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AdelaideanNEWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF Volume 12 • Number 11 • December 2003

inside this issue

PAGE 7 Why Guy’s our Olivia’s a model student with a taste for gastronomy

PAGE 9 Chess masters make a move for championship

PAGE 13 Wheat crop has added health benefits

PAGE 19 Thirty years on, the mystery solved

PAGE 2 It’s a summer of love… for study!

PAGE 4 China’s chief scientist opens lab in Adelaide

PAGE 10 Concern over killer lung disease levels among smokers Before becoming a national star, grabbed World-class drug and the attention of classmates alcohol research at the centre opens Photo courtesy of BMG Music PAGE 15 Hot flowers – sexy rewards Guy Sebastian gave the University PAGE 16 Love of sport vaults Jennifer to success of Adelaide a taste of his undoubted musical

PAGE 20 Mitchell’s study going talents earlier this year – as a student. swimmingly While most students wait until lucrative recording contract, a high Technology. But events overtook they’ve finished their studies before profile and a ready-made fan base his studies, and he took time off to making a name for themselves, eager for more of his vocal talents. pursue his Australian Idol dream. Guy has gone from studying at the The 22-year-old music teacher and According to Elder School of Music university’s prestigious Elder School recording engineer had been studying lecturer Dr Mark Carroll, those of Music to becoming a national star as part of the Vocational Education in Guy’s class were unexpectedly —and all within a matter of months! and Training (VET) program at the treated to a marvellous showcase of The University of Adelaide Along the way he’s earned the praise Elder School of Music. VET offers his ability earlier this year. is Australia’s third oldest of former classmates and staff at the hands-on, pre-degree courses as university and is known “Guy was fairly low key around the internationally for excellence Elder School. a thorough grounding for further in research and teaching. music studies. place—the quiet guy with the beanie Australian Idol, watched weekly and the ’fro,” Dr Carroll said. by millions of television viewers Specifically, Guy was enrolled in www.adelaide.edu.au nationwide, has provided Guy with a the Certificate IV program in Music continued on page 6 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 It’s a summer of love… for study! Students already winning from The University of Adelaide Summer School is now racing car competition a natural part of Adelaide’s vibrant summer life. University of Adelaide students are revving up for an

With this season offering up events “Our Summer School reflects For instance, the University of drawing on the resources of every international car design and racing competition. such as the Adelaide Festival the University of Adelaide’s Adelaide’s academic faculties offer faculty in the university.” of Arts, Writers’ Week and the commitment to flexibility in a range of short award and non- In addition, members of the public Fringe Festival (with its Hub at the education, and a responsiveness award courses during the summer will again be drawn to the wide University of Adelaide), why not to changing student, community break. These courses provide selection of short courses over An Adelaide team involving third-year continue the theme of personal and business needs,” said Liz new and advancing University summer that are open to everyone. Mechanical Engineering students inspiration, intellectual stimulation Pryzibilla, Director of the Centre of Adelaide students, as well as will compete in this year’s Formula and enjoyment by taking part in our for Professional & Continuing students from other local, national These include a range of Intensive SAE-A competition, being held from Summer School? Education, which coordinates the and international universities, with Language courses catering from December 4-7. Summer School. greater flexibility in their studies. the beginner to the advanced The Summer School is a unique learner, one-day Professional and The competition pits students from offering of intensive and/or short “Whatever your age, whatever “These students now have an Personal Development courses, around the world against each other degree courses, preparatory your qualifications, you’ll find opportunity to spread their Year 12 Summer holiday courses, in the design, construction and courses, special interest and opportunities to expand your workload over the whole year, and special interest community racing of their own formula-style, professional update courses, all knowledge and skills at the accelerate their degree, pick up courses. open-wheeled racing cars. offered during the summer months. Summer School. prerequisites, re-take a subject or Formula SAE member Hosted by Mitsubishi Motors Donny Pascale with have time to study subjects outside Anyone can enrol in the Summer “Each course offers a vibrant Australia, the competition will be President and CEO To find the course that best School, with classes open to learning atmosphere leading the normal range of their degree,” held at the company’s Tailem Bend of Mitsubishi Motors suits your needs or interests, Australia Tom Philips current and commencing University to a rewarding and enriching Ms Pryzibilla said. testing site. phone (08) 8303 4777 or visit Photo by Ben Osborne of Adelaide students, students from experience. We have an “As the Summer School develops we the Summer School website: Teams from 21 universities from other universities and members of exceptional selection of courses to aim to offer an even bigger range www.adelaide.edu.au/summerschool Australia, the United States, “Formula SAE gives Mitsubishi been held in Australia, and the first Students manage the entire project, the community. choose from,” she said. of award and non-award courses, Germany, Sweden and Japan will and other representatives from the time in . including scheduling, budgeting, fundraising and cost control, compete for honours at the event. automotive industry the opportunity Executive Director of SAE Australasia sourcing equipment, materials and The official launch of this year’s to spread our contribution over Stuart Charity said the student- components, manufacturing and Formula SAE-A competition was a large number of enthusiastic designed cars are judged in a range students. testing. Adelaidean held last month at the University of of categories, including design, fuel Wine Centre remains open to public Adelaide. “All future employers benefit from economy and endurance. The University of Adelaide is the only Editor: South Australian university to have a David Ellis Speaking at the launch, President and Formula SAE being the catalyst “Students working on these vehicles team in this year’s event. Writers: The University of Adelaide has responded to public CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Australia which exposes those students represent the leaders of the next Ben Osborne, Howard Salkow, In announcing the acquisition, Vice- with the ability and the passion David Ellis demand and extended free entry to the National Tom Philips said the competition generation of engineers that will The Adelaide team faces tough Design and Layout: Chancellor Professor James McWha gave Australian car makers to succeed.” help guide and shape the future of competition from Rochester Institute Chris Tonkin said the National Wine Centre would Wine Centre until the end of January 2004. the opportunity to see the best Formula SAE gets its name Australia’s car industry,” Mr Charity of Technology, the Georgia Institute Contributors: provide improved links with the wine Dr Stephanie Agius, Nicole Stones, Kim engineering talent in Australia. from the Society of Automotive said. of Technology and Auburn University McBride, Benjamin Leske industry and would enhance the from the US, Chalmers University Mr Mark Szolga, the university’s “Mitsubishi has a strong belief in Engineers (SAE), which began in “Formula SAE offers young engineers Printed by: university’s position in Australia and from Sweden and Tokyo Denkai Lane Print Group Commercial Director, said the the value of education and hands-on the United States in 1980. The the opportunity to work on a globally “as the leading Australian University from Japan, among others. Distribution: institution was keeping its initial experience,” Mr Philips said. “These SAE-A competition represents the meaningful, complex engineering wine educator”. Lane Print Group promise by making the centre are outcomes we believe students Australasian arm of the Society. This project in a dedicated team Around 400 students and 150 Passing Out Distribution Co. “It also offers unique marketing Advertising: accessible to the public. should be exposed to at university. is the fourth year the competition has environment.” volunteers are involved this year. opportunities and much needed KRL Media “When we announced the acquisition Tel: +61 8 8231 5433 space for the expansion of our wine- Fax: +61 8 8212 1238 in February, we said a major objective related programs,” Professor McWha Email: [email protected] was to engage Adelaidians and said. Coming Events: provide them the opportunity to Please send all coming events to the editor explore one of the city’s true icons,” The university now has enough space at the address below. There is no charge for coming events, but they must be Mr Szolga said. to accommodate 200 students in university related. wine sensory evaluation classes, and “Since opening the centre to the Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha the centre’s Busby Hall has already Deadline for next issue: public in September, we have at the National Wine Centre Tuesday, January 13, 2004 Photo by David Ellis been used for this purpose. received fantastic support from Room G07 Mitchell Building, South Australia, 5005. the people of Adelaide. This has indefinite free entry. In October The University of Adelaide currently Tel: +61 8 8303 5174 prompted us to extend free entry more than 5000 people visited offers 20 wine-related courses, and Fax: +61 8 8303 4838 through the summer holiday period more than 780 students, including 30 Email: [email protected] the centre. giving people the opportunity to visit international students, were enrolled www.adelaide.edu.au/pr/publications/ In February this year the university Adelaidean/ the centre.” last year. There are undergraduate agreed to lease the National Material may be reproduced without and postgraduate courses. permission but acknowledgement must be Visitation to the wine centre Wine Centre for $1 million for 40 given to the Adelaidean. has significantly increased since years from the South Australian The wine centre will continue to cater Registered by Australia Post September and Mr Szolga said Government. The university moved to special events and conferences. No 565001/00046 consideration is being given to into the wine centre on September 1. Story by Howard Salkow

