fellowship to the Academy.

At his inauguration into the Australian Academy of Science.

21 | ALUMNI

NGOC MAI TRAN

AARON FULLER

Bachelor of Mathematics 2007

Master of Environmental and Business Management 2009

On first arriving in Newcastle as an 8th grader from Vietnam, Ngoc Mai Tran says she was identified as a “geek with ‘fitting-in’ issues.”

Now doing her PhD at UC Berkeley, Ngoc has come a long way from those early days and goes so far as to say her time as an undergraduate in Newcastle defined her as a person.

An early acheiver, Ngoc started taking First Year Math classes under the guidance of her teachers at Newcastle High and Professor Jacqui Rammage from the University.

“Jacqui even went as far as giving me private lessons on group theory with another young student, and she offered to drive me home. I concluded ‘Mathematicians are so nice!’”

At the age of 16 Ngoc entered the Bachelor of Mathematics program at the University of Newcastle.

“My positive academic experience continued at the University, along with a newly formed social experience. I took classes in Mathematics, Computer Science, Chemistry and Biology and was very lucky to have supportive professors.

“Jacqui and Professor Iain Raeburn continued to be my mentors and friends. In fact, I am visiting them this summer. I also lived at International House for three semesters, played for the soccer team, participated in the sports club and made life-long friends from many countries.”

With an enthusiastic spirit, Aaron Fuller combines what he calls his ‘eco activism’ with a healthy dose of ‘corporate headwind.’

These twin foci are hallmarks of many modern graduates.

“My passion is ensuring we do what we can to leave the planet in a better shape than when we inherited it. At times, that means short term pain for long term gain. We live in a society, not an economy.

“At the time of applying for my Masters in Business and Environment, I was working for IAG within their sustainability department, back when Australia thought green was the ‘new black’, and we were on the verge of a paradigm shift.”

While studying for his Masters, Aaron was selected as one of 25 people for a year-long fellowship with the Centre for Sustainable Leadership (CSL). He also went to Melbourne in 2009 to train with Al Gore and returns to spread the climate change message around New South Wales.

While at CSL, Aaron launched a project called ‘Wipe It Out’ which aims to eradicate non-recycled toilet paper in Australia by 2015. “We chop down 270,000 trees per day just to wipe our butt. Our grandkids will look back at us and ask, ’what were you thinkin’?’”

Ngoc graduated in 2007 and went on to do Honours at Melbourne University. She is now a third year PhD student in statistics at Berkeley.

Aaron is the Head of Digital Marketing for one of Australia’s largest direct insurers and is also the owner and manager of Shiftlock, a Sydney recruitment agency which focuses on business intelligence roles (data, analysts, statisticians etc.).

“The undergrad experience at Newcastle defined me as a person.

I have fond memories of the town, the beach, the University and most of all the people who inspired me to consider Mathematics as a career. I sincerely hope to contribute to the Newcastle community one day.”

Of his time at Newcastle Aaron says, “I would not have the role I have now, the discipline to apply what I read and learn in the fast paced world of digital marketing, or the motivation to push myself in external ambitions such as my eco activism and running my own business.

“The endless support and encouragement from my lecturers, especially Liam Phelan, helped me get through some of the more challenging subjects.”

His passion is clear. “There is a saying I try and live my life by ‘Give everything I can, take only what I need’. While I have not mastered the art of balancing all the various aspects of life, I try with all the resources I have to make a positive difference while I am on this beautiful planet.” www.shiftlock.com.au

ALUMNI | 22

INAUGURAL SCHOLARS’ WEEK A SUCCESS The University of Newcastle kicked off a new initiative this year holding ‘Scholars’ Week’, a week dedicated to recognising the academic excellence of scholarship and prize winners.

Donors, many of them alumni, were invited to meet the students and present their awards at a number of ceremonies hosted by the faculties.

Also in attendance at the events were University academic staff, and the family and friends of the recipients.

