Yak Magazine - April by UON Student Central

BOGANISM Bridie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shea flies the flag for Bogans

BRONZED AND DANGEROUS Bridget Gunn investigates the new tanning solution Melanotan

DO THE RIGHT THING Melissa Wilson looks at keeping her karma balanced

THE HUNGER GAMES - EXTREME DIETING Sarah Webb gives advice on how not to diet

Issue 30 | April 2015 Brought to you by Student Central

EDITORIAL

Madeline Link - Magazine Managing Editor Owen Harvey - Deputy Managing Editor Emily Burley - Editor-in-Chief Isabella Batkovic - Editor Renae Burgess - Editor Lauren Gross - Editor Jackson Langford - Editor Bridie O’Shea - Editor Aisling Philippa - Editor Samuel Rayfield - Editor Sarah Webb - Editor Melissa Wilson - Editor Neha Lalchandani - Ourimbah Editor Breanna Yates - Lead Graphic Designer Mia Engel - Supporting Graphic Designer Kathleen Maier - Supporting Graphic Designer Chelsea Groth - Promotions Coordinator Maddie Bradford - Contributing Writer Georgina Bridger - Contributing Writer Bridget Gunn - Contributing Writer Bronte Hoy - Contributing Writer Sarah Khan - Contributing Designer Sarah McDonald - Contributing Designer

SUBMISSIONS The Yak editorial team is always on the look out for passionate student writers and graphic designers to contribute to the magazine. If you would like to take the opportunity to get your work published, please send a sample of your writing or graphic design work to yakmedia@ newcastle.edu.au.

ADVERTISING For advertising opportunities, contact Yak Media at yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au www.yakatuon.com facebook.com/YakMedia twitter.com/YakMedia

CONTENTS // 03 Editor’s Letter | This Month’s Biting Question // 04 Yak Snap //05 Sports | Five Tips to Improve Your Resume //06 Go Back To Where I Came From //07 Clubs and Societies: NUBUG | Health: Booting Your Brain-Dead Self //08 PHD //09 A Day In the Life of Vanessa O’Neil //10 Bronzed and Dangerous //12 The Hunger Games: Extreme Dieting //14 Boganism

//16 Tech-Savvy But Are We Still Tech-Social //19 Do the Right Thing //20 To Travel Agent Or Not To Travel Agent //21 Things You Probably Didn’t Know Were Illegal //23 Mass Debate: Books Vs E-Books //24 Mic Drop: Auxfire //25 Watt Space //26 What’s On: April

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NEXT MONTH // Graffitti - Art or Vandalism? // Invisible Illnesses // UON Bucketlist // Fan Stalking Get your free copy from press-points around campus on Monday, 4 May.

Yak Magazine is produced by students at the University of Newcastle. The views expressed herein are not necessarily the views of the University of Newcastle, unless explicitly stated. The University of Newcastle accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any of the opinions of information contained in this issue of Yak Magazine. In addition, Yak Magazine may at times accept forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of affiliate compensation to subsidise the costs associated with producing the magazine. We recommend you do your own research and draw your own conclusions about any product claim, technical specifications, statistic, quote or other representation about a product, service, manufacturer, or provider.

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 3

EDITOR’S LETTER As I stood in my bathroom covered head-to-toe in stolen coffee grinds I realised student life had made more me than just a time-poor succulent enthusiast with heightened anxiety levels. University had made me a professional scrooge. A genius. A prophet, if you will. It’s not the first time I’d found myself pioneering a life hack, my inability to afford ‘Frank Body Scrub’ for the purpose of an on-trend Instagram post was the driving force behind my foray into a life of crime. And I know I’m not alone. To those of you out there using a stove-heated pot in lieu of an iron, I salute you. To the would-be chefs scrambling eggs in the microwave, I salute you. To all of you out there making do with what you’ve got, I salute you. There’s no doubt we’ve officially reached the point in semester where our motivation starts to slip, but keep life-hacking your way through. This month, the team at Yak Editorial have worked extra hard to bring you the stories you love in a magazine that (when used correctly) doubles as an umbrella. You can thank us later.

Madeline Link THIS MONTH’S BITING QUESTION:

If you could forget one moment from your life, what would it be?

DIGITIAL MANAGING EDITOR

EDITOR

Throwing up on the teacups ride.

Any time I look at my bank account.

JACKELYN BASSETT

EDITOR

ISABELLA BATKOVIC That time I quickly devoured a packet of sultanas before releasing the box was infested with tiny bugs and their eggs. Mmm free protein. EDITOR

RENAE BURGESS That time in 5th grade when I was talking to my crush and one of the straps of my tank top snapped, half my shirt fell down without me noticing, and he had to point out that my right, scantily clad boob was staring at him.

JACKSON LANGFORD

SUPPORTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER

KATHLEEN MAIER

That time I lost my bikini top after getting smashed by a wave at the beach...and not noticing...and only realising when I could feel the stare of the old man sitting on the sand... EDITOR

BRIDIE O’SHEA The mental breakdown I experienced after getting lost in the Mirror Maze at Maitland Show.

SUPPORTING GRAPHIC DESGINER

MIA ENGEL

Pretty much every time I speak... Too often something stupid comes out

EDITOR

SAMUEL RAYFIELD My birth.

EDITOR

LAUREN GROSS That time I fell down a hill at school and broke my wrist. Hahaha yes that actually happened. PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR

CHELSEA GROTH

Any time that I thought wearing fluro chothes was a good idea. DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

OWEN HARVEY

EDITOR

SARAH WEBB My very first driving “lesson”, where the car somehow ended up ‘bulldozing’ a neighbours’ shrubbery, therefore damaging my mothers antenna. To this day, the radio crackling is a constant reminder. EDITOR

MELISSA WILSON

Yeah, I regret watching 2 Girls 1 Cup.

Working in a sports bar throughout my entire degree with absolutely no interest in sport, I get bored just thinking about it.

OURIMBAH EDITOR

LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Wearing a pretty flowery dress and being chased by a street dog in my neighbourhood when I was nine. Horrifyingly hilarious even till today.

O’party, 2014.

NEHA LALCHANDANI

BREANNA YATES

4 | Yak Magazine April 2015

#Yaksnap

yakatuon.com /yakmedia

/yakatuon

Yak Magazine March 2015 | 5

Jackson Langford team this season!

tells you to get behind your

As the winter sports season approaches, our competitive teams are gearing up for a crack at sporting glory and they need your support! Why not get a bunch of mates together on the weekends and help lift our students to a home ground victory?

every weekend of the season. You’ll find the diamond on Oval 3, behind The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre. Grab a spot on the hill behind the plate for a close-up view of the action – and make sure you sample their amazing bacon & egg sangas!

Who Is Playing & Where Can You See Them? Uni has a number of clubs competing over the winter season, with well over 50 teams between them!

Men’s & Women’s Football

Uni Rugby Catch the uni’s rugby team playing in the premier Newcastle & Hunter Rugby competition. Men’s and Women’s home games are played at Uni Oval 1. The old “grassy knoll” is now home to the new student accommodation precinct so join the crowd up on the balcony of the Harry Bradford Lounge for the best view of the game. Bar facilities are operated on club days to keep you well-hydrated.

Uni Rugby League Our League boys also play at Uni Oval 1 in the Newcastle Rugby League competition. They generally play on the weekends that Rugby Union play away, so there is barely a weekend that you won’t be treated to a footy feast. Again, the best place to watch is from the balcony at the Harry Bradford Lounge, with the boys behind the bar catering to your weekend thirst.

