Siri-ous Business Meet Karen Jacobsen, Australia’s most remarkable voice

BIG IDEAS, SMALL BUSINESS The micro-finance expert changing lives

LIFE-SAVING STUDY One step closer to a malaria vaccine and treatment WELCOME

COVER STORY The technically perfect tone of jazz-trained Karen Jacobsen Pages 4–5

6 Digging for Clues Researcher Jon Olley in the search for Daniel Morcombe's killer

7 Walking a Path Less Taken Doctor James St John is using stem cell research to tackle paralysis 10 Griffith’s Sporting Heart A VISION OF INFLUENCE Our connections to the Commonwealth Games go back decades As Griffith University enters its fifth Such as Dr Adam Brumm, from the 15 China Vaccine Trial decade since classes commenced in 1975 Centre of Human Evolution, who created An international partnership could save millions of lives it is timely to reflect on the realisation a global buzz when he and his fellow of a vision. Griffith’s mission to be a researchers released their findings about 18 Adapting to the New university of influence in Australia and the origins of the human species, dating World of Work the Asia-Pacific has never been more ancestors back to 700,000 years ago. Planning ahead for the exciting evident than it is right now. Or Dr James St John who is leading careers that don't yet exist Our inspiring staff, students and research at the Clem Jones Centre for 20 When Art Turns Activist alumni have each played an essential part Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research How the world is turning to public in the broadening and deepening of our that could repair spinal cord injuries and art in times of grief and sorrow impact and engagement across the globe. have paralysed people walking again. Griffith is now firmly placed in the top And our students are making 24 Griffith News Highlights three percent of universities worldwide, their impact on Asia even before Snap shots from all corners with significant recognition in all major they graduate. of the University international rankings. We have seven current New Colombo 27 Shark Reality of Live TV Our teachers are recognised as the Plan scholars abroad, including Amarina The Griffith alumnist on duty best in Australia; we have some of the Smith, the first Indigenous recipient the day the shark attacked brightest students and alumni making of the scholarship. their place in the world and the findings When it comes to being a university Globe Trotter’s 28 of our researchers are breathtaking. of influence, sometimes it is overtly spelt Career Advantage So it is fitting when we tell the out for us. Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor 30 countries in 3 years gives Griffith Story, that the word ‘remarkable’ Lesley Chenoweth was named as one Peta Wilton a global perspective comes to mind. Repeatedly. of Australia’s Top 10 Most Influential 30 A Question of Origin Over the coming months the position Women for her work in the social The Research Centre for Human of the University will be defined by services area, particularly through Evolution rewriting our beginnings this word. our Logan campus. The new positioning will be introduced Across our research, our teaching, 32 Speaking Up For Change and supported by a broad-based our campuses, our students and our Law graduate Chris Eigeland addressing the United Nations marketing campaign. It is equally a graduates we see a dynamic collective statement of what Griffith has achieved force that truly represents a university 34 Looking Forward, over the last 41 years and an aspiration of remarkable influence. And we know Giving Back towards the high mark we set ourselves that there is even more to come. Becoming a donor is a special in the future. way of making a difference There is no shortage of remarkable Professor Ian O'Connor stories throughout the Griffith community. Vice Chancellor and President

COVER IMAGE: Karen Jacobsen, a Queensland Conservatorium graduate, is the voice of Siri Griffith Alumni and Community Magazine is published by the Office of Marketing and and “Australian Karen” in our GPS. Communications in partnership with the Office of Development and Alumni. Griffith University Nathan campus, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, Qld, 4111 Australia. Griffith University Gold Coast campus, Parklands Drive, Qld, 4222 Australia. ENQUIRIES: Office of Marketing and Communications, +61 7 3735 7818 CRICOS No: 00233E ISSN 1839-4051 griffith.edu.au/omc 3 TEACHING

THE STAR MAKER

Irene Bartlett has trained some of Australia’s best voices, including Eurovision contestant Dami Im. Lauren Marino meets her.

As one of Australia’s most talented and versatile vocalists, ARIA award-winner Katie Noonan knows how to make outstanding music. And, she says, a great teacher is vital. “I can’t underestimate the importance of a good teacher,” she says. “Teachers bring confidence, a sense of self-worth, and they teach you of course, but it’s so much more. It’s how they make you feel. They give you confidence to follow your path in life and in music.” Katie studied at Queensland Singer Katie Noonan is a former student Griffith teacher Irene Bartlett has trained Conservatorium 20 years ago with of Irene’s. Credit Justin Nicholas some of Australia’s best singers Dr Irene Bartlett—the very same teacher who has helped shape the talents of some “the first instrument”, is one that now “Nothing I do gives them talent, of the country’s most popular voices, attracts some of the best emerging that’s their parents, God or good luck!” such as Megan Washington, voices in Australia. Irene says. “But that small time, those Kristin Berardi, Elly Hoyt and Dami Im. “Very quickly I can size up whether few years that I have with them, if I can Irene’s students have been recipients there is something special in someone somehow be a mentor through their of seven ARIA Awards, the Freedman and I saw that particularly in Dami Im. journey and make things a bit clearer Jazz Fellowship, the Montreaux There was something so pure and so for them, that’s the part that just Jazz Festival international vocalist honest about her singing,” Irene says. warms my heart.” competition, six James Morrison This same voice was recently given Generations in Jazz Scholarships, and two a worldwide audience of more than Watch a video about Churchill Fellowships. Now, she can add 200 million, when she performed her Irene Bartlett’s work at Eurovision to the list, after Dami came Eurovision song Sound of Silence. griffith.edu.au/alumni/bartlett an unprecedented second place in the “Irene has been a great mentor. 2016 contest. I feel like I’m so lucky and blessed It’s quite the career for a woman who to have had such a caring and initially baulked at the idea of teaching. competent teacher, “I was a professional performer because I couldn’t from a very young age and I learned what have anybody better I know about music by doing,” she says. who would equip me to “For 25 years I was a doing up to six maximise my potential,” gigs a week, whatever it took, cabaret, Dami says. band work, television. Teaching was Despite all the praise never really on the radar, it was all and the obvious results about performing.” from her teaching, Yet it was this life experience that Irene remains humble made her such an ideal candidate for when reflecting on the a vocal teaching role at Queensland role she has played. Conservatorium. Irene’s approach to training the voice, which she calls

Dami Im, who was runner-up in the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest, says teacher Irene Bartlett was a great mentor

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION COVER STORY 4

OUR MOST REMARKABLE VOICE 5 COVER STORY

It takes a technically perfect tone to hold an audience of 400 million every day, but jazz-trained Griffith graduate Karen Jacobsen has just that, writes Lauren Marino.

It’s a voice that speaks to most After high school, she moved to “My friend Nadia called me and said of us each day, as she lives in our Brisbane to attend university and says she had bought her husband one of those pockets and on our dashboards. it was a move that made her initially new GPS things and while they were “Australian Karen” is so familiar feel like “a fish out of water”. driving, they decided to turn it over she’s almost part of the family. “I was a classically trained singer and to the Australian voice and they knew Through our GPS, she helps us to reach piano player who loved pop music and instantly who it was. She said to her our destination, and as Siri in our iPhones I knew nothing about jazz,” she says. husband, ‘Oh no, I gave you Karen she’s happy to answer questions, “I was fortunate to have an incredible Jacobsen for Christmas!’” read our emails and make calls. teacher who was directly responsible And so it began. It didn’t take long But for Queensland Conservatorium for my transition from being a student for others to recognise Karen’s voice Griffith University graduate Karen to becoming a professional musician— and for the spotlight to turn her way. Jacobsen, the job she now loves and he really took me under his wing. “They wanted to tell me their GPS is recognised for worldwide, was one stories, they wanted to tell me about all that didn’t even exist when she went the fabulous trips we’d taken together— to university. sometimes they would even apologise “It was so unexpected,” she says, People wanted to tell for yelling at me or strangling me! as she shakes her head in disbelief, me their GPS stories… But it’s just so delightful.” while sitting on the very same stage about all the fabulous Karen is certainly no stranger to where she once performed as a student trips we’d taken together. the concept of “recalculating”. As well studying jazz in the late 1980s. as having one of the most recognisable “To go from being a child who wanted voices in the country, she is a mother, to one day hear their voice on the radio, wife, business owner, international speaker, to ending up being heard on more than “To have a member of the faculty recording artist and concert performer. 400 million devices around the world is be so caring and supportive and just With success many could only something I could never have imagined.” really committed to helping me dream about, she laughs Unsurprisingly, her voice is confident move into a professional status— when asked if she and poised, but most importantly, that was extraordinary.” has reached her it’s comforting. Much of the huge success After finishing her degree, destination. of “Australian Karen” can be put down Karen enjoyed great success in Sydney “In some to how quickly you feel at ease in her for 10 years before she took the leap ways I feel presence. It really is like talking to an and moved to New York in 2000. like, wow, old friend. “Shortly after, I had a call from an I’ve done She was also selected to sing the agent to say they had a client looking some things. national anthem before the State of for a native Australian female voice-over I’ve just released Origin rugby league game in Brisbane artist living in the North East of the United my ninth album, in June, in front of 50,000 spectators States, which was very specific, but when my second book and 2.3 million watching on television. I read that brief, I thought, ‘Well, that job has been published, Karen, who was raised in Mackay, is mine, that’s a description of me!’ and I’m travelling says she knew exactly what she wanted “I went along to the audition and the world speaking to do when she was seven years old. they had me speak some phrases like, and singing on amazing While watching TV in her family living ‘At the next intersection turn left’ stages, meeting room she saw something that had and ‘You have reached your destination’ incredible people. a profound effect. A familiar sight and sometimes, not everyone’s favourite, “But in other ways, for anyone who grew up in the 1970s, ‘recalculating’, so I recorded these I feel like I’m only just it was Olivia Newton-John. phrases and landed the job on the spot.” getting started.” “When I saw her, my life changed. It was a job that took 50 hours of I knew exactly what I wanted to do, recording every combination of syllables Watch a video about I wanted to become a professional singer, possible, which she did for only four Karen Jacobsen's work at and move to America,” she says. hours each day to ensure her voice griffith.edu.au/alumni/jacobsen Karen then set about performing at was at its very best. every opportunity she could—in school It wasn’t until years later that musicals, plays, choirs—anything that she realised just what those hours allowed her to entertain. of work had been transformed into.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION LEADING RESEARCH 6

DIGGING FOR CLUES

A Griffith University water science expert was called upon by police to help in the search for Daniel Morcombe’s remains. Report by Richard Scott.

