ALUMNI SPECIAL EDITION

125ANNIVERSARY 125th YEAR This university will play its part in

ISSUE 47 underpinning the State of Tasmania for the next 125 years and beyond … the vision of our founders will continue to be realised. The field will remain open to talent.

Professor Peter Rathjen, Vice-Chancellor CHRIS CRERAR

02 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 03 Contents 24 44 06 FROM THE CHAIR 22 FRESH FACES One word sums up the 125th anniversary Celebrating the culmination of years of year for me, and that is ‘pride’ hard work, dedication and learning

07 WELCOME 24 TOGETHER AGAIN These are the first significant celebrations Re-engaging with those around the world as a truly State-wide university who hold the University dear

08 UNIVERSITY ADDRESS 32 HOMECOMING Our mission is to encourage more More than 23,000 people visited during Tasmanians into higher levels of education 18 our first Welcome Home Week 54

125TH IN REVIEW ISSUE 47 11 CELEBRATING CULTURES A festive spirit at a time of institutional 44 renewal and reinvigoration With alumni in 104 countries, there’s no shortage of global ambassadors

18 EDUCATION CHALLENGE 54 WORLD AT THEIR FEET We must have the courage to seek Our reputation for research excellence Tasmanian education solutions attracts international PhD candidates

56 BURNIE BLACK-TIE A refugee-turned-plastic surgeon receives a Foundation Graduate Award

58 LAUNCESTON GALA An inspiring student leader receives a Foundation Graduate Award

11 32

04 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 05 ALASTAIR BETT PEC CHINA FROM THE CHAIR WELCOME Dr Ashley Townsend Professor Peter Rathjen

This year’s 125th anniversary Alumni Chair celebrated one university as one and tales of achievements shared I came to this island relatively Vice-Chancellor famous universities. The high we also teach in partnership has provided the first major Dr Ashley Townsend alumni “family”. by them remind us we stand on recently, four years ago, and Professor Peter regard in which the University with universities in Shanghai and opportunity for us all to celebrate addresses the That family now numbers the shoulders of giants. have been intrigued to observe Rathjen: “Since our is held locally, nationally and Hangzhou. assembled crowd establishment we the University of Tasmania as about 100,000 and, during our Overall, one word sums up that the extraordinary nature internationally, is part of a golden Our research has provided at the Shanghai have embraced one, incorporating all staff, reception. year-long celebrations, I have had 2015 for me, and that is pride. of this university is far better excellence and thread that has run through much strong platforms upon which key alumni and friends from across the great privilege of being able Everywhere I have been, our understood by those who come commitment to free of our efforts to celebrate our parts of the State economy have the current and antecedent to meet many of you. Our young events have been filled with from outside than by those who inquiry.” milestone 125th year. been built or continue to develop. institutions. We have celebrated alumni, interconnected through friends, stories and nostalgia, are of Tasmanian descent. That is, I am proud to be the Vice- This influence has been profound together across all our campuses the digital worlds of Facebook as well as energy and optimism of course, only natural. Chancellor of the University of in the historic construction of (Hobart, Launceston, Burnie, and Twitter, represent where the for the future. The affection Every Tasmanian alive Tasmania. Since our foundation the Hydro, the establishment Sydney and China) and have future of our global community and pride from our alumni today has grown up with the we have embraced excellence of poppy industry, or driving reunited at venues across the lies. We can rest easier knowing for the University has been knowledge we have a university and commitment to free inquiry future growth in agriculture and globe (Singapore, Malaysia, the world will be a better place ever apparent. Thank you for here and understands, at least in the creation, preservation, aquaculture. We are recognised Hong Kong, China, UK and the in the hands of these amazing embracing our anniversary to some degree, why it exists communication and application nationally and internationally in US). For the first time we have young people. celebrations and taking the time and what it does. But when I of knowledge and for scholarship. distinctive themes as broad as the Our mid-career working to reconnect with the University. go elsewhere around Australia, Today, we are recognised for environment, Antarctic, maritime, alumni have reconnected in It has been a real privilege or around the world, I find the breadth and quality of astronomy, health, law, the arts, grand numbers at our events and honour to serve as Chair people are very curious about our teaching and learning, our chemistry and earth sciences. ISSUE 47 during the year and it was of Alumni in the University of this university and how it has strengths in research and its The celebrations this year are exciting to hear where strong Tasmania’s 125th anniversary evolved. application, the scope of our the first significant anniversary educational foundations forged year. Established in 1890, we are international engagement and an as a truly State-wide university. at the University of Tasmania quite old – one of only four ambitious infrastructure program At the time of our 100th have helped shape outstanding With very best wishes, universities in Australia founded that is transforming Tasmanian anniversary, the University was careers. Older alumni, before Federation: Sydney first, CBDs. confined to Hobart. We are now representative of the deep Dr Ashley Townsend then Melbourne, then Adelaide, History tells a story in which able to service the whole of the heritage and longevity of the Chair, then the University of Tasmania. a series of transitions have State, as our name suggests we institution, were also out in force University of Tasmania We, in fact, predate many very transformed the University of should. at our celebrations. The stories Alumni Committee Tasmania into what we have today. We are a bridge to the world, The first of these transitions is a bridge between this island and our educational reach; in 1893, the world of ideas, a bridge to there were fewer than a dozen the world of ethnicities and of students. Today, our enrolments cultures. We bring the world total more than 33,000. to this island and we bring this The second transition can be island to the world. One word sums up 2015 for me, and that When I go elsewhere around seen in the geographical presence In our 125th year, we have of the University. We began life much to celebrate, and equally, is pride. Everywhere I have been, our Australia, or around the world, on a single site, the former Hobart much to look forward to. High School on the Domain. We events have been filled with stories and I find people are very curious now span the State, with well- Professor Peter Rathjen equipped campuses in Hobart, Vice-Chancellor nostalgia, as well as energy and optimism about this university and Launceston and Burnie, and also in Sydney. In an increasingly for the future. how it has evolved. global competitive environment