Uni Baseball The ‘Camels’ play both Major and Minor league in the Newcastle Baseball competition, meaning they will have home games almost

Both guys’ and girls’ clubs have teams playing in Zone Premier League all the way through to lower All Age grades. Their home base is Ray Watt Oval (also the training base for the Newcastle Jets) on Wirra Crescent and you can see them on Saturdays (men) and Sundays (women) throughout the season. Park yourself on a picnic table or on the pavilion balcony for the best view.

Men’s & Women’s Hockey The Seapigs are the biggest hockey clubs in the Newcastle Hockey Competition and have a long and proud history of over 50 years. With no hockey facility on campus, you can make the short trip to Broadmeadow to see them on the turf. Receiving vibrant support from each other’s clubs, keep an eye out for Ladies’ Day and Gentlemen’s Day - they are not to be missed!

Netball Seven university teams will be playing Saturdays at Newcastle Netball (National Park), with some teams also organised in The Forum’s social netball comps. For more information visit: www.unisport.com.au/nusport

FIVE TIPS: To Improve Your Resume Forget templates, subheadings and the dull fundamentals – Georgina Bridger discusses five easy ways to spruce up your résumé.

1Clean it up

You may have had an internship at Goldman Sachs, volunteered at ABC or sailed around the world, but none of this matters if your résumé looks as cluttered as an 80-yearold hoarder’s house. It is essential to include the facts but you must keep your résumé clean. Employers shouldn’t have to sieve through years’ worth of mementos and memories to find the information that is relevant. One way to eliminate clutter is to use bullet points to convey information simply and orderly.

2You’re not basic

The humble résumé is like a Tinder profile for employers. You may think you look like the perfect candidate in person, so make sure your résumé reflects that. Think outside the box and show off your unique creativity, incorporating graphic design, colour and avoiding the basic template. Tailor your application to the industry you’re applying to stand out, but don’t let the design detract from the information. Don’t let employers swipe left!

3Can I get your details?

Give employers actual numbers to show exactly how often you interned at a location or how many charity events you planned. Make sure to include all the specifics about what you did and include the responsibilities you had. In the words of Ron Burgundy, “I don’t know how to put this, but I’m kind of a big deal” – so let employers know.

You are a SUPERSTAR! *wave hands dramatically* You may feel like a hustler when you dance to old 90s tracks in your bedroom, but make sure to show others that you’re the superstar. List the qualities that make you the strongest candidate and stand out against the rest. One way to do this is through the language you use. Use relevant, powerful verbs to demonstrate that you, like Queen B, wake up FLAWLESS.

“In the words of Ron Burgundy, “I don’t know how to put this, but I’m kind of a big deal” – so let employers know.”

5SEEK HELP

If you feel like a deer in the headlights, you are definitely not alone. Why not bring someone else in on this daunting task? You can ask professionals for advice by visiting the university’s career service. For more information on the career services offered by the University of Newcastle, visit: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/current-students/support/ careers-jobs-and-your-future

6 | Yak Magazine April 2015

Go Back to Where I Came From

April 2015

Isabella Batkovic talks all things great about Kuwait with international student, Ahmad Mohammad

In 2010, Ahmad Mohammad left Kuwait to pursue a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Radiation Therapy) at the University of Newcastle. Five years on, he has become very fond of his Australian home. “What I love about this country is the people, especially university students, and my friends who come from different cultural backgrounds,” Ahmad said. However, the Kuwaiti student says he looks forward to visiting his birthplace again, urging travellers to make a stop at his unique and diverse country filled with many interesting sights, traditions, flavours and hobbies. Ahmad shared his top five things to do for first time travellers: 1. Visit Kuwait Towers - deemed a landmark and symbol of modern Kuwait. 2. For those interested in modern and ancient history, the islands of Kuwait, specifically the famous Failaka Island, offer interesting sights and landscapes. 3. For the shopaholics, The Avenues and 360 Mall shopping centres are the places to see and be seen!

4. Visit the luxurious Khiran Resort. 5. Take a walk past Liberation Tower, the second tallest structure in the country. It looks spectacular at night with the lights on. When asked for an interesting fact about Kuwait, Ahmad provided a very fascinating example. “(The Government) helps single men get married by giving them some money for the engagement and the wedding,” said Ahmad. When he isn’t playing or watching football, his favourite past time, he loves to eat traditional, home style Kuwaiti food. “My favourite place to eat in Kuwait is Beit Dickson Restaurant, which cooks food similar to home,” he said. With delicious foods to be devoured and hundreds of unique sites to be seen, Kuwait seems to be quite the special holiday destination. Ahmad is excited to visit his friends back home soon, and can’t speak highly enough of his country. There really is no place like home. Designed by Mia Engel

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Yak Magazine April 2015 | 7

Bronte Hoy discovers the on-campus wonders of the self-propelled commute. It’s Monday morning and you’re stuck in some late-to-your-firsttute traffic that’s only just creeping towards campus. In your already nervous state, you notice a cyclist sail by the line of cars and you start to get a little jealous… too jealous. Think biking to university is off the cards for you? NUBUG is here to tell you to think again. NUBUG (Newcastle University Bike Users Group) is an on-campus club that’s open to all students and encourages everyone to get on their bikes and ride, not just to uni, but around town in general. Perks include great exercise, reduced traffic wait time and preservation of the environment, the benefits to cycling are seemingly endless.

According to long-time NUBUG member Joseph Dusta it’s a pastime worth considering. “Cycling’s the deal,” Joseph said. “It takes me 24 minutes to get here from town passing a lot of banked up traffic.”

“…the benefits to cycling are seemingly endless.” The mechatronics engineering student manned the NUBUG stall at O-week and drew around three hundred new members (this might be because the stall featured a blender powered by a bike – yes, cycling is that awesome). There’s always room for new members though.

as bike workshops where riders can have their bikes serviced. If the on-campus facilities aren’t enough, members can participate in regular social rides about Newcastle and attend the occasional barbeque, and let’s face it – nobody can refuse a good sausage sizzle! New members can join NUBUG at the bike hubs or either student services building on campus.

Incoming, current and future members have a lot to look forward to with NUBUG. Members and non-members have access to the bike hubs outside the student services buildings on both the Shortland and Hunter sides, as well

Clubs Societies

BOOTING YOUR BRAIN-DEAD SELF:getting SarahaIuliano you as how Isabella Batkovic explains why pap testtells is as easy pieto boot-up if you’re brain-dead If your words can register this sentence: clap your hands. April is the point in first semester where assignments pile up, eyes glaze over and we fall victim to ‘paralysis by analysis’.

“Sleep is essential to storing and recalling information, so while you’re in the foetal position mid-assignment meltdown, rest your eyes.” Whether you’ve stumbled across this article, panicking before or after the mid-semester break grog & grub fest, Yak’s got your back with this fact; taking time off strenuous tasks improves brain activity levels. Idling on assignments will aid an idle mind, so give your brain-dead self the boot! Without further adieu, we spout a number of methods to ensure you don’t derp your time - or your grades - away this semester.

Study something else! A recent Mayo Clinic study in the US, like many before it, shows regular education and hobbies in the middle of life slowed

health

the decline of brain function (matureaged students, you’ve got the right idea). For those of use who are only a quarter of the way through our lifespan, indulge in your hobbies. Why not try adding to your CV and cultural awareness by learning a new language? Or improve your communication skills by writing a blog? Or take up a new sport to release sweet stress-relieving endorphins when you sweat?’

Napping’s not just for pre-schoolers Those students you LOL at for napping during lectures are actually onto something; power naps may boost brain activity. Sleep is essential for storing and recalling information, so while you’re in the foetal position during another mid-assignment meltdown, rest your eyes. (This is totally a case for napping stations to be installed on campus).

