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April 2008 | Volume 17 | Number 2

inside this issue

4 $1 million scholarships attract best students

9 Unlocking Anzac spirit needs to be nurtured deadly mysteries 13 Drug program targets of the mind Vietnam HIV epidemic

17 Neuroscience “These new areas of research For the fi rst time, the Centre for are exciting for staff and students Neurological Diseases will begin From pioneer to in the Centre for Neurological studies of brain tumours focusing page-turner: Dame New research at the University of Roma’s life in print Diseases – even more so when you on two specifi c research questions. will delve into some of the consider that the Neurosurgical “The fi rst is concerned with the crucial issues surrounding death by Research Foundation (NRF) is this swelling, or oedema, caused in brain tumours and stroke. year celebrating 45 years of funding neural tissue by tumours, which The research, to be conducted in lifesaving research,” he said. is the main determinant of patient the joint University/IMVS Centre for “To be able to add two new areas outcome,” Professor Vink said. Neurological Diseases, will aim to of research is great news for our “We know that the cerebral blood fi nd links between chemical signals work, and it promises even better vessels in the vicinity of the tumour in the brain and the reasons news for people’s health in the become ‘leaky’, and this is what why brain tumours or strokes future.” underlies the development of the become fatal. swelling. However, the mechanism “There are still many mysteries Brain tumour research that causes this change in vascular around how the brain works, and Brain tumours account for permeability is unknown. this new research will help to approximately 2% of all cancer “From our research into traumatic unlock key elements we believe deaths. However, a much greater brain injury and stroke, we believe are involved in two separate but problem is the spread of cancer, that neuropeptides (chains of amino equally debilitating conditions,” said with secondary tumours developing acids in the neural tissue) may play a Professor Robert Vink, NRF Chair within the central nervous system. key role in changing the permeability of Neurosurgical Research and This accounts for almost 10 times of the blood-brain barrier. Head of the University’s School of as many deaths as primary brain Medical Sciences. tumours. continued on page 18 Adelaidean

Adelaidean is the offi cial newspaper of the . It provides news and information about the University to the general public, with a focus on Life Impact. Circulation: 11,000 per month (March to December) Online readership: 90,000 hits per month (on average) www.adelaide.edu.au/adelaidean From the Vice-Chancellor Editor: David Ellis Design and Layout: Chris Tonkin A scholarship can help change a student’s life. their second year, and already they have proven their Writers: I was lucky enough to receive a Gibson Scholarship value to our University – and, hopefully, to the schools Candy Gibson at undergraduate level, and a Queen’s University and the students themselves. Robyn Mills scholarship supported my subsequent PhD studies. So In awarding these and other scholarships, the Contributors: Claire Oremland I fully appreciate the importance of this sort of support University of Adelaide is continuing its long history of Anna Rivett for students, especially those from rural and sometimes attracting the brightest young people to study here – as Deadline for May issue: remote areas. shown by our 101 Rhodes Scholars and three Nobel Friday 4 April 2008 The Gibson Scholarship was valued at £200 per year. Laureate graduates. Editorial/Advertising enquiries: Tel: +61 8 8303 5414 That seems a small sum today, but in rural Ireland in Scholarships act as an incentive for students to Fax: +61 8 8303 4829 the 1960s, it was a substantial sum. It really did help to achieve excellence in their studies. They also, very Email: [email protected] change a student’s life. importantly, provide support for those students who Mailing address: I recently welcomed our new undergraduate might otherwise be unable to take up a University place Adelaidean scholarship winners to the University of Adelaide at – a situation that was very true for me. Marketing & Strategic Communications, a ceremony in Bonython Hall. We are blessed at this Past experience suggests that some of our University of Adelaide, University with some of the most gifted young students scholarship students will go on to become the next SA 5005 Australia in the nation. It is very pleasing to be able to say to generation of Rhodes, Fulbright, General Sir John Material may be reproduced without the hundred or so students who attended the function Monash or Menzies scholars, earning them a rightful permission but acknowledgement must be given to the Adelaidean. that we are giving them every opportunity to succeed place in the University’s history. In turn, these Printed by: in their studies, thanks to the fi nancial support they scholarships will offer our graduates opportunities right Lane Print & Post are receiving. around the world, and experience that will help them to Tel: +61 8 8179 9900 Fax: +61 8 8376 1044 As well as being academically talented, many of these make an impact on our society in a wide range of fi elds. Email: [email protected] students have also made major contributions to their Scholarships are an investment in our future. The Web: www.laneprint.com.au schools and their local communities. University of Adelaide is pleased to be making such an Distribution: Lane Print Group On the day, it was pleasing to see so many family investment, and I thank everyone who has contributed Passing Out Distribution Co. members and friends – even teachers – helping to generously in support of our scholarship programs. Registered by Australia Post celebrate the students’ success. With their support, Your assistance has made a great difference. No 565001/00046 and the fi nancial support afforded by the range of scholarships (see story on page 4), these students already have a solid foundation at this crucial early stage of their university studies. Also attending the event were Principals of secondary schools who nominated their students for the University of Adelaide Principals’ Scholarship. Their support for students and the scholarship program is greatly JAMES A. McWHA appreciated. The Principals’ Scholarships are only in Vice-Chancellor and President

Art & Heritage Collections

The aim of the Heritage Furniture Collection is The Elder School of to showcase and preserve the changing styles of Music commissioned educational furniture through the years. Andrew Parish at Alchemy Iron Works to Some items date back to the establishment of the design and produce University in 1874 and include the work of master a pair of iron bench craftsmen of that era. seats, which capture While many pieces from the collection are in storage, some of music’s Art & Heritage Collections believe it is important for whimsicality. These seats can be seen items to continue to be used and enjoyed for their and used outside the functional and aesthetic qualities. This means you will western entrance to the fi nd a selection of pieces throughout the University, with Hartley Building, North their history and superior design helping to enhance the Terrace Campus, off working spaces around campus. Kintore Avenue. The collection also includes modern pieces of furniture. Photo by Anna Rivett

