What's Happened to Our Native Species?

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AdelaideanNEWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE Volume 12 • Number 5 • June 2003 inside this issue What’s happened to our PAGE 5 Family loans name to world-class facility native species?

PAGE 8 Students to A new study highlights benefit from library appeal the dramatic changes to plant and wildlife species in Adelaide PAGE 10 New bat’s name a over almost 170 years. bright inspiration

PAGE 15 New books The study is the first of its kind to by Adelaide’s Friendly Poets detail the changes to our urban ecosystem by taking an historical view of Adelaide. Catherine Tait, an Honours student in the University of Adelaide’s School of PAGE 4 Online Masters a giant Earth and Environmental Sciences, of innovation has examined the changes in plant Engineer first non-US and animal species since Adelaide’s student to win award founding in 1836. PAGE 6 Tougher testing urged for Using more than 200 studies, alternative medicines checklists and reports documenting the flora and fauna of the Adelaide PAGE 7 Ash Wednesday study calls for 1500 Australians region since 1836, Ms Tait has discovered which plant and animal PAGE 9 South Africa study puts species have arrived, which information first have been lost, and when they disappeared. She is also trying The glossy black cockatoo is PAGE 12 How do you stop the among those species lost to Adelaide self sabotage? to discover the reasons for these changes, and chart the impact that PAGE 13 Students face $70,000 introduced species have made on animal species in Adelaide, but there species decreased from 395 to 352. challenge Adelaide’s ecological environment. has been an overall increase in the While 43 native species have been total number of species,” Ms Tait lost, 31 introduced animals are PAGE 16 Twin scholarship success Her research has produced some startling results about the changing said. present today. face of our urban habitat. This increase was due largely to the Of the mammals, 50% of the native She found that the Adelaide area high number of “alien” plant and species recorded in Adelaide in 1836 —the region bound by Gawler River animal species introduced, while are no longer found (a decrease from in the north, Mount Lofty in the east the overall number of native plant 40 to 20 species), while 12 mammal and Sellicks Beach in the south—has and animal species has decreased, species have been introduced (nine actually increased in species richness she said. of these are still present today). The University of Adelaide (that is, the number of plant and Overall, 132 species have become “Most of the mammals were gone is Australia’s third oldest university and is known animal species) since Adelaide was extinct from the Adelaide area since by 1909, under pressure from land internationally for excellence founded. 1836, while 648 species have been clearance and the introduced species, in research and teaching. “Since Governor Hindmarsh landed, successfully introduced (that is, they of which most arrived here by the there has been a significant drop are still in the area today). 1870s,” Ms Tait said. www.adelaide.edu.au in the number of native plant and The total number of native animal continued on page 11 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

McWha’s Words

Growth with Excellence

The recent forum hosted by the Chancellor • Growth with excellence in education; During my nine-month tenure, we have made and myself in Bonython Hall was a great • Student focus, and; numerous strides. We have learned how opportunity yet again to connect with the • Scale and focus in research. to reinforce our strengths and build on our university as a whole. I would like to thank all You will be hearing more on each of these weaknesses. We have also shown that we who attended, and also thank the students and over the course of the year, and we will be have a “can-do” attitude and that nothing is staff for their many thoughtful questions. encouraging discussion on what they mean to impossible. For the benefit of those who were unable to the university and our future. Thanks to your commitment and passion for attend, and for the majority of Adelaidean It is important to recognise that while the this university, we will be able to explore the readers who are outside the university, I will use university wants to grow, we will only do so opportunities and meet our ultimate goal of this opportunity to highlight some of the key with excellence; that while we are seeking new Growth with Excellence. points discussed at the forum. opportunities in education and research, we will You will be hearing more from me as we The most important is our immediate do so with quality outcomes in mind—for the move ahead and I cannot stress enough the direction and focus. Thanks to the efforts and university, for students, for our partners and the importance of your input as we shape the future commitment of a great many people, we have community. of this fine university. now obtained invaluable data from surveys, The AUQA report identified that previous focus groups, the Australian Universities attempts at strategic planning were poor; Quality Agency (AUQA) report, and from the that we’ve had too many priorities along with community at large. inadequate monitoring and evaluation. This This feedback has provided us with enough time, and with your input, we will obtain the information to concentrate on three clear necessary understanding to achieve our JAMES A. McWHA objectives. They are: desired outcomes. Vice-Chancellor

Adelaidean Editor: David Ellis Writers: Uni’s finances on track Ben Osborne, Howard Salkow, David Ellis Design and Layout: Chris Tonkin The University of Adelaide ended the 2002 Contributors: Rosslyn Cox, Helen Simpson, Kim McBride, financial year on a sound footing showing an Ian Doyle, Lauran Huefner Printed by: operating surplus of $12.4 million, according Lane Print Group Distribution: to audited figures released last month. Lane Print Group Passing Out Distribution Co. Advertising: In announcing details of the cognisant of the hard work that $1m from the Graduate School KRL Media university’s 2002 financial lies ahead to sustain this position. of Business, Professional and Tel: +61 8 8231 5433 Fax: +61 8 8212 1238 performance, Vice-Chancellor “This turnaround would not Continuing Education and other Email: [email protected] Professor James McWha said the have been possible without the programs; and additional teaching- university’s net assets grew by related grants of $3.8m. Coming Events: incredible commitment and hard Please send all coming events to the editor $58m to $618m, a 10.4% growth. at the address below. There is no charge work of all staff. This result is “In the area of research, there for coming events, but they must be “In addition we significantly testament to their efforts over the was an $8.2 million increase in university related. reduced our current liabilities last past year,” he said. revenue. This consisted primarily Deadline for next issue: Thursday, June 19 year by paying out a $20m loan, Professor McWha attributed the of an increase of $3.8m in national Room G07 Mitchell Building, leaving us debt free,” Professor positive turnaround to a number competitive grants and industry South Australia, 5005. McWha said. of factors. grants of $4.7m.” Tel: +61 8 8303 5174 Fax: +61 8 8303 4838 “As with all universities, part of the “In the area of teaching and Professor McWha said another Email: [email protected] surplus relates to pre-committed learning, there was a $12m contributing factor was the $6m www.adelaide.edu.au/pr/publications/ funds, such as capital funds. reduction in costs from staff Adelaidean/ increase in revenue. This However, this is still a sound result. reductions and other staff-related Material may be reproduced without comprised a rise of $6.4m in permission but acknowledgement must be “I am encouraged by the positive international student fee income; savings. given to the Adelaidean. Story by Howard Salkow Registered by Australia Post turnaround, but at the same time, additional non-award courses of No 565001/00046

2 3 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 More Hawker scholars for Adelaide

Two University of Adelaide students are among the latest to receive the prestigious Charles Hawker Scholarships for study in Australia.

