November 2011 | Volume 20 | Number 7 | Free Publication

Rhodes Scholar’s global health challenge

Story on page 5 DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR (RESEARCH)

Adelaidean is the offi cial newspaper of the University of Adelaide. It provides news and information about Creating a healthy future the University to the general public, with a focus on Life Impact. Circulation: 9,000 per month Online readership: for us all 140,000 hits per month (on average) www.adelaide.edu.au/adelaidean

I doubt anyone would dispute that support for health Editor: David Ellis and medical research is absolutely fundamental to Design: Chris Tonkin building and sustaining a healthier society. Writers: Candy Gibson Kate Husband When the Federal Minister for Mental Health Research Institute. Collaborative research Robyn Mills and Ageing, Mark Butler, announced the 2012 allows us to reach for new frontiers and harness Intern writer: National Health and Medical Research Council expertise from an even greater pool of talent. Sarah Bown grants last month it was a timely reminder of the The University has a long and distinguished Contributors: value and impact of university-based medical history in research with the likes of Florey and Connie Dutton, Rebecca Pym research. the Braggs having transformed our world Cover photo: The University of Adelaide received a record- through their remarkable discoveries. Rhodes Scholar Mark Hassall breaking $44.8 million in funding for more than But only recently did I become aware Photo by Matt Turner, courtesy of The Advertiser 60 projects, winning the most funding in Australia of another good story in the annals of the Deadline for December issue: relative to size, and the sixth most in absolute University’s research. Friday 11 November terms. This wonderful result is a very signifi cant Thorburn Brailsford Robertson gained Do you receive too many Adelaideans? increase on the amount awarded for 2011 and a degree in physiology at the University in Not enough? Want to be added to our refl ects the prestige of the researchers and 1905 (and almost turned to physics on being mailing list or taken off? the University’s strong commitment to building taught here by William Bragg). After stints at Contact us to let us know. capacity across health sciences and sciences. University of California, Berkeley and Toronto as Editorial enquiries: The grants awarded will help advance the a professor, he returned to Adelaide to take up Phone: +61 8 8303 5414 Email: [email protected] careers of many of the University’s researchers a Chair and worked in the areas of physiology, and, more importantly, trigger new medical biochemistry, and pharmacology. Mailing address: Adelaidean discoveries and deliver tremendous health One of his many impressive achievements Marketing & Strategic Communications benefi ts for our community. was that he established and improved a method The University of Adelaide Especially pleasing was the success of our key for producing insulin in bulk very shortly after SA 5005 Australia research partners, based in our neighbourhood its discovery at Toronto. Remarkably, the Royal CRICOS Provider Number 000123M

– SA Pathology, the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide Hospital was using his supply of insulin Printed by: the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, the Women’s on diabetics in 1923 – just one year after the Lane Print & Post and Children’s Hospital, the Lyell McEwin published discovery. Registered by Australia Post Hospital, and the Women’s and Children’s Health Tragically, Thorburn Brailsford Robertson died No 565001/00046 at 45, in 1930; he apparently succumbed to

infl uenza. Overwork and asthma were thought to Adelaidean is printed on Alpine be contributors. Coated paper which features the So affectionately was he regarded that a following environmental profi le. stained glass window tribute was created in his dalton.com.au honour. I decided to track down this window, and it turns out that it is a mere six metres from my offi ce next to the inner staircase in the Mitchell Building! Superb it is too. This is only one of many stories that exemplify the collaboration, high-quality basic research and translation that we value so highly as a Follow the University of Adelaide on University and as a community. Facebook and Twitter:

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PROFESSOR MIKE BROOKS Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research)

2 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 5 | September 2011 Contents

$44.8 million for medical 4 discoveries

COVER STORY Rhodes Scholar’s 5 global health challenge

Event celebrates the 6 history of History

Student on-campus 7 space revolution

8 Graduations 2011

Family heirloom to 9 mark graduation

Helping stroke patients 10 who can’t swallow

Sports lab a winner 11 for students

Boost to education access 12 $100,000 win for cataract drug Remembering an acclaimed What does the future author Drug to combat problem hold for learning? 13 drinking Adopted greyhounds make A major event at the University of Adelaide this month will 14 great companions for focus on one of the most important aspects of university life: Roseworthy vet clinic teaching and learning. A decade of support 15 Alumni privileges The program for each day will include Professor Quester said delivering the keynote addresses, interactive workshops, best learning outcomes for students was open forums and showcases of the latest paramount. 16 Coming Events thinking on the educational experience. “It goes without saying that learning and “The University of Adelaide is keen to teaching is not the same as it was when ensure we continue to innovate on teaching the University was fi rst established, and it and learning,” said the Deputy Vice- will always change. It’s important for us to Chancellor and Vice-President (Academic), look at what the future holds for learning Professor Pascale Quester. at our University, how we can engage “With quality, equity, and learning and with students, and how we can deliver teaching outcomes being key themes meaningful outcomes that will be relevant leading Australia’s higher education reform, to our graduates throughout their lives,” the time is right for us to hold an event that Professor Quester said. discusses these issues and helps to inform While most of the events for the Festival the way forward.” of Learning & Teaching will be run at Professor Quester said the Festival of the North Terrace Campus, a number of Learning & Teaching would bring together workshops and keynote speeches will academic and professional staff from also be held at Roseworthy Campus and across the University, as well as students videoconferenced to North Terrace and and external stakeholders to “engage, Waite. discuss and co-create”. For more information about the festival, “This event aims to spark momentum including the program of events, go to: around new approaches to teaching and www.adelaide.edu.au/festival-lt learning. My hope is that it will produce lively and spirited discussion; we should be passionately debating the future of learning at our University, for the benefi t of all.” Story by David Ellis