In 2011, human remains were found near a creek in the Glass House Mountains. DNA testing would later prove that they belonged to Daniel Morcombe, the 13-year-old Sunshine Coast schoolboy, missing since 2003. Queensland police brought in geomorphologist and Griffith University Professor Jon Olley to help narrow the search for further remains. He would subsequently be called as an expert witness in the trial of Daniel’s assailant, Brett Peter Cowan, in 2013. Jon, a specialist in the study of water flow and material transport, visited the Kings Road site four times. His role was to study the likely redistribution of remains, Professor Jon Olley was an expert witness in the trial of Brett Peter Cowan and to determine how far clothing thrown into Coochin Creek could have been body would have already significantly transported downstream. decayed prior to the first flood because Having already found skeletal remains, of the time that had lapsed between The Queensland police first needed to confirm when Daniel went missing and the the abandoned sand-mining pit was the first flood event. Search original site of deposition. Jon began to dig. Police wanted to comb the whole area By studying the layers of sediment from Kings Road and down. Instead Jon For build-up at three different points, was able to recommend a search area of Jon and his colleague Dr Tim Pietsch, 100 m or less. He surmised that there Daniel also from Griffith University, were able would be no opportunity for further to determine the soil levels pre-dating material evidence to be found. Daniel’s disappearance. Two years later, Jon would be called 2003: Daniel Morcombe, 13, Additionally, Jon noticed that many of as an expert witness in the trial and abducted from a bus stop at Woombye, the trees’ root flares (a widening of the was praised by police for his efforts Sunshine Coast, Dec 7. stem) at the back of the site were buried. in the conviction. He was awarded the 2011: Brett Cowan charged with “It looked unusual,” he says. “The trees Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate Daniel’s murder—plus child stealing, stuck out like telegraph poles, it didn’t of Appreciation in 2015, recognising his deprivation of liberty, indecent treatment look right. They were buried with a metre “outstanding commitment, intelligence, of child under 16 and interfering with of sediment. But not in the front area resourcefulness and dedication to duty”. corpse, Aug 13. Human bones and items where the bone matter had been found. More recently, Jon’s time is divided of clothing recovered from Glass House At the back of the site the police needed up between dating archaeological Mountains search site, Aug 21. to be digging deeper.” sites and studying river systems Jon Olley asked to join Operation Bravo He was able to conclude that the with a particular focus on south Vista to help the search, Sept 9. body had likely been placed where police east Queensland’s Moreton Bay. 2012: Daniel’s funeral held Dec 7. had suspected, and that water flow “There is an urgency about the river 2013: Trial begins at Brisbane Supreme had moved and distributed the remains restoration work,” says Jon. “Each time Court, Feb 7, with Olley called as after decay. there is a flood, Moreton Bay’s health 31st witness. Jon also traced two flood events in declines. And with each flood the decline 2014: Cowan found guilty of all charges, the creek (in 2009 and 2011) that had gets greater. Much of my time is now Mar 13, and sentenced to life the capacity to wash matter down the taken up with looking at ways to at Wolston Correctional Centre. waterway. He was able to gauge that the protect the Bay.” 7 LEADING RESEARCH

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk opens the new research centre headed up by Dr James St John WALKING A PATH LESS TAKEN

A Griffith team is leading the world in stem cell research, with the aim of helping paralysed people walk again. Lucy Ardern reports.

A new medical research centre at Olfactory cells naturally regenerate injury that paralysis does not have Griffith University is offering hope to and form the basis of the research. to be forever,” he said. those suffering from spinal cord injury— “The medical research being done “To some degree, it is already progressing ground-breaking work that here at this centre could transform proven that this process can work could see paralysed patients walking the lives of people with an acquired but we need to improve the results.” and feeling again. brain injury or a spinal injury. And the (Professor Alan Mackay-Sim pioneered Researchers at the Griffith University first tests are very encouraging,” Griffith's leadership in this field.) Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology the Premier said. “One of the keys to that is working and Stem Cell Research, opened “I want to thank (Vice Chancellor) out how to stimulate the cells to grow by Queensland Premier Annastacia Ian O’Connor and Dr James St John for and migrate faster and to find specific Palaszczuk, are preparing to conduct the outstanding leadership happening cells that do those things when we clinical trials by 2018, focused on here at Griffith University. need them to. restoring motor and sensory function “This is about taking medical “We are getting some fantastic to badly injured people. research to the next steps. It is results already and are unbelievably Research team leader Dr James St ground-breaking research.” excited about it.” John said the initiative was building on Dr St John said his team was currently There has been some success in research conducted around the world focused on refining cellular aspects of restoring movement to paralysed in the past 20 years, which involved the process, which was a crucial part patients with the use of robots but so transplanting olfactory ensheathing cells of repairing spinal cords and could also far researchers have been unable to work from the nose into injured spinal cords to have implications for the treatment out how to re-establish the sensations form a cellular bridge. This enables nerve of acquired brain injuries. of touch and temperature. Both motor cells to regenerate and make functional “This exciting therapy now offers and sensory function could be restored motor and sensory connections. hope to those who live with spinal cord with cellular therapy.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION LEADING RESEARCH 8

FIGHT AGAINST MALARIA

Researcher Danielle Stanisic is part of a team hoping to develop the world’s first malaria vaccine

Research teams at Deep in a jungle in South America, a child While efforts to fight the scourge Griffith University are shivers uncontrollably as her small body of malaria have reduced deaths by 60 per fights a fever. Malaria affects half the cent over the past 15 years, the disease working to both cure and world’s population and, without a vaccine, still presents a huge global burden. prevent malaria, one a mosquito bite can be deadly. According to the World Health Organisation, But a research team based at Griffith’s 3.2 billion people are at risk of malaria. of the world’s deadliest Gold Coast campus is hoping to produce In 2015 alone, there were more than 214 diseases, writes the world’s first malaria vaccine. The team, million cases resulting in 438,000 deaths, led by Professor Michael Good, has just 70 per cent of them children under five. Carolyn Barry. finished clinical trials at Griffith’s Institute The febrile disease, found in tropical for Glycomics. They have been working and sub-tropical regions, is characterised closely with expert infectious disease by headache and chills, which then clinicians at Gold Coast University Hospital progresses to fever, vomiting and sweats. and this is the second round of clinical If untreated, the parasite and its toxins trials to be conducted by the Institute can cause blood abnormalities, organ to examine malaria vaccine strategies in damage, and possibly death. humans. At the same time, researchers Malaria develops when parasites inside at Griffith’s Eskitis Institute for Drug female Anopheles mosquitoes find their Discovery are finding compounds to way into human blood through a mosquito help prevent and cure the disease. bite. Two species of parasites (Plasmodium “It’s a massive public health problem,” falciparum and Plasmodium vivax) are says malaria researcher Dr Danielle responsible for most of the infections Stanisic. “Malaria is a debilitating disease globally. P. falciparum is particularly and has a huge impact on economies dangerous, capable of entering the brain of (high-impact) countries because and causing seizures, loss of consciousness people can’t work.” or neurological impairment.

Senior Research Assistant Sandra Duffy (front) and Professor Vicky Avery 9 LEADING RESEARCH

Areas with limited risk

Areas where malaria transmission occurs

Malaria affects 3.2 billion people across the world. This map shows the areas most at risk

With about 30 species of Anopheles year and field-testing in epidemic has enabled the researchers to prioritise mosquitoes carrying any of five human areas in the next two to three years. which ones should be investigated for malaria parasite species, the diversity of the Dr Stanisic says she is grateful for drug development. disease and the speed at which it evolves the support from Griffith University. Researchers in Professor Avery's lab present major challenges in the treatment “Griffith has enabled us to develop have been able to develop important and eradication of malaria, says Dr Stanisic. important facilities vital for us and other assays that assess the effectiveness Vaccines to date have largely focused on researchers needing to run clinical trials." of compounds in blocking activity of single proteins that vary between different She adds that the research would not malaria parasites at various life stages. strains or species of the parasite, be possible without the help of Rotary, “Drug resistance is an ever-present which means they may have limited who raised $8500 to buy the Institute concern, and a very serious one,” effectiveness out in the field. A single a critical piece of equipment used says Professor Avery. “Identification vaccine to protect against all the varieties to manufacture its malaria of new targets and new chemical classes of malaria has not yet been achieved. vaccine, PlasProtecT®. active against this new target are “There are hundreds of different essential. There is always a sense strains of malaria out in the field and they of urgency as developing new drugs recombine frequently,” says Dr Stanisic. is a lengthy and costly process.” “The malaria parasite is very clever— While Australia is malaria-free, that’s why it has survived for centuries. The malaria parasite is very research efforts to eradicate the It constantly varies the proteins it clever—that’s why it has disease will help Australians travelling presents to our immune system so survived for centuries. to infected areas, including sightseers, that it can survive.” business people and defence forces. They key to an effective universal “Malaria is not as far away as we vaccine, she says, is to target proteins would like to think,” says Professor Avery. that are common to all strains of malaria On the drug front, researchers at the She works in malaria drug discovery so the immune system can recognise Eskitis Institute are looking at chemical for important reasons, she says. the parasites and attack. compounds to help solve the malaria “Firstly, it was not that long ago The team is close to achieving this goal. problem. Researchers have contributed that malaria was eliminated in Australia; Their cutting-edge work on a vaccine significantly to the identification of seven secondly, we are incredibly close to our effective against all blood-stage parasites new antimalarial candidates, which could neighbours such as PNG where malaria is the most advanced of its kind. Rodent be used to develop drugs to treat or is endemic and a major health problem. studies and preliminary human studies prevent malaria. "There are also moral and ethical have been promising, says Dr Stanisic, and “If we are to eliminate malaria, we obligations; we have to contribute where she is “very excited about the possibility” must stop the transmission between we can to the health and wellbeing of the vaccine. Joining forces with human and mosquitoes,” says Professor of all human beings." infectious disease clinicians at Gold Coast Vicky Avery, Head of Discovery Biology Dr Stanisic echoes this tenet. University Hospital, the team is aiming at the Eskitis Institute. The ability to “Malaria affects the poorest nations to start human clinical trials to test the simultaneously evaluate many compounds and poorest people in the world and effectiveness of the vaccine in the next for their impact on this life cycle stage I believe we have an obligation to help."

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION #GRIFFITHGOLD 10

Weightlifter Deborah Acason says Griffith University’s sport focus was pivotal to her success GRIFFITH’S SPORTING HEART At the height of their stardom, many athletes managed to balance their glory with study. Pat McLeod meets three of Griffith’s 39 Commonwealth Games athletes.

