Celebrating UTS Alumni Around the Globe Asia Perspective How UTS Is Poised for Growth in the Asian Century

UTS: ALUMNI ISSUE 9 spring 2013 Celebrating UTS Alumni around the globe asia perspective How UTS is poised for growth in the Asian Century

towering 10 true leader Meet the 2013 Alumni Zimbabwe activist and Excellence Award winners 2012 Sydney Peace Prize winner Sekai Holland T from the vice-chancellor Introducing the global vision latest TOWER app! and creative insight As part of UTS’s vision to be a world-leading university of technology, we are developing a truly You can now download Issue 9 Spring 2013 FREE internationalised academic institution with broad and deep relationships across the globe.

from the App Store (iPad) or Google Play (Android). ince taking the reins at UTS, one of studies, well above the sector average of of thinking can improve their organisations. my key goals has been to champion 10 per cent. We want to lift that figure higher We are also fortunate to host the Creative Sthe vision to be a world-leading because we see it as an important symbol of Industries Innovation Centre and to co-lead As UTS celebrates its 25th anniversary, university of technology. That really puts the UTS education model. the Creative Digital Innovation Partnership. 2013 has already been a stellar the spotlight on our education, our research As I travelled to six countries in Asia Part of this focus on creativity will be our data year for the University, with exciting and, importantly, our people. We want our recently for the annual UTS international mining project looking at how we use our students to see themselves as global citizens events, I was struck by the positivity internal data to inform and improve our own developments on the $1 billion City with intercultural capabilities in language surrounding BUiLD and our international processes, and working with businesses to Campus Master Plan, seven alumni and culture. We want them to promote internships. Many offshore alumni are clearly help them understand the power of their data. reunion events across Asia, the 2013 the idea of an almost seamless world, keen to align with UTS to help our students Looking ahead to 2014, we will welcome Alumni Excellence Awards, and much particularly between Australia and Asia. gain work experience and integrate culturally. the opening of three new buildings as part of As part of this big picture, UTS aims to It has been a privilege to celebrate UTS’s our City Campus Master Plan, each of which more you can read about in TOWER. develop a truly international academic 25th birthday this year with these alumni. will make dramatic architectural, education institution with broad and deep relationships Many of them have asked what they can do and research statements. Such change and In the TOWER app, meet Craig Webb, across the globe. Our Internationalisation to assist UTS – and my response has been growth underline the remarkable evolution a Partner at Los Angeles-based Gehry Strategy is a key part of fulfilling these clear: be champions and representatives of of UTS as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Partners, led by world-renowned architect ambitions and refining our focus. This agenda the University., sell the brand name UTS in It is wonderful to see how the University has many elements, with one vital component the market place. A university is judged by has grown and become more outwardly Frank Gehry, for his insights into the being our Key Technology Partnership the quality of its graduates. focused and confident. We are really on revolutionary Gehry-designed Dr Chau Program. It allows us to build high-quality the move, and people around the world are Chak Wing Building, which will firmly research links with overseas institutions. Creative intelligence recognising our dynamism. position the UTS Business School at the That is clearly where Asia comes into Creativity is another UTS strength. As I see I thank our alumni for playing a vital the picture. We recognise there is a growing it, creative intelligence involves an ability to role in enabling UTS to remain on such a very vanguard of business education in capacity in the region to fund and conduct think outside your own area of discipline and positive trajectory. It’s your University to Australia – due for completion in 2014. research, so we must leverage our research find links to other disciplines. This enables cherish and grow. T capabilities and find ways to collaborate. you to contemplate visionary issues or new Plus, the winner of the 2012 Sydney Peace UTS has already created four joint research ideas to help revolutionise the way things Prize – and proud UTS alumna – Sekai centres: the Joint Research Centre for Data are done – from concept development to Holland shares a glimpse inside her life Mining and Service Technology with Beijing marketing and, finally, commercialisation. Institute of Technology; the Joint Research The UTS: Creative Intelligence Strategy Professor Ross Milbourne, Vice-Chancellor as a peacemaker and democracy advocate Centre for Smart Cities with Shanghai means we are contributing to this evolution. in Zimbabwe, her experiences studying at University; the International Centre for We have great digital and creative capabilities UTS and ongoing connection with Australia, Communication in Health Care with the on campus, while the University’s location Hong Kong Polytechnic University; and the gives us an edge, courtesy of proximity and what winning the Peace Prize means. Joint Research Centre for Cyber-Physical to about 240 tech start-ups in our part of You can also view TOWER online at www.utstower.com.au Authentication with Huazhong University Sydney. That figure is set to quadruple in the stay in touch If you reside in Australia, you can still receive your printed copy of of Science and Technology. These are great next few years. The upshot is that creative TOWER. Simply enter your details at www.alumni.uts.edu.au to alliances and they complement our desire to intelligence must always be front and centre As valued UTS alumni, you request the print edition, which will be mailed to your address. ensure our students engage with the rest of of any future plans for UTS. the world as much as possible. Through courses such as our new are part of a global network Other wonderful programs also play a part. Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and of professionals. To stay Since 2010, for example, UTS’s international Innovation, we provide an educational leadership program BUiLD (Beyond UTS experience in which creativity can flourish. I

connected with all the latest International Leadership Development) see this degree contributing to the creation of aylor alumni news, and to ensure has seen UTS students develop their global the next class of Australia’s entrepreneurs. knowledge and leadership skills through UTS is also fostering research links around your details are up-to-date, offshore experiences, such as orphanage the creative industries. Our researchers and visit www.alumni.uts.edu.au volunteering to micro-finance study tours. students are engaging with small, medium About one in four of our students has and multinational creative businesses to show mage by Jesse T an international experience as part of their them how creative intelligence and new ways I

3 T from the vice-chancellor Introducing the global vision latest TOWER app! and creative insight As part of UTS’s vision to be a world-leading university of technology, we are developing a truly You can now download Issue 9 Spring 2013 FREE internationalised academic institution with broad and deep relationships across the globe. from the App Store (iPad) or Google Play (Android). ince taking the reins at UTS, one of studies, well above the sector average of of thinking can improve their organisations. my key goals has been to champion 10 per cent. We want to lift that figure higher We are also fortunate to host the Creative Sthe vision to be a world-leading because we see it as an important symbol of Industries Innovation Centre and to co-lead As UTS celebrates its 25th anniversary, university of technology. That really puts the UTS education model. the Creative Digital Innovation Partnership. 2013 has already been a stellar the spotlight on our education, our research As I travelled to six countries in Asia Part of this focus on creativity will be our data year for the University, with exciting and, importantly, our people. We want our recently for the annual UTS international mining project looking at how we use our students to see themselves as global citizens events, I was struck by the positivity internal data to inform and improve our own developments on the $1 billion City with intercultural capabilities in language surrounding BUiLD and our international processes, and working with businesses to Campus Master Plan, seven alumni and culture. We want them to promote internships. Many offshore alumni are clearly help them understand the power of their data. reunion events across Asia, the 2013 the idea of an almost seamless world, keen to align with UTS to help our students Looking ahead to 2014, we will welcome Alumni Excellence Awards, and much particularly between Australia and Asia. gain work experience and integrate culturally. the opening of three new buildings as part of As part of this big picture, UTS aims to It has been a privilege to celebrate UTS’s our City Campus Master Plan, each of which more you can read about in TOWER. develop a truly international academic 25th birthday this year with these alumni. will make dramatic architectural, education institution with broad and deep relationships Many of them have asked what they can do and research statements. Such change and In the TOWER app, meet Craig Webb, across the globe. Our Internationalisation to assist UTS – and my response has been growth underline the remarkable evolution a Partner at Los Angeles-based Gehry Strategy is a key part of fulfilling these clear: be champions and representatives of of UTS as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Partners, led by world-renowned architect ambitions and refining our focus. This agenda the University., sell the brand name UTS in It is wonderful to see how the University has many elements, with one vital component the market place. A university is judged by has grown and become more outwardly Frank Gehry, for his insights into the being our Key Technology Partnership the quality of its graduates. focused and confident. We are really on revolutionary Gehry-designed Dr Chau Program. It allows us to build high-quality the move, and people around the world are Chak Wing Building, which will firmly research links with overseas institutions. Creative intelligence recognising our dynamism. position the UTS Business School at the That is clearly where Asia comes into Creativity is another UTS strength. As I see I thank our alumni for playing a vital the picture. We recognise there is a growing it, creative intelligence involves an ability to role in enabling UTS to remain on such a very vanguard of business education in capacity in the region to fund and conduct think outside your own area of discipline and positive trajectory. It’s your University to Australia – due for completion in 2014. research, so we must leverage our research find links to other disciplines. This enables cherish and grow. T capabilities and find ways to collaborate. you to contemplate visionary issues or new Plus, the winner of the 2012 Sydney Peace UTS has already created four joint research ideas to help revolutionise the way things Prize – and proud UTS alumna – Sekai centres: the Joint Research Centre for Data are done – from concept development to Holland shares a glimpse inside her life Mining and Service Technology with Beijing marketing and, finally, commercialisation. Institute of Technology; the Joint Research The UTS: Creative Intelligence Strategy Professor Ross Milbourne, Vice-Chancellor as a peacemaker and democracy advocate Centre for Smart Cities with Shanghai means we are contributing to this evolution. in Zimbabwe, her experiences studying at University; the International Centre for We have great digital and creative capabilities UTS and ongoing connection with Australia, Communication in Health Care with the on campus, while the University’s location Hong Kong Polytechnic University; and the gives us an edge, courtesy of proximity and what winning the Peace Prize means. Joint Research Centre for Cyber-Physical to about 240 tech start-ups in our part of You can also view TOWER online at www.utstower.com.au Authentication with Huazhong University Sydney. That figure is set to quadruple in the stay in touch If you reside in Australia, you can still receive your printed copy of of Science and Technology. These are great next few years. The upshot is that creative TOWER. Simply enter your details at www.alumni.uts.edu.au to alliances and they complement our desire to intelligence must always be front and centre As valued UTS alumni, you request the print edition, which will be mailed to your address. ensure our students engage with the rest of of any future plans for UTS. the world as much as possible. Through courses such as our new are part of a global network Other wonderful programs also play a part. Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and of professionals. To stay Since 2010, for example, UTS’s international Innovation, we provide an educational leadership program BUiLD (Beyond UTS experience in which creativity can flourish. I connected with all the latest International Leadership Development) see this degree contributing to the creation of aylor alumni news, and to ensure has seen UTS students develop their global the next class of Australia’s entrepreneurs. knowledge and leadership skills through UTS is also fostering research links around your details are up-to-date, offshore experiences, such as orphanage the creative industries. Our researchers and visit www.alumni.uts.edu.au volunteering to micro-finance study tours. students are engaging with small, medium About one in four of our students has and multinational creative businesses to show mage by Jesse T an international experience as part of their them how creative intelligence and new ways I

3 celebrating 25 years

Issue 9, spring 2013

TOWER is published twice a year for alumni and Global vision and creative insight 3 friends of the University of Technology, Sydney With Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ross Milbourne (UTS). The views expressed are not necessarily those of the University. TOWER is produced by the Newsbites 6 UTS External Relations Office. Keep up-to-date with the latest UTS news P +61 2 9514 9861 F +61 2 9514 9872 E [email protected] www.alumni.uts.edu.au Mind the gap: company disclosure 10 UTS External Relations Office discrepencies not sustainable Director: Jane Westbrook The need for clearer reporting guidance Managing Editor: Rosanne Hunt Editor: Emma Squires-McCarthy The Towering 10 11 Communications Manager: Courtney Goddard The 2013 Alumni Excellence Award winners 16

Editorial Advisory Committee: Chair: Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill Purcell The greatest view 16 Committee Members: Robert Button, Melanie Withnall, Mark Lillis, Jenna Price James Gulliver Hancock’s epic illustration mission Contents Contributors At the movies 18 Vice-Chancellor Professor Ross Milbourne, Martijn Boersma, Fraser Torpy, The talented team behind animation studio Animal Logic Robert Button, Peter Switzer, Lucinda Schmidt, Cameron Cooper, 28 Rosemary Ann Ogilvie, Steve Meacham, Mark Abernethy, Bina Brown, Penny Pryor, Roger Balch, Lesley Parker Sick building syndrome: how indoor 21 plants can help clear the air The growing push for more sustainable buildings Published by Switzer Media + Publishing

Suite 2, Level 1, 36-40 Queen Street, 22 Woollahra, NSW 2025 Stories we tell Paperback writers: UTS alumni authors in print P +61 2 9327 8622 F +61 2 9327 4366

E [email protected] www.switzer.com.au Creating futures 26 Managing Director Maureen Jordan General Manager Alex Switzer 26 40K founder Clary Castrission’s entrepreneurial journey Editor Renee Carl Designer Paloma Drehs

Photography Steve Brown, Kasia Werstak, Nick Cubbin, Trevor King Cover illustration James Gulliver Hancock A visionary campus 28 The latest developments in the City Campus Master Plan 22 32 This publication is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticism or review, as permitted under the A heroine and a healer 32 Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without Meet 2012 Sydney Peace Prize winner Sekai Holland written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the Publisher. While all reasonable attempts at factual accuracy have been made, Global networks 34 Switzer Media + Publishing and UTS accept no responsibility for any Forging relationships: UTS’s Internationalisation Strategy errors contained in this publication. Printed by Offset Alpine Printing.

Bridge climb 36 The groundbreaking robots developed by UTS

For the love of the game 38 With the NRL’s Head of Football, Todd Greenberg

• Become a friend on Facebook: www.facebook.com/UTSAlumni Driven to succeed 40 • Sign up to our Twitter feeds: Petrina Coventry on leadership and giving back https://twitter.com/UTSEngage • Join our Linkedin group: Braveheart 42 http://au.linkedin.com/groups?gid=5064633 The power of education to transform lives

4 5 celebrating 25 years

Issue 9, spring 2013

Suite 2, Level 1, 36-40 Queen Street, 22 Woollahra, NSW 2025 Stories we tell Paperback writers: UTS alumni authors in print P +61 2 9327 8622 F +61 2 9327 4366

Bridge climb 36 The groundbreaking robots developed by UTS

For the love of the game 38 With the NRL’s Head of Football, Todd Greenberg

4 5 T newsbites back to the A faculty ‘Study junky’ firefighter future for the 21st receives Queen’s honours

By Penny Pryor century By Penny Pryor

UTS came about as an By Penny Pryor UTS Alumni have again featured on the amalgamation of six founding institutions Queen’s Birthday Honours list, with nine 25 years ago. As a result, a number of Four months into her new role as Dean of former students receiving honours. alumni are not graduates of UTS, but its the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, One of the more recent graduates to predecessor institutions. They are still very Professor Mary Spongberg is enjoying the receive an award is Chief Superintendent much a part of the alumni community rigours that the job has brought. Chris Lewis, Assistant Director Community and it’s important that they understand “It’s challenging, but interesting. I think Safety and Research at Fire and Rescue NSW. that even though the name of their higher it is a challenging time to be in higher The award goes to only a handful of learning institute may have changed, they education generally and especially being fire fighters who have gone the extra mile can still benefit from the strong network of dean in a faculty of arts, there are a lot of when it comes to service, performance and UTS alumni. challenges facing the arts,” she says. initiative during the course of their careers. To help maintain that connection, Professor Spongberg joined UTS from “I was very pleased but I think it was or reconnect in some instances, UTS Macquarie University, where she was more a reflection of the work done by the launched its Origins project in mid July Professor of Modern History and Associate teams I’ve led,” he says. UTS launches new creative this year. The goal of the project is to Dean of Research. She started her career Dr Lewis completed a Graduate accelerant is being used. That helps us to reconnect with former graduates of as an academic at Sydney University, Certificate in Adult Education at UTS last quickly rule whether the fire is accidental.” intelligence degree the founding institutes – Acupuncture where her post-doctorate studies focused year but calls himself a “study junky”. He Another research project, which Colleges (Australia), Balmain Teachers on HIV Aids, before moving to Macquarie has an MBA (Deakin University) and a involved UTS, explored whether the With the University’s 25th anniversary can be combined with professional College (later William Balmain College of University. “When I moved to Macquarie in Masters in Applied Science (Fire Safety introduction of Reduced Fire Risk cigarettes celebrations well underway, the corridors are degrees across all seven faculties, it Advanced Education), Ku-ring-gai College 1995 as a history lecturer, I had to reinvent Design) from University of Western Sydney, had actually reduced the incidence of abuzz with news of a new multi-disciplinary enables students to think and work across of Advanced Education, New South Wales myself: I developed an interest in history,” in addition to a Doctorate in Public Policy discarded cigarettes causing fires. That combined degree, which was introduced to traditional professional and academic fields Institute of Technology, Sydney College she says. (Charles Sturt University) and at least three project found that while it was less likely prospective students on Open Day. in new ways. of Advanced Education – Institute of Dr Spongberg has tried to expand the other graduate certificates. for a thrown-away cigarette to start a fire, it Commencing in 2014, the Bachelor of Designed specifically as an accelerated Technical and Adult Education, and the notion of what history is, particularly He undertook the Graduate Certificate in was still possible. Creative Intelligence and Innovation is an double degree, it can also be completed Sydney College of Arts – School of Design. historical writing in relation to gender. Adult Education last year to equip himself Dr Lewis also led the investigation and Australian first and will clearly position full-time in only one year longer than Deputy Director, Alumni and “It’s a very broad genre and women have better for the training requirements of his research into the Quakers Hill Nursing UTS at the forefront of creative and the core degree with which it combines. Communications Rosanne Hunt says it contributed to it in lots of ways, and that’s role. “I realised that if my aim is to engage Home fire, the outcome of which was a innovation-led thinking, alongside a small Acceleration is achieved through six intense is very important for these graduates to moved me to think about historical fiction, with firefighters and with the community change in sprinkler legislation for nursing group of leading international institutions. winter and summer schools alongside the reconnect with UTS. especially when you have writers such as to change how people behave then I need homes in NSW. All nursing homes now “Word of the new degree has excited so core degree, with one additional year that “Some of these people feel they have Hilary Mantel producing works such as Wolf to understand how adults learn – it’s about require sprinkler systems, regardless of age. many – they want to know what it is, how it’s is very much focused on launching these lost that important connection as their Hall that are satisfying as both history and changing people’s behaviours,” he says. Other UTS alumni to receive honours different, and what job it will lead to,” says students into their professional careers. institution no longer exists,” Hunt says. fiction. And I think that’s a space historians Dr Lewis previously managed the Fire were: John Berryman (AM), Andrew Downie the Faculty of Design, Architecture and “We do not want to hold these students “We hope to connect with as many need to think more about,” she explains. Investigation and Research Unit and has (OAM), Eileen Henderson (OAM), Margaret Building’s (DAB) Associate Dean (Teaching back,” adds McWhinnie. “We want them to former graduates as possible, so they can In her new role Dr Spongberg is conducted research projects with the Hunter (OAM), Bruce Irvine (OAM), Patricia and Learning) Louise McWhinnie. “My unfold their potential as soon as possible.” feel part of the UTS alumni community committed to building a faculty for the School of Chemistry and Forensic Science Kelly (PSM), Shirley Phelps (OAM) and Chief response is usually that asking what job this Commissioned by the Vice-Chancellor and enjoy the same benefits as current 21st century, one that is committed to new at UTS. UTS students assisted in a study Superintendent Anthony Trichter (APM). degree will lead to is the wrong question.” Professor Ross Milbourne as a key strategy graduates,” she adds. and innovative modes of pedagogy, public in accelerant detection canines, or sniffer Full details can be found at www.alumni.uts. McWhinnie and her colleagues who will in defining and differentiating UTS’s “This project is long overdue and it’s engagement, social and cultural research dogs. “[They were used] to detect when an edu.au/page.aspx?pid=811 teach into the program expect its graduates vision, the course has been overseen in its important to acknowledge the contribution and creative practice. to: “go out and define the jobs of the future”. conceptualisation and writing by a core of so many graduates of prior institutions “The real goal is to try and make sure the The course encompasses high-level critical team: Associate Dean Louise McWhinnie to the development of the unique aspects faculty is geared towards the new learning and creative thinking, invention, complexity, (DAB) and Professor Kees Dorst (DAB), of UTS we enjoy now. Once verified, environment that’s facing us,” she says. London calling innovation, future scenario building and Dr Tanja Golja (Office of the Deputy graduates can receive a commemorative Dr Spongberg is also currently working entrepreneurship; leading-edge capabilities Vice-Chancellor, Teaching, Learning and Certificate of Recognition.” on a global project in New York, called the Calling all UK-based alumni! UTS is hosting an inaugural alumni event in London to that are highly valued in the globalised world. Equity) and Hael Kobayashi (UTS: Creative Students of the founding institutions can Female Biography Project, which is based on celebrate the University’s 25th anniversary. Several key components differentiate Intelligence) and supported by leading reconnect via www.alumni.uts.edu.au/origins, the work of 18th century feminist Mary Hays. The event will feature a public lecture by distinguished alumnus of UTS, Professor this degree. First, it is a combined degree, so academics from all seven UTS faculties. email [email protected] or call (02) 9514 9861. Martin Bean, Vice-Chancellor of The Open University in the UK. UTS Vice-Chancellor it can only be undertaken in conjunction Fundamental to the degree is trans- Professor Ross Milbourne will also be in attendance. with one of 18 core professional degrees on disciplinarity – designed to build students’ Attendees will enjoy a keynote address, Q&A session and networking drinks. Please offer at UTS. This means that students work ability to work in not only their own, but spread the word among your alumni contacts in the UK. We welcome the opportunity to within both their chosen core discipline also across and between other disciplines, connect with our valued alumni and look forward to seeing you in London in 2014. and creative intelligence and innovation, and enabling graduates with creative Event details: which not only informs, but also develops intelligence competencies to navigate across Date: Tuesday 18 March 2014 completely new forms of thinking and the rapidly accelerating world of change that Time: 6pm to 8pm application. Additionally, as the degree they will enter upon graduation. Venue: Australia House, Strand, London, WC2B 4LA.