Volume 20 | Number 5 | September 2011 Adelaidean 3 RESEARCH $44.8 million for medical discoveries The University of Adelaide has cemented its reputation as one of the premier health and medical research institutions in Australia after being awarded a record $44.8 million in Federal Government funding.

The Federal Minister for Mental Health Women’s and Children’s Hospital, the • $1 million to Professor Jennifer and Ageing, the Hon. Mark Butler, Women’s and Children’s Health Research Couper: Early environmental determinants announced the 2012 National Health and Institute and the Lyell McEwin Hospital. of type 1 diabetes; Medical Research Council grants at the “The projects earmarked for funding • $909,580 to Professor Sharad Kumar: University’s North Terrace Campus last from 2012 will ultimately result in many new Control of sodium and chloride transport month. medical discoveries and improved health by an enzyme involved in protein A total of 61 health and medical grants outcomes for the community,” Professor modifi cation; were awarded to University of Adelaide Brooks said. researchers, representing the lion’s share of NHMRC Project Grants awarded to • $429,231 to Professor Maria Makrides: funding awarded in the State. In total, South University of Adelaide researchers included: Does n-3 LCPUFA (such as from fi sh oil) Australian institutions were awarded nearly supplementation in pregnancy reduce • $4.8 million to Professor Gary Wittert: $60 million. asthma and allergies in school age Testosterone for the prevention of Relative to size, the University achieved children? diabetes mellitus in high risk men; the best result in Australia and was the sixth Twelve University of Adelaide researchers most successful in absolute terms. • $1.9 million to Professor Caroline and affi liates received $6.3 million in total Professor Mike Brooks, the University’s Crowther: Does antenatal magnesium for Early Career and Research Fellowships, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), said sulphate given to women at risk of preterm and two Centres of Research Excellence the result was “a brilliant outcome” for the birth between 30 and 34 weeks’ gestation focusing on nutrition and dental health University and the State. reduce the risk of death or cerebral palsy services were awarded $2.5 million and “It justifi es an ambitious investment in their children?; $2.4 million respectively. and growth strategy we are undertaking • $1.8 million to Dr Carmel Collins: DHA in health and medical research at the for the reduction of bronchopulmonary Results from the most recent rounds University, including the establishment dysplasia in premature babies; of Australian Research Council funding of the Robinson Institute which is an were not available at the time Adelaidean international leader in reproductive health. • $1.5 million to Associate Professor went to print. “It also endorses the remarkable Tamas Revesz: An international clinical contribution of our collaborative partners, trial to evaluate new therapies to improve Story by Candy Gibson including SA Pathology, the Royal Adelaide survival of children with relapsed acute Photo by Randy Larcombe Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, the lymphoblastic leukaemia;

4 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 SCHOLARSHIPS

Rhodes Scholar’s global health challenge

Medical student Mark Hassall has become the 105th student from the University of Adelaide to be awarded a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship.

Mark was announced as South demonstrate a strong propensity to emerge “I aspire to be a national leader in Australia’s 2012 winner at a ceremony at as “leaders for the world’s future”. Indigenous public health, as well as a Government House last month. Mark has a long list of academic and medical specialist. The scholarship was presented by personal achievements. These include his “Given Oxford’s standing as one of the the Governor of South Australia, His selection to participate in two, four-week top fi ve European universities in public Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce medical electives in Oxford and Cambridge health research, the supervisors and AC CSC RANR, who described Mark as next year, and being awarded the University academic environment for this research “an exceptional candidate in an extremely of Adelaide Medical School’s 2010 research project will greatly expand and strengthen high quality fi eld of eight young South prize, where his fi ndings were presented my skills and abilities,” he said. Australians”. at the International Movement Disorders Governor Scarce congratulated Mark on The prestigious scholarship, established conference in Argentina. his outstanding academic achievement and by Cecil Rhodes, offers a unique In addition to this, he has been a past “will watch with enormous interest as he opportunity for postgraduate students to president of the Adelaide Medical Students’ embarks on an exciting study program in study at the University of Oxford. Society (AMSS), holds Bronze, Silver and the fi eld of health science at the University Mark is in his fi fth year of a medical Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and of Oxford”. degree and has also completed a completed the London Marathon in 2009. “The Rhodes Scholarship has a tradition Bachelor of Medical Science at the He was also awarded one of only three of acknowledging academic excellence University of Adelaide. national Order of Australia Association and recognising the potential for scholars Winning the scholarship will give Mark Foundation Scholarships in recognition of to show future leadership and make an the opportunity to study a Masters in his achievements in medicine. outstanding contribution to society. Global Heath Science at Oxford from Mark is passionate about Indigenous “I am confi dent that Mr Hassall will October next year. health, having spent time providing medical maintain this fi ne tradition,” he said. “I was pleasantly shocked to hear the assistance within remote Indigenous result,” he said. communities in Western Australia and the Story by Sarah Bown Candidates for the Rhodes Scholarship APY lands. are selected on the basis of outstanding “The challenge laid down by Cecil intellect, character, leadership, and Rhodes ‘to fi ght the world’s fi ght’ resonates Above: Rhodes Scholar Mark Hassall commitment to service. The Rhodes strongly with my ambition to close the at Government House Scholarship supports students who Indigenous life expectancy gap,” Mark said. Photo by Matt Turner, courtesy of The Advertiser

Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Adelaidean 5 HUMANITIES Event celebrates the history of History A one-day symposium covering more than a century of history teaching at the University of Adelaide will be held next month.

The event, on Friday 2 December, • Andrew Buxton, a former president leads up to the 110th anniversary of of both state and national history the appointment of George Cockburn teachers’ associations, who now Henderson as Professor of History, and teaches at Concordia College; founder of the Honours School of History. • John Calvert, Reader in History The symposium will feature a program 1950-60 and founding editor of the canvassing the “history of History” on the Australian Dictionary of Biography; North Terrace Campus. 2012 not only marks Henderson’s 110th • Robert Dare, who taught History at the anniversary, but also the 10th anniversary University of Adelaide from 1971 until of the transformation of the Department his retirement in 2006; created by Henderson into the present • Roger Knight, who has taught History Discipline of History in the School of History at the University of Adelaide since and Politics. 1968; Symposium coordinator Wilfrid Prest said for a multi-authored book to be published in • Margaret Hosking, who has worked in the program would offer some long-range 2012 by the University of Adelaide Press. the Barr Smith Library since 1977, and perspectives on the University’s History The symposium will be held in the became research librarian for History students, staff, research and teaching from Ira Raymond Room of the Barr Smith in 1984; early days to the present, together with Library from 9.00am-5.00pm on Friday personal recollections and memoirs. • Robin Prior, who lectured at the 2 December. Speakers include prominent History University of NSW (Australian Defence graduates and teachers, past and present, Force Academy) until 2008, and is Registration is free but essential, such as: now visiting Professorial Fellow at the with registrations closing Wednesday University of Adelaide; 23 November. To register, email: • Catherine Baker, an Asian art historian [email protected] who currently writes education programs • Beth M Robertson, Manager of based around the collection at the Art Preservation Services, State Library of Story by Candy Gibson Gallery of South Australia; South Australia.

• Peggy Brock, currently Emeritus All History alumni – graduates, former Above: George Cockburn Henderson, a leader in History Professor at Edith Cowan University, students and staff – are invited to attend at the University of Adelaide Perth; this event, which will provide a foundation Photo courtesy of the University Archives

At the new Hub Central facility for University of Adelaide students, we’re featuring an exhibition of work by local artist, graduate and current Art History student of the University, Peter Drew. Called Learning Hub Heads, this project embraces and celebrates the student presence in the new Hub Central space through the contemporary art language of street art. It is a continuation of Peter Drew’s Faces of the University project across the North Terrace Campus. A nationally recognised artist, Drew is renowned for his Einstein-on-a-bicycle paste-ups, as well as the pink- Elizabeth Pascale cheeked digital faces which appear across Adelaide Art & Heritage Collections Offi cer and interstate. Peter’s work is also in the University of For more information or to register your Adelaide Visual Art Collection. interest in Learning Hub Heads, email [email protected] or call 08 8303 3086. Right: One of the many student Learning Hub Heads is on display at the University of faces featuring in the Learning Adelaide in Hub Central and will be developed further Learning Hub Heads is a collaborative project Hub Heads exhibition over the next year. It is free of charge and open to the between Peter Drew, Art & Heritage Collections, the public during Hub Central opening hours. Hub Central Project Team, and Baulderstone.

6 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Student on-campus space revolution

The University of Adelaide’s revolutionary new three-level $42 million learning hub for students was offi cially opened last month by the Federal Tertiary Education Minister, Senator the Hon. Chris Evans.

