The only constant in life is change

But is it in the right direction? FLINDERS UNIVERSITY IS How we’re supporting the COVID-19 Meeting the response

Flinders University’s research expertise is Challenges being applied in myriad ways in response to COVID-19, from the development of a promising vaccine candidate, to establishing I hope this edition of Encounter Australia’s first face mask testing facility, which magazine finds you safe and well. supports the domestic production of surgical masks and respirators. It has hardly been the 2020 that we would have anticipated or wished A new research initiative across our six Colleges for. With the terrible bushfires over has seen Flinders invest in 35 new COVID-19 the summer then the emergence of related projects, some in collaboration with COVID-19 and the subsequent global external partners, including: disruption, we all are having to think • Finding the link between bacterial differently about things we’d normally pathogens and predisposition to severe take for granted. COVID-19 infections. All sectors of our economy have been • Evaluating a home telemonitoring affected by the pandemic and universities are no exception. At Flinders program for patients with chronic Acknowledgement University we are fortunate to have recently completed a comprehensive conditions during isolation. restructure that has strengthened the organisation and made us better • Examining the lasting effect of the able to rise to the challenges presented by the pandemic. pandemic on youth sport. of Country We were the first university in the state to transition to teaching • Sewage monitoring as a means online and we did so to tremendous effect. Our students have been of detecting outbreaks. The University acknowledges the traditional owners of able to continue their studies, and their feedback on the quality and • Impact on illicit drug trafficking commitment of our staff has been exceptionally positive. We also and supply in Australia. the lands Flinders University teaches across (Arrernte, continued health and medical placements, which means our students • Investigating traumatic stressors. Boandik, Bungarla, Dagoman, Gunditjmara, Jawoyn, can expect to graduate on schedule and join the health workforce at this critical juncture. • Cultural understandings of COVID-19 Kaurna, Larrakia, Nauo, Ngarrindjeri, Peramangk, in remote Aboriginal communities. The pandemic has created economic hardship for many and some • Developing 3D printed facial guards to Ramindjeri, Wardaman, Warumungu, Wurundjeri, of our students have been particularly impacted, especially those reduce leak from P2/N95 respirators. away from the support of family, and those who may have lost the Yolgnu) and honour their Elders past and present. part-time work they relied on to make ends meet. The University has • Identifying SARS-CoV-2 virally encoded microRNAs as a novel diagnostic tool created a support scholarship for students in need, and this has been for COVID-19. augmented by the exceptional generosity of staff and alumni who have donated to the Matthew Flinders Scholarship Fund. I would like to Flinders University is also contributing to express my warmest thanks to the Flinders community for supporting the global COVID-19 Core Outcome Set our students to be able to continue to focus on their studies during Project for trials in people with confirmed this unprecedented time. and suspected COVID-19. Most of our staff were working from home during the crisis, but others have been regularly on campus either to support our students or to continue their important research work, including a range of projects focused on the pandemic and its consequences. Our staff are now back on campus and we are gradually returning to laboratory and practical classes, and other face-to-face activities where it is safe to do so. Our core values of courage, innovation, integrity and excellence have never been more pronounced than at this time, and I congratulate our community for its fortitude, resilience and commitment.

Professor Colin J Stirling President and Vice-Chancellor

Photo: Getty Thank you TO OUR FLINDERS FAMILY 06 Dr Olivia Samardzic PSM

It’s often said that it’s during As a way to still celebrate this special milestone, we Associate Professor 08 Simone Ulalka Tur 22 Professor Garry Stewart times of crisis that people created a fun campaign called VC & ME, where those who Contents truly shine. This is especially missed their ceremony could have the Vice-Chancellor true of our incredible alumni, photoshopped into their ‘graduation’ photo. We enjoyed the whose resilience and results – you can view them here flinders.edu.au/vc-me. 06 08 10 resourcefulness are helping Inspiring the Next Generation Creative Thinking Underpins The Good Oil communities through the To stay connected with you all during the pandemic, of Scientists Indigenous Advancement Associate Professor Justin Chalker COVID-19 pandemic. we developed new online resources, including our BRAVE Dr Olivia Samardzic PSM Associate Professor Simone Ulalka Tur Around the world, our Research & Innovation series, lunchtime music concerts, graduates are on the Flinders University Museum of Art exhibitions, and Gillian frontline – treating and Dooley’s presentation Matthew Flinders: Life Writer 12 14 16 caring for those unwell, teaching our children in changeable – see youtube.com/flindersuniversity for the recordings. Expert on a Celebrating the Year of the Opinion: The Only Constant situations – along with those who have carried on in food The inaugural Uncle Lewis Yarluburka O’Brien public lecture Humanitarian Mission Nurse and Midwife in Life is Change production, emergency services, social work and many was also presented online, as was the launch of Flinders Gosia Hill Kate Taylor and Kevin Hardy Professor Corey J A Bradshaw other areas of essential work. University’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) – see Thank you to our Flinders family of alumni, staff and friends flinders.edu.au/rap. The plan was developed through 18 20 22 who demonstrated their firm commitment to social justice extensive and deep consultations involving staff, students, Mapping a New Pathway Recognising our Assembling a Different through their generous and inspiring response to our call to alumni and members of First Nations communities, from support students who are vulnerable during this difficult time. for our Veterans Extraordinary Graduates Artistic Future across South Australia and the Northern Territory. Trevor Morris 2019 Flinders University Alumni Awards Professor Garry Stewart Your support has enabled 1,500 students pay their essential living costs of food, bills and rent. See pages 28 and 29 for Finally, thank you to our graduates, staff and the wider more details on the Matthew Flinders Scholarship. Flinders family for your generosity and support during what 24 26 28 Social distancing measures impacted our April graduation has been a difficult 2020. Please stay safe. Why do men use violence Bequest for Asbestos Matthew Flinders Scholarship ceremonies – one of my favourite occasions at Flinders. Crucial support for our students in relationships? Disease Research As event MC, it is a privilege to see the sense of pride Professor Sarah Wendt Professor Doug Henderson AO and joy (and sometimes relief!) as each graduand crosses the stage to receive their testamur. So, it was a personal 32 34 35 disappointment when it became necessary to cancel Callista Thillou the ceremonies. Executive Director, Alumni & Advancement Flinders Graduates Recognising a Good Drop A Gum Nut in a Zoo of Trees Have a Story to Tell New wine and tourism degree Dr Dean Nicolle OAM

36 38 Launching Careers Waking up tired and grumpy? City of Mitcham’s graduate program There’s help on hand at Flinders

Editorial enquiries: Encounter magazine is published by the Office of Communication Alumni & Advancement and Engagement, Flinders University. Flinders University Editor: Lynda Allen Has a nurse or midwife impacted Writers: Lynda Allen, Megan Andrews, Tania Bawden, Yaz Dedovic, Melissa Keogh, [email protected] Amelia Mitchell, David Sly, Karen Smart your life, or the life of a loved one? +61 8 8201 7969 Production: Kim Pryor Design: Esther Johnson Tell us about your meaningful moment so that we Disclaimer: Views expressed in Encounter magazine are those of the authors and persons quoted and are Photography: Brenton Edwards (unless indicated) can share the love for nurses and midwives around not necessarily those of the Office of Communication Cover: Regrowth after Australian bushfires. Photo: Getty and Engagement at Flinders University. the world, especially our Flinders graduates. Printed in South Australia by Flinders Press using soy-based inks on Sovereign Silk paper which includes a mix of recycled Copyright © 2020 Flinders University content and content from suppliers who practice responsible forestry techniques. Using chlorine-free pulps, the paper is Celebrating 200 years since the CRICOS 00114A manufactured to strict regulations in Australian paper mills with international standards on low environmental impact. flinders.edu.au/sharethelove birth of Florence Nightingale An innovative application of physics for the A 20-year longitudinal study showed that almost 80% Australian Defence Force and the creation of the of respondents either continued in a STEM field or SA Space School have seen Dr Olivia Samardzic chose STEM subjects due to their positive experiences PSM inspire the next generation of scientists. at the Space School. Born in Novi Sad in the former Yugoslavia, ‘Knowing that I have been able to steer younger Dr Samardzic (BSc(Hons) ’90, PhD(SE) ’96) people to what I know to be a great and fulfilling career came to Australia with her family when she is my greatest accomplishment,’ says Dr Samardzic. was just three years of age. ‘The mark of true leadership is to inspire more people The value of education was instilled in her from an to do great things.’ early age by her father (a shoemaker) and mother Dr Samardzic’s leadership roles have included Co- (a seamstress) and, from the age of 10, Dr Samardzic Director of the Centre for Australian Space Education, wanted to be a physicist. chairing the SA Branch of the Australian Institute of ‘I knew I wanted to study physics, so it was an easy Physics, sitting on the Flinders University Science choice to study at Flinders – the top university for Industry Advisory Board, and helping to develop physics in the state at the time,’ says Dr Samardzic. the national physics strategy while on the National Soon after graduating, Dr Samardzic joined the Executive of the Australian Institute of Physics. She Defence, Science and Technology Group at the also delivered a keynote address to around 120 Australian Department of Defence, where she is Year 9 girls at the annual Flinders University STEM now a Research Leader in the Cyber and Electronic Enrichment Academy Conference Breakfast last year. Warfare Division. Her achievements were recognised in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours with a Public Service ‘I knew I wanted to study physics, so it Medal. She also recalls with fondness being a finalist was an easy choice to study at Flinders...’ in the Unsung Heroes award during National Science Week in 2006. She didn’t win but had three young women at the ceremony tell her they had pursued Dr Samardzic worked on the development of the STEM studies after hearing her speak previously Laser Optical Countermeasure System (LOCS), about the thrill of pursuing a career in science. which will be used by military personnel to detect and defeat threats. She is also responsible for the Eye-safe Attention Gaining Laser Emitter (EAGLE), ‘Knowing that I have been able to steer a unique and DST patented system developed to younger people to what I know to be a reduce civilian casualties by gaining their attention 2019 Convocation Medallist great and fulfilling career is my greatest when they approach military or police checkpoints. Dr Olivia Samardzic PSM accomplishment.’ Dr Samardzic is also devoted to inspiring the next generation of scientists. ‘That was better than any award,’ she says. ‘It showed Noticing a sharp decline in the number of students that I helped them get to a place where they could taking up physics, she recalled that her fascination enjoy an enriching career. with space inspired her own scientific studies. In 1997 ‘My message is – don't give up, science is for she co-founded the South Australian Space School everybody.’ – a strategy that has seen a significant increase in the number of students pursuing studies in science, Inspiring the technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Next Generation