6 7 T newsbites back to the A faculty ‘Study junky’ firefighter future for the 21st receives Queen’s honours

By Penny Pryor century By Penny Pryor

6 7 T newsbites UTS Alumni: Young entrepreneurs on supporting the international stage industry uts flies By Penny Pryor placements the flag UTS alumna Samantha Dybac was one of 22 young entrepreneurs selected to represent Australia had 20 representatives at the Australia at the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance (G20 YEA) Summit in Russia this year. conference and another UTS alumna – As UTS celebrates its 25th anniversary, for digital Dybac (pictured, top right) graduated with a Bachelor of Business from UTS in 2002 and Bachelor of Arts in Communication graduate it’s exciting to see alumni engaging with founded marketing, communications and public relations company Sammway last year, Elisa Limburg (pictured, top left) – was UTS by providing practical experience in industries where she is currently head of strategy and relationships. She is a big believer in encouraging selected to go but was unable to attend due professional disciplines for undergraduates. young women to make their start in business and is the ‘NSW Crusader’ for the League of to work commitments. Limburg attended A number now successfully run small A proposal, co-led by UTS and the Extraordinary Women, an organisation of young women who run their own businesses. the 2012 Summit in Mexico and will be to medium enterprises (SMEs) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, to Dybac was encouraged by the fact that half of the Australian delegates at the Summit in involved in organising the 2014 conference. professional practices. These alumni establish Australia’s own Silicon Valley, has Russia were female – the highest female participation rate by any country. For Dybac, being able to attend the recognise that it is not only the student been chosen by a pre-eminent national “Attending the summit, I found that very few young entrepreneurs are driven solely by Summit in Russia and represent Australia who gains from the engagement, but the panel of business and research leaders, commercial benefit,” she says. “A successful entrepreneur is one where the money isn’t the this year was an honour. businesses are rewarded too. from 50 bids nationally. driving force, but is a result of what they are doing. Passion is a key trait.” “The primary focus of the summit was Several SME partners and directors were The two organisations will lead almost 60 G20 YEA was established to convene every year prior to the G20 conference, with to bring together thought leaders and keen to share their positive experience with partners across NSW, Tasmania, Queensland, the intention of showcasing young entrepreneurs to the G20 member nations. It was ‘doers’ from all over the world to discuss interns and graduates. A number of common the ACT and Victoria in the Creative Digital established in 2010 and in 2014 the summit will be held in Australia. ways in which to influence government themes emerge. UTS alumni in SMEs are Innovation Partnership (CDIP). Dybac says her experience at UTS helped her with solid foundations in the basics, and policymakers in areas such as keen to offer the practical support that they The initiative, part of the former Federal such as goal setting and time management. It also firmly established her desire to look for youth unemployment, education and themselves experienced at UTS, knowing Government’s $1 billion Plan for Australian personal satisfaction and fulfilment in her career, not just financial reward. entrepreneurial growth,” she says. how important this is for professional Jobs package, aims to drive growth and jobs development. The value that young aspiring in creative digital industries. professionals bring to an SME employer in Mathew Klintfält, Director of Swedac, The CDIP will not only grow jobs in terms of fresh ideas, new perspectives and an engineering company specialising the new and emerging creative digital UTS in action enthusiasm is frequently mentioned. The in siphonic roof drainage, did studies in industries space but also help define career chance to take on an intern for a fixed term at Engineering followed by a Business degree paths for students and job seekers that may to educate a reasonable rate, or in some cases at no cost, at UTS. Klintfält is proud that his firm was not yet exist, says UTS Vice-Chancellor is valuable for SMEs. As such it also presents a responsible for designing the siphonic Professor Ross Milbourne. Afghan women low risk business opportunity. stormwater system on the new UTS Yura “A unique, national collaboration of Ben Casey (pictured below, middle) Mudang student residences on Harris Street. start-ups, SMEs, global firms, government studied mechanical engineering studies He believes his role is to give interns and researchers, the CDIP will accelerate Pictured: Dr Nina Burridge (third from left) visited Nasima Rahmani (centre) in the 1990s and was inspired in his exposure to the industry. take-up of digital technologies and services, and GIHE students in Kabul, 2012 own internship, where he was able to One of the benefits of a smaller firm is innovation, and creative content across all contribute to a design project saving the that students can be exposed to a variety sectors of the Australian economy,” he says. By Robert Button Women’s Empowerment Centre to support “We hope also in the future to seek some company $300,000 per annum. Casey of different projects. Klintfält’s company “For this we need a well-educated, agile and women seeking higher education. funding from AusAid to help grow the went on to develop Central Milling, an SME is currently supporting three engineering future-focused workforce and growing UTS will soon provide support to CCCS researcher Dr Nina Burridge education initiatives we undertake with specialising in mineral size reduction for interns and values the “access to resources stream of inspired university graduates. UTS the Gawharshad Institute of Higher visited Kabul in 2012 and saw first-hand Afghanistan,” she says. “In the meantime the agricultural and industrial sectors. at a reasonable rate”. is certainly well placed to meet this challenge. Education in Afghanistan with education the conditions in which Afghan women the CCS has approved a small grant for Casey regularly accepts “only UTS” Richard White was a student on the “The CDIP is perfectly timed for UTS. opportunities for young women who have struggle to learn. She says students were some research to be conducted with engineering interns to his business in Master of Business in IT Management Recently we became a board member long struggled in the face of war, Taliban hungry for access to technology that women in Kabul to understand their views Cowra, country NSW. He values the program and CEO of an IT software of Cumulus, an exclusive international repression and social upheaval. would bring precious online open-access and aspirations related to women’s rights freshness, enthusiasm and the new company employing around 20 people confederacy of design schools fostering A memorandum of understanding (MOU) resources into their reach. past and present.” perspectives that students bring. in 2000 when he began taking on IT a revolution in creative innovation has been signed that will pave the way for UTS “UTS colleagues and I are exploring UTS Deputy Vice-Chancellor interns. White focuses his selection on education and entrepreneurship. And we to provide access to online lectures, resources options with our library to determine how (International) Professor William Purcell “undergraduate industry placements can also announce an Australian first – our and grow the exchange of ideas between we could assist the Institute with resources,” says the support being offered to the and graduate students from UTS”. His new undergraduate degree commencing academics and students in the two countries. Dr Burridge says. “In the future, if the political Institute was a reflection of the University’s company, WiseTech Global, now employs 2014 – the Bachelor of Creative Intelligence Instrumental in establishing the MOU climate permits, we would hope some level commitment to raising education standards more than 300 people, many of whom are and Innovation.” were researchers with the UTS Centre for of academic exchange could take place. internationally and its values of social justice. UTS graduates. Australia’s Creative Digital Industries Cosmopolitan Civil Societies (CCS) and UN “CCS is highly supportive of the kind of “Protecting the important progress that Alumni who would like to know more about the are among the fastest growing industries Peace scholar Nasima Rahmani who holds work Nasima is undertaking – it is literally has been made in recent years in women’s benefits of taking on an enthusiastic aspiring in the economy, growing by 2.8 per cent a UTS Masters of Laws and was last year all about building civil societies in global education in Afghanistan is essential,” professional in their workplace can contact the a year over 2006-2011, outstripping total awarded the Chancellor’s Alumni Award communities, advocating for human rights Professor Purcell says. “UTS is proud to UTS Careers Service on (02) 9514 1471, email Australian workforce growth of two per cent for Excellence. and social justice.” support the work of Nasima – truly one of our [email protected] or visit www.uts.edu.au/ by 40 per cent. Partners are now working Since returning to Afghanistan, Rahmani Dr Burridge says the next step would be most courageous and inspiring alumni.” partners-and-community/working-uts/recruit/ with the new Federal Government to ensure supported the co-ed Gawharshad Institute, to seek out academics willing to disseminate services-employers continued support for the program. established by Dr Sima Samarand, and the their work including lectures and slides. Reproduced with permission from UTS Newsroom.

8 9 T newsbites UTS Alumni: Young entrepreneurs on supporting the international stage industry uts flies By Penny Pryor placements the flag UTS alumna Samantha Dybac was one of 22 young entrepreneurs selected to represent Australia had 20 representatives at the Australia at the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance (G20 YEA) Summit in Russia this year. conference and another UTS alumna – As UTS celebrates its 25th anniversary, for digital Dybac (pictured, top right) graduated with a Bachelor of Business from UTS in 2002 and Bachelor of Arts in Communication graduate it’s exciting to see alumni engaging with founded marketing, communications and public relations company Sammway last year, Elisa Limburg (pictured, top left) – was UTS by providing practical experience in industries where she is currently head of strategy and relationships. She is a big believer in encouraging selected to go but was unable to attend due professional disciplines for undergraduates. young women to make their start in business and is the ‘NSW Crusader’ for the League of to work commitments. Limburg attended A number now successfully run small A proposal, co-led by UTS and the Extraordinary Women, an organisation of young women who run their own businesses. the 2012 Summit in Mexico and will be to medium enterprises (SMEs) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, to Dybac was encouraged by the fact that half of the Australian delegates at the Summit in involved in organising the 2014 conference. professional practices. These alumni establish Australia’s own Silicon Valley, has Russia were female – the highest female participation rate by any country. For Dybac, being able to attend the recognise that it is not only the student been chosen by a pre-eminent national “Attending the summit, I found that very few young entrepreneurs are driven solely by Summit in Russia and represent Australia who gains from the engagement, but the panel of business and research leaders, commercial benefit,” she says. “A successful entrepreneur is one where the money isn’t the this year was an honour. businesses are rewarded too. from 50 bids nationally. driving force, but is a result of what they are doing. Passion is a key trait.” “The primary focus of the summit was Several SME partners and directors were The two organisations will lead almost 60 G20 YEA was established to convene every year prior to the G20 conference, with to bring together thought leaders and keen to share their positive experience with partners across NSW, Tasmania, Queensland, the intention of showcasing young entrepreneurs to the G20 member nations. It was ‘doers’ from all over the world to discuss interns and graduates. A number of common the ACT and Victoria in the Creative Digital established in 2010 and in 2014 the summit will be held in Australia. ways in which to influence government themes emerge. UTS alumni in SMEs are Innovation Partnership (CDIP). Dybac says her experience at UTS helped her with solid foundations in the basics, and policymakers in areas such as keen to offer the practical support that they The initiative, part of the former Federal such as goal setting and time management. It also firmly established her desire to look for youth unemployment, education and themselves experienced at UTS, knowing Government’s $1 billion Plan for Australian personal satisfaction and fulfilment in her career, not just financial reward. entrepreneurial growth,” she says. how important this is for professional Jobs package, aims to drive growth and jobs development. The value that young aspiring in creative digital industries. professionals bring to an SME employer in Mathew Klintfält, Director of Swedac, The CDIP will not only grow jobs in terms of fresh ideas, new perspectives and an engineering company specialising the new and emerging creative digital UTS in action enthusiasm is frequently mentioned. The in siphonic roof drainage, did studies in industries space but also help define career chance to take on an intern for a fixed term at Engineering followed by a Business degree paths for students and job seekers that may to educate a reasonable rate, or in some cases at no cost, at UTS. Klintfält is proud that his firm was not yet exist, says UTS Vice-Chancellor is valuable for SMEs. As such it also presents a responsible for designing the siphonic Professor Ross Milbourne. Afghan women low risk business opportunity. stormwater system on the new UTS Yura “A unique, national collaboration of Ben Casey (pictured below, middle) Mudang student residences on Harris Street. start-ups, SMEs, global firms, government studied mechanical engineering studies He believes his role is to give interns and researchers, the CDIP will accelerate Pictured: Dr Nina Burridge (third from left) visited Nasima Rahmani (centre) in the 1990s and was inspired in his exposure to the industry. take-up of digital technologies and services, and GIHE students in Kabul, 2012 own internship, where he was able to One of the benefits of a smaller firm is innovation, and creative content across all contribute to a design project saving the that students can be exposed to a variety sectors of the Australian economy,” he says. By Robert Button Women’s Empowerment Centre to support “We hope also in the future to seek some company $300,000 per annum. Casey of different projects. Klintfält’s company “For this we need a well-educated, agile and women seeking higher education. funding from AusAid to help grow the went on to develop Central Milling, an SME is currently supporting three engineering future-focused workforce and growing UTS will soon provide support to CCCS researcher Dr Nina Burridge education initiatives we undertake with specialising in mineral size reduction for interns and values the “access to resources stream of inspired university graduates. UTS the Gawharshad Institute of Higher visited Kabul in 2012 and saw first-hand Afghanistan,” she says. “In the meantime the agricultural and industrial sectors. at a reasonable rate”. is certainly well placed to meet this challenge. Education in Afghanistan with education the conditions in which Afghan women the CCS has approved a small grant for Casey regularly accepts “only UTS” Richard White was a student on the “The CDIP is perfectly timed for UTS. opportunities for young women who have struggle to learn. She says students were some research to be conducted with engineering interns to his business in Master of Business in IT Management Recently we became a board member long struggled in the face of war, Taliban hungry for access to technology that women in Kabul to understand their views Cowra, country NSW. He values the program and CEO of an IT software of Cumulus, an exclusive international repression and social upheaval. would bring precious online open-access and aspirations related to women’s rights freshness, enthusiasm and the new company employing around 20 people confederacy of design schools fostering A memorandum of understanding (MOU) resources into their reach. past and present.” perspectives that students bring. in 2000 when he began taking on IT a revolution in creative innovation has been signed that will pave the way for UTS “UTS colleagues and I are exploring UTS Deputy Vice-Chancellor interns. White focuses his selection on education and entrepreneurship. And we to provide access to online lectures, resources options with our library to determine how (International) Professor William Purcell “undergraduate industry placements can also announce an Australian first – our and grow the exchange of ideas between we could assist the Institute with resources,” says the support being offered to the and graduate students from UTS”. His new undergraduate degree commencing academics and students in the two countries. Dr Burridge says. “In the future, if the political Institute was a reflection of the University’s company, WiseTech Global, now employs 2014 – the Bachelor of Creative Intelligence Instrumental in establishing the MOU climate permits, we would hope some level commitment to raising education standards more than 300 people, many of whom are and Innovation.” were researchers with the UTS Centre for of academic exchange could take place. internationally and its values of social justice. UTS graduates. Australia’s Creative Digital Industries Cosmopolitan Civil Societies (CCS) and UN “CCS is highly supportive of the kind of “Protecting the important progress that Alumni who would like to know more about the are among the fastest growing industries Peace scholar Nasima Rahmani who holds work Nasima is undertaking – it is literally has been made in recent years in women’s benefits of taking on an enthusiastic aspiring in the economy, growing by 2.8 per cent a UTS Masters of Laws and was last year all about building civil societies in global education in Afghanistan is essential,” professional in their workplace can contact the a year over 2006-2011, outstripping total awarded the Chancellor’s Alumni Award communities, advocating for human rights Professor Purcell says. “UTS is proud to UTS Careers Service on (02) 9514 1471, email Australian workforce growth of two per cent for Excellence. and social justice.” support the work of Nasima – truly one of our [email protected] or visit www.uts.edu.au/ by 40 per cent. Partners are now working Since returning to Afghanistan, Rahmani Dr Burridge says the next step would be most courageous and inspiring alumni.” partners-and-community/working-uts/recruit/ with the new Federal Government to ensure supported the co-ed Gawharshad Institute, to seek out academics willing to disseminate services-employers continued support for the program. established by Dr Sima Samarand, and the their work including lectures and slides. Reproduced with permission from UTS Newsroom.