Anna Rivett, Collections Offi cer, Art & Heritage Collections

2 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 News in Brief

Law lectures celebrate 125 years The University of Adelaide’s Law School is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year with a variety of events including the Law 125 Distinguished Speakers Series of free public lectures. Coming up in April are two lectures within the series: On Thursday 3 April, Associate Professor Tim Stretton of St Mary’s University in Canada will shed new light on the famous ‘pound of fl esh’ with his talk on “Contract, Debt Litigation and Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice”. On Friday 18 April, international law expert Professor David Kennedy of Brown University and formerly Harvard University Law School will discuss “The Mystery of Global Governance”. All Law 125 lectures are free, open to the public, and will be held at 1pm in the Moot Court Room, Ligertwood Building, North Terrace Campus, University of Adelaide. For more information on planned Light of learning events contact Dr Paul Babie, Associate Dean of Law (Research), on (08) 8303 5521 or email: paul. for all to see [email protected] Jazz Awards move to Hyatt Eight of the University of Adelaide’s fi nest young jazz musicians will receive more than $6000 in awards Bonython Hall, as well as the State Brett Sheehy, Artistic Community and perform in an evening of jazz on Library of , the South Director of the Adelaide Wednesday 30 April from 7pm. Australian Museum, and the Art Bank Festival of Arts, The University of Adelaide’s motto outside the University of One of the highly popular concerts Gallery of South Australia. Adelaide’s Elder Hall in is Sub Cruce Lumen. Roughly Northern Lights was just one way in the Elder Conservatorium of preparation for the opening Music’s Evening Concert Series, the translated, it means “the light (of in which the University shared centre of Northern Lights Jazz Awards concert will this year learning) under the (Southern) Cross”. stage in the offi cial launch of the be held in the Ballroom of the Hyatt But at the recent opening of the Photo by Russell Millard, Festival of Arts. Among the opening Regency. Adelaide Bank Festival of Arts, it night events was The Imaginary courtesy of The Advertiser was the Northern Lights – not the Menagerie – A Musical Circus, which “Generous support from the Hyatt Regency has enabled the evening Southern Cross – that lit up the night was staged in Elder Hall. to become a truly prestigious event and the University’s historic North The Imaginary Menagerie was Terrace frontage. in the Adelaide jazz calendar,” said an exploration of the outer limits of Claire Oremland, Elder Hall Concert Northern Lights, a public light contemporary musical performance, Manager. installation created by internationally combining classical music, jazz and The award winners for 2008 are: acclaimed artists The Electric Canvas, computer technology, and featuring was a huge hit at the Festival of Arts. Brendan Lim (piano), Matthew staff, students and graduates of the Sheens (piano), Sam Cagney Its ignition at the festival opening, University’s Elder Conservatorium (guitar), Alana Dawes (bass), and each night of the festival, drew of Music. Brenton Foster (piano), Ben large crowds of up to 15,000 people. Jazz saxophonist Derek Pascoe Harrison (saxophone), Nicholas The exhibit was so popular, it was and composer and new media Pietsch (trombone) and Joel Prime extended for two weeks after the artist Luke Harrald were joined (drums). festival ended. by an “imaginary menagerie” of Tickets to the concert are $20. For Supported by the State Library of performing emus, robots, genetically more information, special student South Australia and the University of engineered mutants, and some of prices and bookings, phone Margo Adelaide, the display used light to Adelaide’s leading contemporary Ongley at the Helpmann Academy transform the facades of a number of musicians, across three 20-minute on (08) 8463 5014. Bookings for historic buildings along the beautiful live performances. tables of 10 are available. North Terrace cultural boulevard. For more information about the Among the architectural icons to music performed on the night, For more news and events visit: be “painted with light and coloured www.adelaide.edu.au/news visit: www.lukeharrald.com.au with life” were the University’s Mitchell Building, Elder Hall and Story by David Ellis and Robyn Mills

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 3 Andy Thomas scholar Kerry Halupka (centre) with boyfriend Matthew Orman, and Loxton High School teacher Louise Barry.

Photo by Candy Gibson $1 million scholarships attract best students

Scholarships More than 100 of South It is the second time in three years outstanding academic merit and for Australia’s most outstanding school that the Andy Thomas Scholarship making a signifi cant contribution to leavers in 2007 have been awarded has been won by a former Loxton their school and wider community. undergraduate scholarships to High School student, both taught by Three international scholarships – We are committed study at the University of Adelaide Mrs Louise Barry. In 2006 Jordan the Adelaide Vietnam, the Adelaide to educating high this year. Gray took out the honours. Outstanding Achievers International, The University has provided up Fellow South Australians Lucy and the Malaysia Australia Colombo achievers and to $1 million to attract the best and Arrowsmith (Belair), Ric Porteous Plan Commemoration Scholarships maintaining a level brightest students from every area (Wattle Park), Daniel Brookes – have also been awarded to nine of excellence at of the State, as well as the Northern (Eden Hills) and Mieka Webb outstanding international students. Territory, Broken Hill and rural (Toorak Gardens) have won the The international scholarship the University . prized Adelaide Undergraduate award winners are: Aditya Khanna A total of 16 Merit Scholarships Scholarships. (India); Colin Ng (Malaysia); Mustafa and 95 Principals’ Scholarships have Winners of this scholarship Amiruddeen (Sri Lanka), Johanna been awarded, as well as the highly achieved a TER of 99.95 (excluding Ng (Malaysia); Ki Seok Kim (Korea), regarded Andy Thomas Scholarship all bonuses) and made a signifi cant Zhi Lin Oh (Malaysia); Yee Mun Fan and four Adelaide Undergraduate contribution to their school and (Malaysia); Thi Phan (Vietnam); Kim Scholarships. wider community. Khanh Nguyen (Vietnam) and Thi Former Loxton High School Both the Andy Thomas Huong Thao Le (Vietnam). student Kerry Halupka is this year’s and Adelaide Undergraduate University of Adelaide Vice- Andy Thomas Scholar, named Scholarships provide full fee Chancellor and President Professor after one of the University’s most remission for the approved program, James McWha congratulated the distinguished graduates, NASA plus $5000 a year to help with students on their scholarships. astronaut Dr Andrew Thomas. education and living costs, for up “These students have already Kerry is enrolled in a double to four years. revealed their outstanding character degree, studying for a Bachelor The Merit Scholarships, worth and academic ability and we are of Mechatronic Engineering and a $10,000, are awarded to students very pleased they have chosen to Bachelor of Maths and Computer who gained a perfect TER of 99.95, study at the University of Adelaide,” Science. excluding all bonuses. Professor McWha said. In 2007 Kerry also won an SA The Principals’ Scholarships, “We are committed to educating Great Regional Youth Award for her worth $5000, are awarded to high achievers and maintaining a community voluntary work in the students who have been nominated level of excellence at the University.” Riverina/Murraylands region. by their former school principal for Story by Candy Gibson

4 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Professor named on broadband panel

One of Australia’s top telecommunications experts, Emeritus Professor Reg Coutts, has been appointed by the Federal Government to a six-member panel of experts to assess proposals for a National Broadband Network. Professor Coutts is the owner and director of Coutts Communications National tour creates and is Professor Emeritus in Telecommunications at the University of Adelaide. He is also developing classic vibe another venture, Red Button Technologies, at the Thebarton Campus. Music From 1993 to 2003, he was Professor of Acclaimed concert percussionist bring classical repertoire to the Above: Telecommunications at Nick Parnell will this month present vibraphone, an instrument primarily Nick Parnell the University of Adelaide, Australia’s fi rst national tour of used in jazz. The vibes have a where he built the industry- Photo courtesy of sponsored Centre for classical music performed on the soothing, warm sound that I wanted Andrew Dunbar vibraphone. to use to perform classical music in Telecommunications The Elder Conservatorium a completely new and fresh way,” Information Networking. As of Music graduate will be he said. well as building expertise accompanied by fellow alumnus, “The music presented on this in telecommunications, concert pianist Leigh Harrold, in tour will be very well-known to Professor Coutts nurtured a a 17-date tour that showcases anyone who loves classical music number of innovative new the world’s most loved classical and, although different, it will courses, such as the Masters masterpieces. be interpreted with integrity and of Science and Technology The duo will kick off their appreciation of the composers’ Commercialisation, Classical Vibes tour in Adelaide on original scores.” which is now part of Wednesday 23 April, followed by Labelled “Australia’s most exciting the Entrepreneurship, performances in the Clare Valley (24 young percussionist”, Parnell is Commercialisation and April), Flinders Ranges (26 April) and an award-winning musician who Innovation Centre (ECIC). Tanunda (27 April) before touring the consistently breaks traditional Professor Coutts continues rest of the country. boundaries. to supervise research Parnell will present the likes of In 2004 he was named the Most students and actively Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, Outstanding Graduate of the Elder collaborates with a number Chopin’s Nocturnes and Gershwin’s Conservatorium after completing of groups including ECIC, Preludes, specifi cally arranged a Bachelor of Music, Honours and the Institute for International for the resonating sounds of the Masters degrees in Percussion Trade, and the School vibraphone. Performance. of Electrical & Electronic In conjunction with the Classical Engineering. Vibes tour Parnell will also release For information and booking He previously had 17 years’ his latest CD of the same name, details, visit www.nickparnell.com experience with Telstra in produced by ABC Classics. Nick is featured on the University roles that included research “The tour and subsequent CD of Adelaide’s Life Impact website: and business management. was born out of my desire to www.adelaide.edu.au/lifeimpact

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 5 Left: The Teochew Building in Singapore, home to the Ngee Ann-Adelaide Education Centre, which is celebrating its 10th year in partnership with the University of Adelaide Far left: University of Adelaide graduate and former Deputy Prime Minister Dr Tony Tan was the guest speaker at the Singapore graduation ceremony in 2004. Today he is championing the Singapore Adelaide Alumni Fund.