06 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 07 STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY ADDRESS

Shared vision … the Premier, the Honourable Will Hodgman, right, and Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen sign a 10-year agreement between the University and the State Government. Also pictured is the Executive Director, Advancement, Young Dawkins.

carry out research. It will provide an evidence base so we can understand what’s working and what’s not, and it will put forward solutions that can be tested by academics. It will tackle the issues of teacher VICE-CHANCELLOR’S training and of student aspiration and culture. Why do students in Tasmania not aspire to education as STATE OF THE AARON SPURR part of their life? UNIVERSITY ADDRESS We want to put in place new degrees that are attractive to those Tasmanians who have not previously chosen to enter higher education, by aligning courses more closely with the world of the Welcome Home Week, 31-08-2015 The University has increasingly emerged workplace. Universities have a special place in the life of a We want the prospect of a job, or the prospect of community. It is a place that has extended over as an economic driver in its own right a better job, to be a drawcard that can bring people the best part of 1000 years. Universities transmit … we’re one of the few elements in the to the University. We want to offer shorter, more knowledge of the human journey to future affordable, vocationally-orientated degrees that generations, who in turn discover how best to use State economy to contribute significant will attract Tasmanians and also make sure they that knowledge. are articulated effectively with bachelor programs; Universities also prepare people for the growth over the past few years. so people who come to the University can decide highly skilled jobs of the future, to be leaders themselves whether to enter the workforce or to in developing and adapting new knowledge to arriving at this point, so too will we be influential move to the bachelors programs that will expand revitalise our economy, strengthen our society and in securing the best possible social, economic and their education in the most meaningful sense. ISSUE 47 tackle the many problems we will face. cultural outcomes for this State into the future. The University has increasingly emerged as an A small group of very special universities bring That has been now articulated in a Memorandum economic driver in its own right. In fact, we’re a particular local context to these philosophies, of Understanding, which was signed on the opening one of the few elements in the State economy to understanding that those educated locally are weekend of Welcome Home Week between the contribute significant growth over the past few more likely to stay to populate the professions and Premier and the University. years. deliver locally relevant innovation. We rank among So where are we headed? This State has The latest modelling shows we contribute about these institutes. remarkable strengths, but its potential future is $1.7 billion a year to the Tasmanian economy, We know universities value the importance of constrained by poor educational attainment and close to 4 per cent of State gross product. Some of knowledge, culture and education for their own retention figures, especially in the regional areas. this reflects increased productivity from a better- sake. But we also understand that in education lies The number of lower-skilled and semi-skilled jobs educated population, but much arises from the future economic, social, intellectual and cultural which have historically been attractive to school- contribution our researchers make to existing prosperity for our nation. The challenge is to leavers have shrunk as those industries have scaled industries in Tasmania: agriculture, aquaculture, couple local context with international relevance back. The industries which remain are, and have to tourism and the arts. And some of it relates to the and impact; I think this University does that be, innovative, which in turn demands a more skilled creation of the new high-value industries Tasmania particularly well. and better-equipped workforce. will need as it undertakes the economic transition In educational terms, in research terms and in Encouraging more Tasmanians into higher levels required to bring prosperity to the State. outreach terms this University has for 125 years of education will be key to addressing both of these We have accordingly committed with the State grown and developed in lockstep with Tasmania, challenges and is a problem the University has Government to a strong and strengthening research while Tasmania and its economy have developed decided to confront. performance, and specifically to retain our ranking in lockstep with the University because, ultimately, We took an early important step towards that among the top 10 Australian research universities. the two are entwined. goal this year with the announcement of the Peter We see a future in which regional economies and In recent years, there’s been a growing Underwood Centre for Educational Attainment, communities are rebuilt around knowledge and consensus in the University, and in government a partnership of the University, Government learning by the University, the Government and the and across the political spectrum in Tasmania that House and the Tasmanian Government. The Peter community working together. just as this University has been pivotal in Tasmania Underwood Centre has a broad mandate. It will Continued on page 10

08 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 09 TERROIR/FENDER KATSALIDIS 125thyear in review