The University will award 250 donor funded scholarships in 2011. These scholarships provide support for disadvantaged students, as well as recognise academic excellence, sporting talent, and artistic and musical abilities.

University of Newcastle (UON) Foundation CEO, Louise O’Connell, said Scholars’ Week was about celebrating and recognising achievement and potential, as well as thanking the University’s generous donors.

“The financial support that the University receives from individual donors, businesses, professional and community organisations is invaluable.

“It is wonderful to see our donors, many of whom are alumni, came back on campus and meet the current students and pass on their knowledge and experience to them.”

Scholars’ Week will become an annual event on the University calendar.

Alumnus Geoff Leonard AM (right) with his 2011 scholarship recipient Kelly Rodgers at the Faculty of Business and Law Scholars’ Week event.

Recipient of the Ken Gordon Memorial Honours Scholarship Emille Thomas with alumnus Vic Levi (right), from the Friends of the University group.

Alumnus Dr Daniel Sutcliffe with GHD Indigenous Scholarship recipient Kelly Bridge (left) at the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment Scholars’ Week event.

Art scholarship recipients Rachael Ireland (left) and Abbey Cecil (right) with donor and alumnus Jennie Thomas (centre).

23 | ALUMNI

Left to right: Shaping Futures scholarship winners Lisa Whitten, Lorraine Elwell and Daniel Frost with UON Foundation CEO Louise O’Connell.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE DOLLAR AT A TIME Facing challenges is something that students Lorraine Elwell, Daniel Frost and Lisa Whitten do on a daily basis.

These talented but determined students are the first winners of the new Shaping Futures Scholarship Fund – a new scholarship which aims to help disadvantaged but also gifted students. These three scholarships were funded through donations – the majority coming from alumni.

The Shaping Futures Scholarship Fund is a beneficiary of this year’s University Annual Appeal. The appeal was launched recently by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Saunders, with the support of the Executive Committee of Alumni and the Alumni Relations office.

“So many of our Alumni are incredibly grateful for the opportunities their experience and study at the University opened up for them personally, and it is that spirit of gratitude and generosity that sees so many of them investing in the futures of students who follow them.

“In doing so, they also change the futures of communities as our student’s graduate and go on to make a real difference around the globe” said Rosemary Thomson, Associate Director External Relations who leads the global Alumni Network.

Alumni are able to contribute to the appeal, with every dollar going to fund $4,000 scholarships per student. The more money raised, the more scholarships can be awarded and more students can realise their dream.

MAKE A DONATION TODAY!

Challenges like financial hardship, disability, health problems and family issues can all mean the difference between completing a degree and dropping out.

Speech Pathology student Lorraine is a single mum. Her son has a rare disorder which means he has about 100 epileptic seizures a day.

Lorraine often does her uni studies beside his hospital bed, but she refuses to give up.

“Thanks to this scholarship I am one step closer to achieving my goal.”

Daniel is in his first year of his Business degree, despite the many obstacles he has had to overcome as a sufferer of Multiple Hereditary Exostosis. He’s had more than 100 tumours removed from his body so far and has a permanently dislocated wrist and elbow.

“I’m so grateful that now I can buy a computer. Handwriting my essays was so painful due to my disability.”

Psychology student Lisa is raising four foster children on her own as well as studying.

“This scholarship has helped not only me but my four girls.”

You can help more students like Lorraine, Daniel and Lisa by making a donation.

Visit our secure website at www.newcastle.edu.au/foundation/annual-appeal

ALUMNI | 24

CAMPUS NEWS SMART BUILDING DESIGN DELIVERS ITS OWN RESOURCES A $1.2 million facility purpose-built to provide thousands of litres of rainwater for sophisticated water engineering research was opened in July at the University’s Callaghan campus.

The extension to the University’s civil, surveying and environmental engineering space is one of two Australian Government funded buildings opened by the Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans.