8 9 T T opinion towering 10 Mind the gap: company The disclosure discrepancies not sustainable towering 10 01 The decision by a number of Australian retailers to sign an accord following the collapse of meet The 2013 UTS Alumni Excellence Andrew Penfold the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh has highlighted discrepancies in company Award winners, including a community stalwart UTS Community Alumni Award 2013; disclosure of sustainability issues and the need for clearer reporting guidance. championing Indigenous education; the Managing Chancellor’s Award for Excellence By Martijn Boersma Director of Google (Australia and New Zealand); Becoming a full-time volunteer may not Information on which companies have Disclosures around gender diversity have an internationally renowned midwife; the Head seem like the most natural progression for Bangladeshi suppliers is limited, and benefited from increased guidance by a former lawyer and investment banker. means a potential lack of other Australian the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) Conditioning Coach of the Sydney Swans, However, the business experience was signatories. Research by Catalyst Australia Corporate Governance Principles. Doubtless, plus many more. crucial for Andrew Penfold in helping to shows that the lack of supply-chain the diversity reporting results reflect the make a profound social impact through his information is not an isolated incident in clear guidance provided, along with a more subsequent charitable work. Australian companies. activist approach by the Workplace Gender After graduating from UTS with a Equality Agency. Bachelor of Law in 1995, Penfold practiced Sustainability reporting External policy underpinning in London, before transitioning to Many companies are increasingly reporting environment topics also helps steer investment banking in Hong Kong. on sustainability alongside financial matters. disclosures. In addition to companies In 2002, Penfold tragically lost 12 of his A 2012 report found that 83 per cent of reporting to the Carbon Disclosure Project, Improving standards friends in the Bali bombings. Along with companies listed on the ASX 200 to some corporations registered under the National Disclosure inconsistencies can be avoided two friends, he set up the charitable Hong extent reported on sustainability matters. Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007 by introducing clear, minimum reporting Kong Rugby Bali Fund and raised more The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) are required to report carbon emissions standards, which should be mandated in than $2 million in a few months. provides the best known reporting and energy consumption. This has focused areas where there are significant gaps in A year later he heard about a handful of framework. However, previous research has attention on reporting in these areas, social and environmental reporting. Indigenous kids enrolled at his former high shown that significant gaps exist between particularly when compared with other There is evidence that companies school, St Joseph’s College in Hunters Hill. claimed levels of reporting and information environmental indicators such as waste will embrace common standards when “One thing led to another and within found in reports. production and water consumption. mandatory guidelines exist, or when a year, I had quit my investment banking Catalyst Australia developed a corporate Worker health and safety disclosures expectations are well defined and understood. job in Hong Kong, moved back to Sydney social responsibility (CSR) dashboard to are stimulated by the impact of legislation In short: clear guidance contributes to greater with my wife and three kids, and spent gauge the quality of sustainability reporting and by bodies such as Safe Work Australia, transparency, and it encourages improved the next five years working full-time but by Australian companies. It analysed which encourages companies to collect monitoring and performance. voluntarily from my dining room setting 32 companies across six topics and found data and compare performance against Regulatory agencies, investors and up and running a fund that has now raised great variation in reporting on social and industry peers and benchmarks. Union industry bodies should consider minimum $7 million to support up to 40 Indigenous environmental activities. focus on workplace safety is also critical, as content guidelines for sustainability boys boarding at St Joseph’s College on a Some of these differences can be seen in the crisis surrounding asbestos in the reporting. The ASX can play a pivotal role by permanent basis.” attributed to the tendency to concentrate National Broadband Network (NBN) roll-out. spearheading improvements in disclosures Its success lead to the establishment on areas that affect company performance, through select amendments to the ASX of the Australian Indigenous Education while meeting stakeholder demands for Overlooked areas Corporate Governance Principles. Foundation (AIEF), of which Penfold is the transparency and disclosure. At the same Catalyst found that supply chains and labour Trade unions, civil society organisations CEO and Director. The Foundation has raised mages supplied time, discretionary reporting can lead to standards were the most under-reported and others with an interest in the human nearly $80 million to help educate 7000 highlighting achievements that reflect well topics, with the majority of companies rights performance of companies have marginalised Indigenous children at some of on companies, while overlooking other providing no or very limited information a vital role to play in creating decent and gilvie. I Australia’s leading schools. important areas. about their policy, management and secure work standards by developing Penfold says education has been approach. This lack of focus confirms other Australian proxies that reflect global the most important way to overcome Clear expectations research findings about Australian firms’ sustainability principles. T disadvantage throughout human history Catalyst also found that clearly defined comparatively poor standard of reporting regardless of race, colour or creed. reporting expectations lifted reporting about human rights issues. This is an edited version of an article that “Being able to create something from osemary Ann O and performance. Gender equality, carbon The absence of clear reporting guidance was first published on The Conversation scratch to help thousands of Indigenous emissions, energy efficiency, and worker in these areas is notable. Unlike their global (www.theconversation.edu.au). kids have a better life is obviously health and safety were well-covered topics. peers, few Australian companies reference Disclosure Statement: Martijn Boersma works something I am very passionate about. The majority of companies addressed these the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for Catalyst Australia. Having my kids grow up seeing their mum topics, even when disclosures revealed Core Conventions. This suggests a need to and dad dedicated to doing something to negative performance outcomes. better contextualise the ILO Conventions Martijn Boersma is a Researcher in enee Carl and R make our world a better place and how that It is significant that these areas have by developing proxies applicable to the Corporate Governance at UTS’s Centre for makes our kids better people is probably

strong external reporting guidance. Australian context. Corporate Governance. ords R what I am most proud of.” W

10 11 T T opinion towering 10 Mind the gap: company The disclosure discrepancies not sustainable towering 10 01 The decision by a number of Australian retailers to sign an accord following the collapse of meet The 2013 UTS Alumni Excellence Andrew Penfold the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh has highlighted discrepancies in company Award winners, including a community stalwart UTS Community Alumni Award 2013; disclosure of sustainability issues and the need for clearer reporting guidance. championing Indigenous education; the Managing Chancellor’s Award for Excellence By Martijn Boersma Director of Google (Australia and New Zealand); Becoming a full-time volunteer may not Information on which companies have Disclosures around gender diversity have an internationally renowned midwife; the Head seem like the most natural progression for Bangladeshi suppliers is limited, and benefited from increased guidance by a former lawyer and investment banker. means a potential lack of other Australian the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) Conditioning Coach of the Sydney Swans, However, the business experience was signatories. Research by Catalyst Australia Corporate Governance Principles. Doubtless, plus many more. crucial for Andrew Penfold in helping to shows that the lack of supply-chain the diversity reporting results reflect the make a profound social impact through his information is not an isolated incident in clear guidance provided, along with a more subsequent charitable work. Australian companies. activist approach by the Workplace Gender After graduating from UTS with a Equality Agency. Bachelor of Law in 1995, Penfold practiced Sustainability reporting External policy underpinning in London, before transitioning to Many companies are increasingly reporting environment topics also helps steer investment banking in Hong Kong. on sustainability alongside financial matters. disclosures. In addition to companies In 2002, Penfold tragically lost 12 of his A 2012 report found that 83 per cent of reporting to the Carbon Disclosure Project, Improving standards friends in the Bali bombings. Along with companies listed on the ASX 200 to some corporations registered under the National Disclosure inconsistencies can be avoided two friends, he set up the charitable Hong extent reported on sustainability matters. Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007 by introducing clear, minimum reporting Kong Rugby Bali Fund and raised more The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) are required to report carbon emissions standards, which should be mandated in than $2 million in a few months. provides the best known reporting and energy consumption. This has focused areas where there are significant gaps in A year later he heard about a handful of framework. However, previous research has attention on reporting in these areas, social and environmental reporting. Indigenous kids enrolled at his former high shown that significant gaps exist between particularly when compared with other There is evidence that companies school, St Joseph’s College in Hunters Hill. claimed levels of reporting and information environmental indicators such as waste will embrace common standards when “One thing led to another and within found in reports. production and water consumption. mandatory guidelines exist, or when a year, I had quit my investment banking Catalyst Australia developed a corporate Worker health and safety disclosures expectations are well defined and understood. job in Hong Kong, moved back to Sydney social responsibility (CSR) dashboard to are stimulated by the impact of legislation In short: clear guidance contributes to greater with my wife and three kids, and spent gauge the quality of sustainability reporting and by bodies such as Safe Work Australia, transparency, and it encourages improved the next five years working full-time but by Australian companies. It analysed which encourages companies to collect monitoring and performance. voluntarily from my dining room setting 32 companies across six topics and found data and compare performance against Regulatory agencies, investors and up and running a fund that has now raised great variation in reporting on social and industry peers and benchmarks. Union industry bodies should consider minimum $7 million to support up to 40 Indigenous environmental activities. focus on workplace safety is also critical, as content guidelines for sustainability boys boarding at St Joseph’s College on a Some of these differences can be seen in the crisis surrounding asbestos in the reporting. The ASX can play a pivotal role by permanent basis.” attributed to the tendency to concentrate National Broadband Network (NBN) roll-out. spearheading improvements in disclosures Its success lead to the establishment on areas that affect company performance, through select amendments to the ASX of the Australian Indigenous Education while meeting stakeholder demands for Overlooked areas Corporate Governance Principles. Foundation (AIEF), of which Penfold is the transparency and disclosure. At the same Catalyst found that supply chains and labour Trade unions, civil society organisations CEO and Director. The Foundation has raised mages supplied time, discretionary reporting can lead to standards were the most under-reported and others with an interest in the human nearly $80 million to help educate 7000 highlighting achievements that reflect well topics, with the majority of companies rights performance of companies have marginalised Indigenous children at some of on companies, while overlooking other providing no or very limited information a vital role to play in creating decent and gilvie. I Australia’s leading schools. important areas. about their policy, management and secure work standards by developing Penfold says education has been approach. This lack of focus confirms other Australian proxies that reflect global the most important way to overcome Clear expectations research findings about Australian firms’ sustainability principles. T disadvantage throughout human history Catalyst also found that clearly defined comparatively poor standard of reporting regardless of race, colour or creed. reporting expectations lifted reporting about human rights issues. This is an edited version of an article that “Being able to create something from osemary Ann O and performance. Gender equality, carbon The absence of clear reporting guidance was first published on The Conversation scratch to help thousands of Indigenous emissions, energy efficiency, and worker in these areas is notable. Unlike their global (www.theconversation.edu.au). kids have a better life is obviously health and safety were well-covered topics. peers, few Australian companies reference Disclosure Statement: Martijn Boersma works something I am very passionate about. The majority of companies addressed these the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for Catalyst Australia. Having my kids grow up seeing their mum topics, even when disclosures revealed Core Conventions. This suggests a need to and dad dedicated to doing something to negative performance outcomes. better contextualise the ILO Conventions Martijn Boersma is a Researcher in enee Carl and R make our world a better place and how that It is significant that these areas have by developing proxies applicable to the Corporate Governance at UTS’s Centre for makes our kids better people is probably

strong external reporting guidance. Australian context. Corporate Governance. ords R what I am most proud of.” W

10 11 T towering 10

influential bookThe New Midwifery: Science and Sensitivity in Practice, has worked and 03 04 lectured in 13 countries, and was made Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Theodora Ahilas Professor Lesley Page Midwives (UK) in 2007 in recognition of her UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 UTS International Alumni Award 2013 considerable contribution to the profession. Faculty of Law Sponsored by UTS:INSEARCH In 2012 she was directly elected to her current role as President of the Royal A Principal Lawyer at Maurice Blackburn In the field of midwifery, you’d be hard College of Midwives in the UK, alongside a Lawyers, Theodora Ahilas has spent the pressed to find someone with more position as Deputy Editor of Women and past 22 years representing asbestos victims experience and academic recognition to Birth (Journal of the Australian College – assisting to create better futures for her their name than Professor Lesley Page. of Midwives). often-terminally ill clients. Helping families Page has managed to integrate policy Page completed a PhD by Publication in to achieve compensation is no small task, leadership, research and development and the Faculty of Health at UTS in 2003. 05 but Ahilas says it is an honour even though being a practising midwife into her widely “When I applied, I had been the first some days she feels like she is “going into lauded career. Professor of Midwifery in the UK and had Maile Carnegie the trenches”. Among her many career achievements, been Professor for some time, had undertaken UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 “Part of the excitement of this job is that Page helped establish the first legally research and published a lot, so doing a UTS Business School nearly every day is different. Things are recognised midwifery service in the health conventional PhD was not appropriate. UTS unpredictable and ever changing.” service in British Columbia in the 1980s, gave the opportunity for a PhD by Publication. Maile Carnegie is the recently appointed The best part of her role, she says, is served on three national committees in It was a fantastic experience because I wrote Managing Director of Google (Australia and 02 meeting her clients, sharing their journey the UK; was Deputy Chair of the English a bridging ‘essay’ bringing out the central and New Zealand). Carnegie was previously and helping their families. The most National Board for Nursing Midwifery coordinating ideas behind my work. It really Managing Director for Proctor & Gamble Reynato Reodica, challenging aspect is finishing cases and Health Care (1993-1999), wrote the refreshed my thinking.” Australia, having joined the company in in the lifetime of her clients, due to the 1992 after completing a BBus Marketing Junior unpredictable nature of the disease and from UTS. The dual Australian and US UTS Young Alumni Award 2013 the lack of a cure. However, Ahilas sees “[UTS] gave the opportunity for a PhD by Publication. It was a citizen has spent half of her career working firsthand on almost a daily basis how fantastic experience because I wrote a bridging ‘essay’ bringing in Australia, and half overseas, including Aged just 29, Reynato Reodica Junior resilient the human spirit is. Cincinnati and Singapore. already has 13 years of policy and research “If you’ve watched a man or woman out the central and coordinating ideas behind my work.” The most exciting aspect of her new achievements under his belt, promoting take their last breath giving a bedside role, Carnegie says, is that Google is still positive social change for youths, testimony to receive an outcome for their professor lesley page in its early days, having turned 15 in particularly those who are disadvantaged. family and to know that their family will September. “There is so much ahead of the At age 18, he was elected Chair of the be looked after financially, then you are company, and our Australian operation. Youth Action and Policy Association After serving five years, in April 2012 forever humbled.” The technology world changes so fast that (YAPA), and at 23, after a competitive, Reodica transitioned to Youth Affairs at the Ahilas graduated with a Law degree it’s really a matter of buckling up and seeing nation-wide employment process, was federal level as the Deputy Director (Youth from UTS in 1991. what the future holds.” appointed the youngest Chief Executive Sector) of the Australian Youth Affairs “I had a wonderful experience as a According to Carnegie, the greatest since YAPA’s inception in 1990. He began Coalition. His focus is on the provision student of law at UTS. I loved the UTS opportunity is that “we’re just scratching the role in 2007, after completing a BA of support and development services to degree, the course, everything.” the surface of how the web can change the Communications (Social Inquiry) / LLB some of Australia’s most vulnerable and It has been a stellar year on the awards lives of Australians for the better”. degree from UTS. disadvantaged young people. front for Ahilas, having won the 2012 Law “The web is proving to be a massive Among his many achievements in Social justice is an issue close to and Justice Foundation’s Justice Medal boost to small businesses, especially those the role, Reodica also successfully led Reodica’s heart. “Growing up in Western for her compassion and commitment to in rural areas, and it’s also driving a huge negotiations on behalf of the NSW Youth Sydney, I witnessed the effects of social obtaining justice for asbestos victims and explosion in creative content coming out of Sector to secure $21.7 million in additional inequality on the people around me and their families. Australia. If we do our jobs right, more and funding for youth support services in felt strongly that as a prosperous society, “As a career highlight it was the absolute more Aussies’ lives will be better thanks to the 2010/11 financial year, representing a we could do more to ensure real fairness is ultimate accolade. I still don’t believe it.” the web bringing them more information, 25.5 per cent increase. available to all.” In 2013, Ahilas took out the UTS Alumni more options, more opportunities.” “My UTS education shaped my career As for the future, Reodica’s heart lays Award for Excellence, Faculty of Law. “I Carnegie retains a close association and provided me with the perfect mix of firmly in making a social impact. “I hope to think why me?” she says humbly. with UTS as a member of UTS Business skills to better understand the world and continue to work in areas that create real No doubt the hundreds of asbestos School’s Industry Advisory Board. It’s a role society, formulate arguments for what and meaningful change for those who sufferers and their families who Ahilas she enjoys for “the luxury to focus on the changes are needed and communicate this need it most, including our society’s most has helped throughout her career would critical opportunity of enabling the next effectively,” he says. vulnerable and disadvantaged people.” understand why. generation of leaders”.

12 13 T towering 10

12 13 T towering 10 08 10 Dr Stuart Tangye Robert Spurrs UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 Faculty of Science Faculty of Health

Associate Professor Stuart Tangye is the Robert Spurrs plays a lead role in ensuring National Health and Medical Research the players of the Sydney Swans – one Council (NHMRC) Senior Research Fellow of the premier teams in the Australian in the Immunology Research Group at the 09 Football League – are kicking goals, both on Garvan Institute of Medical Research, and and off the field. As Head of Conditioning, a conjoint Senior Lecturer at the University Fiona Rankin he is responsible for managing the physical of New South Wales. UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 preparation of the entire player list, 07 He completed a BAppSc Biomedical Faculty of Engineering & Information including training, recovery, monitoring, Science in 1991, BAppSc (Hons) in 1992, and and research programs. Technology Dr Katherine Carroll went on to gain a PhD in Science in 1996, Spurrs joined the Swans on a part-time UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 all from UTS. “I had some very inspiring basis leading into the 2001 season while lecturers in immunology who really set me For a high level management executive, it undertaking a postgraduate course at Faculty of Arts & Social Science on the course for my scientific endeavours may come as a surprise that Fiona Rankin’s UTS in Human Movement Studies, having and subsequent career path. I was lucky to early beginnings started on a sheep It’s fantastic to hear people comment about While studying for a full-time physiotherapy have exposure to these educators at a time station in New South Wales near a town a car’s design. However when cars become degree, Dr Katherine Carroll commenced a of my studies when I was not sure what I called Goodooga. However, Rankin has part of their lifestyle, remarks such as, BA part-time by distance education through really wanted to do. But they showed me since gone on to build an exciting and ‘Our family grew up with that car, I have Open University Australia. the magic of immunology.” diverse career, boosting her academic 06 such great memories’, give you additional During her Honours research year in Tangye is one of Australia’s pre-eminent credentials along the way. satisfaction and help maintain your passion.” 2000, she realised she wanted to become a medical scientists working in human She graduated with a Bachelor of Casey Gee Hoon Hyun As much as he loves his role, it’s not researcher as a career, so applied for a PhD. immunology. Tangye’s lab focuses on Economics in 1993 and a Graduate Diploma UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 without challenges. “With billions of dollars “I was lucky enough to be granted a PhD studying diseases impacting people today. in Financial Management, Finance/ Faculty of Design, Architecture riding on a vehicle’s success or failure, the scholarship by Professor Rick Iedema (UTS) “Knowing that hopefully our work will Accounting (both from the University of New biggest challenge is being able to see the on one of his Australian Research Council some day lead to improvements in the England), before completing a Masters in & Building future, and being confident what that future (ARC) Discovery grants (2005).” management of patients, and the prognosis Business & IT Management at UTS in 2000. holds,” he says. “There’s also the ongoing Having graduated with a PhD in 2009, of their diseases, is a very rewarding and Rankin has 20 years of technology and originally completed undergraduate Recipient of the 2013 UTS Alumni Award for challenge of competing against the world’s she commenced a postdoctoral position satisfying feeling,” he says. executive management in the financial studies in Accounting. “My degree provided Excellence, Faculty of Design, Architecture numerous car companies.” as a research fellow at the University of His achievements are astounding: services under her belt, including me with a fantastic theoretical background and Building, Casey Gee Hoon Hyun joined Hyun completed his Masters in Sydney. During this time Carroll also since 1995, Tangye has published 67 peer- Chief Information Officer at RESIMAC and scientific principles, as well as an the Hyundai Motor Group in 2005, at a time Automotive Design at Coventry University in focused on writing a grant application to reviewed articles and has been invited Limited, Principal Consultant at Curious understanding as to how to utilise these in when the world was starting to take serious the UK after graduating from UTS in 1996 with ARC on the topic of breastmilk donation to contribute 20 reviews for journals; in Developments, and her current role as an applied setting,” Spurrs says. notice of the company. a Bachelor of Industrial Design. However, and human milk banking for preterm 2006 he was the recipient of a Young Tall Chief Information Officer at New South The Swans have qualified for the “There was such a great positive energy,” he regards his UTS qualification as the most infants in neonatal intensive care units. Poppy prize, awarded by the Australian Wales Treasury Corporation – the central Finals series in 10 of the 12 seasons that recalls Hyun, who is Creative Design Manager valuable recognition in terms of academic “The grant application was to fund my Institute of Policy and Science and the borrowing authority for the State of New Spurrs has been involved in the physical at the Seoul-based Hyundai Design Centre. “I achievement. “There’s a certain feel about own postdoctoral research fellowship for Office of Science and Medical Research in South Wales, known as TCorp – which she preparation of the players. In 2012, the team was working 10 or 12 hours a day designing, UTS, and I have a great appreciation and a three years back at UTS. I was lucky enough recognition of his research achievements; has held since July 2010. achieved the ultimate prize – winning the sketching, making models. I wouldn’t go home great satisfaction of belonging.” to win the grant and in 2011 commenced he has active collaborations with research “My role is to harness technology to premiership. While Spurrs concedes it’s for weeks at a time. However, it wasn’t tough A story in a US university publication this fellowship in the Centre for Health labs in Australia, Europe and the US, which deliver business outcomes. Essentially, I hard work, he feels very lucky to work for because I wanted to see the success, and to about a couple who donated an amount Communication in the Faculty of Arts and have complementary research interests; manage, optimise and drive technology the Swans. “Everyone is there because they say I was part of that success.” of money to a university to establish a Social Sciences at UTS.” and has also supervised to completion strategy to administer and provide are passionate about sport and what they Hyundai-Kia is now the world’s fifth- small scholarship inspired Hyun to set up The most rewarding aspect of the eight PhD and numerous honours students. information on a balance sheet of more than do. In some ways you could liken it to the largest car manufacturer, with international the Casey Hyun Industrial Design Award fellowship she says, is being able to follow her $73bn, a $45bn debt management portfolio, excitement people get out of their weekend sales of almost seven million cars annually. at UTS. He hopes this award will inspire research passion for three years in an area and $8bn in funds management operations.” club sport, we get to do that for a job.” In addition to being a designer, Hyun is others to express appreciation towards the that is important to many women and also Rankin remains connected to UTS Spurrs’ connection with UTS did not end in charge of building the brand’s design University in a similar way. important for the most vulnerable and tiny through her role as a member of the Faculty on graduation. strategy and vision. “We go through a design “We see philanthropy as the province of people in our society: very preterm infants. of Engineering and IT’s Industry Advisory “As a result of my association with UTS, process to ensure our cars are competitive the very rich, but that’s not really the case.” In a nod to Carroll’s work, she was Network (IAN). “I always feel humbled when we have built a strong working relationship now, but will be even more competitive in Hyun feels honoured about his own recently offered a position as the Assistant I meet UTS students. Seeing the intellectual between the Swans and UTS. This has five or 10 years’ time,” he says. award, saying it gives him that extra Professor in Qualitative Research in the capital, energy and innovation they been achieved via collaborative research For Hyun, design is much more than impetus to work hard and try to distinguish Centre for the Science of Health Care invest in their projects and work (which studies and placement of UTS postgraduate giving form to a beautiful aesthetic. himself in his field of design. “I’m just happy Delivery, Faculty of Health Sciences, at the is so important to society and business) is students undertaking their research project “Design is about satisfying people’s needs. with where I am,” he says. Mayo Clinic in the US. inspiring and rewarding.” at the Swans.”

