Yak Magazine | Issue 51 by Yak Media

Yak Magazine // 2020

YAK MAGAZINE 2020

Yak would like to acknowledge the Pambalong clan of the Awabakal people and the Darkinjung people, the traditional custodians of the land in which Yak is made and distributed. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Designed Designed by: by: Madelyn Gardiner

Yak Magazine // 2020

Editor’s Letter Welcome to Issue 51 – the first independently

Their motivation, determination, and

published edition of Yak Magazine.

persistence is the reason you’re now holding

Here at Yak, 2020 has been a big year

(or scrolling) through what is our very first issue as the “new” Yak Magazine. Thus, to

for the herd. After a wonderful eight-year

reflect on a key defining moment in not just

partnership, Yak separated from Student Central to become an independent student

Yak’s history, but one in all of our lives right now, the theme of this issue is Change.

media publication. Thankfully, despite all the changes and difficulties 2020 has brought us, Yak continues to operate thanks to the hard

On behalf of the Yak Media Herd, I would like to thank you – our readers, our followers, our

work and dedication of our student volunteer

staff – for your continuous support. Without

team.

you, Yak wouldn’t be here today.

Initially following the transition, Yak was going

Keighley and the Yak Team

all-digital – but our staff insisted that Yak just wouldn’t be Yak without a mag.

PS: Didn’t we tell you that this wasn’t 3

goodbye? ;)

Desi Designed by: Alice Kjoller

Yak Magazine // 2020

MEET THE TEAM

Keighley Bradford

Leanne Elliott

Josie Small

Ryan Reece

Managing Editor

Deputy Managing Editor

“Roaring 20’s vibe”

“Tumultuous”

Financial Officer Public Relations Officer “Look, no comment”

Public Relations Coordinator “Better than LEGO”

Tara Louis

Alice Kjoller

Phoebe Metcalfe

Ashleigh Marshall

Lead Promotions Officer

Lead Designer

Public Relations Officer

“Less challenging”

“Best one yet!”

“2019, but better”

Public Relations Officer “Freedom, travel, adventure”

Evette Bischof

Shelby Hutchinson

Bri Porter

Charlotte Lloyd

Public Relations Officer “Exciting, inspiring, difficult”

Staff Writer

“Fresh start”

“Lots of festivals”

“Lots of adventures”

Yak Magazine // 2020

“What did you think 2020 would be like?”

Yak Magazine // August 2018

Gemma Ferguson

Callum Pull

Hollie Hughes

Jasmin Thompson

Staff Writer

“Way more travel”

“Better than this”

“Not of Zoom”

“Anything but this”

Jayme Zimmermann

Xavier Williams

Bea King

Madelyn Gardiner

Staff Writer

Graphic Designer

“Not so lonely”

“Better than this”

“Spent in Japan”

“Safe and sound”

Daisy Peachman Graphic Designer “Not this bad” 5

Yak Magazine // 2020

A WAVE OF CHANGE

Shelby Hutchinson looks at the BLM protests and their wider effects on society. The death of George Floyd ignited a flame amongst millions and saw the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Although this flame has lingered for many years, millions have decided to take a stand against the mistreatment, abuse, and blatant racism which leads to these deaths across the globe.

or from diverse backgrounds, the platform to demand change and propose action to prevent more Indigenous deaths, and to receive justice for the deaths of those in the custody of the police. It was the kind of event where you had to be there to truly feel the power and impact of the impassioned cries for justice and an end to institutionalised racism. It was raw, with personal stories being recounted from Indigenous Australians who have experienced police brutality or knew someone who did.

The Newcastle protests against indigenous deaths in custody, organised by FISTT (Fighting in Solidarity Towards Treaties), gave Indigenous peoples, and people of colour

Yak Magazine // 2020

There were calls to change government policies in Australia which have long oppressed Indigenous Australians, such as abolishing offensive language laws and amending the Law Enforcements (Powers and Responsibilities) Act, and demands to reopen the inquests into over 400 deaths in custody, to arrest, charge and sentence police and correctional officers involved in the deaths. But, at the heart of the protest was the demand for justice and closure for the families, so the souls of those who died in custody can finally find peace.

leaving little to no excuses for this inequity to continue. There is emphasis on educating oneself on the prevalence of racism throughout history, evident in Australia’s history of the Stolen Generation, and the brutal oppression experienced by people of colour, all over the world. Action is being taken in workplaces and within family and friend groups to call out racism, whether it’s criticising the use of racial slurs, offensive jokes, or casual racism. These conversations, while uncomfortable and oftentimes exhausting, are necessary for encouraging empathy and unity.