Teegan Waples and Christian Christian, a former top student at Winterfield were among five talented Trinity College in Gawler, is studying students from around the nation for a Bachelor of Engineering to be awarded the scholarships for (Mechatronics) and Bachelor of 2003. Arts (Politics) and is in residence Both Teegan and Christian are at St Mark’s College. enrolled at the University of Adelaide. He completed his secondary studies Teegan was educated at the Faith in 2002 and achieved a merit (20/20) Lutheran Secondary School in in physics and an overall Tertiary Tanunda and at Adelaide TAFE. Entrance Rank of 99.35. She is now studying for a Bachelor of Agriculture and is the first Hawker Scholar in residence at the “The Charles Hawker Scholars Christian Winterfield and Teegan Waples (centre) were presented with their Roseworthy Campus. scholarship certificates by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Alexander Downer, at St Hawker Scholarship Mark’s College recently. Also present was Hawker Trustee Mr Andrew Hawker (left). Image She completed her secondary is one of the most edited by Chris Tonkin. education in 2001 with a Tertiary important in Entrance Rank of 93.6. Teegan playing various instruments including Since 1991, the Hawker Trustees deferred her university entrance Australia.” tenor horn, and now percussion for have awarded more than $1.8 million and enrolled in and completed a the Barossa Junior Brass band, and to 39 young Australians, including has been awarded College Blues for a significant number from regional Certificate 3 in Technical Production Christian was awarded the Trinity music. He was one of six students areas. This year’s five successful at TAFE in 2002. College David Strange Memorial to represent Australia at last year’s Teegan excelled academically Award for the most outstanding candidates were chosen from a London International Youth Science throughout her secondary education. student at the College in 2002. His strong field of 140 applicants from Forum. As School Captain at Faith, she had academic achievements have been Australia and overseas. to juggle her responsibilities in that recognised by a significant number Described as “Australia’s Rhodes”, “The Charles Hawker Scholarship position with her academic work. of school-based, state and national the Charles Hawker Scholarship is one of the most important in perpetuates the memory of scholar, Teegan has been involved with the awards and prizes, including repeated Australia. I commend the Trustees soldier, pastoralist and statesman United Nations Youth Association, dux of several subjects and national for the contribution the scholarship Charles Allan Seymour Hawker. the Youth Parliament and was the Mathematics and Science prizes. has already made and will continue to local regional winner of the Lions During his time at Trinity College, Valued up to $60,000 over four make to [the] education of a number Youth of the Year in 2001. She is an Christian demonstrated excellent years, the Hawker Scholarships are of outstanding young Australians,” Oliphant Science Awards prizewinner leadership skills and held a number the most generous privately funded said the Minister for Foreign Affairs, and represented her school in public of senior house and team sport scholarships available to Year 12 and the Hon. Alexander Downer MP. Mr speaking, choir work and fund positions. He participated widely in undergraduate students in Australia. Downer presented the scholarship raising committee. Teegan also has the academic and cultural life of the Selection is based on personal certificates to the students at a an interest in theatre. College. He has a passion for music, qualities as well as academic ability. ceremony at St Mark’s College.

2 3 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

Camera donation Online Masters degree makes a difference a giant of innovation A new online Masters degree program offered through the University of Adelaide has received a national award for innovation and excellence.

The Master of Mathematical graduates of the course to access From left: Kevin Bouckley, Sciences run by the Cooperative the highest level of expertise Canon Business Research Centre for Sensor Signal available in the field of signal Development and Information Processing processing,” Professor Cuthbertson Manager, Ursula McGowan of the (CSSIP), is an online program said. LTDU, Michael that provides world-class training The degree is the only mathematics Adair, Canon’s to engineers and scientists in Masters by coursework offered in State Sales Australia and overseas. Manager, and Dr distance mode. Geoffrey Crisp, The course specialises in signal and “Students in this course are already LTDU Director information processing, which is working full time in the science, important for developing the next engineering and defence industries A digital video camera donated to of the Teaching at University course,” generation of expertise to work in and they need the flexibility offered the university by Canon Australia is Dr Crisp said. defence and other industries. with an online course,” said CSSIP already making a difference in the “We are recording a 10-minute The only course of its kind in Education Manager Anne-Marie work of the Learning and Teaching mini lecture from each participant, Australia, the Masters program Eliseo. Development Unit (LTDU). then returning an individual copy receives funding from the “Internet education allows us to Canon’s generosity was gratefully of a CD to each person of their Defence Science and Technology reach students all over Australia accepted by the Director of the own presentation. This enables Organisation (DSTO) and involves and deliver a world-class course in unit, Associate Professor Geoffrey them to review their own teaching five universities around Australia. a highly specialised field.” Crisp, who said use of the camera presentation and is more convenient The new program has earned would result in improved teaching by than on video tape.” Ms Eliseo said the added advantage CSSIP a national award from the to conducting the majority of the University of Adelaide staff. It is just one of the many ways in CRC Association. The award was courses online was the ability “We are currently using the digital which the unit is helping to improve presented to CSSIP last month by to attract overseas students to video camera to record academic the educational experience of both Prime Minister John Howard at a the program, with students from staff practising their teaching as part students and staff. dinner held at Parliament House in Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Canberra. the US and Canada. CSSIP Chief Executive Officer “Two years ago we did not have Engineer first non-US student Professor Matthew Cuthbertson any international enrolments and said the online Masters in the past year that has grown to receive special award degree embodied the positive to about 15%. We are not only achievements that can be delivered providing education to the next within Cooperative Research generation of science, maths and A University of Adelaide Masters student has Centres. engineering experts in Australia, become the first student from outside the “We have been able to develop a we have developed a world-class United States to receive a special award from Masters program that involves five product that can be exported one of the US’s biggest universities. Australian universities, allowing around the world.”

Dr Derek Rogers, who works at and lecturers who were a part of this,” Motorola as a Senior Staff Engineer Dr Rogers said. and Product Engineer, is completing “Hopefully this gives people inspiration his Master of Science and Technology in what they can do, be that it in study Commercialisation (MSTC) at the or business, either here in Australia or University of Adelaide. The course overseas.” involves an international component delivered in conjunction with the Dr Rogers already holds three University of Texas (Austin campus). qualifications from the University of Adelaide: a Bachelor of Engineering Dr Rogers has received a special (Electronic and Electrical) with leadership award from the University First Class Honours, a Bachelor of of Texas for not only his results in Mathematical and Computer Sciences, the course, but his advice, help and and a PhD in Engineering. leadership given to fellow students, as well as lecturers. The award has Academic Director of the MSTC never been given to a non-US student, program at Adelaide Mr Antonio and is very rarely given at all. Dottore said Dr Rogers’s award was thoroughly deserved. “I’m very pleased, it’s a great honour and I definitely thank my team mates Story by Ben Osborne

4 5 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Family loans name to world-class facility