2019 Convocation Medallist of Scientists Dr Olivia Samardzic PSM was awarded a 2019 Flinders University Convocation Medal for her outstanding contribution to the national and international science, technology, engineering and mathematics community. In particular, for her significant service to science and technology in 2019 Flinders University Convocation Medallist support of the Australian Defence Force. Dr Olivia Samardzic PSM flinders.edu.au/alumni-awards

6 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter ALUMNI AWARDS 7 CREATIVE THINKING UNDERPINS Indigenous Advancement New Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous)

Flinders graduate Associate Professor Simone The University’s aspirations for Indigenous advancement Ulalka Tur’s background in arts research extend well beyond its campuses, and Associate and Indigenous education underpins her Professor Tur says strengthening external connections transformative role as Flinders University’s is essential for a community-oriented approach. inaugural Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous). ‘It was important to include perspectives and knowledges In February 2020, Associate Professor Simone Ulalka Tur of the broader Indigenous community,’ she says. (MEdSt ’02, PhD(EHLT) ’18), from the Yankunytjatjara community in north-west South Australia, was appointed As part of the RAP consultation, Associate Professor to the new role, following six months acting in the position, Tur visited Arrernte traditional owners around Alice shared with colleague Dr Ali Gumillya Baker (MA(EHLT) Springs with Dr Baker, senior lecturer and convenor of (Cwk) ’02, PhD(EHLT) ’18), from the Mirning community. the Indigenous Studies and Australian Studies majors at Flinders University, and Dr Maree Meredith (PhD(HlthSc) Responsible for enhancing respect for Indigenous ’18), Acting Director of the University’s Poche Centre knowledges and advancing Indigenous outcomes across for Indigenous Health. education, research, employment and wellbeing, she also guides the Yunggorendi Student Engagement – a Flinders ‘It’s about building relationships, engaging in conversations University hub that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait about advancing Indigenous opportunities through Pro Vice-Chancellor Islander students to succeed. education.’ (Indigenous) Associate Professor This extends to the exciting new initiative of employing Key priorities this year include overseeing new Simone Ulalka Tur Indigenous governance structures at Flinders and the Elders on campus. implementation of an enormous project – the University’s ‘Through the leadership of The Poche Centre for first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Indigenous Health and Flinders College of Medicine This May saw the finalisation of the RAP – the result of and Public Health, Flinders Northern Territory recently an extensive consultation phase during 2019 that was appointed two new Elders on Campus, Mr Richard Fejo Completing her PhD at Flinders, Associate Professor Tur ‘It will no doubt be a challenge, but I think it’s important enthusiastically embraced by staff, students and alumni and Dr Pat Miller AO. We also plan to have an Elder has been a member of staff since 1998, including Director to maintain my research and arts practice as part of this across South Australia and the Northern Territory. on Campus at Bedford Park this year,’ says Associate of Yunggorendi for four years. role,’ she says. Professor Tur. ‘The biggest change for me with this new role is the broader ‘This will require a collective effort, as many ‘I see creative arts and creative thinking as integral to The Elders will contribute to the new Indigenous engagement, which requires an outward-looking perspective.’ implementing strategies that relate to Indigenous advancement.’ employees will have new responsibilities to governance structures and help shape fresh initiatives, deliver the outcomes.’ while enhancing Indigenous perspectives, staff ‘It was important to include perspectives recruitment and student support. and knowledges of the broader Indigenous It contains an extensive set of goals and deliverables to ‘This rich community involvement is key to supporting our community.’ foster deeper engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Indigenous engagement across all areas, and can inform Islander students and staff, but Associate Professor Tur further approaches on how we engage in research, meet Flinders University's Innovate RAP says that’s only the beginning. To achieve this, she is drawing on her arts knowledge and the needs of communities and engage ethically as a using performance to convey complex ideas and Indigenous The Reconciliation Action Plan aims to enhance ‘The plan will need a strong and focused process to university,’ says Associate Professor Tur. views. As part of a collective of four female Aboriginal respect for Indigenous knowledges and advance Indigenous outcomes across education, research, be implemented, and will build on the commitment ‘It highlighted the significance of Indigenous languages, academics in The Unbound Collective, Associate Professor employment and wellbeing at Flinders University. and momentum of students and staff throughout its a view which also came across strongly in internal Tur creatively enacts critical responses to colonial archives. development. This will require a collective effort, as many discussions.’ The sought-after group has performed nationally, including flinders.edu.au/RAP employees will have new responsibilities to deliver the the launch of The National 2019: New Australian Art outcomes,’ she says. exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

8 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter UNIVERSITY 9 Associate Professor Justin Chalker is planning Areas like the Amazon Basin in Ecuador and Niger Delta in to minimise the damage oil spills are having on Nigeria are economically dependent on the oil industry but our oceans through the use of a newly created, are operating without the same access to adequate oil spill rubber-like material. solutions. As a result, the environmental impacts on these oil-bearing areas is disproportionate to wealthier oil drilling Ocean oil spills are an inherent risk in extracting oil areas. In Nigeria, the UN has estimated that it will take more from the sea floor and transporting it around the world, than 30 years to reverse the environmental impacts from THE yet ocean oil mining occurs every day. If there is a spill, their oil spills. clearing the oil from the water is no easy task. While the clean-up takes place – usually over weeks, months or ‘My broadest and most ambitious goal is to use synthetic Could waste sometimes not at all – the oil has time to cause decades chemistry to improve the lives of those who don’t have of irreversible damage to the ocean and marine life, the same access to resources to have a fair go in tackling provide a solution and to the health of local communities. environmental disasters,’ says Associate Professor Chalker. for water pollution? And so, when a synthetic chemist stands up and suggests ‘By focusing on inexpensive materials to capture pollution, GOOD pouring more oil, intentionally, into the ocean to remedy the we can ensure clean air, water and food for everyone in initial spill, it is understandably met with questions. the world – not just those in wealthy nations.’ Luckily, Associate Professor Justin Chalker likes questions: In February 2020, a formal agreement between the ‘Questions set you on a hunt for answers.’ Chalker Research Lab and Clean Earth Technologies assigned a suite of patents to the Singapore-based company to commercialise the new polysulfide material What sets this work apart is their focus on for global markets. The first manufacturing facility is set OIL using waste products to create new materials. to be established in South Australia. Professor Robert Saint, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) A synthetic chemist and researcher, Associate Professor at Flinders, says, ‘I can think of no better example than Chalker completed his PhD in Organic Chemistry at the the work of the Chalker laboratory in turning outstanding University of Oxford in the UK. He is a Research Leader for research into new resources that can be used to deliver the Flinders University Institute for Nanoscale Science and a cleaner world.’ Technology, and runs the Chalker Research Lab from Flinders. Associate Professor Chalker has also discovered that the Associate Professor Chalker believes chemists are in a same sulphur-canola oil polymer can extract mercury from unique position to solve many of the biggest problems polluted soil, water and air. Mercury poisoning occurs facing the environment. And it is exactly these problems his primarily in artisan and small-scale gold mining in some team of researchers are focused on. Their work is to create of the world’s poorest countries and affects more than new molecules and materials, and to bring new matter into 15 million people. existence and then put it to use. In the truest sense, they are looking for answers in the unknown. ‘We’re always at the cusp of a new discovery What sets this work apart is their focus on using waste or technology that can change the way we products to create new materials. think and live...’ ‘The polymer we’ve invented is a material made from sulphur, a by-product of the petroleum industry, and canola oil. It’s a Other threats to clean air and water, such as PFAS pollution renewable resource,’ he says. ‘By simply reacting these two (residue from fire-fighting foam) and the mounting impacts materials together, it thickens and turns into a brown rubber of plastic pollution, are also being investigated. and we get an entirely new substance – one that we found can be used to clean up oil spills.’ With 91% of plastic not being recycled, most will end up in landfill or the ocean. The new polymer acts like a sponge that floats and quickly absorbs unwanted oil. Importantly, it returns clean water to Plastic was masterminded by chemistry so Associate the sea and leaves only the crude oil on the polymer. The oil Professor Chalker thinks chemists should be at the forefront can later be drained from the polymer and safely disposed of efforts to make amends. of, and the polymer can be used again. ‘The chemistry that was used to make plastic is almost too good, because it’s so stable it doesn’t break down and now ‘By focusing on inexpensive materials to plastic is wreaking havoc on the environment.’ capture pollution, we can ensure clean air, water His team is now working towards creating new materials and food for everyone in the world – not just that are biodegradable – or more able to be recycled – made those in wealthy nations.’ from waste or sustainable resources, of course. ‘We’re always at the cusp of a new discovery or technology Associate Professor Creating affordable and accessible solutions is an important that can change the way we think and live, and that’s Justin Chalker consideration for Associate Professor Chalker – a significant something that we want to be at the forefront of. We want benefit of waste material is that it’s cheap and readily available. to be involved in these changes.’