2 3 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 China’s chief scientist opens lab Talented pianist wins Galliver award Student pianist Michael Ierace was the major winner in in Adelaide this year’s prestigious David China’s most senior Galliver Memorial Awards. scientist has opened a The awards, held as the final Elder Butler, who performed Zivkovic’s new soil environment School of Music Lunch Hour Concert Ultimatum I for Solo Marimba laboratory during his for 2003, are given to honour the (Op 24 No 1). memory of Professor David Galliver, The other two finalists were third- who served as the fifth Elder visit to the University year flautist Alex Castle, who Professor of Music between 1966 and performed the third movement from of Adelaide. 1983, and who died in 2001. Ibert’s Concerto for Flute and The new laboratory of Soil Biology/ Professor Lu speaking A third-year Bachelor of Music Orchestra and the fourth movement Soil Environmental Science has at the official launch of (Performance) student, Ierace the new laboratory from Muczynski’s Sonata for Flute been jointly established between Photo by David Ellis was chosen ahead of three other and (Op 14); and soprano the University of Adelaide and the Bachelor of Music students, Jessica Dean, who performed Chinese Academy of Sciences, and received $1200. Fauré’s Mandoline (Op 58, No 1), with a new lab at the university’s For the final, he gave impressive Handel’s “E pur così and Piangerò Waite Campus and its “twin” at The launch was attended by senior “Our soil scientists are working explored the Chinese Academy’s renditions of Ravel’s “Ondine”, la sorte mia” from Julius Caesar the Chinese Academy’s Research managers and scientists from on several key research projects role in the development of science from Gaspard de la Nuit and and Schubert’s Die Männer sind Center for Eco-Environmental the University of Adelaide and that are of major interest to our and technology in China. Rachmaninov’s Prelude in B flat mechant. Sciences in Beijing. its collaborating partners, and countries’ agricultural industries, (Opus 23, Number 2). Professor Lu said he was impressed A new series of Elder Hall Lunch It is the first joint facility of its kind several key guests including South as well as moves to improve the with the quality of the facilities Second place in the awards went Hour Concerts will begin on Friday, Michael Ierace performing at the David Galliver Memorial Awards between China and Australia. Australian Environment Minister overall environmental condition of at the University of Adelaide to third-year marimba player Paul March 19, 2004. Photo by Chris Koch Mr John Hill. our soils,” she said. The President of the Chinese and by the potential for further Academy of Sciences, Professor Lu Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) During his visit to the University collaboration across a range Yongxiang, headed a delegation to Professor Edwina Cornish said of Adelaide Professor Lu toured of disciplines. Australia last month. the University of Adelaide was facilities at the Waite Campus, and extremely pleased to welcome “Australia and China are Professor Lu, who is also a he and members of his delegation Macquarie Trio Professor Lu and his delegation. facing similar changes in our Vice-Chairman of the Standing also learnt more about the environments, and research that Committee of the National People’s “Professor Lu’s visit is indicative university’s research capabilities The Adelaidean is giving away Congress (the highest organ of the closer research links is conducted in both our countries in nanotechnology and molecular can have many potential benefits of State power of the People’s between the university and the biosciences at the North Terrace a quartet of double-passes to Republic of China), officially Chinese Academy that will result in not just for us but also for the Asia- Campus. see the Macquarie Trio! opened the new laboratory at significant gains in environmental Pacific region,” Professor Lu said. the Plant Research Centre, research of benefit to both Australia Professor Lu gave a well-attended The Macquarie Trio Australia has announced its 2004 Story by David Ellis Waite Campus. and China. free public lecture, in which he Adelaide subscription season, and you can help them celebrate by winning two tickets to each Adelaide concert. In 2004 the Trio—comprising Kathryn Selby (piano), Nicholas Milton () and Michael Goldschlager (cello)—will have four subscription concerts in Adelaide, Honorary professorship awarded all at the University of Adelaide’s Elder Hall. One lucky reader has the chance to win a double pass to China’s most senior scientist has each Adelaide concert. In total, the double-passes are been awarded the title of Honorary valued at more than $260, which makes them ideal as a Professor in the Faculty of Sciences “The title is in recognition of his international gift for the musically minded this Christmas. contributions to the sciences and to the academic life The four Adelaide concerts next year are: at the University of Adelaide. of the University of Adelaide through the promotion of greater friendship and collaboration between our Faculty 2.30pm Sunday, May 30 The title was formally bestowed upon of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. From Here to Eternity (Beethoven, Granados and Professor Lu Yongxiang (pictured, right) “We look forward to many years of association Messiaen) with special guest artist Paul Dean on clarinet during his visit to the University of between Professor Lu and the university, and Adelaide last month. we are keen to explore new partnerships and 2.30pm Sunday, August 1 “The award of this title to Professor Lu research initiatives with China. The Power of Three (Sibelius, Beethoven and Dvorák) recognises the important association “We are honoured that Professor Lu has been 2.30pm Sunday, September 26 between the University of Adelaide and able to visit the University of Adelaide this First Impressions (Schumann, Korngold and Fauré) with To win the double-passes to each of these concerts, the Chinese Academy of Sciences,” month to build upon the links that have the university’s Chancellor, Mr Robert already been established between our special guest artist Brett Dean on viola be the first to callAdelaidean editor David Ellis on Champion de Crespigny (left), said. two institutions.” 2.30pm Sunday, November 21 (08) 8303 3173 and leave your name and details. Youthful Masters (Mozart, Kats-Chernin and Schubert) www.macquarietrio.com.au