The recent BLM protests have also had a ripple effect, with large corporations taking a stand in solidarity with the BLM movement by renaming, or removing, products with racist connotations or affiliations. The Nestle brand has finally announced the renaming of ‘Redskins’, a derogatory term to describe Native Americans, and ‘Chico’s’, a derogatory term for Latin Americans. Both of these lolly brands have had direct racist affiliations, with ‘Redskins’ previous wrapper designed with a Native American man in the traditional headdress.

A critical debate has also been held based on the existence of ‘white privilege’, a term used to describe privileges afforded to white people, such as not being deterred from their rights based on the colour of their skin. The recognition of these privileges, whether it is of your own or someone else’s, proves the long-standing prejudices which have existed against people of colour, which have been ingrained into powerful minds and systems, and which still exist today. The fight for justice has taken place on many fronts; but the fight is not over. We must continue to protest and reprimand the injustices; for people of colour, for indigenous deaths in custody, for George Floyd.

Companies such as Netflix have responded by removing a variety of movies and TV shows which present racist stereotypes. ‘Comedian’ Chris Lilley, for example, has had the majority of his problematic TV series removed from Netflix’s platform, including the vastly popular ‘Summer Heights High’ and ‘Angry Boys’, due to his use of black-face and offensive portrayals of non-white characters. Netflix later made a statement on Twitter saying, ‘When we say “Black Lives Matter”, we also mean “Black Storytelling matters”. Removing this kind of entertainment reinforces the idea that there is no place for offensive humour at the expense of people of colour.

Enough is enough. Silence is violence. Black Lives Matter.

Socially, there has been a shift in the way people approach taboo topics such as racism, but, no one can hide behind ignorance anymore,

Yak Magazine // 2020

A WORLD REVITALISED

Leanne Elliott and Jayme Zimmermann investigate how the pandemic lockdown has positively affected the environment globally. With COVID-19 causing a global lockdown,

uninhabitable due to the high levels of pollution.

mother nature has been rejuvenated. Water

This was seen majorly in the Venice Canals

and air quality have drastically improved, and

in Italy.

many species of animals are returning to local environments now that the human population

According to ABC News ‘…since the drastic

is remaining indoors due to isolation. Could

reduction of water traffic and tourism,

this pandemic just be what our environment

residents have observed the usually muddy

needed for us to wake up and realise how we

canals run with sparkling clear water with

as people majorly damage our environment on

swarms of fishes and the canal bottom clearly

a daily basis?

visible. “There are no boats, there is no traffic. Definitely, it is cleaner,” Venice resident Serguei

Due to tourism coming to a standstill and global

Michtchenko said.’

lockdowns being rolled out, waterways across the globe have slowly become less polluted.

Italy was one of the major countries affected

From fewer people, boats and waste being

by COVID-19 with a current estimated 267,000

around and in waterways it has allowed for

cases of the virus. The country going into

cleaner conditions and more marine wildlife

lockdown has allowed nature to flourish, with

to return to habitats that were for years

jellyfish being spotted in the Venice canals for the first time in years. Similarly, we have witnessed an improvement in air quality, in some cases, air pollution in some areas decreased so much it was detectable by satellite. There is also a suggestion that the lockdowns have reduced visible smog and atmospheric pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulphur dioxide. In India, a place renowned for its extreme air pollution, there are reports of people finally being able to

Yak Magazine // 2020

see the Himalayas after years of poor visibility

In economic terms, prolonged lockdown is not

caused by extreme air pollution.

sustainable, but if anything, it has definitely proven we need to reconsider our relationship

Air pollution has been attributed to millions

with this planet which we call home.

of deaths each year, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimating over 90% of the world’s population breathes polluted air. Moreover, there has been some suggestion that poor air quality may actually be linked to higher COVID-19 cases in some areas, meaning this inadvertent side effect of the lockdowns is definitely one of the more positive things to come out of 2020. Likewise, a study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air suggests cleaner air in the UK and parts of Europe as a result of lockdowns has resulted in 11,000 fewer deaths, as well as reducing cases of asthma, respiratory illness, and premature births. “Air pollution has intensified the pandemic, but the pandemic has — temporarily — cleaned the skies,” says National Geographic’s, Beth Gardener. “[T]he cleaner pandemic skies do show how fast we can bring down pollution when we reduce our burning of fossil fuels.” With regards to climate, some studies suggest we can expect a minor temperature increase over the next year or so due to the reduction of sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere, which will then be offset by a cooling effect caused by a reduction of nitrogen oxides. But for now, skywatchers from all over the globe are relishing the clearer and bluer skies. So, this then begs the question. What will happen when restrictions ease and lockdown is over? Will we try to maintain the current unpolluted environment, or, will things go back the way that they were?