Above: John Angove, Managing Director The University of Adelaide has further of Angove’s Wines, with Richard Angove, currently studying winemaking at the enhanced its reputation as one of the University of Adelaide, and Victoria Angove, the company’s Regional Export Manager. world’s leading educational institutions Left: Sam Tolley, Chief Executive of the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation. in wine sciences thanks to a new Photos David Ellis state-of-the-art distillation facility at the Waite Campus. “Our company has a proud tradition in producing quality spirits and wine that are recognised throughout the The Angove’s Still House, located at Graham Jones of the Wine and world. It is fitting that the Angove the Hickinbotham Roseworthy Wine Horticulture discipline at the name should be attached to such a Science Laboratory, is a major step University of Adelaide and project world-class facility in Australia.” forward for teaching and research manager for the Angove’s Still House. Dr Jones said the new still house into the production of spirits such as “Our teaching and research into would also provide a focus for brandy, whiskey and rum, together distilled beverages and fortified wines Diploma in Oenology in 1940) the presentation of advanced, with neutral spirits for fortified wine has taken place over many years, and enabled the still house to become a production. these new facilities will ensure that reality,” said Dr Jones. intense short courses in distillation technologies and spirit production. The $500,000 facility features our work is among the best in the The Managing Director of Angove’s, glass pot and continuous stills for world.” Mr John Angove, was among the “A number of Australian and overseas research and teaching, and an Italian- The still house is named after a many members of the family who distillers have already indicated manufactured small production-scale major South Australian success story, attended the official opening of the support for the running of these copper pot still, with 400 litres Angove’s Pty Ltd, Australia’s 10th still house that now bears their name. courses in 2004,” he said. capacity. largest wine company in branded “We are proud to be associated The still house was officially opened “The University of Adelaide is the wine sales. with this still house, as it represents last month by another University of only university in the world offering “Angove’s has provided generous an investment into the future of Adelaide alumnus, Mr Sam Tolley, wine programs with facilities like support for the new facility, and the Australian winemaking and the Chief Executive of the Australian this for the use of both students enthusiasm provided by Tom Angove education of Australian winemakers,” Wine and Brandy Corporation. and staff,” said Associate Professor (who graduated with the Roseworthy Mr Angove said. Story by David Ellis

4 5 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

Tougher testing urged on alternative medicines

A leading researcher from the University of Adelaide has renewed calls for alternative medicines to face the same rigorous testing and labelling requirements as standard pharmaceuticals.

Professor Alastair MacLennan, from the Professor MacLennan said the public often University’s Department of Obstetrics & assumed that alternative medicines promote Gynaecology (Women’s & Children’s Hospital), health and are safe, but in many cases their is one of Australia’s leading researchers into effectiveness and long-term safety remained alternative medicines and therapies. unknown or had been disproven in scientific In 2002 he was co-author of a paper that showed studies. Australians spend an estimated $2.3 billion a “It is only common sense that alternative year on alternative medicines and therapies. medicines should face the same rigorous “While I do believe that some alternative testing and labelling requirements as standard medicines and therapies could be beneficial for pharmaceuticals,” he said. some patients, I am concerned that many of “The public should have better evidence that these remain unproven from a scientific point of their $2.3 billion a year is being put to sound view,” Professor MacLennan said. use, and that the money they are spending on “I’m also concerned that Australians spend four alternative medicines is not doing more harm times as much on unproven therapies as on than good.” prescribed pharmaceuticals, which in most cases have been thoroughly tested.” Story by David Ellis

News in Brief

Children of the Gulf War Emotional Intelligence study Academy, the dinner aims to raise Contemporary works by Swedish money to support the State’s young A new photographic exhibition at the People aged between 40-65 who composer Knut Nystedt, New and emerging artists. University of Adelaide’s Barr Smith are fluent in English are needed Zealand-born Clare Maclean, Library depicts the harsh reality for to participate in a PhD study on On the menu is a four-course Australia’s Nigel Butterley, as well as children and their families in Iraq Emotional Intelligence. Upon gourmet dinner with wines from the more well-known works by Brahms and Haydn, give the choirs the between the two Gulf Wars. completion, all participants will go Clare Valley, entertainment, and two into a draw to win one of 20 double auctions of unique and beautiful chance to stretch their vocal talents. Children of the Gulf War is an movie passes (five drawn per month items. Tickets are $140 per person, Ticket prices are $22 adult, $14 exhibition of 58 black and white with tables of 10 available. until October). concession, $8 students. Single images by respected photojournalist If you wish to participate or would For more information or reservations tickets available through BASS on Takashi Morizumi. like further information, please call (08) 8463 5014. 131 246. (University of Adelaide The exhibition is on a national tour, contact Psychology PhD student Combined choirs in concert staff receive concession prices on and has been brought to Adelaide by Veneta Bastian on 8303 3855 presentation of Staff Card at BASS or The second concert in the Elder the Women’s International League for or email: at the door.) School of Music’s Evening Concert Peace and Freedom Australia. [email protected] Series, Three Choirs in Concert, To subscribe, contact the Manager, Children of the Gulf War is on Maestros and Apprentices will be held on Thursday, June 12 at Evening Concert Series on (08) 8303 display at the Barr Smith Library The annual Maestros and Apprentices 8.00pm in Elder Hall. 5925 (Tues & Thurs) or mobile 0402 from June 8-28. The exhibition is black tie fundraising dinner is on The evening features the School’s 120 478, or visit the website: open 8am-10pm (Monday-Thursday), again—7pm Friday, June 13 at three large vocal ensembles: the www.music.adelaide.edu.au. 8am-6pm (Friday) and 1-5pm the Adelaide Convention Centre. Elder Conservatorium Chorale, Bella Subscribers to at least four concerts (Saturday and Sunday). Organised by the Helpmann Voce and Adelaide Voices. receive free parking on campus.

6 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Ash Wednesday study calls for 1500 Australians

A research team is urging more than 1500 people who were children during the Ash Wednesday bushfires 20 years ago to come forward for a world-first study into the impact of traumatic events.

The research team, from the The research team (from left) university’s Department of Rima Al Atrash-Najar, Rebecca Roberts, Miranda Van Hooff and Psychiatry, aims to find out if the Natasha King childhood trauma of Ash Wednesday continues to affect people’s health and well being in adulthood. were exposed to a natural disaster devise better methods of treating “We are very keen to speak to anyone The study is a 20-year follow-up to by comparing them to a control associated problems. who attended one of these primary research conducted after the Ash population who were not exposed,” “We hope to recontact all 1544 schools in the years 1983-1985,” Ms Wednesday bushfires, which was said Research Officer Miranda Van people involved in the original Van Hooff said. among the first of its kind in Australia Hooff. study even if they feel they were not While many of these people may still looking at the traumatic impact of “It is also one of the largest studies affected by the bushfire,” she said. be living in or near the areas where natural disasters. in Australia to examine the effects The original study involved children they grew up, many others will have The new study will re-examine of a natural disaster and other who attended one of eight rural moved within South Australia or 809 people (now adults) who childhood traumatic events on a rural primary schools in South Australia’s interstate, she said. were exposed to the bushfires, population. south-east: Kangaroo Inn Area Story by David Ellis and compare them to a control “The results will enhance our School, Kalangadoo Primary School, population of 735 adults who did not understanding of the psychological Tarpeena Primary, Nangwarry Potential study participants are urged to call the research team: experience the bushfires. needs of people, especially children, Primary, Mt Burr Primary, Penola (08) 8222 6907 (work hours) or “This is the world’s first study to do a recovering from accidents and other Primary and Naracoorte and 0421 616 351 (after hours). long-term follow up of children who traumatic events, with the aim to Naracoorte South Primary.

