Yak March 2013 by UON Student Central

F O H T A E R AB R I A H S E R F

out giving ts to Drapht ab a h c g in m e ts. e L Lachie back to studen

T S I L K C E H C 3 1 YOUR 20 The Do’s & Don’ts for the uni year. ES H C A E B N A I NOVOCASTAreRthey some of our best features? ISSUE 13 / MARCH 2013 BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE U

CONTENTS 08

The Best Features are the Beaches

A Rough Drapht

Fiction & Fantasy or Your Next Reality?

2013: What You Need To Know

Unearthed Feature Artist: Snakadaktal

Mass Debate: Who Contributes More to Society?

Cover design by Anneliese Wild

EDITORIAL Emily Steele - Managing Editor Kate Ellis - Deputy Managing Editor Bayden McDonald - Deputy Editor Lachie Leeming - Deputy Editor Richard Baines - Deputy Editor Tanya McGovern - Deputy Editor Anneliese Wild - Graphic Design Lucy McLeod - Promotions and Advertising

CONTRIBUTORS Alex Toscano - Contributing Writer Ben Mitchell - Graphic Design Brittany Turner - Contributing Writer Hannah Sunderland - Graphic Design Jasmin Harrison - Contributing Writer Jessica Rykers - Graphic Design Mathew Barton - Contributing Writer Matthew Hatton - Contributing Writer Pasqualina Perone - Contributing Writer

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 to yakmagazine@newcastle.edu.au.

ADVERTISING For advertising opportunities, contact Lucy at yakmagazine@newcastle.edu.au yakmagazine@newcastle.edu.au

Up & Coming: ‘Etikit

THE USUAL STUFF

04 Yak Online

16 What’s On

05 Campuses: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

21 Places & Spaces

05 Watt Space

29 Clubs & Societies

07 Green U

30 You Can Leave Your Hatton

07 Support U

30 Dickie’s Dilema

10 Academic Profile

31 Vox Pops

23 U-Cinema Movie Reviews

facebook.com/yakmagazine Get your free copy from press-points around campus on Monday, April 1. twitter.com/yakmagazine Yak magazine is a free publication of UoN Services Ltd © 2012. www.uonservices.org.au Printed by PrintCentre on Callaghan Campus.

• Anzac Day celebrations. • Newcastle Train line debate. • Easter chocolate tips. Yak Magazine is published by UoN Services Limited at the University of Newcastle. The views expressed herein are not necessarily the views of UoN Services Limited or the University of Newcastle, unless explicitly stated. UoN Services Limited 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 - March 2013

LETTER FROM

THE EDITOR A WORD FROM OUR MANAGING EDITOR,

EMILY Welcome, welcome to 2013 and a new year at the University of Newcastle. Gone is 2012 and we start the new year ready and willing to cram another year of study into our heads. Yeah, right. No one really wants to say ta ta to holidays and bye bye to freedom but here we are, crossing off a year of study from the list. This year we have an almost brand spanking new Yak team, ready to try our hardest to make the uni days fly by with informative and funny information for all. We endeavour to be just as amazing (would be even better if we were more) than last year’s team. They have handed over the reins in good faith that we would take their baby Yak and continue on with the funny, informative, sometimes silly and interesting articles you have come to love.

THIS MONTH’S BITING QUESTION: “What’s the strangest thing about you?”

MANAGING EDITOR

EMILY STEELE

I’m odd in many ways. But, I do have two toe-nails on the one toe.

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR

KATE ELLIS

I think I’m strange in general. Not creepy strange, but odd enough for strangers in shopping centres to look at you like ‘dude, what?’.

DEPUTY EDITOR - FEATURES

BAYDEN McDONALD

I always walk to the beat of the song I am listening to. If I can’t, I get uneasy and have to remind myself it doesn’t matter.

DEPUTY EDITOR - ENTERTAINMENT & TECHNOLOGY

Our magazine is bigger, so of course, better, and we plan to fill it with exactly what you need to know. Our first issue this year will tackle the do’s, the don’ts and the unknowns about uni for both the newbies out there and the older kids (we didn’t forget about you). You will get a better introduction to our sister campuses, features on awesome artists, the beach, those elusive scholarships that always seem out of reach and the usual sections like Dickie’s Dilemma and Places and Spaces, just to name a few. We also have some new stuff to sink your teeth into and plenty of new writers to check out.

LACHIE LEEMING

This year, I put the challenge before you all to take the newbies under your wing, help them if they look lost, be kind to all on campus, smile at strangers and make this the year to beat all years. Remember to try new things, go out on a limb and do the unthinkable because your life will stay exactly the same until you make a change.

TANYA McGOVERN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

So our Yak promise to you in 2013 is to enhance your learning (ha!) and make the uni year just that bit more bearable.

Sometimes when I take the bus I pretend I’m secret agent under deep cover tasked with seamlessly blending in with the locals.

Now, for the best part of the uni year. We can look forward to O Week and parties, the least amount of assignments and work you will have all year and the opportunity to make heaps of new friends. So peace out and party hard. P.S Watch out Ourimbah, Port Macquarie and Sydney, we are after you guys this year!

I am the slowest eater. It’s not uncommon for me to have to reheat a meal halfway through. But you do find out who your real friends are when they wait around half an hour after they’ve finished. DEPUTY EDITOR - COLUMNS

RICHARD BAINES

Blye Lynx deodorant makes me sick. The by-product of spraying it in my mouth to avoid coming up on a breathtester. Don’t drink and drive people.

DEPUTY EDITOR - UNI CONTENT I hoard sheets of paper that have one side left to reuse. My latest discovery was part of an assignment on dodo birds circa 2003.

ANNELIESE WILD

PROMOTIONS & ADVERTISING OFFICER

LUCY McLOED

Once I drank sweet and sour sauce as a dare. I actually quite enjoyed it. I also have a paralysing fear of electric blankets.

04 Yak Magazine - March 2013

twitter.com/yakmagazine

UNIVERSITY STALKER SPACE

facebook.com/yakmagazine

Raise your hand if you have been personally vicitmised by a vending machine on campus.

641 people like this

HANNAH

To the girl that loudly laughed about how ridiculous I looked wearing sunglasses on an overcast day and then got blasted with a face full of leaves. That’s why.

177 people like this

MICHAEL

Was doing a Student Feedback Survey, and a multi-choice question came up asking what encouraged me to attend face-to-face classes. One of the choices were “Ease of Parking”. I laughed heartily.

34 people like this

Ducks New Year’s Resolutions

36% 30%

64%

70%

Memes: Sourced from UoN Memes.

Yak Magazine - March 2013

This month we asked students from the Ourimbah and Callaghan Campuses: What are the best and worst things about your campus?

Selina Chapman Ourimbah Campus

Katherine Ellis Callaghan Campus

Bachelor of Psychology student Ourimbah Psychology Society President

Bachelor of Communication student Yak Magazine Deputy Managing Editor

Ourimbah campus has many notable aspects, but here are a few I think are worth mentioning: Best of all, Ourimbah Campus has FREEBIES. We have free parking and our gym is free too. Studying on a smaller campus also means I get to know my cohort and my lecturers well. Our new library is great to study in and the staff and IT Rovers don’t freak out when you do. Great for the wallet, I have also found a number of jobs on campus that fit around study, exams and holidays. We even have our own unofficial mascot, Roger the Rooster (he’s on Facebook). However, Ourimbah is not all sunshine and giggles. Worst of all is there is no slip and slide when the campus floods, and on hot days we are not allowed to swim in the lake to see if Eric the Eel really is an urban legend. And no matter how many times I ask, Facilities Management won’t let me race their golf buggies to class. I guess we can’t have everything.

Landscaoe: A Line of Enquiry

The most obvious choice for the worst aspect of uni life for the majority of students at Callaghan Campus is the perils of finding a park at 8.45 in the morning (oh Ourimbah students, how I envy you). But, I implore you to think of a far greater issue – the gradient of the university itself. Everything, and I mean everything, leans ominously on a far too steep a slope. The walk from Uni Bakehouse, where you just consumed that amazing cheese and bacon sausage roll, to ICT where you have your next class? Uphill. From Shortland to Engineering? Uphill. It is as if the university itself has a plot to force all students to work off the calories from those succulent pastries.

Hey, Callaghan, Ourimbah, Port Macquarie and Sydney students. Want to write for Yak? Well, here’s your chance. Yak is on the hunt for contributors, especially those studying at Ourimbah, Port Macquarie and Sydney campus. To express your interest, simply ‘like’ the Yak Facebook page or follow @YakMagazine on Twitter, and email yakmagazine@newcastle.edu.au with a sample of your writing.