10 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter RESEARCH 11 Gosia Hill at the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan with UNHCR Education Associate Dr Awad Al-Shiekh and a camp UNOPS officer. Expert on a Humanitarian Mission Gosia Hill is making a difference

amid political turmoil Photo supplied

From post-communist Central and Eastern Europe, Gosia’s work with the UNHCR team included anti-violence ‘It’s so exciting to hear the news of each refugee who In May, Gosia began work with UNICEF Suva (Fiji) as part of Russia, Ukraine, South Africa and the Middle East, campaigns, mechanisms for reporting violence, training for completes a degree either in Jordan or another host the Australian Government's humanitarian civilian deployment Gosia Hill has drawn on her ability to network, carers and teachers in child protection, and developing country through this scholarship.’ program, Australia Assists. collaborate and build mutual trust, to make a support groups. The impact of political turmoil has been with Gosia for difference in complex political environments. much of her life. ‘Together we will work on making their According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, ‘These kinds of initiatives improve and In 1980, as a result of political unrest and martial law in her education systems better prepared for the Syrian Civil War is the second deadliest war of transform the lives of refugees by opening homeland of Poland, Gosia migrated to Australia. Through a disasters and emergency situations that the 21st century, resulting in over half a million deaths, up safer environments and more accessible communication black-out in Poland she couldn’t access the can greatly disrupt the ability to learn.’ including more than 20,000 children, since March 2011. education opportunities.’ papers she needed to apply for university. However, through a chance meeting with the Flinders University Registrar, Nine years on, the conflict continues and has displaced and the demonstration of her high level of knowledge from ‘My work will involve a great deal of engagement with local around 12 million Syrians and civilians from neighbouring She was involved in an education awareness campaign for her previous studies in Poland, she was accepted into a communities, agencies and governments in the Pacific. countries, and has caused substantial damage and the parents of children with a disability, and the rollout of Bachelor of Arts. Together we will work on making their education systems destruction to hospitals and schools throughout the country. special education programs in community centres. She also better prepared for disasters and emergency situations Proving her apt knowledge and abilities, before she had In her role with the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR, worked on community consultations to inform the content that can greatly disrupt the ability to learn,’ says Gosia. for the Google-funded Learning Hubs for Youth, created to even graduated Gosia was offered a position with the Flinders University graduate Gosia Hill (BA ’83, BSocAdmin ‘I believe in the social exchange theory of reciprocity – the support children’s education in Jordan. federal Department of Immigration based in Adelaide. ’87) has seen the devastating impact of the war firsthand. success of our UNICEF work and Australia’s assistance The most difficult being the remote refugee camps in Jordan ‘These kinds of initiatives improve and transform the lives ‘I am grateful to Flinders for giving me a chance to earn in the Pacific very much depends on good networking, my two degrees and help me start over as a new immigrant that provide shelter to displaced people from Syria, Iraq, of refugees by opening up safer environments and more collaboration and mutual trust.’ to Australia,’ says Gosia. Yemen, Somalia and Sudan. accessible education opportunities,’ says Gosia. From 2004 to 2008 Gosia served as Australia’s Senior ‘I witnessed the displacement and terrible living conditions With her UNHCR colleagues she helped to secure funding Trade Commissioner in Central and South Eastern Europe, of hundreds of thousands of people, especially children, from international donors to support successful education with international trade and investment responsibility for who live for many years in remote refugee camps in Jordan programs including the UNHCR’s higher education 17 countries. such as Azraq and Zaatari,’ says Gosia, who worked on scholarship program. Join the RedR Humanitarian Roster developing education and protection interventions for ‘It was a very exciting time with several former Eastern Bloc refugees in Jordan for six months during 2018. ‘The program was in danger of reducing scholarship places countries entering the European Union,’ she says. ‘I achieved If you are interested in becoming a humanitarian and in Jordan from over 150 to just ten per year. We worked several important trade and investment deals, while avoiding want to apply your skills and expertise before, during ‘At the camps and their surrounding communities, tirelessly with the relevant stakeholders, especially the scams and fraudulent activities.’ or after a disaster or crisis, visit the RedR Australia where over 70,000 refugee children are not in school, German mission, not to cut the program, and thankfully website to find out more about how you can join Gosia is now the Honorary Consul for Poland in the we helped to improve the coordination and resourcing it’s still continuing today! the humanitarian expert roster. of education programs, with a focus on girls, youth South Australian Consular Corps and, through RedR and children with disability.’ Australia, she is on standby as ‘Expert on Mission’ redr.org.au for international humanitarian response missions with United Nations agencies.

12 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter OUR ALUMNI 13 CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF THE Nurse & Midwife

When the World Health Organisation declared 2020 the Year of the Nurse and Midwife, to celebrate Florence Nightingale’s birth 200 years ago, who would have known a pandemic would throw a spotlight on nurses around the world? COVID-19 has highlighted the incredible contribution nurses and midwives make to the health of the community through their ongoing work of caring, infection control and evidence- based practice. In 1975 Flinders University began the first tertiary nursing course in South Australia. This year we celebrate more than 16,600 nurse and midwife graduates who are now advancing health care around the globe. Read the stories of two Flinders graduates who illustrate how brave, bold and brilliant nurses and midwives are. Palliative Care Nurse Kevin Hardy

Midwife Kate Taylor The miracle of birth in Cambodia never fades for Kate SA’s first private palliative care nurse After losing three litres of blood following the birth ‘On the way back to Australia I was having this internal Pioneer of the Calvary Palliative Home Care Service, Establishing the Calvary Palliative Home Care Service of her first child, Kate Taylor (GradCertClinEd ’20) argument with myself that somebody had to do something. Kevin Hardy (BNg (PreReg) ’99, MNg (NPrac) ’15) is in September 2018, Kevin is now involved in all levels of became aware of how lucky she was to be living in a By the time the plane landed I knew that that somebody the first palliative care nurse practitioner in Adelaide the service. country with access to quality maternal health care. was going to be me.’ to work within the private hospital system. ‘It really alerted me to the fact that midwives, and their After three years of study while raising three young children, Kevin believes having a love for people is the key to a ‘I say nursing chose me rather than me practice, actually save lives and it’s more than just cuddling Kate became a qualified midwife. Since 2007, and with the successful life as a nurse. He considers it a privilege to babies.’ help of hundreds of maternal health specialists from Australia, choosing nursing.’ help his patients and their families navigate the challenging she has travelled back to Cambodia to deliver training to more Two more children and two university degrees on, Kate is a end-of-life period. than 4,000 midwives, doctors and traditional birth attendants ‘We do everything from start to finish – admissions, registered midwife, working in clinical practice and lecturing through her maternal health organisation The 2H Project. ‘You meet some incredible people across all spectrums of consulting, symptom management, hands-on care, end-of- in midwifery at Flinders University’s College of Nursing and life – from battlers to the wealthy – just some really tough life care, medication management – all through one service, Health Sciences. She is currently completing her Master of and resilient people,’ he says. without the need to refer out to other agencies or services,’ Clinical Education at Flinders. ‘...somebody had to do something...I knew that says Kevin. But it’s her humanitarian pursuits that are truly inspiring. that somebody was going to be me.’ A love for people is the key to a successful life Previously, patients at the private hospital nearing their Before she began studying at university Kate felt she needed end-of-life period would be referred to the public palliative to give back to the world and decided to travel to Cambodia ‘The whole labour experience can be horrifically painful but as a nurse. care services. to volunteer on a floating medical clinic. She was assigned it’s such a worthwhile journey. And then to be with the new to maternal care. parents and play a part in that joy is an absolute honour. It’s The experience of looking after his sick father, who died ‘I think that’s the point of difference. You get that continuity those real and raw emotions that make midwifery amazing.’ at the age of 61, was life-changing. At the age of 36, Kevin, of care. Even if people come in and out of Calvary Hospital With no formal midwifery training, she had only personal who had not completed high school, began a nursing degree or Mary Potter Hospice, they will see some familiar faces. experience to lean on and quickly learnt that childbirth During the COVID-19 crisis, Kate has fundraised to send at Flinders University. And then as soon as they get home, we provide their for women in low-resourced countries is very different personal protective equipment such as gloves and hand home support.’ to back at home. sanitiser to support medical workers in Cambodia. ‘I say nursing chose me rather than me choosing nursing.’

‘I saw a woman with tears rolling down her face, who said After working in palliative care for almost two decades, Photo courtesy Calvary Health Care that her mother had died from giving birth to her and that Photo courtesy The 2H Project Kevin returned to Flinders to complete his Master of Nursing she herself was now petrified. It haunts me to this very day. the2hproject.com (Nurse Practitioner) in 2015.