Young at heart Continued from page 9 to link the culture and economic activity that is the … An artist’s These are not just high ideals. This idea of University with the culture and prosperity of the impression of the student partnership is now enshrined in the north of cities we wish to have on this island. For students, accommodation the State, in the form of a Memorandum of we wish to build a city-based ecosystem that project in Hobart’s Understanding between the University, the enables them to balance education, social life and CBD, showing the Government, Launceston City Council and TasTAFE. paid work. walkway through Finally, we recognise that to achieve all of our Our University was born in a time of relative the site between the existing ambitions we must have campuses that are visible upheaval and out of a belief it was required to Elizabeth Street to the Tasmanian community and attractive to secure the future of what was then a relatively ISSUE 47 shops and the students, staff and scholars. We see an opportunity young colony. One does not have to look too proposed café and to position Tasmanian cities as university cities, deeply to see parallels to where we are today. Student Centre. recognising that the great cities of the world so The enthusiastic reception for the series of public often have a student body at their heart. forums and lectures and the many other events This is evident in Hobart where we have invested during Welcome Home Week underscored a very in iconic world-class centres of excellence built successful experiment no other Australian university around our research themes, beautiful sustainable has had the ambition to undertake. buildings that are matched to staff and student That response encourages me in the belief this needs – the Institute for Marine and Antarctic university will play its part in underpinning the state Studies building, which has forever changed the of Tasmania for the next 125 years and beyond, cityscape of Hobart’s waterfront; the Medical and in turn be underpinned by the support of the Science Precinct next to the Royal Hobart Hospital; Tasmanian community. The vision of our founders the student accommodation building on the corner will continue to be realised. The field will remain of Melville and Elizabeth streets; and the creative open to talent. industries and performing arts development next to the Theatre Royal. This is an edited excerpt from the State of the We see similar potential for new campuses in the University Address given by Vice-Chancellor north and the north-west. And it is our ambition Professor Peter Rathjen on August 31. Our milestone year has For students we wish to build a city-based brought together alumni, ecosystem that enables them to balance former and current staff education, social life and paid work. from far afield.

010 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 011 125TH YEAR IN REVIEW

COPENHAGEN Remarkably, this small island’s University has produced 109 Rhodes Scholars but we’re much more unusual in having a princess among our alumnae. The University was delighted when alumna Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark agreed to serve as patron of our 125th anniversary. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Rathjen, recalled in his State of the University Address visiting her in Copenhagen: “She kept WRITER asking me about my office. After Peter Cochrane about the fourth time I said, ‘Why are you asking about my office?’ I couldn’t understand this. And it turned out her mother, Henrietta, was the executive assistant to a former Vice-Chancellor (her father John being an Emeritus Professor of Mathematics). As I shook hands with her I looked out the bay A REUNION windows of her palace and there on the lawn was a trampoline and two soccer goals and I thought, ‘Here is Australia right-bang in the middle of FOR THE AGES Copenhagen’.”

If the University of Tasmania is a Then the festivities started to SYDNEY family, albeit a widely dispersed one, build like a concerto, with the first, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 this was the grandaddy of all get- in Launceston, of three state-wide The 125th Anniversary festivities began togethers, a year-long celebration Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra early, at 1pm on Boxing Day, when a of the University’s past, present and concerts and the first, in Singapore, of cannon blast signalled the start of the ISSUE 47 anticipated future. Certainly it was 18 alumni receptions across Tasmania, annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, the biggest such event for Tasmania the mainland and abroad. and the University-sponsored Cougar II, for 125 years – and is believed to be The 125 Stories project, in which started the challenging journey south, the first event of its kind in Australia. anyone with a current or historical easily identifiable among the jostling The University is proud of its status connection to the University was vessels by its black carbon-fibre mainsail as Australia’s fourth-oldest university invited to put pen to pixel, was launched emblazoned with the red lion insignia. but this anniversary was as much in Launceston, during a Civic Reception It wasn’t to be Cougar II’s year – the about forward-thinking as it was about hosted by the Lord Mayor, Albert TP52 finished 13th – but alumni skipper reflection. van Zetten, and in Hobart by the Tony Lyall and his crew did succeed in Thus it has been a year of receptions Governor, Her Excellency Professor getting the University’s year off to a and tours, of forums and lectures, of the Honorable Kate Warner AM, at the flying start, watched by a national and morning teas and dinners, of cocktail University Club, just up the road from international TV audience. parties and concerts, of exhibitions her beloved Tasmanian Law Reform and displays, of rugby and rowing, of Institute. royal patronage (courtesy of alumna Forums in a number of guises, Crown Princess Mary) and government with various partner organisations support, and of Test Cricket signage (the Mercury and The Advocate and Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race newspapers and the Burnie City exposure (in the form of branded Council among them) followed,

competitor Cougar II). exploring a variety of topics of vital PETER MATHEW On dry land the celebrations interest to the Tasmanian community – officially kicked off with a cocktail education, agriculture, culture and the FRANNE VOIGT\ AUSTRALSCOPE reception at the new Institute arts, health and tourism. for Marine and Antarctic Studies waterfront building in early January. Continued on page 14

012 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 013 125TH YEAR IN REVIEW

SANDY BAY THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2015 One of the major set pieces of the As always, the field Anniversary year, the 125 Stories project, is an illuminating exercise in crowdsourcing. is open to talent Students, alumni, current and former staff and members of the community have been invited to share their stories about the University, which are then posted on a dedicated website to complement an historical timeline (utas.edu.au/125). The project’s Southern launch, by the Governor, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Kate Warner AM, was in the form of a cocktail reception at the University Club, Sandy Bay campus. Photography – Karen Brown

Stories to tell … Clockwise from top left, Our Place, Our Future – Arts and Culture forum moderator Professor Richard Eccleston; panellist Professor Kit Wise, Head of the Tasmanian College of the Arts; Professor David Rich and Professor Don Chalmers; and the Advancement Office’s Gaye French with, from left, donors Professor June Olley, Dr Daphne Cooper and Dr Elizabeth Cobbold.