Medical Research Week ’03 The month of June sees the return of Medical Research Week.

Medical Research Week (June 1-6) Research Week early, with its Sciences and Faculty of Sciences, will be the guest speaker at the aims to educate the public about Annual Scientific Meeting at the hospitals and their partner Medical Research Week Dinner at the importance and variety of Enterprise House, Unley on organisations. the Stamford Plaza Hotel (Monday, medical research being undertaken May 30. At the expo, members of the public June 2). Professor Dwyer is in Australia. A key event for the public in can ask researchers questions such Director of the Menzies Centre Organised by the Australian Society Adelaide is the Medical Research as “how do you get cancer?” “what for Population Health Research, for Medical Research (ASMR), Week Expo, to be held in Rundle is gene therapy?” and “what is stem University of Tasmania. the week sees activities around Mall on Wednesday, June 4. cell research?” There will also be a Another highlight of the week is the nation to promote public The expo is designed to showcase hands-on component of the expo, the Southern Area Schools Day education, political advocacy the medical research currently with microscopes showing the on Tuesday, June 3 at the Marion and professional development of being done by researchers and secret life of cells and free blood Cultural Centre. medical researchers. organisations within South pressure tests. For more information visit: The South Australian Division of Australia, including the University Earlier in the week, ASMR medallist www.asmr.org.au the ASMR has kicked off Medical of Adelaide’s Faculty of Health for 2003 Professor Terry Dwyer

7 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

Students to benefit from library appeal

Ryan Cornish and The annual appeal to Sonia Corsini raise funds for one of South Australia’s major Ryan is in the final year of his Bachelor of Dental resources, the University Surgery, as well as continuing his Masters in of Adelaide’s Barr Smith Science (Dentistry). He has studied in the Barr Smith Library since 1994, while still at school. Library, is on again. “The library is the key to the university, to the knowledge and to the information that everyone The Barr Smith is South Australia’s biggest needs,” he said. library, with more than two million items in its Sonia is in the final year of her Bachelor of collection. Arts majoring in Philosophy, and has started Last year, the library launched its first annual her studies in Law. She sees the library as the appeal for funds to purchase books and “lifeblood of the university”. electronic resources. “Donations to the library will underpin our “Each new book, each journal title keeps the “The support given to the appeal by graduates future as the premiere research library in library up-to-date. Today’s new purchases add and friends of the university was outstanding South Australia, as well as helping to provide to the history we already possess, making the and enabled us to purchase more than 500 titles, first-grade resources for all students of South Barr Smith Library collection an even better including a number of very significant titles,” Australian universities,” Mr Choate said. resource.” said University Librarian Ray Choate. University of Adelaide students Ryan Cornish, Donations can be made to the Alumni, “However, this work must continue, and to 25, and Sonia Corsini, 20, both agreed that Community Relations and Development office: enable this we are again seeking the public’s supporting the Barr Smith Library would greatly (08) 8303 5800. Donations of $60 or more will help. benefit students. be acknowledged with a named bookplate.

Dentists to give library new fillings Adelaide dentists are hoping to raise money to improve a vital resource for dental and oral health workers in South Australia.

University libraries throughout the Money raised in the appeal would world are having to cut back the go towards improving the state of number of journals they receive dental research and education in because of increasing costs. South Australia, and would help At the Barr Smith Library, the oral health professionals to keep number of dental journals has up to date with the latest research dropped from 79 in 1995 to 33 and techniques, said Dr Janet Fuss, in 2003. Senior Lecturer at the University of Adelaide’s Dental School. Members of the dental profession, time around we are aiming to ‘fill of the dental community, but the industry and academia in South “The ability of the Dental School to the shelves’ of the library, both in support of all members of the Australia have now joined forces conduct research and to compete terms of hard copy material and public would be welcome. with the Barr Smith Library for research funding, as well as online journals. “After all, it is the public who have to boost the number of dental provide the latest information to “To do that we will need to the most to gain from improved journals, and they’re seeking help students and practitioners, will be raise more than $100,000 for research and teaching in dentistry,” from the public to do so. greatly enhanced by the addition subscriptions, which will help she said. The new “Filling The Shelves of several journals that the library us to add between eight and 12 More information or appeal Appeal” was launched by University cannot currently afford,” Dr Fuss important titles to our subscription brochures can be obtained from the of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor said. list over the next 10 years.” Dental School: (08) 8303 5256 or Professor James McWha at the Barr “While dentists are used to dealing Dr Fuss said the appeal was (08) 8303 5409. Smith Library last month. with fillings of a different kind, this particularly aimed at members Story by David Ellis

8 9 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

Power to the poor: South Africa study puts information first

The world may be in an age of information, but not everyone has equal access to the benefits that information can bring.

There are few who know this better than Department of Anthropology lecturer Dr Andrew Skuse. Dr Skuse will spend six months in South Africa over the next two years as part of a major international study to examine how information contributes to poverty reduction in poor communities. He is one of four researchers Dr Andrew Skuse —and the only based outside of the Photo Ben Osborne UK—to take part in the project, which has received more than “So for the Internet, that’s a total of $600,000 grant funding from the about five million people in Africa UK’s Department for International —a significant percentage of those Development. The other three people live in South Africa, and are researchers, based at the London either white or wealthy. Very few School of Economics, University come from poor areas such as the College London and Oxford townships. University Internet Institute, will be undertaking similar work in Ghana, “The project that I’m involved Jamaica and India. with aims to put information and communication technologies Dr Skuse will conduct fieldwork in context without privileging A street scene from Philippi in Philippi, Cape Flats, a poor one technology or mode of Photo courtesy of Dr Andrew Skuse township on the outskirts of Cape communication over another. Town, with assistance from local field researchers at the University “It’s not just a matter of providing “HIV/AIDS is a well-understood “Normal ‘land lines’ generally of Cape Town. His broad-ranging communities like Philippi with problem in places like Philippi, haven’t penetrated Cape Flats, study will examine how information the latest computers and email and most adults understand that because the cables are valuable and is used and accessed in the Philippi facilities, it’s about supporting condom use reduces the risk of get dug up and sold, so telephone community, ranging from how information and communication HIV transmission, so while it is companies have resisted investing vital information about issues is channels that benefit and enrich important for health promotion in terrestrial infrastructure in communicated through mass media the whole community, which are activities to focus on safe sex and favour of wireless systems. and face-to-face discussions, to the inclusive and ultimately help reduce condom use, other factors such as poverty levels.” “Mobile phone use has increased use of mobile phones. domestic violence, which may be rapidly and has revolutionised the “Statistics only tell part of the story, Such channels include things like less high-profile and obvious, but way business is done there. People but they’re a useful starting point,” community radio stations, personal lead to female disempowerment and business who weren’t on the he said. “A recent United Nations communication through outreach, and the inability of women to map before are now on the map, study found that in Africa only and counselling and peer education, negotiate safe sex, also need to be and able to do business in a way one in four people have access to as well as newer technologies such addressed through communication that they haven’t been able to a radio, one in 13 to a television, as the Internet, he said. activities. previously. Technology has opened and one in 160 have access to the “But it is also important to “On the technology side, telephones up new markets for them, markets Internet—figures vastly less to understand poor people’s are a good example of how an from which they were previously those of a modern Western country information needs, and the project appropriate information technology excluded,” Dr Skuse said. such as Australia. will also focus upon this aspect.” can be used to reduce poverty. Story by Ben Osborne

9 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 New bat’s name a bright inspiration

A new species of bat has been named in honour of the Fulbright Scholarships in a gesture of thanks from a grateful student.