14 15 T towering 10 08 10 Dr Stuart Tangye Robert Spurrs UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 UTS Alumni Award for Excellence 2013 Faculty of Science Faculty of Health

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An acclaimed illustrator and UTS alumnus, “When I stop and draw stuff, I really see it much better so I James Hancock started his ambitious don’t think that’s ever going to stop.” project, All the Buildings in New York, in 2009 to get a better feel for his new home and make personal through artistic expression james gulliver hancock the many, many buildings of the iconic American city. His tally to date exceeds Hancock, 35, has harboured what he Businessweek magazine, The New York Times 500 illustrations and includes landmarks describes as “a need to make things” since and Herman Miller. The combination keeps such as the Empire State Building through to childhood. “It’s always felt natural to me him “obsessively working, which I like”. historic Brooklyn brownstones. to have a pencil in hand, whether you’re Hancock’s prolific output has seen him “I’ve always been interested in at a restaurant drawing on a napkin or a create an enormous portfolio. This has obsessional kinds of things like collecting beautiful piece of watercolour paper.” helped attract other client projects, and he stuff and doing projects that are based on A UTS Bachelor of Design in Visual also ensures he stays in touch with people the idea of concentrating on one thing and Communication graduate, Hancock has to foster his networks and keep his name collecting them together,” says Sydney- fond memories of the “great time” he had at out there. Such a mix of artistic talent and born Hancock, whose illustrations also university in the early 1990s. commercial nous is unusual. include All the Bicycles in Berlin and All the “The first year was amazing because “That ability to chase people up and wear Cars in Los Angeles. we did all this cross-media stuff and we a lot of hats is essential when you’re your While his other ‘All the…’ projects were were thrown in with other disciplines own business,” he says. “And you’ve got to transient, completed as Hancock passed like fashion and industrial design,” he put on the accountant hat and chase up through cities or countries, the stunning says. “So that was really exciting for me to the invoices and all that sort of stuff. I quite buildings project is now an obsession from see all these people with different minds enjoy that – it’s just part of my personality which he cannot escape given that he creatively working together.” that likes doing all those different things.” spends a lot of time in the Big Apple with This perfectly fitted his desire to pick up What really keeps him enthused, his wife, singer-songwriter Lenka, and their as many skills as possible. however, is a passion for drawing. With the 18-month-old son, Quinn. The boy’s arrival “When I did step out of the studio I New York buildings project, Hancock cannot saw the family return to Australia to live, could do a bit of animation to pick up select the building he enjoys sketching but they continue to spend chunks of time some work or I could do a bit of web most – he is always gobsmacked by the in New York for work. design or something. I wasn’t just studying juxtaposition of old and new buildings in the There has always been a sense of illustration and only able to make pictures. city, the beautiful and the rundown. romanticism around New York for Hancock, That was what was great about that course.” “You get that in a lot of cities, but here stemming from his childhood watching Hancock remains in contact with it seems to be so extreme because it is so Sesame Street through to his interest in university friends: some have helped him dense and everything is so packed together Alfred Hitchcock movie settings. find jobs; others he has assisted to get gigs. – it’s like Tetris,” he says. “Amazing things “This romanticism builds and builds – it’s After attending UTS he initially worked next to really boring things and those boring hard when you get here to get over that, so in web design and was employed at an things become amazing.” a project like this was good for me to more interactive company, but over time he has The beauty of the path he has chosen, efficiently become a local.” narrowed down his areas of work to the according to Hancock, is that the nature of Working out of the Pencil Factory in point where he is now a full-time illustrator. drawing changes the way you look at things. Brooklyn while he is in the US, Hancock’s “I’ve built up a big enough portfolio and “When I stop and draw stuff, I really see buildings project has blossomed to the enough of a style that people just ask me to it much better so I don’t think that’s ever point where people can now commission do what I do for them, which is really great.” going to stop. That’s the way I am. I just need him to draw specific sites in the city. Aside from All the Buildings in New York, to see the world.” T “It’s fuelled by other people’s interests which Hancock views as a playful side and obsessions, which is nice. It’s not just project, he works as a commercial illustrator Visit www.jamesgulliverhancock.com and my own project now – it’s a public project.” for a variety of clients such as Coca-Cola, www.allthebuildingsinnewyork.com. The greatest view Drawing buildings in New York is a source of unbridled pleasure for James Gulliver Hancock. And not just any building in the city – every building. words cameron cooper

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Think back to 1991 when Animal Logic contributed to Animal Logic’s evolution, launched a modest visual effects operation “you can’t help but have some favourite in Sydney using a credit card for funding. children”. The Matrix trilogy holds a special No commercial internet. No email. No 3D place given it made the world sit up and take computer graphics. notice of the company, while Moulin Rouge! at the movies “The most advanced form of (“a home-grown Aussie film”) andHappy Feet communication was a fax machine,” (“definitely a game-changer”) get a mention. Design, animation and visual effects company Animal Logic holds its own against the best recalls co-founder and Chief Executive He also nominates Chinese movies Hero of the best in Hollywood – discover how these ‘Aussie upstarts’ have made their mark on a Zareh Nalbandian. “When you consider and House of Flying Daggers as important global scale, while maintaining a strong connection with UTS. building an international client base and developments for the business – for their business with a fax machine and put it creative credentials and the chance to forge words cameron cooper photography kasia werstak into the context of what we do today, that a place in the fast-growing China market demonstrates the rate of change that has working with director Zhang Yimou. occurred in the sector.” Nalbandian, whose role spans producing Now regarded as one of the world’s leading films to negotiating the big business deals design, visual effects and animation studios with clients to secure major film projects, is servicing the film, television and advertising proud of the role Animal Logic has played in industries, Animal Logic is renowned for its developing proprietary software tools and technical standards and the development techniques that have helped revolutionise of revolutionary software products. For the animation and visual effects industry. Nalbandian and co-founder Chris Godfrey, “We’ve helped create popular culture it is a far cry from the early days when a with those,” he says. Aidan Sarsfield (left) silicon graphics computer work station cost While he puts some of the company’s and Zareh Nalbandian. anything from $100,000 and $1 million and success down to being in the right place his team had a company party to celebrate at the right time, he credits Godfrey with Sarsfield has been at Animal Logic for an 8MB upgrade for one of its computers. creating a culture of excellence. about 14 years after graduating from UTS On the back of The Matrix with an “We believe that if you do great work, and then working as a product designer for Academy Award for its ground-breaking good things will come,” Nalbandian says. Mambo. From an early stage in his career, visual effects, another Academy Award in Animal Logic has also been able to juggle he loved the freedom of visualising things 2007 for its animation work on Happy Feet the sometimes competing demands of art, using computers. and its input into a string of other box-office technology and business. “This company is “You could create the most fanciful ideas hits, Animal Logic has put Australia on the very competitive and works very hard for and not be limited by your ability to build a map for international animation production. its place,” Nalbandian says. model or your ability to sketch it.” Yet Nalbandian still sees his 250-strong team – working out of a studio in Sydney and an Great talent pool Strong UTS links office in Los Angeles – as David taking on the In tandem with great work is a requirement Nalbandian also has UTS connections Goliath of the Hollywood film business. for great people and to that end, Animal through his role on the Vice-Chancellor’s “Oh, we are still Aussie upstarts,” he says, Logic has benefited from a flow of UTS Business Advisory Board. He welcomes noting that competition comes from the outstanding UTS graduates. The list includes the position because “over the years we’ve likes of giants such as DreamWorks, Pixar Justen Marshall (software development), had a great intake of graduates from UTS”. and Fox’s Blue Sky Studios. “But I think we Steve Agland (technical director) and Aidan “Not only is there great training within the feel a lot more secure about our ability to Sarsfield (computer graphics supervisor). University, but there is a great training for hold our own against anyone in the world. Sarsfield has a Bachelor in Industrial Design industry that we really appreciate.” That helps our confidence.” from UTS and sits on the Executive Council Nalbandian says Animal Logic seeks Advisory Board of the Faculty of Design, to support the training of undergraduates Screen success Architecture and Building. with workshops on animation, while it is Any discussion of animation in Australia Renowned for his work as character also eager to engage in research projects invariably includes Animal Logic. Aside supervisor on Happy Feet, Sarsfield enjoys with postgraduate students. He believes from the Academy Award for Happy Feet, his complex role in animated features there should be more partnerships accolades have come for its work on feature that can involve 80 lighters, 40 animators between industry and universities. films such asBabe , The Lord of the Rings: and 30 visual effects artists working on “UTS just seems to be a little more open Fellowship of the Ring, Rabbit-Proof Fence, a project at one time. “You have to enable than most in terms of being able to embrace Moulin Rouge!, Hero, Australia, 300 and, more a workflow that has all of those people that collaboration,” Nalbandian says. recently, The Great Gatsby and Legend of working simultaneously and sharing things Sarsfield also acknowledges the strength the Guardians. It will release Walking With between each other,” he says. “It’s a very of UTS graduates who have joined Animal Dinosaurs this Christmas, while there is great complicated and energetic process.” Logic. “It’s a very steep learning curve for expectation around the looming release Sarsfield says despite the talent at anyone walking into Animal Logic,” he says. next year of The Lego Movie. Animal Logic’s disposal, egos rarely get in “So the UTS grounding and the education Clockwise from top left: Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole Copyright © 2010 Warner Bros. Pictures; Happy Feet Copyright © 2006 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved; on location at the Animal Logic office; both bottom images:The Great Gatsby The company’s television and the way. “It’s one of the most collaborative that you get is an incredibly good starting Copyright © 2013 Warner Bros. Pictures; LEGO® Star Wars®: The Padawan Menace™ Copyright ©2011 The LEGO Group / ©2011 Lucasfilm commercials output has also been prolific. enterprises that you could possibly imagine. point. Probably the most important thing in While Nalbandian says every project has Everybody is passionate about what they do.” any of our teams is the ability to collaborate –

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“I think we feel a lot more secure about our ability to hold our own against sick building syndrome: anyone in the world. That helps our confidence.” how indoor plants can help clear the air Air pollution levels indoors are almost always higher than outside, even in busy city centres. zareh nalbandian However, indoor plants have the ability to mitigate high levels of most airborne contaminants. By Fraser Torpy and that is one of the things that we see most from graduates at UTS.” His own stint at UTS in the early to mid- entilation systems constantly ‘refresh’ this pollutant is well controlled by modern 1990s holds fond memories for Sarsfield, buildings with air from outdoors, air conditioning systems. But field trials have who recalls a “melting pot of people and Vafter a filtration process removes shown that between three and six medium- ideas” as students from a range of faculties some large particles, such as pollen. Once sized plants in a non-air conditioned building combined to explore and improve their inside, this air is augmented by a large range can reduce CO2 concentrations by a quarter. design and creative skills. “That was really Zareh Nalbandian in his office at Animal Logic. of indoor-sourced pollutants. Two of the The question now is whether we should beneficial and enjoyable at the time.” most significant of these are volatile organic be using air conditioning for ventilation Sarsfield says another strength of UTS compounds (VOCs) and carbon dioxide. purposes at all when indoor plants can do courses is that they educate students about Volatile organic compounds are some of the work for us at a greatly reduced how to make creative decisions and solve petrochemical vapours that are ‘outgassed’ cost. But a lot more work is needed before we problems within a minimum timeframe or continuously liberated from building get the complete picture of the potential of and with budgetary restrictions – a skill that materials, such as paint and carpet, as plants to deal with indoor CO2. is highly relevant today in the animation well as furnishings, plastics and electronic The growing push for more sustainable and visual effects industry. equipment. In high concentrations, many buildings should give this field impetus. In his role on the Executive Council of these agents are acutely toxic and Environmental psychologists have long Advisory Board, Sarsfield says he carcinogenic. Some even disrupt the proposed that indoor plants can improve appreciates the chance to give something endocrine systems of animals. workplace performance and satisfaction. back to the University and contribute to Up to 900 different compounds have Having a plant in the office has positive decisions that will shape the learning been detected in some buildings. The most outcomes, including an improved emotional experience of students into the future. Animation festival takes centre stage commonly found ones include benzene, Natural air cleaners state, reduced negative mood states, reduced ethylbenzene, toluene and xylene. While The ability of plants to improve indoor air distraction, increased creativity, and improved Focus on the future The University’s commitment to the animation sector is perhaps best demonstrated the concentration of volatile organic quality was recognised in the 1980s, when task-performance. Many studies have related As Animal Logic puts the finishing touches through its hosting of the UTS: Sydney International Animation Festival. The fifth compounds in modern buildings is generally NASA researched growing plants on space these effects to the idea of biophilia, which on The Lego Movie, which is expected to be annual festival was held in October and showcased the latest highlights of world and quite low, there’s growing evidence that stations. Results indicated the surprising suggests being near a plant returns us, in some another big hit for the company, Nalbandian local animation, the festival program included sessions featuring John Andrews, continued chronic exposure to even low removal of previously high volatile organic small way, to our evolutionary beginnings in is conscious of staying ahead of market former Vice-President of Animation at MTV and the producer of the cult animation levels of these chemicals may result in the compound concentrations in their model the prehistoric forest. trends and creating great intellectual series Beavis and Butt-Head. condition known as ‘sick building syndrome’. spacecraft. Then, around the year 2000, Far from being just another form of property. The company has set up a division, “He was a great name to have. John is a key figure in animation,” says Associate Sufferers of this syndrome experience Australian researchers determined interior decoration, plants are important for Animal Logic Entertainment, allowing it to Professor Damian Gascoigne, a festival committee member and Course Director acute or sub-acute discomfort and health that virtually all of the volatile organic maintaining the habitability of the indoor expand from producing work for others to for the new Bachelor of Design in Animation at UTS. Previously a senior lecturer in effects that appear to be linked to the duration compound-removing ability of potted plants environment, where most of us spend the developing its own projects. animation at Kingston University in London, Gascoigne’s career as an animation of time spent in a building. Typical symptoms resided in the pot. It was the normal bacteria great majority of our lives. We know plants Nalbandian admits that picking market director and illustrator spans more than two decades and his work has been exhibited range from drowsiness, physical irritability, of the potting mix that took up the volatile have always maintained air quality and kept and technology trends in animation is not in galleries and animation festivals around the world. difficulty concentrating, fatigue and nausea. organic compounds. us happy and productive. Dramatically rising easy as the industry grapples with movies He welcomes UTS’s pledge to the animation industry. “One of the main things These symptoms can be severe enough But the plants are not superfluous: energy costs and a growing emphasis on versus streaming versus mobile devices that appealed to me about coming here was that I was impressed they were running to greatly diminish a person’s ability to work experiments where the plants were removed sustainability should make us consider the role versus interactive gaming. something like the festival through the University,” he says. effectively. Their direct cause is usually leaving only the potting mix showed a gradual plants will play in the indoors of the future. T “We are also very tuned into what those Gascoigne and his colleague Deborah Szapiro, a fellow Lecturer in the School of unknown to the sufferer, but they’re relieved loss of performance over a few weeks. The changes are and how we should adapt.” Design, are excited at the opportunity to develop UTS’s undergraduate course in soon after leaving the building. The other plants supply the soil bacteria with key Acknowledgement: Peter Irga and Professor One development to which the film animation, which complements an established Master of Animation program. major indoor pollutant, carbon dioxide (CO2), nutrients that sustain their viability and health. Margaret Burchett contributed to this article. industry must respond, according to “It’s not often you get the chance in education to start something entirely from is produced by human respiration. High More recent experimentation has Disclosure Statement: Much of the research this Nalbandian, is the growth of the Chinese scratch. You can’t help but be impressed by the resources and how up-to-date levels of CO2 (above 800 to 1000 parts monitored the background concentrations article is based on has been funded by various film industry, with its box-office forecast to everything is at UTS.” per million) cause rooms to feel ‘stuffy’. of volatile organic compounds in offices with nursery industry bodies including Ambius, The outstrip the US within the next decade. “Given Gascoigne sees his role as one of preparing students for the rigours of one day But sick building syndrome-like symptoms and without plants over some weeks. These Interior Plantscapers’ Association, Horticulture where we are in Australia we have to be working for a company such as Animal Logic. can occur at much lower concentrations findings indicate that even three potted Australia Limited and the Dutch Flower active participants in that market and Animal “It’s about fostering an environment where people expect to work at a level of than this. When CO2 levels are above plants in an average-sized office will reduce Foundation. This article was first published on Logic is very much focused on that.” T intensity which mirrors what the industry will expect.” 1,000 ppm, building occupants can become airborne volatile organic compounds to an The Conversation (www.theconversation.edu.au). He believes there has never been a more exciting time to be engaged in animation. quite unwell. But this level is uncommon extremely low level. See more of Animal Logic’s animation work on “It’s an absolute golden age for animation at the moment and it’s brilliant to be part of it.” in modern buildings thanks to efficient Plant-mediated CO2 removal has received Fraser Torpy is a Lecturer in the School of the TOWER app (for iPad and Android). mechanical ventilation systems. less research attention, primarily because the Environment at UTS.