14 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter OUR ALUMNI 15 As an ecologist concerned with how life changes Since colonisation, we have been responsible for the loss OPINION and adapts to the vagaries of climate and pervasive of nearly 40% of the continent’s forests, and much of the biological shuffling, ‘constant change’ is more remainder is too fragmented to provide sufficient shelter than just a mantra — it is, in fact, the mathematical to many forest-dependent species. foundation of our entire discipline. Worse still is the rising frequency and severity of bushfires But if change is inevitable, how can we ensure it is in the in an already (sun)burnt country. right direction? Global warming is changing Australia’s bushfire susceptibility, Take climate change for example. Since the Earth first driving longer burning seasons, and fewer opportunities for The only formed it has experienced abrupt climate shifts many times, controlled burning during cooler, wetter periods. both to the detriment of most species in existence at any The catastrophic bushfires that recently ravaged Australia are given time, and to the advantage of those species evolving still an open wound, with many threatened species pushed from the ashes. even closer to extinction. For more than 3.5 billion years, species have evolved The sad reality is that the incidence and severity of these constant in and gone extinct, such that more than 99% of all species events will increase even more for the foreseeable future. that have ever existed are now confined, permanently, to the vaults of the past. Our poor water management (Australians use water at six times the global average rate per capita despite living in While extinctions occur all the time, the rates are not the world’s driest inhabited continent), lack of a meaningful life is change constant. We can now say with reasonable certainty that pathway to emissions reductions, and broken legislation for current global extinction rates equal or even exceed those the protection of our remaining ecosystems, mean that our that occurred during the previous five mass extinction events. extinction crisis has only just begun. Don’t believe me? Here are some salient observations that might convince you otherwise. The catastrophic bushfires that recently But is it in the right direction? The biomass of vegetation on land across the globe has ravaged Australia are still an open wound, halved over human history, with a corresponding loss of more with many threatened species pushed even than 20% of its original biodiversity. closer to extinction. PROFESSOR COREY J A BRADSHAW This means that more than 70% of the Earth’s land surface has been altered by humans. Matthew Flinders Fellow in Global Ecology What can we do? This has resulted in over 700 vertebrate and nearly 600 plant We can demand a more responsible government and extinctions recorded since the 16th century, and many more tougher legislation to protect our native plants and animals. species have likely gone extinct unnoticed. More worryingly, massive population declines that are the precursors to We can insist on development that does not require extinction have also occurred worldwide — since 1970, additional deforestation, and we can restore great tracks more than 60% of all land-based vertebrate individuals of previously stripped land. have disappeared. We can implement a broad network of clean-energy technologies to transition our emissions-heavy economy More than 70% of the Earth’s land surface has toward one with a low footprint, and we can invest in smarter, been altered by humans. low-water agriculture. On a community level, during pandemic restrictions we This means that the total global biomass of wild animals have been forced to re-think how and where we work, how today is less than one quarter of what it was when human our food is grown and distributed, and how cities can support civilisation began. this transition – all aspects that can reduce the impact of climate change. One scary statistic is that of the estimated 0.17 gigatonnes of biomass of land-based vertebrate species on Earth today, only 5% is represented by wild mammals, birds, reptiles and We can demand a more responsible amphibians – the rest is made up of livestock (59%) and government and tougher legislation to protect living human beings (36%). our native plants and animals. Professor Corey J A Bradshaw Australia is unfortunately not immune to these global trends, with at least 100 vertebrate extinctions recorded here since Yes, change is inevitable, and climates have always Professor Bradshaw is a Matthew Flinders Fellow in Global Europeans first arrived, giving us the ignominious title of changed, but it is indisputable that human society is now Ecology in the College of Science and Engineering at Flinders the world’s leading nation in mammal extinctions. responsible for one of the greatest climate changes Earth University. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of South Australia, has experienced for millions of years. and Modelling Node Leader in the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and ...giving us the ignominious title of the world's For too long we have ignored the pleas of scientists to mend Heritage. He is Co-Head of the Ecology Section for Faculty leading nation in mammal extinctions. our ways. Opinions, sits on the Australian Research Council College We ignore these warnings at our peril. of Experts, and is recipient of the Verco Medal (Royal Society While these extinctions have been primarily the result of of South Australia) and Australian Ecology Research Award introduced predators like cats and foxes, we have also (Ecological Society of Australia). irreparably damaged Australia’s forests.

Photo: Getty OPINION 17 MAPPING A NEW PATHWAY FOR OUR VETERANS A former soldier transitions to law

Meet 30-year-old Trevor Morris, a former soldier who Department of Veterans’ Affairs, announced by Minister for has taken the first step in his journey to becoming a Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester during a visit to the Bedford lawyer through Flinders University’s Military Academic Park campus early last year. Recognising the success and Flinders Military Academic Pathway Program. value of the program to veterans, the University has committed Pathway Program to continuing the program. Trevor dreams of one day sitting on a court bench but not so Prior service in the Australian Defence long ago he was based in the Middle East as a member of The MAPP includes a project officer to run a support program Force is a pathway to a Flinders University the Australian Defence Force. and peer group that can provide relevant and integral degree. MAPP is open to Australian Defence transition, study and lifestyle support for younger veterans, Force veterans, including personnel still He spent five years as a rifleman in 7RAR and patrol with access to expertise in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder serving, those in the process of transition, commander in the 7th Battalion of the Royal Australian (PTSD), mental health, and drug and alcohol support. and for people who have already left the Regiment. He was then tasked with being a ‘Guardian Angel’ military. The next intake in October 2020 – providing force protection to Australian soldiers in Iraq – will be available online. before deciding his next pursuit would be a legal career. ‘Veterans bring with them a range of skills flinders.edu.au/study/pathways/ and knowledge that are incredibly valuable ‘I wanted a better career with improved options for both military-veterans my lifestyle and income,’ says Trevor. ‘I’m aware that having to society...’ a degree, or any sort of education, is the best way to progress and transition from a military career.’ Trevor says the short timeframe of MAPP is particularly Last year, 26 military veterans, including Trevor, embarked appealing. ‘Soldiers transitioning out of Defence and looking at on Flinders University’s Military Academic Pathway Program attending a foundation course for six months is something they (MAPP) – a free, four-week intensive program available dread. A program tailored for veterans that is just four weeks exclusively for military personnel seeking to qualify for a long is a very effective strategy in appealing to veterans.’ wide range of Flinders University undergraduate degrees. Pro Vice-Chancellor, Learning and Teaching Innovation, Professor Deborah West (MSW ’96, PhD(SS) ’03) says ‘...having a degree, or any sort of education, Flinders University is committed to supporting members is the best way to progress and transition of the defence community transitioning out of service and exploring their education pathways. from a military career.’ ‘The Military Academic Pathway Program is designed specifically for Defence members and veterans to support The free program is specifically designed to assist military them to succeed in their academic studies. personnel transition successfully into university, both academically and socially. After completing the program ‘Veterans bring with them a range of skills and knowledge that veterans can apply to a range of undergraduate degrees are incredibly valuable to society. We want to ensure these are at Flinders. recognised and that members can use them to build the next stage of their educational and career development.’ Covering a wide range of academic skills development, such as writing and research, the program also highlights Flinders’ Trevor is now in his first year of a Bachelor of Law and Society, online learning tools, engagement with support services, a degree focused on developing a new generation of legal linking with peer mentoring, and academic advocacy. practitioners with tech-savvy skills. ‘It was a great program that quickly and effectively injected ‘My military career helped nurture the self-discipline that now the relevant information that I needed to begin my studies at enables my commitment to study, absorb information and to university. Because of the program, I don’t struggle or squirm ask for help when I need it,’ says Trevor. at the thought of an essay, a thesis statement or anything else,’ ‘It also developed other skills like punctuality, respect, flexibility Trevor Morris completed the says Trevor. and confidence, which will help me maintain the discipline Military Academic Pathway The 2019 pilot for MAPP was made possible through a required to reach my study and career goals.’ Program before beginning his Law degree $157,000 Supporting Younger Veterans Grant from the

Photo by Nat Rogers 18 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter CM Convocation Medal DAA Distinguished Alumni Award RECOGNISING OUR Extraordinary graduates

Professor Anne Kavanagh CM Dr Olivia Samardzic PSM CM Dr Sukhvinder Badwal DAA BMBS ’87 BSc(Hons) ’90, PhD(SE) ’96 PhD(PhysSc) ’78 Awarded for her outstanding leadership and Awarded for her outstanding contribution Awarded for his outstanding international 2019 Flinders University the advancement of research and knowledge to the national and international science, leadership, research and development in the on health inequities, particularly the health technology, engineering and mathematics fields of energy technology and engineering. Alumni Award Recipients of people with disabilities. community. In particular, her significant service to science and technology in support of the Australian Defence Force. Women who have dreamed big and succeeded – by Adjunct Associate Professor Jenny Hurley; Executive Director creating the Space School in Adelaide, and fighting of Reconciliation South Australia, Shona Reid; and artist, for people with disabilities – are among the high author and teacher, Alan Tucker. achievers recognised in the 2019 Flinders University A Distinguished Alumni Award was granted posthumously Alumni Awards. to the late Professor Liz Eckermann (1949-2019). Professor The 2019 Convocation Medallists are Dr Olivia Samardzic Eckermann’s public health research focused on gender and PSM, a Research Leader with the Australian Department of health, reproductive and maternal health, violence against Defence and founder of the SA Space School, and Professor women, and developing quality of life and health status Anne Kavanagh, Chair of Disability and Health at University indicators within developing countries. of Melbourne’s Centre for Health Equity. Acknowledging the significant contributions made by our Seven extraordinary graduates received a 2019 Distinguished graduates to the community, to the University or within their Alumni Award including: CSIRO Fellow and former CSIRO chosen field, the 2019 Alumni Awards were presented at a special ceremony at the Mortlock Chamber of the State Chief Research Scientist, Dr Sukhvinder Badwal; Executive Basia Bonkowski DAA Kim Cheater DAA Alan Tucker DAA Library of South Australia on Thursday 27 February 2020. Producer of Screentime, Basia Bonkowski; Partner at PwC and BA(Hons) ’75 BEc ’86 BA(Hons) ’74, DipEd ’75 Co-Chair of the National Reconciliation Governance Committee, Read their extraordinary stories of achievement: Awarded for her significant contribution Awarded for his significant contribution to Awarded for his significant contribution as Kim Cheater; Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer at SA Health, flinders.edu.au/alumni-awards to the creative arts as a television producer the business community of South Australia an artist, author and teacher committed to and presenter, author and movie reviewer. and commitment to Reconciliation. sharing stories from Australian history with the younger generation.

*New in 2020: Early Career Alumni Award Adjunct Associate Professor DAA Shona Reid DAA Professor Liz Eckermann DAA Jenny Hurley BBehavSc ’00 BA(Hons) ’77, MA(SocSc)(Res) ’85, MHlthAdmin ’12 PhD(SocSc) ’94 Nominations close: 5pm, Friday 11 September 2020 Awarded for her significant contribution and Awarded for her outstanding leadership, commitment to the advancement and rights Awarded for her outstanding international advocacy and commitment to the ongoing of Aboriginal children, young people, families leadership in health research to improve development of nursing and midwifery and communities. the quality of life for underprivileged and practices within South Australia. marginalised people around the world.