University of Adelaide PhD student and Harvard graduate Kristofer Helgen received the Fulbright Scholarship to study in Australia. Mr Helgen, from Coon Rapids, Minnesota, has identified more than 20 new species of mammal during the past two years, including species from Australia. A painting of the Described by one of his professors as Fulbright’s flying one of the brightest undergraduates fox by artist Peter Schouten to come from Harvard University, 23-year-old Mr Helgen is now completing his PhD in Environmental To honour the Fulbright program that Mrs Harriet Fulbright, widow of the Australians to the US, and a similar Biology at the University of Adelaide. gave him this opportunity, Mr Helgen late Senator J. William Fulbright, number for Americans to Australia. decided to name one of the new During his studies at Harvard, Mr was a guest of honour at a dinner This year a University of Adelaide species he identified after Fulbright. Helgen was inspired by Australian hosted last month by the University music graduate, jazz singer Jo Lawry, mammalogist Professor Tim The new species is Fulbright’s of Adelaide and the South Australian was awarded the scholarship to study Flannery, who was teaching at flying fox (to be known either as Fulbright Alumni Chapter. A painting in New York. of the new species was presented Harvard as the visiting Chair in Pteropus fulbrighti or Pteropus There is also another Fulbright to her by Professor James McWha, Australian Studies. fulbrightorum). It is found only on scholar heading from the US to Indonesia’s Talaud Islands, and was Vice-Chancellor of the University of Following his graduation, Mr Helgen Adelaide this year. Belinda Waltman, chosen because of its distinctiveness, Adelaide, and Professor Flannery. was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship a graduate of Brown University Professor Flannery said. to undertake a PhD with Professor The Fulbright Program is the one in Rhode Island, is coming to the Flannery at the University of Adelaide “It is one of the last, reasonably large of the largest and most prestigious University of Adelaide to study with and the South Australian Museum mammals to be undescribed until educational scholarship programs in Professor Russell Baudinette (who (Professor Flannery is Director of the now,” he said. “This bat is important the world. The Australian-American was one of Kris Helgen’s supervisors) museum and Affiliate Professor of the because it can tell us a lot about the Fulbright Commission annually in Environmental Biology. Belinda university). origin of fruit bats in the region.” provides up to 20 scholarships for arrives this month.

Newsmakers

Professor Mike Tyler followed up a Constitutional law authority Dr past epidemics such as the plague, A delighted Professor Charles recent appearance on Sixty Minutes John Williams was in much tuberculosis and influenza. Bodman Rae told The Advertiser by speaking to ABC Radio Darwin demand throughout May as the crisis Food preservation took on a whole (May 10) about the achievements (May 14) about the impact of the surrounding then Governor-General new meaning with the appearance of of cello-playing twins, Pei-Jee and cane toad in Kakadu National Park Dr Peter Hollingworth continued Dr Barbara Santich on ABC Radio Pei-Sian Ng. —an impact he predicts to be greater to deepen, speaking to most major Adelaide (May 2). She spoke with Professor Richard Ruffin appeared than that of mining. national media outlets. He was Carole Whitelock about how she is on Imparja Television (May 6) also featured in the Australian The goalposts for sporting club putting together an Australian Ark of to talk about his research into Financial Review (May 17). sponsorship have changed, according Taste, an organisation which will aim how many asthmatics suffer from to Professor Pascale Quester. Ms Yvonne Routledge took to preserve worthy foods that are in depression. She told WIN News Albury (May Channel Nine’s Postcards (May 4) danger of extinction. Australia has actually experienced 6) that business spending on such through the history of Urrbrae House Professor Peter Howe spoke to a net “brain gain”, rather than the sponsorship is now much tighter, and its founder, Peter Waite. The Advertiser (May 22) about common perception of a “brain with an ability to know how to ABC Radio Mackay (May 1) spoke the potential link between omega-3 drain”, according to Professor research and target potential clients to Professor Chris Burrell about fatty acids and treating depression, Graeme Hugo in the Sydney being critical. how the spread of SARS relates to particularly in pregnant women. Morning Herald (May 5).

10 11 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 What’s happened to our native species?

continued from page 1

“Some of the native species that have relatively tolerant of the change from become extinct in the Adelaide area natural to urban environments.” include the numbat, quoll, platypus, With 617 successful new species, wombat and western pygmy possum, plants represent the biggest increase while the common brushtail possum, in introduced species. Some 89 water rat and the southern brown native plant species have been lost bandicoot are still present,” she said. (or 8% of the original number of Introduced mammals include the red native plant species). Less than 4% fox, koala and rabbit. of the city’s original vegetation in “Almost all the medium-sized ground- 1836 still remains and a great many dwelling marsupials have become more species are at serious risk. extinct from the Adelaide area. “The main vegetation at the time of Mammal species on the plains have European settlement was temperate been devastated, but many of the and box grassy woodland, but with small hill species still remain.” heavy clearance for the development There has been little change in the of Adelaide townships, grazing overall number of bird species: 21 and agriculture, these woodland native species became extinct, but 20 communities have been destroyed. species were introduced. “However, “The orchid and erect perennial Catherine Tait most of the birds became extinct groups have also suffered losses, Photo Ben Osborne since 1959, and it is clear that many but the climber, annual, herbaceous bird species are declining today and perennial and tall shrub layer groups Ms Tait is now working for the newly Dr Daniels said Ms Tait’s research are at great risk of extinction,” Ms have all increased. Most strikingly, formed Centre for Urban Habitats, illustrated the manner in which the Tait said. trees were aggressively introduced, which is headed by the University centre can investigate ecosystems Two reptile species were introduced, changing the Adelaide plains from of Adelaide’s Associate Professor in the city of Adelaide, and establish while two became extinct (for a grassy woodland to a forest. Christopher Daniels (who was also Adelaide as a model city for total of 56 species both in 1836 and “Initially there were large increases her Honours supervisor). Besides understanding these complex issues today). The number of amphibian in Mediterranean and European the university, other partners in the in biology. species (seven) has remained plant species, but this increase has centre include the Royal Adelaide “When we set up the Centre for unaltered in almost 170 years. stopped. Now it is predominantly the Zoo, Adelaide City Council, Botanic Urban Habitats late last year, this was “It appears that the native reptiles Southern African species that are still Gardens and the South Australian exactly the sort of research we had and amphibians in Adelaide are slowly arriving in the area.” Museum. in mind,” he said. “Catherine has shown a great deal of resourcefulness in tracking down a vast quantity of “Urban systems are dynamic the city, and the management of problem species (for information particularly relevant to environments in which the example, introduced and native weeds). It is important to all Adelaide residents. assemblages of the constituent find out what we have in terms of biodiversity both past and “It also shows people outside flora and fauna are a direct result present, what we have lost, and why, because that helps us of the human influence,” says to plan for the future.” Adelaide and South Australia how Associate Professor Chris Daniels much importance we place on our of the Centre for Urban Habitats. natural environment and how serious 1836 2002 “As the world’s population we are about working to retain it.” increasingly includes people Native plants 1136 1047 Ms Tait thanked the large number of with an urban lifestyle, it is Native birds 292 271 people and organisations who gave predominantly from this city environment that they will Native mammals 40 20 gather their views on nature. Native reptiles 56 54 her assistance in obtaining the data Native amphibians 7 7 she needed. “They were essential in “The importance of understanding urban ecology is the success of my project,” she said. particularly relevant for Australians. Nearly 85% of Introduced plants - 617 Australians live in towns with 1000 or more people, while Introduced birds - 20 “I’m now looking forward to working two-thirds of us live in the eight capital cities. Introduced mammals - 9 at the Centre for Urban Habitats, and “There are two major concerns for biological diversity in Introduced reptiles - 2 examining Adelaide’s environment in Introduced amphibians - 0 urban environments: the maximisation of biodiversity within even more detail.” Story by Ben Osborne