Deborah Acason laughs softly into the From cyclist Walter Lancaster and by some of the biggest sporting names phone. “Yes. I chose Griffith University diver Simon McCormack at the 1990 in the Commonwealth just a few years over Harvard.” Auckland Games through to a squad of earlier during the 1982 Games. Fourteen years after that decision 22 who competed at Glasgow in 2014. However university and a heavy she’s not laughing out of regret, but how The University’s Sports College was in training schedule proved tough for life’s milestones change in weight over its infancy during Deborah’s time gaining the youngster. “It was a hard journey,” time. The then Deborah Lovely was a double law degree at Griffith from 2002 Wally recalls. at a crossroads: Harvard or Griffith? to 2010, but she says the university’s “I was coming to uni on a pushbike, Track and field or weightlifting? sport focus was pivotal to her success. quickly running in and having a shower She chose the latter on both “The university was extremely to make it back to a lecture then counts and today can look back with supportive,” she says. “I don’t think there slipping out and using the Griffith pride at her achievements. was another university in the country gym when I could. As Griffith University gathers that matched what they were offering.” “Then very often, late at night, momentum towards the Gold Coast 2018 Now she juggles her sport, her law at the end of lectures with big lights Commonwealth Games and chronicles career and family. on my bike I would make my way current students or alumni who have Walter ‘Wally’ Lancaster’s story the 20 km back to where I lived.” been part of ‘the Friendly Games’, magnifies the importance of the Griffith After a year of study, Wally deferred Deborah holds a very special place. Sports College. It didn’t exist during his to concentrate on his sport. The 32-year-old has competed at assault on his sporting Everest during He was selected in the road team four Commonwealth Games and is still the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. that was to place fifth in the team a chance of wearing the green and gold In 1988 as an 18-year-old he enrolled time trial at the Auckland 1990 at the 21st Games on the Gold Coast. in modern Asian studies at Griffith’s Commonwealth Games, just 15 Griffith’s Commonwealth Games Nathan campus. He used the same years after Griffith welcomed roll of honour currently sits at 39. in-house university gym frequented its first students to campus. 11 #GRIFFITHGOLD

In a sport that back then placed high expectation but offered little monetary support, Wally was forced to make some tough decisions. He turned away from the path to the Olympics and another Commonwealth Games in an attempt to make a living out of the sport as a professional in Europe. But that was thwarted by serious illness. By 1993 Wally was back in Australia, off the bike and joining the workforce. Today, along with his wife Claire, he owns a gymnasium in Stanthorpe: Granite Belt Fitness. He says he will be a spectator at the 2018 Games. “No sporting event I have ever done at world level ever compared to what the Commonwealth Games experience was,” he says. “They are amazing memories that you can’t replace ... it was one of the greatest things I have ever done and just irreplaceable.”

GOING THE DISTANCE When Michael Shelley began university life at Griffith’s Gold Coast Campus (Business Degree 2007 – 2011) he was a little-known Australian distance runner. By 2010 he recalls being recognised and congratulated by one of his tutors after winning silver in the marathon at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi. Today Michael is an ace in the Athletics Australia Planning for the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane begins on the Nathan campus pack after collecting gold in the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games and will be an overwhelming sentimental favourite A life-long partnership come the 2018 Games in his hometown. Michael says while he was always Griffith University’s emergence as a When then Queensland Premier reluctant to play the ‘sport card’ to significant player in the Gold Coast 2018 Anna Bligh announced in 2008 that receive special treatment at Griffith, Commonwealth Games (GC2018) is the the Gold Coast would bid for the 2018 the assistance he received through the rekindling of a partnership that dates Games there was an emerging drum roll Sports College was extremely valuable. back almost to the birth of the university. from within Griffith: “We have done this “I didn’t try to use my sport as an A bold decision was made just over a before—we can do it again.” excuse to get extensions,” he says. “I tried year after the university opened its doors As the Commonwealth Games Village to get all my work done when everybody in 1975 to offer up its Nathan campus as takes shape, about 1200 permanent else did. However with the training load the hub for 1982 Commonwealth Games. apartments will be built to house athletes and uni workload it is pretty difficult, but That decision not only implanted and officials. No doubt, in the future, having the sports department helping is a a DNA that would forever align the some of these apartments will be major thing for athletes and helps them to university with sport at all levels, it also home for students at Griffith. pursue their dreams. It works in two ways. created a special relationship between “Not only are they able to get to the Griffith and the Commonwealth Games. highest level in their chosen sport but In 2018, just as it was in 1982 they are also prepared for life after sport.” when Matilda winked and the world focus Fresh from the spectacle of the was on the Brisbane Commonwealth Rio Olympics he can’t help but steal Games, Griffith University will again a gaze over the horizon at the 2018 be a central figure of the four-yearly Commonwealth Games. sporting spectacular, an Official Partner “I am really looking forward to racing through the Sponsorship Program. at a Commonwealth Games at home, And the Commonwealth Games in front of family and friends,” he says. Village will be nestled beside the “It will be pretty special.” Gold Coast campus.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION #GRIFFITHGOLD 12

A CAREER WIN

Griffith Engineering student Adil Rachidi went from intern to employee More than a billion people will watch the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games. Our students and alumni will play a critical role.

For engineer Adil Rachidi, his first job is a dream come true – he can indulge his love of sport while working at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games 4-15 APRIL Corporation (GOLDOC). “This is something close to my heart­— to combine sport with engineering— 2018 as it’s just what I love to do,” said the Moroccan-born man. “When you arrive at GOLDOC, you read the motto ‘Share the Dream’ and for me, I’m really living a dream now. It’s amazing.” After working as an intern for the GOLDOC Engineering Services team, sporting event in Australia this decade. he was offered a job. Hayley Thomas, a Master of Few students can say that their Business/Master of Human Resource first internship was working on a Management student, is now GOLDOC’s Commonwealth Games. But for Accommodation Administration Assistant. approximately 250 Griffith University “Being immersed in the organisational students, they have the unique culture and contributing has been opportunity to further their career by exciting and rewarding,” says Hayley. working on one of the world’s largest “It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity.” sporting events, in fields ranging from GOLDOC has employed several digital media and communications Griffith graduates across a range of areas. to engineering and sustainability. Professor Ian O’Connor, Griffith Hayley Payne (above), a second University Vice Chancellor and President, year Bachelor of Public Relations and said the internships mean students gain Communication student, says she learnt a powerful professional experience to from some of the best professionals complement their academic studies. in her field during her internship. “Griffith University is dedicated to “There is such a wealth of knowledge creating possibilities for our students and that I can take back into my studies and the community,” he said. “We are proud enhance my future career prospects,” to be part of this important milestone she says. for the Gold Coast and for Griffith and These are two of many Griffith we are proud of what our students will connections working on the biggest be able to offer the community.” 13 #GRIFFITHGOLD

TOP 10 IN THE WORLD

The contingent of Griffith-associated athletes competing at the 2016 Rio Games mixed gold-medal performances with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

According to the Times Higher Social Work student Madi Wilson Education (THE) ranking of universities, landed gold in the 4x100 freestyle relay THE MEDALS Griffith is among the top 10 in the and a silver in the 4x100 medley relay. world for Olympic success at Rio. Early success also came in the THE ranked global universities women’s rugby sevens, as alumna OLYMPICS according to the medal count of athletes Shannon Parry won gold playing for GOLD SILVER BRONZE directly connected with their institution Australia in an undefeated campaign. Emma McKeon 1 2 1 (students, staff, alumni). Standford was Gold-medal swimming favourite Madi Wilson 1 1 - number one and Griffith ranked number Cameron McEvoy, a Griffith Sciences Shannon Parry 1 - - 10, and was the only Australian student, won two bronze medals in the Jess Ashwood - 1 - university among the first 20. relay events and will also be remembered Cameron McEvoy - - 2 A total of 27 Griffith students and for his humble and gracious praise for Matt Abood - - 1 alumni competed at the Olympics and those who pipped him in his favourite another seven at the Paralympics. individual events. Between them they brought home In the Paralympics, Griffith University PARALY MPICS 14 medals, including three Olympic alumna Katie Kelly won gold in the triathlon. GOLD SILVER BRONZE gold and one Paralympic gold. However, Griffith Sports College Katie Kelly 1 - - According to figures released by Manager Naomi McCarthy, a water Carlee Beattie - - 1 Australian University Sport, it was the polo gold Medallist in Sydney 2000, David Edwards - - 1 largest contingent of student athletes says the performances at Rio should not from any Australian university attending be judged solely on the medal count. the Olympics. “Many of the athletes either put It was also a cause for celebration in personal bests or gave some great for the dedicated team at Griffith Sports individual and team performances College, which spent many months leading as well,” says Naomi. up to the Games assisting students “Some of the Griffith athletes have balance the rigours of training and study. been recognised as stars of the future, “It’s great to work so closely with the so for them the desire to forge on for athletes and be alongside with them on another four years will be strong." their journey, not only as a student but also as an athlete and see them achieving their dreams of competing on the world’s biggest sporting stage,” says Griffith Sports College Director Duncan Free, As far as the Griffith Sports a four-time Olympian. College is concerned we are The biggest splash from Griffith very proud and happy with students at Rio came in the pool. how the Griffith athletes Health student Emma McKeon was and alumni represented the most successful Griffith athlete with Australia and themselves. a medal haul of one gold, two silver and a bronze. Along the way she also helped the Australian women’s 4x100 medley relay team post a new world record.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION HEALTH 14

Dinesh Palipana, 32, will soon finish his fourth year in medicine after become a quadriplegic halfway through his studies AGAINST ALL ODDS After a car accident left Dinesh Palipana paralysed, he faced new challenges in becoming a doctor, writes Louise Durack.

Dinesh Palipana was a focused, determined, After intensive care and the high over what he could achieve as a trainee enthusiastic medicine student at Griffith dependency unit, Dinesh spent a gruelling doctor, they were quickly dismissed. He University when his life changed forever seven months in the spinal unit at the got great grades in the mid-year exams, on a rainy night in 2010. PA Hospital where he undertook regular despite the five-year break from medicine. Today, the 32-year-old remains physio and occupational therapy. Although classified as a quadriplegic, equally determined and just as focused Eventually Dinesh and his mother he has some feeling on the outside of on forging a career in medicine in spite Chithrani left Australia to go to their his forearms. He is able to feed himself of the car accident on Brisbane’s Gateway native Sri Lanka, to take a three-year and get around in his wheelchair Bridge that left him without feeling break and think about what their next without help. or movement from the chest down. move would be. “It does take me longer than most “It was weird as the car just started “I met some great people there who to get myself ready in the morning and aquaplaning down the highway,” he says. kept my enthusiasm for life alive,” he says. I need help for that, but as far as medical “I tried to gain control but suddenly I was “But they knew I was still interested in duties go, I can carry out a good medical going down the embankment and there a medical career and encouraged me to examination and consultation on a was nothing I could do. I just knew how keep in contact with the Griffith School patient,” he says. very, very bad this was.” of Medicine. Dinesh is considering specialising, Dinesh eventually woke up in “Professor Harry McConnell and perhaps in radiology or neurology. Brisbane’s PA Hospital three days later. others from the School of Medicine were “Medicine is so broad with so many “I knew I’d been paralysed before fantastic in communicating to me about fantastic options,” he says. “Luckily I anyone even mentioned it to me, I just how it could work if I came back to my have some fantastic people around me didn’t realise it was to the extent of studies and thoroughly supported me in at Griffith, who have been great advocates becoming quadriplegic,” he says. “Even my decision to eventually return to year for me, as well as my amazing mother in the ambulance, the first thing that three medicine in January 2015.” who has always been there for me.” occurred to me was that I still needed to Dinesh was warmly welcomed back at “I am pretty lucky, really. get this medicine degree done and get on Griffith, where he will soon finish his fourth Yeah, I guess I must have wanted with my career. That was so important.” year, and if there were ever any doubts this career pretty bad.” 15 HEALTH

CHINA VACCINE TRIAL

Translating ground-breaking research into commercial reality is a challenge that Griffith University is tackling head-on – and it could bring better health to millions. Skye Small writes.