Yak Magazine // 2020

FROM NEGATIVITY TO POSITIVITY Bri Porter and Charlotte Lloyd explore how unwanted change can be empowering.

Charlotte Nobody likes change; unwanted change,

This was my bittersweet change. Moving to

bittersweet change, even change you knew

Uni was something I always wanted to do,

was coming. It doesn’t make it easier, whether

something I had worked towards, and something

it’s expected or not. There are changes which seem negative, draining, and even upsetting,

I was excited for; yet I was seeing it in a negative light. I was trying to paint it in a certain way, to

such as leaving home, the unexpected break-up,

make my familiar life sit on a pedestal. Only

or making new friends. Whatever it is, change is always hard. But, often what we perceive as

after I moved did I realise how damaging this could be. The resistance I had also meant I had

a negative, can create a much needed positive

avoided talking about it. I then had to accept this

transformation.

new reality I was faced with.

The summer before I moved to Newcastle, I

Change for me was expected, though this didn’t

had established great relationships at work,

make it any easier, and it was only after I moved that I realised how important pushing myself

I had just been on the trip of a lifetime, and had just finished high school. My adult life was

was to my progress in life. At times, yes it was

great and the idea of leaving all of this seemed

hard, and to be honest, there were moments when I wanted to slip ever so easily back into the

stupid. Why would I leave something I loved, somewhere I was content? I had my comfort

familiar life I had at home, but without growth,

zone, and I didn’t want to penetrate it. Moving

we stay stuck. Change doesn’t always have to be

away from home, there were so many unknowns

the enemy, in fact, it can be quite empowering.

and uncertainties. Will I make friends? Will I enjoy Uni?

Magazine // 2020 YakYak Magazine // 2020

Bri Compared to Charlotte’s experience, mine

Change can bring enormous opportunities for

was quite different. A significant event which caused a great change to my personal life

personal growth and development. Personal growth can stagnate when the surroundings

was the sudden end to an almost four-year-

and mindset of an individual are continuously

long relationship. The relationship with my exgirlfriend wasn’t the healthiest, yet the break-up

negative. It’s a perfect chance to learn and become self-aware. Adopting a mindset which

was unexpected at the time. Just like any long-

does not fear change, but instead embraces it,

term relationship ending, it did take its toll on me

can make all the difference.

mentally. As dramatic as it sounds, I spent weeks doubting my own self-worth and wondered if I’d

Change is what produces new experiences,

ever find someone again.

opportunities, relationships, and friendships. Change doesn’t wait for you. The more you resist change, the harder it will be for you to

First loves are always the hardest. It’s the one that hurts the most. It’s the first person you did

accept and deal with it when it arrives. When you

everything with. It was the first kiss, the first

realise change can bring positivity, happiness, and is the foundation for personal growth, that

person you let in, the first person you said I love you to and meant it.

is when as an individual you can blossom. You have to dive straight in and embrace the fear. Life begins outside of your comfort zone. It is

Once I started to embrace the change, the positive opportunities which came from the

then that opportunities become endless.

end of a relationship were incessant. I travelled to Greece, focused on my studies at University, and gained new friendships. Thankfully, I am also now in a new and healthier relationship, which would never have happened if I was still in the toxic one. However, for me, a valuable and positive lesson that came from this negative situation was the start of my self-growth and self-love journey. I was able to find myself and develop even more confidence once the toxic relationship was over. I was able to discover what I was interested in, what my goals were, and who I want to be.

Yak Magazine // 2020

Are humanities degrees undervalued? Hollie Hughes and Gemma Ferguson discuss. NO - Hollie Hughes As part of a proposed higher education reform package entitled “Job-Ready Graduates”, the Government plans to alter the University fee system for Australian students so that from next year those who study in-demand courses – in fields such as STEM, education, and healthcare – will have their fees reduced.

significant financial losses due to the absence of International students sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The change will have a positive impact on both the economy and students themselves, as it will increase the number of individuals qualified to enter into fields desperately needing workers.

It is evident this policy has been put forward to encourage students to stimulate the economy post-COVID-19, and to encourage students to enroll into courses which have higher graduate employment rates; not because humanities degrees are undervalued. Here’s why:

3. The Government does recognise the place for humanities degrees within the tertiary education system. To assist students already enrolled in humanities degrees, no current student will pay increased fees and students enrolled in courses where costs are going up will have their fees frozen.

1. Government priorities have been defined by pre-pandemic modelling which shows 62% of employment growth over five years will be in health care, science, technology, education, and construction. The policy also aims to increase the graduate employment rate of 72.2%, which currently sits lower than the rate for vocational education at 78%.