And the best thing about Callaghan? Well, in case you failed to piece it together, the FOOD! I can’t walk past the Uni Bakehouse when I’m hungry and on a budget. Or perhaps a sushi roll and smoothie? It’s all good. May as well smash that $7 deal cause I’m going to be walking it off on my way to class anyway.

I Went To University For 3 Years And This Is All I Got Out Of It

20 FEBRUARY - 10 MARCH

Wounds That Don’t Heal

Death by Association

13 - 31 MARCH

Landscape: A Line of Enquiry - Shelagh Lummis

Tension - Alyshia Boettcher

I Went to University For 3 Years And This Is All I Got Out Of It. - Luke Morgan

Don’t Let Your Old Dreams Get You Down - Lynda Lee Lewis

Wounds That Don’t Heal - Ashlea Boswell

QUADRENNIUM - Jordan Fardell, Heidi Emerton, Meg Mancell, Lara Brichacek Ritualism in Modern Society - 1st Year Group Exhibition

Distortions - Mary Van Gils Out of the Dust of the Earth - Jeni Prickett

Death by Association - Begona Pretorius

Thursday, 21 February, 6.30pm

Thursday, 14 March, 6.30pm

Email: wattspace@newcastle.edu.au Website: www.newcastle.edu.au/group/watt-space Facebook: Search: Watt Space Student Gallery of the University of Newcastle. Watt Space Gallery, University House, Auckland St Newcastle. Open 11am -5 pm, Wed - Sun. Ph: 4921 8733 Watt Space is funded by UoN Services Limited and supported by the University of Newcastle School of Drama, Fine Art and Music.

Yak Magazine - March 2013

- COMMUNITY GARDEN By Pasqualina Perone

UoN Sustainability Scholar, Pas returns this semester to plant more seeds of greenie knowledge in our minds. This month she introduces us to the Community Garden on Callaghan campus. Well, it’s here – the University of Newcastle finally has its very own community garden! Brought to you by the U, the garden is run by students, for students. Since its implementation in October 2012, we have already seen it produce fresh foods like eggplants, tomatoes and lettuces, as well as herbs such as basil and coriander. Most beautifully the garden boasts sunflowers. The garden is a sustainable initiative that was started as a way to engage students and staff alike, in a project that would incorporate sustainability, promote a re-connection to nature, and create a positive social

SUP PORT U UoN Services Support Scholar, Jasmin Harrison, will be sharing her knowledge with us this semester. This month, she introduces us to some of the popular support services on campus. So you’ve started uni, you’ve got a roof over your head, you’ve navigated the mysteries of program handbooks and myHub, you’ve gotten lost half a dozen times already trying to find your way around the tree-lined, mosquito-infested campus paths, and you’ve survived O Week with your liver and sanity intact. You’re now ready to hit Semester One running. And good for you! If you need a hand with anything along the way, here are some services on campus that may prove useful:

Campus Care Program This is a good central port of call if you ever need info, advice, or support in managing concerning, threatening or inappropriate behaviours. If you’re worried about something contact them. Ph: (02) 4921 8600 Email: campuscare@newcastle.edu.au

Health Services

environment on campus for those who aren’t just interested in gigs and parties. The garden will also (hopefully) promote healthy eating, inspire students to experiment with food, and realise that you can make friends with salad. We have a great deal of plans for the garden this year, so everyone can get involved – you don’t need to be a green thumb or a gardening expert! Activities brewing for this year include scarecrow making, mural painting, regular working bees, and picnics and cooking classes so any interested students or staff can enjoy the fresh produce from the garden. I’d again like to thank everyone that helped the team at UoN Services make the garden a reality – the Tom Farrell Institute, Facilities Management, The Green Helping Hand, NUSEC, Wollotuka, and of course, the many wonderful volunteers who spent hours in the sun labouring away to bring the garden to life. If you would like to get involved, shoot us an email at: campuslife@newcastle.edu.au, or join the Facebook group by searching ‘UoN Community Garden’.

Support Services Jasmin Harrison Careers Service For support around career choice, planning, and guidance on job searching, applications and interviews. They also offer an awesome range of information sessions, expos and workshops throughout the year. Website: www.newcastle.edu.au/service/careers/students/

Centre for Teaching and Learning This is where to go for support in acing the academic side of things. Accessed through the Learning Development course tab on your Blackboard site, there are details of workshop programs, stacks of online resources, and you can make appointments for individual consultations.

Counselling Service A free, confidential service provided by professionally trained and super friendly psychologists and social workers. They are open to discussion about any issue. • Newcastle (Callaghan Campus) - Room HA209, Hunter Building Ph: (02) 4921 5801 Email: counselling@newcastle.edu.au

The fully accredited general practices are staffed by doctors and nurses with an understanding of medical issues common among students.

• Central Coast (Ourimbah Campus) - Student Support Unit Ph: (02) 4348 4060 Email: student-support-ourimbah@newcastle.edu.au

Newcastle (Callaghan Campus): (02) 4921 6000 Central Coast (Ourimbah Campus): (02) 4348 4060

• Port Macquarie - Building A, Port Macquarie Campus Ph: (02) 6581 6200 or (02) 6581 6212

08 Yak Magazine - March 2013

Bayden McDonald finds out just what’s so cool about Newy’s beaches.

The best features are the beaches, do you understand? It’s true, this place is pretty good, as the lyrics go, and if you ask a local why, they’ll probably point to the beaches. Though the summer is officially over, many new students, whether from inland regions or even foreign countries, will probably want to get down to the beach and enjoy coastal life while the sun’s still out. So if you’ve driven here from the rural west in your rusty Hilux, or ditched the German winter for a tan and some Aussie education, you might want to find out a little bit about our famous beaches from someone in the know, before you head into the surf. James Callender is the club captain at Newcastle Surf Lifesaving Club, and after 12 years with the organisation, he knows a thing or two. “Things that attract people to our beaches are the diversity in the conditions,” he says. “So you can surf at our beaches, you can also swim at our beaches and you can sunbake… you can do everything at the one beach.” James says that it is pretty easy to spot a newcomer. “They will go to a quiet spot or they will come directly onto the beach and into the water from where they parked their car. “Our job is to ensure that the flags are set up in the safest spot to swim… we don’t

see them go in, and therefore we don’t see them go under.” If you ask any lifeguard what the one piece of advice they stress to beachgoers is, it is always the same: swim between the flags. It sounds obvious, but to some people it’s clearly not. Beaches vary, as do the conditions, so it’s important to pay attention to those with the knowledge. The many rock formations scattered along Newcastle’s beaches provide a lovely landscape, as well as some nice, naturallyheated baths, if you don’t mind a few spikey barnacles in your butt cheeks. But, there are also some unseen dangers in the rip currents that are attracted to these formations. “So for example at Newcastle, you’ve got rips that run beside either of the rock shelfs,” James says. “Bar Beach has got a gutter, then you’ve got a bit of a sand bank before you go out to your final break. There’re rips that are associated with those gutters that head out along the rock line – same as with Merewether, Redhead, Nobby’s.” Alex Hambly, who is a lifesaver newbie, also at Newcastle SLSC, says that the threat of rips is often not taken seriously enough. “I think what happens is people don’t really pay attention to a rip until they’re in it, and they can’t get out of it and they panic. Then they just need assistance from us, and that’s what we’re there for.”