20 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter ALUMNI AWARDS 21 PROFESSOR GARRY STEWART IS Despite a lifetime dedicated to dance, Professor Jermaine Hampton (BA(Hons) ’17) is a PhD student Garry Stewart has always been fascinated by working on virtual reality research. He says, ‘To learn a range of other disciplines, including science. everything that’s going on behind the scenes in this He brings this fascination, and his enthusiasm new media is really fascinating. for innovative collaborations, to his new role as ‘It’s innovative for how it reveals the next step in Professor of Creative Arts and the first Director movement, and is a great opportunity for students to Assembling of the Assemblage Centre for Creative Arts at be submersed in what technology and media is now.’ Flinders University.

Professor Stewart has been notable in his other high- ‘...a great opportunity for students to profile role as artistic director of Australian Dance be submersed in what technology and a different Theatre (ADT). Since joining ADT in 1999, he has constantly pushed the boundaries of how dance and media is now.’ movement is expressed in live performance and media. Professor Stewart’s route to academia has been To expand the possibilities of this idiom, Professor unconventional but tied by myriad threads over many Stewart has long reached out to other disciplines artistic future years. Coming from rural New South Wales, he began for explanations of how and why we move – through studying social work in Sydney before committing neuroscience, architecture, digital and motion capture himself to professional dance training at the Australian technologies, prosthetics, and robotics. He is now Ballet School. Through the 20 years he has spent at the excited by the new opportunities to fuse the creative helm of ADT, he has choreographed more than 25 major arts with Flinders’ experts in digital design, engineering, productions, as well as video and live performance robotics, artificial intelligence, and health sciences for installations. Much of his work has been notable for unique research projects. its unconventional collaborations. The Void is the largest motion capture ‘The desire to incorporate neuroscience, biology and technology to dance first arose in my dance production lab in South Australia. Devolution in 2006, which involved 30 robotic machines including robotic prosthetics and ten dancers,’ he says. This spirit of innovative collaboration will propel Flinders’ new research centre to forge a nexus point for the University’s existing creative arts disciplines and ‘I’m exhilarated by alternate ways of engage new connections with other academic sectors thinking that collaborations can assert to promote innovative trans-disciplinary research. upon artistic processes.’ ‘Based in the existing Flinders creative arts hub, Assemblage will draw together the significant resources ‘I see research and acquiring knowledge as the already available across the University and unite them essential building blocks of any innovative artistic in new collaborations,’ says Professor Stewart. ‘We will pursuit. I’m exhilarated by alternate ways of thinking also work externally, drawing arts organisations into that collaborations can assert upon artistic processes.’ the Assemblage workspace as well as other industries.’ Through his work as director of Assemblage, Professor The first example of Assemblage nurturing new Stewart says he will remain inexorably linked to artistic collaborations will occur in The Void. Based at Flinders’ practice via his own work. However, in this new role Bedford Park campus, The Void is the largest motion he views himself primarily as a facilitator for artists’ capture lab in South Australia. and researchers’ own creativity. ‘It’s an advanced facility that brings together ‘I intend to be at the centre of Assemblage activities,’ filmmakers, actors, dancers, gamers, technicians he says, ‘setting up the pathways for opportunities and more in an environment where everyone is across a vast range of disciplines. experimenting and exploring, and that brings much ‘It’s thrilling for me to think of the extraordinary creative possibility,’ says Dan Thorsland, Lab Manager of arts research that is now going to be possible through The Void. this unique centre.’ Students who have already worked in The Void, on motion capture video for electronic game development, are excited by the possibilities that the new facility offers.

Director of the Assemblage Centre for Creative Arts, Professor Garry Stewart Hire The Void in The Void Like to get hands-on in South Australia’s largest motion capture lab? The Void is available for hire, contact Lab Manager Dan Thorsland. [email protected]

22 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter RESEARCH 23 Why do men use violence in relationships? Research on how we can curb the crisis of domestic violence

Domestic violence against women in Australia is a ‘All the interviewees volunteered to be a part of this research, growing crisis. One in four women will experience so they had time to digest the purpose of the study and how domestic violence in this country during their lifetime, to answer the questions, but it was still a difficult task for and an average of one woman a week is murdered them to address the shame of what they had done, and for at the hands of their partner. them to articulate the hurt and damage they had inflicted,’ says Professor Wendt. Professor Sarah Wendt, Matthew Flinders Fellow and Professor in Social Work at Flinders University, can’t The research interviews were very different to a counselling understand why there isn’t more urgency being shown to or therapy interview. ‘We are not there to challenge the men curb this disturbing situation – but she is leading research or their accounts,’ explains Professor Wendt. that strives to identify why men use violence against women ‘We asked questions to generate a narrative that enabled and children. men to think about their behavioural change. We later analysed the transcript with a therapist and found interesting ‘With the statistics so high, I can’t understand moments of change occurring along a violent man’s journey. why there isn’t a panic about this in our society.’ ‘The process builds a foundation for men to start articulating who they would like to be and how they would like to change Professor Sarah Wendt Professor Wendt and her team have investigated the – but stopping the use of violence is a long journey that takes wants to curb the domestic effectiveness of an innovative approach to therapy for a very long time.’ violence crisis men that enables behavioural and attitudinal change. Photo by Louise Bagger It uses narratives and storytelling to engage with men on a rehabilitation journey – which the researchers ‘The process builds a foundation for men to have found to be a useful and effective tool. start articulating who they would like to be and how they would like to change...’ The report – Engaging with men who use violence, by Professor Wendt believes the widespread promotion and Professor Sarah Wendt, Dr Kate Seymour, Fiona Buchanan acceptance of this research study is a vital step towards (PhD(Ng/Midwif) ’12), Chris Dolman (BSocWk(GradEntry) Due to the indeterminate length of time of each man’s addressing the largely unspoken social blight of violence Supporting the frontline ’03) and Dr Natalie Greenland, produced with Australia’s journey of change, Professor Wendt emphasises that in relationships. National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety trying to qualify ‘success’ is a very contentious term in this Professor Sarah Wendt has been researching (ANROWS) and Uniting Communities – was released space. Is it success if a man stops using physical violence ‘We know that we are probably underestimating the domestic and family violence in Australia for over publicly at the end of 2019. against his partner, but continues to threaten and belittle extent of domestic and family violence, because so many a decade and is now researching how to best her, controlling her every move? Is it success if the partner’s women survivors are not prepared to report incidents,’ support those working on the frontline of the It was both a challenging and risky process for the fear never goes away? says Professor Wendt. growing domestic violence crisis. researchers to ask such pointed questions about the origins of violent behaviour by its perpetrators, but Professor Wendt The report highlights complex, specific needs to address ‘With the statistics so high, I can’t understand why there Read the full report of Engaging with men who says working with such an experienced counselling agency this problem, and Professor Wendt hopes agencies will isn’t a panic about this in our society. It is a significant use violence. as Uniting Communities, and with each man’s therapy see what this technique does to men over time. Ultimately, community problem that must be addressed – and the anrows.org.au/publications practitioner, provided a safe and productive environment she hopes the report results in widespread influence over difficult questions about men’s use of violence need that gave piercing insights into violent behaviour. policy and practice. to be asked.’

24 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter RESEARCH 25 A bequest to researchers at Flinders University The fund supports the work of Associate Professor Sonja honours the life and contribution of Emeritus Klebe (PhD(Med) ’01) whose clinical trial of localised therapy Professor Doug Henderson AO, and continues the for mesothelioma is the first of its kind in the world. legacy of the world-renowned authority in pathology With a special focus on lung disorders, Associate Professor and his research into asbestos-related diseases. Klebe worked with Professor Henderson for 18 years. Known for his kind and patient manner, Flinders University The fund has also supported the creation of a new research researcher Professor Henderson was an internationally role – the Prof Doug Henderson AO Postdoctoral Research recognised pathologist with a focus on the diagnosis, Associate in Asbestos Associated Disease – in Flinders treatment and prevention of asbestos-related diseases. University’s College of Medicine and Public Health. He was the world expert on the deadly cancer mesothelioma Taking up the role in November 2019, Dr Ashleigh Hocking – an aggressive cancer of the cells that line the lungs and (PhD(Med) ’19) is continuing the work of Professor Henderson the chest wall cavity, often caused by asbestos exposure. through her research on malignant mesothelioma. Professor Henderson was regularly called on to provide his professional opinion in legal cases, including High Court ‘He was a great man who made a profound cases, helping thousands of victims as they struggled to come to terms with their diagnosis. difference to the lives of the hundreds of asbestos victims he treated...’ A surgical pathologist at Flinders Medical Centre, Professor Henderson’s expertise on diseases of the pleura and asbestos-related disorders led to him advising ‘My research is focused on a sub-population of immortal a range of international bodies, including the World Health cells within mesotheliomas that can “fuel” tumour growth Organisation (WHO) and the International Association and withstand standard treatment regimens such as for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), as well as the chemotherapy,’ says Dr Hocking. ‘Through this research, International Mesothelioma Panel. I hope to expand our knowledge of these cells so we can create more effective treatments for patients.’ He was the world expert on the deadly cancer She says, ‘I’m very grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the mesothelioma...regularly called on to provide field of research that I feel passionate about, and that Professor Henderson himself dedicated so much of his life towards.’ his professional opinion in legal cases... The Asbestos Victims Association of South Australia says Professor Henderson made a significant difference to the In 1999 and 2000, Professor Henderson was called upon by lives of hundreds of local asbestos victims, particularly the World Trade Organisation Disputes Resolution Panel for those with the aggressive and currently incurable lung the dispute between Canada and the European Communities cancer mesothelioma. Bequest for on the importation of chrysotile asbestos. He also contributed to the Asbestosis Committee convened by the College of ‘Doug was passionate about so much more than just American Pathologists and the Pulmonary Pathology Society. diagnosis and treatment. He focused a huge amount of time and effort on ground-breaking research into how to better In 2006, he was awarded a Distinguished Fellow Award treat and eventually cure these terrible diseases,’ says Kat by The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia. In 2010, Asbestos Burge, President of the Asbestos Victims Association. he was awarded the Distinguished Pathologist Medal of the Australasian Division of the International Academy of ‘He was a great man who made a profound difference Pathology. Professor Henderson was awarded an Officer to the lives of the hundreds of asbestos victims he treated, in the Order of Australia (AO) in 2015 for his services to and countless more people around the world who benefited Disease medicine, especially in the field of asbestos-related disorders. from his research efforts.’ Aged 76, Professor Henderson passed away in 2018 The late Emeritus Professor Doug Henderson AO is leaving a bequest in his Will to support lung cancer and survived by his children Axel and Alida, and his partner mesothelioma research at Flinders University. To continue Associate Professor Sonja Klebe, who is committed the legacy of his incredible life’s work, the Professor to continuing his research legacy and finding effective Research Doug Henderson AO Research Fund was established. treatments for asbestos-related diseases. Professor Doug Henderson AO Research Fund Support Research and Education in your Will Bequests play an incredibly important role in shaping the future for students and reseachers at Flinders University. When you leave a donation in your Will you are making an enduring contribution to creating positive change in our community. If you would like to leave a legacy to research or education at Flinders University please contact Bequest Coordinator Georgie Clark, +61 8 8201 2511, [email protected] flinders.edu.au/bequest Emeritus Professor Doug Henderson AO Photo: The Advertiser PHILANTHROPY 27 ‘Since neither birth nor fortune have favoured me, my actions shall speak to the world.’ − Matthew Flinders, 1804 Matthew Flinders Scholarship Crucial support for our students during COVID-19