4 5 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Olivia’s a model student with a taste for gastronomy

Guy Sebastian is not only an outstanding ‘‘performer, he is a very intelligent musician. ’’ Why Guy’s our idol

story continued from page 1

“The event that brought his talent “I gave him 100% for his Professor Bodman Rae said the developed. But his achievement is to the attention of myself and the presentation—not something I do Certificate IV program in Music really the tip of an iceberg. other students in our theory class lightly, but it was simply so far over Technology was an interesting choice “There are many very talented was when, towards the end of the and above what you would expect in for a student who would go on to win musicians around Australia—in both first semester, I asked the students that sort of situation that I had no the hearts of millions of Australians. the classical and popular fields—and to give a short presentation on choice, I’m happy to say. “This is a program with strong we are fortunate to have a lot of a piece of music of their choice, “Not long after that the Idol roller vocational relevance for budding them here, in Adelaide. The lesson, I and to talk about the way the tune coaster started and we lost touch singer-songwriters—because these suppose, is that talents need careful ‘worked’—a reasonably ambitious, Olivia Stratton studying in the Barr Smith Library’s Reading Room (although he asked one of the days popular songs tend to be nurturing and channelling. Photo by Ben Osborne but intentionally thought- other students to thank me for the composed (and often performed) provoking ask. “Guy will undoubtedly be an mark). But we, the whole class, still with the aid of computers and sound- inspiration to a new generation “Guy volunteered to go first, sat at remember that day.” synthesis equipment,” he said. The University of Adelaide’s unique the grand piano, and proceeded to of talented young people who The Dean of the Elder School of “We hope that Guy will continue sing a tune by NSync to his own will realise that ‘nice guys’ really Master of Gastronomy program Music, Professor Charles Bodman to build on the inclinations he has piano playing. We were all amazed— can win!” Rae, said he and many others at already shown and perhaps write his usually brings food lovers from I didn’t even know he could sing, let the university were proud of Guy’s own material. He has all the talents While it is uncertain whether Guy will alone that well. across the globe to South Australia. achievement. to do so and make his success a long- continue with his studies at the Elder “It wasn’t simply the beauty of his “Staff and students of the Elder lasting one.” School of Music now that he has shot voice that touched us all (and it really to national stardom, there’s little School of Music have been following There’s little question that Guy did) but the perceptive way that he doubt that he will always be fondly But now, local student Olivia finals held on the Sunshine Coast She said she had thoroughly “We have world-class produce Guy Sebastian’s remarkable progress thoroughly deserved to win the then explained what was going on through all the different stages of remembered at the university. Stratton is taking Adelaide to in . enjoyed the course so far, after here, and the University of Adelaide Australian Idol competition, with his in the music—the light and shade, the Australian Idol competition—and the world. wanting to do it for the past has a world-class lecturer in combination of personality, unique And who knows, returning to study Fluent in German as well as tension and release, the lyric curve barracking for him,” Professor three years. Barbara Santich. looks (go the ’fro!) and great talent. someday is always an option further The 22-year-old, who has also been English, Olivia began her Master and the form. It was immediately Bodman Rae said. down the track for Guy. a professional model since 1997, of Gastronomy course earlier this “It’s been very demanding and “I have also been impressed with apparent that Guy had an innate “Guy’s undoubted charm shone “It is heartening to see that his is currently in China as Australia’s year after previously studying hotel challenging, but I have loved it,” the international flavour of the understanding of , that through all the stages of the After all, Australian Idol judge and outstanding talent has been entrant in the final of the Miss management courses through Le she said. course, with most students coming special something that allows truly competition, even under the former pop star began recognised, and with such huge World 2003 competition. Cordon Bleu (which also presents “I can see why Adelaide and from overseas. They have quite great performers to bring a song harsh spotlight of ever-present TV his studies in Law at the University media exposure. Guy Sebastian is Earlier this year, she was chosen as the Master of Gastronomy together South Australia were chosen to varying career backgrounds, ages to life. cameras,” Professor Bodman Rae of Adelaide in the 1970s, and later not only an outstanding performer, Australia ahead of 31 with the University of Adelaide) and host this course, because it is the and beliefs, and I have learnt a lot said. graduated in 2001! “Every time I watched him on Idol I he is a very intelligent musician. In other contestants at the national the Swiss Hotel Association. gastronomic gateway to the world. just in my interactions with them.” saw and heard that understanding,” fact, his performances demonstrated “It is great that his talent has Story by David Ellis Dr Carroll said. this,” he said. been identified and that it will be and Ben Osborne

6 7 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003

No comma, less comprehension Chess masters make a move says psychology graduate for national championship It’s easy to overlook commas when it comes to punctuation. International Grandmasters and other top chess players from Australia and overseas will converge on Adelaide this month to compete in the