Thankfully, neither Alex nor the veteran James, have had to experience first-hand the tragic side of beach patrol. James’ multiple rescues have always ended with ‘joyous results’. He recalls a particular incident in Sydney, where he was involved in a full-scale rescue to save a person who had jumped off a cliff and was unconscious in the water. “It was more or less all hands on deck to bring this person out of the water, back to life, and back to a well human being.” Psychologically, there’s a huge difference between a drill and a real rescue operation, but James finds that the same emotions that freeze others up can also help in an urgent situation. For the 21-year-old, the pressure of the moment is no hindrance. “If you’re kind of sitting here thinking ‘how would I deal with a situation like that’, you try to remember all of the things you’ve been taught. But when adrenaline is pumping through your body everything just floods back… I knew exactly what to do at the right time and when.” It’s experiences like that one that James brings to his role as lifeguard and leader at Newcastle. This year is his second term as club captain at Newcastle Surf Lifesaving Club. But, he says, you don’t need years of experience if you want to get involved. Alex Hambly has only recently decided to give it a go, completing his eight-week Bronze Medallion course last year and just

Yak Magazine - March 2013

fitness side of it, you have a training aspect, starting out as a volunteer at Newcastle Beach. He recommends it, even for anyone and you also have facets that give you who thinks they’re not particularly inclined to experience in managing people,” he said. rigorous amounts of swimming and running. As a Bachelor of Commerce student at the University of Newcastle, James finds “They’ll put you through; they’ll teach you that his leadership role is providing him what to do – it’s really good. You get a certificate in public safety, and then there’s with the kind of experience he needs to succeed in his intended career in no obligation for you to volunteer for the accounting, marketing and management. surf club, you can just do your bronze medallion to know more about the beach “In my current role as club captain I need and the water.” to be able to market the surf club to new

Newcastle surf lifesavers have recently shifted their attention to attracting a younger demographic, so it’s a good time to get involved. The many pub crawls, as well as free tickets to Bathurst 1000 and Big Day Out, are some of the potential perks. Sure, you may have to spend some time pushing sunscreen to shirtless drunks, for whom the thought of doing something so sensible is about as far away from beer and the Bloody Beetroots as you can get on their list of priorities, but it’s a small price to pay to see your international heroes rocking out. For James, the benefits of being a surf lifesaver are extensive, and perhaps not what you would expect. “What I like about surf lifesaving is you can do a lot within one organisation. So you have the sporting side of it, you have the

members, I need to be able to manage the 150 people that volunteer for me and I need to be involved in dispute resolutions and those sorts of things. So it’s sort of like being a boss, but not being paid for it, and on a miniature level.” When asked if there is a relationship problem with lifeguards and patrons at the beach, both Alex and James say the same thing: only with surfers. The two camps are often in mouthy exchange, particularly when it comes to surfers who aren’t local and don’t expect to be bothered. Regulars tend to be more appreciative of the fact that the surf lifesavers are there to provide a service and keep swimmers safe, and will generally be receptive to the lifeguards’ directions. But there are always those who don’t like to be told what to do, or to have to share the surf.

“If we’re out there on our paddle boards they get annoyed, if we’re out there in a rubber duckie they get super annoyed – they really don’t like us zipping around,” Alex said. “It’s not our beach and it’s not their beach. It needs to be shared,” he added. Not that hogging it is generally an option, particularly on a hot Saturday when everybody piles out of the city, the buses and trains, for the same piece of ocean

– so many people per square metre that when a big wave comes it’s not that uncommon to come back up in somebody else’s pants. If you’re like me and come from a small, not particularly sunny town, where if there’s more than half a dozen people on the sand it’s practically a beach party, such numbers can be off-putting. But you’ll soon come to embrace it, and you’ll find that there is a hell of a lot to like about Newcastle’s beaches. So grab your best Aussie flag towel and your sexiest swimwear, and go say hi to James, Alex and the crew while it’s still hot.

10 Yak Magazine - March 2013

By Tanya McGovern

hat do Taylor Swift, cake ingredients, a set of scales and a doctor’s outfit have to do with accounting? They all come together cleverly as teaching aids in Dr Marcus Rodrigs’ popular accounting lectures. Marcus Rodrigs is an accounting practitioner-turned-academic who started teaching at the University of Newcastle in 2008 after arriving from Singapore. He has worked in the industry as a consultant, and has taught corporate training and university courses for 15 years. Marcus often taught undergraduate lectures to around 500 students, and found that many students were disinterested in accounting, so he set out to change that. “My focus has been and always will revolve around the individual rather than the masses,” Marcus said. “Traditionally, the discipline of accounting suffers from a negative image within the minds of students as bland, boring and banal. “My role and challenge…is to inject new life and interest into students. “I include humour (in an accounting class!) as it creates a healthy learning environment,” he says. Marcus uses a systematic approach of what he calls ‘blended learning’ when conducting a class. He will often begin by introducing the topic and explaining key concepts, rules, methods and accounting standards, a process which he calls the analysis. After he

introduces the topic, he will move on to the synthesis section, where he uses real life scenarios in the form of a case study, news article or video to assist students’ understanding. Marcus explained the concept of ALICE, a clever acronym for assets, liability, income, capital and expenses, by using a YouTube video of Taylor Swift as a real life example. He has also used other creative ways to explain concepts to students. He has worn a doctor’s outfit to a lecture, and has brought cake ingredients and his handmade set of scales in to demonstrate a formula. Marcus said that terms like ‘personal teaching approach’ and ‘student engagement’ often appear in his student feedback surveys. With a Facebook dedication page, Marcus’ popularity is undeniable. The Marcus Rodrigs Appreciation Society has 634 members and was started by accounting students Daniel Kahl, James Willing, Benny Nagel and Eben Smith. The Facebook group co-founder, Daniel Kahl helped shed some light on Marcus’ widespread popularity. “His enthusiasm is absolutely infectious, even the least interested accounting student can’t help but pay attention to what he is saying,” Daniel said. “What makes Marcus different to other teachers is the extent to which he will go above and beyond to help his students. “He will go out of his way to give any possible assistance he can, answering phone calls in the middle of the night

Doctor Marcus Rodrigs before assessments are due or the day of an exam, making time to see students, at all times. “He is an exceptional educator and an extraordinary man, that’s all there is too it,” Daniel said. Marcus has been recognised for his contributions to teaching many times, and has an impressive wall of awards to prove it. He has won Top 10 places in the UniJobs Lecturer of the Year Awards in 2011, 2010 and 2009. Lecturers are nominated by students for this award, and members of Marcus’ Facebook group campaign each year to get him as many nominations as possible. Marcus’ latest accolade came last year when he was awarded the Vice Chancellors Award for Teaching Excellence and Learning Support. This semester, Marcus will be teaching the introductory course, Accounting for Decision Makers (ACFI1001) and the postgraduate course, Accounting and Financial Management (GSBS6200).

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12 Yak Magazine - March 2013

Drapht opens up to Lachie Leeming about being broke, the music industry and giving back to the students.

was a jittery, rambling mess when I rang Drapht, the result of a 48-hour whirlwind blitz on booze at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Still reeking of grog and with a severe case of the shakes, I seedily introduced myself and was relieved to hear Drapht was in a similar state to mine. Draphtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crook condition however was not a self-inflicted wound like the one I was suffering through, but the result of a sneaky weekend Bali trip. Nonetheless we forged a bond over the bastardry of illness before I began probing him about his upcoming Uni-Verse tour. Drapht was an easy bloke to chat to. Even though I had interrupted a planned trip to the corner shop, he was all too ready to vent on the reasons behind his latest musical movements. A quick glance through the venues (a large proportion are Uni bars) as well as the name of the tour itself (Uni-Verse, geddit?) prompted me to ask where his affiliation with the student lifestyle stemmed from. A stint studying health and fitness at TAFE when he first left high school played some part in developing his empathies toward the plight of the student. His self-confessed hatred for the course was coupled with the fact that many of his friends were working full-time whilst he was a dirt poor student. This struck a nerve with me, as surely as it does with the majority of university students, as just a few days before, my shitty

Yak Magazine - March 2013

car had lit itself on fire. Whilst most of my working friends boast lovely, healthy vehicles, my car had smoked up a mere hundred metres from my house (seriously it did, if anyone is selling a car for cheap that does not have pyromaniac tendencies, please hit me up). Drapht listened to my car gripe with sincerity before managing to get me refocused on the interview at hand. “It’s about giving back to the people that are in that position. Students go day-in day-out eating Mi Goreng…trying to build for the future,” he explained. He also revealed the added freedom that playing at smaller venues afforded. The differences between playing at Big Day Out and at our humble Bar on the Hill are obvious to spot, but it is these very differences that have Drapht excited for the tour. Drapht acknowledges that half the people that come to a festival show may only know “a song or two off the radio,” whereas the fans that attend the more intimate solo performances “know your catalogue.” The possibilities that are available within the smaller spots mean as an artist, the chance to strip the show back and try stuff he hasn’t been able to in a while, leave him revitalised and excited. This will be complemented by Drapht’s own band which he has played with for the past six years, as well as good friend and fellow hip-hop veteran N’fa Jones who will accompany him on tour. In Drapht’s own words, it’s all about getting the chance to “experiment with new songs, build a show, doing stuff that I want to do and songs that reflect the new sort of music I am approaching.”

hop legends such as Hunter and Dazastah since he was a schoolboy has been crucial, he says, in forming his own style and achieving what he has so far. Above everything, he is massively grateful towards the opportunities he has had to make music with close friends and share it with a wider audience. His future goals are refreshingly simple and reflect the state of mind he has formed through his career: “All that matters is making music that reflects me as a person and making music for the people I love. That’s all I want to do.”