Photos by David Ellis Celebrating 10 years of partnership with Singapore

Graduations The University of Adelaide A highlight of this year’s former Deputy Prime Minister Dr will hold offshore graduation offshore itinerary will be a special Tony Tan and High Court judge ceremonies in Asia this month and celebration to commemorate the Mr Justice Lee Sieu Kin. All are will celebrate an historic milestone 10th anniversary of the partnership graduates of the University of in Singapore. between the University of Adelaide Adelaide. More than 200 students will and the Ngee Ann-Adelaide A feature of the evening will be graduate at offshore ceremonies Education Centre in Singapore. the launch of a Singapore Adelaide in Hong Kong and Singapore on A celebratory dinner expected to Alumni Fund. Sunday 13 and Saturday 19 April, attract up to 400 guests will be held Championed by Dr Tony Tan, the respectively. at the Orchard Hotel in Singapore fund will further strengthen the An international fl avour will on Friday 18 April. close bonds between Singapore permeate the ceremonies with The Chancellor of the University of and Adelaide by providing fi nancial countries represented comprising: Adelaide, the Hon. John von Doussa assistance to undergraduate India, Vietnam, Malaysia, China, QC, and the Vice-Chancellor and students who are Singapore citizens Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, President, Professor James McWha, or permanent residents, and Brunei, Japan, Korea, New will attend the dinner, as will the studying full-time at the University Zealand, Canada, Taiwan, Egypt, President of Ngee Ann Kongsi, Mr of Adelaide. Croatia, Libya, Macau, Oman, Teo Chaing Long, and a number of To assist the fund, the Ngee Ann Pakistan, South Africa, Egypt, prominent Singapore alumni. Kongsi has agreed to contribute one Norway, France, Great Britain, El Among those present will include dollar for every dollar donated up to Salvador, Switzerland, Andorra, The Singapore’s Minister for Transport, SGD$250,000. Philippines, Ecuador, Singapore, Mr Raymond Lim, the Minister Hong Kong and Australia. for Trade and Industry, S Iswaran, Story by Candy Gibson

6 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Research keeps simple things in mind

Physiology

Every day, millions of people We know the around the world make a cup of tea or pick up a pen without giving a brain is the most second thought to how it actually amazing part happens. of the central But to victims of stroke, or Parkinson’s, or other neurological nervous system, disorders, these simple tasks can controlling prove extremely challenging and our mental even potentially hazardous. The impairment of the processes and neurological pathway from brain physical actions to muscle has been the focus of Siobhan Schabrun’s work for the past two years. Now part way through her PhD in the School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, Miss Schabrun’s research could one day provide some vital clues into how our brain works. candidates to spend time in an Another aspect of Miss Above: The ability to lift a cup or handle overseas institution learning Schabrun’s research has focused Siobhan Schabrun a pen using the appropriate amount new methods. on a particular group of people – demonstrates the transcranial magnetic of grip force comes second nature Miss Schabrun worked with mainly writers and musicians – who stimulation technique on to most of us. The brain anticipates Professor Etienne Olivier, a leading suffer from a condition called focal physiology postdoctoral the correct amount of force required international neuroscience expert dystonia, which affects the hands. student Andrew Lavender and is unfailingly accurate. specialising in grip-lift tasks. His is Focal dystonia is a neurologically But very little is known about one of the few laboratories in the based disorder. People suffering Photo by Candy Gibson which parts of the brain are involved world that conducts research into from dystonia experience pain, in this internal process. This is this area. cramping and relentless muscle where Miss Schabrun’s research “This was a fantastic experience, spasms, preventing them from comes into play. working with a research group performing everyday tasks such as “We know the brain is the most which is using techniques we don’t signing a cheque. It tends to affect amazing part of the central nervous have access to here, learning new people who use their hands over system, controlling our mental software to locate particular regions and again in a repetitive movement. processes and physical actions,” of the brain, and employing a “When you are learning to play Miss Schabrun said. “But there is different analysis program.” tennis, your brain reorganises its so much we don’t know about Miss Schabrun is a qualifi ed structure to allow you to become how the brain works to carry out physiotherapist with an interest more skilful in the game. In people everyday tasks.” in neurological disorders and the with dystonia, as they learn, the The 24-year-old researcher spent rehabilitation processes. brain seems to do too much two months at the Université “As such, my PhD project focuses reorganisation so that people Catholique de Louvain in Belgium on the neurological mechanisms have trouble performing normal last year to learn more about responsible for object manipulation, movements.” specifi c neuroscience techniques, such as grasping and lifting a cup Miss Schabrun is due to new software and analysis of tea. We need to gain a better submit her PhD in April 2009. Her programs. understanding of these mechanisms supervisor is Dr Michael Ridding The trip was made possible after so we can help people with from the School of Molecular and Miss Schabrun won the AUGU/ neurological conditions who fi nd it Biomedical Science. RC Heddle Award in 2007, which diffi cult to carry out everyday tasks enables the University’s doctoral where their hands are involved.” Story by Candy Gibson

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 7 Employer of choice WorkChoices for women expert joins Adelaide For the third year in a row, the University of Adelaide has been named an Employer of Choice for Women. Law One of Australia’s foremost The University was one of experts on labour law has returned only six employers in the State to the University of Adelaide’s recognised as actively “working School of Law. for women”. I’ve always Professor Andrew Stewart is the The Employer of Choice for new John Bray Professor of Law at Women citation is awarded considered that the University of Adelaide, and also annually by the Federal academics have works for law fi rm Piper Alderman as Government’s Equal Opportunity an important a Legal Consultant. for Women in the Workplace An Oxford law graduate, he held Agency (EOWA). The citation part to play in positions at the universities of recognises employers that are contributing Adelaide and Sydney before moving “Anyone who wants to understand supportive of women through to public to Flinders University in 1991 where the impact the WorkChoices reforms policies and practices that have a he helped to establish the law have had, or the changes the Rudd positive outcome for women and debate and program. Government is proposing to make for the organisation as a whole. understanding “I guess in one sense I’m returning this year, will benefi t from this book,” “The University of Adelaide ‘home’ to the University of Adelaide he said. aims to provide a quality working in their areas after being away for so many years,” Besides completing his new book, environment that understands of expertise. Professor Stewart said. Professor Stewart has also been and promotes women’s needs,” “The time was right for the busy analysing and explaining the said the Vice-Chancellor and change, and I’m very pleased to new government’s fi rst tranche of President, Professor James have been appointed to such a legislative changes to the Workplace Above right: prestigious chair.” Relations Act. McWha. Professor Andrew Stewart “To be named an Employer of Professor Stewart’s main At the request of the Senate Choice for Women for the third Photo by Mark Zed, interests are in employment law and Committee that was asked to review year in a row shows that we are Aspect Photographics workplace relations, contract law and the Transition to Forward with moving in the right direction. It intellectual property. He has written Fairness Bill, Professor Stewart gave shows that the University is a leading textbooks in the areas of evidence as to the effect of the Bill, leader in providing professional labour law and intellectual property, and his views were referred to by all opportunities for women, and as well as numerous articles for parties in the parliamentary debate that we are at the forefront of Australian and international journals. that followed. gender, equity and diversity His most recent book is Stewart’s He has also been widely quoted in practices among employers in Guide to Employment Law, the media, both locally and nationally, this State.” published by Federation Press. as to the likely impact of the changes. To be named an Employer of Providing the most up-to-date and “I’ve always considered that Choice for Women also showed comprehensive information about academics have an important part to a commitment to continual Australia’s workplace laws and play in contributing to public debate improvement on gender, equity regulatory systems, Stewart’s Guide and understanding in their areas and diversity issues, Professor to Employment Law is aimed at HR of expertise. It’s something I look McWha said. managers, union offi cials, lawyers, forward to continuing to do in my educators and students. new role,” he said. “Our Gender, Equity and Diversity Committee continues to play an active role in helping to shape the University’s policies and practices for the benefi t of our staff and the University community as a whole,” he said. The University of Adelaide supports and promotes many fl exible work practices, including: • 26 weeks paid maternity leave, After 35 years, Lanes has a new name ect – with the option to take up to – to better refl Lane Print & Post two years of leave in total; exactly what it is we do. Printing, • A 12-week ‘bonus’ option within the 26 weeks of paid is the largest privately owned dedicated Lane Print & Post Company in South Australia. We also have maternity leave; Mailing and Distribution , we really • Special guidelines for staff offi ces in Sydney and Jakarta as we like to spread and ourselvesSA Life around. University of Adelaide who need to take care of With clients like the children. don’t need to be introduced, but rather reintroduce ourselves – so the next time you pick up this publication or the incredibly successful. For more information about Lane Print & Post (and beautifully printed) SA Life Magazine, you will now know that it Equity and Diversity at the was printed and delivered by University of Adelaide, visit: www.adelaide.edu.au/hr/equity/ South Australia’s largest privately owned dedicated Printing, Mailing and Distribution Company. Story by David Ellis and speak to an Accountwww.laneprint.com.au Manager about your CALL 8179 9900 next print project.