They aren’t expressive like “I found that commas present an nation’s biggest chess tournament. exclamation marks or question achievable and reliable way of marks, and they don’t bring closure, assisting people’s reading ability. like full stops. Some people argue They simplify the text and are a that commas should be used powerful influence on how sentences sparingly, if at all. are processed. But commas are important and need “In direct contradiction to the school to be utilised, according to University of thought that less is best when of Adelaide PhD graduate Dr Ben punctuation is concerned, I found Grindlay, who looked at how they that strict adherence to a minimal affect reading performance for his style of punctuation (where optional thesis. commas are excluded) does not Dr Grindlay, who graduated earlier necessarily equate to enhanced this year and is now working in reading. the DSTO’s Information Networks “Indeed such a minimalist style Division, completed his PhD through could be viewed as quite limiting, the Department of Psychology under particularly in sophisticated and the supervision of Senior Lecturer Dr aesthetic forms of writing.” PhD graduate Dr Ben Grindlay Two members of the University of Adelaide Chess Club—Associate Peter Delin. Dr Grindlay said while reading Lecturer in Applied Mathematics He found that commas, rather than appears to be a relatively Robin Wedding (left) and Chess being an unnecessary distraction, straightforward task, it is much more “For a sentence to make sense, commas and other punctuation in Club president Andrew Saint, a actually aid reading—and that less involved than most people realise. there has to be a combination of the text they were reading,” he said. student in Chemical Engineering and Science—get into the commas aren’t necessarily better. those three things and the better the “They were able to understand what “For a skilled reader, reading spirit of this month’s national reader, the quicker it all occurs.” they were reading more quickly and “Punctuation is one of the most typically appears to be a cohesive championship. Robin and with less effort. Andrew are among the organisers important reading devices: after and immediate process—you read Punctuation is the main “visible of the summer chess festival. the development of the alphabet, the words on the page and they make feature” which gives visual clues to “For less-skilled readers, punctuation Photo by David Ellis it’s considered as the primary sense,” he said. the reader as to how a sentence is to is still helpful, but just not as be comprehended. For good readers helpful as it is for skilled readers. development in the history of “When you break it down, reading punctuation, and in particular the Less-skilled readers take that little The tournament is part of a chess festival being Adelaide won the right to host the biennial George Howard, President of the SA Chess writing,” he said. is much more than that. You have comma, does make reading more bit longer to comprehend their held in Adelaide during December and January. championship following the ongoing success of Association and President of the Australian “For my thesis I measured people’s to recognise all the words, and then efficient. sentences and so punctuation The festival not only includes the championship the annual University Open Chess Tournament, Chess Federation. reading speed and comprehension to process the interaction between organised by members of the University of has less impact on their ability to as the main event, but also an exhibition “Adelaide is a perfect venue for a chess festival find out how effective punctuation is, the words so a sentence is formed, “What I found, in simple terms, was Adelaide’s Chess Club and with support from the read efficiently.” match that will see of one of the world’s best of this nature, and the top players have been and in particular how effective the and then process any other visible that the more skilled the reader, the chess players blindfolded while playing five SA Chess Association. comma is. features of a sentence. more benefit they drew from having Story by Ben Osborne so keen to take part that many of them are simultaneous games against other players! The championship will be held at the North foregoing lucrative professional games in The 2003/2004 Lidums Adelaide University Terrace Campus in the Eclipse and other Europe just for this event. function rooms in the Union Building. Australian Chess Championship will be held at “Chess has many benefits for the public, the University of Adelaide from December 29 Other chess events will also be held around especially children as it helps to develop their to January 10. Adelaide before, during and after the spatial understanding and works the same With prizes totalling more than $14,000, the championship. part of the brain that is involved in music and tournament has already drawn two Australian These include the blindfold exhibition by mathematics. Chess has also proven to help Grandmasters—Australia’s top chess player Grandmaster Ian Rogers in Rundle Mall, public delay the onset of dementia. Ian Rogers (the first ever Grandmaster in the events at Glenelg as part of the Bay Sports “Not only that, but it’s enormous fun, as the South-East Asian region) and Darryl Johansen Festival, and public lectures to be held at the people of Adelaide will get a chance to see later Mortgage Reducing Specialists —and five International Masters, including South University of Adelaide by Ian Rogers and this month.” Australia’s top player, Mark Chapman. Darryl Johansen. • MIAA member • debt consolidation Grandmaster Ian Rogers has not competed in a “We will have 200 top chess players in the For more information about the summer chess • residential & investment property purchase championship in his home country for the past championship, plus reserves and seniors festival, visit the Adelaide University Chess • re-financing or change of loan six years, and this is the first time in more than competitions, and we’re expecting around 200 Club website: www.unichess.org • budgeting 20 years that Adelaide has hosted the national spectators from the public to see what all the For a free no-obligation consultation contact championships. excitement of competitive chess is about,” said Story by David Ellis Shane on 8177 1334 or 0419 674 136

8 9 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Concern over killer lung disease levels among smokers “More than half a million Australians A new model for are estimated to have moderate to the diagnosis and severe disease and this is expected to management of increase significantly with the aging chronic lung disease population and continuing high rates of smoking. as a result of smoking “Obviously, encouraging smoking is needed for general cessation among patients is the first practitioners, according step to reduce the incidence to a University of of COPD. Adelaide academic. “However, if COPD is diagnosed, appropriate drug therapy and Professor Justin Beilby, Head of the pulmonary rehabilitation can university’s Department of General significantly improve patient quality Practice, was responding to recent of life and future management of the figures showing a significant under- condition,” he said. diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) among sufferers’ lives and lead to death. effective way to confirm the presence smokers and ex-smokers. Professor Beilby said the results of airflow limitation.” The Australian Lung Foundation in More information about were concerning. Professor Beilby said the seriousness partnership with the Department Chronic Obstructive of COPD and the need for better of General Practice has found “Greater awareness of COPD is Pulmonary Disease can be diagnosis and management should that one in four smokers and ex- needed in general practice,” he said. found at the Australian Lung not be underestimated. smokers suffer from early COPD, “One of the biggest challenges will Foundation website: raising concerns about the under- be to create a model where GPs can “In Australia, COPD is the fourth www.alf.org.au reporting of this disease, which can efficiently use spirometry testing leading cause of death in men and significantly affect the quality of [a lung function test]—the only sixth in women,” he said. World-class drug and alcohol research centre opens $11 million boost for medical research “This is a very exciting development which will The University of Adelaide has again received major national recognition Adelaide is to become the leading site for the coordination make Adelaide a national and international focus of drug and alcohol research and training in the Asia-Pacific. in the field,” Ms Stevens said. for the quality of its research, this time for medical science and dentistry. “The new centre is the first in Australia to develop culturally specific programs that can be adapted for overseas. They are already working Thirty-one new grants have been • $682,500 over three years for “This latest announcement is an because they aim to improve our A new World Health Organization (WHO) in research, health care delivery and policy in partnership with service providers from awarded to the university by a major national survey of adult extremely positive one for the understanding of health and disease, Collaborating Centre for Research in Treatment development. He has acted as a consultant to Indonesia, Thailand and China to develop new of Drug and Alcohol Problems has been opened the WHO and the United Nations Drug Control programs. the National Health and Medical oral health (Dental Statistics & University of Adelaide and the wider and the ways in which disease can be at the University of Adelaide. Program. Research Council (NHMRC), with Research Unit) community,” said the Deputy Vice- treated or prevented. “Having this facility in Adelaide means we’ll be funding in excess of $11 million. Chancellor (Research), Professor The WHO Centre is a joint effort between the The Chairperson of the National Expert a drawcard for recruiting and retaining the best • $498,250 over three years for “Adelaide already has a strong Edwina Cornish. University of Adelaide and South Australia’s Committee on Illicit Drugs, Associate Professor drug and alcohol workers, as well as exporting This includes major research a study into stem cell function reputation for research and Drug and Alcohol Services Council (DASC). Ali is an expert on the health implications of our knowledge overseas. projects that have the potential to (School of Molecular & Biomedical When added to the recent innovation in the medical, dental and cannabis use and has been extensively involved make a significant impact on the Science) The Director of the new WHO Collaborating “It also means more effective and timely announcement of $10.7 million in biomedical fields, and that reputation in the implementation and management future health and wellbeing of the Centre is Associate Professor Robert Ali, who of needle exchange programs and the services for those dealing with a substance • $556,750 over three years for funding from the Australian Research will continue to grow with this new community, as well as Fellowships is also Director of Clinical Policy and Research establishment of state-wide public and private abuse problem.” research into systematic asthma Council, “Adelaide continues to show funding,” Professor Cornish said. and Career Development grants for DASC. methadone programs. care (Department of General that it is widely recognised as a Alcohol and drug workers and their clients The projects funded in the latest awarded to key staff. Practice) national leader in quality research”. Associate Professor Ali has been involved in The launch of the new WHO Collaborating would benefit from research trials and the NHMRC round have been awarded to numerous national and international forums on Centre was conducted by South Australian implementation of advances in treatment, Ms The total NHMRC funding announced • $455,250 over three years to study “Importantly, the projects funded researchers in the Faculty of Health substance use and has an extensive background Health Minister Lea Stevens. Stevens said. is $11,033,625 over three years. factors involved in prostate cancer from the NHMRC can have a direct Sciences and the Faculty of Sciences, Among the projects funded are: (Department of Medicine) impact on many people’s lives and their research partners.