Live offline Our lives are largely screen-mediated, meaning we multi-task even when relaxing. Allowing your brain to reach ‘default mode’ – like down time in an MRI – increases brain activity. Go for a walk in a natural spot to unwind, consciously and subconsciously.

Download a brain game app If your device is fused to your body, free mobile apps like Peak allow you to improve on your brain function with games. If you’re a regular nerd and want to check how your language, memory or problem-solving skills are doing, you can track them in the program.

8 | Yak Magazine April 2015

PHD

Analysing political language within federal election speeches to understand how this influences racism within Australia Renae Burgess speaks volumes of Brooke Gizzi-Stewarts thesis on racism and federal election speeches.

It cannot be argued that racism within our society is dead. In fact, in many ways it is still thriving, but there are great efforts being made to put an end to it. One of these attempts is a key part of the PhD thesis undertaken by Brooke Gizzi-Stewart, a current politics tutor at UON. Her thesis strives to understand how political language can influence identity and racism within our country and analyse how it can be changed. “Language inherently constructs identity,” Brooke said when asked about her thesis. “The way a politician addresses issues like minorities, power imbalances, race and money within a speech affects viewers and voter opinions.” Within her 100,000 word essay, Brooke will address how, within a multicultural society, racism is still rife, and how political language can inadvertently encourage it. This objective has her examining the influence of persuasive rhetoric within political speeches, particularly election campaigns, from transcripts dating from 1901 through to 2013.

analysis, Brooke runs each speech through a computer software program that identifies how many times words such as “race”, “immigration”, and “nations” are mentioned, which allow issues to be put into perspective and act as significant

“People so often look at language and don’t think it holds much importance. Language communicates power.” Brooke hopes to educate people and politicians of the importance of language, change the way it is used within a political sphere, and hopefully make an impact in breaking the cycle of taught racism within Australia. “I find value in it,” Brooke admits. “No one else is studying anything like this. I’m filling a niche.” Ideally, Brooke would like to see her research create a different perspective within school education, and cause courses and curriculums to become more open about both the influence of language and racism.

“People so often look at language and don’t think it holds much importance. Language communicates power.” As well as her methodologies of critical discourse and rhetorical Designed by Mia Engel

f o e f i L e h t n i A Day Vanessa O’Neill

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 9

fe of Yourimbah’s li e th t h g li to s g i brin Neha Lalchandan r job more er ic ff O s rks with makes he ie wo a it ss iv ne ct Va A r am e. te io Sen The wonder ful with are awesom he people I work e it an eventful

. “T e go to mak just the daily grind rk makes the Yourimbah is on th pool, trivia than ith W o my job. Team wo s. With a new look, int pu e m ttl ca se t e as m d Co l lpe ra t you also he nt ey Ce e Th at th ganising things, bu eap eats or ch at en od year for students ev go d an ry s ve ay ” dream work! I’m urs, Thirsty Thursd d with worked in the past. comps, happy ho tell you what has and be entertaine fit to le ne be op w pe no ed ll ne wi nts how nt in the café, stude at the end, seeing urimbah- the stude and sitting down s organised by Yo ts itie en tiv ev t, ac en ing ly er nn ek diff ru we do “I enjoy all the at I can selves, thinking wh s. em pu th m th ca ed wi joy on es n en nc tio ne rie ever yo associa y expe rnt, and sharing m nge of exciting a fun vibe and a ra ing upon what I lea ct te fle ea re cr id. to sa s e pe sh ,” ho nt officers Yourimbah of the heroes lleagues and stude ssa O’Neill is one co ne y Va m s. pu m e ca th for activities on are being planned using things that usic M of r behind all the am elo ch a studied a Ba ss ne Va s. nt de Ourimbah stu and completed ent management ev to on ed ov m ed events and before she s. She has organis es sin Bu ic us M of ding hand of a Diploma s the assistant lea wa d an s at nd ba gigs for rock ves it was here th ts. Vanessa belie en Ev d an ts ile ke wh ar s Eclectic M anagement. “It wa r love for event m ge sta e th ing she discovered he nis I enjoyed orga at th d se ali re I at studying th e said. on the stage,” sh more than being s; e started my studie get involved in th for a bank when I ing rk tive wo o ea cr als e s students hoping to th wa to th “I e wi e vic , m ad ds ar ide a’s ov bo ss e pr ne Va of the notic ! But it did not pus is to take note e moved brilliant company m sh ca e at of th e’r r e te “W sid Af l p. ap id. cia so Yourimbah g for,” she sa updates and the ciations in outlet I was lookin ok so bo ! as ce t on Fa en , ing rs inm go ste rta po d what’s different ente at’s happening an g - she did on to working for ays advertising wh ions and marketin ot alw om pr u just have to be , Yo . ing nd nn ll always be arou management, pla wi s ing th ing cit Ex it all. es in hand, aware,” she said. nc rie pe ex d an semester! Stay opportunities t en er As diff e h. in Ourimbah this es ba th on im ur ing Yo go r With all s fo ar r ap ce he Offi There’ll be mer Party and St e Senior Activities week for the End of Sum t st fir ou e k th Vanessa is now th loo k, d s, ee an W itie te Go le activ up to da r the third day of live music, enjoyab she packs up af te along with regular s it has been an all y ve Da lie s ur name. be ar yo e W ll sh , ca ll ek wi O-we e things that or m y an of university af ter m d an free BBQs round success.

t I enjoyed a th d e s li a e r I “ stage e th g in is n a g r o g on more than bein the stage ”

g events in n n u r y jo n e I “ at the n w o d g n ti t si and w everyone o h g in e e s , d n e lves ” enjoyed themse

DJ got ever yone e me happy. The ak m y e. da to e lik s “Day g a phenomenal vib ome music, creatin es aw free e a , th th ies wi eb going get some fre around the stalls, t ge t,” to t ou go ab ne all is yo Ever Yourimbah in and learn what n joi to t go d an BBQ she said. university life fun tive work to make uc od pr of ys da laxing. She likes Af ter busy her own ways of re s ha a ss ne Va s, for student , play her piano of Sauvignon blanc ss gla a ve ha , e feedback she to sit down rtantly, evaluate th po im d, an e tim to itch off. That’s from time y brain doesn’t sw “M y. da e t th g rin received du still thinking abou am at home, I am I n he W e. I at w er ho op d just how I do to improve? An orrow. What I can what I can do tom y?” she said. things better toda could have done Designed by Mia Engel

10 | Yak Magazine April 2015

BRONZED & DANGEROUS Bridget Gunn sheds light on the dangers of the new and unregulated ‘Barbie doll drug’, Melanotan. The idea of having tanned skin without burning on the beach or continually applying a new coat of fake tan is appealing to many young Australians. Melanotan, a newly developed and potentially dangerous injection, promises just this. Users only have to inject themselves with a synthetic compound to achieve a dark, natural tan. There have been no long-term clinical trials conducted on Melanotan and it is currently illegal to purchase in Australia. It’s untested, unregulated and, as a result, the full extent of its side effects are unknown. It does, however, deliver results in mere weeks, with a notable darkening of the skin. It is believed that thousands of Australians are ordering the drug online, despite the risks posed by its use. Users also bear the risk of incurring a $170,000 fine and 12 months’ imprisonment if caught importing the drug without the consent of a doctor. According to Hannah*, who has been using Melanotan regularly for a number of months, a shot of the drug can cost less than $10. “I was so frustrated that I had to spend so much time trying to get a good tan, so I’m really happy that [Melanotan] seems to work so well for me,” Hannah said. “It’s been about two months and I’m already so much darker than I used to be.” “The prospect of getting cancer or something from the drugs worries me a bit. I haven’t told my mum that I’m using it, because I know it will just scare her,” she said.