8 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Anzac spirit needs to be nurtured

Landscape The Anzac Day march isn’t the only been lost due to poor management, issues need to be considered,” Ms Anzac tradition younger generations urbanisation and natural causes. Cockerell said. of Australians should get involved in, However, the few that remain in good Ms Cockerell said the role of the according to a PhD researcher at the condition form valuable heritage community was crucial if Avenues Whenever University of Adelaide. landscapes, with local and national of Honour were to survive as long- Young Australians also have a role signifi cance,” Ms Cockerell said. lasting memorials. community to play in maintaining trees planted A large body of research exists “These avenues were almost support fades in honour of those who have served on the topic of war memorials, but always planned, organised, paid from lack of for their country, said PhD student most investigations have focused on for, and planted by local community Sarah Cockerell. artifi cial structures – few look at trees groups. They symbolise a interest... the Ms Cockerell has been conducting or gardens. community’s grief over the losses of trees are in a major national study of “Avenues “The tree is a commonly used war as well as the community’s pride greatest danger of Honour” – tree avenues that were symbol of life, as well as the cycle of in their people and their town. planted to serve as memorials to life, death and renewal. Therefore, “The survival of Avenues of Honour fallen and returning soldiers. it’s only natural that trees are used is very much dependent on the value At least one Avenue of Honour as long-lasting memorials,” Ms placed on them by local community Above: commemorating the Boer War exists Cockerell said. groups, including schools, churches, PhD student Sarah Cockerell at one of in Australia, in Apsley, Victoria. After In addition to gaining a better RSL branches, and local councils. Adelaide’s best-known the First and Second World Wars, understanding of how many avenues “Whenever community support Avenues of Honour, several hundred avenues were exist and what their condition is, fades from lack of interest or the Alexandra Avenue at planted across the nation. Some – Ms Cockerell’s research has been fading of community memory, the Rose Park but not many – have followed the looking at: threats posed to urban trees are in greatest danger. Korean and Vietnam wars, and trees, management practices, the “New generations of Australians Photo by David Ellis some older avenues have had trees cultural and historical signifi cance have a role to play in better added onto them as further confl icts of the trees, their horticultural understanding the Avenues of have arisen. signifi cance, and what the future Honour in their area and helping to There are currently more than holds for such memorials. maintain, restore or renew them – 300 Avenues of Honour throughout She is also looking into the just as young Australians are helping Australia, with the earliest known problems associated with replacing to reinvigorate the all-important World War I example planted in 1916 dying or diseased trees. Anzac Day marches,” she said. in Eurack, Victoria, and the largest “If avenues are completely Ms Cockerell is a joint student to be found in Ballarat. More than replaced, what signifi cance do the within the School of Earth & half of the avenues can be found in new trees inherit from the old? Do Environmental Sciences and the Victoria, with South Australia home the trees only have signifi cance School of Architecture, Landscape to more than 30 of them. because of their age, or can historical Architecture & Urban Design. “Over the years, many of the value transfer from the old to avenues around Australia have the new? These and many other Story by David Ellis

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 9 Love, addiction and death: real-life ingredients for new novel

Creative If author Rachel Hennessy had Joe Cinque – by injecting him with experience” with The Quakers, both written a novel about coincidence an overdose of heroin. during her Masters studies and with Writing and fate, it’s unlikely she would The Quakers stems from Rachel’s her publisher. have been able to contrive the kinds questions: who was this girl, and “It’s been a good learning process of events that have unfolded in her how might she have ended up having written the novel through It’s been a good real life. where she did? the Creative Writing program at the Within the space of a few short The fi ctionalised account focuses University of Adelaide,” she said. learning process years, the Creative Writing student on the character of Lucy. On the “The sense of support that you having written at the University of Adelaide has night of her 28th birthday and the get in the program is excellent, and the novel through become an award-winning, fi rst-time day of her friend’s funeral, Lucy tries I’ve made a lot of friends out of it. published novelist. to make sense of the deaths that “I had never really involved myself the Creative Her fi rst novel, The Quakers, was have defi ned her life. She goes back in any kind of writing community Writing program written as part of her Masters in to the day of an earthquake when before I started my studies. In the at the University Creative Writing studies and went she became friends with a group of program, you really get a sense of on to win the $10,000 unpublished outsiders who named themselves community with the other writers.” of Adelaide manuscript award at the 2006 The Quakers. At the centre of this Rachel is currently writing her Adelaide Festival of Arts. Her book, group is the beautiful Narinda, second novel as part of her PhD now published by Wakefi eld Press, whose energy draws both men and studies. She is also one of the Main photo: was launched during this year’s women towards her. writers whose work is featured in Rachel Hennessy Writers’ Week. The Quakers is described as this month’s performances by the The Quakers draws its inspiration “a compelling love story where University of Adelaide Theatre Guild Photo by David Ellis from Rachel’s real-life high school friendship becomes obsession and (see story on page 11). encounter with a girl called Anu addictions lead to murder”. Singh. Rachel sat next to Anu in her Written entirely separate to – and, Story by David Ellis religious education class at school; at the time, with no knowledge The Quakers by Rachel she was friendly with Anu, and of – author Helen Garner’s own Hennessy sells for a was even at her house during the book about the Anu Singh story, recommended retail price of Newcastle earthquake in 1989. Joe Cinque’s Consolation, Rachel’s $24.95. Thanks to Wakefi eld Anu predicted she would have a fi rst novel has received widespread Press, the Adelaidean has one fairytale relationship with her fi rst praise and has been shortlisted for a free copy of The Quakers to love and live happily ever after. number of major writing prizes. give away to a lucky reader. Years later, Anu would go on to be Rachel, who is now studying for To win, be the fi rst to call convicted of the manslaughter of her PhD in Creative Writing, said (08) 8303 5414. her boyfriend – Canberra engineer she had had an “amazing editorial