To get your chance to see Drapht, make sure you are at Bar On The Hill on 15 March. Doors open at 7:30pm. Tickets available from Bar on the Hill, The Rock Shop or online via www.bigtix.com.au U Members - $20.00 Students - $22.50 Guests - $27.50

After the booming success during 2011 and his album “Life of Riley,” Drapht appeared to take a step back after collecting a swag of awards and dominating the airwaves. Behind the scenes however, he was still making major moves. Being a self-managed artist who runs his own record label meant Drapht was a busy man as it was. Throughout 2012, he continued writing and recording at a furious pace, so much so that he believes he has enough material for several albums. Despite releasing a few songs in late 2012 and early 2013, he says there are no immediate album plans. Discussing the current state of the Australian music scene, he rues the ‘blink of an eye’ attention spans of radio listeners. “A lot of the underground kids, they put out a record one week and the next week they’ve forgotten about it. “And that’s a whole year of work. It’s the fickleness of the industry that swallows them up. If they’re not doing it for the love of it, it’s absolutely draining.” Listen up, aspiring artists. Despite having a plethora of songs that he admits “may not necessarily fit an album package,” other elements of his life have developed to the point where he no longer has to work towards the next radio hit. He talks with relish about the café that he has painstakingly put time into over the course of the last year and how it has changed his work life immensely. “The beautiful thing about the café is that it really takes the pressure off my music…and the need to make that next big radio song,” he explains. It’s a mindset that has taken some cultivating. Drapht had been working away for a long time before his mainstream successes. Being surrounded and embraced by Aussie hipDesigned by Hannah Sunderland DESIGNED BY

14 Yak Magazine - March 2013

o me, scholarships seem to be a bit like unicorns: fabulous and completely fictional. It always seems as though scholarships are reserved for tap dancing cat-whisperers and other exotic beings rather than the average student. The pseudo-statistic of ‘millions of dollars in scholarships go unclaimed each year’, is quite often imparted to students as an attempt at encouragement, or to ease the mind of struggling students. However, when you can’t find a scholarship that you feel fits your skills or circumstances, it can seem as though the whole world is against you. A pity party can be a fun indulgence, however it’s ultimately useless. Wishing you studied engineering when your passion lies in journalism, or wishing you kept up your piano lessons instead of fine tuning your (admittedly stellar) Mario Kart skills isn’t going help in the hunt for that elusive scholarship. The University of Newcastle offers plenty of cash-based conventional scholarships for a variety of students, whether you are a first year student, working on postgraduate studies, or somewhere in between. Still, if after trawling through the unforgivingly lengthy list of scholarships on offer you find yourself with zilch, it may take time to consider Equity Scholarships (awarded to assist financially disadvantaged students) or the double whammies that are the Summer Vacation Scholarships and Industry Scholarships. Summer Vacation Scholarships give students the opportunity to undertake a supervised research project that correlates with their program of study. The downside is giving up that sweet universityfree vacation time to spend more timeon campus. Similarly, the Industry Scholarships provide students with access to professional placements where they incorporate their studies into a practical environment and gain experience in their chosen industry. Jasmin Harrison is the recipient of the Student Support Industry Scholarship with UoN Services, and has been lucky enough to gain invaluable work experience with the Campus Life team on various projects, whilst being financially supported at the same time.

Scholar-tips: • Go online. Both information and application forms for all the scholarships offered by the University of Newcastle can be found online at www.newcastle.edu.au/scholarships. • Double check and then check again. It may seem obvious but always proof read your application and triple check the scholarship requirements to make sure you’re supplying all the necessary documents and statements. • The Career Services doesn’t just offer career advice; they can help you out with all your scholarship needs such as writing your application or updating your resume. Get in touch with them at www.newcastle.edu.au/service/careers. • The closing date for most scholarships offered by the university in 2013 is 31 March. Don’t get caught out as even the most amazing of applications will not be considered if submitted late. • Research your scholarship and the donors that fund it. It’s only polite to get to know the people who are potentially going to be signing you a big fat cheque. • Think outside the box (or at least outside the university). Mining companies and other industry specific businesses sometimes offer scholarships, paid summer work experience or internships independent to the university, so check out what’s available in your own area. • Don’t give up! New scholarships are established all the time. The road to a scholarship isn’t meant to be easy, but it sure beats a steady diet of 2 Minute Noodles and Easy Mac. You have to be in it to win it, so let 2013 be the year we all find our own personal scholarship unicorn. - Lucy McLeod

Despite a lack of confidence in her ability to win the scholarship or write a good application, Jasmin decided that the opportunity was too good to bypass without giving it a go. It was her enthusiasm and involvement in volunteer work and other extra-curricular activities that Jasmin believes helped make her stand out from the crowd and succeed with her application. “The main thing is to give it a go, you may not think you have much of a chance, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know. Make sure you research it as well as you can beforehand and think carefully about how to answer the questions,” she says. Enthusiasm was the key for another scholarship recipient, Harriet Bell, who is currently undertaking a summer research project in the field of Communication and Creativity. Harriet’s tips for prospective summer research scholarship applicants are to talk to relevant people or academics personally and express “an irresistible interest” in advance and to be ambitious and direct in your objectives. “Shockingly, it turns out lecturers love when you’re interested in their field,” she says. Designed by Jessica Rykers

WHAT’S ON EVENTS & GIGS

WEEKLY

KEY: O WEEK

Find out more at www.uonservices.org.au

U Member Happy Hour

at Godfrey Tanner Bar, 4pm - 5pm

MONDAY 25 - FEB O Week Expo

O Week

25 February - 1 March Across campus

Trivia Bar on the Hill

GilBird 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Godfrey Tanner Bar

Live Music

O Party

Thursday, 14 March Bar on the Hill

MOVIE MONDAYS at U CINEMA

3pm - 5pm, Thursdays Godfrey Tanner Bar

Derkenne Courtyard at sunset

Feb

Memento (M)

4 Salmon Fishing Mar in the Yemen (PG) 11

Mar

Wind Up Wednesday

From 3pm, Wednesdays Bar on the Hill

Mar

(PG)

Circus Playground

Live Music James Chatburn 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Live Music Glenny Rae Virus & Her Texas Playboys 2.30pm - 4.30pm, Bar on the Hill

Pool Comp 3pm - 6pm, Bar on the Hill

Lawn Games 3pm - 5pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

Oliver Goss 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Bar on the Hill

Twenty20 by Feast

Live Music & Circus

FRIDAY 1 - MARCH

Tim Kellaway, Serena Presterey & Ian Churton 12pm - 1pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

From 5pm, Bar on the Hill

O Week Expo 10am - 3pm, Brennan Room

Trivia

Circus Playground

1pm - 3pm, Bar on the Hill

10am - 3pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Live Music

Neon Connective 2.30pm - 4.30pm, Bar on the Hill

Morgan Evans 12pm - 1pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Tanner Tuesday Karaoke with Triple J’s Tom Ballard as part of Tom and Alex’s O Week Crawl From 4pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

O Week Expo 10am - 3pm, Brennan Room

Circus Playground

U Member Happy Hour Godfrey Tanner Bar

The Kite Runner

10am - 3pm, Brennan Room

WEDNESDAY 27 - FEB

Despicable Me Amelie (R)

Showing: Memento (M) Sunset, Derkenne Courtyard

10am - 3pm, Brennan Room

Live Music

Mar (PG)

Movie Mondays at U Cinema

Live Music

Lawn Games

THURSDAY 28 - FEB

10am - 3pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Bar on the Hill

Friday, 15 March Bar on the Hill

With #Hashtag DJs Free buses in to town + Free pool from 3pm, Bar on the Hill

Circus Playground

10am - 3pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Drapht

Wind Up Wednesday

Brass Arcade 2.30pm - 4.30pm, Bar on the Hill

3pm, Wednesdays 3pm, Thursdays

3pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

Live Music

O Week Expo

Godfrey Tanner Bar

Pool Comp

O Week Expo

TUESDAY 26 - FEB

Pool Comp

at Bar on the Hill, 5pm - 6pm

Riley and Donna 12pm - 1pm, Bar on the Hill

Tanner Tuesdays 7pm, Tuesdays Godfrey Tanner Bar

Break Out Comedy Tour

Live Music

1pm, Tuesdays 3pm, Fridays

7pm, Friday, 1 March Bar on the Hill

10am - 3pm, Brennan Room

U Member Happy Hour

4pm - 5pm Every day of semester

Bar on the Hill 5pm - 6pm Every day of semester* (except Wednesdays)