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20 21 T feature Stories we tell The image of the writer sitting in a garret, waiting for inspiration, is a potent one. Ever since UTS started offering creative writing programs 30 years ago, the subsequent degree, doctorate and diploma courses have produced many published and award-winning writers. words mark abernethy

UTS’s creative writing courses have become known for and the students come Cohen specialised in short stories during demonstrated that with a dedicated faculty here for these courses.” his undergraduate studies and would and ambitious students, writing skills He points to the practitioner base within later have some of them published in a and techniques can be taught within an the Faculty that includes himself, Debra collection called Snowdome. He went on academic context. From its beginnings Adelaide, Robert Adamson (the Copyright to teach at UTS and then completed an MA as a creative writing course offered as Agency Limited Chair of Poetry), Gabrielle (writing) at the University, which produced part of a Bachelor of Arts, the Creative Carey, Delia Falconer, Sue Joseph, Anthony the book Tourism, published by Picador. In Practice Group now runs four layers of Macris and Leah Purcell, as one of the 2012 he completed his Doctor of Creative writing education, from short courses on reasons the courses have been so popular. Arts, and the project for that doctorate – The writing practice and an undergraduate He says the Faculty spent many years Antibiography of Robert F. Menzies – was sub-major for a BA in Communications fine-tuning its creative writing programs, published in October. (creative writing), to a Masters of Writing weighing technique and craft against He credits UTS with giving him a writing post-graduate course and a research-based analysis, critique and theory. The Faculty career – Tourism was plucked by one of his Doctor of Creative Arts (DCA) program. also perfected a grading system so that MA markers, Don Anderson, and shown to Professor John Dale, head of the UTS course work would be properly assessed a publisher at Picador. However, he says the Creative Practices academic group and rather than relying on pass/fail marks. biggest lesson he took from UTS’s writing Director of the Centre for New Writing, says “The creative writing programs at this programs is that creativity can be taught, if the University’s writing programs have University have enjoyed so much success only to teach young people that creativity is become the best and most sought-after in because they emphasise both the practical a mental habit and putting ideas on a page Australia because the speciality has been elements of writing and academic rigour. is not really risky. built over many years. Creative people come here to work on their It’s a lesson he imparts to the kids who “UTS was one of the first Australian writing, but they still want a quality BA.” now come through his Writing Workshop universities to have a writing program, (www.writingworkshop.com.au). “Creativity in the early 1980s,” says Dale, himself a Creative thought processes is a value taught at the dinner table,” says successful author of novels such as The An example of how the UTS creative Cohen. “It only develops if you think it’s Dogs are Barking. “A strong track record writing programs affect a person’s life can important. We can teach this to children.” means we have high demand for the be found in novelist and UTS graduate, programs and we put a lot of effort into Bernard Cohen. Originally studying It’s a long way to the top… retaining quality teachers and upgrading arts-law and science at university, Cohen For novelist Susanne Gervay, the our curricula.” was drawn to an alternative life doing a educational opportunities of the Master Dale says the creative writing programs at BA in Communications (writing and film of Arts in writing came after she’d taken UTS now take in poetry, novel, novella, short production) at UTS. the hard route to become a writer of young story, screenwriting and creative non-fiction, “I was living in an inner city share flat adult fiction. A teacher of primary school as well as academic and theory work. with struggling artists and musicians students for eight years, she ended that The undergraduate element of and that awakened my long-held desire full-time career to have children and found the programs – the most popular and to be a writer,” says Cohen, who won the herself working in the family business – the oversubscribed – has evolved so that in 2014 Vogel Award in 1996 with his novel, The Hughenden Hotel in Woollahra. Novelist Susanne Gervay the BA in Communications will change, from Blindman’s Hat. While raising kids she converted her BA Comms (writing and cultural studies) to In the UTS writing programs Cohen childhood habit of writing stories into BA Comms (creative writing). found a core of fellow creatives who were an attempt to write a novel based on her Gervay, who now has 10 books to her name slush piles. That was actually my strategy – New York, as well as one in Sydney. But she The dropping of the more theoretical passionate. “UTS takes young people who experiences as the daughter of Hungarian and a play based on one of her titles. “Trying be in all the slush piles!” remembers the pain of getting started. cultural studies for a pure creative writing are creative and driven,” says Cohen. “And refugees. Finishing a first manuscript – which to become published was agony for me and Gervay’s career, which now includes the “I once received a three-page rejection sub-major is a big step and one driven by then they turn you up: you have to read, you would eventually be Next Stop the Moon – I made it very hard on my kids. I am Jack series on school bullying – which letter from a publisher,” says Gervay, still student demand. “Our undergraduate have to discuss and analyse and you have to proved easier than finding a publisher. “When I realised that unsolicited has been turned into a play and also a film incredulous. “It was three pages of hatred – I students are looking for a learning and produce. Your brain is constantly turned up. “With my first manuscripts, I would send manuscripts go straight to the slush pile, in 2015 starring Deborah-Lee Furness – and mean, why would you bother!” creative experience,” says Dale. “A major like You learn that creativity is something you one off to a publisher and spend the next six I started sending several manuscripts at the internationally published Butterflies, has She entered the UTS Master of Writing this is not for everyone, but it’s what UTS has can improve by doing the work.” months waiting beside the letter box,” says once, so they could sit in all the publishers’ developed to the point she has an agent in program after she had published two titles, in

22 23 T feature Stories we tell The image of the writer sitting in a garret, waiting for inspiration, is a potent one. Ever since UTS started offering creative writing programs 30 years ago, the subsequent degree, doctorate and diploma courses have produced many published and award-winning writers. words mark abernethy

22 23 T feature order to polish her skills. “Doing my Masters in writing at UTS was wonderful, not just for all the insights into my craft and the input from some very smart people, but because I got to meet all these other writers who were on the same journey. “Some of the most important parts of being a writer are the things you don’t know about until you are one,” she says. “I wish I’d done that course first, because I would have learned a better way to go about things.”

Creativity abounds Another award-winning writer, Associate Professor Debra Adelaide, is now the undergraduate coordinator of the UTS creative writing programs. She says in 2014 the undergraduate writing programs will change from sharing a major with ‘cultural studies’, to becoming a six-subject major simply called ‘creative writing’. The subjects are: Fictional Forms, Imagining the Real, Narrative Theory, Writing Through Genre, UTS alumni published authors Dr Pamela Freeman Dr Kate Grenville Dr Peter Minter Writing Laboratory and Creative Writing Doctor of Creative Arts; Master of Arts in Doctor of Creative Arts Master of Arts in Writing (Research); Project, which will produce a portfolio of the A snapshot of UTS alumni Writing; Bachelor of Arts in Communication http://kategrenville.com/home Doctor of Philosophy students’ creative work. authors and their work: Julie Chevalier www.pamelafreemanbooks.com/ Bearded Ladies; Lillian’s Story; Dreamhouse; http://peterminter.com The change shifts creative writing into Master of Arts in Writing (Research) Ember and Ash; The Murderers’ Apprentice; Joan Makes History; Dark Places Overland its own academic discipline and no longer Deborah Abela http://juliechevalier.net/fiction/ The Black Dress; The Willow Tree’s Daughter; The Idea of Perfection; The Secret River; The ties it to cultural studies. Adelaide says a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Permission to Lie Windrider; The Centre of Magic; Hair of the Lieutenant; Sarah Thornhill Pip Newling university cannot teach a person to write but www.deborahabela.com Skeleton; Scum of the Earth; Trick of the Light; Master of Arts in Professional Writing a well-taught course can show developing Ghost Club (three-book series); Max Remy Katerina Cosgrove Shipborn; Victor’s Quest; The Wonder Dog; Dr Ashley Hay http://pipnewling.com/about/ writers how to construct plots, develop Superspy (10-book series); Jasper Zammit Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Communication; Make Me the Flowergirl; Nanna; Cherryblossom Doctor of Creative Arts Knockabout Girl characters and move the narrative along. (Soccer Legend) (three-book series); The Doctor of Creative Arts and the Golden Bear; Princess Betony and the www.ashleyhay.com.au/books.html “You can nurture creativity. There are Remarkable Secret of Aurelie Bonhoffen; www.katerinacosgrove.com/ Unicorn; Lollylegs; The Castings Trilogy (Blood The Railwayman’s Wife; The Body in the PM Newton shortcuts that can be taught, that show a Grimsdon Bone Ash Sky; The Glass Heart; Southern Sun, Ties, Deep Water, Full Circle) Clouds; Museum: The Macleays, Their Graduate Diploma in Information new writer how to do it better,” says Adelaide, Aegean Light: Poetry of Second-Generation Collections and the Search for Order; Management; Graduate Certificate in Writing; whose latest book is a collection of short Dr Manisha Amin Greek-Australians; Intimate Distance Susanna Freymark Herbarium; Gum: The Story of Eucalypts and Master of Arts in Writing (Research) stories, Letters to George Clooney. Doctor of Philosophy Masters in Creative Writing Their Champions; The Secret: The Strange http://pmnewton.blogspot.com.au/p/pm- Adelaide says the interesting aspect of http://manishajolieamin.com/ John Dale www.susannafreymark.com/ Marriage of Annabelle Milbanke & Lord Byron newton.html the undergraduate writing program is the Dancing to the Flute Master of Arts in Writing; Doctor of Losing February The Old School academic quality of the applicants to the Creative Arts Jill Jones undergraduate writing program and how Jesse Blackadder www.john-dale.net Dr Anna Funder Graduate Diploma in Communication; Master Yvette Poshoglian realistic and mature the students are. “I’m Masters in Creative Writing Leaving Suzie Pye; Huckstepp – A Dangerous Doctor of Creative Arts of Arts in Writing (Research) Bachelor of Teaching in Secondary in awe of these young students. They don’t www.jesseblackadder.com Life; Wild Life; The Dogs Are Barking; http://annafunder.com/ www.jilljones.com.au/books.html Education; Grad Dip in Journalism come in asking for a publishing contract – Chasing the Light; The Raven’s Heart; After the Dark Angel All That I Am; Stasiland. Dark Bright Doors; Broken/Open; Struggle & www.yvetteposhoglian.com they ask how many drafts they should write, Party; Stay: The Last Dog in Antartica; Paraku: Radiance; The Mask and the Jagged Star My Australian Story: Escape from Cockatoo how they can make their drafts better. They The Desert Brumby; Ringo: The Lost Flying Fox Anh Do Nikki Gemmell Island; Ella and Olivia (six-book series). show a lot of patience and hard work.” Bachelor of Business Master of Arts in Writing (Thesis); Bachelor of Dr Andy Kissane Adelaide says that some of the smartest Christopher Cheng www.anhdo.com.au Arts in Communication Doctor of Creative Arts Aimee Said graduates in UTS creative writing go on to Diploma in Teaching The Happiest Refugee www.nikkigemmell.com/novels.php http://andykissane.com Bachelor of Arts in Communication pursue successful careers in publishing, not www.chrischeng.com/ Shiver; Lovesong; Cleave; The Bride Stripped The Swarm; Under the Same Sun www.aimeesaid.com.au/my-books.html necessarily writing. “I was at a publisher’s Sounds Spooky; One Child; Python; Water; New Dr Suzanne Falkiner Bare; With My Body; Alice Springs; Pleasure: An Little Sister; Finding Freia Lockhart. meeting for my latest book recently, and Gold Mountain; The Melting Pot; Zoo You Later; Doctor of Creative Arts Almanac for the Heart; The Book of Rapture; Dominic Knight two people representing the publisher were Seams of Gold; William’s Backyard http://suzannefalkiner.com/ Honestly; Why You are Australian Master of Arts in Professional Writing Conrad Walters graduates of our undergraduate program.” The Imago: E.L. Grant Watson & Australia; www.domknight.com Master of Arts in Creative Writing She says the UTS writing programs have Dr Bernard Cohen Joan in India; Lizard Island: The Journey Susanne Gervay Disco Boy; Comrades http://journeysonthesilkroad.com/ always sought a balance between theory and Doctor of Creative Arts of Mary Watson; The Writer’s Landscape: Master of Arts in Writing (Thesis) Journeys on the Silk Road (with Joyce Morgan) practice, analysis and redrafting. “Writing www.writingworkshop.com.au/bernard.html Wilderness; The Writer’s Landscape: www.sgervay.com Eleanor Limprecht is about thinking,” says Adelaide, “but it’s The Blindman’s Hat; The Antibiography of Settlement; Ethel: A Love Story; Eugenia, I am Jack; Super Jack; Always Jack; Butterflies; Daisy Master of Arts in Creative Writing For the full list of UTS alumni published also about doing. The UTS writing courses Robert F. Menzies; Hardly Beach Weather; A Man; After the Great Novelist; Rain in the Sunshine; The Cave; Terror Incognito; That’s Why I www.eleanorlimprecht.com authors, see the TOWER app (available for succeed because we’ve found a balance.” T Tourism; Snowdome Distance; Room to Move Wrote this Song; Ships in the Field; Gracie and Josh What Was Left both iPad and Android).

24 25 T feature order to polish her skills. “Doing my Masters in writing at UTS was wonderful, not just for all the insights into my craft and the input from some very smart people, but because I got to meet all these other writers who were on the same journey. “Some of the most important parts of being a writer are the things you don’t know about until you are one,” she says. “I wish I’d done that course first, because I would have learned a better way to go about things.”

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“I’ve learnt that you don’t commit to a massive five-year project when you’re just being born.” Creating futures clary castrission Self-described ‘accidental social entrepreneur’ Two years ago, Clary Castrission and his “I was very naïve and thought we only give children two hours’ extra training after Clary Castrission has played a vital role in 40K Foundation faced a crisis. The opening needed $40,000,” says Castrission of the school in basic literacy, numeracy and life of the foundation’s Banyan School, near project that eventually cost $400,000. “I had skills. Castrission describes it as a “gameified improving the lives of impoverished students in Bangalore in southern India, should have no business plan and no idea how to raise learning program”, where children work in India –a journey of many highs and lows. been a moment of celebration after five funds or register and build a company.” groups of three to progress through various years’ hard work. Instead, Castrission felt While 40K focused on building the levels and earn badges to pin to their shirts. words lucinda schmidt photography steve brown exhausted and discouraged. infrastructure, it teamed up with a local Now, 11 villages have “pods” of about 30 “Building the school actually left quite partner for day-to-day operations. But children each. Castrission’s vision is to have a hollow feeling,” says Castrission, who set the partnership was difficult to manage; 40,000 children learning in 1250 pods up the Sydney-based foundation in 2005, creating tensions that eventually saw 40K within five years, and to eventually have to help educate some of the 110 million leave the project after the school opened in thousands of pods in multiple countries. children in India who lack basic literacy October 2010. and numeracy skills. “It consumed my life, “It ended on a bad note, we got divorced Riding the highs and the lows but we really didn’t do enough strategy on and they got the kids,” he explains, adding Underpinning the 40K Plus program are what was next after building the school.” that the relationship is now good and the two for-profit businesses that build on 40K’s Castrission calculated that, at most, he school has 300 children aged between six expertise in addressing social problems in would be able to build another 30 schools, and 12. “We learnt a lot about the complex developing countries. 40K Globe is a social for about 6000 students, and he wanted to relationship of donor and recipient, and entrepreneurship program for university make a much bigger difference than that. that any kind of welfare arrangement students, who pay $1800 for four weeks in entrepreneurs in big companies develop In hindsight, the crisis was a blessing. It creates that dependence.” India developing business plans to help projects within their company to help a forced two major changes to 40K, which After much soul-searching through 2011, villagers. In 2013, 100 students completed social problem. The goal is to offer younger, have been implemented over the past 18 40K came up with a new strategy. Rather the summer program; about half of them emerging leaders a meaningful project months. Rather than building more schools, than building schools to compete with the from UTS; for 2014, 180 are enrolled. that goes beyond charitable fundraising. the foundation now provides after-school government schools, its 40K plus program 40K Consulting is a fee-for-service For example, its first client, an Australian lessons in existing village buildings, uses Android-based computer tablets to advisory business that helps budding social construction company, is developing a through its 40K Plus program. And it has $15 million project to provide ultra low cost, set up two for-profit businesses to support high quality dormitory accommodation for the work of the foundation and eventually Singapore’s many foreign workers. make it financially self-sustainable. 40K Globe – a student’s experience Eventually, Castrission hopes the Castrission, who travels to India four UTS student Janek Gonsalkorale, who is studying a combined Bachelor in consulting and Globe divisions will or five times a year, describes himself as Communication (Media Production) and International Studies, shares his insights on substantially fund the 40K Plus program. an accidental social entrepreneur. He participating in the 40K Globe program in 2013. At present, parents pay $1 a month, but came from a private school background “I was signed up to the BUiLD program of UTS (Beyond UTS International Leadership the cost per child is $3.80. The shortfall is where, he says, the understanding was that Development Program) which offered many diverse overseas opportunities in met by donations and fundraising events students would become professionals and microfinancing, social entrepreneurship, and other projects involving our educational such as 40K’s Big Night Out in Sydney, but “make a truckload of money then at some backgrounds. 40K stood out as it was involved with education on a massive scale, it was Castrission says the personal cost of trying to point give something back”. ambitious, new, and seemed ready to tackle problems with an energetic, ambitious and raise philanthropic dollars is high. “You will His attitude changed under the guidance no nonsense attitude. essentially burn out every contact. I got to the of Professor Sam Blay in his UTS law course, “The first time I went it was learning how to ‘get your hands dirty’, as Clary likes to say, in point where I just couldn’t pick up the phone who urged students not to wait to make a the problems of the villages in Bangalore. We worked on social impact projects during the and ask for more donations – I was burnt out.” difference, but to go to the developing world day (businesses and projects that would be self sustaining and subsidise the education Castrission has somehow found time to and get their hands dirty. of the kids such as renting android tablets, making necklaces, or building a tour guide) run marathons and three ultra-marathons, and worked in small intense groups. Then after we taught kids for two hours in the PLUS including a 100km run through the Blue Dream becomes a reality pods. I had no idea how challenging this would be, and everyone was physically and Mountains. Piano playing is another way he During the 2004/05 summer holidays, emotionally pushed to their limits at some point. Above all else, we learnt about teamwork relaxes, teaching himself Beatles tunes from Castrission and his then girlfriend threw on and managing a lot of expectation, emotion and group dynamics, which is something that YouTube. And he keeps a toe in the legal backpacks and headed to India. His family is incredibly valuable to anyone who wants to be involved in any bigger picture. world by delivering a torts lecture on Friday background is Greek, not Indian, but he says “But the program is really an internship rather than a volunteer program, as they have nights at the University of Sydney. India “seemed like a cool place to go”. After packed it with so much you learn about the rigour and reward of this sort of work. It’s If 2011 was the hardest year, Castrission seeing the devastating impact of extreme an eye opening experience and one that a lot of people who may be unused to being says the past two years have highlighted how poverty, and deciding that education was pushed outside of their comfort zone will find unforgettable and truly rewarding. I business can be the most powerful tool to the best way to change lives, he established became a team leader in the next trip, which was even more challenging than the first change the world. “I still like the idea of being the 40K Foundation to raise $40,000 to build time. It has made me more insightful as to the successful traits of leaders, and what kind a bit naïve and having a crack, but I’ve learnt Top: 40K PLUS children from Dodda Gubbi village outside Bangalore India. Bottom: UTS students as 40K Globers teaching women in the Maranahalli Bande quarry to make Roka a school for the children of impoverished of leadership style I adopt.” that you don’t commit to a massive five-year jewellery. (Bottom left: Katie Ball and Tegan Dennehy. Back right: Conchita de Souza.) stone quarry workers near Bangalore. project when you’re just being born.” T