Continued from page 12 ISSUE 47 Those studying creative arts at the artists on the building of a traditional Second home … LAUNCESTON University were afforded two unique Balinese Ogoh-Ogoh monster (with The Governor, Her THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2015 Excellency Professor opportunities to put their stamp on the non-traditional name of Jessica), With nearly 8300 students from the North the Honourable Kate MONA’s Dark Mofo festival program. which then featured in a cleansing Warner AM, the currently enrolled and nearly 8000 resident In the first, Master of Architecture ritual – that is, it went up in flames University’s first female alumni, Launceston’s strong association students worked with the Sydney- on the final night of the Winter Law Professor and first with the University was formally recognised based bamboo design collective Cave Feast. The first University Dinner Dean of the Faculty with a civic reception hosted by the Lord of Law, arrives at the Urban to design The Hothouse, a was held mid-year, a black-tie event Mayor, Albert van Zetten. southern launch of the large structure on Hobart’s waterfront in a dramatically lit Burnie Arts and 125 Stories project. The function, at the Queen Victoria which would host three days of Function Centre, with Launceston Also pictured from left, Museum and Art Gallery, also saw the thought leadership around the following in early September and her husband Richard Northern launch of the 125 Stories project. challenge of improving educational Hobart to round them off on Warner, Professor Jamie It was held a week after the Vice- Kirkpatrick and former Chancellor officially welcomed six outcomes in Tasmania. December 11. leader of the Australian Not to be outdone, students from A major set piece, Welcome Home Greens Senator outstanding scholars – all recruited as the Tasmanian College of the Arts Week, from August 29-September 5, Christine Milne. part of the Academic Profile Reinvestment and also Asian Languages and Studies which also encompassed Open Day Program – to the city. Less than a fortnight collaborated with three visiting and Research Week, provided the The chains that bind … Above, later, the University signed a Memorandum Lyndle and Lord Mayor Albert largest platform for alumni and former of Understanding with the Council, the van Zetten, Faith Layton AM and staff to reconnect with the University, 125 Stories project contributors State Government and TasTAFE, paving to relive memories, contemplate the Don Wing and Eric Gool at the the way for formal discussions around the changes that have taken place, and Launceston Civic Reception; right, establishment of a new campus at Inveresk, ruminate on the direction that it is now former Chancellor and former which could house an additional 8000 Governor Sir Guy Green AC, KBE, heading. students more than the existing site at CVO – one of five produced by this As always, they were reminded, the University – thanks the northern Newnham. field is open to talent …. and north-west contributors. Photography – Chris Crerar

014 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 015 125TH YEAR IN REVIEW MONSTER MEETS ITS MATCH A traditional Balinese Ogoh-Ogoh monster (with the non-traditional name of Jessica), created by University of Tasmania students working with three visiting artists, goes up in smoke on the final night of Dark Mofo’s Winter Feast. Primary-school students also participated in the project, supported by the University’s Asia Institute Tasmania.

ISSUE 47 RICHARD JUPE/NEWSPIX

016 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 017 THE HOTHOUSE

THE FUTURE OF LEARNING

The elder statesman of higher education in Australia, Professor Kwong Lee Dow, doesn’t WRITER believe Tasmania needs Peter Cochrane an education revolution.

Professor Lee Dow, who joined the University of Tasmania Council last year, chaired a Commonwealth Review of Teaching and Teacher Education in THE CHALLENGE 2002-03 and is Deputy Chair of the National Institute for Quality Teaching and School OF EDUCATION Leadership. “All the evidence at the moment points to small, incremental changes The project’s title was not intended University of Tasmania and Clemenger Another ground-breaking initiative rather than a revolution,” to be ironic – a massive open-sided Tasmania. It was designed by Sydney’s this anniversary year has been the he told ABC Northern bamboo structure erected on the Cave Urban together with Master of establishment, in co-operation Tasmania Drive listeners Salamanca lawns at the beginning Architecture students. with Government House and the on the eve of The Future of winter called The Hothouse. The Hothouse collaboration was one State Government, of the Peter of Learning Opportunities Rather it was conceived as a of several responses in its 125th year Underwood Centre for Educational in Northern Tasmania, the crucible of creativity, a generator by the University to the vexing issue of Attainment, named after the late second forum of the 125th of ideas on how to address one low-retention rates in Tasmanian high Governor, and the subsequent Anniversary Northern of the biggest challenges facing schools and low participation rates in launch of the Children’s University, Forum series. “That’s a Tasmania – the need to boost tertiary education. catering for seven to 14-year-olds. positive,” he said. “From ISSUE 47 educational outcomes. And as the As the State’s only university, The Children’s University operates what we know around the 48 participants discovered over this institution is uniquely placed as under the mantle of the Peter world these changes relate the three days, the chill in the air a change agent, working with the Underwood Centre. to family circumstances certainly helped concentrate the Tasmanian Government and other “The disappointing educational and the culture of small mind. Staged as part of the Dark institutions to foster a love of learning outcomes in Tasmania reflect a communities. That is not Mofo festival, The Hothouse was a among children that will carry them tangle of influences which include, something that changes collaboration between MONA, the into adulthood. among other things, a unique quickly. You can pour lots history and demography, the of money in very fast but Crucible of You can pour lots of educational attainment of older you won’t make those creativity … From left, generations, the economic changes rapidly. That takes The Hothouse circumstances of our communities, money in very fast but time and so a slower build, forum panellists, and geographical dispersion of which is purposeful and James Riggall, our communities,” Vice-Chancellor substantial and continuing, Lila Landowski Professor Peter Rathjen said at the you won’t make those is the way to go.” and Lauren Gower with time of the Peter Underwood Professor Lee Dow Radio National’s Centre launch. was moderator of the Life Matters “We must have the courage to changes rapidly. forum, which included presenter seek Tasmanian solutions that can panellists Kym Goodes Natasha Mitchell. improve our education, integrating from the Tasmanian learnings from overseas with the Council of Social Services; LUKE BOWDEN/NEWSPIX unique local context, harnessing the Lynn Wylie-Watson of

capabilities of researchers across SCOTT GELSTON Ravenswood Child and disciplines, and grounding advice in Family Centre; and the evidence and research.” Tasmanian University Continued on page 20 Union’s Clark Cooley.