As a champion of social justice, Flinders University Matthew Flinders Scholarship, enabling the University to holds an unwavering belief that those with the ability provide much needed emergency relief to nearly 1,500 to succeed through education should be given the students in its first round of support. opportunity to do so and has recently created the Matthew Flinders Scholarship to support students However, further support for students is still needed. during this difficult time. Around 4,000 domestic students are feeling the greatest With rising levels of unemployment and under-employment, financial impacts of the pandemic. These are students who university students, many of whom had casual and contract are already vulnerable due to their low socio-economic roles to sustain them through their studies, continue to be background, and those who experience barriers to education, hit hard by the ongoing economic impact of the pandemic. including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, rural and regional students, and students with a disability. As a result, thousands of Flinders students continue to face financial hardship and are struggling to meet their Another 3,500 international students are also struggling basic living costs. and have been unable to return to their home countries due to travel restrictions. Many are cut off from vital family support Victoria Griffin is a second-year student in the Bachelor of Creative Arts (Creative Writing) and was working two part- while others have families who have lost their capacity, due to time jobs to support herself during her studies. Following COVID-19, to support them through their studies. the COVID-19 restrictions, the hotel Victoria was working at As we open a second round of Matthew Flinders Scholarships, closed and she lost her job as a trivia host. She also lost her we can already see our students’ need for financial support second job as a promotion assistant doing food sampling continues to be high. in supermarkets – a job that won’t be reintroduced for the foreseeable future. If you would like to support students with their essential basic living needs, such as food and rent, please donate She says, ‘The financial uncertainty this brought has caused online to the Matthew Flinders Scholarship Fund. Supporting me a huge amount of stress.’ students through scholarships not only relieves financial Victoria learnt that Flinders had created a COVID-19 Student distress but also provides the morale boost they need to Support Package, which included student relief payments of continue their studies and achieve their degree. $500 and the $2,000 Matthew Flinders Scholarship. Her application for the scholarship was successful and has helped Victoria to pay her living costs including bills and rent. Emergency relief for students – donate today ‘To receive this scholarship is a huge weight off my mind. It has been so uplifting – both in terms of assisting with my Don’t let COVID-19 be a barrier to our students being able to financial stress, and because it has felt so encouraging to have fulfil their potential - help provide emergency relief today. 100% the support of the Flinders community at this time,’ she says. of your donation will support Flinders students in financial need through the Matthew Flinders Scholarship Fund. In an incredible show of support for students, the Flinders community of alumni and staff donated generously to the flinders.edu.au/supportstudents

Students Row 1: Victoria Griffin, Bachelor of Creative Arts (Creative Writing); Vrinda Bhutani, Bachelor of Commerce (Finance and Economics); Samyam Shakya, Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical) Honours Students Row 2: Phuong Anh Lai, Master of Speech Pathology; D’Arcy Mitchell, Bachelor of Nursing; Oliva Jansen, Bachelor of Human Nutrition Students Row 3: Jett Zivkovic, PhD (Medical Science); Sophary Hang, Master of Social Work; Dennis Asante, PhD in Public Health

28 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter PHILANTHROPY 29 DONORS Gaynor Brook Nuno Costa Paul Finnane Roger Henderson Sonja Klebe Ross McKinnon Megan Ottewell Stephanie Rowland Margaret Smythe Sarah Walsh ORGANISATIONS Simon Brookes Jennifer Court OAM Amanda Finnis Julian Hetyey Nalini Klopp Frank McKone A Pain Erin Ruff Sandra Sowerby Fergus Walters Brian Abbey Adelaide Health Care Barbara & Cyril Brown Gordon Crabb Leona Fitzgerald Kirsten Heuer Matthew Knapman M E McLaren Kay Paine Valdu Runnel Peter Speck John Warne Remon Abdo Adelaide Theatre Gabriel Hicks Michael McNamara David Wattchow Jikke Adema Karen Brown Jonathan Craig Barbara Fitzgibbon Elizabeth Knight Johnny Pamintuan Jane Russell Megan Spiliopoulos & More Social Club Georgie Hicks Helen McSkimming Garry Weatherill Ingrid Ahmer Jane & Robert Philip Crawley Robert Fletcher Ingo Koeper Maria Parappilly OAM Andrew Rutter Vicki Squire Adult Brain Cancer Brummitt Janita Hill Brownyn McTaggart Emma Webster Support Association 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Winther Mary Jane Lewis Christopher Bailey Edda Munro Tony Preston Alessandro Sereni Ming Fen Wong Scholarship Foundation Joseph Cheng Alan Doyle Karli Goodwin Carol Irizarry Sarah Lister Phyllis Tharenou David Bain Wendy Murchland Kay Chilton Rachele Draper Olga Gostin Kylie Jarrett Tessa Lockwood Barbara Baird Amanda Graham Michael Chin Mark Drechsler Ute Jefferies Karen Lower Danielle Baker Anna Jane Lucas Margaret Baker AO CBE Val Baldwin OAM Kadar & Anton Lucas Amanda Balmer Ann Luzeckyj Rosemary Bannister David Lynn Linda Barwick Trish MacFarlane Paris Bates Emma Mackenzie The Murchland Family Mediserve Nursing Neil Batty Agency Lachlan Mackenzie Janet Murray Jo Baulderstone Medtronic Australasia Peter Mackenzie Pandiarasi Mutharasu Lucy Chipchase Marie-Louise Dreux Jodi Gray Shane Jennings Pty Ltd Rosemary Baxter Lillian Mwanri Paul Chisholm Emily Drewniak Kim Greeve Zhongfan Jia Carole Mackintosh Mixed Incs Merridy Baylis Ngaire Naffine John Price Carmela Sergi Callista Thillou Anne Woodcock Mark Gregory Amanda Maher Christine Bender Fred Chow Charlotte Du Rieu Erica Jolly CUniv Karen Price Mara & Doug Seton Barbara Thompson Lesley Woods Nature Foundation K M Griffin Yumi Naito SA Inc Wah Chow Jennifer Dudley Carole Johnson Deirdre Malouf Robert Wright Kurt Bennett Ada Nataren Beth Prior Roger Sexton Diane Thompson Natalie Ciccone Caroline Duffy Kristina Gudelis Seya Manawamma Ronald J Wright Panarcadian Arthur Bilski Christopher Jones Kimberly Nefyn Kim Pryor Kathryn Seymour Jennifer Tieman Association of SA Philip Guerin Jackie Wurm Jane & Robert Birks Michelle Clanahan Kay Duncan Jennifer Jones Gregory Manning Priti Pun Geoffrey Shacklock Marika Tiggemann Scott Guy Patricia Nesbitt & James Crowley Lily Xiao Resthaven Inc Kerry Bissaker John Clancy Suzanne Dunn Haydon Manning Nadia Pusz Jan Haaren Feisar Joya Gary Newell Betty Shards Rotary Club of Barossa Georgie Clark Joan Durdin AM DUniv Bruce March Anna Treloar Zarine Zarine Rosalind & Dick Blandy Thomas Hagley Felicity Jukes Ngan Nguyen George Pybus Margaret Shearwood Valley Foundation Inc Sarah Clark Alison Dwyer Dianne Trussell Allisa Zhao Elizabeth & David Jillian & Stephen Hains David Kaczmarek Christine Marsden Vikkneshwari Rajendren Anne Shephard SA Health Thi Thu Thuong Selina Tually Binzhong Zhou Bleby Janine Clarke Anthony Dyer Janis & Simon Marsh Nguyen Vicki Hale Ross Kalucy AM Diané Ranck Susanne Sheridan Rhett Zhu Sanfilippo Children's Claire Bockner Michele Cochrane Anne Edwards AO Alan Tucker Foundation Lee-Anne Hall & Libby Kalucy OAM Gillian Marshman Van Lam Nguyen Sebastian Raneskold Dorothy Shorne Rosie Bolingbroke Thomas Cochrane Dee Edwards Libby Turtle Ruth Hall Sandra Kanck Deborah Martin Jennifer Nicholls Colin Raston AO Ros Shute CLASS GIFT Sophia Ecumenical Brett Bowden Paul Coddington Stephanie Eglinton- Ella Tyler Feminist Spirituality Inc Angus Hambrook Kuldeep Kaur Louise Mason Sophie Norman Christopher Reid Alan Sicolo Warner Kit Underdown Graduating class South Australian Chris Bowman Malcolm Colegate Kevin Hamilton Mark Keam Michael Notley Jean Reid Pierre Ekanga Annette Masters Chris Simmons Kohei Uosaki BMBS (GradEntry) Museum John Bradley Anne Collins Keith Hancock AO Ingrid Kellenbach The Estate of the late Sinead O'Connell Philip Remilton Mary Simpson ’99 in memory of Spine Society Bethany Braendler Theo Ellenbroek & Susan Richardson Lucia Vaiciulevicius Rosemarie Collyer Cecilia Kelly Shirley Matthews Chris O'Grady Alistair Rendell Dr David Astill of Australia Ruth Ellis Ivana Situm-Bancevic Margaret Bragg Nayia Cominos Elizabeth Handsley Marja van Breda Kay Kennedy Sheila McCarthy Brenda O'Hara Allen Repashy State Government Daina Engelhardt Peter Hanlon Sandra Skinner Joe Van Dalen GIFTS-IN-KIND Ann Braybon Jacob Cooke-Tilley Ian McDonald Brigitte Olijnyk Robert Rice of South Australia Fiona Errington Michelle Harris Kate Kennett Zlatko Skrbis Reuben Van Velsen Esther & Bill Breed Susan & John Cook Taher Omari Marlin Richards The Estate of the late The Waterhouse Margaret Evans Isobel & Michael Harry Rebecca Keough Ann McElroy Mark Slee OAM Martin Breed Hilary & Peter Cookson Donald Brook Club Inc Reza Hashemi Anthony Kersten Dakota McEwen Lisa O'Neill Ron Roberts Anna Smith Julie Vanzo Yuming Fan Aleksander Danko Thyne Reid Foundation Ionie & Max Brennan Gina Copeman Eng Ooi Eric Robins Cheryl Fear Dorothy Heath Kong Khoo Liam McGeagh Cynthia Smith Lewis Vaughan AO Simon Copley IAS Fine Art Logistics University of Melbourne Helen Heithersay Michael Kidd AM Margot McInnes Katy Osborne John Roddick Gemma Smith Melissa Veal Pty Ltd F Brincat OAM Suzanne Corcoran Norman Feather AM University of The Estate of the Natasha Kidd Steve McKee Richard Osborne John Rogers Justine Smith Gregory Venn Peter Kampfner New South Wales Jan Brinkworth Helen Fehlberg late Professor Doug Daniela & Marcello Minako Oshima Carolyn Ronan & Binoy Appukuttan Bert Verhoeven Patrick Brislan Costa AO Michael Filosi Henderson AO Alison Kitson Deanna McKeown Diana Laidlaw AM University of the Third Saeko Otsuka Denise Rowe Lesley Smith Barbara Wall J V S Megaw AM Age, Flinders Branch Yoichiro Otsuka Dorothy Rowell Alison Smyth Ilka Wallis Jonathan P Steele Wattle Range Council Thank you also to our many donors who wish to remain anonymous. *The Donor Honour Roll recognises those who donated to Flinders University between 1 January 2019 and 30 June 2020.