10 11 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

Adelaide Festival How do you stop the of Ideas 2003

Hope and Fear are the themes of the 2003 Adelaide Festival of self sabotage? Ideas, to be held from July 10- 13 at various venues on North Terrace, including the University of Adelaide. A new short course aims to A large number of challenging help members of the public overseas and Australian speakers feature at this year’s festival. take on their worst enemy: They include former UN weapons themselves. inspector Richard Butler, Middle East correspondent Robert Fisk, non-conformist political commentator George Monbiot, “People can often be their own worst enemies in their Muslim scholar and cultural critic personal and professional lives,” according to course Ziauddin Sardar, and Harvard developer and trainer Helen Alm. University Professor of Scripture “Although sometimes we seek to blame others for the and Interpretation Elisabeth shortcomings in our work and home environments, Schussler Fiorenza. there are often things we can do to improve the way we The festival encourages the public work and interact with others, and the way in which we to participate in robust debate and treat ourselves. passionate discussion about the “Our course addresses a range of issues that people might big issues in the world today, with not be aware of, or feel powerless to change, in their day- speakers who are leading thinkers to-day lives. By addressing some of these key issues we in their field. can all become more effective workers or managers, and Most of the sessions for the more effective in our personal lives,” she said. festival will be free and open These issues include: taking on too much, finding it The half-day course is being run by the University to all. Tickets for keynote hard to say no, procrastination, perfectionism, seeking of Adelaide’s Centre for Professional & Continuing presentations will be available approval from others, finding it hard to make decisions, Education, from 9am-12.30pm on Wednesday, June 18. from BASS. needing to control everything, and needlessly apologising. More information about the full “Through this thought-provoking course, participants will For more information about courses available program can be found at the have the opportunity to explore these limiting behaviours through Professional & Continuing Education, phone official website: and more, and learn practical strategies to overcome (08) 8303 4777 or visit: www.adelaide.edu.au/pce www.adelaidefestivalofideas.com.au them,” Ms Alm said.

Coming Events

Monday, June 2 Wednesday, June 4 Maker & Historian, Managing Director, Tuesday, June 10 12.30pm CDRC seminar: “12 months at Medical Research Week Expo: featuring Doyle Media Services). Seminar Rm 1, 1.10pm Student workshop: the Eastman – what did I learn?” by Jeff research conducted at South Australia’s 4th Floor, Reiger Building, Women’s & “Meditation”. Counselling Centre, ground Mount. Boardroom, Colgate Australian universities and hospitals, part of Medical Children’s Hospital. floor, Horace Lamb Bld, North Terrace Clinical Dental Research Centre, 2nd Research Week (June 1-6). Rundle Mall. Campus. Floor, Adelaide Dental Hospital, Frome Rd. www.asmr.org.au/states/SA/index.html Friday, June 6 1.10pm History seminar: “The Pre- 1.10pm Geology & Geophysics seminar: 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert Wednesday, June 11 emptive Strike: Cromwell in Scotland” by “Supercritical fluids in the Earth’s crust” Series: Jazz program, featuring Michelle 1.10pm Geology & Geophysics Associate Professor Roger Hainsworth by Dr Andreas Schmidt Mumm (Geology Nicolle (voice), Bruce Hancock (piano), seminar: “Lake Eyre fluvial-lacustrine (Honorary Visiting Research Fellow, & Geophysics). Mawson Lecture Theatre, sedimentology” by Dr Simon Lang History). Rm 420, Napier Bld, North John Aue (double bass), Laurie Kennedy North Terrace Campus. (National Centre for Petroleum Geology & Terrace Campus. (drums). Elder Hall, North Terrace Geophysics). Mawson Lecture Theatre, 8pm Classical Association of South Campus. Tickets $5 at the door from Thursday, June 5 North Terrace Campus. Australia: “The Afterlife in Ancient 12.30pm. 12.05pm Psychology seminar: Philosophy” by Han Baltussen. Council “Children’s performance on the travelling Thursday, June 12 Room, 7th Floor, Kenneth Wills Building, Sunday, June 8 sale’s person problem” by Margaret North Terrace Campus. 1pm Chemical Pathology seminar: Chandler (PhD student). Departmental 3pm Organ Music Society of Adelaide: “Making Our Hospital Safe and Secure” Tuesday, June 3 Library, Rm 526, Hughes Building, North free Organ Recital with Philip Swanton by Anne Leahy (Occupational Health 1.10pm Student workshop: “The Art of Terrace Campus. (Sydney Conservatorium of Music). Consultant) and Brian Milde (Security/ Breathing”. Counselling Centre, ground 1pm Chemical Pathology seminar: “Tom Featuring works by Bach, Clerambault, Fire Safety Manager). Seminar Rm 1, floor, Horace Lamb Bld, North Terrace Kruse - Stories of the Back of Beyond Racquet and Rinck. Elder Hall, North 4th Floor, Reiger Building, Women’s & Campus. Mailman” by Ian Doyle (Documentary Terrace Campus. Children’s Hospital.

12 13 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Students face $70,000 challenge

Young people with bright ideas are taking up the challenge in a business- like competition that offers more than $70,000 in prizes.