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Find out the latest exciting a visionary developments taking shape at UTS as part of the $1 billion campus City Campus Master Plan. words lesley parker

Creative brick work A prominent feature of the exterior of the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building will be its undulating, east-facing façade built from bricks designed and custom-made for this project. In a construction milestone, specially trained tradesmen recently began laying the bricks. Explaining the distinctive look of this part of the building, lead designer and partner of Gehry Partners Craig Webb says architect Frank Gehry has long been fascinated with implying “movement” in architecture. “A lot of our buildings work with this idea of fluidity. The interest here was to achieve that, to create the feeling of fluidity in a mass of material,” he said on a recent visit to Sydney. While traditional bricklaying comes with its own challenges, the complexity of the curves and angles of the Dr Chau Chak Wing Brickwork has begun on the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, “It symbolises for us the intersection of two very a “treehouse” on a café napkin – imagining a building where Building façade has involved five new types of brick being developed. the Frank-Gehry designed landmark that will be the new important themes at UTS: creativity and technology,” people undertake quiet, focused work in offices and other Each of the five types of brick will serve a specific function. home of UTS Business School. It’s a key milestone, and Milbourne says. “It’s symbolic of UTS being a very rooms in its “branches” then meet in formal and informal Those known as “K-Bricks”, for instance, have been designed so one naturally there will be much focus on the exterior as the important part of the creative industries in Sydney, it puts social spaces in the “trunk”. part sits within the wall while the rest safely protrudes from the distinctive, undulating brick façade emerges on the east us on the international map – and it will also be a great place “Thinking of it as a treehouse came tripping out of my surface. The shadow these bricks cast on the wall articulates the side of the building. for our students.” head … A growing, learning organism with many branches bend in the façade. The next most visible step will be the shaping of the Lead designer and partner of Gehry Partners Craig Webb of thought,” he said later. Most of the 320,000 bricks will be fitted with ties that connect western façade, with its angular glass shards. says: “If what we’re trying to do with the building succeeds, That treehouse metaphor has been realised in a design them to the underlying steel structure for reinforcement. The ties The brick façade will be an earthy reminder of the the alumni are going to go out and change the world. That’s that encourages interaction, UTS Business School Dean increase the strength of the brickwork, particularly in the “corbelled” sandstone that once formed the warehouses, factories what we hope for.” Professor Roy Green says. areas, where one brick projects over another. The bricks will be laid at and market buildings of the local economy in Ultimo, on “UTS sought out Frank Gehry as architect because of angles of up to 26 degrees. Above: view of the edge of Sydney’s Darling Harbour; the large, angled Laying the foundations his experience in the development of creative spaces,” The brick walls, including the underlying steel structure, have the Dr Chau Chak sheets of glass will reflect fragmented images of today’s Gehry, one of the world’s most influential architects, designs Green says. Gehry is known for his work on museums and gone through rigorous testing, first in China for earthquake loading Wing Building city buildings. “from the inside out”. Interior spaces must be developed on educational facilities such as those at the Weatherhead and extreme storms and then by experts in UTS’s own Faculty of from the new Goods Line But, as distinctive as it is, Gehry’s design is more about before work on design of a building’s exterior can begin, School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Engineering and IT. One of those tests involved a hydraulic jack (courtesy Gehry what will happen on the inside of this building than what explains Webb, the architect’s long-time creative partner. Technology (MIT) and Princeton University. applying more than 500 kilograms to a prototype structure to Partners LLP). you’ll see on the outside. “The exterior emerges only as a result of what will happen “UTS wanted an architect who could embody its confirm its stability under pressure. Page 29: UTS Vice-Chancellor Ross Milbourne says the Dr Chau inside the building.” contemporary approach to business education in the – with Celia Britton Prototype of the Dr Chau Chak Chak Wing Building “will be not only a great thing for UTS That meant intense consultation with UTS and the Business design of the new building,” he says. Wing Building’s but a great building for the City of Sydney and a great School about their philosophy of learning and research. UTS Business School prepares students for a world that Watch Craig Webb’s video interview on the TOWER app (iPad and brick façade. building for Australia”. Gehry’s creative reaction to what he gleaned was to sketch demands more than specialist expertise in a particular Android) and online at www.alumni.uts.edu.au

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Find out the latest exciting a visionary developments taking shape at UTS as part of the $1 billion campus City Campus Master Plan. words lesley parker

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discipline, Green adds. It aims to produce “integrative thinkers” who can combine traditional business skills with those from disciplines such as design and engineering. “The school takes a practical and integrative approach to business education. The new building needed to both symbolise this approach and help translate it into real and relevant research and learning outcomes.”

Connectivity and interactivity UTS wanted a building that would encourage greater interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-pollination The design is also aimed at deepening the school’s links of ideas among and between disciplines, researchers, with the city. Once completed in late 2014, the Dr Chau Chak industry and practitioners. Wing Building will be an important research and education The practical realisation of this comes in a number of destination, not just for students but also for business and University while delivering one of the most dealing with hazardous materials such as forms, including the “social” spaces at the trunk of the building the community. The green mile complex science buildings in Australia.” human blood and primary cell lines. The and the prominent use of stairways to move people around, The new building will be available to all business Words Steve Meacham Originally the LRS, Thomas Street facilities will be ideal for a broad range providing the opportunity for serendipitous meetings. programs but its focus will be postgraduate and executive Building and Alumni Green expansion of medical science research, will enable Top right: A striking polished-steel staircase that will be the education. UTS Business School’s growing Executive The gigantic hole in the heart of UTS, so were conceived as three separate projects. biomedical engineers to develop new Staircase of sculptural focal point of the entrance lobby literally Education program will be based on the specially designed huge that it took six months to dig and Three different architectural groups won and innovative medical devices and help the foyer in Dr Chau Chak reflects the movement of people – and metaphorically the eighth floor, with access to the roof terraces at that level. can swallow the equivalent of a five- the individual design competitions and a prepare students for clinical placements. Wing Building movement of ideas. storey building, is no more. Four of the six different construction company would have Health and science students will divide (courtesy Gehry In the learning spaces on the lower levels, two oval International attraction extraordinary robots built in Salt Lake City been working on each project, side-by-side. much of their time between the building’s Partners LLP). classrooms – suggestive of log cabins in their wood-based More broadly, the building sits at the epicentre of have arrived by sea and are being installed It was only then that the decision was new 188-seat lecture theatre and “the Below: Thomas St Building design – will allow students to interact with each other Australia’s largest creative and digital industries precinct, in the vast subterranean cavity designed made to combine all three, not only to Superlab”, which Treble describes as “the (courtesy across the room and with their teacher at the centre or to being surrounded by ICT, finance, creative and media to house only the second underground significantly reduce construction costs and first of its kind in Australia. It’s designed to Durbach Block the side, rather than having a front-facing focus. businesses in the area comprising Ultimo/Pyrmont, Library Retrieval System (LRS) ever built in minimise disruption, but to integrate the cater for 220 students, taking part in maths, Jaggers and BVN A 120-seat lecture theatre will swiftly convert into a Redfern/Everleigh, the central business district and Australia, capable of storing up to 900,000 individual elements into a dynamic whole. physics or environmental studies at the Architecture). format allowing collaboration in small groups then a return Surry Hills. books and locating each one within minutes. The rethink, with its design working parties, same time through up to four two-way Page 31: Alumni Green (courtesy to the front again, while seminar rooms will be configured UTS is co-leader, with the Commonwealth Bank of took six months and put even greater channels through their headphones”. ASPECT Studios). as flexible, flat-floor spaces with mobile furniture. Australia, of the federal government’s new Creative Digital Alumni Green and the pressure on Richard Crookes Construction, Sustainability Manager Danielle Innovation Partnership (CDIP), which is aimed at driving Library Retrieval System the contractor that won the right to build McCartney points out the Thomas Street growth and jobs in these industries. Above the LRS, the bone structure of the all three, to deliver on time. But Treble says Building has been designed to achieve As part of Sydney’s business events network, the new-look, greatly-expanded Alumni Green UTS is the winner. Treble proudly rattles off a certified 5-star Green Star rating. The building is expected to attract tens of thousands of will soon take shape, flanked to the north by facts which underline just how innovative material for its facade is made in Germany interstate and international visitors annually, adding the elegant, roof-gardened Thomas Street the three-in-one project really is. by the Sto group from 90 per cent recycled millions of dollars a year to the tourism industry in Building, planned as a world-class health The LRS is the largest, fully underground material. Solar panels on the roof will help spending by visitors. and scientific research facility. retrieval system of its kind in Australia. power the building, while rainwater will not It will also be a destination on Sydney City’s “cultural From now until construction finishes in The revamped Alumni Green, with its only irrigate the roof garden but flush the ribbon”, which extends from the Sydney Opera House August 2014, staff and students will be able to barbecues, table tennis areas and quiet toilets. Research trees on Level 8 will create to UTS at the southern end of the city’s business district, monitor the week-by-week physical progress contemplative pods, “will be a space to chill what McCartney calls “a living laboratory”, encompassing key locations such as Darling Harbour and of the three integrated projects which will out, to meet people, a space we haven’t had linking directly with the greenhouses the Powerhouse Museum. It sits alongside the $1 million collectively cost in excess of $150 million. before,” says Treble, comparing it to similar on the top of the existing science block, ‘Goods Line’, an elevated city park now under construction. “Anyone can build an office block or recreation areas at Harvard or Stanford. Building 4 (also soon to be refurbished). The Goods Line is so named because of its past role in a shopping centre, but you don’t get this How will the three-in-one project carrying freight from harbour warehouses to Central opportunity very often,” says Marc Treble, Health and science in the improve the UTS campus and enhance Railway Station. Executive Project Manager of the entire Thomas Street Building the lives of students and staff? The vastly An entrance off The Goods Line will enable public access three-in-one development (The Broadway As for the 13,800 square metre Thomas improved library service and Alumni Green to the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, further enhancing the Building and the Frank Gehry-designed Street Building, designed by Sydney relaxation space bring obvious benefits. “porosity” of the building and its connections to the city. Dr Chau Chak Wing Building are handled architects Durbach Block Jaggers in As for the Thomas Street Building, The Dr Chau Chak Wing Building is part of the $1 billion by separate teams). association with BVN Architecture, it comes Treble says: “The research facilities will redevelopment of the UTS City Campus. It is named for “The University has embarked on a complete with world-class research tools. attract world-leading researchers and Australian-Chinese businessman and philanthropist tremendous journey to build a world-class Among them are forensic science labs, scholars engaged in a range of medical Dr Chau Chak Wing, who donated $20 million to the campus. They’ve employed first-class MRI and CT scan imaging suites, a vacuum science research, in particular cardio- project, along with $5 million for Australia-China designers and constructors to join them. fume extraction system, clean suites and vascular and cancer research which in scholarships. Dr Chau’s son, Eric, studied at UTS. T Together they are renewing the heart of the two physical containment laboratories for itself will attract high quality students.”

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Holland believes the ideas and input “I didn’t decide!” she insists. “I was born Reconciliation and Integration ministry has she receives from the Luminaries program into a family where that was the trajectory the chance to promote genuine peace. will make a big difference to what she can to go. I come from a family of politicians. My “Which I think it will because it’s a bring to her role in healing Zimbabwe’s father and mother, my grandmother, my program from the people – the policies are Zimbabwean Senator challenged political system. grandfather – they were people who were based on what the people have told us. I will a heroine In a further nod to the profound impact always in their society ahead of their time.” then say we, the Zimbabwean people, did Sekai Holland has and commitment Holland has on human As a former minister, Holland faced some that together and it took us out of the pit into repeatedly put her life on rights, democracy, leadership, and the horrendous pressures. the new Zimbabwe. the line to improve the lot empowerment of women, in 2013 she “Working with people that you know that “The Organ’s mandate was to produce an of underprivileged people. was awarded an Honorary Doctorate: if your back is turned they would probably infrastructure for peace and to advise [the a healer Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) from UTS, just stab you to death!” she says. “And really leaders] on what they should do to administer words peter switzer further deepening her close and ongoing knowing that they’d do that, it’s not just talk transitional justice to Zimbabweans for the photography nick cubbin connection to the University. … but knowing that politically we cannot political damage done before independence follow the normal Western way of waiting and after independence. Australian story for elections to then take office.” “And we’ve produced the infrastructure In a colourful life, Sekai Holland has been Before looking to the future, however, let for peace and the methodology we used shot at, almost beaten to death and is the us profile the remarkable woman herself. People power was to have a grassroots-based national subject of constant harassment. Not once, Holland’s first taste of Australia was via a It is hard for Australians to grasp what drives inclusive consultative process where we however, has she been tempted to give up Commonwealth scholarship she won when a woman like Holland, but then few of us asked the Zimbabweans what it would take on her goal of delivering justice and a better Sir Robert Menzies was Prime Minister in have put our life on the line for a better future for them to have peace in Zimbabwe.” life for people, especially her compatriots in the 1960s. Unluckily, when she arrived in for our fellow countrymen and women. strife-torn Zimbabwe. the country, it was Australia Day. Life is all about the big picture for her True leader Holland is the former Zimbabwean “Nothing was open and so I sat outside the and the challenges are so huge that the After spending time with Holland, a question Co-Minister of State for National Healing, Embassy and luckily some students from normal human being might have difficulty naturally surfaces – what qualities are Reconciliation and Integration in the my country came looking for their mail and appreciating their enormity and significance. required for someone to truly be a leader? government of President Robert Mugabe and so I went home with them,” Holland recalls. Holland puts the issue into perspective, “You have to live the kind of life which former prime minister Morgan Tsvangirai, She quickly found her feet in Australia saying the Organ for National Healing, ensures that you encourage rather than which was formed as part of a power-sharing and married engineer Jim Holland in demoralise people. You ensure that the deal following elections in 2008. 1965 and together they had two children. programs, the policies, all the things you’re Holland was awarded the 2012 Sydney Along the way she completed a Bachelor coming up with, really improve the lives of Peace Prize, in a ceremony hosted by the of Arts in Communication at the NSW the population,” she counsels. “And you have Australian Embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe. Institute of Technology, UTS’s predecessor to lead the kind of life that is exemplary! So Holland travelled to Australia last November institution, before returning with her family that people know that they are not out there to give the City of Sydney Peace Prize to Zimbabwe in 1980 to be part of the post- on their own; that you’re in it together.” Lecture at the Sydney Town Hall, and liberation nation-building movement. Listening to Holland, you cannot help to accept the Peace Prize at the awards Ultimately, history tells us that Holland but admire her courage. So her take on ceremony. The award puts her in the would become a champion for the rights of this important characteristic of leaders is company of earlier winners such as Noam others. She cut her teeth in these endeavours insightful. “Courage, I think, is a word which Chomsky, John Pilger, Patrick Dodson, in Australia as a founder of the anti-Apartheid humans don’t understand. Because you only Arundhati Roy and Desmond Tutu. movement in the late 1960s, and also through understand courage when you are put to the Like many unique, courageous human other initiatives such as being the driving test. And I think all humans are endowed beings who stand out from the crowd and force behind the creation of Redfern’s with that quality, but they do not know they put their life on the line for others, Holland Murrawina Child Care Centre, a facility have it until they are put [on] the spot.” T is underwhelmed with herself. Indeed, she catering for Indigenous children. could not believe she had won the Peace Prize, Watch Sekai’s video interview on the TOWER but felt honoured by the acknowledgement Born to fight app (iPad and Android) and online at and was also proud to be invited to be a Holland had once been the most senior www.alumni.uts.edu.au founding member of the UTS Luminaries woman in Robert Mugabe’s guerilla program, an initiative that recognises a organisation during the 1970s struggle against Sekai Holland receiving her Honorary select group of alumni who have a sustained the Rhodesian government of Ian Smith. Doctorate from UTS (images courtesy of GFP Studios). record of outstanding achievement. However, on the back of her outspoken “I think the Luminaries idea gives call for democracy, she was expelled from me a very good opportunity to actually the organisation, listed as a dissident, shot go to them and ask for different ideas at and beaten up by police before joining about how to do my job as a co-patron Morgan Tsvangirai in his bid to establish and fundraiser for the Midlands State the opposition Movement for Democratic University,” says Holland, referring to the Change to provide a real alternative to innovative learning institution, which has a one-party rule in Zimbabwe. mission to contribute to the education and Listening to her life story, it is clear that it development of Zimbabwean people. The was inevitable Holland would take an active University aims to have 10 faculties by 2015. role in the human rights struggle.