Griffith University is partnering with a Chinese pharmaceutical firm for a new vaccine that has the enormous potential to help millions. Researchers from Griffith’s Institute for Glycomics will begin Phase 1 clinical trials on a new, needle-free vaccine targeted at Streptococcus A infection, the cause of strep throat and rheumatic heart disease. Griffith signed the agreement with Olymvax Biopharmaceuticals Inc to discover, develop and commercialise its Group A Streptococcus (GAS) vaccine technology exclusively for Greater China. Strep A bacteria are responsible for a wide range of illnesses, from common infections like ‘school sores’ and strep throat, to deadly toxic shock and rheumatic heart disease. Even the rather gruesome sounding flesh-eating disease has this group of bacteria to blame. More than 500,000 people worldwide die each year from diseases caused by these bacteria Professor Michael Good, Olymvax Chairman Mr Shaowen Fan and Dr Mehfuz Zaman and indigenous Australians are especially vulnerable. accelerate the commercial development commercially validated targets for the The researchers who developed of innovative vaccine candidates. treatment of Strep A,” said Olymvax the Liposome vaccine technology “This agreement is an important chairman, Mr Shaowen Fan. include Glycomics’ Principal Research step forward in the international “We believe that combining the Leader Professor Michael Good and roll-out of our vaccine technology,” Institute’s platform with Olymvax’s Dr Mehfuz Zaman. Professor Good said. capabilities will help us rapidly develop “The GAS vaccine has enormous Griffith University Vice-Chancellor these assets for the Chinese market.” potential to broadly impact human Professor Ian O’Connor welcomed the health,” said Professor Good. co-agreement and congratulated “The availability of a safe and those involved. effective GAS vaccine could address “It is a perfect example of Glycomics’ The GAS vaccine has a huge unmet public health demand, pioneering research, being further enormous potential preventing a wide variety of potentially developed with great potential to to broadly impact life-threatening complications benefit society at large,” he said. human health. and diseases in humans worldwide China, as an emerging vaccine attributable to this organism. market, represents a major opportunity “This collaborative partnership for the Institute for Glycomics. represents a significant milestone in the “We are pleased to partner with the Institute’s commercialisation success Institute for Glycomics to develop the working together with partners to GAS vaccine technology, which represent

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION NEW WORLD OF WORK 16

An artist’s impression of the $3 billion Queen’s Wharf integrated resort planned for the heart of Brisbane’s CBD STAR RECRUITS

As The Star Entertainment Group steps up plans for a multi-billion dollar development program for Brisbane and the Gold Coast, three Griffith graduates are embracing the challenge. By Nick Nichols.

Mark Mackay admits he knew little of lays the foundations of a multi-billion Queensland and we are proud to play the casino industry when he accepted dollar capital works program in South a key role in driving investment and the role of gaming analyst manager East Queensland over the next decade. supporting tourism,” he said. at Jupiters casino in 2006, but it was The proposal includes the $3 billion According to Leith Wiblen, the a chance to return to the Gold Coast Queen’s Wharf integrated resort planned Queensland HR General Manager after years in senior global roles with for the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, and an for The Star Entertainment Group, Carlton & United Breweries. existing $345 million redevelopment of the scale of the company’s projects has The Griffith University alumnus, Jupiters Gold Coast. A new master plan the potential to double the casino group’s who studied a Bachelor of Commerce for Jupiters could further transform total staff numbers to 16,000-plus. with majors in Accounting and Finance the Broadbeach Island site with the “The future is really exciting,” says in the early ‘90s, is now The Star development of up to five new Leith, who prior to The Star Entertainment Entertainment Group’s Chief Operating apartment and/or hotel towers. Group had forged an international career Officer at Jupiters Gold Coast with According to Mark, it is not only with Starwood Hotels & Resorts. indirect oversight of 1500 employees. a game-changing period for The Star The Griffith alumna, who graduated “It’s quite a broad role involving all Entertainment Group, but for South with a Bachelor of Hotel Management the operations across gaming, food and East Queensland’s global appeal as and a double major in Business and Human beverage and entertainment,” says Mark. a tourism destination. Resources, was responsible for 9000 However, his opportunities are set to “It’s an incredibly exciting period employees at Starwood. She sees broad expand as The Star Entertainment Group of growth and transformation for scope for Griffith graduates to position 17 NEW WORLD OF WORK

themselves in the tourism industry Amanda, who holds a Bachelor Progressing as The Star Entertainment Group’s of Behavioural Science, says the projects come to fruition. foundations were laid last year to your career “The diversity within integrated resort meet the company’s employment developments is such that they touch needs over the next seven years. The Queensland General Manager for on every aspect of a degree,” she says. “Our strategy for the next two to five HR at The Star Entertainment Group, “We have teams in legal, public years is building an internship framework Leith Wiblen, sees the process of career relations, marketing and communications, and we can work on that with the progression in small steps, although she as well as HR operational people— universities, including Griffith,” she says. concedes it may not be a direct path. and it’s a casino, so everything has “We see distinct pathways for those “My Griffith degree helped opened doors a mathematical background. attending universities. Students could in ways that I couldn’t imagine it would at “When most people undertake a work in casual roles while they study and that time,” she says. “One of the things degree, they don’t necessarily think it when they finish their degree there is great I tell all team members is that it’s really will lead them to an integrated resort potential for them to gain a role within quite easy to manage your career.” development, but we are like a mini city. our shared services or corporate space. Leith offers three key tips to put As one of Queensland’s most significant “They could also stay in the your career on the right path, even if it investors and employers, we’ll probably operational space and use their degree to doesn’t start where you planned. have a job for you.” progress to an operational manager role." Amanda Spencer is another Griffith 1. DO YOUR HOME JOB University graduate gearing up for REALLY WELL: the planned development program Total value “You need to be good at the job you were Total value by The Star Entertainment Group. Hospitality and tourism hired to do. It may not be your dream job She joined the company in early offer roles that can provide but to get ahead you need to do it well.” 2015 as Recruitment Manager for satisfying,Gaming challenging taxes* Gaming taxes* South East Queensland and sees lifelong careers. 2. VOLUNTEER FOR EVERYTHING: universities as a rich source of talent. “Even if you are working as a gaming dealer or in food and beverage, there Total value Extra tourists per year Extra tourists per year are opportunities to volunteer for more and apply your degree. You will be seen as an emerging leader and become Queen’s WharfGaming taxes* BrisbaneOngoing jobs Gaming taxes* Ongoing jobs a go-to person.” Development 3. NETWORK: Extra tourists per year Construction jobs Extra tourists per year Construction jobs “If you are looking at an opportunity or want to work for a certain company, talk to your lecturers about who they Ongoing jobs Restaurants and bars Total value Ongoing jobs Restaurants and bars might know.”

New hotels Construction jobs New hotels Gaming taxes* Construction jobs *guaranteed for Queensland in the first *guaranteed10 years and for relate Queensland solely to inQueen’s the first Wharf 10 years and relate solely to Queen’s Wharf

Extra tourists per year Restaurants and bars

New hotels Ongoing jobs New hotels *guaranteed for Queensland in the first 10 years and relate solely to Queen’s Wharf LEFT TO RIGHT: Mark Mackay, Construction jobs Leith Wiblen and Amanda Spencer

Restaurants and bars

New hotels *guaranteed for Queensland in the first 10 years and relate solely to Queen’s Wharf NEW WORLD OF WORK 18

Griffith Business School’s Fabrizio Carmignani says students need to be prepared as traditional roles evolve and new occupations emerge in the future ADAPTING TO THE NEW WORLD OF WORK

Graduates need to make sure they have plenty of tools in their skill sets— because many jobs that exist now will be very different in the future, writes Stephen O’Grady.

While the look and feel and role of the in professional occupations in business, The government projections, traditional business professional may never finance and human resource during the drawn from Australian Bureau of Statistics be quite the same again, the change comes next four years. Among the specific data, predict an 18 per cent increase in on the back of a fast-evolving employment occupations with positive forecasts are economist occupations and a 25 per cent landscape with plenty to offer in terms financial brokers (set to jump by 13 per rise in intelligence and policy analysts of future careers in business. cent), financial dealers (17 per cent), to November 2019. This is the strongly held view of financial investment advisors (23 per Advertising and marketing the head of Accounting, Finance and cent), human resource professionals professionals (21 per cent) and supply Economics at Griffith Business School, who (10 per cent), training and development and distribution managers (23.6 per cent) says current and future students should be professionals (7.5 per cent) and are also forecast to climb. invigorated by the professional prospects accountants where the spike is “This paints a positive picture for brought on by advances in IT, international projected to be 13 per cent. business students,” Fabrizio says. competition and the globalisation of “The idea of an accountant that does “It is important that the types of skills economic and business linkages. only journal entries is no longer relevant,” we are teaching are skills that will fit Professor Fabrizio Carmignani says Fabrizio says. “However, we can identify in to other professional profiles not new teaching processes already in place exciting new opportunities for the necessarily in business. mean university programs are allowing modern accountant in areas like tax “The processes that the university has students flexibility and versatility that will administration, corporate governance in place now are about forming students enhance and sustain their employability and business development. who will be employable and will have a as traditional business roles evolve and “Roles will undoubtedly evolve and new bag of tools that gives them the flexibility new occupations emerge. professions will emerge. It will become to do jobs in five years that may not even Department of Employment increasingly difficult in the future to exist now.” projections forecast a 14 per cent rise distinguish some professions from others.” griffith.edu.au/employability 19 NEW WORLD OF WORK

Degrees of change

Griffith University is introducing a suite of innovations in 2017 to give students the best start. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) at Griffith University, Professor Debra Henly, says technology is bringing sweeping changes to the way we work. “More than ever before, universities need to deliver flexible learning options which will equip graduates with the skills they need to prepare for a rewarding career,” she said. Griffith is undertaking an extensive review of teaching programs to ensure every student has the opportunity to develop those skills, through a range of options including work placements, internships, international study programs, and through classroom activities that focus on graduate employability.