10 11 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Wheat crop has added health benefits

Top teachers recognised Wheat, a major Australian crop, may benefit our health even more with awards for excellence when supplemented with selenium. “Selenium is an essential because of insoluble compounds micronutrient for human and animal forming between it and other soil This year’s Stephen Cole the Elder Prizes for Excellence in health with antioxidant, anti-viral and components. Teaching have gone to two academics in diverse fields. anti-cancer effects,” said Graham “Reduction in cancer prevention Lyons, a PhD student from the requires a supra-nutritional selenium University of Adelaide’s School of intake, but in some regions selenium Agriculture and Wine. is declining in the food chain, and Dr Samer Akkach is a Senior Lecturer with the Mr Lyons is investigating the new strategies are required to School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture importance of selenium in increase its intake,” said Mr Lyons. and Urban Design, and is also the Founding plant growth and development, To improve accumulation of selenium Director of the Centre for Asian and Middle and methods of increasing its in plants, use of high selenium Eastern Architecture. concentration in wheat grain. fertilisers, or a plant breeding Dr Anna Chur-Hansen is a Senior Lecturer in the Levels of soil selenium vary in approach could be utilised. Although Department of Psychiatry at the Royal Adelaide distribution and availability to plants application of fertiliser has been Hospital. on a world-wide scale. Selenium- shown to improve soil selenium deficient soils are widespread in levels, breeding a high selenium g Dr Sammer Akkach Siberia and north-east to south wheat will facilitate retention of this A talented artist and designer, Dr Akkach fell central China, and in New Zealand. trait, generation after generation. into studying architecture by virtue of his Prior to selenium fertilisation of This self-sustainable approach is school marks in native Damascus, Syria. His crops from 1984, soils in Finland preferable to the continual purchase love for teaching and assisting students master were also deficient. of selenium-containing fertilisers. the subject later took precedence over private The overall benefits for consumers Dr Anna Chur-Hansen In Australia, areas at risk of selenium practice and he now says he would not have it and Dr Samer Akkach deficiency include the east coastal in Australia and overseas were any other way. represent two of the regions of Queensland and New potentially great, Mr Lyons said. Although fully recovered from his first very best among the South Wales, south west coast of University of Adelaide’s “Increasing the selenium content “frightening” encounter in a packed lecture many fine academic , Tasmania, South of wheat represents a food systems theatre and “that awful dry-mouth sensation”, teaching staff Australia’s Mount Lofty Ranges and approach that would increase Photo by he has never forgotten the experience of some Kangaroo Island. population intake, with consequent Howard Salkow 10 years ago. In regions where total soil selenium likely improvement in public health “It was a daunting feeling and one you have to levels appear adequate, selenium and health cost savings.” experience to fully understand. But it stood me “The design draws on the tension between Additionally, she is currently consolidating her may be unavailable to plants Story by Dr Stephanie Agius PhD student Graham Lyons inspects a selenium-bearing wheat crop in good stead and over the past 10 years I have longing and belonging and the emerging identity clinical skills with a placement at the university’s improved the content, found new ways to make in the search for meaning. The design and its Counselling Centre. Thus, teaching is the basis lectures enjoyable and ensured accessibility to theme were the focus of an honours research of her academic role, her research and her my students,” he said. project, several model-making and graphic professional practice. communication exercises, and has continued to Such is his popularity, a final lecture once ended “I have never forgotten what it’s like to be a Prominent Australian winemaker honoured attract students’ attention,” he said. in resounding applause from the class. student and as a lecturer I try put myself in their Mr Bowen said Mr Laffer’s energies and shoes and do my best to meet their needs,” Dr “I strive for excellence and try to maintain the expertise had also been utilised by many g Dr Anna Chur-Hansen Chur-Hansen said. An oenologist who has played a major role in the development of highest standard. wine industry groups including research Dr Chur-Hansen is a psychologist who has “It is easy to forget how daunting it is to be at Australia’s burgeoning wine industry is the winner of the 2003 Award “But more importantly, I encourage the students organisations, industry representation groups worked in the university’s Department of university, and I am cognizant that students need to engage themselves. I advise the first-year of Merit from the Roseworthy Old Collegians’ Association (ROCA). and government advisory groups. Psychiatry since 1987, after beginning her support and a friendly and approachable face. students that innocence is valuable as is their teaching career two years earlier in the It is entirely possible to feel anonymous and At all times his focus has been on achieving first expression. They respect this and it practical outcomes to benefit the wine industry. Department of Psychology, where she was a isolated at an institution like this, and that has a Philip Laffer was presented with his award by “He recognised the importance of the market encourages them to challenge me,” said Dr demonstrator for practical classes. negative impact on learning, in my view. ROCA president Wilf Bowen at the association’s chain sooner than most and has devoted “Phil is a significant face for the Australian Akkach, who firmly believes there is no such “Besides making myself accessible, I subscribe annual dinner last month. substantial time into the coordination of grape wine industry at home and abroad,” Mr Bowen thing as a dumb question. Interested in seeing things from multiple said, “and in 2002 he was named Australia’s perspectives, Dr Chur-Hansen has made to formative assessment when it comes to Mr Laffer, the chief winemaker with the Orlando- production and market practices which meet Before turning to full-time academia, Dr Akkach Winemaker of the Year. teaching part of her research. In fact the title marking papers. I aim to talk to students on a Wyndham group, graduated from Roseworthy in consumer expectation. practiced as an architect in Syria, Saudi Arabia, of her PhD thesis was “An investigation of the one-to-one basis about their work, and provide 1961 with a Diploma of Agriculture then studied “Phil has shuttled between Australia and North “His outstanding achievements reflect the high and Adelaide. In 1995 he began work on English language proficiency and academic and them with guidance about how they might Oenology, graduating in 1963. America, Japan and Europe, enhancing and standard maintained over the years by fellow the design and construction of his residence. clinical performance of University of Adelaide improve. Students need to understand why alumni who have been awarded ROCA’s highest “Phil Laffer’s contribution has impacted across expanding Australia’s wine export drive. “In this project I attempted to explore the limits medical school undergraduates”, and she has they received a certain mark and where their honour.” the whole wine industry—from vineyard practices “One of the major results of this is that the of expressing one’s own cultural identity in a published a number of papers in the area of strengths and weaknesses lie,” she said. and wine making procedures to quality standards, Jacob’s Creek range is the biggest selling Philip’s father, Len Laffer, (BAgSc 1934) was the foreign context. medical education. Story by Howard Salkow quality control and marketing,” Mr Bowen said. Australian wine label in the world.” recipient of the ROCA Award of Merit in 1976.