10 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 New writers create a scene

What happens when some of the University of Adelaide’s most talented Creative Writing students join forces with the Theatre Guild in its 70th anniversary year? The result is Page #1, Scene#1 ... the end and other stories. To be performed in the Little Theatre this month, Page #1, Scene #1 is the result of a new and fruitful collaboration between the Theatre Guild and the University’s Creative Writing discipline, which began last year with a pilot project called Write to Stage. In Write to Stage, a small ensemble of actors directed by Michael Allen took three pieces of writing by Creative Writing students – a poem, a Acclaimed novelist monologue and part of a short story – and reinterpreted them for performance. All three pieces were performed in the Barr Smith is writer-in-residence Library’s historic Reading Room at the University’s Open Day in 2007. Creative Multi award-winning novelist Eva “The Writer-In-Residency program The success of that project Sallis has become the University of aims to support notable writers in inspired the Guild to repeat and Writing Adelaide’s fi rst Writer-in-Residence. their creative work while making extend it for the 2008 season. A As Writer-in-Residence until their abilities and experience range of intriguing new material June 2008, Dr Sallis will take available to students in the Creative has been added, the show has Eva Sallis is a on a teaching and mentorship Writing program,” said Professor been expanded in length, and generous and commitment for students on Nicholas Jose, University of now takes the form of a three- the University’s Creative Writing Adelaide’s Chair of Creative Writing. night season in a formal theatre inspiring mentor program, as well as working on “Eva Sallis is a generous and space, again directed by whose creative her current novel. She will present inspiring mentor whose creative Michael Allen. insight and a graduate seminar and run a insight and professional experience Featuring the writing of Henry workshop in conjunction with the have a great deal to offer our Ashley-Brown, John De Laine, professional SA Writers’ Centre called ‘Three students. Many books have Rachel Hennessy, Stephen experience Tasks for the Emerging Writer’. entered the world already with Lawrence and Heather Taylor Dr Sallis, who completed her PhD an acknowledgement of Eva’s Johnson, Page #1, Scene#1 have a great at the University of Adelaide in 1996, nurturing role.” involves bananas, some very deal to offer our won the 1997 Vogel Literary Award Dr Sallis said: “I am really odd sales monologues, a students and the Nita May Dobbie Award in delighted to be actively contributing disappearance in a cupboard, a 1999 with her fi rst novel Hiam. She to this program again. Working train trip to eternity, a seriously also completed a Masters at the with writers in such an intensive black car journey, Eve’s second Above: University of Adelaide in 1991. hothouse environment is inspiring.” sin, and someone called Estelle. Dr Eva Sallis Mahjar won the 2004 Steele Rudd Dr Sallis is co-founder of “It is always so exciting hearing Literary Award and her latest work Australians Against Racism (AAR), how your work is interpreted of fi ction, The Marsh Birds, set in an organisation that seeks to raise by other people and, in theatre, Iraq, Syria, Indonesia, Australia public awareness of human rights you get the interpretation of and New Zealand, won the Asher and social justice through media, a director, actors and a live Literary Award 2005 and was arts and education. audience,” said Creative Writing shortlisted for The Age Book of the She coordinates Ozarabic, an PhD student Rachel Hennessy. Year 2005; NSW Premiers Literary Arabic language course for primary There will be three Awards, Christina Stead Prize for school children, and is involved performances only: Thursday 10, Fiction 2006; National Fiction Award, with an Aboriginal language course Friday 11 and Saturday 12 April, Festival Awards for Literature 2006; hosted at Tauondi College. She at 7.30pm in the Little Theatre and the Commonwealth Writers is working with elders on editing (The Cloisters, off Victoria Drive), Prize, Best Book South-East Asia and publishing Adnyamathanha North Terrace Campus, University of Adelaide. and Pacifi c Region 2006. language and literary resources. Other works include novels AAR’s fi rst such publication, Lily All tickets $15, available from The City of Sealions and Fire Fire, Neville’s Adnyamathanha Ngawarla, the Theatre Guild on 8303 5999. and a book of literary criticism on is just out. the Arabian Nights, Sheherazade Book online at: through the Looking Glass: the www.adelaide.edu.au/theatreguild Metamorphosis of the 1001 Nights. Story by Robyn Mills

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 11 WOMAD broadcast is just the ticket Radio Adelaide

More than one million people are believed to have tuned in to free community radio coverage of one of Australia’s best-loved music festivals, WOMADelaide. The University of Adelaide’s community radio station, Radio Adelaide, was on site at Adelaide’s Botanic Park to provide coverage of the annual WOMADelaide world music festival. the sold-out Saturday from 5.30pm Radio Adelaide has had a long Left to right: This year, the festival featured to 11.30pm. More than 30 diverse association with the WOMADelaide Musician Jake Savona from more than 400 artists from more performances were presented live festival. Ms Welch said this year’s dub reggae outfi t Mista Savona, Womadelaide than 20 countries – living up to its on radio. coverage was bigger than ever, 2008 LIVE! presenter Systa status of bringing the public the “More than one million listeners “with six hours non-stop live-to-air, BB and Mista Savona singer “sounds of the planet”. around the country were tuned as well as podcasts, interviews and Jonique, originally from The festival proved so popular in, as the program was broadcast pictures live from Botanic Park, both French Guyana that, for the fi rst time in its 16-year nationally via two satellite networks, on stage and behind the scenes”. history, WOMADelaide sold out the Community Radio Network The production and presentation Photo by Kat McGuffi e of its allocation of three-day and the CAAMA Radio Network,” team, coordinated by Radio weekend passes, three days before said the Executive Producer of Adelaide, comprised talented opening night. It also sold out of Womadelaide 2008 LIVE! and broadcasters from stations around its allocation of Saturday day/night Radio Adelaide Station Manager, the country, including presenters passes. Deborah Welch. Seth Jordan (from Sydney’s 2SER), This put Radio Adelaide in the “The program delivered some of Roger Holdsworth and Systa BB box seat to give those who missed the festival’s best music to listeners (both from Melbourne’s 3PBS), out on tickets a real taste of around Australia, including some of Steve Hodder (CAAMA, Alice WOMADelaide. the country’s most remote areas, as Springs) and Radio Adelaide’s In a program called Womadelaide well as to those listeners in Adelaide Michelle Smith. 2008 LIVE! listeners could tune into who missed out on a ticket.” www.radio.adelaide.edu.au

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12 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Drug program targets Vietnam HIV epidemic Pharmacology