018 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 019 THE HOTHOUSE

will be a detailed review from which you can expect to see significant changes to our curriculum that will aim to make higher education more attractive to many more Tasmanians.” Professor Rathjen concluded his remarks by throwing down a gauntlet. “If we can maintain this conversation, perhaps enrich this conversation, and get it embedded into the mindset of those charged with carving out the system then perhaps we can do better than we are doing at the moment,” Professor NIKKI DAVIS-JONES/NEWSPIX Rathjen said. “Let’s not waste the impetus, let’s preserve the view of JASON PURDIE the neutral space as a place where Building aspiration … Young spectators JASON PURDIE inspect the University-sponsored ideas emerge but let’s link those Cougar II at Constitution Dock. ideas with effective outcomes.”

Continued from page 18 Thinking big … the Burnie City Council, to stage James Riggall who taught at the The University is also a partner Above left, The public forums in Hobart and Burnie Newnham campus HITLab for five with the State Government in Hothouse panellists, respectively. The Northern Forum years. … what The Hothouse has done from left, Grattan Bigger Things, a project aimed Institute CEO John series in Launceston also included Community participation in at building student aspiration Daley, economist education among its themes. affecting change in education was a for tertiary education. It involves Saul Eslake, The impetus for all these recurring theme. is create a ripple that is going to Hobart College, Huonville School Professor David initiatives can be found in the For Dr Landowski, recognising and its feeder primary schools. Adams and the statistics quoted by Radio National’s that each community had different ANU’s Greg Lehman; turn into a signficant wave A different kind of state-wide above right, Ben Life Matters host Natasha Mitchell, needs was crucial. partnership saw the University Askey, a part-time in her introduction to a live “One idea [we discussed] was – Professor John Williamson ISSUE 47 team up with the Mercury and teacher at Huonville broadcast from Hobart’s Odeon to find out the needs of each The Advocate newspapers, and Primary School, Theatre of a forum at which 12 ideas community by holding more of these and University of from The Hothouse sessions were Hothouse-style forums … to figure already – as one of Tasmania’s for the Peter Underwood Centre Tasmania paramedic MAKING HER MARK practice student presented to the community: out what resources they had, what greatest leaders. for Education Attainment at the Caitlin Scaife at the “Just 47 per cent of Tasmanian expertise was available,” she said. “It’s often said that to “The leadership role of University of Tasmania. launch of the Bigger children finish Year 12, only a third Mr Riggall’s session zeroed in on encourage is the most important the position (of Governor) is “It’s really interesting,” she Things initiative. of public school students finish Year the idea of mentorship, playing with somewhat daunting,” she says. says. “I’ve found that in this role of the Governor,” says 12; the youth unemployment rate the idea that it takes a village to “The sorts of things I’m role you really learn a lot about Her Excellency, Professor the has skyrocketed to 20 per cent in raise a child. interested in, of course, are a education at a grassroots level. some areas. This is despite 90 per The three panellists were later Honourable Kate Warner AM. challenge: changing attitudes We’ve already visited a number of

cent of Tasmanian kids saying they joined by Professor Rathjen, who which lead to family violence, schools including district schools, PETER MATHEW think education is important, despite pointed to the active debate across After 11 months in the role as and improving the position of trade training centres and early Tasmania spending more money Tasmania about what education Tasmania’s 28th Governor, Her women. Even though we have so education programs such as per capita on education than other means and how it is that we might Excellency has already made her many women going to university, Launch into Learning that I wasn’t states …” do it better. mark in terms of giving a greater we still have the gender pay gap; really aware of. Passion for reform … The Governor, The forum featured three of the “We have to get to the stage platform to social justice issues, these are important issues. “I’m in a position to find out Her Excellency, Professor the participants, one from each session, where every Tasmanian child, and family violence, sexual assault “I very much want to what’s happening around the state Honourable Kate Warner AM is set to become entrenched as one of ROSEWARNE/NEWSPIX all with University of Tasmania links: also those mature-age people that and sexual violence and gender encourage women in whatever and to feed that back into this Tasmania’s greatest leaders. Lauren Gower, a student from the haven’t been through the education equality – issues that aren’t the they do, but an education for a new university centre.” North-West who is undertaking a system, see that the natural usual news fodder. woman is so important because The widely-published move she hopes to continue Masters of Research in Philosophy; route that their life will follow is Add her passion for law reform it’s the gateway to having the criminologist and former head indefinitely. neuroscientist and Wicking to get themselves educated to a and education to her natural ability to live independently.” of the University of Tasmania “The University is essential to Dementia Research and Education reasonable level, that being a level ability to encourage and inspire, Her Excellency is excited Law School and Law Reform our future. It really has such an Getting involved … Frances Underwood promotes the Peter Underwood Centre for Educational Attainment with the help of Centre lecturer Dr Lila Landowski; that is appropriate to them,” he said. and Her Excellency is set to about her role as the inaugural Institute continues to work at the important role.” Windermere Primary School students. and Launceston entrepreneur “Over the next six months there become entrenched – if she isn’t Chair of the Advisory Committee University one day a week – a – Jodi De Cesare