12 13 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Stem cell researcher wins Young Hot fl owers – Investigator of the Year sexy rewards A young researcher whose work may eventually help to save lives of people Floral temperatures are heating with fatal blood disorders—such as up beetles in more ways than one leukemia—has become the 2003 according to new research at the Young Investigator of the Year. University of Adelaide.

Jonathon Hutton from the Child Health Research Professor Roger Seymour, from the Heat generated by these arum lilies Institute is the winner of this year’s Young School of Earth & Environmental causes odiferous compounds to Investigator Award. Sciences, has investigated how be released into the air attracting The award is a joint initiative of the Women’s & raised fl oral temperatures in arum insect pollinators, but there has Children’s Hospital and the University of Adelaide’s lilies not only attracts beetles been no explanation why heating Faculty of Health Sciences. It recognises the best into the fl oral chamber but also continues while the insect remains in science and science communication among enables a frenzied period of inside the lily overnight, instead of young researchers studying women’s, children’s or feeding and mating. during the attraction period alone. young people’s health. The lily creates a warm “Many insects require a raised body Jonathan’s work has earned him fi rst prize of Jonathon Hutton microclimate for the beetles that temperature for activity which they speaking at the facilitates their activity at what $1000 plus the BioInnovation SA Conference Prize YIA fi nal achieve by metabolically producing is believed to be a fraction of the of $1500. Photo by their own heat. David Ellis energy cost that would be required His research looks at a novel way of producing outside of the fl ower. “Partly because insects are small, stem cells, by using blood from umbilical cords. increases in metabolic rate can be Professor Seymour’s research “Blood from umbilical cords is an excellent source Jonathan said his participation in the Young The runners up for this year’s award were John enormous, for example, it increases into this area has resulted in up to 16-fold in terrestrially active of blood stem cells, which can be used in life- Investigator Award, which involved rigorous Bromfi eld and Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri, both yet another of his papers being beetles.” saving transplantation for small children with judging of the quality of his science plus scrutiny from the University of Adelaide’s Department of published in the journal Nature. leukemia or inherited diseases,” Jonathan said. by a panel of media judges, had been “very Obstetrics & Gynaecology. A warm fl oral chamber may be “Self-heating fl owers occur exciting”. considered an energy reward for His research has found that a special family of in several diverse families of The 2003 Young Investigator Award is insect pollinators, allowing feeding proteins is produced by these cord blood stem “It’s a great experience [for the fi nalists] to present primitive fl owering plants in cells, which helps the stem cells to grow in culture. our work in this context,” he said, referring to the sponsored by: WCH Foundation (silver and mating at a reduced energy sponsor), University of Adelaide, Women’s which female parts are pollinated This means that cord blood stem cells could fi nal stage: the presentation of the fi nalists’ work to cost to the insect, he said. and Children’s Hospital, BioInnovation SA fi rst after which pollen is shed,” Beetles get to work inside the hot and friendly environment of an arum lily eventually be harvested in large quantities in a the public and the media judges. and Collison & Co (bronze sponsors), Child Professor Seymour said. Story by Dr Stephanie Agius Photo courtesy of Professor Roger Seymour laboratory environment. “It’s important to be able to communicate our Health Research Institute, Bone Growth “This research will increase our understanding research to the general public. I think it’s very Foundation and Invitrogen life technologies of blood cell production and is important for important to communicate it effectively so that (sponsors), and Channel 9 (media sponsor). development of therapies using cord blood,” people understand what our science is all about www.health.adelaide.edu.au/yia2003/ PUBLIC FORUM he said. and how it can potentially impact on their lives.” 6:00pm – 7:30pm, Monday 8 December Take home an adventure! Stamford Plaza, 150 North Terrace Sponsored by Looking for an early present before Christmas?

The Adelaidean has three copies New lift to offer of the latest book by Australian adventurer Ben Kozel to give away. Five Months In A Leaky Boat is the better access second book by Kozel (a Science THE PROGRAM Getting To Know Our Neighbours graduate from the University of A new external lift will be The lift car and shaft will be Adelaide), detailing his trek down the constructed next year, to improve glazed, allowing views of the Leaders of major community organisations in Australia and Indonesia Yenisey River to the Arctic Ocean. access between the upper and campus. discuss opportunities and challenges for strengthening interaction A thrilling and fascinating read and understanding. Speakers include the Dunstan Fellows for 2003, lower levels of the North Terrace Construction is expected to begin about lands rarely seen by Western Professor Julian Disney AO, University of , Sharan eyes, Five Months In A Leaky Boat Campus. early in 2004, and will take about Burrow, President ACTU, Don Henry, Executive Director, Australian is published by Pan Macmillan and The lift will be located on the fi ve months to complete. Conservation Foundation and Louise Sylvan, Former Chief Executive retails for $30. eastern side of the Plaza Building, Offi cer, Australian Consumers Association. as a freestanding structure with For more information call To win one of three free copies, be among the fi rst to callAdelaidean bridges across to the Plaza and Trevor Dunne from Campus Cost: $10. Free for concession card holders. Phone Josie Development on (08) 8303 4673. Bookings essential due to limited seating. on 8303 3364 editor David Ellis on (08) 8303 3173 University Club buildings. and leave your name and details.