Every day, 100 people in Vietnam Senior project offi cer from the “The drug problem is no worse in The drug problem are newly infected with HIV, WHO Centre Dr Peter Lawrinson Vietnam than in most other South- according to that country’s Ministry said Vietnam’s HIV/AIDS epidemic East Asian countries, but compared is no worse in of Health. These include injecting was being largely driven by blood- to Australia, the rate of intravenous Vietnam than drug users, female sex workers borne virus transmission through drug users that are HIV-positive is in most other and homosexuals. injecting drug use, principally heroin. very high,” Dr Lawrinson said. In 2007 alone, an estimated “The effective treatment of The relatively low Australian South-East Asian 293,000 people in the South East heroin dependence offered through statistics are credited to a long history countries, but Asian country were living with the methadone treatment programs of methadone maintenance treatment compared to human immunodefi ciency virus. affords an ideal opportunity to along with needle and syringe In a bid to tackle the epidemic, the reduce the risk of HIV transmission,” programs implemented in the 1980s, Australia, the rate Vietnamese Government has turned Dr Lawrinson said. which curtailed an AIDS epidemic. of intravenous drug to the University of Adelaide’s The Vietnamese Government “Australia has only 1-2% of users that are HIV- Discipline of Pharmacology for help. launched a national methadone intravenous drug users who are Epidemiologist Dr Ha Viet Dong, treatment program in March as part HIV-positive, thanks to the harm positive is very high a Family Health International (FHI) of a range of treatment options for reduction approach launched program offi cer based in Ho Chi dependent heroin users. Dr Dong two decades ago, along with the Minh City, has just completed a will be among the fi rst to evaluate Grim Reaper campaign.” Above: Street scene in three-month placement at the its effectiveness, using his newly The WHO Centre, established in Ho Chi Minh City University. Dr Dong returns to acquired skills. 2003 at the University of Adelaide, Photo by Craig Narroway Vietnam this month armed with new “It is crucial that we can has developed research-based skills in monitoring and evaluating objectively demonstrate the collaborations with many countries methadone treatment programs. benefi ts of methadone treatment throughout the world interested in Inset: Dr Ha Viet Dong Dr Dong’s placement has been for Vietnamese heroin-dependent evidence-based treatment. sponsored by the World Health people,” Dr Lawrinson said. Dr Dong is the second person to Photo by Candy Gibson Organization (WHO) in conjunction A pilot study of the WHO Centre’s be awarded a WHO Fellowship to with Drug & Alcohol Services South evaluation kit in seven developed the Centre in the past four years. Australia (DASSA). countries – Thailand, China, In 2006, a female psychiatrist from The Discipline of Pharmacology, in Indonesia, Poland, the Ukraine, Iran Mongolia spent three months working association with DASSA, is a WHO- and Lithuania – showed that the in the Discipline of Pharmacology. accredited Collaborative Centre for methadone treatment program led Research into the Treatment of Drug to signifi cant reductions in illicit drug and Alcohol Problems. use within six months. Story by Candy Gibson

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 13 Renowned architect is visiting professor

Celebrated international architect Hijjas Kasturi (pictured) has been appointed Visiting Professor in the University of Adelaide’s School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design. Professor Kasturi made his fi rst offi cial visit as Visiting Professor over three days in March, spending time with students and giving an evening lecture on the latest projects in South-East Asia and the Middle East of his international practice, Kasturi Architects, Senator rejoins politics Malaysia. “The School is honoured to have this noted designer in our midst,” said Professor Nancy – as a researcher Pollock-Ellwand, Head, School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design. Senator Natasha Stott Despoja “These links are of great benefi t “He spent one-on-one time Politics has become a Visiting Research to the University, our students with the students, providing Fellow at the University of Adelaide. and staff. This complements the valued studio criticism, and “I am pleased to announce that University’s academic expertise gave an inspiring lecture on This is an Senator Natasha Stott Despoja and is an important part of our his recent projects. has accepted an offer to become research, teaching and community “The presence of such a honorary position, a Visiting Research Fellow with the engagement efforts. venerated architect in the recognising University’s School of History & “Throughout her career, School is immensely instructive the depth of Politics,” said the Vice-Chancellor Senator Stott Despoja has made to students and staff alike, and and President, Professor James an outstanding contribution to we look forward to many more experience McWha. Australian politics and education. visits over the coming months Senator Stott “This is an honorary position, We are very excited about her and years.” Despoja brings recognising the depth of experience involvement in Politics at the Professor Kasturi also visited Senator Stott Despoja brings to the University of Adelaide,” he said. the University of Adelaide to the Discipline Discipline of Politics.” In 1995, at the age of 26, Natasha in December when he was of Politics As a Visiting Research Fellow, Stott Despoja was the youngest awarded the title Doctor of Senator Stott Despoja will conduct woman to enter Federal Parliament, the University (honoris causa) research in Politics and engage with as a Senator for South Australia. in recognition of his service to Above: students and staff at the University From 2001-2002 she was Leader of society and the profession of Senator Natasha Stott Despoja at Henley Beach, of Adelaide. the . architecture. Adelaide The University of Adelaide has She has recently become His distinctive architecture had a long association with Senator her party’s longest-serving includes some of Kuala Photo by Brett Hartwig, Stott Despoja, who is a graduate parliamentarian, with more than 12 Lumpur’s iconic skyscrapers courtesy of The Australian of the University (Bachelor of Arts years of service in the Senate. and his work has received 1991) and a former President of the Senator Stott Despoja announced many honours, including the Students’ Association. in October 2006 that she would Tokyo Creation Award in 1998 “The University has many links not recontest at the 2007 Federal and the Malaysian Architects with individuals who have a depth of election. Her term in the Senate Institute Gold Medal in 2001. experience and expertise in specifi c expires on 30 June 2008. fi elds,” Professor McWha said. Story by David Ellis

14 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Natalie benefi ts from overseas experience

Music

Flautist Natalie Nowak is that composers Lowell Liebermann and A highlight of the trip was her I love both rare breed – a talented musician Robert Beaser. At the conclusion interview with Lowell Liebermann, who is also blessed with superior of her studies Natalie will present one of America’s most frequently teaching and organisational skills and marketing selected works by these composers performed and commissioned performing initiative to boot. in two recitals and hopes to one day composers. “It was wonderful to because The 22-year-old, who is in her record them. fi nally meet the man behind the fi nal year of a Masters in Music In New York she organised a music I have been playing, music each offers its Performance with the University’s lesson with Paula Robison, the that so many others have enjoyed in own rewards Elder Conservatorium of Music, fi rst American to win the Geneva Australia as well,” she said. returned from the United States in International Competition, one Natalie was also granted an late January after a whirlwind trip to of the world’s oldest and most audience with Robert Beaser, Above: Natalie Nowak meet some of the world’s leading prestigious music competitions. composer of the Variations for Flute composers and fl autists. “Her recordings have inspired me and Piano, which she performed for Photo by Candy Gibson In the space of just four weeks greatly. She has such a wealth of him. “He gave me some very useful Natalie criss-crossed the country knowledge and is one of the most feedback, particularly in regard to from New York to Louisiana, back to highly regarded and respected fl ute the subtleties I was missing, and Boston and across to New Jersey, players in America,” Natalie said. I came away with a new level of conducting interviews with – and She also organised a lesson with insight into the music.” receiving lessons from – the likes New York-based Susan Rotholz on Natalie received funding for the of well-known fl autists Dr Katherine the Variations for Flute and Piano, a trip from the University of Adelaide, Kemler, Paula Robison, Susan piece commissioned by Susan for Foundation for Young Australians, Rotholz and composers Lowell her debut recital at Carnegie Hall. Helpmann Academy and Performers’ Liebermann and Robert Beaser. In Louisiana, Natalie met up with Trust Foundation. In between, Natalie also managed Dr Katherine Kemler for a lesson She is due to fi nish her Masters at to squeeze in a visit to Powell on the Sonata for Flute and Piano, the end of 2008 and hopes to secure Flutes, the world’s leading producer and the Soliloquy for Solo Flute. an orchestral job and continue her of professional quality fl utes and “I gained a much better technical teaching work in Adelaide. piccolos. understanding and approach to “I love both teaching and The whole trip was organised playing these works, thanks to performing because each offers off her own bat, including the her guidance.” its own rewards,” she said. “My budgeting, applications for funding, In Boston, Natalie visited three United States trip has also given me fl ights, accommodation and teeing fl ute factories – Powell, Brannen and a taste for more international study up meetings with all the musicians. Nagahara – to learn about each step which I would like to pursue down Natalie’s postgraduate studies of the crafting process and how the track.” at the Elder Conservatorium custom model fl utes differ from the are centred on the works of US intermediate range. Story by Candy Gibson

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 15 Development & Alumni Events