10am - 3pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Live Music Bernie Segedine 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

Live Music Mr Speaker & the People Party 2.30pm - 4.30pm, Bar on the Hill

Crazy Old Maurice 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Bar on the Hill

Live Music The Mark Wells Band 2.30pm - 4.30pm, Bar on the Hill

Trivia 3pm - 6pm, Bar on the Hill

O Party Run Away to the Circus! Featuring Paul Masters & MC Kitch Prizes for ‘Best Dressed’ individual & team Entry: U Members: FREE UoN Students: $10 Guests: $20 From 7pm, Bar on the Hill Free Buses in to town

Yak Magazine - March 2013

O Party - Friday, 1 March, Bar on the Hill

SATURDAY 2

O WEEK & MARCH

TUESDAY 12 Markets

SUNDAY 3

11am - 2.30pm, Auchmuty Courtyard

WEEK 1

Trivia 1pm - 3pm, Bar on the Hill

MONDAY 4 Tanner Tuesday Movie Mondays at U Cinema Showing: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (PG) Sunset, Derkenne Courtyard

TUESDAY 5

From 7pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

WEDNESDAY 13 3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

WEDNESDAY 6 Pool Comp 3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

With #Hashtag DJs Free buses in to town + Free pool From 3pm, Bar on the Hill

THURSDAY 14 Pool Comp

Pool Comp 3pm, Bar on the Hill

Lawn Games 4pm - 5pm, Derkenne Courtyard

Harmony Week Multifaith Services Auchmuty Courtyard

Trivia 1pm - 3pm, Bar on the Hill

Movie Mondays at U Cinema Showing: The Kite Runner (PG) Sunset, Derkenne Courtyard

TUESDAY 26 Trivia 1pm - 3pm, Bar on the Hill

Tanner Tuesday Tanner Tuesday

WEDNESDAY 20 Harmony Week World Movie Screening

WEDNESDAY 27

Derkenne Courtyard

3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

Lawn Games

Break Out Comedy Tour Entry: U Members: FREE Students: $5 Guests: $10 Doors open 7.30pm Bar on the Hill

Pool Comp

Pool Comp 3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

Wind Up Wednesday

3pm, Bar on the Hill

Wind Up Wednesday

THURSDAY 7

TUESDAY 19

Campus Session Times: 10.30am - 1pm: Business, Humanities, Information Technology and Law 2pm - 4.30pm: Design, Engineering and Science

From 7pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

4pm - 5pm, Derkenne Courtyard With #Hashtag DJs Free buses in to town + Free pool from 3pm, Bar on the Hill

Showing: Amelie (R) Sunset, Derkenne Courtyard

From 7pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

Wind Up Wednesday

From 7pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

Movie Mondays at U Cinema

Pool Comp

Trivia 1pm - 3pm, Bar on the Hill

Tanner Tuesday

Wind Up Wednesday With #Hashtag DJs Free buses in to town + Free pool From 3pm, Bar on the Hill

With #Hashtag DJs Free buses in to town + Free pool from 3pm, Bar on the Hill

THURSDAY 28 Pool Comp

THURSDAY 21

3pm, Bar on the Hill

Harmony Week A Taste of Harmony

4pm - 5pm, Derkenne Courtyard

Lawn Games

Bar on the Hill

Pool Comp

FRIDAY 15 Trivia

3pm, Bar on the Hill

Lawn Games

FRIDAY 29 Trivia

3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

4pm - 5pm, Derkenne Courtyard

Bar on the Hill Gig Drapht

FRIDAY 22

SATURDAY 30

Trivia

SUNDAY 31

3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

FRIDAY 8 Trivia 3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

SATURDAY 9 SUNDAY 10

WEEK 2 MONDAY 11

Tix: U Members: $20 UoN Students: $22.50 Guests: 27.50 Doors open 7.30pm Bar on the Hill

SATURDAY 16 SUNDAY 17

WEEK 3 Movie Mondays at U Cinema Showing: Despicable Me (PG) Sunset, Derkenne Courtyard

3pm - 6pm, Godfrey Tanner Bar

SATURDAY 23 SUNDAY 24

WEEK 4 MONDAY 25

MONDAY 18 Harmony Week Opening Auchmuty Courtyard

Graduate Careers Expo The Great Hall, Callaghan

18 Yak Magazine - March 2013

2013: what you need to know WITH EMILY STEELE

oorah for 2013! Here’s hoping wherever you were in the world for the start of the New Year, you celebrated it with a bang! We are all hoping that 2013 will be better than last year, but before you go on and make any grand plans for adventures, you should probably catch up on some important 2013 facts first. Once again of course, it has been predicted that the world will most certainly come to an end…it will definitely happen this time, because two, that’s right people, two Tzolk’in calendars, come to an end on the 31 March this year. This may seem like a good reason not to start any of your assignments, or to ignore Census date, but I wouldn’t rely on things going downhill that quickly. 2013 will be the first year that is represented by four different digits, since 1987, so I’m taking that as a sign that it will prove itself to be something very special. Although we must now say goodbye to beaches, bars and backyard parties, as well as the gloriousness of freedom and holidays, we are once again entering a holy place that is meant to provide us with some of the best memories of our lives. So, welcome (and welcome back) to the University of Newcastle. For all the newbies out there, many feelings of excitement, fear and absolute dread will be kicking in at the thought of full-time study. For those of us returning for our second, third, fourth, first-but-really-third years of uni, we are more reluctant to say goodbye to holidays and hello again to Blackboard, assignments and the soul-destroying task of finding a car park. We can however, laugh at the fresh blood attempting these tasks with less finesse.

We can snigger all we please at the newbies, but to ease their fear (and sometimes downright confusion), and to reignite the spark of those returning, Yak has put together a must-not-miss and should-definitely-complete list of uni must do’s and things you might not have known. We aim to help with not only the menial tasks, but to teach you that uni isn’t just about lectures, car parks and assignments.

THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT REALISE Under no circumstance should it be okay to think you can rock up five minutes before your lecture and find a car park – it may happen once or twice but it’s like finding a fruit loop in your muesli. Best attempts will be made before 8am.

Similarly, do not think that you can park in a spot that looks so much like a car park that it should be and get away with it. You will get a whopper of a fine to completely ruin your day, and budget.

Yak Magazine - March 2013

There is free parking located at Callaghan – an extra walk but more money in your pocket. It is marked out on maps provided on the uni website.

Your uni email can be written using your name or your student ID – don’t be fooled in to thinking you have two emails, they are both the same account.

If a classroom is empty, feel free to use the computers, just clear out if a class comes in or keep real quiet.

There are Student Hubs on both sides of the Callaghan campus (I spent weeks walking to the opposite side of the campus because I didn’t know) as well as at Ourimbah and in the Newcastle CBD. The people at the Hubs are lovely and happy to answer questions.

Watch out for possums – they will get you when you least expect it.

The duck is a pesky creature you should be aware of at all times. Do not be fooled in to thinking the duck is your friend, and by no means feed them.

There are awesome facilities at Callaghan campus, like a Post Office, bank and the all-important Subway for lunch.

You can also get money out at the Post Office. Deputy Managing Editor Kate only discovered this last year and it totally rocked her world.

If you don’t like a class, or you might be struggling a bit with other commitments, you can drop that class before the Census date to avoid paying any fees.

You must, at all times carry mozzie repellent – the scum of the earth flourish on our extremely intelligent blood.

You can drop assignments off at all Student Hubs – Callaghan, Newcastle, Ourimbah etc.

Borrowed books can be returned to Huxley or Auchmuty libraries, regardless of where you initially borrowed them.

There is a 24 hour computer room at Callaghan for those late nights finishing assignments that are due at 9am the next day.

There are special circumstances for any of those hard times in life that might make your uni work hard to complete.

If you think you have what it takes to be a contributor for Yak, hit the team up.

20 Yak Magazine - March 2013

OU Y S G N THI

MUST D O AT UN

Put the regular bar activities into your diary like pool comps and trivia nights. Get a toga ready for the annual Toga Party. Catch a train to town during those longer breaks – it only takes 10-15 minutes. Did anyone say beach and cafes? Buy a piece of uni clothing. Throw an all-nighter and still come to uni.

Get yourself down to the O Party and welcome in the new year of study the only way we uni students know how.

Apply for some work experience relevant to your degree. Even as a first year there are plenty of people willing to take you on.

Party hard at Autonomy Day. Get a drink from Bar on the Hill.