020 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 021 FRESH FACES CHRIS MCGRATH/GETTY IMAGES SCOTT GELSTON CHERIE COOPER CHRIS CRERAR KAREN BROWN

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Megan Dykman Geoff Fox Donnamay Brown Hamish Peacock Ralph Middenway Bachelor of Applied Science Bachelor of Nursing Master in Clinical Bachelor of Engineering PhD in Music Composition (Marine Environment) with Age: 47 Psychology (Civil) with Honours Age: 82 First-class Honours Age: 27 Age: 24 Age: 22 For Geoff Fox, going to At 82 years young, university in 2011 was a A real desire to make Balance is important Dr Ralph Middenway There’s only a one- frightening step. “I was a difference in caring in javelin throwing, has no plans to stop hour window in a day leaving secure, full-time for the elderly led particularly to a learning and working when Megan Dykman work to go into the Queensland-based champion javelin- any time soon. In fact, can safely dive to the unknown, hoping that it Honours student thrower such as Hamish he says he doesn’t know bottom of the Tamar all worked out,” he said. Donnamay Brown to the Peacock. For Hamish, the meaning of the River near George Town. Four years later, University of Tasmania. getting the balance right word “retire”. But the 22-year-old Geoff walked across the Initially taking up a over the past six-and- Dr Middenway `v has been diving since stage at the Launceston position as a Research a-half years has meant was presented with she was a young child graduation ceremony in Assistant in the School combining a rigorous his PhD in Music and the river is like August. The gamble had of Medicine, Donnamay training schedule and Composition in August an extension of her paid off and, at 47, pursued her interests his participation in after three years of Launceston backyard Geoff was a newly in aged-care enrolling major international study at the University’s – fun and familiar and qualified nurse. “I had a in a Master in Clinical competitions such as the Conservatorium of full of secrets. For the young family and a Psychology. She worked Commonwealth Games Music. past year, Megan has range of jobs – but never with residents and and the IAAF World Dr Middenway has been studying the a career – all focused staff in nursing homes Championships with his been passionate about ISSUE 47 taxonomy of soft corals on meeting the needs across southern engineering studies. music his entire life. in the Tamar for her of my family,” he said. “I Tasmania for her thesis, “It has been a “I write music to be Honours thesis, and her remember coming Sleep and Agitation in supportive environment,” performed, not for painstaking comparisons home one day and Nursing-home Residents he says of his time at the bits of paper. It’s to be and tricky DNA analysis saying, ‘I don’t want to with and without University. “I have had enjoyed,” he said. have resulted in the go back’.” Dementia. a good bunch of mates “I don’t see the PhD discovery of six new Geoff’s wife, Sarah- “The course was and the lecturers really as hard work, I see species of soft coral. Jane Fox, was already pretty amazing,” she said. tried to help out when it as more a natural IMAS Launceston studying part-time at the “It was very practical and needed, though I was progression of what I’ve senior lecturer University of Tasmania. hands-on with lecturers pretty independent.” been doing.” Dr Jeffrey Wright said it She walked across the who had actually worked was inspirational to see same stage in August, in the field which helped Megan complete her graduating with her to give us further insight ‘I learnt a lot about myself. degree in Launceston Master of Teaching. as we studied.” and then make such a Though it had been Further to graduating It was psychologically very big impact with her decades since he had with her Masters in the Honours project. last studied, Geoff took August ceremonies, her challenging. You have to, “She really has done the plunge. “I learnt a research efforts have

CHRIS MCGRATH/GETTY IMAGES some fantastic work on lot about myself. It was also been recognised in a way, cage your own THE CLASS OF 2015 this project – combining psychologically very internationally too. A graduation ceremony is always an occasion of great joy as people from all walks of life celebrate the culmination of years of hard challenging technical challenging,” he said. Her Masters thesis demons and face up to work, dedication and learning. Three joyous ceremonies were held in Hobart on August 14, when 1223 graduated, while more diving, electron “You have to, in a way, was recently presented what you’re capable of’ than 480 received their degrees or diplomas at a ceremony in Launceston the following day. “Throughout this year, we have been microscopy and DNA cage your own demons with an IPA Junior honouring both the past and future of the University,” noted Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen. “Graduations are the perfect sequence analysis,” and face up to what Research Award in – Geoff Fox, Bachelor of Nursing illustration of this.” he said. you’re capable of.” Psychogeriatrics.

022 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 023 ‘Learning is forever. Marion Jones

Marion Jones and her sister Dr Tan Sri Dato Seri Effendi Norwawi Bonnie Dobson-Jones were Bloomberg TV Malaysia Chairman And as a university community among the guests at the Dr Tan Sri Dato Seri Effendi Norwawi first reception of the year, relished the opportunity to play the Hobart Young Alumni alumni event host and MC at the Professionals networking Kuala Lumpur reception. – all of us supporting and event. Junior Choong/City Photo Service Aaron Spurr/Hoak Photography helping – we pledge to always aspire to that highest ideal’ OUR – Young Dawkins, Executive Director, Advancement ALUMNI COME

ISSUE 47 TOGETHER

Dr Christobel Mattingley AM Tom MacLurkin Author Dr Christobel Mattingley AM, who began Tom MacLurkin was her University of Tasmania among the guests at studies as a 16-year-old in the Brisbane reception, 1947, hosted the Adelaide where the Queensland reception. She was presented Integrity Commissioner with an Honorary Doctorate Richard Bingham of Letters during the August proposed the alumni 2015 graduations. toast to the University. Kathryn Thomas Photography Ali Choudhy Photography

Conceived as a platform to re-engage with those who hold the University of Tasmania dear, 18 alumni receptions have been

staged around the world this year, from Sydney to Shanghai, from Melbourne to New York. They’ve been, in the words of the Vice- KAREN BROWN Chancellor, Professor Peter Rathjen, “astonishingly well-attended”, bringing together – over cocktails and canapes – graduates from diverse backgrounds working in an extraordinary variety of fields.