MBA AA Event: Annual General Meeting and Election of 2008 Executive Committee Date: Monday 31 March Time: 5.45pm (doors lock at 6.00pm) Venue: 13th Floor, Business School, 10 Pulteney St, Adelaide RSVP: Wednesday 26 March to Carol McHugh, Admissions Executive Offi cer, phone (08) 8303 4650 or email: [email protected]

Friends of the University of Adelaide Library Event: “The Diplomatic Gardener. Engineer ahead of his time Richard Schomburgk: explorer and Botanic Garden Director”. A free public talk by Dr Pauline Payne. Desalination and alternative fuels At the offi cial opening of the Tait Chemical Date: Thursday 10 April are not new ideas – just ask the Room in the Engineering North Engineering University of Adelaide’s School of Building, the current Head of Time: 1.05pm Chemical Engineering. School, Professor Keith King, said Venue: Ira Raymond Room, Barr Smith A former Head of Chemical Bob was “instrumental in leading Library, North Terrace Campus Above: Cost: Free and open to the public Mrs Norma Tait with Engineering, Professor Robert and nurturing the development and Professor Keith King in the (Bob) Tait (1917-1997), was known growth of chemical engineering at RSVP: Bookings by Tuesday 8 April to: Robert W. F. Tait Room for his research interest in water the University of Adelaide until his [email protected] or phone (08) 8303 4064 Photo by David Ellis desalination, and served as a retirement on 31 December 1982”. member of the former State Energy He was then accorded the title of Commission to help look into Emeritus Professor. Commerce/Business Above right: School Alumni Professor Bob Tait alternative water resources and fuels. Professor Tait, whose main The School recently named a research interest was in the heat Event: Adrian Morrissy, Owner/ Photo courtesy of the School of Chemical Engineering seminar room in Professor Tait’s transfer of boiling liquids – a Founder of Wok in a Box, tells his story honour – the Robert W. F. Tait Room relevant factor in the operation Date: Wednesday 7 May – acknowledging his enormous of nuclear power generators – Time: 7.00pm contribution to research and remained in close contact with the Venue: Fad Bar, 30 Waymouth education at the University. School until his death in 1997. Street, Adelaide Born in Scotland, Professor Tait His wife, Mrs Norma Tait, was Cost: $20-$30 (to be confi rmed) was a graduate of Edinburgh and among the guests who attended the Birmingham universities. He became opening of the Tait Room, and was RSVP: Booking information to be Professor and Head of Chemical presented with photos of Professor confi rmed. Call Paul on 0433 221 274 for more details. Engineering at the University of Tait taken during his years at the Adelaide in 1963. University.

FREE PUBLIC LECTURE Using ancient DNA to study climate change, mass extinctions, and human evolution

Research Tuesdays – sharing great research with the community Tuesday 8 April at 5.30pm, Professor Alan Cooper

Ancient DNA provides a unique means Venue: to watch evolution occurring in real time. Bonython Hall, North Terrace Campus. By tracking genetic changes in ancient Duration approximately one hour. Admission free. populations we can examine the effects Bookings essential: of major climatic changes on animal Email: [email protected] and plant populations from around the Phone: 8303 3692 world through the last 100,000 years, as well as human impacts and other Further information: evolutionary phenomena such as Visit the University of Adelaide’s Research volcanic eruptions and meteorites. website: www.adelaide.edu.au/research

16 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 From pioneer to page-turner: Dame Roma’s life in print

History Dame Roma Mitchell was a woman “Roma became prominent at a “Everybody who knew Roma of many fi rsts. time when it was most unusual for a has a view about her sex life. Even She was the fi rst female Queen’s woman to do so. I often wondered the plumber. So if we didn’t write Counsel in Australia, the fi rst woman where she got the courage to do anything about it, it would have Roma became in Australia to be appointed a judge in that, and how different it was for her suggested that either we were prominent at a the Supreme Court, the fi rst woman being a woman who was a public ignorant and hadn’t done our job time when it was in Australia to become a university person,” Professor Magarey said. properly, or we hadn’t asked,” Chancellor, and the fi rst female “Another thing that attracted me Professor Magarey said. most unusual Governor of an Australian State. to the project was, quite simply, that “The hardest information to fi nd for a woman to Arguably one of the most signifi cant I liked her. I thought she was an out was about her politics. She do so. I often fi gures in Australian history, her immensely generous person. She always said that she had no interest life is now the subject of a detailed had been a friend and colleague of in politics, but I think that was a way wondered and extensive – and page-turning – one of my uncles and both of my of avoiding the issue.” where she got biography, Roma the First. parents. She wrote to me a letter of Professor Magarey said she was the courage to Roma the First depicts the sources sympathy about my father’s death proud of the biography, which has of Dame Roma’s ambition and on the day that her appointment as received positive reviews across do that achievements, and explores the Governor of South Australia was Australia and was selected for The complexities and contradictions of announced. I think that takes the Advertiser’s Big Book Club. her personal life and her career. It cake! You’d think, wouldn’t you, “I learned a lot in the process, Above from left: asks questions about her sex life and that if you were just made Governor and writing the book was a great Co-authors Dr Kerrie her politics, and also provides a rich you’d be a bit pre-occupied with adventure. We’ve done our best to Round and Adjunct social and historical context for the your own matters!” make it a real page-turner; people Professor Susan Magarey events as they unfold, adding depth Professor Magarey won an tell me it is, so I hope that others to the personal tale. Australian Research Council (ARC) who read it will enjoy it.” Photo by Mick Bradley The biography is co-authored by grant to support the biography two researchers in the University project, and began collaborating Roma the First: A biography of of Adelaide’s Discipline of History, with Dr Kerrie Round, who had co- Dame Roma Mitchell sells for Adjunct Professor Susan Magarey edited the Wakefi eld Companion to a recommended retail price of and Visiting Research Fellow South Australian History. $39.95. Thanks to Wakefi eld Press, Dr Kerrie Round. The biography took fi ve years to the Adelaidean has one free copy Professor Magarey said she wanted research and write, and has now of Roma the First to give away to a to write the biography because Dame been published by Wakefi eld Press. lucky reader. To win, be the fi rst to Roma (who lived from 1913 to 2000) One of the more controversial call (08) 8303 5414. was a pioneer of women in public aspects of the book is its treatment life in Australia. of Dame Roma’s sex life. Story by David Ellis

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 17 Unlocking deadly mysteries of the mind