The annual Entrepreneurs’ Challenge “The winning team will receive prizes (formerly E-Challenge) is run by the to the value of $50,000, the second University of Adelaide and Hewlett- team $17,000 plus and the third Packard Australia. $5000. And, just as importantly, the Hewlett-Packard Australia is again prizes relate to helping the recipients the major sponsor of the event, get their venture off the ground. which sees participating teams plan “The 2002 Entrepreneurs’ Challenge for business ventures that have real was a tremendous success, commercial value. particularly due to the involvement Teams consult with industry mentors, of many generous sponsors, and we academics, management consultants are very confident this year’s will be and other key supporters throughout bigger and better,” she said. “It is also an excellent opportunity opportunity for Adelaide’s brightest the competition, gaining a wide range The past two events have yielded to marry the learning from our entrepreneurial minds. of skills in the process. some talented and imaginative academic programs and research “The challenge encourages ventures, and included a host of activities with the practical entrepreneurship and the building “Teams have to conduct market experience that the challenge offers.” research, carry out feasibility studies bright students. Many of these have of new Australian businesses. It and draw up business plans for their come from the university’s Business Professor McWha said the skills stands out from other business plan concepts, all within a six-month Initiatives from Graduates program developed during the Entrepreneurs’ competitions because it focuses on period—and each team must include based at the University of Adelaide Challenge would be invaluable to the the commercial viability of the idea, at least one University of Adelaide Research Park (Thebarton Campus). students as they finish their studies not just the business plan.” student,” said Karen Franks, project Vice-Chancellor Professor James and move on into the wider world. Story by Howard Salkow manager of the challenge and McWha said the Entrepreneurs’ Mr Jack Gargano, Director of More information about the Business Development Manager for Challenge was “an excellent means Finance and Administration for challenge can be obtained from: the Adelaide Graduate School of of nurturing [the] innovative spirit in Hewlett-Packard Australia, said www.adelaide.edu.au/echallenge/ Business. our students”. the challenge was an important

8pm Elder School of Music’s Evening 2pm Centre for Asian Studies seminar: Thursday, June 19 Tuesday, June 24 Concert Series: Three Choirs in Concert, “China’s Fragmentary Identity: the Failure 1pm Chemical Pathology seminar: “A 7.30pm Musicological Society of with works by Nystedt, Brahms, Haydn, of National Autonomy Policy in Xinjiang Film Maker’s Lot - Stories From the Other Australia, SA Chapter meeting: Mark Maclean and Butterley, featuring the Elder and Tibet” by Greg De Cure (Politics). Side” by Rolf DeHeer (Film Director, Carroll. Rm 1107, Schulz Bld, North Conservatorium Chorale, Bella Voce and Rm 518 Ligertwood Bld, North Terrace Vertigo Productions). Seminar Rm 1, Terrace Campus. Adelaide Voices directed by Carl Crossin. Campus. 4th Floor, Reiger Building, Women’s & Elder Hall, North Terrace Campus. Tickets Children’s Hospital. Thursday, June 26 4pm Obstetrics & Gynaecology seminar: $22 adults, $14 conc, $8 students 1pm Chemical Pathology seminar: “The “Hormone refractory prostate cancer: available through BASS on 131 246. Friday, June 20 Latest From Olympus in Digital Cameras” clinical reality or myth” by Professor (University of Adelaide staff at concession 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert by Mr Peter Hunt (Sales Specialist, Wayne Tilley (Dame Roma Mitchell Chair prices on presentation of Staff Card at Series: solo and chamber music featuring Olympus). Seminar Rm 1, 4th Floor, in Cancer Research, Hanson Institute, BASS or at the door.) emerging artists from the Australian Reiger Building, Women’s & Children’s IMVS). Seminar Rm, 6th Floor, Medical National Academy of Music. Elder Hall, Hospital. Friday, June 13 School North, Frome Rd. North Terrace Campus. Tickets $5 at the Friday, June 27 7pm Helpmann Academy fundraiser: door from 12.30pm. 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert 4pm Obstetrics & Gynaecology seminar: “Maestros and Apprentices – A Gem of 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series: works by Wagner, Rossini “Manipulation of the immune response a Night”. Black tie event to raise money Series: works by Couperin, Milhaud and and Tchaikovsky, featuring the Elder to apoptotic prostate tissue” by Dr John Klughardt, featuring Peter Duggan (oboe), for young and emerging artists. Adelaide Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra Hayball (Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Keith Crellin (viola), Janis Laurs (cello), Gil with Nicholas Braithwaite (conductor). Convention Centre. $140 per person Research Laboratories, Hanson Institute/ Sullivan (piano/harpsichord). Elder Hall, Elder Hall, North Terrace Campus. Tickets (tables of 10 available). For reservations IMVS). Seminar Rm, 6th Floor, Medical North Terrace Campus. Tickets $5 at the $5 at the door from 12.30pm. call (08) 8463 5014. School North, Frome Rd. door from 12.30pm.

12 13 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Leanne’s new life: from work experience to full-time

Leanne Chandler, the School of Commerce’s recently appointed receptionist, firmly believes that life does begin at 40.

Following an 18-year break from the and staff,” said Ms Allayne Webster, Leanne Chandler (left) workforce, Ms Chandler began her personal assistant to the Dean of and Allayne Webster Photo Howard Salkow new career at the university two days Law. after hitting the Big 4-0. And the “As it turned out, we needed a casual mother of two sons and a daughter staff member for a six-month period has the university’s Law School to and Ms Chandler proved to be the thank for her change in life. best candidate.” Two years ago the Law School For Ms Chandler, this is where it work experience program and to the said Ms Webster. “The Year 10-12 launched a work experience program got exciting. While working at the School of Commerce for appointing students gain a valuable insight into where Year 10-12 scholars and adult Law School, her current post was me to my current position.” the university and we will be front students were invited to apply for advertised; she applied and found The work experience program of mind when they consider their weekly placements. Ms Chandler was herself with a full-time position in attracts students from across the tertiary education.” among the lucky ones to be offered Commerce. State and, in Ms Chandler’s case, Story by Howard Salkow an opportunity. “I am still on cloud nine. I never adult learners from Marden College, For further information about “She worked for us for a week expected it would happen so quickly,” where she was completing a business the work experience program, and stood out with her incredible she said. “Allayne has been extremely certificate. please call Ms Sarah Wickham: efficiency, great personality and supportive and I am grateful to the “The university will benefit from (08) 8303 5063. solid interaction with the students university, to the Law School for its this program in the long-term,”

We Understand Postgrad quality Your Deadlines papers go online Australia’s biggest collection of papers on quality in postgraduate research is now a major resource online.