Situated in the heart of the University’s access to both face-to-face and online Hub Central covers 10,500sqm over three North Terrace Campus, ‘Hub Central’ brings services and support. They want informality, levels. Facilities include: 11 project rooms, together learning and social spaces with a place where they can heat their leftovers, 11 project booths, student lounges with student information services – creating a just hang out or catch up with friends both moveable furniture, two information service new meeting place and a “fi rst port of call” here and globally via Skype. areas, a student kitchen, two Skype booths for all students. “We’ve provided what our students told and a news bench, two training rooms, It blends these facilities with food and us they wanted, but we’ve also built in over 200 new computers, total wireless service retail outlets, merges seamlessly fl exibility so that this space can evolve with connectivity, print stations, lockers, the Maths with the Barr Smith Library and provides the requirements of future generations of Learning Centre, the Writing Centre and food new connections through to lecture theatres students. outlets. A convenience store and post offi ce and across campus. “Campus life is more than just getting will soon open. Creating Hub Central involved students a degree. Hub Central will be the natural Hub Central has been built with the and staff working together with more than focus for the University’s student communal support of the Federal Government’s Better 9000 hours of student involvement in both life.” Universities Renewal Funding ($15.5 million) the design and overall function of the Senator Evans said the facility would and the Teaching and Learning Capital Fund space. transform the on-campus experience for ($1.5m). “We want to provide the best on-campus students. The design was by architect fi rm HASSELL experience for students in Australia,” said “These facilities will help build university, and the construction by Baulderstone. Acting Vice-Chancellor and President Mr community and social networks within Paul Duldig. “That means meeting the the University of Adelaide, providing a Story by Robyn Mills requirements of students today – and that’s university experience for students that goes Above: Touring the Hub Central (from left): Acting Vice- vastly different from campus life 20 years beyond their studies,” he said. Chancellor and President Paul Duldig, Tertiary Education Minister Senator the Hon. Chris Evans, and Deputy ago or even fi ve years ago. Joining guests at the opening were Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Academic) Professor “Students want fl exible areas for informal northern suburbs children from The Smith Pascale Quester learning and group study, areas for social Family, representing the future generations Photo by Jennie Groom interaction, access at all hours to the of students. They were presented with Inset: Students using Hub Central latest technology and resources, and easy commemoration certifi cates. Photo by Sam Noonan, courtesy of HASSELL

Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Adelaidean 7 GRADUATIONS

A former University of Adelaide Chancellor shared the stage with more than 1000 graduating students at the recent mid-year graduation ceremonies.

For his distinguished service to the to the principles of equity and community, University of Adelaide, the Hon. John and his status locally, nationally and von Doussa AO QC was awarded the internationally proved invaluable to the University’s highest honour – the degree of University,” said the Vice-Chancellor and Doctor of the University (D Univ). President, Professor James McWha. Mr von Doussa was Chancellor of the During the graduation ceremonies, the University of Adelaide from July 2004 to University also presented Distinguished July 2010. He graduated in Law from the Alumni Awards to two notable graduates. University of Adelaide in 1962 and has had Mr Barry Grear AO (B Tech (Electrical a long and distinguished legal and judicial Engineering) 1967) is former President career, including being President of the of the World Federation of Engineering Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Organisations and Chairman of the State Commission from 2003 to 2008. Emergency Relief Fund. He received the He was presented his D Univ by the award in recognition of his leadership to current Chancellor, the Hon. Robert Hill, the engineering profession and signifi cant at one of the graduation ceremonies contribution to emergency services held in historic Bonython Hall from 26-28 organisations. September. Mr von Doussa was also a The Hon. Justice Catherine Branson QC guest speaker at the ceremony. (BA 1977, LLB 1970) is President of the Above: Distinguished Alumni Award winner the Hon. Justice Catherine “During his time as Chancellor, John’s Australian Human Rights Commission and Branson QC and Dr Alan Down strong inclusive leadership, commitment Human Rights Commissioner.

Above: Former Chancellor Hon. John von Doussa AO QC with family members

Left: Music teacher Esther Yu (2nd from right), pictured with family, graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education (Honours).

Right: Author Dylan Coleman (right), graduated with her PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Adelaide. Dylan was recently announced as the winner of the Arts Queensland David Unaipon Award. She is pictured here with supervisor Dr Sue Hosking from the Discipline of English & Creative Writing.

8 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Left: Mace bearer and Theoretical Physics MPhil graduate Manuel Carrillo Serrano (centre) with Chancellor the Hon. Robert Hill and Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha

Below: Djihadul Karimy from Indonesia received her Master of Laws from the University of Adelaide. Her husband is also a current student at the University.