14 15 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003

Love of sport vaults Jennifer Adelaide link brings benefits to success to Indonesian schools

An Adelaide student is already Children in Indonesia are gaining from a program that aims making a name for herself as a to improve school management and basic education. global achiever.

Twenty-year-old Commerce and “The experience will be invaluable Law student Jennifer Lovell has and I’m sure it will stand me in added another major achievement good stead in my career.” to an already impressive resume Funded by a loan from the Asian Development CA Global Achiever winners are by being named South Australian Bank to the Government of Indonesia, the selected on a combination of CA Global Achiever by the Institute project, known as the Decentralized Basic academic results, extra curricular of Chartered Accountants in Education Project (DBEP), aims to improve poor activities and two rounds of Australia (ICAA). children’s access to quality basic education. interviews, with judges from the One of those playing a major role in the Ms Lovell, who is in the final year ICAA and participating chartered implementation of the project has been of her Commerce degree and accounting organisations. in second year Law, will receive Associate Professor Bob Cannon, former two weeks paid work experience A talented sportswoman, Ms Lovell Director of the University of Adelaide’s Advisory with UK-based BDO Chartered excelled as a pole-vaulter while at Centre for University Education (now the Accountants and Advisers, and will Seymour College. In 1998, she Learning & Teaching Development Unit) and meet with international chartered was the Australian Under-16 record Visiting Associate Professor in International holder and the following year won accountants to experience life as Commerce/Law student Jennifer Lovell Education. selection to the Australian Under- a leading business adviser. She is Photo by Howard Salkow Dr Cannon is the Australian Team Leader for expected to leave in February for 18 athletics team. She finished consulting services being delivered by IDP the UK. ninth in the final of the World Youth awarded an Australian Sports Medal and expand my horizons. It is Education Australia and associated firms to the Games in 1999. “This is not only a tremendous for her contribution and excellence an excellent way to grow up and DBEP scheme. to athletics. has contributed to my disciplined honour, but I am also indebted to In 1998-2000 she was a South DBEP is regarded as a ‘flagship’ project by the outlook on life,” she said. the ICAA for affording such an Australian Sports Institute “My love for sport provided an government, Dr Cannon said. opportunity,” Ms Lovell said. scholarship holder and in 2000 was ideal platform from which to grow Story by Howard Salkow The project supports poor schools and communities in the Provinces of Bali, and in Nusa Tengarra Barat (NTB) of which the largest islands are Lombok and Sumbawa. “There is a strong possibility that DBEP will be More than 3100 state, Islamic and private Some of the warmth and colour in an Islamic primary extended into other poor areas and intensified primary and junior secondary schools are school in Mataram, Lombok, on a Friday morning, “when children come to school decked out in their best attire”, in Bali and NTB to permit the participation of expected to have participated in DBEP by the says Associate Professor Bob Cannon News in Brief more poor schools, some of which have emerged time all phases of the project are completed. as a direct flow-on effect of the Bali bombings Dr Cannon said that to be able to work on such tragedy,” Dr Cannon said. a large and nationally significant project was “Another reward is to simply visit schools and Human rights internships The human rights internships issues, the political dynamics of University of Adelaide students this Dr Cannon, who is based in the Ministry of a wonderful late-career opportunity that has mix with the children and teachers who are offer an amazing, rewarding and the negotiating environment and year. The Law School’s Internship National Education in Jakarta, leads a team of permitted the use of all his previous learning always overwhelming in the genuine warmth of challenging experience for Adelaide’s the opportunities and challenges Program continues to grow, and The AFUW is a not-for-profit 120 Indonesian consultants and support staff, and experience across education sectors their welcome. As a teacher, I’m often alarmed law students. presented to businesses by the next year seven law students will organisation that raises money by most of whom are located in eight Districts in in Indonesia: administration, cross-cultural by the cheering and disruption to classes that globalised economy. hiring graduation gowns and hoods. usually accompanies a school visit. However, it’s undertake human rights internships Trade course info evening Bali and NTB. communication and quality improvement The course is being offered by the The money raised goes back into a marvellous antidote to the stresses of living in both nationally and internationally. These field workers help school staff and local processes. It has also presented challenges and An information session about University’s Institute for International education in the form of grants to Jakarta with its congestion, pollution and ever- communities to prepare a School Development significant professional rewards. Elise Edson is heading to the United the University of Adelaide’s Business, Economics and Law. To support talented students. present threat of terrorist attack.” Plan, which helps to determine priorities “One of these rewards is witnessing first Nations High Commission for new Professional Certificate in reserve a place at the information The majority of this year’s awards and needs in areas such as rehabilitation of hand the very positive changes in energy and Dr Cannon will return to Adelaide next year Refugees (UNHCR) in Nepal, Yasmine International Trade will be held at session, phone (08) 8303 6944. include support for postgraduate buildings and infrastructure, and development commitment among the Indonesian professional when the first phase of his inputs to DBEP Ahmed and Hannah Tonkin are going 5.15pm on Monday, December 8. students undertaking degrees by of scholarships to support the poorest children. classes now released from the stifling top-down comes to an end. He plans to return to to the International Criminal Tribunal To be launched in March next AFUW grants benefit students research and coursework in a The second part of their work is to help schools direction and controls that typified the ‘New Indonesia at regular intervals over the coming in the Hague, Mary Hackett-Jones year, the Professional Certificate The Australian Federation of range of fields, with other awards to implement their plans and to monitor Order’ regime of former President Suharto,” four years to provide further leadership and and Sarah Attar are both going to will provide students with a University Women – SA Inc. Trust for talented undergrad students in progress and outcomes. he said. supervision to the project. UNHCR in Cairo, and Jaymie-Louise practical understanding of current Fund has awarded bursaries and Dentistry and Maths & Computer MacIntyre to UNHCR in . international trade and investment grants totalling more than $23,000 to Science.