The chemicals used in Melanotan resemble melanocyte-stimulating hormones, which stimulate melanin production. Melanin is a pigment found naturally in the skin that gives the skin its colour. The darker a person’s skin is, the more melanin they have in their cells. These facts raise the following questions: could Melanotan cause abnormalities in melanin production cells in the long run, and potentially create an increased risk of skin cancer such as melanoma?

‘ ‘ -----------------------------------------------

MELANOTAN CAN LEAD TO THE

DEVELOPMENT OF NEW MOLES, THE

DARKENING OF

EXISTING MOLES, AND

WHITE PATCHES ON THE SKIN ----------------------------------------------- ‘ ‘ According to the Callaghan Campus pharmacist Stuart Shortland there are rigorous testing procedures for medically approved drugs in Australia. It can be incredibly dangerous to use something that hasn’t been properly tested. “If a drug is not approved under the Therapeutic Goods Act, I definitely can’t recommend it,” he said. Dr Carolyn Hackworthy from UON’s medical centre believes the short-term side-effects of Melanotan, including nausea and skin pigmentation, are concerning. However, it is the long-term side effects that are most worrying.

“Melanotan can lead to the development of new moles, the darkening of existing moles, and white patches on the skin,” Dr Hackworthy said. “There are regulations on drugs for a good reason, to protect the public. It takes many years to learn the full extent of possible side effects.” There are also other dangers associated with purchasing drugs online, she explains, as it is impossible to tell if there has been any contamination or addition of impurities. “As the drug isn’t legally available and it must be purchased over the Internet, you really have no idea what you are getting,” she said. A number of body-building forums endorse Melanotan as a safe, easy and cheap alternative for building a tan, as the drug costs approximately $70 (plus postage) for a vial and is easy to purchase from a number of sites online. It also has the side effect of causing prolonged erections and increasing the user’s sex drive, which is a contributing factor to the attractiveness of the drug among some young adults. Tallying up, the initial cost of the drug is cheap, but health professionals do not know if the drug could cause melanoma and that is a hefty longterm cost. *Name changed for anonymity.

Why not live on-campus? Sleep in Cut out the commute Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fight for a park Get to class on time Stress less

Apply now: newcastle.edu.au/liveoncampus

12 | Yak Magazine April 2015

THE

HUNGER GAMES:

G N I T E I D E M E R EXT s for you to chew on fad t die me tre ex st mo the of me so Sarah Webb rounds up (chewing optional)

Some of them work. Some of them don’t. Some of them are just plain dangerous. And no, I’m not talking about online dating sites. What I’m actually talking about are the extreme diet fads that have become part of our fanatical weight-loss culture. There is no denying it. We now live in an age when ‘Drop five kilos in five days’ is considered a normal headline. But before you decide the world is going to hell in a hand basket, remember this - fad diets aren’t exactly new. Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics Dr Clare Collins believes that ‘wacko’ dietary plans gain followers quickly despite the lack of a scientific base. Ever since an overweight William the Conqueror embarked on his wine-and-spirits-only journey, extreme diets have held an allure. “It’s the promise of instant success that attracts people to fad diets. A fad diet is like cramming for an exam. If you want to be at the top of the class, it’s about being consistent and having some specific weight goals,” Clare said.However, these days dieting is a billion-dollar business.

“There’s a logic-defying category of “diets” that involve no food whatsoever.” Due to the seductive nature of fad dieting, many companies will go to great lengths to make money from people’s insecurities and sadly, some folk have no boundaries in their quest for thinness. Oh, the hunger games we’ve played…

Armed and Hungry The 1970s gave the world a lot to think about: disco, waterbeds, safari suits, and military-themed diets. Two of the most notable diets of the decade consisted of the Israeli Army Diet and the equally daunting Russian Air Force Diet.

The former consisted of eating nothing more than apples for two days, followed by nothing but cheese for two days, then two days of chicken and finally, two days of salad. Clare says the Israeli Army Diet has been around since she was a school kid in the ‘70s. “It’s such a limited food group focus that you’re more likely to die of boredom.” By comparison, the Russian Air Force Diet was more of a calorie-controlled (starvation) diet, with a strange fixation on the use of condiments. In reality, these two diets would render soldiers weak and unmotivated, which is probably why they have no connection whatsoever to the military establishments after which they’re named. However, these military-themed diets were a product of their era. The ‘70s were a time when you could make broad assumptions about other people’s culture and race and apply it to something as important as a diet to help Westerners lose a few kilos.

Down the Hatch? There’s a logic-defying category of ‘diets’ that involve no food whatsoever. One of these involves the fine art of ‘Fletcherising’, named after Victorian Era art dealer Horace Fletcher, who lost weight by chewing his food, but never ingesting it. He must have been a real hit at fancy dinner parties. Clare says if one was to try ‘Fletcherising’, expect no less than your body entering famine or ‘sleep’ mode as it tries to keep you alive, until food finally finds its way into your stomach. Then there is Breatharianism. This movement claims that humans can live on air and sunlight alone. “Breatharianism is simply not possible. My scientific answer: it’s total rubbish,” Clare said. So while a few levitating, shape-shifting gurus may be able to subsist on oxygen and sunshine, what are the chances that we mere mortals are going to be able to pull it off? Slim to none. Fat chance. [Pun intended] The fact that many Breatharians have been hospitalised over the years doesn’t help the cause either.

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 13

Parasitic Rhetoric If deliberately ingesting a dangerous parasite known to cause abdominal pain, nutritional deficiencies and in some cases death sounds a bit extreme, you’d be right to assume such a thing. Without a doubt. The origins of the Tapeworm Diet are unknown, however it’s thought to have been around for at least a century and operates on the premise that if you invite

“What Would Jesus Eat?” an alien entity to set up house in your stomach, it will eat whatever you eat, resulting in significant weight loss. While weight loss is likely to happen, a host is also liable to lose their sanity, as tapeworms can cause serious damage to the central nervous system. Other side effects include brain damage and blindness, so before you go opening that can of worms, think about the consequences.

Adopting the importance of eating a balanced diet of unprocessed foods like fish and vegetables, the Jesus Diet is just the Mediterranean diet reloaded with a little Godliness. Likewise, the Hallelujah Diet is a plant-based regime, involving the consumption of lots of raw fruits and vegetables, as mentioned by passages of Genesis (the Bible’s, not Phil Collins’) and a side serving of daily prayer. Clare says some of the named diets, such as faith diets, can still provide a healthy eating plan. “What you’d be looking for is a lot of plants or lean proteins, but if it’s not lean animal protein then you need your grains, carbs or new trendy ones like quinoa,” she said. While mainstream religions tend to get a bad rap (what with all the fire, brimstone and judgement), these diets are actually based on sensible eating plans and therefore are more likely to result in long-term weight-loss success. Now there’s something to rejoice in!

Holy Intervention When all else fails, some people turn to God, and dieting is no exception. What may seem niche is actually a crowded marketplace, with a variety of faith-based diets competing for the attention of believers. The Jesus Diet and Hallelujah Diet are prime examples of creator-endorsed dieting, but that’s where the similarities end. You may be forgiven for thinking the Jesus Diet involves eating nothing but loaves and fish, however this diet is built on a solid foundation of nutritional advice derived from the bestseller, ‘What Would Jesus Eat?’ This evangelical eating plan gets people to ask themselves one question before eating anything, “Would Jesus eat this?”

m s i n a og

14 | Yak Magazine April 2015

the e s a e rel

hin t i w n boga

BRIDIE O’SHEA EMBRACES HER BUM-BAG AND THE BOGAN LIFESTYLE.