Family heirloom to She received the award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Australian mark graduation law and human rights. The new graduates heard from a variety At her graduation ceremony on 28 September, of guest speakers, such as: Mr Darryl Mary Maxwell proudly wore an academic gown that has been in her family for 75 years. Gobbett, Chief Economist, Prescott Securities Ltd; Dr Michael Llewellyn- Mary, of Toorak Gardens, received her Bachelor Smith, urban management consultant and of Laws at the ceremony. She already holds a Adelaide City Council Area Councillor; PhD in politics from the University of Adelaide Professor Don Bursill, Chief Scientist and a Masters degree from Johns Hopkins for South Australia; and Associate University, and is a former president of the Professor Bassam Dally, Head of the Australian Institute for International Affairs in SA. School of Mechanical Engineering. She is also the widow of Professor George Morrison Maxwell (1924-2000) who founded the University of Adelaide’s Department of Paediatrics (originally called the Department of Child Health) in 1959. The academic gown Mary wore has heirloom status – her late mother, Patricia Whalen, wore it to class every day during her senior year in Boston, as was the custom in 1936. “I suppose when Mum was a 22-year-old, she didn’t imagine that three quarters of a century later a child of hers would be getting a law degree in Australia! You may have heard of late bloomers, but this is ridiculous,” Mary said. In 2000, when Mary enrolled in the Adelaide Law program, she received a letter from former South Australian Governor and former University of Adelaide Chancellor Dame Roma Mitchell AC, DBE, CVO, QC, that said: “I look forward to you being admitted to the Bar in 2003.” However, her study ended up taking a bit longer. “I dropped out for a while,” she said, “to campaign for a seat in the US Congress and to be a litigant in a suit against President Bush in 2006.” The lawsuit sought an injunction against the threatened bombing of Iran, on the grounds that such a deed would contravene US Congress’ “exclusive prerogative of declaring war”. Mary is the author of several books, the latest of which, Thou Shalt Not Kill Troy Davis, is about an American man convicted of and executed for the murder of a police offi cer. Next year, her granddaughter Shiva Motlagh is expected to wear the family academic gown when receiving her Bachelor degree in Linguistics from Adelaide. During their studies, both grandma and granddaughter undertook exchanges in Germany.

Above: University of Adelaide graduate Dr Mary Maxwell wearing her mother’s academic gown from the 1930s

Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Adelaidean 9 HEALTH SCIENCES Helping stroke patients who can’t swallow

A simple function that most of us take for granted – swallowing – is the focus of University of Adelaide research which could help thousands of stroke sufferers around the world.

In an Australian fi rst, researchers from harmony to get food and drink from the lips disease and Alzheimer’s disease, and even the University’s Robinson Institute are using down into the stomach. This activity places premature birth. magnetic stimulators to jump-start the a huge demand on the brain. “As strokes are the second biggest killer brain after a stroke and repair swallowing “When people have strokes, the parts of in Australia and a leading cause of disability functions, which break down in more than their brains that control the muscles in the worldwide, the cost to the health care system 50% of stroke patients. mouth and throat are often damaged and as well as quality of life of those affected is Speech pathologist Dr Sebastian we have to fi nd ways to reactivate these enormous,” Dr Doeltgen said. Doeltgen, who is part of the University’s regions. Using the magnetic stimulators we “Swallowing disorders form a large part Neuromotor Plasticity & Development can create electrical currents in the brain of these disabilities but no one ever thinks Research Group, has been awarded that stimulate the nerve cells, which we about swallowing. It is like breathing. We $300,000 in Federal Government funding to believe help control swallowing,” he said. take it for granted but imagine the impact on investigate revolutionary techniques to treat Dr Doeltgen’s group is the only one in your life if you couldn’t swallow anymore. It’s swallowing disorders. Australia – and one of only a handful in huge.” “About 60,000 people suffer strokes the world – using magnetic stimulation Dr Doeltgen’s research is being funded by each year in Australia alone, with more and brain exercises to develop new the National Health and Medical Research than 35,000 of these initially experiencing rehabilitation approaches for swallowing Council and is supported by the Robinson problems with swallowing. That is a huge disorders. Institute, the School of Paediatrics and part of the stroke population who have Swallowing problems are a very common Reproductive Health and the Faculty of diffi culty eating or drinking and may have to result of strokes, but they also often Health Sciences at the University of Adelaide. be fed through a tube,” he said. accompany a range of neuro-degenerative “There are up to 32 muscle pairs involved disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, Story by Candy Gibson in swallowing and all have to work in perfect Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s Photo by iStock

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10 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 ENGINEERING Sports lab a winner for students A new University of Adelaide laboratory for Australia’s fi rst sports engineering students has been opened within the School of Mechanical Engineering.

The state-of-the-art Sports Engineering billion a year. He said there was great • a 3D analysis system for modelling and Laboratory has specialised facilities for demand for research and development in simulating human movement; study and research into the techniques new sports technology, equipment design • an oxygen analysis system for measuring and technologies for boosting sports and performance. uptake and output during exercise; performance, injury prevention and “Sports Engineering combines the core • electromyography (EMG) analysis to rehabilitation. principles of mechanical engineering with measure muscle activity; and Member for Adelaide the Hon. Kate studies in biomechanics, anatomy, exercise Ellis joined elite athletes, sports industry physiology and sports materials,” he said. • a force platform for measuring ground representatives, engineering professionals “Our degree was designed to promote reaction forces (useful for assessing and University staff and students to offi cially a broader interest in engineering and running shoes); and much more. open the laboratory. is attracting a wider range of student, Student projects this year have included The Sports Engineering Laboratory including females, and particularly those assessment of lower-back pain through is home to students of the Bachelor of with keen interest in sport. 3D analysis; cycling mechanics to improve Engineering (Mechanical and Sports), “The Sports Engineering Laboratory is performance; and a mechanical cricket Australia’s fi rst sports engineering giving our students hands-on practical bowling machine. undergraduate degree. The fi rst graduates application of sports engineering and will complete their degree this year. providing our researchers with the facilities Story by Robyn Mills The Head of the School of Mechanical and equipment needed to best meet the Below: Australian women’s track endurance team Engineering, Associate Professor Bassam needs of the sports industry.” member Katherine Bates on a wattbike with students Dally, said sport was a huge and growing Facilities in the University’s Sports Arjun Palaniappan, Marek Carls and Stephen Jelfs global industry worth more than US$600 Engineering Laboratory include: Photo by Michael Mullan

Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Adelaidean 11 $100,000 win for cataract drug The Adelaide-based innovators behind commercialising a world-fi rst drug to delay cataracts from forming, and slow their growth, have won Australia’s richest business plan competition. The $100,000 University of Queensland (UQ) Business School’s Enterprize competition was won last month by Calpain Therapeutics, a company co-founded by Dr Tim Lovell and University of Adelaide Chemistry Professor Andrew Abell. As reported in the October 2011 issue of Adelaidean (“New drug offers hope against cataracts”), Calpain Therapeutics is pioneering a novel drug with application to the eye health of people around the world. Dr Lovell said the Calpain Therapeutics team was “thrilled to have won such a prestigious competition as Enterprize” – especially on what was World Sight Day, a global initiative to raise public awareness of blindness and vision impairment as major public health issues. Boost to education access For more details about Calpain Therapeutics and the drug, see the original story in The University of Adelaide and children’s charity The Smith the Adelaidean online at: http://j.mp/adelaidean48863 Family are working together to improve educational outcomes within South Australia’s disadvantaged communities. Remembering The new partnership is initially focusing parents, carers and professionals working on Adelaide’s far northern suburbs, with young children, with the focus on an acclaimed Elizabeth Vale and Smithfi eld Plains and the prevention, healthy eating and lifestyles. author wider Playford area. The Smith Family Chief Executive Offi cer University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor Dr Lisa O’Brien said: “This partnership will The life and achievements of acclaimed and President Professor James McWha engage more disadvantaged students and international author and University of Adelaide said the partnership would benefi t their families in a range of learning support graduate Hazel Rowley (pictured) will be disadvantaged children through the direct programs to help them build their capacity to commemorated at a special event in the Barr interaction and support of University of access and make the most of opportunities.” Smith Library on Saturday 19 November. Adelaide staff and students, and provide The partnership will: The School of Humanities will host a one-day new opportunities for them to connect with • support a Smith Family Learning for Life symposium in honour of the award-winning the University’s campuses and learning Worker within Elizabeth Vale and Smithfi eld biographer, who died in March aged 59. environment. Plains to help connect students to learning Head of Humanities Professor Jean Fornasiero “The University of Adelaide is proud opportunities, using University of Adelaide said the event would highlight the breadth of of its strong track record in attracting resources and academic and student Rowley’s work, touching on subjects close to and encouraging students from under- support; her heart: biography, existentialism, feminism represented schools and communities • deliver educational and support programs and social justice and freedom. with our 20-year-old pioneering Fairway from pre-school to adult education, Guest speakers will include internationally Scheme and other access and participation including learning clubs, mentoring, digital known biographers Brian Boyd and Mary projects,” said Professor James McWha. literacy, employment skills and health and Ann Caws and tributes will be paid to Rowley, “We’ve had a highly valued relationship wellbeing programs; with The Smith Family over a number of including a play reading inspired by one of her • connect disadvantaged children and years. This new agreement will help us great role models, Simone de Beauvoir. communities to the University of Adelaide’s have some real impact on disadvantaged Rowley earned global recognition for four campuses and learning environments communities, not only directly benefi ting outstanding biographies, as well as many through a range of programs and outreach children within these communities but also essays on social and literary questions. activities, and through access to University shining new light on the opportunities that resources and facilities and interaction She had a BA Honours in French and German become available through participation in with staff and students. Studies from the University of Adelaide, as well higher education.” as a PhD in French Studies. Under the agreement, second-year Story by Robyn Mills A comprehensive overview of her life was Oral Health students from the School of published in the Winter 2011 edition of Lumen Dentistry have been helping deliver the Above: At the signing of the agreement with The Smith and can be found online at: Food 4 Smiling program in the northern Family (from left): Vice-Chancellor and President Professor http://j.mp/lumen45501 suburbs, aimed at improving oral health of James McWha, University of Adelaide students and The children under fi ve. Smith Family Learning for Life scholarship participants To register for the Lives of Hazel Rowley Robert Howard and Melance Ndihokubwayo, Minister for event go to: http://hss.adelaide.edu.au/ Ten students have been working in pairs the Northern Suburbs the Hon. Michael O’Brien MP, and french/conferences to present good oral health messages to The Smith Family Chief Executive Offi cer Dr Lisa O’Brien

12 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 HEALTH SCIENCES Drug to combat problem drinking University of Adelaide researchers are developing a drug that may help combat alcoholism and other drinking problems.