The second building – the architecture and built environment workshop – is a $2 million state of the art facility that brings together engineering, architecture and industrial design students in a multi-disciplinary environment that is unique to the sector.

Professor John Carter, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, said the new spaces provided engineering and built environment students and researchers with world class facilities. “Newcastle has a well established reputation for leading teaching practices and research in the areas of engineering and built environment,” he said.

“We are one of only two universities in Australia that is rated ‘well above the world standard’ for civil engineering research under the Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) system.”

SWITCH TURNED ON FOR ENERGY RESEARCH HUB The Hunter’s leadership in clean energy research was highlighted by the opening of the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER).

Funded with the assistance of a $30 million Australian Government grant, NIER is a flagship research centre with unrivalled opportunities to advance energy and minerals research.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Nicholas Saunders said NIER reaffirmed the Hunter region’s reputation as a national hub for energy research.

DR ALAN BROADFOOT Doctor of Philosophy 1997 Master of Engineering 1985 Bachelor of Engineering 1981

“The University is a leader in energy and resources research and NIER will further advance our work in clean energy production, energy efficiency and the minimisation of carbon emissions,” Professor Saunders said.

Under the leadership of alumnus and Director, Dr Alan Broadfoot, NIER directly contributes to Australian Government priorities including the Clean Energy Initiative, the National Strategy on Energy Efficiency and the National Framework for Climate Change Science.

The Institute will have ongoing benefits in the Hunter region, promoting the growth and delivery of applied research facilities for students, and increasing the number of graduates entering the energy and resources labour markets.

NIER is located at the former BHP-Billiton Newcastle Technology Centre adjacent to the University of Newcastle’s Callaghan campus

FAMILY ACTION CENTRE CELBRATES 25 YEARS! Since its earliest days offering the Hunter Caravan Project, the University’s Family Action Centre now offers a range of community and research projects to support families, and delivers teaching to engage current students in volunteering. The Family Action Centre has a vision for a truly civil society, and a belief that family wellbeing is the cornerstone of healthy communities.

In June, over 100 people gathered for the 25 year milestone. The three Directors who have led the Centre’s growth over the years joined current and former staff and Centre volunteers to reminisce and celebrate. They are; Professor Wendy Schiller (1986-1990), Ms. Di James (1990-2000) and Ms Judi Geggi the current Director (since 2000).

Ms Geggi believes the support of alumni as volunteers and donors has been an important part of the Centre’s success, and that alumni themselves have gained much from their own experience in working in projects with local families. These sentiments were echoed by the Centre’s Patron, ABC broadcaster Ms Geraldine Doogue.

“Being a Patron of the Family Action Centre has been one of the proudest commitments of my working life. Having watched it grow, adapt and imagine more for itself - it is a model of a truly modern Australian institution”. www.newcastle.edu.au/research-centre/fac/

25 | ALUMNI

Bru ce

How 196 a rth 6

GRADUATES’ WALK Alumni will soon get the chance to literally become part of the University of Newcastle.

From 2012 alumni will be able to purchase commemorative pavers engraved with their name, degree and year of graduation which will then be set in a path to start at the library and progress to the Great Hall.

Imagine your child waiting outside the Great Hall for their graduation and seeing your name amongst the thousands of others who have made the journey before them!

The University’s first graduate, Bruce Howarth (Master of Engineering 1966) along with 137 other pioneer graduates of the University will be the first alumni pavers on the Graduates’ Walk.

If you would like to join them, send an email to alumni@newcastle.edu.au to register your interest.

UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE HONORARY DEGREE RECIPIENTS - APRIL 2011 PROFESSOR CHRISTOPHER CHEN Doctor of Medicine honoris causa A recognised pioneer of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) Professor Chen has spent more than 40 years contributing to the knowledge and advancement of reproductive medicine. In the early 1980s, his team at Flinders Medical Centre in Adelaide became only the third centre in the world to achieve an IVF pregnancy. He went on to assist the conception of the world’s first IVF triplets in 1983, the world’s first frozen egg pregnancy in 1986, and Asia’s first set of sextuplets in 1998. Professor Chen is currently the Medical Director and CEO at the Christopher Chen Centre for Reproductive Medicine at Gleneagles Hospital, Singapore.