Look a moi. Look at moi, look at moi, look at moi… Now I’ve got one word to say to you. Boganism. Yes. That’s right. Boganism. First of all you’re probably thinking “What in the world is she going on about?” Then secondly, “I know what a bogan is, but what’s with the ‘ism’?” Boganism is more than just an intelligent-sounding word, it’s a philosophy, and it’s a lifestyle. And in this case, also a study. A study about bogans. Griffith University PhD candidate Roz Rowen began the study in 2013, after she realised that there had been little research undertaken to explore the semantic content of Australian English.

“…MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE WILLING TO ACCEPT THEIR HERITAGE AND WAVE THAT BOGAN FLAG HIGH IN THE AIR. OR IN THEIR FRONT YARD. OR OUT THEIR CAR WINDOW.”” Rowen is basically “looking at Australian English and Australian slang words and how in social interaction we use these words.” Australian English is an interesting idea. The fact that we have altered the language of kings and queens which once sounded so proper into something that, well - isn’t, is something I’m undecided that we should be completely proud of. However, there are people like Rowen who believe that Australian’s should embrace the way they speak, as it is our distinctive accents which give us a unique identity, both nationally and internationally. The act of speech is essential to the social world. It determines our interactions and relationships with others. Good ol’ Aussie slang utilises humour, wit and rhymes. Clearly we are a very clever bunch and it’s a pity that it’s not often interpreted that way. If you’ve got on a new outfit and say “I’m lovin’ myself sick in this” to a foreigner, they are most likely going to give you a what-the-hell-are-you-talking-about kind of look (believe me, it happens).

But Rowen is trying to explain that more and more people are willing to accept their heritage and wave that bogan flag high in the air. Or in their front yard. Or out their car window. You know, classic bogan behaviours that we all know and (secretly) love. In her paper, I Took The Mickey But Now I’ll Take The Piss: The Marking of Jocular Mockery in Australian English, Rowen wrote, “Australian English has evolved as a language in which the ability to relate both socially and individually comes from a universal understanding of the ways in which individuals are able to make fun or take the piss in social interactions.” Rowen went on to say that this ‘jocular mockery’ is an approach that allows for a conversational joking relationship. And another classic trait is that Aussies are born with the impulse to abbreviate as many words as they possibly can. If there was a global gameshow for how many abbreviations you could make in one sentence, the flashing WINNER sign would be in Australia’s corner. Or should I say “Straya”? Instead of asking “Can you please cook me another sausage on the barbeque?” we’re more likely to hear, “Oi mate, chuck us a snag on the barbie, would ya?” You can try to pin this down to laziness, culture, or a mixture of both, but according to the team from the online blog Things Bogans Like, “The bogan today defies income, class, race, creed, gender and logic. The bogan is defined by what it does, what it says and, most importantly, what it buys.” Today’s bogan is an enigma. They’re everywhere and nowhere all at once, because according to Rowen, it is the social interactions and conversational tones which classify people as bogans to others.

“INSTEAD OF ASKING “CAN YOU PLEASE COOK ME ANOTHER SAUSAGE ON THE BARBEQUE?” WE’RE MORE LIKELY TO HEAR, “OI MATE, CHUCK US A SNAG ON THE BARBIE, WOULD YA?” And as much as some might like to deny it, the reality is, everyone is a little bit bogan, and little bogans are everywhere. Now before you start playing the bogan blame, let’s look closer at Australian English.

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 15

Our language is an extension of our core values of the Australian character. And the Australian character is typically regarded as a laidback, easy-going kind of person. Why shouldn’t our language reflect that? Rowen’s study aims to explain the “cultural and language diversities that may provide insight into bridging language and cultural barriers across Englishes”. And it’ll be interesting to see the outcome of this study- whether the speech of a particular community can be linked with the interaction of meaning and culture in order to characterise people. But it is clear that the term “Bogan” has different connotations in different contexts. So whether you’re on holiday in Bonnie Doon relishing the serenity, or you’re just waitin’ for a mate, don’t worry about correcting your speech for those who turn their noses up. Yeah, nah. We’re all bogans to someone, may as well embrace it.

WHICH BOGAN ARE YOU? THE BATTLER BOGAN THEY ARE: Practical, inventive, patriotic, like a VB (or 12). WEARS: Flannels, thongs, stubbies; likely to have Australian flag memorabilia; a beard or goatee is common, as is a mullet or ponytail. BOGAN ICONS: The Castle, Merv Hughes, Russell Coight.

THE RACIST BOGAN THEY ARE: Anti-immigration, ultra-patriotic, like to put bumper stickers on cars that say “Get lost. We’re full”, like to forget that 99.8% of them probably are descendants of immigrants. WEARS: mildly to overly racist t-shirts, tracksuit pants, Dickies brand, more Australian flags, colourful sleeve tattoos. BOGAN ICONS: Pauline Hanson’s Anti-Immigration Policy

THE SHAZZA ‘N’ DAZZA BOGAN THEY ARE: Endearing, loud, like to host BBQs, likes tinnies (boats and beers collectively). WEARS: Footy shorts, skinny jeans, leggings, ugg boots, a Southern Cross or a lower back tattoo is common, as are hair streaks and acrylic nails. BOGAN ICONS: Kath and Kim, Housos.

THE CASHED-UP BOGAN THEY ARE: Fly-in-fly-out workers, professionals, love water-skiing, can be difficult to spot as the nature of the cashed-up bogan can vary depending on occupation. WEARS: Designer clothing, designer handbags, designer sunglasses, designer EVERYTHING. BOGAN ICONS: Ja’mie King, Lara Bingle, Shane Warne, Lleyton Hewitt.

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TECH-SAVVY, BUT ARE WE STILL TECH-SOCIAL? ' Were Facebook friends, but are we really connected? Isabella Batkovic investigates social media. Plato once complained that the written word would lead to memory loss; “If men learn this, it will implant forgetfulness in their souls; they will cease to exercise memory because they rely on that which is written.” Arguments about the negative impacts of human progression and technological advancements like these have persisted for thousands of years. Whether it’s concerns about the invention of radio or the introduction of televisions into the home, we will always question the effects of what is new and unknown. In the 21st century, social media is in the spotlight. In an era characterised by the use of platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, the nature of communication has transformed markedly: -The word “Apple” does not refer to a certain red fruit anymore. -It is not uncommon to see people out for a meal conversing via Facebook messenger, even when seated directly across from one another. -Social media users are unashamedly outspoken about sitting on a toilet with a laptop in one hand and a smart phone in the other. -Posting “hey how r u?” followed by an emoji on someone’s Facebook wall seems to be more common than initiating a phone conversation. Considering all these convenient, hilarious, somewhat ridiculous (and unhygienic) social behaviours, have we lost the “Art of Conversation”? According to Lecturer and Researcher in Communication and Media, Janet Fulton, this is not the case.

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“While we may text, post on social media, or constantly check our phones while in the company of others, there is still conversation. What is the “Art of Conversation”? There are people who converse really well and others who are shy or may not want to talk for some reason... But, who knows? Maybe we won’t have verbal conversations in the future,” the University of Newcastle scholar remarked. If the “Art of Conversation” is still alive and kicking, why do so many opt for the online alternative?

“How many times have you sent a message on Facebook so you wouldn’t have to chat to someone on the phone?” The social media sphere has a lot to offer users when it comes to inclusivity and practicality. Mediums such as Facebook and Twitter have been praised for allowing many to communicate more comfortably and openly, thus making the sites popular social destinations. Senior Speech Pathologist Lora Thiele says these platforms may assist those who ordinarily would not have a voice to speak up and give his/her opinion. Unlike a face-to-face conversation, there is some anonymity and no immediate consequence in the online world. “Social media sites have given many isolated people a peer group and a voice, which may encourage more conversation in their lives than ever before. “Technology just increases connections...and helps us to converse with others...We still socialise with people regardless of technology - at the local shops, at work, at schools, at family gatherings,” said Mrs Thiele. However, has the quality of face-to-face interactions been compromised? Without a doubt, the partnership of social media and smart phones has hindered many of our communication skills. Many Facebook users have abandoned talking on the telephone, instead opting for the less demanding world of social media. Janet questions, “How many times have you sent a message on Facebook so you wouldn’t have to chat to someone on the phone?”. This alters the way we are able to respond to conflicts and the emotions of others in real life situations.