Check out some of the local talent – by that I mean your uni’s theatre, art gallery or sporting team.

Try rock climbing on the second-highest indoor wall in Australia at The Forum.

Get a trivia team together and head to the closest pub.

Do a library tour – it sounds lame but the library is a completely mysterious and extremely difficult opponent when faced with a fast approaching deadline.

Make friends with a student on exchange from a different country, you never know where in the world you could be welcome when you’re done.

Make friends with someone in your class – avoiding people will never end well. Try food from a uni food stall – they pop up everywhere and the amazing smells waft through the whole campus. Like some of the fun Facebook pages like Stalkerspace. Check out the new Outdoor Cinema in the Derkenne courtyard at Callaghan on Monday nights. Buy gum boots for your treks through Ourimbah campus in the wet months. Join a campus Club or Society – like the Quidditch team. Fall asleep in a lecture – but don’t snore, you attract far too much attention and risk getting photographed and put up on the People Sleeping at UoN Facebook page. If you’re from another campus, road trip to Bar on the Hill for the Drapht concert in March. Check out the newly refurbished Godfrey Tanner Bar at Callaghan – they have a cool bicycle up on the wall.

Do a fancy dress pub crawl and dress in the most ridiculous thing you can find. Complain to anyone who will listen about how poor you are because you are a student. When that big red bus rolls on to campus be brave, roll up your sleeve and save a life by giving blood. Do the unthinkable and hand in an assignment early. You might ask why, but when you are out on the weekend and the rest of your classmates are still chained to their desks, you will suddenly feel the euphoria. Argue with someone from a different degree that yours is far superior to theirs. Keep an open mind. Uni is an experience and a half so make sure you are ready for it. You’re sure to be in for the time of your life if you take note of our very important observations and complete the must-dos. Whozever you are, wherever you’re from, whatever your age, the University of Newcastle is your new stomping ground for 2013. Who knows where the year will take us? All we can do is be ready for the ride. Quack

Take part in the community garden at Callaghan. If you help look after the garden, you can even use some of the produce. Designed by Anneliese Wild

Yak Magazine - March 2013

Flowers Reading Room By Tanya McGovern

wo students were talking one day. “Hey, meet me at the Flowers Room,” Student One told Student Two.

chic it could feature in an IKEA catalogue.

“Okay. What? Flowers? Why is it called that?” pondered Student Two.

Mr and Mrs Flowers were present at the Opening Ceremony of the refurbished Flowers Room in September 2009, and they were pleased with what they saw.

Student One was baffled by this question and replied, “I don’t know, just follow the scent of flowers and meet me there.”

“I find it hard to believe it’s a refurbishment. I think it is a transformation,” Mr Flowers said.

Like the students, this question had me puzzled too. Why was this room on level four of the Auchmuty Library called the Flowers Reading Room? Are botanical books shelved here? Did it reek of cleaning product posing as floral scents? I was sick of wondering, so I decided to find out.

Overlooking its awesome appearance, the Flowers Room is actually the home of some interesting stuff. Here you’ll be able to find books 000-319, 54 computers, a print and copy station, five group study rooms, the Postgraduate Study Room, DVDs, videos, and the Chinese and Japanese literature collections.

An informative plaque, mixed with some information from the helpful staff at the University Cultural Collections answered my question.

If you’re tired of academic reading, then check out some of the magazines available. You can find TIME magazine, The New Yorker, Cortex, New Statesman, The Economist, New Scientist, ABC Limelight and a variety of architecture magazines.

The room was originally named the Humanities Room, but was renamed The Flowers Reading Room in honour of Pat and Ted Flowers in 1990. Pat Flowers was the University College Librarian from 1951 to 1960, and Ted Flowers was the Foundation University Librarian from 1961, until his retirement in 1988. During my first few weeks of uni I chose the Flowers Room as the place to wait out a painfully long six hour break in between lectures (feel free to shed tears for me, or laugh at my first year stupidity).

If you’re a new student with some time to frivol away, or maybe study, why not take a break from the bars and head over to the Flowers Room? Remember to just follow the scent of flowers.* *Taken from a real conversation I once overheard. Scentsensitive students need not worry, it doesn’t actually smell of flowers or cleaning products.

I was drawn to the room for a number of reasons, mostly superficial. The room was recently refurbished and looks so Designed by Hannah Sunderland

Yak Magazine - March 2013

U-Cinema is the new initiative organised by UON Services for 2013. Every Monday at Sunset in the Derkenne Courtyard a selection of movies will be available for your viewing pleasure. And best of all, U-Cinema is free!

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

Despicable Me By Alex Toscano

By Katherine Ellis

If you are in the mood for a light-hearted, comedic film, then Despicable Me is the choice for you. Voiced by an all-star, hilarious cast, Despicable Me follows the life of Gru (Steve Carell), who is trying to keep the title of “best villain of all time”. With the help of his little yellow minions and sidekick Dr Nefario (Russell Brand), Gru attempts to execute a “super evil plan” to steal the moon. The only way to do this is by using a shrink ray, which Gru’s nemesis Vector (Jason Segel), is in possession of. In the midst of preparing his evil plan, three young orphans, Edith, Agnes and Margot, from Miss Hattie’s Home for Girls, catch the attention of Gru. Adopting the girls, Gru is able to use them as bait to take down Vector. Gru surprises himself and unexpectedly grows a fatherly bond with the girls and they in turn learn to love the villain. The three girls create a vision of love and happiness for Gru, turning his dark home into a loving environment. He even takes them to their ballet rehearsals. Consequently, Gru loses interest in the moon and any plans on stealing it and Dr Nefario delivers an ultimatum: stay with the children, or complete his master plan and cement his position as best villain of all time. In response to this, the girls are returned to the orphanage. Gru has to then decide on whether to go through with his evil plan and destroy Vector, or to go after the three girls who emotionally completed him. I highly recommend seeing this movie. Even though it is animated, it reveals the nuances of family life, something close to all of us, even if you have a villainous streak.



Firstly, let it be noted that the drama is not my go-to choice for entertainment. Shoot outs and explosions, featuring Bruce Willis are my usual first choice. This film, quite obviously, has a vastly different premise. It follows the journey of Fisheries Expert, Dr Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), as he is sent to work with His Excellency the Sheikh of Yemen, who, if you failed to pick it up from the title, wants to bring the sport of salmon fishing to the baron expanse of desert known as Yemen. Jones represents the cynic in us all. Salmon fishing? In Yemen? Right, and pigs fly as well do they? But, much like the unsuspecting film reviewer, Jones drops his sarcastic and doubtful exterior and puts his faith in the project, pulling out all the stops to see the Sheikh’s vision become a reality. Despite the storyline seemingly embracing the predictability of its genre, the film’s plot is its major redeeming feature. Political power and manipulation, the war in Afghanistan, violent Yemeni gangs and the characters own backstory all combine to create a tumultuous and twisting plot that leaves a big question mark hanging over the future of the story. The film poses some challenging questions of life, love and ideology. Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is a film with an undeniably unique and interesting premise, a twisting and entertaining storyline, but a sadly anti-climactic finish. A good film for fans of the drama/comedy/romance genre or those in for a good story.



24 Yak Magazine - March 2013

f you’re like me, the word ‘Snakadaktal’ conjures images of gigantic reptilian beasts flying high through the prehistoric stratosphere. However, Snakadaktal have risen through the unearthed scene on the back of their sweet, crooning sounds, rather than primordial bellows. The five-strong band originates from Melbourne and consists of lads Barna, Joseph, Sean and Jarrah, and lass Phoebe. If you’ve heard of the group before, it may be due to their steady ascension through the Triple J ranks.