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Adelaide Melbourne 29.05.2015 10.06.2015

Nearly 150 alumni attended the RACV City Club Dr Christobel Mattingley AM graduated from the reception, at which the alumni event host and MC University of Tasmania in 1951 and though a resident was Dr Peter Binks (B.Sci 1982), former CEO of of South Australia for many years, has maintained her the General Sir John Monash Foundation, more Tasmanian connections via her writing. The author of recently assisting with the establishment of more than 50 books was alumni event host and MC the Wade Institute for Entrepreneurship at the for this reception at the National Wine Centre. University of Melbourne. Photography – Kathryn Thomas Photography – Naomi Jones

 … what we are really Hangzhou 04.07.2015 ISSUE 47 celebrating this year are Notable alumni guests the people who make our at the Sheraton Wetland Park Resort reception included Hua Ertian, university so singular Vice-President of Zhejiang University of Technology, and and distinctive Pan Baisong, Dean of Zhejiang’s International – Young Dawkins, Executive Director, Advancement College. Speakers included event host and MC Lifang (Julie) You, who spoke warmly Brisbane of her six-month 09.06.2015 secondment from Zhejiang to the then Public Relations and Queensland Integrity Commissioner Richard University Extension Bingham (LLB 1976, Dip. Welfare Law 1985) was a Unit at the Newnham VIP guest for this reception at Brisbane Convention campus in 2006-07, and and Exhibition Centre. Pip Courtney (BA 1986), Alumni Committee Chair host of ABC-TV’s Landline program, acted as alumni Dr Ashley Townsend. event host and MC. Photography - Zhang Xiongwei Ali Choudhy Photography

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 Perth 27.05.2015

MC and co-host Damian Reardon (BE/ MBA 2011) grew up at Lymington, Tasmania (population less than 50) and during his time at university travelled to and from the family farm, a round trip of 126km  each day. He is now Sydney employed by La Mancha 20.04.2015 Resources Australia in WA as a geotechnical … develop a deep affection engineer. Chair of the Of our 57,000 alumni living in Australia, more 125th Anniversary for the University, largely than 5000 of them reside in New South Wales. Committee, Dr David The Honourable Warwick Smith AM (LLB Rich did double duty 1979), a former Federal Government Minister at this Bells Function because it reshapes their who is now Senior Managing Director of the reception, acting as ANZ Bank, acted as alumni event host and MC both University event for this reception at Sydney Customs House. host and the keynote lives in a profound way … Brett Rylance/Sydney Hills Photography speaker. Kingsley Klau/PhotoCoffee – University of Tasmania Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen

 ISSUE 47 Hobart Hong Kong 27.02.2015 02.07.2015

The ball was in Merran Ramsay’s court at this Young The Australian Consul Alumni Professionals networking reception at the General to Hong Tasmanian School of Arts. Ms Ramsay (BA/LLB 2005), Kong, Paul Tighe, and an Alumni Committee member who works as a representatives from Senior Policy Analyst in the Office of the Tasmanian our partner university Economic Regulator, was alumni host and MC for this Hong Kong Universal event, the very first of the 125th Anniversary alumni Education were among receptions. Aaron Spurr/Hoak Photography guests at this Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel and Towers reception, where the alumni event host and MC was Stuart Valentine (BA/LLB Hons 1981), who has been based in Hong Kong since 1986, working as a lawyer with leading Australian, English and US firms.

Sean Baylis/White Box Photography

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  Kuala Lumpur Singapore 12.03.2015 11.03.2015

School of Law and Alumni Committee member Leading Malaysian Associate Professor Rick Snell was a convivial politicians Dr Tunku addition to the touring party for this reception at Abdul Aziz Ibrahim, a the Sheraton Towers. VIPs included Australia’s Trade Senator, and Hannah Yeo, Commissioner, Tracy Harris; her Australian Trade Speaker of Selangor State Commission colleague Sharifah Khairunnisa and Legislative Assembly DFAT’s Clele White. Host and MC was Richard Ngo. – both alumni - were Photography – Fay Yeo Le Fei among the VIP guests at this Le Royal Meridien reception. Event host and MC was Dr Tan Sri Dato Seri Effendi Norwawi, the Chairman of Bloomberg TV Malaysia. Dr Effendi holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) majoring in Development Administration from the University of Tasmania. He was also conferred an Honorary Law Degree in 2000 and was made Adjunct Professor (Faculty of Business) in 2008. ‘The University has now Junior Choong/City Photo Service Shanghai become pivotal to the 06.07.2015 ISSUE 47 future of Tasmania … The Le Royal Meridien reception’s guests included Graeme Meehan, Consul-General to Shanghai. Event – Distinguished alumnus the Honourable Warwick Smith AM, former Federal Government minister host and MC Dr Jingjing Wang graduated from the University of Tasmania with a PhD in 2013 and is  now an invaluable member of the Tasmanian School Canberra of Business and Economics teaching team based at 18.10.2015 Shanghai Ocean University. She calls both Hobart and Shanghai home, regularly returning to her “magical’’ Tasmania. Former Chancellor Photography – Wei Tian Zhang/PEC China Dr Damian Bugg AM, QC hosted this reception, which attracted 100 alumni, including Senator Lisa Singh and John Shaw, Senior Advisor to Senator Eric Abetz. Also in attendance: Vice- Chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen and former Vice-Chancellor Emeritus Professor Alec Lazenby AO.