Times change, industries expand and contract, some die out all together. These proposed changes to university fees are simply reflective of current times, and projected industry growth.

2. This policy offers financial stability to Australian Universities which are experiencing Designed by: Bea King

Yak Magazine // 2020

YES - Gemma Ferguson

These proposed changes are problematic because:

While the Government’s plans to change the fees associated with tertiary education is currently under investigation, the mere fact this proposal was even on the table proves the humanities are undervalued.

1. Not all students will make the switch, and some may opt-out of university altogether. This fee hike is shifting the focus away from the importance of education, and will force an already struggling generation further into debt.

Teaching, nursing, and STEM will be cheaper to study under this new plan, however, the cost of some humanities degrees may increase by a massive 113%. Prior to the proposal going to Senate inquiry, the Government did concede to lowering proposed increases for psychology and social work, however, the fate of other humanities degrees remains uncertain.

2. There will be people who pick these cheaper degrees, and, after graduating, progress on to fields where they’re guaranteed work. And while financial/job stability is great, is it worth it if you’re not following your passion? A creative mind won’t be happy in traditional employment. 3. Disregarding the arts is a dangerous habit which could lead to further financial cuts, to university staff/resources, and to the creative services you know and love (hasn’t the ABC suffered enough?). If we allow this attitude to continue, this price change won’t be the last one we see.

Despite the Coalition stating the changes are reflective of industry growth, research suggests mathematics and science graduates have almost the same job outcomes to those studying humanities. So, while creatives are certainly valued in broader society, it seems they’re dramatically underestimated by the Government.

Look, I get it, we need more teachers and nurses, and I understand lowering the cost of certain degrees will help these understaffed industries get back on their feet. But, does it have to come at the cost of other professions? Or, is it just a result of the current Government undervaluing creatives?

Yak Magazine // 2020

2020

Olivia Beveridge-March consults the stars for guidance. SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

October 23 – November 21

November 22 – December 21

You enjoy testing the limits Scorpio, and this time around it’s paying off. Making a big change to your physical circumstances will result in a new level of contentment.

It’s time to slow down and find a balance between your work life and personal life. Find time for yourself and friends – work isn’t everything.

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

December 22 – January 19

January 20 – February 18

You have a habit of spreading yourself too thin – now is the time to change that. Don’t be afraid to say no to people or things that no longer benefit you.

A small change in your mindset can lead to big changes in your career. Communication is key at this time – don’t be afraid to seek the attention you deserve.

PISCES

ARIES

February 19 – March 20

March 21 – April 19

Things are not what they appear. What once seemed obvious is now less clear. Caution is needed – don’t let jealousy get the best of you.

You have found yourself stuck in a leadership rut the past few months, but that is about to change. Now is the time to take initiative and step into a leadership role.

Yak Magazine // 2020

HOROSCOPE TAURUS

GEMINI

April 20 – May 20

May 21 – June 20

A major shift in direction will challenge your stubborn behaviour. Be prepared to adapt the course you’ve set for yourself.

You are entering a time of self-reflection. The changes you make now will have a karmic reaction for the months ahead, so choose your change wisely.

CANCER

LEO

June 21 – July 22

July 23 – August 22

New beginnings are in the cards for you Cancer. Don’t be afraid to initiate new things in your relationships.

After a period of insecurity, you have a new wave of confidence heading your way. The outdoors will be the place to be.

VIRGO

LIBRA

August 23 – September 22

September 23 – October 22

Your studies will be your main priority during this time. Don’t shy away from analysing and re-evaluating your theories and ideas.

You’ve been weighing up your options and now is the time to make a choice. Changes in your social life should be embraced.

Yak Magazine // 2020

Corona Chronicles

By Jasmin Thompson

Balancing Act

Stagnant yet hopeful

Isolation Beard

in a world of difference.

We zoom on Monday,

Exploring the times, I sample these COVID days –

a name in place of your face,

soon to forget normal life.

‘Cameras on please’. Your screen lights up, full of hair. The modern day ‘Castaway’.

23-19! We’ve got a 23-19! The familiar urge Hidden Smile

to splutter, to sneeze, to sniff

I’m beaming at you,

in the checkout line has never been so stressful.

your face scrunches in return.

It’s just hay fever, I swear.

Uncomfortable. Then I remember the mask, manic eyes staring you down.

How will people know I’m cool? How will people know I’m cool? I gaze at myself in the visor mirror – wait. This mask that protects also hides my promised edge – the steel arc through my septum.

Yak Magazine // 2020 Yak Magazine // 2020

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Yak Magazine | Issue 51

Articles inside

Mass Debate

From Negativity To Positivity

A World Revitalised

A Wave Of Change

Editor’s Letter