DR MICHAEL JOHNS Doctor of the University honoris causa Dr Johns is the recently retired Deputy Chancellor who has attended many alumni functions over the past few years both in Australia and abroad. He served as a member of the University Council from 1990 - 2011. Over the past 20 years, Dr Johns has dedicated himself to the University community and is a crucial link with the broader Hunter region.

SISTER MAUREEN MCGUIRK AM Doctor of Education honoris causa A Sister of Mercy since 1949, Sister McGuirk has been a prominent influence in the NSW education system as a teacher, school principal and researcher. During her 21 years as the Headmistress of Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College in North Sydney, Sister McGuirk transformed the century old traditional curriculum, introducing technological-based education and diversifying the student population.

DR JOHN OLSEN AO, OBE Doctor of Letters honoris causa Dr Olsen is an internationally renowned artist who was born in Cooks Hill, Newcastle. Recognised for the inherent Australian qualities in his painting, he was awarded the 2005 Archibald Prize for his controversial self-portrait ‘Janus Faced’. One of Dr Olsen’s most successful artworks, the mural Salute to Five Bells, hangs in the Sydney Opera House.

You are invited to attend the 36th annual Alumni Awards.

Join award finalists from Australia and across the globe for a night of inspiration and celebration! These alumni will inspire you with their regional, national and international achievements.

Wednesday 14 September 2011 Gala dinner from 6.45pm Hosted by the Executive Committee of Alumni Newcastle City Hall - Concert Hall Limited tickets available: www.trybooking.com/13048

For more information visit: www.newcastle.edu.au/alumni/awards/uon.html

2011

ALUMNI

THE SKY IS THE LIMIT!

AWARDS

ALUMNI | 26

NETWORK NEWS AUSTRALIA SINGAPORE ALUMNI AWARDS

The University of Newcastle scooped the winning pool at the inaugural Australia Singapore Alumni Awards held at the Australian High Commission in March. Hosted by Austrade, the prestigious awards are open to graduates from all Australian universities who live and work in Singapore. Newcastle graduate, Minister Khaw Boon Wan (then Singapore’s Minister of Health), was the major winner of the evening taking out the prestigious 2011 Eminent Alumni Award. Minister Khaw, who was asked to address the crowd of 280 guests, spoke highly of his experience in Newcastle and highlighted Australia and Singapore’s important relationship. Other Newcastle winners were, Dr Peter Waring - one of three recipients of the Young Alumni Award and Mr Bill Chua - one of five recipients of the Distinguished Service Award. Pictured left to right: The Austrade Director; Dr Peter Waring; Mr Bill Chua; Ms Rosemary Thomson; Minister Khaw; Australia’s High Commissioner to Singapore Mr Doug Chester; an Austrade Representative.

SINGAPORE PAYS TRIBUTE TO VC

The Australian High Commissioner to Singapore, Mr Doug Chester (left) paid tribute to Professor Nick Saunders (centre) for his contribution to education in Singapore and Australia at a dinner in June also attended by eminent alumnus Dr Khaw Boon Wan (right) Singapore’s Minister for National Development.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders pictured at the tribute with Dr Tan Chin Nam, a University of Newcastle graduate and Colombo Plan Scholar who is the Chairman of the Media Development Authority (MDA) in Singapore.