TRIMESTERS The 3D-printed dress, designed by Griffith University's Samuel Canning, is a centrepiece of the new branding Griffith will introduce three 12-week trimesters in 2017 for a wide range of programs across most disciplines. Students can access three different intakes during the year and for some, CELEBRATE THE the trimesters will allow them to better balance work and study, depending on their circumstances. REMARKABLE NEW DEGREE OPTIONS Griffith University has unveiled a The Remarkable Griffith position Also in 2017, Griffith will offer new Remarkable new brand position. ties together scholarship, research, degrees and double degrees which The bold and confident statement teaching, student experience, allow students to combine study areas of Be Remarkable sums up a University industry partnership and community not traditionally partnered before. on the move, ready and willing to take leadership and is “both representative New degrees are offered in creative on some of the biggest challenges and aspirational.” It launches with an and interactive media, computer science, of modern life. initial awareness phase this year followed counselling, pharmacology and toxicology, “Griffith is a relatively young by a full campaign in early 2017. and paramedicine. New double degrees University and yet in just four decades Professor O’Connor said while the are available in areas such as criminology we are recognised as performing among brand remained distinctively “Griffith and IT, design and business, environmental the top three per cent of universities red”, the word Remarkable delivered an science and law, and psychology and in the world,” Vice Chancellor Professor energy and vitality that represented one mental health practice. Ian O’Connor said. of Australia’s most dynamic universities. “This performance is underpinned A central pillar to the campaign is FOUNDATION FIRST YEARS by our commitment to make a real the Remarkable Griffith content hub A foundation first year for some contribution to our local national and that will be home to an increasing disciplines, including engineering, will international communities. collection of stories and videos give students flexibility to explore their “We produce remarkable graduates, about Griffith people and partners. interests and aptitude early on in their armed with the skills and confidence “One of the many things I am proud of academic journey before committing to a to make their mark on the world. about this positioning and the associated specialised pathway, Professor Henly said. “We conduct remarkable research campaign is that almost everyone featured “For example, from 2017 Bachelor of that helps improve the lives of others in the initial advertising component has a Education students won’t have to decide near and far. direct or strong link to Griffith University." if they want to specialise in primary, “And we are creating remarkable “It is indicative of how deep and secondary or special education teaching opportunities with our leading role as the broad Griffith’s connections are until their second year, after completing Official Partner of the Gold Coast 2018 across the community.” a first year with common core studies.” Commonwealth Games.” remarkablegriffith.com.au

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION ART AND SORROW 20

WHEN ART TURNS ACTIVIST Spontaneous street art is increasingly becoming a community's first response to grief and sorrow.

On a cold November night, many Parisians posted to his Instagram account a sketch in September 2015, artists from around and tourists were enjoying a Friday of the Eiffel Tower as a peace symbol. the world re-purposed the image within evening out in the city’s cafes, It was shared by millions across social the context of ‘protest’ art to express bars and nightclubs. media and reprinted on posters and attitudes towards the refugee crisis. Within hours, 130 of them were dead T-shirts, becoming a show of support Closer to home, Fiona Foley, an after gunmen carried out a series of for Parisians. Indigenous artist and former adjunct co-ordinated attacks across the French It wasn’t the first time the artist had professor at Griffith’s Queensland College capital. Soon, thousands of mourners reacted this way: as a response to the of Art (QCA), creates public art often would swarm to the sites, leaving tributes attacks on French newspaper Charlie embodying sorrow—such as her 2004 in the form of candles, posters, street art Hebdo in January 2015, he created an piece Witnessing to Silence installed and murals. illustration of a pencil facing off with a outside the Brisbane Magistrate’s Court, The outpouring of emotion in gun that was later widely shared online. which pays testament to massacres in response to tragedy can connect When a photo of the body of three- colonial times. people, and is often expressed as art. year-old Syrian refugee Aylan Kurdi on a “It’s important to memorialise French graphic designer Jean Jullien beach in Turkey was exposed in the media Aboriginal deaths in this country because 21 ART AND SORROW

this history has been written out of defiance or solidarity. The shareability the Australian narrative," she says. of public art via social networks now "We have to acknowledge the gives it more power than ever. frontier wars and pay tribute to the first “In terms of sorrow, many critically Australians who died defending their land." Increasingly, commentary engaged artists are motivated to make Increasingly, commentary about war, about war, global insecurity artworks that provoke thought about global insecurity and violence is being and violence is being issues that are devastating in some way,” expressed through art and artists. expressed through art says Professor Jay Younger, an artist The immediacy of social media allows and artists. and curator from QCA. these ideas to be shared readily. But the “I think these artists’ interests are public art—often in situ of the act of about creating action and vigilance in violence—makes a bolder statement. the public and creating a meaningful The physical presence of art in a place of engagement with the issues outside sorrow can be interpreted as an act of the glib mechanism of infotainment.”

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION ART AND SORROW 22

COPING IN A WARZONE

Photographer Adam What draws you to this work? Do you think art can be a tool to Ferguson has lived All our countries have been formed in help with grief? some way through war and that always sat I have a lot of soldiers that want me to much of his professional very uncomfortably with me—I wanted share pictures with them. I think having life on the frontline, to understand conflict, and especially that sort of record is a cathartic thing for the plight of people caught amidst it. them. But then I’ve also photographed documenting the sorrow things and I’ve somehow exacerbated imbued in social and How important is it to create art that their trauma by being there. And there’s shows the sorrow of these situations? a very strong reaction of never wanting political unrest, I think it’s very important because it’s to see my photographs and wishing I was and conflict. one of the things that helps an audience never there. connect with the issue they’re engaging with. I think humans are interested in Do you ever hear from their families? The 38-year-old Queensland College sorrow in art because it’s something The wife of a wounded soldier wouldn’t of Art graduate has covered topics as we’ve all felt. We all fear, and it’s one of sign off on the release. Because the soldier diverse as the plight of Syrian refugees the most primal emotions. When art is died, the embed contract states that I and the heroin trade in India’s Manipur. infused with sorrow it’s kind of engaging. have to get approval from the next of kin He’s spent extensive periods embedded It’s something that discusses human to release those photographs, so they with the US Army in Afghanistan, and his condition, because there’s a lot of were never published. But his dad wanted images have featured in Vanity Fair, Time sorrow in the human condition. them published. His dad wanted Time Magazine and National Geographic. From Magazine to splash these pictures of his his current post in London, Adam explains son dying in combat. His dad wanted his why art such as his is so vital and the son kind of, I guess, immortalised might be effects of working in the danger zones. a bit strong, but he wanted that memory, that sense of loss and what that meant, he wanted that published.

BELOW: Relatives of Mjeba Khalaf, mourn during her funeral at the Wadi-us-Salaam Cemetery in Najaf, Iraq. Mjeba Khalaf was killed in a car bomb attack in Baghdad while working at her milk and yoghurt stall. Photo: Adam Ferguson 23 HEALTH

Pharmacist Michael Whitney is excited about joining the RAAF A FLYING START

Combining his passion for pharmacy and a unique global opportunity with the air force has Griffith graduate Michael Whitney flying high, writes Louise Durack.

Becoming an officer with the Royal he says. “I already knew I was going to and weapons training. Australian Air Force (RAAF) was the be studying for the masters and I was “It’s going to be very exciting, last thing on Michael Whitney’s mind keen to become a pharmacist. to be living and working on an air base, when he began studying. "However, I also wanted to do with the thought that by being in an Now the Master of Pharmacy something different—to be a part active role, we could eventually be graduate from Coolangatta couldn’t of something bigger and to serve called up to work within a war zone.” be happier. Not only has he the my country. For the moment, though, Michael is qualifications for a career in his specialist “The opportunity to be involved being sponsored by the RAAF to work area, but he also has the financial backing in tasks such as drug logistics in war in a community pharmacy in Elanora on of the RAAF and a guaranteed job with or disaster-ravaged nations is an the Gold Coast. the organisation at the end. appealing proposition.” Meanwhile, his former Griffith Graduating from Griffith’s Gold Coast Currently holding a rank of Pilot pharmacy colleagues are learning through campus in 2015, Michael says it was a Officer, Michael is looking forward to a simulated game environment, the first long process in applying to the RAAF. the 17-week training program at the of its kind in Australia. The PharmG game “It came about by chance, really, after RAAF Air Base East Sale, Victoria. offers students the chance to compete a visit to the uni by the defence forces. Once there, Michael will train as teams in a rich educational setting to I submitted the application while still an alongside other young health practice and hone their skills treating undergrad after hearing how they were professionals, undertaking military virtual cases as if they were working recruiting for future health professionals,” exercises such as strategic management in a real-life pharmacy.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION GRIFFITH NEWS HIGHLIGHTS 24

Art Expert Tour ism Woman of Honoured Revolution Influence

Australia’s priceless rock art is in safe A Griffith research project is changing The qualities of Professor Lesley hands, after Professor Paul Taçon was the way that the tourism industry Chenoweth AO are well known— awarded an Australian Research Council delivers the visitor experience through leadership, inspiration, passion, humility. (ARC) Australian Laureate Fellowship. real-time social media data analysis. Griffith University’s Pro Vice Chancellor “This is the culmination of more Associate Professor Bela Stantic, and Head of Logan campus is also than 30 years of research on Australia’s Director of the Big Data and Smart influential—and that’s official. extraordinary rock art,’’ the Griffith Analytics lab in Griffith’s Institute for It was no surprise to learn that she University Chair in Rock Art says. Integrated and Intelligent Systems, had won a gong at the Australian Financial “This is a fantastic result for is confident his new big data concept Review and Westpac 100 Women of Indigenous heritage as the project will can deliver more accurate information Influence Awards for 2015 for her generate new protocols and provide than traditional analysis. social work. new interfaces between scientific, His concept, which he calls the “It is a reflection of what I have done Indigenous and public views of rock art.” Human Sensor, uses real-time integration in my career but it’s made me stop and Worth $2.5 million over five years, of social media, discussion groups, blogs think about what we really mean by the ARC funding will go towards and review websites to make decisions. influence,” she says. producing new national strategies and “It is possible, in real-time, to identify “I’m not a CEO but I have been knowledge about Australian rock art what is a target of a discussion and fortunate that my role at Griffith has not to enhance Indigenous empowerment what is the attitude towards a particular only enabled me to use my skills but also and wellbeing. product or service,” Bela says. to work with an amazing community, The Australian Laureate Fellowships “Traditionally it is very hard to different levels of government, scheme supports outstanding Australian identify what people are talking about.” community organisations and schools. and international researchers and An example of the Human Sensor’s It’s about being in a position where your research leaders to build Australia’s use can be seen through a project to job is to engage.” research capacity. monitor environmental changes and In terms of offering advice to others, Professor Taçon has led the campaign water quality on the Great Barrier Reef. Professor Chenoweth says women need to preserve Australia's rock art for “We believe that environmental to stop being so hard on themselves. decades. His collection of photographs changes to the Great Barrier Reef can be “Women need to take a longer of rock art is also featured in the Google spotted by tourists who share to social term view on our careers,” she says. Art Project, which gathers images of media,” he said. Content, frequency and “It’s important to know that you the greatest art from around the world. sentiment can all be monitored and can be an influence all your life.” Professor Taçon's images are the data then analysed. Earlier this year she was made an the only rock art featured and they “From photos, we can also recognise Officer of the Order of Australia (AO). sit proudly alongside the likes of types of fish and fish numbers. Professor Chenoweth also supported Vincent Van Gogh and Rembrandt. "We believe by integrating all data other aspiring women by presenting and applying deep learning we will be the inaugural Brisbane Business Watch a video about able to identify and predict potential Woman of the Year Award this year, Professor Taçon's work at issues which may arise on the Reef," of which Griffith University was remarkablegriffith.com he says. a major sponsor. 25 GRIFFITH NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