The collected papers from five discussion about quality in Quality in Postgraduate Research postgraduate research turned (QPR) conferences held in into a major event for universities colour printing Adelaide over the past 10 years from around Australia and New digital printing are now available thanks to the Zealand,” said Dr Gerry Mullins, University of Adelaide and the one of the organisers of the direct mail processing University of Canberra. conferences. digital imaging The QPR conferences began in “The website now contains the 1994, organised by the three best—and only—collection in internet development South Australian universities. Australasia of discussion papers software development on postgraduate research quality. Over the years they have become graphic design regarded as the most important It is a major resource for anyone conferences of their kind in interested in the field.” Australia, attracting some of the Most of the papers presented at www.laneprint.com.au biggest names in the field, and each conference are available the significant involvement of on the new QPR website, which Ph (08) 8179 9900 postgraduate students. is hosted by the University of “What started out as a local Canberra and can be found at: Fax (08) 8376 1044 concern about the need for www.canberra.edu.au/celts/QPR/

14 15 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003

Alumni News

Adelaide graduates thriving Alumni Association Annual General on Friendly Street Meeting 2003 The 19th Annual General Past and present University of Meeting of the University of Adelaide Alumni Association Adelaide students feature heavily will be held on Tuesday, June 17 in two new poetry collections from 5.30-7pm in the Margaret Murray Room, Level 4, Union published recently. House (opposite the Equinox café), North Terrace Campus. Both works, blue: friendly street Creative WritingWriting at Adelaide in 2002 The agenda includes the Annual 27 and new poets eight, have been and is now working on her fi rst rst Report and Financial Statements published by well-known Adelaide novel, as well as writing the script for for the calendar year 2002 poetry collective Friendly Street a new play and co-writing a libretto, Driver has taught communication and revisions to the Alumni Poets with the assistance of Wakefi eld both on commission. skills, drama, English and creative Association Constitution. Press. new poets eight is part of the writing. She has completed an MA of Relevant documents can be blue is the annual anthology of Friendly Poets’ New Poet series, Creative Writing at Adelaide, and now obtained from the Alumni, Friendly Street, and showcases 87 which publishes writers whose work writes full-time. Community Relations & of the best poems by more than 70 has not previously appeared in Mortimer, who has a Bachelor of Development offi ce, different poets. collection form. Arts (Honours) degree in Philosophy, Level 1, 230 North Terrace, It is edited by Adelaide graduate K*m All three authors featured, Elaine writes happily and extensively on a ph: +61 8 8303 5800, Mann and Graham Catt. Mann’s Barker, Tess Driver and David range of issues and interests. fax: +61 8 8303 5808 or from: poetry has won several prizes and Mortimer, are Adelaide graduates. The Adelaidean has one copy each www.adelaide.edu.au/alumni been published in newspapers, Barker was formerly a librarian of blue: friendly street 27 and new All members are encouraged to journals, books and online. She has before obtaining an MA in English poets eight to give away to one attend. RSVP by June 16 to Kim also performed at festivals around Language and Literature. She has reader. To win, please phone (08) McBride at +61 8 8303 3196 or Australia. run courses in Creative Writing for 8303 5174 and leave your name and [email protected] She completed a Master of Arts in many years. contact details.

Alumni Events

Flight of Ideas Subscription Series Concert ‘Devotion’ Alumni Association Annual Dinner Date / Time: Saturday, June 14 - 8pm Guest Speaker: University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha Location: St Bartholomew’s, 77 Beulah Road, Norwood Date / Time: Tuesday, June 17 - 7pm for 7.30pm Cost: $15 full, $12 conc, $10 Friends of the Uni of Adelaide Library Location: Equinox (Union House) Includes Bach’s Cantata BWV 147 and Haydn’s Missa Brevis de St Johannis de Deo, Cost: Tickets $30 from the Alumni, Community Relations & both performed with chamber orchestra. Development Offi ce Tickets available at the door on the night or pre-book by phoning Celia on Includes complimentary pre-dinner drink and nibbles, main course, dessert, soft 0414 014 144 or email: fl [email protected] drinks, juices, tea and coffee. Cash bar available. RSVP: by June 11 to Kim McBride, ph: (08) 8303 3196 or John Bray Law Chapter Lecture email: [email protected] Guest Speaker: His Honour Judge Wallace (Senior Judge, US Court of Appeals), with commentator the Hon. Michael Atkinson MP, South Australian Attorney-General, and Peter Goers in Conversation with Elizabeth Silsbury chairperson the Hon. Justice Gray (Supreme Court). Luncheon organised by the Cornell Chapter (Arts and Performing Arts) Date / Time: Monday, June 16 - 6pm Date / Time: Wednesday, July 9 - 12.30pm Location: Equinox (Union House) Location: Eclipse (former Upper Refectory), Level 4, Union House Cost: free Cost: Tickets $20 from the Alumni, Community Relations & RSVP: by Wednesday, June 11 to Kim McBride, ph (08) 8303 3196 or Development Offi ce, ph: (08) 8303 5800, fax: (08) 8303 5808 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Alumni Association Annual General Meeting Includes baguettes and focaccias with gourmet fi llings, platters of fresh seasonal fruit, Date / Time: Tuesday, June 17 - 5pm orange juice, tea and coffee. Cash bar available. Location: Marg Murray Rm (Level 4, Union House – opposite Equinox Café) RSVP: by June 16 to Kim McBride, ph: (08) 8303 3196, fax: (08) 8303 5808 For information on any Alumni events please contact the Alumni, Community Relations or email: [email protected] and Development offi ce, telephone 8303 5800 or visitwww.adelaide.edu.au/alumni/

14 15 Adelaidean News from the University of Adelaide Volume 12 Number 5 June 2003 Double scholarship success for twin cellists Identical twins Pei-Sian and Pei-Jee Ng have the music world at their feet after being awarded major scholarships to further their study in the UK.

The 18-year-old cellists, who are Pei-Sian and Pei-Jee are regarded studying for their Bachelor of Music as exceptionally talented and (Honours) degree at the Elder School accomplished musicians, who, of Music, have each been awarded under the guidance of Janis Laurs, two-year scholarships valued at have each won numerous State and a combined total of more than national awards and prizes. $120,000 for postgraduate study at Pei-Jee was the winner of the the acclaimed Royal Northern College Symphony Australia Young of Music in Manchester. They will Performers’ Awards in 2001, while leave to take up the scholarships in this year Pei-Sian has performed with September this year. the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra. Pei-Sian will receive the Elder The twins said they were appreciative School of Music’s most prestigious of the support given to them by the scholarship, the Elder Overseas Adelaide music community, and were Scholarship. This scholarship was excited about embarking on the next established in 1883 by an endowment stage of their careers. from Sir Thomas Elder, and has Pei-Jee said: “Without the help of the been held by such notable Adelaide Elder School of Music and Professor musicians as Miriam Hyde and most Charles Bodman Rae, it would be recently the baritone Grant Doyle. impossible to even dream of studying Pei-Jee (left) and Pei-Sian Ng In addition, Pei-Sian has received in the UK.” Pei-Sian said: “We can’t Photo Ben Osborne another award linked to the Elder wait to participate in the RNCM Overseas Scholarship, from the International Cello Festival and listen “This is an absolutely fantastic their careers where they need to Victoria League for Commonwealth to all the great cellists of today, achievement, not least of all for Pei- travel and study overseas to gain the Friendship SA. perform and teach.” Jee and Pei-Sian, but also their family, experience and learning necessary to Pei-Jee has been awarded one of the Elder Professor of Music and Dean of the Elder School of Music and the become world-class musicians. world’s most coveted and valuable the Elder School of Music Professor South Australian music community in “Such achievements also show that music awards, an International Charles Bodman Rae said the general,” Professor Bodman Rae said. Adelaide can produce performers Postgraduate Scholarship from scholarships would further prepare “I am delighted that the Ng twins will who are capable of obtaining careers the Associated Board of the Royal Pei-Sian and Pee-Jee for their careers be able to study together at the Royal on the world stage.” Schools of Music. as international-class musicians. Northern. They are at the stage of Story by Ben Osborne