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32 33 T feature Meet Kai Chen: Shanghai reunion global guest speaker UTS Alumnus Kai Chen was recently the guest speaker at the UTS Shanghai alumni reunion event. UTS’ Internationalisation Strategy not only networks Chen graduated with two degrees from UTS: a Master supports student mobility, international and of Engineering Management and an MBA. Chen was recently announced as a finalist for two 2013 Australia cultural engagement, but is helping further China Alumni Awards: the Australia China Alumni of deepen the University’s global networks. the Year Award and the Australia China Alumni Award International for Entrepreneurship. words roger balch Chen recalls the challenges of writing papers in his Alumni Reunion tours 2013 early days at UTS, when he adopted a fixed structure The International Alumni Reunion tours are integral to nurturing that is encouraged throughout the education system those special bonds that develop between UTS and its students. This in China. “We should state our views first, then analyse year’s took place in June and July, and were especially memorable and argue and finally come up with a conclusion,” Chen as UTS celebrates its 25th anniversary. The gatherings were held in explains. “But each time, I failed to get a high score. At first, prestigious hotels in seven Asian cities – Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh I thought it was some kind of discrimination.” However, City, Jakarta, Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai – and featured he soon came to the realisation that his papers always distinguished guest speakers, including Australian ambassadors, such followed a set pattern. “UTS needs you to be creative and as the Australian High Commissioner to Singapore, Philip Green, and have shining points. This creative thinking has had a outstanding alumni, such as Kai Chen, founder and General Manager of strong influence on my later work. Now, I always ask my Aucksun Metal Co Ltd, and a leading businessman in China. subordinates, ‘What’s your opinion? Any new ideas?’” It’s the challenges and opportunities of the Asian Century Asia. This last factor is essential, as it allows students to easily One of the attendees at the Singapore event was Gregory Cornelius After graduating from UTS, Chen joined a subsidiary that inspire UTS’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and participate in global conferences, community volunteer (pictured above, top right), the Managing Director of a small digital of VSC Group – a distributor of construction and Vice-President (International and Development) programs and short-term study programs. marketing company, who undertook a Graduate Diploma in Design industrial materials in Hong Kong and China – as a Professor Bill Purcell to devote so much of his time to BUiLD is open to all UTS students and free to join, so at UTS in 1999. “Keeping in touch with current staff, like Bill Purcell, Quality Manager and Manufacturing Manager, where driving UTS’s deeper engagement with the region. He that they can sign up to programs such as the partnership and the Singapore alumni is important because the people are the he was later promoted to General Manager in 1999. strongly believes Australia can share in the opportunities between Pollinate Energy and the University. Pollinate lifeblood of the institution,” he says. Chen reveals the extent of his problems in the new role. afforded by the region’s new-found prosperity only if Energy’s goal is to eradicate energy poverty in India through For Grace Wang (Master of Business 2004, by research – pictured “The worst was not the loss, but the breach of customs “we can harness the right capabilities”. This enthusiasm locally manufactured and affordable clean energy solutions above, bottom right), the Beijing alumni network is essential because laws. We were in a really bad situation. Then, I went to is shown through Purcell’s involvement in innovative that are much safer than expensive fuels like kerosene. It has China is a society where relationships mean everything. “So – Hong Kong to report my work. I told the Group CEO that programs such as BUiLD and International Alumni events. joined forces with UTS to provide four BUiLD Abroad Travel whatever your career is – people need to network. To be connected the company had serious problems. The CEO replied, Around 4500 of UTS’s international students are from the Grants for the Pollinate Energy Fellowship Programs running with UTS also keeps a window open to see what is happening in ‘That’s why I employed you’. A professional manager pays Asia region (excluding North Asia/Gulf region), while more in December 2013 and January 2014. Sydney – especially in the fields where UTS has great achievements attention to limited things. He might think that running than 500 alumni attended the various reunions. “We sent more than 1500 students to more than 10 and plays a leading role in research and industry.” a business is just his specialty. He can’t see far and may Purcell is convinced that the new jobs being created in Asian countries, with the majority coming from BUiLD as Kwok Chiu Cheung (picture above, left) completed the UTS Master quit after running the business for several years. But an Asia will require not only UTS graduates to be “Asia-skilled”. part of our mobility program to build the global skills and of Engineering Management course in March 2010 and is now working entrepreneur needs to think about all kinds of things, He believes that this focus will benefit not just the University intercultural capabilities of our students to enable them to as a service manager at General Electric, in measurement and control. have a long-term goal and treat his business like his child.” but Australia as a whole. “UTS will also have an important work effectively in the region post graduation,” says Purcell. He is also the new chair of the UTS Hong Kong International Alumni That approach has certainly paid off in Chen’s role to play in building an Asia-literate and language- network and worked closely with the UTS Alumni office to prepare the career. After five years as General Manager at VSC capable nation that will be able to effectively take up the Scholarships and China Hong Kong event, which was held at the Island Shangri-la hotel. Group, he started up a business – Aucksun Metal Co Ltd, opportunities provided by the Asian Century,” he says. In 2014, 28 scholarships will be offered to UTS students Cheung says that involvement in alumni associations provides headquartered in Zhangjiagang, China – where he is “It is estimated that by 2025 the majority of the world’s funded by Dr Chau Chak Wing. The $5 million scholarship graduates with a platform to grow their professional and personal General Manager and Director. Aucksun is engaged in middle class will be located in Asia – and for the first time endowment fund was gifted to UTS at the same time as a insight into life away from university. “Graduates will not only three areas – metal logistics, new energy and finance. in our history, Australia’s geographic position in the world $20 million donation to help fund the construction of a new be exposed to limitless networking opportunities but to various “My 14 years’ working experience as a General will provide it with a competitive advantage across the building for the UTS Business School. From 2014, the number cultural, academic and professional societies to further their Manager is the key in the success of Aucksun. If I can be provision of a range of goods and services.” will increase to 39. The scholarships, administered by the involvement in the community,” he says. counted as successful, that’s because I’ve become an UTS Scholarships Office and UTS:International, are awarded Cheung is enthusiastic about helping to improve the already entrepreneur instead of a professional manager.” Lead and achieve in five categories: for UTS BUiLD students to participate in strong alumni network. “We are endeavouring to build a solid Hong Farther afield, UTS’s global leadership program, BUiLD, short-term programs in China; for UTS masters students (in Kong alumni platform [that’s] reflective of graduate ideals and is a vital component of deepening UTS’s and Australia’s any faculty) to study at an approved university in China; attitudes, to maintain a sound relationship with UTS Sydney. In doing engagement with Asia, and very close to Professor Purcell’s for UTS students at Shanghai University’s Sydney Institute so, we are empowered to shape the future of UTS as leaders in the heart. “I am always championing BUiLD,” he says. As its name of Language and Commerce (SILC) to study on campus in international network of education providers and a community of suggests, this program builds students’ leadership potential by Australia; for students from UTS’s Key Technology Partner knowledge builders and thought leaders.” giving them the opportunity to be inspired by internationally (KTP) universities in China to undertake a masters by Cornelius sums up the importance of the UTS alumni network: renowned leaders; to create life-long networks with students coursework at UTS; and, as part of ongoing professional “UTS is a new world university – it’s a forward thinking and and professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds; and development within Chau’s Kingold corporation, for one progressive educational institution. That’s why I’m proud to be to take advantage of Sydney’s location and frequent flights to employee to undertake a masters degree at UTS. T associated with it.”

35 34 35 T feature Meet Kai Chen: Shanghai reunion global guest speaker UTS Alumnus Kai Chen was recently the guest speaker at the UTS Shanghai alumni reunion event. UTS’ Internationalisation Strategy not only networks Chen graduated with two degrees from UTS: a Master supports student mobility, international and of Engineering Management and an MBA. Chen was recently announced as a finalist for two 2013 Australia cultural engagement, but is helping further China Alumni Awards: the Australia China Alumni of deepen the University’s global networks. the Year Award and the Australia China Alumni Award International for Entrepreneurship. words roger balch Chen recalls the challenges of writing papers in his Alumni Reunion tours 2013 early days at UTS, when he adopted a fixed structure The International Alumni Reunion tours are integral to nurturing that is encouraged throughout the education system those special bonds that develop between UTS and its students. This in China. “We should state our views first, then analyse year’s took place in June and July, and were especially memorable and argue and finally come up with a conclusion,” Chen as UTS celebrates its 25th anniversary. The gatherings were held in explains. “But each time, I failed to get a high score. At first, prestigious hotels in seven Asian cities – Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh I thought it was some kind of discrimination.” However, City, Jakarta, Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai – and featured he soon came to the realisation that his papers always distinguished guest speakers, including Australian ambassadors, such followed a set pattern. “UTS needs you to be creative and as the Australian High Commissioner to Singapore, Philip Green, and have shining points. This creative thinking has had a outstanding alumni, such as Kai Chen, founder and General Manager of strong influence on my later work. Now, I always ask my Aucksun Metal Co Ltd, and a leading businessman in China. subordinates, ‘What’s your opinion? Any new ideas?’” It’s the challenges and opportunities of the Asian Century Asia. This last factor is essential, as it allows students to easily One of the attendees at the Singapore event was Gregory Cornelius After graduating from UTS, Chen joined a subsidiary that inspire UTS’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and participate in global conferences, community volunteer (pictured above, top right), the Managing Director of a small digital of VSC Group – a distributor of construction and Vice-President (International and Development) programs and short-term study programs. marketing company, who undertook a Graduate Diploma in Design industrial materials in Hong Kong and China – as a Professor Bill Purcell to devote so much of his time to BUiLD is open to all UTS students and free to join, so at UTS in 1999. “Keeping in touch with current staff, like Bill Purcell, Quality Manager and Manufacturing Manager, where driving UTS’s deeper engagement with the region. He that they can sign up to programs such as the partnership and the Singapore alumni is important because the people are the he was later promoted to General Manager in 1999. strongly believes Australia can share in the opportunities between Pollinate Energy and the University. Pollinate lifeblood of the institution,” he says. Chen reveals the extent of his problems in the new role. afforded by the region’s new-found prosperity only if Energy’s goal is to eradicate energy poverty in India through For Grace Wang (Master of Business 2004, by research – pictured “The worst was not the loss, but the breach of customs “we can harness the right capabilities”. This enthusiasm locally manufactured and affordable clean energy solutions above, bottom right), the Beijing alumni network is essential because laws. We were in a really bad situation. Then, I went to is shown through Purcell’s involvement in innovative that are much safer than expensive fuels like kerosene. It has China is a society where relationships mean everything. “So – Hong Kong to report my work. I told the Group CEO that programs such as BUiLD and International Alumni events. joined forces with UTS to provide four BUiLD Abroad Travel whatever your career is – people need to network. To be connected the company had serious problems. The CEO replied, Around 4500 of UTS’s international students are from the Grants for the Pollinate Energy Fellowship Programs running with UTS also keeps a window open to see what is happening in ‘That’s why I employed you’. A professional manager pays Asia region (excluding North Asia/Gulf region), while more in December 2013 and January 2014. Sydney – especially in the fields where UTS has great achievements attention to limited things. He might think that running than 500 alumni attended the various reunions. “We sent more than 1500 students to more than 10 and plays a leading role in research and industry.” a business is just his specialty. He can’t see far and may Purcell is convinced that the new jobs being created in Asian countries, with the majority coming from BUiLD as Kwok Chiu Cheung (picture above, left) completed the UTS Master quit after running the business for several years. But an Asia will require not only UTS graduates to be “Asia-skilled”. part of our mobility program to build the global skills and of Engineering Management course in March 2010 and is now working entrepreneur needs to think about all kinds of things, He believes that this focus will benefit not just the University intercultural capabilities of our students to enable them to as a service manager at General Electric, in measurement and control. have a long-term goal and treat his business like his child.” but Australia as a whole. “UTS will also have an important work effectively in the region post graduation,” says Purcell. He is also the new chair of the UTS Hong Kong International Alumni That approach has certainly paid off in Chen’s role to play in building an Asia-literate and language- network and worked closely with the UTS Alumni office to prepare the career. After five years as General Manager at VSC capable nation that will be able to effectively take up the Scholarships and China Hong Kong event, which was held at the Island Shangri-la hotel. Group, he started up a business – Aucksun Metal Co Ltd, opportunities provided by the Asian Century,” he says. In 2014, 28 scholarships will be offered to UTS students Cheung says that involvement in alumni associations provides headquartered in Zhangjiagang, China – where he is “It is estimated that by 2025 the majority of the world’s funded by Dr Chau Chak Wing. The $5 million scholarship graduates with a platform to grow their professional and personal General Manager and Director. Aucksun is engaged in middle class will be located in Asia – and for the first time endowment fund was gifted to UTS at the same time as a insight into life away from university. “Graduates will not only three areas – metal logistics, new energy and finance. in our history, Australia’s geographic position in the world $20 million donation to help fund the construction of a new be exposed to limitless networking opportunities but to various “My 14 years’ working experience as a General will provide it with a competitive advantage across the building for the UTS Business School. From 2014, the number cultural, academic and professional societies to further their Manager is the key in the success of Aucksun. If I can be provision of a range of goods and services.” will increase to 39. The scholarships, administered by the involvement in the community,” he says. counted as successful, that’s because I’ve become an UTS Scholarships Office and UTS:International, are awarded Cheung is enthusiastic about helping to improve the already entrepreneur instead of a professional manager.” Lead and achieve in five categories: for UTS BUiLD students to participate in strong alumni network. “We are endeavouring to build a solid Hong Farther afield, UTS’s global leadership program, BUiLD, short-term programs in China; for UTS masters students (in Kong alumni platform [that’s] reflective of graduate ideals and is a vital component of deepening UTS’s and Australia’s any faculty) to study at an approved university in China; attitudes, to maintain a sound relationship with UTS Sydney. In doing engagement with Asia, and very close to Professor Purcell’s for UTS students at Shanghai University’s Sydney Institute so, we are empowered to shape the future of UTS as leaders in the heart. “I am always championing BUiLD,” he says. As its name of Language and Commerce (SILC) to study on campus in international network of education providers and a community of suggests, this program builds students’ leadership potential by Australia; for students from UTS’s Key Technology Partner knowledge builders and thought leaders.” giving them the opportunity to be inspired by internationally (KTP) universities in China to undertake a masters by Cornelius sums up the importance of the UTS alumni network: renowned leaders; to create life-long networks with students coursework at UTS; and, as part of ongoing professional “UTS is a new world university – it’s a forward thinking and and professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds; and development within Chau’s Kingold corporation, for one progressive educational institution. That’s why I’m proud to be to take advantage of Sydney’s location and frequent flights to employee to undertake a masters degree at UTS. T associated with it.”

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Artificial intelligence “What our With its 50 staff and research students, the CAS is focusing research is on two key problems in robotics; ‘robots in unknown and complex environments’ such as bridges and confined trying to achieve spaces and ‘human robot interaction’ which includes its is to model and ‘assistive’ robots used in aged care facilities. anticipate some Dr Jaime Valls Miro, an Associate Professor at CAS, says bridge intelligent autonomy and the ability of robots to collaborate of what we might with humans are key aspects of the robotics research at CAS. do and take Imagine a wheelchair that follows people or a walker that senses when its user suddenly stands and so can apply the advantage of that brakes. “Our assistive robots can cooperate and collaborate to provide timely climb with human beings. We are working with an organisation assistance. We on robots that can aide the operator of certain equipment as well as the user,” explains Valls Miro. take cues from For example, an intelligent wheelchair that follows a the environment, human can allow a carer to take more than one person such as what a out on excursions, a project currently being carried out in collaboration with Greystanes Disability Services. The project user is trying to do has been short-listed for the 2013 NSW Disability Industry and then develop Innovation Awards, highlighting the collaboration between something that industry and research in national disability services. will help them Shared control out. It is very What is unique about this type of robotics is ‘shared control’ where the reaction between a human and a robot are challenging.” modelled so they can work together. Dr Alen A grit-blasting robot that can help strip lead-based paint from the Sydney Harbour Unlike an industrial robot in a factory setting, which might be programmed to do a repetitive task continuously, these Alempijevic, Bridge; a robotic hoist used by carers in aged care facilities – discover the new robots are trying to second guess what a human might do. Lecturer at generation of robots being developed by UTS’s Centre for Autonomous Systems. “We as human beings are naturally unpredictable. We the centre for do things very well but sometimes we don’t know how we words bina brown photography trevor king do them. There is a lot of uncertainty in what we might do autonomous next,” says Dr Alen Alempijevic, a Lecturer at CAS. systems Hard workers, including actor Paul Hogan, may have Then there are the awkward positions and confined “What our research is trying to achieve is to model and painted the Sydney Harbour Bridge over many years but spaces associated with the complex steel structure of a bridge anticipate some of what we might do and take advantage From top to bottom: UTS-designed robots are being used to strip the icon of the and vibrations from the traffic. “The focus of our research has of that to provide timely assistance. We take cues from Dr Jaime Valls Miro, Associate harmful lead-based signature grey. been on producing robots to address the critical problem the environment, such as what a user is trying to do and Professor; Dr Gavin Paul, The UTS Centre for Autonomous Systems (CAS) has of grit-blasting while minimising the setup time and user then develop something that will help them out. It is very Chancellor’s Post Doctoral successfully commercialised the first grit blasting robot to intervention required,” says Dr Gavin Paul, the Chancellor’s challenging,” says Alempijevic. Research Fellow, the grit blasting robot in action strip paint and rust from steel structures, minimising a range Post Doctoral Research Fellow working on the project. “What With funding from the Wollongong-based IRT Research (images courtesy of Sabre of occupational health and safety risks for maintenance staff. makes the robot unique is its ability to autonomously sense Foundation, CAS researchers are currently trialling a Autonomous Solutions). Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) of New South and map a steel structure, and then plan a suitable collision- robotic hoist used by carers in aged care facilities. Wales has been working with UTS for six years on the free grit-blasting pathway, from 25 metres away. This means Fitted with sensors the hoist is able to do things such as development of the grit-blasting robot; the first autonomous human workers can operate safely outside the blasting zone. anticipate that the carer might be taking the patient through robotic solution for harsh working environments to be “It is difficult and time consuming to get the required a nearby doorway and will start to head in that direction. developed by the recently established UTS robotics start- scaffolding up onto the bridge and then for humans to get “We are not trying to replace the carer but help make up, SABRE Autonomous Solutions. to the difficult spots and operate a high pressure cleaner to things easier for them,” says Dr Ravi Ranasinghe, a Senior “The main reason why RMS approached UTS was to help strip paint by grit blasting. The situation counts for a large Research Fellow at CAS working on the IRT project. minimise the OHS risks by reducing the amount of time percentage of the reported workplace injuries as well as the With an elderly person using a walker, a sensor might workers have to spend inside a nasty environment,” says risk of exposure to asbestos and old lead- based paints.” recognise when a person has stood up out of a chair and is Martin Lloyd, UTS Executive Manager for Innovation and Human workers set up the robot. They then leave the about to use the walker and so apply the brakes until the Commercial Development. robot’s workspace and interact with it, including starting, person is steady. It then might recognise that the person Lloyd explains that even dressed in fully protective stopping and monitoring the process, via a UTS designed wants to go to a certain room and then help them make that Above: clothing to stop the grit cutting through their skin and using touchpad interface. trip easier – such as a person with dementia who readily The Sydney essential special breathing apparatus, operating a machine Paul says the significance of this research is not so much forgets what they may have been going to do. Harbour Bridge, which essentially spits out course sand at a pressure sufficient the human interaction as the ability of the robot to determine “Having a robot as a collaborator with a human operator from which the to strip paint is physically risky and extremely tiring. its surrounds and make independent decisions about how gives a lot of flexibility for a range of different tasks,” Valls Miro grit-blasting “If they dropped the hose it would cut through their to move safely within its complex environment to complete says.. “Embodying this intelligence in robots in the field could robot strips lead-based clothing and at all times they were exposed to hazardous the difficult grit-blasting task. “After the blasting process is change the way a lot of things are done in manufacturing, in paint. materials,” he adds. completed, workers vacuum, and clean up the area,” says Paul. health care, in a whole range of innovative areas.” T