Future of A–Grade Leading 3D Printing Teachers CFS Fight

The discomfort and stigma of loose or The ability to relate equally to students Chronic Fatigue Syndrome researchers missing teeth could be a thing of the past and the world at large is essential to being have discovered a cell receptor which as Griffith University researchers pioneer a great teacher. That’s the word from could be a key contributing factor to the use of 3D bioprinting to replace Australian University Teacher of the CFS, providing a much clearer picture missing teeth and bone. Year award-winners Associate Professor of how to tackle the debilitating illness. The three-year study, which has been Halim Rane and Associate Professor Researchers from Griffith granted a National Health and Medical Brydie-Leigh Bartleet, who took out University’s National Centre for Research Council Grant of $650,000, the distinguished prize in 2015 and Neuroimmunology and Emerging is being undertaken by periodontist 2014 respectively. Diseases at the Menzies Health Institute Professor Saso Ivanovski from Griffith’s Associate Professor Rane, who Queensland, have identified significant Menzies Health Institute Queensland. teaches Islamic studies at Griffith, impairments in the cellular function As part of an Australian first, says great teachers are not only of people with CFS. Professor Ivanovski and his team are using specialists in their subject area, CFS—sometimes known as ME the latest 3D bioprinting to produce new, but are also able to relate to their (myalgic encephalomyelitis)—is a totally ‘bespoke’, tissue engineered bone students and the world around them. complex illness characterised by and gum that can be implanted into a “Understanding one’s field—student impaired memory and concentration, patient’s jawbone. abilities, interests and needs—and the metabolic, cardiac, gut and immune “The groundbreaking approach begins realities of the world in equal measure dysfunction and debilitating muscle with a scan of the affected jaw, prior to is what makes a great teacher,” he says. pain and fatigue on exertion (also known the design of a replacement part using "My focus has always been on my as neuroimmune exhaustion). computer-assisted design,” he says. students and the skills and knowledge Published in Biological Research, the “A specialised bioprinter, which is set they need to be competent in the field study reveals a receptor not previously at the correct physiological temperature of Islam-West relations and beyond." identified on particular immune cells. (in order to avoid destroying cells and Associate Professor Bartleet teaches “TRPM3 receptors have been proteins) is then able to successfully at Queensland Conservatorium and says identified on these particular immune fabricate the gum structures that have the relational aspects of the role are key. cells, not only in healthy people for the been lost to disease – bone, ligament and “Great teachers recognise that first time, but also have been shown to be tooth cementum – in one single process. learning and teaching is completely significantly reduced in CFS/ME patients,” “In the case of people with missing underpinned by relationships,” she says. says Professor Sonya Marshall-Gradisnik teeth who have lost a lot of jawbone due “This relational way of thinking about who is leading the study. to disease or trauma, they would usually teaching has been something I have “These receptors are important have these replaced with dental implants,” learnt so much about from the Indigenous as they move calcium inside the cell. he says, adding that the 3D-printed elders I have worked with. At the heart of Interestingly in this study we also reported components may well be cheaper. it, I think great teachers are avid learners.” a significant reduction of calcium inside Currently in pre-clinical trials, these cells from CFS/ME patients. Professor Ivanovski says the aim is to Watch a video about “The discovery means that we now trial the new technology in humans Associate Professor Bartleet's have a potential key contributing factor within the next one to two years. work at remarkablegriffith.com in the cause of this condition."

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION GLOBAL REACH 26

A trip to Madagascar inspired Katherine Hunt to help those living in the world’s poorest countries start businesses. Report by Stephen O’Grady.

Doctor Katherine Hunt has surfed in most of the countries where she’s worked as a micro-finance expert RIDING THE WAVE OF SUCCESS

On a map of the world, the 100 km Katherine’s specific focus is Micro-finance would become the journey from Byron to the Gold Coast micro-finance regulation and how centrepiece of the PhD in law and is a short trip. For Dr Katherine Hunt— changes to policy and law can empower economics Katherine holds from Erasmus who has plenty of global context to work enterprising minds buzzing with business University of Rotterdam, University of with —the journey from her beloved initiatives, often among some of the Bologna, and University of Hamburg. home town to Griffith University poorest cultures on the planet. Her fieldwork can take her from a 12 years ago was the trip of a lifetime. “These people are not lazy, micro-finance institution’s office in a With 63 countries now on her they are not dumb. They are smart capital city to a rural shack where a teller ‘been there’ list, she knows more and hardworking and just need an than most about going places. opportunity. This is about financial Katherine arrived at Griffith inclusion,” says Katherine. University in 2004, as an 18-year-old She was inspired to pursue the student of psychological science. micro-finance career path during a civil Three degrees and one PhD later, today war-interrupted trip to Madagascar in she is a prominent lecturer of financial 2009. There she witnessed ingenuity planning at Griffith Business School at work among the poorest people she and a respected researcher whose work had ever met, in a world where a sardine regularly sends her around the world. tin could become a sought-after toy She was in Nicaragua early this year on the end of a string. building partnerships with micro-finance An honours student of finance institutions and shaping a forthcoming by then, she was struck by the research project that will investigate the immense potential for small businesses characteristics of people who borrow to thrive and flourish in such an from these institutions. impoverished environment. 27 GLOBAL REACH

These people are smart and hardworking and just need SHARK REALITY an opportunity. OF LIVE TV loans an illiterate mother the money she Griffith Communications needs to buy 10 kg of oranges which she graduate Lyle Fielmich will sell in bags of three to make a profit. Knowing the culture is every bit as was directing the live important to Katherine as knowing the broadcast the day world financial laws that preside over how people can or cannot save money. champion surfer Mick “In many developing countries, Fanning was attacked the micro-finance institution is not by a shark. He talks allowed to access capital markets or take people’s savings as deposits. with Deborah Marshall. Government guarantees for bank deposits don’t exist generally and interest rates are often capped,” An internship at Quiksilver led Lyle she says. Fielmich to an enviable career filming “Limiting the amount of interest a the best waveriders—including Mick borrower has to pay the micro-finance Fanning—around the world. institution is condescending. These From Tahiti and Hawaii to South are productive members of society, Africa and France, Griffith University that’s why they are borrowing in the communications graduate Lyle Fielmich Lyle Fielmich is broadcast director for World first place. They can afford to pay has seen some of the best surfing Surfing League and watched as Mick Fanning interest rates. This kind of charity beaches in the world. was attacked in South Africa in 2015 mind-set needs to be taken out of The World Surfing League broadcast the micro-finance conversation.” director began his journey to the role University’s Gold Coast campus, was in Another cultural attitude to be in 2006 when he interned with the South Africa directing the broadcast of addressed is the tendency for people Quiksilver Pro World Surfing competition the J-Bay Open Surf World League Event to borrow their way out of poverty in Coolangatta. when the terrifying incident occurred. rather than save their way out, the “When I started with Quiksilver as As broadcast director, he is in charge 29-year-old says. a production assistant I offered to edit of the look and feel of the World Surf “If the micro-finance institution is outdoors and it went from there,’’ League’s programs, so that means being not allowed to accept people’s savings, he says. “My first competition was up at 5am every day to prepare for then a culture of saving is difficult a fantastic experience.” a morning show. to build. And without those savings, Over the past decade Lyle has “We do our rehearsals, have everyone the micro-finance institutions are travelled the globe covering surfing ready, and then we usually don’t know ultimately limited in what they can loan. competitions with the World Surfing whether we are going to be live or not, Therefore, there may not be enough League, as well as freelancing for the so you have to be in this state of money going around to stimulate AFL, NRL, V8 Supercars, cricket and readiness the whole time,’’ he says. these little economies.” the Australian Open. And ready they were, but no-one Katherine believes the role of mobile Lyle was also working during surfer was prepared for the startling images phones and online banking is crucial to Mick Fanning’s close call with a shark of that fin and what came next. the evolution of this sector. “Mobile in November 2015. “Within 24 hours there were more phones are everywhere. Beggars in “My heart was on the ceiling,’’ recalls than 16 million hits on YouTube. Madagascar have phones,” she says. Lyle, of the moments when the camera It’s just astonishing.” “If money can be transferred with captured a shark’s fin behind Fanning’s Lyle has just finished his 11th a simple SMS from a phone to the board. “I was directing that morning and Quiksilver Pro competition. And, just for bank, then micro-finance can be more when it happened it seemed to go on the record, he reckons Jeffreys Bay in effective going forward.” forever, although it was probably only South Africa has one of the best and most Back at Griffith’s Gold Coast campus, eight seconds. beautiful surfing beaches in the world. where she is often seen skateboarding “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. into her office at the new business Then it was all over and I could breathe building, she teaches the principles of again. It was remarkable.” Watch a video about 21st century financial planning to a Lyle, who graduated in 2007 with a Lyle Fielmich'’s work at new wave of commerce students, Bachelor of Communication from Griffith griffith.edu.au/alumni/fielmich many learning online.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION GLOBAL REACH 28

GLOBE TROTTER’S CAREER ADVANTAGE

Peta Wilton says her double degree and international travel helped her secure a job at KPMG

While studying for a double degree at to offer something different to the most of them, have made me a very Griffith University, Peta Wilton brandished other candidates by drawing from my competitive graduate,” Peta says. her passport on a regular basis. time in places like Oxford and China.” This competitive edge is sharpened, Thirty countries in three years Membership of the Griffith Honours she believes, by her decision to study complemented her tertiary education College brought the first overseas a double degree focusing on finance with a global outlook that has already opportunity for Peta: a 2012 trip to and law. served her well. regional China where she volunteered to Peta is among three Griffith Now, after graduating with a help build a bridge for rice paddy workers University double degree graduates Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Commerce, affected by floods. Other highlights to take up positions with KPMG in the 25-year-old from Labrador took were an internship in the Ruhr Valley Brisbane and the Gold Coast since the the first step in her career at KPMG's in Germany and a semester at Oxford start of 2016. Gold Coast base. Brookes University in England as part Valuable life experience is among “My overseas experience has given of a student-exchange program. the key attributes that Griffith graduates me an advantage,” she says. “When I’m “The experiences I have gained bring to the firm, according to Richard asked in an interview to give an example through Griffith, combined with my own Watkinson, a Gold Coast-based director of how I have dealt with change, I am able determination to seek them out and make at KPMG. 29 GLOBAL REACH

EXPLORING ASIA

New Colombo Plan Fellow Amarina Smith has a renewed focus on her career path as she takes on a Hong Kong adventure.