The drug prevents the typical physical problem,” said Dr Hutchinson. “Over 76 by using drugs. They also studied the effect effects of drinking alcohol and may reduce million people are diagnosed with an of giving alcohol to mice that had been the incentive to drink. alcohol abuse disorder. genetically altered so that their immune Led by Dr Mark Hutchinson, ARC “This work has signifi cant implications receptors didn’t function. Research Fellow with the University’s for our understanding of the way alcohol “The results showed that blocking this School of Medical Sciences, the affects us, as it is both an immunological part of the immune system, either with the researchers found that behavioural and neuronal response. Such a shift in drug or genetically, reduced the effects of responses to alcohol stem from an immune mindset has signifi cant implications for alcohol,” Dr Hutchinson said. He believes response in the brain. identifying individuals who may have bad similar treatment could work in humans. “This immune response lies behind outcomes after consuming alcohol, and “We expect that medications targeting some of the well-known alcohol-related it could lead to a way of detecting people this specifi c receptor – toll-like receptor behavioural changes, such as diffi culty who are at greater risk of developing brain 4 – will prove benefi cial in treating alcohol controlling the muscles involved in walking damage after long-term drinking.” dependence and acute overdoses.” and talking,” said Dr Hutchinson. The research was published recently in Dr Hutchinson said clinical trials in The drug being developed could the British Journal of Pharmacology by PhD humans were only 18 months away with block this immune response and prevent student Yue Wu, supervisor Dr Hutchinson, the potential for medication to be available typical drunken behavior like slurring and and others. through prescription within three years. staggering. Laboratory mice were given a single “Alcohol is consumed annually by two shot of alcohol. The researchers studied Story by Robyn Mills billion people world-wide with its abuse the effect of blocking toll-like receptors, a posing a signifi cant health and social particular element of the immune system, Photo by iStock

quality clean fast

A U S T R A L I A N

S UPP LI ERS

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Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Adelaidean 13 VETERINARY SCIENCES

Adopted greyhounds make great companions for Roseworthy vet clinic Harry, Barrett and Lilly have been playing an important role in the Companion Animal Health Centre at the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy Campus.

They are Greyhound Adoption Program to their respiration rates. Many students “Our greyhounds are micro-chipped, (GAP) dogs – the fi rst such dogs adopted also enjoy social interaction with the dogs. vaccinated, desexed, treated for heartworm by the centre under an agreement with GAP. “Our students are rostered to socialise and intestinal worm and vet checked – GAP is an association that rescues with the dogs and are often seen walking that’s all done in-house at the Companion “retired” greyhounds (they may be as around the campus with them morning and Animal Health Centre. young as two years old) from racing night. When we fi rst asked the students “Greyhounds make great pets and careers. if they would like to be added to the require little exercise, contrary to belief. If GAP usually fosters out greyhounds to roster, we were inundated with requests,” anyone is interested in taking on a GAP homes after assessing their behaviour and Ms Whatling said. dog, please contact us at the Companion suitability for households. “In the future, our adopted greyhounds Animal Health Centre and we can arrange The Companion Animal Health Centre will also be used as emergency blood a visit.” has developed an agreement with GAP to donors in order to support animals with The University of Adelaide’s School house up to four greyhounds per semester blood loss, due to haemorrhage or of Animal & Veterinary Science runs and use them for non-invasive teaching. diseases. Greyhounds make great blood a Companion Animal Health Centre “In the time they’ve been with us, Harry, donors due to their easily recognised (for cats, dogs and other pets) at the Barrett and Lilly have quickly become clinic anatomy and stoic nature.” Roseworthy Campus. Open to the icons,” said the Centre’s Practice Manager, Ms Whatling said the Companion Animal public, the Companion Animal Health Diane Whatling. Health Centre was pleased to be able to Centre is a commercially run part of “Harry is a black-and-white inquisitive provide a good, temporary home for the the Veterinary Health Centre. greyhound with a larger-than-life nose; greyhounds, but they will all move on to For more information, please contact Barrett is a brindle, sensitive new age new homes. the Companion Animal Health greyhound; Lilly – the only female – is blue “At the end of each semester our current Centre: 08 8313 1999 or in colour and is a truly excitable girl. greyhounds will become available for [email protected] “They’re like our mascots in a way, but adoption. This is only fair – we don’t want they also serve an important purpose: the dogs to become institutionalised but Above: The fi rst three greyhounds adopted by the helping to train the next generation of vets.” to fi nd a caring home in the community for Companion Animal Health Centre (from left): For non-invasive teaching purposes, Vet the rest of their lives. After all, we want the Harry, Barrett and Lilly School students can check the greyhounds’ greyhounds to have long, healthy and happy femoral pulses or heart rates and also listen lives, which is why we’re working with GAP. Photo by Heidi Symons

14 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 ALUMNI Alumni PRIVILEGES

Adelaide alumni have access to a range of exclusive benefi ts, services and discounts – and each month we bring you the pick of the bunch for a featured special.