30 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter PHILANTHROPY 31 Rich study and life experiences have equipped a diverse array of Flinders University graduates to have their compelling stories published across a range of literary genres. Published works include Dr Ben Chandler’s fantasy novels, Hannah Kent’s Flinders best-selling historical fiction, Lucy Trethewey’s educative children’s story, and medical graduate Dr Sarah Brooker’s fascinating biography exploring her incredible medical condition and recovery.

graduates The Good People Hannah Kent (BCreatArts(Hons) ’09) enjoyed great success with her second novel The Good People (2016), following the international best-seller status of her 2013 debut Burial Rites. have The Good People is a historical fiction set in 1820s rural Ireland, exploring how folkloric beliefs and fairy superstitions take hold of a community fretting to explain a series of sudden deaths. Desperate for answers, they point to a sickly boy as the reason for their ill fortune, a story believing he is in the thrall of wicked fairies. The boy’s mother, Nóra Leahy, is left to to tell battle with a rising hysteria of religious, medical, folkloric and, ultimately, legal foes. Beast Child

Dr Ben Chandler (BA(Hons) ’05, PhD(EHLT) ’09) is a busy fantasy writer who has issued Beast Child (2011), the second book in a continuing series of The Voyages Author of My Lucky Stroke, of the Flying Dragon. It follows teenage twins leading a renegade airship crew Dr Sarah Brooker through edgy adventures. ‘I firstly create characters that I find interesting and then build a fantasy world around them,’ says Ben who believes you can learn more from watching cartoons than you can from the news. My Lucky Stroke ‘My body needed the energy to do other, more vital things – ‘There is a lot of cultural encoding in children’s animation that is fascinating. like survive and heal.’ ‘Cartoons provided me with a window into Japanese mythology and culture In 2002 when she was just 20 years old, Dr Sarah Brooker An extraordinary twist in Sarah’s tale is that she retained her that eventually steered my academic studies. Fantasy is the progression of how (PhD(Med) ’14) had a stroke while at the wheel of her car. knowledge of neuroscience from her undergraduate degree we tell the heroic myths and legends that have been told for millennia.’ She survived the horrific crash, but extensive brain injuries in Behavioural Neuroscience, and went on to complete her left her with no memory of her life before the accident. Honours and later a medical PhD at Flinders University. Incredibly, Sarah says she’s a better person having come through the ordeal. She shares the remarkable story of ‘The struggle through recovery after stroke is Scapegoat rebuilding her identity in the biography My Lucky Stroke always discussed as though it’s a bad thing, Lucy Trethewey (BA ’98) used her sociology studies to inform an educative (2020). but I’ve experienced positives.’ children’s book she wrote under the pen name of Ava Keyes. Scapegoat (2018) is the story of a child bullied, blamed and belittled at home, told through the tale of cartoon goats illustrated by Aleksandra Szmidt. ‘That girl they once knew doesn't exist ‘The struggle through recovery after stroke is always anymore, and I don't believe my brain will ever discussed as though it’s a bad thing, but I’ve experienced Lucy felt compelled to write Scapegoat after finding nothing else published allow those memories to come back again.’ positives. Everything I’ve done since – learning to talk, walk, for young children about this subject. sit upright, in fact every memory I have – is an achievement.’ ‘We don’t have enough understanding of how families function under their ‘My family hadn’t realised how much I’d changed as a person Sarah is now teaching maths and science in high schools, own roof,’ says Lucy. ‘We need to push awareness and advocate for that after the accident and brain injury,’ says Sarah. ‘That girl they as well as drawing on her post-stroke experiences to teach child who is bullied. once knew doesn’t exist anymore, and I don’t believe my high-needs students who are non-verbal, have learning ‘I’m keen to tell stories that explain why people become who they are.’ brain will ever allow those memories to come back again. disorders or autism. Following the success of My Lucky Stroke, she plans to continue writing.

32 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter OUR ALUMNI 33 RECOGNISING A GUM NUT A GOOD DROP IN A ZOO A new wine and tourism degree set to expand opportunities OF TREES

A new international degree in wine and tourism at Flinders’ new Bachelor of International Business Dr Dean Nicolle OAM has created Flinders University will develop business skills and (Wine, Spirits and Tourism) is for those looking to begin the world’s largest eucalypt arboretum industry knowledge to expand career opportunities a career in the sector and for current industry professionals in the wine and tourism sector. wanting to develop their global business skills. In his early teenage years, Dr Dean Nicolle Through his work at the arboretum Dean is According to Wine Australia, there are around 2,468 wineries ‘Attempting to upskill while working full time is a huge OAM had a dream to grow one of every keen to promote the importance of scientific employing 163,790 full and part-time employees across 65 challenge. The flexibility of online learning and the ability species of eucalypt known on Earth. Now research, knowledge and critical analysis, winegrowing regions in Australia. Contributing over $45 to complete intensive blocks is a great initiative,’ says Nick. the arborist, botanist and ecologist says he’s especially in the field of climate change and billion annually to the Australian economy, the wine industry In a dedicated sensory lab at the Bedford Park campus, living the dream as the owner of the world’s its associated impacts, such as increased offers a range of career opportunities, especially for those students will learn to judge the quality of wines and spirits, largest and most diverse ‘zoo of trees’. drought and wildfire frequency, and the with business skills and industry knowledge. and understand their history and heritage. The degree effect on species diversity and distribution. In 1993 Dean (PhD(Biol) ’08) established the Riposte Brand manager Nick Knappstein travels the includes hands-on experience with four-week industry Currency Creek Arboretum with just one species Importantly, studies at the arboretum world expanding the profile of his family-run Adelaide placements, practical field trips, and study tours across of eucalypt. have supported the recovery work of Hills wine brand. Despite decades of industry experience, Australia’s leading wine tourism regions and to international the recent bushfires. Nick acknowledges the advantages of having business trade fairs including ProWein and Vinitaly. Now in 2020, the arboretum has grown to qualifications in a competitive international export industry. 32 hectares of 10,000 trees, representing 900 ‘Ongoing research includes how eucalypts Flinders University’s Director of the MBA and wine business eucalypt species from across Australia. He has ‘Many employees of smaller to mid-size wine companies are programs, Professor Roberta Crouch, says the degree is respond to drought and fire, with the named 30 newly discovered species as well examination of the regenerative strategies having increasingly broad areas of responsibility,’ says Nick. designed to maximise graduate employment opportunities as 32 subspecies and 25 other taxa. ‘Formal qualifications encompassing all facets of the industry, and enhance the sector’s global competitiveness. and generation time of different species,’ from viticulture through to export market development, are Dean grew up on his parents’ four-hectare says Dean. ‘The curriculum was developed in conjunction with an important holistic approach to the industry.’ commercial orchid nursery in the southern His research has also informed the commercial leading academics, industry experts and feedback from suburbs of Adelaide. His love of eucalypts was ‘It also gives employers confidence that an individual extensive market research,’ says Professor Crouch. ‘This production of timber and biomass products, sparked by being surrounded by trees and nature, floriculture and craft products, honey and holding the qualification is an asset to a wine business exciting combination of expertise will provide students with and fuelled by enthusiastic and supportive parents across a variety of roles.’ practical, internationally recognised qualifications that are flavouring products, and products derived who purchased the land at Currency Creek for from eucalypt leaf oils and tannins. highly regarded by employers around the world.’ Dean to create his ‘zoo of trees’. In 2018 the world-renowned ecologist What began as a dream has turned into a was recognised for his services to the research opportunity. conservation of eucalypts with a Medal Following undergraduate studies in science, of the Order of Australia. Dean completed his PhD in Biology at Flinders With an enthusiasm for eucalypts that has University, where his concurrent studies, eucalypt- earnt him the title of ‘gum nut’, Dean is keen related research and consulting in botany, to share his knowledge, research and passion arboriculture and ecology, proved a valuable of eucalypts widely, and has published a combination. range of user-friendly books on the topic. ‘My studies at Flinders have significantly influenced ‘I was able to make a career out of my passion, and impacted my current work. It provided me with and my work now takes me to amazing places the knowledge, techniques and ability to do critical throughout Australia and the world.’ thinking and research, as well as to communicate with peers and non-peers,’ says Dean.