continued from page 1

“This could also offer a novel therapeutic approach to managing the oedema caused by tumours, and therefore play an important part in helping to save patients’ lives,” he said. The second research question focuses on how cancerous cells enter the central nervous system, because the blood-brain barrier should normally prevent any cells – including cancer cells – from infi ltrating the brain. “We will examine whether neuropeptides play any role in enabling these cancerous cells to cross the blood-brain barrier and facilitate secondary tumour development,” Professor Vink said. These studies are being conducted in collaboration with Associate Professors Alan Nimmo (Pathology) and Mounir Ghabriel (Anatomical Sciences). Four-pronged attack Stroke research This year, the Centre for Neurological Diseases has begun on key health issues two new research projects investigating the role that a specifi c neuropeptide – known as substance P – can play in helping Health Millions of Australians stand to • Nutrition in critical illness to prevent injury and death in benefi t from a new powerhouse (optimising gut function and victims of stroke. research centre at the University nutrition in the intensive care unit). Substance P is a neurotransmitter of Adelaide, which aims to tackle “The CCRE in Nutritional and modulator that appears to be One of the some of the biggest health Physiology is taking a ‘bench to connected with brain haemorrhage. problems facing the nation. “These haemorrhages important bedside’ approach,” said Associate South Australia’s top researchers exacerbate the injury caused by Professor Chris Rayner, of the features of in the fi eld of nutrition have been stroke or brain trauma and are School of Medicine. this research brought together in the new Centre known to signifi cantly increase “Research conducted by the of Clinical Research Excellence mortality and worsen outcome centre is that it centre will provide an evidence base (CCRE) in Nutritional Physiology, in survivors. However, the for dietary and clinical interventions spans several Interventions and Outcomes. mechanisms associated with how that will ultimately translate into disciplines and The centre, supported by a $2 this exacerbation occurs are still improved health and quality of million grant from the National unknown,” Professor Vink said. institutions life for a wide cross-section of “Our lab has evidence to Health & Medical Research Council Australian society. suggest that substance P may play (NHMRC), has been formed by “One of the important features of a major role in the injury process, experts from the University of this research centre is that it spans and the use of antagonists which Adelaide, Royal Adelaide Hospital, several disciplines and institutions. act to block substance P may CSIRO Human Nutrition, Hanson The centre brings together therefore be highly benefi cial in Institute and IMVS, and is based in internationally regarded researchers improving a patient’s outcome.” the University’s School of Medicine. This research is being in the fi eld, whose collective work conducted by School of Medical The CCRE has four main focus areas: will make an enormous contribution to understanding a wide range Sciences PhD students Christine • Diabetes (including the role of the Barry and Dr Tim Kleinig under of health issues associated with gut in blood glucose control); Professor Vink’s supervision. nutrition.” • Obesity (including fast food For more information about the The CCRE consists of eight Chief Centre for Neurological Diseases, consumption; tools for obesity Investigators and several Associate visit: www.health.adelaide.edu.au/ management in primary care; Investigators, and is led by pathology/ long-term effects of low- Professor Michael Horowitz of the carbohydrate diets and other University’s School of Medicine. For more information about nutritional strategies); the Neurosurgical Research For more information about the Foundation, visit: www.nrf.com.au • Nutrition in the elderly (nutritional, centre, visit: www.adelaide.edu.au/ behavioural, and pharmacological ccre-nutrition/ Story by David Ellis interventions to reduce deaths and avoid hospital admissions); Story by David Ellis

18 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Professor Charles Bodman Rae and Gabriella Smart

Musical vision helps to keep festival spirit alive

Music

Two Elder Conservatorium of been my vision for many years to Other works include 1960s Elder As a pianist Music staff are helping to maintain establish a festival of this kind in Conservatorium composer Henk Adelaide’s festival spirit with key Adelaide showcasing Australian Badings’s Capriccio performed specialising in roles in a new event, the Adelaide works alongside international by Tiziana Pintus as well as the performance Contemporary Music Festival. icons,” said Ms Smart. performances by Telesto Duo from of new music, The weekend festival, during 4-6 Ms Smart has recently returned Amsterdam (Australian premiere of April at the Adelaide Festival Centre, from a solo concert tour of Europe Gubaidalina’s sonata for violin and it has been my presents new classical music and China where she performed cello) and Gabriella Smart (Willem vision for many from Australia, Europe and Asia, premieres of works by Australian Jeths’s Piano Trio). years to establish featuring works from the 1950s and Chinese composers. The fi nal concert of the Festival, through to premieres by emerging The Festival will open with a Asian Songlines, will be held on a festival of this and established Australian and Gala Concert on Friday 4 April at Sunday 6 April at 2.30pm and kind in Adelaide international composers. 7.30pm with the Grainger Quartet, includes world premieres by Korean Gabriella Smart, who teaches Gabriella Smart, and the Telesto Duo composer In-Sun Cho and Adelaide piano at the Elder Conservatorium, performing works by well-known composer Anne Cawrse performed is the Festival Director and will also radio personality and composer by Trio d’anche Suave in their be performing. Andrew Ford, Ihos Opera artistic Australian debut. The University of Adelaide’s director Constantine Koukias and Tickets for the Festival are $35 Elder Professor of Music, Professor other works from the 1970s. adults/$25 concession for the Gala Charles Bodman Rae, will chair On Saturday 5 April at 2.30pm, Concert and $25/$18 for the Tour a free forum on Sunday 6 April the Festival continues with Tour de Force and Asian Songlines, or at 1pm, featuring an informal de Force featuring soprano Greta $60/$43 for all three concerts. discussion between composers Bradman performing Tristram Cary’s The Forum is free. Book through whose works are being performed semi-staged work I am Here, where BASS on 131 246 or online at during the festival. the singer performs inside a frame www.bass.net.au “As a pianist specialising in the specially designed by Adelaide artist performance of new music, it has Bert Flugelman. Story by Robyn Mills

Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008 Adelaidean 19 Cello bares its soul at new festival Music

For 10 days in April, Elder Hall will Elder Conservatorium Chamber become the hub for Australia’s fi rst Orchestra, as well as guest pianist international cello festival. Caroline Almonte. The Adelaide International Cello Claire Oremland, Elder Hall Festival (11-20 April) features a wide Concert Manager, said the range of events aimed at giving the International Cello Festival was a public a better understanding of and perfect opportunity for music lovers appreciation for the cello. to engage with music and the Hosted by the University of music-making process. Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium “Back-to-back activities will thrill of Music, the festival is supported audiences morning, noon and by the Adelaide Symphony night as internationally renowned Orchestra (ASO). musicians will feature in recitals, “Musicians and music lovers chamber music, concertos, around the world thrill to the magic masterclasses, forums and much, of the cello as a great stringed much more,” Ms Oremland said. instrument with real personality “Concert programs will be a and soul,” said the festival’s Artistic veritable feast, ranging from the Director, Janis Laurs, Principal Cellist great and much-loved classics with the ASO and cello lecturer at of the cello repertoire through to the Elder Conservatorium. modern and innovative works. “The festival will be a unique “This includes two Australian opportunity – the fi rst in Australia premieres and Crouching Tiger – – to celebrate this wonderful Tan Dun’s concerto for cello and instrument, the rich repertoire chamber orchestra known to most written for it, the musicians who from the fi lm Crouching Tiger, master it, and even the art of cello- Hidden Dragon.” making.” Other highlights of the Among the festival’s wealth of live International Cello Festival at Elder music is the special Cellos at Lunch Hall include a daily Twilight Series concert mini-series in Elder Hall. of concerts, with many local and Every weekday between 11–18 international guest artists including April at 1.10pm, Elder Hall will the Australian String Quartet, and present hour-long concerts featuring four Evening Series concerts, artists such as: Lu Bing Xia and Wu including Natalie Clein performing Dai Dai from Singapore; Nicholas one of the most loved of all Altstaedt from Germany; Frenchman concertos – the Elgar Cello Concerto Michel Strauss; Natalie Clein – and world-renowned cellist Ralph from England; Chinese/Australian Kirshbaum, who will be joined by Li-Wei; and Adelaide’s very own pianist Kathy Selby. rising global stars, Pei-Jee and, The fi nal Cello Extravaganza will Pei-Sian Ng. occur in Elder Hall on Saturday Staff and students of the Elder 19 April. This concert will feature Conservatorium are an integral Le-Wei performing on a newly part of the lunch hour recitals, made cello, the result of the which feature pianists David Cello Challenge being held at Lockett, Rodney Smith, Lucinda the Migration Museum during Collins, Diana Weekes and the the festival.

Photo by Randy Larcombe

Tickets to Cellos at Lunch are $6, available at the door from 12.30pm each day from 11-18 April. Special subscription passes are also available – for more information contact the Concert Manager on (08) 8303 5925.

For Cellos at Lunch program details, visit the Elder Conservatorium website: www.music.adelaide.edu.au

Check the Festival Guide for details of other sessions. For more information about the Adelaide International Cello Festival, visit: www.adelaidecellofestival.com

20 Adelaidean Volume 17 | Number 2 | April 2008