MALAYSIA ALUMNI ‘HIGH TEA’

The Malaysian Alumni gathered for a ‘high tea’ hosted by Rosemary Thomson and Chapter Patron Dato’ Sri Esa Mohammed at his Busaba Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Great company and great food made for a great afternoon! The Malaysian Chapter were able to hold their AGM as part of the event. When the alumni present at the event discovered new graduate Sheela Khaw (Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics 2011) was an entrant in the Miss Global International Malaysia contest, they encouraged her to do an ‘impromptu’ presentation as preparation for the big event. Their feedback must have made it a sure thing as Sheela (pictured right) triumphed over other contestants to take the title and will represent her country later in the year at the Miss Global International Competition in the Caribbean.

Good luck Sheela!

27 | ALUMNI

INDONESIAN AWARD WINNER VISITS

The Alumni Relations office hosted a ‘back to campus’ visit by graduate Dr Agustinus Bandur in July. Dr Bandur, the recipient of the 2010 Indonesia Australia Alumni Award for Research and Innovation, visited to discuss opportunities for collaboration in education and research. He was also able to catch up with his PhD supervisor, Professor David Gamage. Pictured left to right: Rosemary Thomson; Dr Bandur, Professor Gamage.

SYDNEY SWANSONG FOR VC

Sydney Alumni gathered on 29 July for the annual Sydney Alumni reception. Wendy Lindgren, a former Sydney Alumni Convener paid tribute to the Vice-Chancellor for his contribution.

He was presented with a book in hope that he will enjoy a little light reading on the history of Sydney when he retires in October!

Left to right: Amy Lonergan; Corey McHattan; Anthony Padula; Louis Moore-Mulcahey and Gina Crompton.

BRISBANE ALUMNI MEDAL AWARDED

The famous ‘Brisbane Buzz’ emerged from the Queensland Rugby Club when the Brisbane Alumni gathered for their annual reception. Foundation Brisbane alumnus Peter Cameron presented the citation for the prestigious Brisbane Alumni Medal which was awarded to Mel Dunn (Master of Social Change and Development 2005) who has worked in the development of more than 18 countries and was the 2009 White Ribbon Ambassador.

Mel has received significant awards for his contributions over the years. Mel is pictured above (left) with the Chancellor, Professor Trevor Waring (right).

LONDON CONNECTIONS

London Alumni Coordinator Mark Arkinstall (B Engineering 1995) is amazed how graduates who may not have met before find immediate connection through the shared Newcastle experience. Pictured left to right: Mark, with Jonathon Lindsay (B Engineering 2009); Professor Aaron Quigley (PhD 2002); Bradley Herbert (B Science - Psychology 1999). Aaron and Bradley travelled from Scotland where Aaron holds the Chair of Human Computer Interaction at the University of St Andrews.

Next London Connection - Thursday 13 October.

SYDNEY ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED

The Sydney Alumni offer a $1,000 scholarship annually to a student facing challenging circumstances and challenges.

Pictured is Sydney Alumni Committee member, Jacqui Sales (B Laws/B Arts 2007) left, presenting the scholarship to Hailey Stoddard the 2011 recipient of the Sydney Alumni Scholarship.

Hailey is studying a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Primary Teaching at the University.

BRISBANE ALUMNI COMMITTEE

The Brisbane Alumni Committee came out for their annual planning breakfast with the University’s Alumni Relations staff the day following the Brisbane event.

Left to right: Adam O’Rourke (B Engineering 2008); Emma Ballantine (B Communication 2007); Nola Nielson (Associate Diploma in Social Welfare 1992); Gina Flores Sanchez (Master of International Business 2007); Alain Guillemain (MBA 2006).

Alumni living in Brisbane are invited to get involved and contact the Committee at: brisbane-alumni@newcastle.edu.au

ALUMNI EVENT DIARY

SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER 2011 Make sure your contact details are up to date to receive your invitation to Alumni events.

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

Newcastle Friday 2 September 2011 Newcastle University Sports Awards Dinner.

Noah’s on the Beach, 6pm www.theforum.org.au

Newcastle Thursday 6 October - Friday 7 October

Newcastle Friday 2 September Civil, Surveying and Environmental Engineering 44th Annual Dinner.