Lead and innovate in a global industry Visit the Zoo of Trees Learn from industry experts from around the world and receive a business education that is ranked number one in South Australia for ‘Teaching Quality in Business & Management’ (The Good Universities Guide 2020). On 26 and 27 September, as part of National Eucalypt Day, you can explore the Currency Creek Arboretum Apply now for the Bachelor of International Business (Wine, Spirits and Tourism). with a free one or two hour guided tour by eucalypt expert and arboretum curator Dr Dean Nicolle OAM. flinders.edu.au/wine-spirits-tourism dn.com.au

Photo: Getty Photo supplied CITY OF MITCHAM'S GRADUATE PROGRAM Launching careers

The opportunity to be part of the City of Mitcham’s Barry’s new lease of working life is even sweeter after graduate program has launched the careers of recovering from a double lung transplant in 2017 due Flinders University graduates Barry Lane and to cystic fibrosis – all while completing his degree. Sarah McConaghy-Beasley. Finding a new career path during his recovery took a Both say they would not be in such rewarding work in lot of patience – developing his resume, looking at job Local Government without their Flinders education and options, and networking in government circles, all with support from the University’s Careers and Employability support from Careers and Employability at Flinders. team. Barry Lane (BGovtPubMgmt ’18) and Sarah McConaghy- ‘Our graduate program partnership with Beasley (BSc ’18) are among 14 Flinders University Flinders University plays an important role graduates who took part in a 12-week pilot graduate in bringing innovative ideas and skills into program at the City of Mitcham last year. our organisation.’ ‘I couldn’t be happier with the Work Health and Safety team and Mitcham Council as an employer,’ says Barry, City of Mitcham’s Chief Executive Officer Matt Pears the former car worker and fly-in fly-out mine site operator says, ‘Our graduate program partnership with Flinders who began his degree at Flinders via the Foundation University plays an important role in bringing innovative Studies pathway as a mature age student. ideas and skills into our organisation. ‘If it wasn’t for Flinders University, I wouldn’t be where ‘Local Government offers attractive career paths for I am today,’ he says. graduates who want to play a role in making a difference From help with resume and job options, to basic skills in in our community.’ public speaking and communicating with the public, Barry During the 12-week program, the graduates benefited and Sarah say the combination of their university degrees from the Flinders Horizon Professional Development and help from Flinders Careers and Employability has Award, which was also offered to Flinders alumni been invaluable. already working at the Council.

‘If it wasn’t for Flinders University, I wouldn’t ‘The Council saw the project as a way to access our talent pool and increase future leadership within the be where I am today.’ Council,’ says Flinders Careers and Employability’s Employer Liaison Officer Philippa Spencer. ‘The success Sarah says the Flinders Careers and Employability team demonstrates the University’s strong engagement with were instrumental in her making an application via video local councils, and the employability of our graduates.’ presentation to Mitcham Council. Many of the Flinders graduates who gained experience ‘To be honest, I would not have considered working in in roles throughout the Council during the pilot graduate waste management with a biodiversity and conservation program have now secured ongoing roles. degree,’ says Sarah. ‘But my degree has prepared me for working in a professional setting, and has given me ‘It’s a surprising twist working at a council, it’s a whole confidence to work in community liaison and education new world really,’ says Sarah. in waste management. ‘It’s a growing, challenging and exciting field, which I now hope to specialise in.’

‘Once you’ve done a degree you have a better idea of Engage our students and graduates where you can work,’ adds Barry, who helps manage work Sarah McConaghy-Beasley health and safety for almost 300 employees at the council. Benefit from fresh thinking and ideas, extend your projects and Barry Lane completed and capacity, and be part of the development of tomorrow’s the City of Mitcham graduate ‘After that, you have to start somewhere, and be flexible workforce – engage enterprising and innovative Flinders program and responsive to any opportunity that comes along,’ University students and graduates in your workplace. says Barry who is now extending his tertiary studies to specialise in the occupational health and safety field. flinders.edu.au/engage/employment

36 FLINDERS UNIVERSITY / encounter OUR ALUMNI 37 He has spent his career working hard to reduce ‘I was then given support to get my sleeping the debilitating effects of insomnia and other patterns and my life back to normal,’ says Anita. sleep disorders. ‘I now wake up feeling refreshed and have an inner peace.’ ‘More than half of us suffer from loss of daytime function due to poor sleep,’ says Professor Lack. Anita believes the sleep study and resulting ‘At AISH we offer clinical consultations to treat support from AISH have added extra years to insomnia and related conditions via phone and her life, and she is keen to see others benefit other remote options, as well as the option of from the Institute’s research. face-to-face consultations if needed.’ AISH Director Professor Danny Eckert is At the Institute’s high-tech, six-bed research lab making inroads into targeted drug and breathing a wide range of clinical studies are conducted therapies for sleep disorders such as obstructive to find better solutions for sleep health. sleep apnoea. With over 50 staff, the centre brings together national sleep experts including its Director ‘Through our clinical treatment services, Professor Danny Eckert and Medical Director some find rapid relief from their Professor Robert Adams, as well as esteemed sleep scientists including Professors Doug seemingly endless sleep problems.’ McEvoy and Peter Catcheside, Dr Nicole Lovato (BPsych(Hons) ’08, PhD(Psych) ’12), Dr Gorica He says, ‘Sleep disorders, as well as voluntary Micic (BBehavSc(Hons) ’12, PhD(Psych) ’16, and society-driven sleep pressures have a major MPsych(Clin) ’19), and Associate Professors negative impact on health, productivity and safety Andrew Vakulin, Sutapa Mukherjee and – yet very little is done in the primary health care Ching Li Chai-Coetzer. system to address these issues.’ As a result, Flinders University is leading an ‘We aim to find solutions for even Australian Government NHMRC Centre of the most complex cases.’ Research Excellence in Clinical Sleep Services project to expand GP and primary care treatment ‘Our toolkit for different insomnia treatments for the sleep epidemic across the nation. includes various forms of cognitive behaviour therapy in combination with light therapy and ‘I now wake up feeling refreshed other technologies. We aim to find solutions for and have an inner peace.’ even the most complex cases,’ says Professor Lack, who helped invent Re-timer light glasses and a small wearable consumer device to adjust ‘The over-reliance on specialist services and individual circadian rhythms for better sleep. hypnotic drug therapy, poor resourcing for primary Waking up tired care professionals in sleep management, and ‘Through our clinical treatment services, some expensive testing for sleep apnoea means these find rapid relief from their seemingly endless disorders often go untreated or mistreated,’ sleep problems,’ he adds. explains Professor Robert Adams, AISH Medical After many years of having trouble sleeping, Director and member of the national Sleep Health and grumpy? Anita Helbig felt like she was living on a knife Foundation Board. edge. Suffering from constant headaches and ‘Sleep is such a vital aspect of good health and Don’t worry, there’s help feeling tired all day, she found it difficult to function. happiness, but relatively few Australians speak Sleeping pills and day naps only increased the to their doctor about their sleep. on hand at Flinders symptoms and she developed insomnia. Photo: Getty ‘It’s important to know that, through Adelaide Anita’s doctor recommended the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health, there’s help on hand.’ Institute for Sleep Health and, through a sleep study, she was diagnosed with the breathing- An epidemic is raging in Australia, and it’s not the one regular basis, despite having adequate opportunity to disrupted sleep condition sleep apnoea. you might think. More than half of all adult Australians sleep, as well as daytime impairments resulting from suffer from at least one chronic sleep symptom that sleep problems. is affecting their ability to live a healthy, happy life… and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. ‘More than half of us suffer from loss A recent Australian Sleep Health Foundation study found Help is on hand to get a good night’s sleep of daytime function due to poor sleep.’ more than 60% of Australians regularly experience at least Flinders University’s Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health has a range of clinical services (some rebates one sleep issue (like trouble falling asleep) several times available through Medicare and private health insurance) and free-of-charge research projects to help a week, and 14.8% have symptoms which could result Emeritus Professor Leon Lack leads Flinders University’s get your sleep on track to support your health and happiness. in a diagnosis of clinical insomnia. Insomnia Treatment Program from the $4 million revamped Clinical or chronic insomnia is characterised by difficulty Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health (AISH) at Bedford Park, [email protected] flinders.edu.au/aish falling asleep or staying asleep, or waking too early on a one of Australia’s premier sleep research laboratories.

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