16 17 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003

Alumni News

New alumni director New York City launch for Thirty years on, the mystery solved to build relationships US alumni network! Some secrets are never revealed, but the mystery of how an FJ Holden The inaugural gathering of University of became suspended underneath the Adelaide alumni and friends based in the University Footbridge is finally out after United States of America was held last month in New York City. more than 30 years. Graduates from 1972 and 1973 “Under cover of the early hours gathered last month at the Adelaide of one Friday morning, a group of Festival Centre to rekindle volunteers pushed the FJ Holden friendships and to catch up on 30 under the bridge next to the water years since graduating from the on the southern bank of the Torrens,” University of Adelaide. David told the Adelaidean after Professor Fred McDougall provided the reunion. the welcoming address on behalf “The car was lifted using beams of the Vice-Chancellor, drawing and lifting gear attached to a small comparisons between the university hand-operated crane located on the back in the early 1970s and today, footbridge. and highlighting some of the recent John Brady and Cathie Maywald Ken Allen and Professor James McWha “The crane, with car attached, was achievements of staff and students. then pushed out to the centre of the The event was hosted by Vice- and friends and I look forward A powerpoint presentation, “The bridge. The car was firmly secured Chancellor Professor James to future events in the region,” Moon, the Mini and the Mod Squad”, to the bridge using a large chain. McWha and the Australian Professor McWha said after provided a visual recollection of Anne Gribbin is excited and passionate “The crane and volunteers then Consul-General in New York, attending the reception. student life at the University of quickly disappeared into the night about her new job. the Honourable Kenneth Allen, Adelaide from 1969-73. Following and were never found.” an Economics graduate of the “The success of this inaugural the presentation, David Gray (BE She started as Director, Alumni, “I see my role as an integrated one University of Adelaide. gathering is encouraging for the 1972) entertained graduates and The student prank wasn’t the only Community Relations and which has the scope to build on the potential of establishing a formal guests by revealing the 30-year secret talking point at the reunion, with Held at the Australian Consulate, Don’t try this at home: the FJ Holden suspended from the University Footbridge Development last month and, after existing relationships and goodwill alumni chapter in the USA.” this highly successful event of how an FJ Holden was suspended many graduates having plenty to Photo reproduced from a copy of Hysteresis 1971, the publication of the fighting off a serious bout of hay the university has built up, and under the University Footbridge. catch up on. brought together graduates and For more information about this Adelaide University Engineering Society fever in her first week in Adelaide, also to develop new partnerships friends as well as representatives event, or other activities held by is ready to meet the demands her with individuals, business and the from the university’s study the University of Adelaide alumni complex and important role brings. community,” she said. Graduates returning to Adelaide for Development, and the first woman abroad programs. network in the United States, the reunion included Carolyn Wild to graduate in Australia as an “I’m really looking forward to “To do that I will firstly have to listen “I am greatly encouraged by the please email Benjamin Leske: Left: David Gray (BE 1972) and Cheryl Gray (BE Hons 1973) who travelled from oenologist, prominent winemaker being part of, and contributing to, a to and observe the culture, traditions enthusiasm of our graduates [email protected] enjoying the live entertainment Ottawa, Canada, Roger Jeffery (BSc Pamela Dunsford. university community which has a and the Adelaide way of doing things. 1972, BE 1973) from , Helen special uniqueness,” she said. It’s also vital to understand the Below: Deborah Marlin (winner of the pearl A reunion booklet prepared for pendant donated by Grahams Jewellers), Bannister (BA Hons 1973) from the event included biographies of “The University of Adelaide is needs of the university, and also the Rosemary Osman (BSc Hons 1973), and , Ruth Medd (BSc 1971) from 1972 and 1973 graduates including grounded in tradition, heritage and needs and expectations of the entire Ruth Medd (BSc 1971) New South Wales, Luise Dunstan those who were not able to attend excellence in a variety of disciplines, university community.” (BSc 1973) from Queensland and on the evening. The biographies yet it uses such qualities to challenge Outside of her professional career, Neil Lawson (BEc 1972) also from highlight professional and personal existing ideas and to progress.” Ms Gribbin has interests in health Queensland, who was the winner achievements and their memories of and fitness, modern art, most types Ms Gribbin has a background of a men’s Seiko Watch generously university days. in senior management roles in of music, motor sports and following donated by Grahams Jewellers. in the AFL. university, corporate and not-for- This era produced many prominent profit organisations throughout “I’m an active person and I think that graduates including NASA astronaut The 30 Year Reunion for Australia. is reflected in the way I do my job,” Dr Andy Thomas, international law graduates of 1974 will be held in September 2004. For further Her last position was based in she said. “I intend very much to expert Professor James Crawford, information on the university’s be active both within the university Senator Nick Bolkus, several Rockhampton as Chief Executive of Reunion Program please community and also the broader current State Ministers including the Central Queensland Foundation, contact Kim McBride on community.” and she has also worked for the the Hon. Paul Holloway, Minister +61 8 8303 3196 or email: Smorgon Family, the Alfred Hospital Story by Ben Osborne for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries [email protected] and the St James Ethics Centre. and Minister for Mineral Resources

18 19 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 11 December 2003

Sport Mitchell’s study going swimmingly Mitchell Bacon’s life is much like the swimming event he specialises in: a medley.

Students get the Blues

Mitchell Bacon headlines a group of student athletes recently recognised in the latest round of Adelaide University Sports Association honours, as one of six athletes to receive a Don Stranks and Bob Heddle Scholarship. The other recipients were: Richard McGeachy (Agricultural Science) – rifl e shooting Brad Fitzgerald The State’s top-ranked male (Environmental Science) – hockey swimmer and Adelaide student, Mitchell Bacon James Loechel Photo by Ben Osborne (Commerce and Law) – football Adrian Oest An Australian squad member and the top-ranked Mitchell spends approximately 30 hours a week (Mechatronic Engineering) – rowing male swimmer in the State, Mitchell has to juggle training, around which he fi ts in his study and part- Adelaide Boylan (International Studies and Law) – rowing his time between studying at the University of time job with a local engineering fi rm. Adelaide, an intensive swimming regime and his Oest also received one of fi ve prestigious His next major competition will be the Olympic University Blues – given for sporting prowess part-time job. trials in March, at which he will compete in the at a national level or beyond – which were The 20-year-old is partway through completing his 200m and 400m individual medley in a bid to make awarded last month. Bachelor of Environmental Science, and says that the Australian team that will compete in Athens. The other Blues recipients were: his study comes fi rst. “You need to fi nish in the top two of an event at Steven Perry “I am really enjoying my study and while swimming trials to be selected in the team, so if I’m good (Science) – rowing is important to me now, I know that studying at enough to do that then the Olympics will be my David Gooding (Spatial Information Science) – gymnastics Adelaide will set me up for the rest of my life,” main focus in 2004,” he said. he said. Sion Harman “And if I don’t, then I will be able to throw myself (Health Sciences) – taekwondo “I’m hoping to fi nish off my degree in a couple of into my study—either way, I’ll be active!” Andrew Morris years’ time and then go on to do Honours and even (Medicine) – waterskiing a PhD in Environmental Science.” Story by Ben Osborne

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