Winning Triple J Unearthed High in 2011, when they were still in high school, was a clear statement of both their talent and intent. 2011 spawned two singles Chimera and Air, both of which received high circulation on Triple J and pleased many an eardrum of hipsters. Air went on to claim the 22nd spot of that year’s

Hottest 100. If you tuned in to this year’s countdown you would have noticed Snakadaktal continuing the good work, with their song Dance Bear sliding into 93rd place. But what exactly are you getting into when you choose to listen to this assortment of youth, coming together under this peculiarly-named banner of Snakadaktal? Phoebe is behind the band’s serenading voice, which makes one feel a little sleepy but very comfortable. Her vocals are complimented by Sean’s and both are encompassed by the slow, synthpop that flirts with the idea of being impossible to accurately categorise as a genre. Songs like Dance Bear reveal an unrepressed grittiness to their music, and a willingness to stray away from

conventional stereotypes of ‘just’ being a group of peaceful crooners. The whole package combines to form a sound that seems much too ghostly and aged to belong to a bunch of children fresh from the cooking-pot of high school. Nonetheless, there it is, this supremely talented bunch of youth staring eerily like musically endowed Children of the Corn. With the 2013 St Jerome’s Laneway Festival already under their belt, the year looks to be another gargantuan one in the development of Snakadaktal. A host of new tracks united with growing time and resources for their musical commitments means it is only a matter of time before Snakadaktal take to the airwaves again like the snarling, scaly beast I picture it as. - By Lachie Leeming

Yak Magazine - March 2013

No matter what their career may be, the ultimate goal of a professional is to succeed in making a difference in their chosen field. An engineer uses mathematical formulae to determine whether or not specific projects will succeed or fail. On the other hand, the work of a lawyer, and their ability to make changes to the law, has the potential to affect the whole of society. The role of an engineer is to apply scientific knowledge, mathematics and ingenuity to develop solutions for technical problems. Engineers design materials, structures and systems, while considering the limitations imposed by practicality, safety and cost. In this way, there are simple right and wrong answers. A project is either safe and cost-effective, or dangerous and resource-inefficient.

James A. Michener once said “Scientists dream about doing great things, engineers do them”. They gave that dude a Pulitzer Prize, so he must know what he’s talking about. There’s no question that engineers contribute more to society than lawyers. Engineers are the people who actually do the hard work which launches humanity towards new heights by designing breathtaking skyscrapers, launching rockets into space or developing new software to make your Instagram snaps from Big Day Out look less greasy. These things are all taken for granted without a second thought to the person who had to sit down and design them; probably by programming circuit boards or something else that sounds boring as hell.

In regards to the law, there are never black-and-white, right-or-wrong or straightforward answers to given problems. The role of a lawyer is to seek justice, but the idea of what classifies as ‘justice’ varies depending on the individual and the situation they are in. Legal practitioners have the difficult task of dealing with the ambiguity of law and attempting to make sense of it in order to assist their client in meeting a desired outcome.

That’s not to say graduates of other degrees don’t help society, but if we’re being honest with ourselves, it isn’t even close. What’s that Mr. Bachelor of Teaching? You love kids and helping them learn? Engineers love that the bridge you drove over to get to work this morning DIDN’T collapse. What’s that Ms. Arts Degree? Your novel is going to last through the centuries as an enduring work to future generations? Engineers built the Pyramids. 4000 years and counting.

The law covers nearly, if not every, aspect of life. Hence, society is completely affected by the legal system. Without rules and regulations within a society, there would be total anarchy. Lawyers link the legal system to society in a variety of ways, acting as both advocates and advisors. This link is crucial in allowing fairness within the legal system and, by extension, society.

Sure, if you take a wander across to the engineering department, you might not be too impressed. But don’t be fooled by the fedoras, the blue jeans tucked into New Balance sneakers or the t-shirts with dragons on them. Those engineers, those glorious engineers, bestride the world like colossi.

Essentially, members of the public rely on legal practitioners to translate the law, giving a clear understanding of the situation they are in. You could say lawyers are ‘social engineers’, as it is their duty to interpret and apply the law, so as to enable society to function as effectively as possible. While the aim of an engineer is to ensure specific projects function effectively, a lawyer’s aim is to ensure that the entire civilised world functions effectively. Hence it is clear that lawyers offer a greater contribution to society than engineers.

Chemical or civil, electrical or mechanical, they design, build and operate the world around you. The MacBook you’re tumblring on during a lecture, the machine that made your latte, your Ford Focus, your unit and the suburb it’s in. An engineer had a hand in creating it all, right before designing a sewer system and the iPhone 6. Engineers put Neil Armstrong on the moon and Lance Armstrong on steroids, but they get none of the credit for their contribution to society. Engineers get treated like small fish compared to other graduates.

Brittany Turner

Mathew Barton

3rd Year Communication/Law

2nd Year Electrical Engineering Student at UoN.

26 Yak Magazine - March 2013

n any music genre that experiences a rapid ascension into the larger public’s consciousness, it can be hard to find the diamonds among the plethora of unadulterated crap. True quality can be lost amid the imposters who clamber onto the bandwagon. Contemporary genres such as Dub-step, House and Hip-Hop are prime examples of just how quickly generic shams can be cast aside after their 20 minutes of fame. In contrast to this, ‘Etikit is an impeccable picture of sincerity. ‘Etikit is the performing moniker of Newcastle local Ed Solvyns, and is the continuation of an infatuation with hip-hop that Ed has nursed since his pre-teens. This passion has seen ‘Etikit producing beats since he was 15, and playing every instrument he could get his hands on before that.

Lachie Leeming talks to rapidly rising Newcastle rapper ‘Etikit about carving out a career in hip-hop.

2012 was a year of rapid progression for ‘Etikit, with the rapper releasing his first compilation of songs with

Pardon Me: The Mixtape. This coincided with a concentrated rush on the traditional avenue of talent discovery in Australian music, Triple J Unearthed. ‘Etikit projects an air of genuine gratitude as he speaks with refreshing vigour about his excitement over the events of the past year. There is still a tone of disbelief in his voice as he talks about the success of his first Triple J submitted single, Rolling Stone, and how it peaked at number five on the Hip-Hop Unearthed Charts. “I was pretty stoked. It was my first serious attempt at penning lyrics.” Late in 2012 Ed embarked upon a quest to record his debut mixtape. This involved him forking out his own hardearned cash to use the Sound Heaven recording studios, situated in the bushland of the Blue Mountains. The studio itself had been used by various other Australian musical identities including fellow rapper Urthboy and electric duo Hermitude.

Yak Magazine - March 2013

Of the experience, ‘Etikit says, “It was sick to record there in such a professional environment. The mixtape was pretty much finding out what works [for me musically] and what doesn’t work. “It was all a bit of an experiment, and to be honest my style’s already evolved into something I’m a lot happier with, it’s rawer and way doper to me now. I’m psyched to see where it goes. ” ‘Etikit spent three days recording his 8-track mixtape before releasing it for free download. Meticulously, Ed maintains complete creative control over his work, something that has to be acknowledged when listening to the mixtape. From playing instruments, developing the beats, rapping, singing and then producing the whole package, it is not only a showcase of Ed’s skill, but also his work ethic. ‘Etikit’s music itself is a reflection of his upbringing, growing up in the country town of Tamworth before arriving in Newcastle. His subject matter contains elements that endear themselves to the average young man or woman hurtling through life as he raps about hitting the pub, having a shit day at work and the ambiguous prospect of having to grow up. 2013 is set to be another testimonial year for the rapper, with ‘Etikit’s musical exploits set to be allied with his academic endeavours.

Having now been accepted into a Bachelor of Music at the University of Newcastle, Ed will be hoping the skills garnered through a formal education will further add to his producing repertoire. After stints at the University of Newcastle in 2011 and 2012 he now believes he has found his niche, after studying Surveying previously.

“

2013 for me will be about refining beats and rhymes and developing a presence on the scene.

”

On the musical front, ‘Etikit is ambitious. “I want to drop another mixtape or two over this year, and get some collaborations going. Getting some production credits is also high priority for me this year,” he states. This should be a feat made easier by the equipment now available to him at the University of Newcastle’s Conservatorium of Music. His studies now also offer him various exciting chances to work alongside other musically focused individuals, with ‘Etikit boldly stating his desires to work with choirs and orchestras. With the ability and drive that already places him far ahead of many of his peers, Pardon Me is just a sign of things to come. It’s time to polish up on your manners and check your ‘Etikit. ‘Etikit Page and “Pardon Me” Download Link: www.thisisetikit.com

facebook page

www.facebook.com/ ....thisisetikit

paul masters & MC KITCH +more! FRIDAY MARCH 1 BAR ON THE HILL

free entry

for u members!

UoN Students $ 10 Guests $ 20 18+. ID REQUIRED. CONDITIONS OF ENTRY APPLY. FOR MORE INFO VISIT WWW.UONSERVICES.ORG.AU

Yak Magazine - March 2013

hey’re the heart and soul of life on campus. With over 85 clubs and societies across all campuses, at UoN you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy and a group of misfits to befriend. Whether it’s sharing an appreciation for cheap wine with the Goonion guys, getting down to some serious philosophical questions with the Islamic or Atheist societies, or even just running around pretending to be a wizard with the Quidditch crew, clubs and societies are a great way to enrich your time at uni. Tanya McGovern finds out a bit about just a few of the clubs and societies that the University of Newcastle has to offer.