After being named the New Colombo of Hong Kong on her way to a together will be interesting. Plan (NCP) Hong Kong Fellow last double degree, a Bachelor of Laws “The Fellowship has really helped year—and one of seven NCP scholars and a Bachelor of Government and me become more focused on what from Griffith—Indigenous rights International Relations. I want to do after my degree and it is advocate Amarina Smith is building on a The six-month stay in Hong Kong opening up so many opportunities.” generational ideal that rests in the value is part of the scholarship program Amarina’s core interest rests with of education. accompanying the Fellowship, which human rights law, and while she also Her mother, Irene Pass, is a high school places Amarina among the highest- sees a future in international diplomacy, teacher in her home town of Rockhampton ranked NCP scholars. it is the potential closer to home that where she schooled Amarina in legal Although she will undertake most of most excites her. studies during her senior year. her law electives in Hong Kong, Amarina “I would love to do both and use “My Mum has been really huge will also explore her interest in diplomacy my international experience back home influence on me,” says Amarina, through an internship offered by the in Australia as well,” she says. Australia’s first Indigenous student to Australian Consulate there. The other six current NCP scholars receive the NCP scholarship. “She’s “I really love Asia because it’s such from Griffith are: Casey Macfarlane always encouraged me to believe that, an interesting place,” Amarina says. (Engineering/Business); Estelle McCabe through education, I can do anything if “Hong Kong, in particular, has (Asian Studies); Grace Yee-Yan Yeung I applied myself.” a history of ethnic minorities, and (Medicine); Inez Botta-Stanwell Amarina’s journey steps up a gear as getting to study that and how (Law/Government and International she spends a semester at The University different cultures manage to live Relations); Monique Filet (Law).

Amarina Smith with Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop and Governor-General Peter Cosgrove

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION GLOBAL REACH 30

A QUESTION OF ORIGIN

The Research Centre for Human Evolution is the first in the world to investigate our origins with a focus on Australia and South East Asia, reports Gemma Chilton.

Africa is dubbed the cradle of humanity, but growing evidence suggests the role of Australia and South East Asia in the story of the origin of our species is bigger than previously thought. Just what was that role—and how the story played out—is the question that leading researchers from a range of disciplines will be seeking to uncover at the new Research Centre of Human Evolution (RCHE), which opened at Griffith University in July 2016. The centre is the first of its kind in the world to focus on human evolution specifically in this region. RCHE director Professor Rainer Grun says one reason human evolution in Australasia hadn’t received close investigation in the past was partly due to difficulty accessing human remains here—but this is changing and access opening up, with Aboriginal Australians starting to “ask the same questions as scientists,” he says. Questions include: Where did we originate? How did we evolve over time? What part do we play

Researchers on site in Indonesia

in the whole picture? his work on the genetic origin of the A shift in our understanding of early first Australians. human evolution—and to this part of The RCHE will cover six research the world—occurred with the surprising themes—ranging from genomics to discovery of the ‘Hobbit’ (Homo rock art research—and it is this diverse floresiensis) in Indonesia in 2003. combination of expertise that Rainer “This was a human species that was says he is most excited about. not supposed to exist,” says Professor “Any work on important human Grun, who led a team that was sites is highly multidisciplinary, to cover instrumental in dating the ‘Hobbit’ all the research aspects of the finds,” specimen to 60,000 years, and laying Professor Grun says. much of the controversy to rest. “We expect that many new exciting But to add a further layer of intrigue, finds of human fossils in our region will RCHE’s leader for archaeology Dr significantly contribute to the fascinating Adam Brumm and fellow researchers puzzle of human evolution,” he says. in Indonesia discovered and dated Professor Grun's own expertise lies remains dating back 10 times further in dating human remains, and he has than the Homo floresiensis, releasing pioneered cutting-edge dating methods. their findings this year to a global buzz Similarly, each of the research theme of reaction. leaders has contributed to important While Professor David Lambert developments and discoveries in their generated similar levels of interest with respective fields. 31 GLOBAL REACH

WATER WARRIORS

A global headquarters for water-saving solutions has moved from Germany to Griffith to continue its vital work. Report by Amy Russell.

Although more than 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, less than three per cent of it is fresh—the rest is seawater and undrinkable. Most of that three per cent is frozen, with a tiny proportion—just five per cent— More than 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water—but most is undrinkable seawater available to satiate humanity’s needs. It’s a resource in need of protection. incorporating input from areas such as knowledge breakthroughs that can The Sustainable Water Future Asia and Latin America, “where issues of be applied to water issues at local, Program (Water Future), launched at water quality are so crucial”, says Water regional and, potentially, global levels. Griffith University’s Australian Rivers Future director Dr Anik Bhaduri, The Solutions Lab will connect science Institute in September 2015, co- who relocated to Brisbane from with policy-making during the Budapest ordinates an international effort to action Bonn in December 2015. Water Summit this year. science-based solutions to global water Anik describes Water Future’s “The problems are global, but we need problems. The program is the central Australian headquarters as a “breeding local solutions,” says Anik. “An assessment water research activity of Future Earth, place, network hub and translator of simply at a country level will not do.” an international environmental research different projects’ scientific findings” for platform for sustainable development other centres operating around the world. and builds on more than a decade of “Our main mission is balancing water for co-ordinated international research that humans and nature,” he says. “Australia is gigalitres of water was used by emerged from the Global Water System the perfect placeTotal to host value the International Australians in 2013–14 (that’s 38 Project (GWSP), which was based at the Secretariat as it can draw on its expertise Sydney Harbours!) University of Bonn in Germany. and innovation in water.” With strong networks in Europe and Australia has Gamingexperienced taxes* water North America, for a decade GWSP scarcity and found solutions, and Anik of sewage is released untreated into worked largely on collecting scientific says the country has an opportunity to water bodies in developing countries evidence on the human impacts on lead in the development of partnerships water systems, which Water Future with internationalExtra governments tourists per year now plans to harness. Connecting more and industries to achieve the global tonnes of polluted waste deposited into than 3000 international members, Sustainable Development Goal for water. waters each year by industry it will address regional water issues with Water FutureOngoing is unique jobs in that it’s global implications. It will also begin adopting a systems approach to water challenges, adds Anik. “By looking at impacts on water availability and the nitrate from agriculture is the world’s effects arising laterConstruction in different jobs places, most common chemical contaminant in with scientists and historians working groundwater aquifers hand-in-hand, the program focuses on the complex interactionsRestaurants defined and bybars the physical hydrological cycle, the biological people in the world don’t have access system, and human beings and their to safe drinking water institutions, as agentsNew hotelsof environmental change,” he says. Water Future has conceptualised people die each year as a result of poor a Water Solutions Lab Network to water supply, sanitation and hygiene identify promising scientific and practical Dr Anik Bhaduri

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION SOCIAL CHANGE 32

Chris Eigeland on his way to the United Nations (left) and launching his Schoolbag project in 2010 SPEAKING UP FOR CHANGE

A lawyer with a passion The Griffith graduate who studied combined to fill me with the confidence for helping disadvantaged a double degree (Law with First-Class and knowledge to seize the opportunities Honours and Arts) spent most of 2016 that have led to this achievement.” schoolchildren is set to uncovering the most important issues At the end of 2015, Chris completed represent Australia at for Australia’s youth. an international associateship in the “There is an unparalleled opportunity Constitutional Court of South Africa, the United Nations, finds for young Australians to contribute to the country’s highest court. Deborah Marshall. the global landscape, and I’m excited And he has more than a sense of to understand how youth are taking on social justice to offer. Chris has a sharp global challenges,’’ he says. business brain, with his company GO1 Chris Eigeland is a young man with a Chris will deliver a report to national nominated as one of only three Australian big future. As Australia’s 2016 Youth leaders at the end of his term and address companies in the Top 100 disruptors of Representative to the United Nations the UN General Assembly in New York the world in 2016. he is poised to take centre stage in as part of the Australian delegation. GO1 is a start-up that gathers a world he has strived to make better “This is an incredible leadership more momentum every year offering for those less fortunate. opportunity which will put me in the same online solutions in particular for Chris co-founded both GO1 (an online room as global leaders and international not-for-profit organisations. learning system) and The Schoolbag, NGOs striving to bring about positive a global initiative that delivered thousands change in the world and improve human Watch a video about of schoolbags, each with supplies enough rights around the globe,” he says. Chris Eigeland’s work at to last a child one year, to developing “My education experience and my griffith.edu.au/alumni/eigeland nations such as Haiti and Vietnam. university experience at Griffith

33 SOCIAL CHANGE

MAKING A SPLASH HELPING HANDS When Olympic hopefuls dive into the pool to train, they’ll soon do it in style. Next year, Griffith will open an Aquatic Centre on its Gold Coast More Indigenous midwives mean better outcomes campus, including a 50 m pool for First People’s health, writes Louise Durack. and a fitness centre. The Aquatic Centre’s home next to the athletics track builds Increased numbers of Indigenous “More broadly across the Griffith upon the campus’s sporting hub, midwifery students at Griffith has been Health Group, we are delighted to helping to integrate social, academic just one of the achievements at the see that the FPHU is being positively and sporting spaces. The facility university’s First People’s Health Unit received by academic staff who are will boost Griffith’s reputation as (FPHU) since its establishment last year. considering the unit’s aims when thinking a passionate sports advocate, by Set up to improve the social, about curriculum design and the way enabling the university to host emotional and cultural wellbeing of our that they’re teaching. community, regional, state and nation’s First Peoples—Aboriginal and “This, coupled with the fact that we national sporting competitions. Torres Strait Islander People—the unit have delivered on our commitment to With the upcoming Gold Coast 2018 has been successful in the recruitment increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Commonwealth Games, and the of 16 Indigenous midwives within Islander student numbers within the Games Village to be located alongside the Griffith Bachelor of Midwifery. Group to nearly 240, is a sure sign the Gold Coast campus, Griffith “Our aim with our Bachelor of that Griffith is positioned as a leader University will have the opportunity Midwifery Research Program is to in the field of Indigenous health.” to play an important role in providing increase our graduating numbers of Griffith’s Bachelor of Nursing the athletes with access to midwives and to further improve the currently has the highest number world-class facilities for training. participation rates, retention and success of Indigenous students at 96, of our students,” says Professor Roianne followed by Social Work (42), AWARD-WINNING West, FPHU director. Bachelor of Psychological Science (36), FACE LIFT and Bachelor of Psychology (20).