The Brennan Room, Callaghan Campus Tickets + RSVP by 26 August T: +61 2 4921 6040 Newcastle Tuesday 12 September Work Integrated Learning Awards Ceremony for Students and Staff.

University Art Gallery at 4pm.

Alumni welcome RSVP by 5 September T: +61 2 4921 8612 Newcastle Tuesday 13 September Morpeth Lecture Speaker: Father Nicholas King Topic: “What’s so special about translating the Bible?”

At the Christ Church Cathedral, Church Street 5.45pm for 6pm start. www.newcastle.edu.au/public-lectures Newcastle Wednesday 14 September 2011 Alumni Awards.

Newcastle City Hall 6.45pm for 7pm start www.trybooking.com/13048 See the Event Calendar for further 2011 events

External Relations

WE WELCOME YOUR VIEWS The University’s Alumni Relations team welcomes your views on this magazine, and invites you to submit articles and/or profiles for consideration for publication in future editions.

Adelaide Friday 7 October - Sunday 16 October See alumni participate at the13th Australian Masters Games, South Australia www.australianmastersgames.com Newcastle Wednesday 12 October John Turner Memorial Lecture Speakers: Greg and Sylvia Ray, authors of “Newcastle: The Missing Years ‘Recovering Memories’ - Photos and History of the 1930’s - 1940’s” at the Newcastle City Hall at 5.45pm for 6pm start www.newcastle.edu.au/public-lectures London Thursday 13 October London Connections 6.30pm, The Green Man Pub, NW1 3AU alumni@newcastle.edu.au Newcastle Friday 14 October Executive Committee of Alumni – Annual General Meeting Isabella’s Restaurant at 7.30am alumni@newcastle.edu.au

ACAA The University is a partner of the Australia-China Alumni Association.

Graduates based in China are welcome to join the association (ACAA) and to attend their regular events with alumni from all Australian universities. www.austchinaalumni.org/ Singapore Saturday 19 November Graduation Alumni Dinner Pre-dinner drinks from 6.30pm Dinner 7.30pm alumni@newcastle.edu.au Malaysia Sunday 20 November Malaysia Alumni Chapter Reception alumni@newcastle.edu.au Hong Kong Monday 22 November Graduation Ceremony and Alumni Dinner alumni@newcastle.edu.au

NOVEMBER Newcastle Wednesday 2 November Human Rights and Social Justice Lecture Speaker: Mr Julian Burnside AO QC. Topic: “Politics and Refugees: Power without Principles?”

Griffith Duncan Theatre Callaghan Campus at 1pm www.newcastle.edu.au/public-lectures

ALUMNI ADVANTAGE Alumni are invited to bring their expertise and knowledge back to campus to share with final year students through the Alumni Advantage Program - a breakfast series for current students.

Graduates speak on a topic of interest.

If you would like to present, email: alumni@newcastle.edu.au

Alumni Relations Email us at alumni@newcastle.edu.au or call +61 2 4921 6380

Business and Community T +61 2 4921 8612 partnerships@newcastle.edu.au www.newcastle.edu.au/business

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/UONAlumni

Office for the Advancement of Engaged Learning T +61 2 4921 5589 Kylie.Twyford@newcastle.edu.au

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/UoNAlumni Find us on LinkedIn: University of Newcastle Alumni, Australia Pictures of events and chapter details are available on www.newcastle.edu.au/alumni

UON Foundation T +61 2 4921 7453 UONFoundation@newcastle.edu.au www.newcastle.edu.au/foundation

UoN 2011/KKG10137 | CRICOS Provider 00109J

CONTACT US

www.newcastle.edu.au/event

Callaghan Graduation Ceremonies

Beijing, China Saturday 12 November ACAA Alumni Awards Gala Dinner www.newcastle.edu.au/alumni/awards