“Human beings are social creatures. Social media might change things a little in terms of how we communicate, but we still need to see each other,” she said. With this being said, some recommendations have been made concerning this generation of social media enthusiasts. Technology allows people to communicate with a global audience and it gives us opportunities to interact with others who we may not ordinarily meet. Like all things in life, this needs to be part of a balanced approach to social interactions, which is face-to-face correspondence in groups, with peers and family. “Have a balance of things in your life. Have friends and make sure you still see people - go shopping, join clubs... The effects of technology won’t cost us too much if we control it, rather than letting it control us,” Kim said. Balance and control are the two most important things when it comes to the use of social media. Limiting the amount of hours spent on smart phones and laptops will encourage this generation to actually call friends and organise outings, rather than sitting in a dim room, lit up only by the brightness of a phone screen. Where does this leave us in relation to technology and social inadequacy?

“Social media users are unashamedly outspoken about sitting on a toilet with a laptop in one hand and a smart phone in the other.” It seems Facebook has not made us incapable of speaking face-to-face, but rather changed the structure and quality of communicative exchange. We seem to be so inextricably in-the-know about others’ lives due to social media that the nature of friendship can take many different forms. But are we more or less connected than ever before? The answer to this question is so complicated, that perhaps Senior Speech Pathologist Lora Thiele puts it best. “Human interactions are at the forefront of our basic needs. Technology should not replace it,” she said. If Plato could see us now, he would be turning in his grave.

After staring at a screen for over eight hours a day, many people find it difficult to maintain a reasonable level of eye contact with the person they are speaking with. Without an array of emojis at hand, conversations can quickly turn stagnant. Clinical Psychologist Kim Evans believes we need to be conscious of doing things with people and ensuring we make time for face-to-face interaction. Some people are so engrossed with technological gadgets that they can become completely unaware of what is happening around them. Even with all these negative factors surrounding the face-to-face conversation, Mrs Evans still chooses to remain optimistic when it comes to how we interact. Designed by Breanna Yates

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 19

DO THE RIGHT THING Melissa Wilson explores the world of making ethical life choices – the pressure, the satisfaction and often, the guilt. Making ethical life choices and living consciously isn’t a new concept, but it’s arguably one that is thrown in our faces a lot during our years at university. It’s a time of self-discovery and introspective thought. People of all ages find themselves equipped with a fresh determination to make their mark on the world. Before you know it, you find yourself pulled in many directions. “Go vegan!” “Sign up to our charity to make direct debit monthly donations!” “Nah man, having hot showers is totally for powersapping peasants, go cool.” You get my point.

“

Of course, being mindful of the mark you’re making on the world is never a bad thing.

”

However, we’re often bombarded with information about the unethical nature of our daily practices and it’s then that the guilt sets in.

People make ethical choices in life for multiple reasons, usually for personally gratification or as a means to avoid guilt. Individuals will often lend themselves to a cause that has directly affected them or simply because they wants to see a prescribed outcome around an issue. UON Bachelor of Science Earth Science major and environment nut Alisa Demertzi believes living ethically is as simple as taking active steps to be less of an asshole. “It’s impossible to be totally ethical but I suppose it’s making each reasonable effort you can make to live an ethical life.” Start with making small efforts, like taking the bus to work, make a dietary change or actively avoiding sexist and racist behaviour. Alisa said that making ethical changes that interest you is the most effective way to encourage a flow-on effect to those around

you. A knee-jerk charity donation to avoid the guilt of refusal still makes a difference, but it’s more worthwhile to engage in something you feel passionate about to ensure long-term change. This brings me back to the incidents that make my eye twitch and inevitably drove me to write this article in the first place; the people that approach you on the street asking to sign up to make regular donations. I asked myself why I felt annoyed and tracked down one of those ‘people’ in search of the answers. Gemma Whittington works for a marketing and sales company that boasts a range of clients from The Heart Foundation, Surf Life Saving and The Smith Family - many of the charities that stop you on the street or knock on your door. Gemma makes it clear that charities will not sign up anyone under the age of 25 – an interesting fact for a 22-year-old who is frequently asked for ID at the bottle shop and is approached a lot by charities. This is because charities want long-term donators with stable bank accounts (apparently this happens at age 25).

“

A single person clapping can’t make a round of applause, just like you can’t be expected to save the world on your own. (But I hear marinated tofu does taste pretty good!)

”

Gemma explains that we shouldn’t feel bad for cutting her short when she’s giving her spiel as to why we should donate. “Later in life when you have the means, you can donate then.” It’s also a commission-based job, and a lot of the employees are just students trying to earn and save like the rest of us. So if, like me, you’re a few years short of 25 and thus have the excuse to not sign up, I encourage you to use this time to explore the world of ethical living that works comfortably within your interests and capabilities.

20 | Yak Magazine April 2015

Aisling Philippa investigates how dealing with a travel agent can affect your travel experience. “When I went to visit my sister in Japan a few years ago, she had booked us into a hotel with the help of her Japanese friend. We weren’t expecting anything fancy, but we were certainly surprised when we got there. After travelling by taxi out of the city into the middle of nowhere, we were shown to our rooms. Upon entering, we were greeted by mood music, dim lighting and an underwear vending machine. We had booked into a love hotel. Some of the key features in the room included a massage chair, free condoms . . . not many people can say they have spent a night in a love hotel (which is usually used for married couples who need a getaway from the kids) with their family.”

needs is that for the aspiring traveler, you’re essentially ensuring you’ve got someone on your side that already has considerable experience and training to put together a detailed travel itinerary.

While not everyone can say that they have had the same experience as this particular student, the reality is that one of the bigger questions that needs to be answered before booking a trip overseas is: to travel agent, or not to travel agent?

Unfortunately, it seems that horror love hotel stories – or, at least, botched travel plans – aren’t all that uncommon for travel agents.

After all, sometimes it can be handy to avoid the random love hotel visit in the middle of a family getaway. It can’t be denied that there is a certain sense of freedom with being able to organise your own journey overseas. After all, isn’t travel all about living out of a suitcase, experiencing the open road, taking each day as it comes, and making new and unusual friends along the way? That being said, sometimes it’s easier to have an experienced partner to help with putting together the minor details. Especially when there are so many different types of options for the would-be traveller. “You never know what kind of travel plans people will walk in the door with. Spring break in NZ, gap years in Europe, volunteering in Africa or round the world, every traveler is unique,” said Jessie, STA store manager for Newcastle University. The advantage to liaising with a travel agent for any overseas

“We all undergo a two week intensive training course down in Sydney. This is where we get a crash course in everything travel [sic]. It’s like learning another language as you learn to use the reservations systems, hone customer service skills, meet with the reps of companies and various people within the company. Then it’s back in store to put everything into practice!” Jessie said.

“We had booked a love hotel”

“We ‘fix’ travel plans like this all the time. Having traveled quite a lot ourselves, we have the realistic idea of what it entails as well as what to be prepared for, something is bound to go wrong somewhere along the road! But that’s what we are here for; to help you out before you go, and while you are away in case something goes wrong.” At the end of the day, it would be a little misguided to think that every single trip goes according to plan. Murphy’s Law is one of the certainties of traveling; the most important thing is to ensure your own safety. And what’s Jessie’s advice when it comes to safety while traveling? “I find that the safest way to travel is with a tour. Whether it be a Contiki or small group adventure like G Adventures, there is power (and security) in numbers! You’ll find that especially in a country where English is not widely spoken that having a local guide to help you get around, use money, eat, etc is invaluable,” Jessie said.