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commercial operations for seven years to grasp what was Hard slog pays off then the most poisoned chalice in Australian sport – chief In 2012, Greenberg was approached about becoming Chief executive of the scandal-ridden Bulldogs rugby league club. Executive of Cricket NSW, where he’d begun his career in Back then, the Bulldogs were in a dire state. In 2002, the 1993 after graduating from the University of New South club – then on top of the NRL table – had been exposed as Wales with a degree in Sports Science. It was during his six for the love of salary cap cheats. The club’s board also became embroiled in years at Cricket NSW that he decided that if he was going to a failed shopping centre development, among other fulfil his leadership ambitions he needed to take his Masters off-field dramas. Why did Greenberg take the job? degree at UTS. For three years, he’d drive every Tuesday to “I had some sleepless nights beforehand,” admits the UTS’s Kuring-gai campus to study from 2pm to 10pm. Newly- life-long Bulldogs supporter at his new office in the NRL’s married to Lisa, who he’d met when they were fellow fitness the game headquarters in Moore Park. “The Bulldogs were in a instructors at an Oatley gym, the final year was a strain. big hole. Untold issues off the field with players, with fan “We’d just had a new baby. I was still playing cricket. And behaviour, with corporate governance. I was working full-time,” he recalls. “It was pretty taxing. “But adversity usually provides opportunity. Having But I’m glad I stuck it out because it provided me with an worked there for four years (as operations and events enormous amount of life lessons.” manager, from 1998-2001), I knew a lot of the people and His tutors were practical and inspirational, he says. “The understood the culture. I went in with eyes open, knowing things I was learning at UTS I was applying on a daily basis, there would be difficult moments.” professionally and personally. It also opened my eyes to And so there were. “In that first year, I terminated a lot of other facets of the sports management industry. I made a players’ contracts, players whose values didn’t align with huge number of contacts. And the Masters degree gave me what I thought the club should stand for (he cites Willy a lot more structure and opened doors.” Mason and Reni Maitua). We also kept losing games, so Greenberg turned down the top job at Cricket NSW, but we finished last that season. Our best player, Sonny Bill was interviewed for the role of NRL Chief Executive. That Williams, walked out on his contract in the middle of the position eventually went to former banking chief David night (to play rugby in France). Our crowds went down. We Smith, who asked him to be Head of Football. Greenberg lost $1 million in that first year. All our sponsors told us they now oversees all aspects of the game in Australia, from wouldn’t renew in 2009. Then the GFC hit...” development programs for children to State of Origin and internationals. “Good governance is the most underrated Riding the highs and the lows commodity in sport,” Greenberg insists. “That is why rugby Still, the severity of the crisis didn’t hit Greenberg until league is yet to achieve its full potential: the governance he offered a leading charity the chance to put its logo on models haven’t been good.” the Bulldogs jersey for the 2009 season for free – and the The NRL’s crowds, club membership, commercial charity, Camp Quality which helps children with cancer, revenue are still significantly below that of the Australian turned him down. Football League, though TV rights are now comparable. Below: the Greenberg had gone to meet Camp Quality’s Chief “We’ve still got a long way to go,” Greenberg admits. “The Canterbury Executive, Simon Rountree, thinking it was a million dollar catalyst for change in our code is increased membership.” Bulldogs offer that couldn’t be refused. Free TV exposure. A fee on Rare days off are spent with his wife and two teenage in action jersey sales worth $100,000 cash. Plus a pledge that the children “within a 5km radius of my house (in Oatley)”. (courtesy of the Canterbury top 25 Bulldogs players would make repeat visits to Camp “I’m a very simple person. We’ve got a great newsagent, Bulldogs Quality’s sick children. Greenberg recalls Rountree saying, a baker, a deli, a pub and a beautiful park. I don’t need to go Rugby League “I wouldn’t touch you lot with a barge pole. There’s no way anywhere else.” T Club) I’m going to put our logo next to yours.” Shaken, Greenberg begged Rountree to let him come back with some of the players and the club’s female staff. Eventually he won the chance to pitch to the Camp Quality In the sports administration field, Todd Greenberg is a game changer – meet the board, which agreed to a year’s trial, but told him associating former chief executive of the Canterbury Bulldogs, who helped turn the ailing with the Bulldogs was “the biggest risk we’ll ever undertake”. club’s fortunes and culture around, and is now at the helm of football for the NRL. Greenberg immediately gathered all the Bulldogs players. “I told them, these guys are dealing with kids words Steve Meacham photography nick cubbin who’ve got cancer and they think we’re the risk. Every decision, every action you make, on or off the field, will At 42, Todd Greenberg is one of Australia’s leading sports are Greenberg’s major passions (as a teenage batsman for impact not only on us but also on Camp Quality. We have an administrators. He’s been the award-winning chief Randwick, he aspired to winning a Baggy Green). obligation to do what’s right.” executive of arguably our most controversial professional Since completing his Masters in Sport Management That anecdote speaks volumes for Greenberg’s style. footy club; held a lynchpin executive role at Sydney’s at UTS in 1997, the father of two has won plaudits galore, By the time he left the club earlier this year (2013), people Olympic stadium dealing with everything from including NSW Sports Administrator of the Year in 2009 ashamed to admit they were Bulldogs fans had returned The Rolling Stones to the Bledisloe Cup; and he now and being called one of ‘Sydney’s top 100 most influential to the fold. Membership had grown sixfold. The club was holds the impressive title of Head of Football at the people’ by a glossy magazine. back in the black. It had reached a Grand Final. And newly National Rugby League (NRL). Yet Greenberg’s meteoric rise has involved massive recruited players discovered they needed to demonstrate Insiders believe he’ll eventually assume the throne of challenges, particularly in 2008 when he left the security not only that they had footy skills but they also shared either the NRL or Cricket Australia, since league and cricket of ANZ Stadium where he’d been general manager, Bulldogs values.

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at a very early age, but that was a great to race for Union Cycliste Internationale In the mid-1990s, Coventry enrolled in developer for me.” (UCI) World Tour points. “Santos has a one of the first ethics degree programs with Her next role gave her international strong social tilt,” says Coventry. Its name a business and philosophical focus, at the experience and launched her into the world was originally an acronym for South University of New South Wales. Coventry of fast moving consumer goods (FMCG). Australia Northern Territory Oil Search, emerged with a Masters of Ethics, adding Driven to Coventry joined German haircare company and the company has a deep financial and breadth to her undergraduate education Wella AG, and spent time at the company’s emotional commitment to South Australia. and psychology studies. headquarters in Darmstadt, near Frankfurt, While Coventry’s career has been Now, after completing an MBA, Coventry to help prepare the company for sale (Wella forged across companies in vastly different is continuing her further education, was eventually acquired by US multi- industries – retail, financial services, energy, undertaking a PhD with the University succeed national Procter & Gamble in 2003). education, and FCMG – she says her “main of Melbourne’s Centre for Ethics and Another FMCG job followed, this time tilt” has always been human resources. Leadership. Her focus is on gender equality, moving to the US to work with the Coca- That tilt has fostered a strong interest in and what factors influence female senior Cola Company covering the Middle East business ethics; not corporate governance executives to remain at organisations and and Asia for multiple functions. There, in a narrow sense, but a broader passion for to rise to leadership roles. says Coventry, she learned about global the philosophically-based notion of what is Although Coventry works long hours expansion, massive restructuring programs, the right thing to do? in her “day job” at Santos, on her university supply chain management, mergers and Coventry also donates to UTS’ Students research and as a board member of the acquisitions and global branding. Facing Financial Hardships Scholarships Australian Human Resources Institute – “Every time there was something no Fund. She says she gives, and will continue leaving very little time for another passion, one else wanted to cover – manufacturing, to give, to education because: “I’m only yoga – she says she’s very content with R&D, quality assurance, supply chain here because others helped me (in my case her balance. management – I’d always put my hand my parents). Education is the ticket out of “Work/life balance is what you make up,” she says. “I was covering about poverty – if I can help buy that ticket for of it. I figure I’ve got the perfect work/life one-third of the company, from an HR someone worthy, it’s worth buying.” balance, but it may not suit other people.” perspective, before I was 30, which was a As to why she herself has been able to fantastic experience.” Lead and achieve rise to senior leadership positions in the That experience was invaluable when she In her various roles advising senior corporate world, Coventry says her main moved to another US giant, General Electric executives at large corporates, Coventry drive and inspiration comes from within – (GE) – although the GE brand at that stage believes it’s important for her to be able to helped by a “great husband”. had very little recognition in Asia, where guide their rational and critical thinking, “I’m constantly wanting to do better, Coventry was to help set up GE Energy. with a moral perspective. “In those senior be better, do more,” she says. “I have a “Nobody knew who it was, there was no executive roles, it is about storytelling determination to be seen as credible and footprint, no operations,” says Coventry, and argument – in a positive sense, not a successful, despite my background. If you who spent six years with GE Energy in negative sense,” she says, adding that good come from nowhere, come from nothing, Hong Kong, then another two years with ethics equals good business. you have to prove yourself.” T GE Capital in Japan. That time gave her exposure to a company that had decades of experience in developing leaders and “Education is the ticket out of poverty – if I can help buy drive harder than perhaps those from an management processes and systems. establishment, urban upbringing. “UTS After moving to Singapore for a one-year that ticket for someone worthy, it’s worth buying.” Having carved an impressive corporate career in a has this feel that’s all about the desire to stint with a private equity group, Coventry range of global companies, for Singapore-based succeed, to be recognised and to be there joined Santos in 2009. Coventry, who has petrina coventry Petrina Coventry, good leadership is all about giving back. on the map, despite its humble origins.” not lived permanently in Australia for 20 years, says Singapore is now home, words lucinda schmidt photography emma squires-mccarthy Then and now although she doesn’t miss Australia Coventry’s first job, while she was studying because she is frequently back for work. After more than 20 years working in senior and gas producer Santos Ltd and a director part-time at university, was at Coles Myer, executive roles for some of the world’s biggest of its Singaporean subsidiary, Santos which offered a broad-based management Making a social impact companies, Petrina Coventry says her first International Pte Ltd. trainee program. The retail giant was rolling At Santos, Coventry manages teams university degree – a Bachelor of Education Her focus and determination, even out SuperKmart – 12 in 18 months – and responsible for people, communities and from UTS – still helps her every day. The at that young age, came, she says, from Coventry relished the opportunity to learn corporate ethics. She also spearheads psychology component in particular, has growing up in rural regions of New South about retail, industrial relations, scheduling, the company’s volunteering efforts, been invaluable in helping Coventry manage Wales. She and her older sister were the balance sheets, cash flow and shopping which include fund raising, research Asian expansion projects for Coca-Cola, first in the family to go to university and centre dynamics. and sponsoring various arts, education General Electric and Procter & Gamble. Coventry realised she wanted more “It was fabulous, I was thrown in at the and sports initiatives. The week-long “It gives you the ability to understand applied skills than she would gain from a deep end,” says Coventry, who ended Santos Tour Down Under, for example, is people, to take people on a bit of a journey general arts degree. up running the Human Resources and the biggest cycling race in the southern and drive teams towards change,” “I think UTS was a perfect fit for my Training programs for Coles Myer’s hemisphere, drawing professional cyclists says Coventry, who is the chief human background,” Coventry says, adding that Liquorland division. “I was given from around the world to Adelaide and resources officer of leading Australian oil she felt she had to be smarter, better and responsibility way beyond my experience regional South Australia each January

40 41 T profile

40 41 T profile Braveheart Burmese refugee Sher Mu La Wee overcame unimaginable adversity to positively transform her life through education, with the invaluable support of a UTS scholarship. Are you ready Words Rosemary Ann Ogilvie to change the world? During her interment, Sher grabbed Without your support, I wouldn’t have every opportunity to learn. She was able achieved this.” We are. to complete her education to year 10, the Studying at UTS has been a joy: Sher At UTS, we believe education has the power to transform lives highest level available in the camp. She likens it to winning the lottery. “Not only and change the world. We also believe every student should learnt English from an Australian teacher, has UTS equipped me to become a great Helen Hall, and also mastered Thai. With nurse in the future, it also provides great be given the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless her native Burmese, plus the Karen dialect support services. All my teachers are really of circumstances. (Sher belongs to the Karen ethnic group), and supportive and understanding when I For many, an education is only possible with the financial Twelve years in a refugee camp on Pwo Karen (another language spoken by the sometimes experience difficulties. UTS is the Burma-Thai border, enduring the Karen people), she was now proficient in five like my family, my second home. I have the support of others. In 2012, UTS provided $14 million for restrictions and – even worse – the languages, and these skills enabled her to best life here, I am so lucky.” scholarships, accommodation and other programs. But, there stultifying boredom of unvarying daily become an interpreter in the camp. In 2007, Sher’s goals for the future are impressive: is more work to be done. routine, certainly left Sher Mu La Wee Sher was granted a humanitarian visa. after an initial stint in general nursing, she feeling hopeless at times. However, true to “I felt so excited, I couldn’t believe it had plans to study for her Graduate Certificate By supporting our Annual Appeal this November you can help her name – which in Karen means ‘hope’ – finally happened,” she recalls. “I could now of Nursing (Critical Care). Once she’s gained provide scholarships to support the next generations of leaders she never abandoned hope. study, work hard and have a successful life.” sufficient clinical experience, she will and innovators tackle the big challenges facing us. “Living in those sheltered walls, it seems Sher wasted no time setting up the work on her Masters degree, and when her there’s nothing there for you,” Sher says. “But I list that would enable her to qualify for children are older, she’ll start her PhD. giving.uts.edu.au/appeal2013 kept believing, because I knew that one day a university. At the same time, she worked “Sher Mu La, we are proud to say, will door would open for me, that I would have an with the Refugee Health Service as a bring positive change to the lives of all opportunity to study at university level.” bilingual community educator, and with she touches through her experience of, From a young age, Sher understood the NSW Health as an interpreter. and support from UTS,” comments Jane power of education to transform lives. “All my teachers and employers Westbrook, Director of External Relations. “My mother, who was a nurse, would say supported me with the documentation, “Equity of opportunity is central to UTS to me, ‘I have no money, no jewellery, no and so I was given the opportunity to policy and culture, and the aim is always to gold to give to you, but the thing I want to sit the interview with the Director of the do more, for more students like Sher Mu La. tell you is education can make you a better Midwifery and Nursing at UTS,” says Sher. “In this celebratory 25th Anniversary person, give you successful life’.” She was offered a place in 2010 – the only year, we are particularly keen to support the Nursing was always Sher’s passion. Her Karen to study at UTS to date. UTS principle of enabling potential through resolve to become a nurse was strengthened While she’s excited at the prospect of education,” Westbrook continues. “The UTS by an experience few Australians could graduating in May, she stresses it would Annual Appeal is a large-scale fundraising imagine: Sher and her family spent several have been impossible without the Diversity campaign with the aim of supporting a key months hiding in the jungle after their village Access Scholarship, one of the many in the priority area of activity. While a healthy was burned to the ground in a military junta UTS scholarship portfolio, which is a focus community of staff members regularly attack in 1994. “We had no food or shelter. of this year’s Annual Appeal. Every year donates to UTS, the majority of people Many babies were born, and many of the UTS gives around $14m of scholarships contacted are UTS alumni, who are asked to elderly became ill from diarrhoea, malaria, to students, rewarding achievement and make a tax-deductible donation in response yellow fever, and dengue fever. Some people supporting students in need. to a compelling case for support. had gunshot wounds. Some were starving. “The scholarship helped me in many ways, “This year, we are piloting a campaign My mother and my two brothers almost died. freeing me from financial worries to allow me of contacting alumni by phone. While

“People were suffering, but there was to focus on my studies,” she says. “It helped we cannot hope to call all our wonderful appeal annual no medical treatment available. I wanted with childcare fees – I’m a single mother with alumni as part of this campaign, everybody to deliver nursing care and do something two young children – and it allowed me to can help us reach our goal.” to help save lives, but with no medication have an internet connection, which means I available it was very difficult to provide can study at night after the kids go to sleep. To make a donation, please visit Sher Mu La Wee, UTS Diversity Access assistance and support.” “So to all the donors, and to everyone www.giving.uts.edu.au/appeal2013 or Scholarship recipient. Somehow they survived, and eventually who has helped me with this scholarship, contact the External Relations Office on made their way to the refugee camp. I would like to say thank you so much. (02) 9514 9825. 2013 42 T profile Braveheart Burmese refugee Sher Mu La Wee overcame unimaginable adversity to positively transform her life through education, with the invaluable support of a UTS scholarship. Are you ready Words Rosemary Ann Ogilvie to change the world? During her interment, Sher grabbed Without your support, I wouldn’t have every opportunity to learn. She was able achieved this.” We are. to complete her education to year 10, the Studying at UTS has been a joy: Sher At UTS, we believe education has the power to transform lives highest level available in the camp. She likens it to winning the lottery. “Not only and change the world. We also believe every student should learnt English from an Australian teacher, has UTS equipped me to become a great Helen Hall, and also mastered Thai. With nurse in the future, it also provides great be given the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless her native Burmese, plus the Karen dialect support services. All my teachers are really of circumstances. (Sher belongs to the Karen ethnic group), and supportive and understanding when I For many, an education is only possible with the financial Twelve years in a refugee camp on Pwo Karen (another language spoken by the sometimes experience difficulties. UTS is the Burma-Thai border, enduring the Karen people), she was now proficient in five like my family, my second home. I have the support of others. In 2012, UTS provided $14 million for restrictions and – even worse – the languages, and these skills enabled her to best life here, I am so lucky.” scholarships, accommodation and other programs. But, there stultifying boredom of unvarying daily become an interpreter in the camp. In 2007, Sher’s goals for the future are impressive: is more work to be done. routine, certainly left Sher Mu La Wee Sher was granted a humanitarian visa. after an initial stint in general nursing, she feeling hopeless at times. However, true to “I felt so excited, I couldn’t believe it had plans to study for her Graduate Certificate By supporting our Annual Appeal this November you can help her name – which in Karen means ‘hope’ – finally happened,” she recalls. “I could now of Nursing (Critical Care). Once she’s gained provide scholarships to support the next generations of leaders she never abandoned hope. study, work hard and have a successful life.” sufficient clinical experience, she will and innovators tackle the big challenges facing us. “Living in those sheltered walls, it seems Sher wasted no time setting up the work on her Masters degree, and when her there’s nothing there for you,” Sher says. “But I list that would enable her to qualify for children are older, she’ll start her PhD. giving.uts.edu.au/appeal2013 kept believing, because I knew that one day a university. At the same time, she worked “Sher Mu La, we are proud to say, will door would open for me, that I would have an with the Refugee Health Service as a bring positive change to the lives of all opportunity to study at university level.” bilingual community educator, and with she touches through her experience of, From a young age, Sher understood the NSW Health as an interpreter. and support from UTS,” comments Jane power of education to transform lives. “All my teachers and employers Westbrook, Director of External Relations. “My mother, who was a nurse, would say supported me with the documentation, “Equity of opportunity is central to UTS to me, ‘I have no money, no jewellery, no and so I was given the opportunity to policy and culture, and the aim is always to gold to give to you, but the thing I want to sit the interview with the Director of the do more, for more students like Sher Mu La. tell you is education can make you a better Midwifery and Nursing at UTS,” says Sher. “In this celebratory 25th Anniversary person, give you successful life’.” She was offered a place in 2010 – the only year, we are particularly keen to support the Nursing was always Sher’s passion. Her Karen to study at UTS to date. UTS principle of enabling potential through resolve to become a nurse was strengthened While she’s excited at the prospect of education,” Westbrook continues. “The UTS by an experience few Australians could graduating in May, she stresses it would Annual Appeal is a large-scale fundraising imagine: Sher and her family spent several have been impossible without the Diversity campaign with the aim of supporting a key months hiding in the jungle after their village Access Scholarship, one of the many in the priority area of activity. While a healthy was burned to the ground in a military junta UTS scholarship portfolio, which is a focus community of staff members regularly attack in 1994. “We had no food or shelter. of this year’s Annual Appeal. Every year donates to UTS, the majority of people Many babies were born, and many of the UTS gives around $14m of scholarships contacted are UTS alumni, who are asked to elderly became ill from diarrhoea, malaria, to students, rewarding achievement and make a tax-deductible donation in response yellow fever, and dengue fever. Some people supporting students in need. to a compelling case for support. had gunshot wounds. Some were starving. “The scholarship helped me in many ways, “This year, we are piloting a campaign My mother and my two brothers almost died. freeing me from financial worries to allow me of contacting alumni by phone. While