International Youth & Students for Social Equality Newcastle (IYSSE Newcastle)

The University of Newcastle Islamic Society (UNIS) What: The University of Newcastle Islamic Society supports the growing number of Muslim students on campus, and provides non-Muslims students and staff with an insight into Islamic life and traditions. Events: A discussion is held fortnightly on Thursdays from 2-3pm in the Hunter prayer room. Muslim prayers are held daily in the Hunter and AIC prayer rooms at 1.15pm, 4.45pm and 8pm. The society holds an annual Islamic Awareness Week to help non-Muslims learn about Islam and clear common misconceptions about the faith. During the month of Ramadan, the society holds a weekly evening Ramadan break fast (yes, break fast, not breakfast) in the Auchmuty Courtyard. The event has attracted 300 Muslims and nonMuslims students in the past. Last year, society members held a fast-a-thon during Ramadan, donating the funds raised to charity. Other events include annual fundraisers, fast-a-thons, and an Eid Family Day. It’s easy to join. Just send them an email expressing your interest. Fun Fact: 25% of members are non-Muslims Cost: $2 a year Contact: general_unis@yahoo.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/unis. newcastle

What: The International Youth and Students for Social Equality is a worldwide youth movement fighting against the capitalist system in an effort to improve the rights of youths and the working class, and to move towards a socialist society. IYSSE originates from the International Committee of the Fourth International (the worldwide socialist party founded by Leon Trotsky in 1938) and the Australian Socialist Equality Party. IYSSE Newcastle is one of thousands of IYSSE clubs in universities across the world. Events: IYSSE Newcastle holds fortnightly meetings in the Clubs and Societies room (under Bar on the Hill), discussing topics and articles from the World Socialist Website. The club also holds film screenings and classes about Marxist theory and world history. Sound like you? Just send an email expressing your interest in joining. Fun Fact: The Australian Socialist Equality Party was established in 1972. Cost: $2 Contact: iysse.newcastle@gmail.com Website: www.iysse.com or www. facebook.com/intysse

Ultimate Frisbee Club (NUdiscs) What: The Ultimate Frisbee Club, or NUdiscs, meet to play the thrilling non-contact team sport of Ultimate Frisbee. The game combines elements of touch football, gridiron and netball. If you’re not familiar with the rules of the game, don’t worry; the club has several qualified coaches who enlighten newcomers on the sport. Events: The club meets on a Monday night from 7.30-9.30pm at Oval 3 (behind The Forum) throughout semester. An annual beach tournament is also held and the club trains and selects a team to send to the University Games. Club players also form their own teams for casual tournaments held around the state. President, Ryan Davey, says the best way for interested students to get in contact with the club is to join the club’s Facebook group. Fun Fact: Ultimate Frisbee is recognised as a sport by the Australian Sports Commission. Cost: $20 for endless fun all year! Contact: r.davey@uon.edu.au Website: www.facebook.com/ groups/18648338141/

The Clubs and Societies Expo will be held during O Week in the Brennan Room (inside the Shortland Building) and outside in the Auchmuty Courtyard from 10am to 3pm, with different clubs featured each day. Missed the expo? You can find more clubs and societies info at www.uonservices.org.au Designed by Jessica Rykers

30 Yak Magazine - March 2013

With Matthew Hatton

With Richard Baines

As is often the case at this point of the horological cycle, people tend to don their prophetical robes and attempt to cast an eye into the future in order to uncover what awaits us for the following 12 months.

This is by no means implied with a negative connotation it is simply a launching pad for my first thought and observation of the year; affectionately known as Dickie’s Dilemma.

wo thousand and thirteen, or twenty thirteen, or simply ‘013 depending on which particular method of counting it is that you subscribe to, is here. It’s a new year brought to us by the simple fact that when calendars reach their end, they simply reset, rather than ending and bringing about the fall of civilisation and the need for John Cusack to save us all.

Because I can, on occasion, be fantastically unoriginal when it comes to having ideas for column topics, I have decided that I shall continue with just that. Firstly, and perhaps least importantly, we will have a federal election held in September. Now, that may not seem very enlightening at first, but let me explain. The election campaign will feature an incumbent government that could not sell the idea of giving the entire electorate one million each, even if they had worked out how to ensure such a promise would not have massive inflationary consequences. This election will also host an opposition whose only real policy at the moment consists solely of the word “no” used in varying manners and tones. Along with this, we’ll have a media who will be largely incapable of separating fact from spin and will take most of their plot points for the campaigns from Twitter. This will subsequently give the people on Twitter the idea that Twitter is totally important in shaping the national agenda, even though less than two percent of the electorate (let alone the population of the country as a whole) are on Twitter. Eventually this will lead to a campaign that will be so gloriously unhinged that the rest of the world, if they bother to pay any attention to us at all, will just sit back and wonder just what the hell happened to the “lucky” country. Amongst all this, Apple will launch new versions of their popular lines of gadgets that will be “amazing”, “revolutionary”, “something we think you’re really going to love”, “wow” and/or “really, really special”. The media will be rife with speculation leading up to the announcement, everyone will have their “source” inside Apple that will “confirm” any number of bullshit “facts” in the lead up to the announcement. Afterwards there will be endless debate about whether or not these shiny pieces are better or worse than those they replace. Come Christmas all of this will be largely forgotten until some idiot does their “best of 2013” list.

as dual enrolment for 2013 really an improvement?

If there is one observation I have made about university students from my time immersed in academia, it is that they are indecisive by nature. I too am exceedingly guilty of this and we need only look at the consistent number of students who switch degrees every year in order to appreciate this.

In light of the indecisive nature of the modern day student, making them enrol in an entire years worth of courses so early seems a little silly. Considering the majority of degrees are between three and four years, students are essentially being asked to commit to at least one-quarter of their studies in advance. While students can always change their courses at a later date, there is no guarantee that there will still be vacancies. While careful thought and preparation may be put into courses for first semester, students may be inclined to simply jump on popular courses for second semester, embracing the ever so famous “tomorrows problem” ideology. Surely this will cause more problems than it solves in the long run. We must also remember that students are being asked to enrol at the beginning of the year, halfway through their longest holiday, when their brains are surely most dormant to academic life. I know from personal experience that my course selection in first semester will serve as a strong influence towards my course selection in second semester. Having to enrol early means that students will not have this luxury. For degrees that contain electives this dilemma is further magnified by the diversity of subjects they can choose. To compound the problem there also seemed to be a fairly high level of uncertainty on the dual enrolment matter. My Facebook feed was clogged up with status upon status questioning the validity of this scary myth. It is up for debate whether or not this reflects a lack of awareness in the student body as a whole, or simply my personal tendency to befriend those who are oblivious to important information. I would suggest that it was perhaps not flagged as clearly as it could have been. Overall, making students commit to a full year of subjects represented a large and immediately irreversible step that could potentially backfire. We will have to wait and see in the coming months whether or not this was a welltimed masterstroke, or a failed attempt to simplify a fairly troublesome system. Joseph Heller’s Catch 22 immediately springs to mind.

Yak Magazine - March 2013

THIS month we asked the kids on campus... • What was your New Year’s resolution, and did you keep it? • What are you most looking forward to about 2013?

Name: Aiden

Name: Ali

Name: Bec

Name: Sarah

Age: 24

Age: 21

Age: 20

Age: 19

Degree: I’m not actually

Degree: Speech Pathology

Degree: Communication/

Degree: Communication

studying, I’m working in IT services.

what was your new year’s resolution, and did you keep it? My New Year’s resolution was to move out of Ireland, so yes I did keep it.

What are you most looking forward to about 2013?

what was your new year’s resolution, and did you keep it? Get my act together and get organised was my resolution and I’m going alright with it so far.

What are you most looking forward to about 2013? Living on campus.

Law

what was your new year’s resolution, and did you keep it? I didn’t start on New Year’s Day, but I wanted to lose some weight, and I’ve stuck to it and lost 4 kg.

What are you most looking forward to about 2013? Meeting new people.

Australia.

what was your new year’s resolution, and did you keep it? My New Year’s Resolution was to make my hair awesome, because I bleached the crap out of it. I left a hair mask on for like an hour so I think I’ve kept it.

What are you most looking forward to about 2013? To improve my skills with work experience. I want to volunteer in Mongolia on an internship.

We know how important it is to get experience and build up a portfolio of your work. So if you’re a writer, a graphic designer, a photographer or otherwise enthusiastic individual, here’s a chance to get your work published in an awesome, shiny mag seen by thousands of students! Just email us at yakmagazine@newcastle.edu.au.

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