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Things You Probably Didn’t Know Were Illegal Renae Burgess shows you how to avoid the ‘cuffs. There are a few undeniable truths about life; wearing sunglasses at night makes you look like a tool, fire is pure magic and committing illegal activities is dumb, because they will often cost you – in the form of a fine. What’s even dumber, however, is being caught doing something illegal that you didn’t even know was illegal. To save you from a lifetime’s worth of humiliation that would accompany such an occurrence, here is a handy list you can follow to keep your life on the straight and narrow:

Bicycle Laws You’ve Probably Already Broken • So you can ride your bike no-hands style and think you’re the coolest kid around? That’s not what a $67 fine is going to tell you. • Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you’re just going to have to get out there on that road and risk your life riding amongst the cars. If you’re over the age of 12, the footpath is not yours anymore. • Fit and fasten your damn helmet straps. Do you have a death / debt wish?

Vehicle Laws You’ve Probably Already Broken • DO NOT leave your car keys in an unattended vehicle, dummy. First of all, I’m sure you don’t want it stolen. Secondly, it’s illegal. This is mere speculation, but I’m sure it’s because the cops don’t want to spend two hours chasing down a damaged beyond repair Sedan after some 14-year-old punk takes it for a joy ride. • Love beeping your horn at your friends when you drive past to watch them jump ten feet in the air? Sorry to spoil your fun, but the unnecessary use of a car’s horn or warning device can cost you $304. • On a road trip, listening to the radio and you want to let your hand ride the air currents outside your window? You guessed it! Having a part of your body outside the window or door of a moving vehicle will cost you roughly a week’s rent. • Run to that one parent of yours that always used to smoke in the car with you in the passenger seat and tell them it’s gaol time! Smoking in a vehicle in the presence of someone under 16-years-old is a big, fat, $250 no-no. • Don’t think it’s okay to grab your phone and shoot off a quick text message while waiting at a red light. Unless your car is completely turned off and legally parked, the law says you’re not allowed to touch that cellular device.

General Laws You’ve Probably Already Broken • “On your left!” It’s illegal to walk on the right-hand side of a footpath. • Bridges are for walking, not climbing. If caught climbing on any part of a bridge, say goodbye to $690. • Think it’s a great idea to go out to a pub with your mates and get blind drunk after a long week? Slow down on your beer intake and breathe for a second, friend. Being drunk on the premises of a licensed establishment makes you a criminal. • I don’t know how many of you guys and girls get the opportunity, but conspiring with certain pirates is illegal, just saying... • You know that one neighbour who doesn’t know how to lock their Internet? Sorry folks, but connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi is totally against the law. • Ever felt the need to roam the streets wearing black clothes, felt shoes and black shoe polish on your face? Thought about donning last year’s Halloween costume in July? Under the Vagrancy Act of Australia, your cat burglar outfit or grim reaper get-up means that without the excuse of the date being the 31st of October, your outfit is illegal. As it should be. Shoe polish on your face is so last century.

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 23

Books VS E-Books

Thomas Hamilton

“Pro Books”

There’s nothing better than finding that perfect book filled with amazing characters to meet, new worlds to explore and ideas to be exposed to. I admit that my reading habits have decreased slightly since taking on the commitment known as university, but this has made me even more appreciative when I am able to lose myself in a good book.

“There’s no better feeling than the weight of a book in my bag, the feel of paper and the simple joy of trawling through a bookstore or library.” And by book I mean a hardbound copy or paperback. Reading is about more than just the sensation of a good narrative, but also holding an actual book made from ink and paper in your hand and not just a PDF file on a tablet. I’m not a total Luddite, even though I am probably the only 20-year-old in the Western world to still use a Nokia instead of an iPhone or other brand equivalent. However, there’s something aberrant to my inner bookworm/ bibliophile about trading in my beloved books born from paper and ink for a hard cold shiny iPad or Kindle. For me, the pleasure of reading from a real book is both a tactile and aesthetic experience. I love waking up to my room with shelves overflowing with some of my most valued possessions. There’s no better feeling than the weight of a book in my bag, the feel of paper and the simple joy of trawling through a bookstore or library. Can you get that with an E-Reader? I think not. So maybe we are heading even further into the Digital Age, but for me there are some experiences that are irreplaceable, such as the joy of reading a book that will never go out of style.

Renae Burgess

“Pro E-Books” Those of us who love reading know that to carry heavy tomes or attempt to bring an entire library on a long trip is something of a fool’s endeavour. The answer to this irksome issue (and many others)? E-books, e-readers, Kindles; magic of the digital age! Don’t get me wrong, I will always be a die-hard paperback lover myself, but even I can see the appeal of these bad boys. Allow me to enlighten you. Going on a plane trip over 24 hours long and need multiple books to get you from one end of hell to the other? Let’s face it, you really need that bit of extra space in your carry-on for other important necessities (like smuggled chocolate bars), so you can’t be bringing upwards of three thick novels with you. An e-reader is your own library in a slim, notebook-sized bundle! Want to read in the middle of the night, but don’t want to wake your bed partner with a lamp? E-readers have backlit screens. You can also adjust the font size and contrast that will stop you from straining your already poor eyesight. Ever had an author describe an event as ‘propitious’ and felt completely baffled? Built-in dictionaries will help you with painful prose.

“An e-reader is your own library in a slim, notebook-sized bundle!” And finally, sick of the guy sitting beside you at the bus stop giving you judgemental eyebrows because the cover of your book either screams ‘CHILDISH FANTASY LOVE TRIANGLE’ or ‘WASHBOARD ABS WITH HANDCUFFS’? Well guess what? E-readers don’t have covers, so you’ve got plenty of blank space to adorn with stickers telling that nosy bastard to mind his own business while you read on.

Patriots Unearthed, But AuxFIre Rises from the Ashes Maddie Bradford

chats to alternate rock band, Auxfire, and discovers much more about the truth behind The Patriots split…

Cart-wheeling across a main road. Eating a meat pie in a bread roll. Calling up your ex. For most of us, the ideas which spring to mind at 4am after a night out on the town are generally pretty lousy.

an experience had afforded all the boys, and that

“the amount … has given us hope to do the unthinkable, start a new band, Auxfire!”

The same might not be said about Joey Geyer. Indeed, it was in this state that 18-year- old Joey Geyer read ‘Aux Fire’ stencilled on a coal train, and “decided it would make an excellent name for a band”. It wasn’t long before this idea would prove the antithesis of lousy.

While many took to social media to express their devotion to the Patriots, proclaiming that, “Patriots is love, Patriots is life”, the overwhelming response to the news has been positive, despite the departure of Drew-Abell King (who has been replaced by Jackary Clark) and the promise of a completely “unique sound”.

If Geyer’s name sounds familiar, it’s because of the relatively enormous success achieved by Newcastle indie rock band, The Patriots, in which Geyer was the lead singer. Along with Jordan Avellis on guitar, Joseph van Lier on drums and Drew AbellKing on bass, the band released two EPs since forming in 2008, No Means Yes and Quotations.

Indeed, Auxfire have noted that their developing songs are being influenced by Australian bands Violent Soho and Northeast Party House, as well as “90s grunge legends” like Nirvana and The Smashing Pumpkins. Such a combination will seem a far cry from The Patriots’ summery tunes and earthy, youthful lyrics.

of overwhelming support we’ve received

“Though it seemed The Patriots were at a high gigwise, creatively we couldn’t keep writing music that wasn’t where we were ‘at’ anymore.”