The Link building at the Gold Coast Ashley Hughes, left, is a first year midwifery campus received the highest honour student at the Gold Coast campus and Gwen Blom at the Gold Coast/Northern Rivers is a second year midwifery student at Logan Regional Architecture Awards when it was named Building of the Year. Students and visitors stepping off the light rail on the Gold Coast campus can enjoy a stroll through the refurbished building, as they wander past the al fresco bar and into the campus. Three more tenancies and a dining area will be opened later this year.

GOING GREEN

The Griffith Business School is home to the Gold Coast campus’s first renewable energy source. The 57 kW solar array is on the seven-storey building’s roof, providing about 25 per cent of its net power consumption. Linked with low-energy lighting and equipment, and a high efficiency solar-glass facade, the design creates a benchmark for the campus.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION ALUMNI STORIES 34

LOOKING FORWARD, GIVING BACK

Becoming a donor to Griffith University is a special way of making a difference, writes Development and Alumni Director, Gillian French.

There are so many reasons to give, and so many ways to give.

memory of a loved one. In 2015, Griffith University marked 40 years since it opened its doors to students. It also saw the University receive its first major legacy gift from an alumnus. A bequest from Mr Robert Henry “Harry” Gentle will be honoured this year by the University with the establishment of The Robert Gentle Resource Centre, enabling research into Australia’s pioneering individuals, families and organisations. Other bequests have supported our world-leading medical research, the extraordinary musical talents nurtured Griffith Futures Scholarship recipient Matthew Metcalf at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, and more. When people ponder donating to a providing solutions in sectors including In whatever form they take, all cause, thoughts naturally turn to the Asian business, international relations, donations make a difference. All have major charities—the Cancer Council, work-employment relations, tourism, the power to change lives. Each one RSPCA, Salvation Army. However, governance and public policy. is an investment in a better future. increasingly donors are recognising Technology: developing engineering There are so many reasons to the value of universities in meeting and IT expertise for greater efficiency give, and so many ways to give. their philanthropic goals. and sustainability throughout society, The Development and Alumni Office For Griffith University, donor support and embracing the potential of exciting helps connect donors to the causes is inspiring and has more than doubled processes such as 3D printing. they are passionate about. in recent years. Donor generosity is one Donors also support students We thank the community of donors of the keys to success. through initiatives such as Griffith to Griffith University for their support For example, donors are enabling Futures Scholarships, easing financial and we invite others to join them in Griffith’s researchers to continue seeking or personal hardship for talented making a real difference to people’s answers, broadening knowledge and students like Matthew Metcalf (above). lives and the world in which we live. making advances in areas including: Matthew was struggling to meet Health: the search for a cure for malaria, the cost of living away from home and melanoma and spinal cord paralysis. attending university. Thanks to his For more information about providing Humanities: uncovering the secrets scholarship, he can fully focus on his a tax deductible gift to Griffith, visit of human evolution. engineering studies and career goals. griffith.edu.au/development-alumni, Sustainability: providing new knowledge Many donors have themselves email [email protected] or and strategies on climate change, benefited from scholarships and so have call one of our Development water future and other vital a keen insight into their positive impact. Managers for a confidential environmental issues. Meanwhile, some choose to give conversation during business Business: informing policy and a bequest or establish a scholarship in hours on +61 7 5552 7218. 35 ALUMNI STORIES

One of Griffith alumni’s highest flyers, Annabelle Chaplain, chair of Queensland Airports Limited HIGH FLYING ALUMNI Griffith University’s alumni includes some outstanding achievers, including a leading business woman and a young former student at the top of their games, writes Amy Russell.

In 1975, Annabelle Chaplain was among always offered something different; amassed a huge international following. the first of Griffith University’s students a high quality alternative to sandstone,” Now based in LA, he tours the US playing to enrol in Modern Asian Studies. says Annabelle who is among a number shows each weekend to thousands of After graduating, she lived and worked of Griffith graduates leading businesses fans. “When I lived in Australia I’d have in China, before establishing a successful and organisations across the world. to fly 14 hours to America and then try investment-banking career in Australia. For DJ Tyson Illingworth success to squeeze 15 shows into a month before The Griffith Business School’s 2015 came at a young age, and it was a coming home, so living in LA makes things Outstanding Alumnus Award gained a swift climb to the top. Now 28, he a little easier now,” he says. wealth of experience in the financial, was just 19 and studying a Bachelor of Griffith, which awarded him the mining and engineering sectors, and Music and Technology at Queensland 2015 AEL Outstanding Young Alumni of served on several government boards. Conservatorium when he released his first the Year award, was integral to helping In January 2014, Annabelle was appointed album, Look Closer. Reaching No. 2 on the him find success. “The main thing I will Chairman of Queensland Airports Ltd, Australian Dance Charts, this compilation always look back on and remember was and now also serves as the director— saw TyDi (pronounced “tidy”, an alias he that I was thrown into a place where I and only female board member— adopted as a teenager) named the Best was surrounded by insanely talented of Seven Group Holdings Ltd. Breakthrough DJ at the 2010 International musicians of every variety and that “The brilliant lecturers I had so long Dance Music Awards in Miami. really is the best way to become ago were an inspiration and my time at With the success of subsequent a better musician yourself,” he says. Griffith has been a terrific platform for albums, including Shooting Stars—which “I’m happily in a place now where the career I have enjoyed,” Annabelle reached No. 1 on iTunes in Australia, I write and produce work that is exactly says. “To me Griffith University has Canada, UK and Finland— TyDi has how I want it to be,” he says.

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION STAY CONNECTED 36

Our Global Alumni

Our alumni can be found throughout the world and they are succeeding in all areas of life. As part of Griffith University’s acknowledgement of their achievements, events are held to ensure the connection. Maintaining these connections with our alumni, students, industry partners and other friends affirms that university degrees are Guangzhou Alumni Networking Event 2016 not just an education, but also the foundation of a partnership that continues for life. In recent times, Griffith has hosted alumni functions in cities including Beijing, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Canberra, Melbourne and, of course, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Griffith also supports alumni through the Stay Connected Program, an initiative encouraging alumni to stay in touch as well as take part in professional development activities and networking. Employment opportunities, industry mentoring, postgraduate options and global social events all fall within the gamut of Stay Connected. Beijing Alumni Networking Event 2016 Development and Alumni offers several communication options: griffith.edu.au/development-alumni

facebook.com/griffithalumni twitter.com/griffithalumni linkedin.com/groups/104312

Griffith University Alumni is also featured on the LinkedIn professional network, and the email address for general alumni enquiries is [email protected]

These pages present just some of the alumni event highlights of the past year.

Beijing Alumni Networking Event 2016

Beijing Alumni Networking Event 2016 Beijing Alumni Networking Event 2016 37 STAY CONNECTED

Brisbane Riverfire 2016 Cocktail Reception Brisbane Riverfire 2016 Cocktail Reception

Sydney Alumni Networking Event 2016 Canberra Alumni Networking Event 2016

Los Angeles Alumni Networking Event 2016 Hong Kong Alumni Networking Event 2016

Melbourne Alumni Networking Event 2016 Gold Coast Airport Marathon 2016

Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION IN MEMORIAM 38

A VISIONARY IS HONOURED

Jock McIlwain will be remembered as a philanthropist whose support of Griffith University had far-reaching effects, writes Michael Jacobson.

Every time Jock visited Griffith he would talk about his belief in education.

Born in Suva, Fiji, on Boxing Day in 1926, the course of John Robert (Jock) McIlwain’s life was influenced by the engineering work he observed being conducted in Fiji by the New Zealand and US militaries during World War II. After high school he joined Fiji’s Public Works Department as a cadet engineer, then studied engineering at Sydney University before joining the Snowy Mountains Authority and becoming a leading designer on the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme. He moved to the Gold Coast in 1959 and was a major figure in an era of rapid Jock McIlwain helped shape the Gold Coast and was a generous supporter of Griffith University development alongside the likes of Sir Bruce Small. One of Griffith University’s most advanced mathematics and science. Elected to the city council in 1966, generous and enthusiastic supporters, “What I love about science has never a year later Jock first advocated the need Jock McIlwain OAM, DUniv, has passed changed in all these years. You never for a tertiary presence on the Gold Coast. away. He was 89. stop seeking and finding,” said Jock in “A university brings maturity and Acknowledged as a man who a 2013 interview before receiving his depth to a city and even back then I could helped shape the modern Gold Coast, Honorary Doctorate. see what that could mean for a growing Jock was a fervent believer in the “Everything you learn takes you to city like the Gold Coast,” he said. value and power of education. something or somewhere else, to some In recognition of the McIlwains’ The former engineer, developer, other door that needs to be opened. commitment to education, Griffith city councillor and Chamber of Commerce I like opening doors and finding what’s University established the Beverly and Jock president received an Honorary behind them.” McIlwain Award for Excellence in Science. Doctorate from Griffith University Griffith University Vice Chancellor Furthermore, the Science on the GO in 2013. and President, Professor Ian O’Connor, McIlwain Award for Science Education Over many years, Jock and his wife paid tribute to Jock. is awarded annually to Gold Coast Beverly formed a formidable philanthropic “Every time Jock visited Griffith science teachers. partnership, creating and supporting University he would talk about his In June 2015, Jock was awarded a programs covering education, the arts belief in education being the key to Medal in the Order of Australia (OAM) and more. the future,” said Professor O’Connor. for his service to the community through Griffith University began its long- “He loved talking to the students arts and educational organisations. standing association with the McIlwains and the academics and he matched that That same year he was inducted into in 2005 with the launch of the Science enthusiasm with such generous support. the Gold Coast Business Hall of Fame. on the GO outreach project, encouraging The University and the city of Gold Coast secondary students to pursue studies in have lost a great friend.” His wife Beverly continues Jock’s legacy. FUTURE FOUNDATIONS

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Griffith Community and Alumni Magazine | 2016 EDITION GRIFFITH REVIEW Lifelong learning

Subscribe to Australia’s best conversation Griffith Review is Australia’s leading quarterly of new writing and ideas. Continue your education with a vibrant mix of essays, memoir, reportage, fiction and poetry from Australia and abroad. Special offer for Griffith alumni Subscribe at griffithreview.com and enter ALUMNI16 as your promo code at the checkout to receive a 30% discount on any subscription. griffithreview.com