Special Offer of the Month: winedirect.com.au The Festive Season is nearly here. Need wine for celebrations at home, work or even as gifts? We have a fantastic offer – the Offi cial 2011 Royal Adelaide Wine Show Dozen! There are 3 trophies and 13 gold Among the many guests at the event medals in this mixed dozen. Truly were (above, from left) Kathleen Zakis, outstanding value with highlights Katherine Murray and John Murray, and including 2010 Bird in Hand Shiraz, (left) Barbara Kidman, Inese Medianik 2010 Wolf Blass Red Label Shiraz and Merry Wickes Grenache, 2011 Peter Lehmann Riesling and 2011 Chain of Ponds Black Thursday Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc. Delivery available to anywhere in Australia. Get in early to secure your dozen as the fi rst 100 orders will receive a copy of the 2011 Royal Adelaide Wine Show ‘Catalogue of Results’. A decade of support To secure your dozen, view more Wine Direct offers and the full alumni privileges package, go to: www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/ The University of Adelaide recently recognised a special privileges group of donors who have generously given to the annual Barr Smith Library Appeal every year since its inception in 2002.

Hosted last month in the Library’s iconic of valued support, guests received a Reading Room, 50 alumni and friends of commemorative letter opener etched with the University enjoyed a cocktail event the historic Barr Smith Library facade on the featuring entertainment by students from handle. A unique publication featuring the the Elder Conservatorium of Music and memories and favourite books of donors a display of books from the University’s who attended the event is now being Special Collections. arranged by the Library. The Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha, and University For information on ways in which you Librarian Ray Choate spoke on how the can support the University of Adelaide, donors’ valuable contributions ensure please contact the Development and the Library can continue to cater to an Alumni offi ce on 08 8303 5800, or email: ever-growing University community for [email protected] generations to come. As a thank you gift to show the Story by Connie Dutton University’s appreciation for their decade Photos by Joy Prior

Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011 Adelaidean 15 The University of Adelaide COMING EVENTS

Products making themselves

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the products we need and use every day were to make themselves? As all living things demonstrate, this is not just a pipedream. In fact, self-assembly is now being exploited in the manufacture of various products ranging from cosmetics to vaccines to solar panels. WHEN: Provided the fundamentals of ‘self-assembly’ are 5.30-6.30pm Tuesday 8 November understood and can be exploited, it could form WHERE: the basis of a new way to manufacture things that Napier 102 Lecture Theatre is competitive with the more traditional labour- North Terrace Campus intensive and even capital-intensive approaches. ADMISSION FREE, Researchers at the University of Adelaide are BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL seeking to make this a reality. self-assembly, highlight some examples of Register online: existing technologies built at least in part using adelaide.edu.au/researchtuesdays In this presentation Professor Mark Biggs self-assembly, and talk about the potential or call: 08 8303 3692 will provide an overview of the principles of of self-assembly into the future.

ARTS AND COMMUNITY EVENTS Lunchtimes at ELDERHALL Lives of Hazel Rowley Friends of the University of Adelaide Adelaide’s favourite lunchtime series of music A one-day symposium in honour of award-winning Library – Dorothy Driver concerts concludes its 20th birthday celebrations with biographer and University of Adelaide graduate Hazel Author Dorothy Driver has written and taught widely on two not-to-be-missed concerts. Rowley, who died in March aged 59. South African literature and currently teaches part-time Friday 11 November: John Davis Music Classical This event, which marks what would have been Hazel’s at the University of Adelaide. She will speak on issues Music Awards – rising stars from the Elder 60th Birthday, is sponsored by the Discipline of French such as the effects of apartheid on South African writers, Conservatorium of Music vie for $2400 in prizes. Studies, the JM Coetzee Centre for Creative Practice and and how South African literature has changed with the Friday 18 November: Special Lunchtimes at Elder the Faculty of the Humanities and Social Sciences of the demise of apartheid. Hall 20th Birthday Concert with the Australian University of Adelaide. When: 6.00pm for 6.30pm Thursday 24 November String Quartet. When: 9.00am-6.30pm (followed by a dinner at Where: Ira Raymond Room, Barr Smith Library, www.elderhall.adelaide.edu.au 7.30pm) Saturday 19 November North Terrace Campus When: 1.10pm Friday 11 and 18 November Where: Ira Raymond Room, Barr Smith Library, Cost: Free and open to the public. Where: Elder Hall, North Terrace Campus, North Terrace Campus Gold coin donation invited. University of Adelaide Cost: Free symposium; $60 for the dinner RSVP: by Tuesday 22 November to Robina Weir, Cost: Tickets $7, available at the door from (drinks included) phone 08 8303 4064 or email 12.30pm on the day of the concert Registration Essential. Please register online at: [email protected] http://hss.adelaide.edu.au/french/conferences

Carols on Campus Tuesday 20th December 7pm Bonython Hall Free community event – all welcome 11_531

16 Adelaidean Volume 20 | Number 7 | November 2011