And yet, in the midst of all this rebirth, all the continued support and all of the excitement surrounding the formation of Auxfire, one question seems to linger unaddressed; why scrap a band with burgeoning success and start a whole new one from scratch?

As grand finalists in the Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog band competition in 2012, The Patriots went on to appear on the Red Bull Bedroom Jam, and began to develop serious notoriety when they won the Groovin the Moo competition in 2014, opening the Triple J stage at the festival in Maitland.

“We felt that as we’d grown up a lot since the formation of The Patriots, so had our music,” Geyer said. “Though it seemed The Patriots were at a high gig-wise, creatively we couldn’t keep writing music that wasn’t where we were ‘at’ anymore.”

With music likened to that of San Cisco, Two Door Cinema Club and The Jungle Giants, a string of accolades under their belt and killer reviews from recognisable names likes Alex Dyson and Dom Alessio, The Patriots seemed a force to be reckoned with. As such, the band’s decision to break up in February this year was met with complete shock and much sadness from fans.

Their reasoning is both profound and honest, beyond what you’d expect from a bunch of teenage boys. Although considering they can capitalise on drunken 4am walks while the rest of us are scoffing meat pies, this is fairly unsurprising. Auxfire’ debut single ‘Gabriella’ was released 11th March. Head to their Facebook page for more details.

In a statement released via Facebook, The Patriots announced that after half a year of planning, “the time has come to end the band.” The statement went on to describe the opportunities such

Photography: Georgia Swan

Wa t t

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WATCH T HIS SPACE

WATTSPACE HAS MOVED. OPENING AUGUST 2015. NORTHUMBERLAND HOUSE. CORNER OF KING AND AUCKLAND STREET Email: wattspace@newcastle.edu.au Website: www.newcastle.edu.au/community-and-alumni/arts-and-culture/watt-space-gallery Phone: (02) 4921 8733 I Office: (02) 4921 5188 I Facebook: facebook.com/WattSpaceGallery Watt Space Gallery, Northumberland House, Cnr King & Auckland St Newcastle. Open 11am-5pm. Watt Space, the University of Newcastleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s student art gallery, is brought to you by Student Central.

Spa ce

26 | Yak Magazine April 2015

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON Mon

Tues

Wed

Toga Party Bar on the Hill Doors open 7pm

APR 6.

Easter Monday Public Holiday

Newcastle Jets vs Perth Glory 5pm, Hunter Stadium

Michael Franti & Spearhead 7pm, Panthers

Australian Street Rod Federation Nationals

13.

Trimester 1 resumes

14.

15.

The Beards Bar on the Hill Doors open 7:30pm

Thurs

Australian Street Rod Federation Nationals 9am - 6pm Newcastle Harness Racing Club

Semester 1 resumes

21.

Trivia Bar on the Hill 1pm - 2pm

22.

Global STEM Forum Public Lecture 6pm - 9pm Newcastle Museum

28.

29.

Pool Comp 3pm - 6pm Godfrey Tanner Bar

The Olive Tree Markets 9am-3pm Civic Park

Australian Street Rod Federation Nationals 9am - 6pm Newcastle Harness Racing Club

16.

17.

23.

ICC Speech Night 6pm Bar on the Hill

Student Sessions 7pm - 10pm Bar on the Hill

Trivia Bar on the Hill 1pm - 2pm

Good Friday Public Holiday

Ross Noble 8pm, Civic Theatre

Pool Comp 3pm - 6pm Godfrey Tanner Bar

27.

Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls 8pm The Small Ballroom

2015 Graduation Parade Civic Theatre

30.

Student Sessions 7pm - 10pm Bar on the Hill New Professors Talk: Peter Radoll (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education) 6:15pm - 8:30pm Newcastle Museum

Find out more at: www.newcastle.edu.au/current-students

Sun

Trimester 1 & Easter Saturday Semester 1 Recess Public Holiday

10.

Callaghan Graduation Ceremony 10am, 2pm, 6pm The Great Hall

Sat

Medsoc Great Debate 6pm, Bar on the Hill

20.

Fri

Australian Street Rod Federation Nationals

Easter Sunday Public Holiday

11.

12.

18.

19.

24.

25.

26.

Beat Lounge 3pm - 7pm Bar on the Hill

Newcastle Knights vs North Queensland Cowboys 2pm, Hunter Stadium

Callaghan Graduation Ceremony 10am, 2pm, 6pm The Great Hall

Beat Lounge 3pm - 7pm Bar on the Hill

Callaghan Graduation Ceremony 10am, 2pm, 6pm The Great Hall

NewRun Festival of NewRun Festival of Running Running

Newcastle Jets vs Sydney FC 7:45pm Hunter Stadium

Trivia Godfrey Tanner Bar 1pm - 2pm

Anzac Day Public Holiday

Yak Magazine April 2015 | 27

REGULAR ACTIVITIES TUESDAYS

FRIDAYS

CLUBS & SOCIETIES Mondays • Ultimate Frisbee: 7pm - 9pm, Oval 2 or 3 near Forum

Trivia

Test out your trivia skills each week at Bar on the Hill or Godfrey Tanner Bar.

Tuesdays • Toastmasters: 4pm, Language Centre LC205 • Water Polo Social Comp: 7.30pm, Forum Pool

Beat Lounge

Wednesdays • Fencing: 7.30pm - 9.45pm, Forum Studio 2. First night’s free, $5 afterwards • Bible Study: 11am - 1pm, the Clubhouse

Bar on the Hill: 1pm - 2pm, Tuesdays

WEDNESDAYS Pool Comp Pool sharks of Callaghan unite! Free to enter and there are prizes for the winner. 3pm - 5.30pm, Wednesdays Godfrey Tanner Bar

Student Sessions @ Bar on the Hill Your student night starts here with $4 drinks, DJs, free pool and buses into town. From 7pm, Wednesdays Bar on the Hill

Godfrey Tanner Bar: 1pm - 2pm, Fridays

Chill out and enjoy $9 jugs, $7.50 Schnitzel + chips and free lawn games! From 3pm, Fridays Bar on the Hill

ALL WEEK Godfrey Tanner Bar Happy Hour

4pm - 5pm, each weekday of semester

Bar on the Hill Happy Hour

5pm - 6pm, each weekday of semester

THURSDAYS

Thursdays • Bible Study with NUBS: 9-11am, the Clubhouse • Cultural Connections (for international postgrad students): 12noon - 2pm, the Clubhouse • Philosophy at the Pub with the Philosophy Society: 5pm - 7pm, the Clubhouse (23rd) • Chess Tournaments with the Chess Club: 5pm - 7pm, the Clubhouse (2nd, 30th) Fridays • Happy Feet (women only): 4pm - 6pm, the Clubhouse Weekends • Subsidised First Aid Courses for BREAATHE members • Bible Study: 11am - 1pm, the Clubhouse

Games with Godfrey Settle down in the bar and roll the dice for a social board game or two. From 3pm, Thursdays Godfrey Tanner Bar

Saturdays • Novice Rowing: 8am, meet outside Edwards Hall Sundays • Baseball signups: 4pm, Stevenson Park, Mayfield

List your Club or Society Event here!

TOP PICK

The Beards Bar on the Hill - April 15 That’s right, Australia’s premier beard-related band, The Beards, will be returning to play Bar on the Hill on Sunday April 15 for their Strokin’ My Beard tour. Supported by ‘art rock band’ The Stiffys, be sure to check them out, particularly if you have a beard. $25 for UON students, $28 for others, doors open 7:30pm.

Are you on the Executive of a Club or Society? Then submit your events to us for our What’s On section. Just email yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au with your event details.