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WRITER Peter Cochrane WHERE THE

A collection of ‘vices’ … The University’s four living Vice-Chancellors came together at the start of Welcome Home Week to tour the partially restored HEART IS …. Domain House: from left, Professor Don McNicol (1996-2002); Professor Peter Rathjen (2011-present From gala dinners to bush-tucker luncheons, from government receptions day); Emeritus Professor Alec Lazenby AO (1982- 1991) and Professor Daryl Le Grew (2003-2010). to college reunions, from highland games to rowing challenges, the first The empty chair represents the late Professor Alan Welcome Home Week to be staged by an Australian university proved to Gilbert (1991-1995), who melded the University and the Tasmanian State Institute of Technology into the be the crowning week of a year of 125th Anniversary celebrations. one institution. CHRIS CRERAR

032 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 033 WELCOME HOME

Creative exchanges … Campus cakes … Panellists in the research and higher education sector in Tasmania Clockwise, Emeritus the How Culture by increasing the University’s turnover to at least Professor Alec Lazenby and the Arts AO, officiates in Hobart $1 billion; increasing the flow of international students Contribute to a watched by Vice- into the Tasmanian community and doubling their Vibrant Northern Chancellor Professor Tasmania forum, contribution to the economy to $400 million within five Peter Rathjen; in from left, Rye years; aligning higher education with current and future Launceston, the honour Dunsmuir, Dr Matt workforce needs; and bringing capital investment worth went to the Provost, Delbridge, Richard Professor Mike Calford, more than $400 million into regional centres. Mulvaney and and alumna Elizabeth “The quality of the University’s relationship with the Professor Stephen

Daly OAM; and at PETER MATHEW Loo. State of Tasmania itself is distinctive, as we are the only Cradle Coast, it was university on the island,” Professor Rathjen said. “It University Council means the University can support its State in ways other member Leanne Topfer, with Professor Janelle Australian universities may not be able to do.” Allison and fellow Continued on page 36 Council member Susan Chen looking on. CASEY SMITH CASEY SMITH

More than 23,000 people visited the University during On the same evening, at Hobart City Hall, just a few Welcome Home Week, many coming from far afield blocks from the dinner at the Hobart Convention Centre,

ISSUE 47 for the festivities, to reconnect with former classmates bold plans designed to fundamentally shift the State HEATH HOLDEN and lecturers, and to re-embrace the institution that of Tasmania on to a stronger footing were outlined in turned them into citizens of the world. a historic partnership between the University and the Welcome Home Week overlapped with two highlights Government. of the annual University calendar, Open Day and “Our University was born of the determination of Research Week, ensuring a frenzy of sustained activity visionaries who prevailed in the face of years of fierce on all campuses. debate,” Professor Peter Rathjen said at the State Law Reunion The very first event of Welcome Home Week was Reception, where the signing took place. fittingly an alumni reception, at the Rural Clinical School “It is especially fitting today that we face our future A cold, wet day was offset by the Governors Sir Guy Green AC Tate AO and his brother Richard Holding court … in Burnie on the evening of Friday, August 28. with equal vision and determination, but united around warmth of a vibrant event when KBE CVO and William Cox AC Tate; and Adjunct Professor Peter Left, former Federal Court judge Peter That cocktail party was a taster for the major medical the prospect of a better future for Tasmania.” the Law Faculty hosted an alumni RFD ED QC; former Chancellor Heerey AM QC were among the Heerey AM QC, event of the week, the celebration of 50 years of medicine The agreement was co-signed by the Honourable Will reunion BBQ. The Governor, the Dr Damian Bugg AM QC; Attorney- 80-plus attendees. centre, with Val at the University, in the form of a Golden Symposium and Hodgman, the ninth State premier to be produced by Honourable Professor Kate Warner General Dr Vanessa Goodwin; The BBQ, protected by Professor Smith, left, and John black-tie dinner in Hobart on Saturday. Guest of honour the University of Tasmania. AM; former Chief Justices and Reverend Professor Michael Rick Snell’s market-stall marquee, Upcher, right. at both events was leading neuroscientist Professor Ed The five high-level objectives for the next decade was manned by Tasmania University Much-loved Byrnes, making a brief return to his alma mater from outlined in the agreement include raising the number Law Students Society volunteers – … Right, Dean London where he is Principal of King’s College. of Tasmanians in higher education by 10,000; growing “brave souls, as this followed our Professor Margaret Law Ball the night before,” a grateful Otlowksi, centre, Dean Professor Margaret Otlowski with cherished former support staff noted. members Gayle ‘United around the prospect A series of eight speed research McElwee, left, and Margaret Toma, KAREN BROWN KAREN BROWN talks – periodically announced by Dr Peter Lawrence who took on the right. of a better future’ role of Town Crier – punctuated the festivities.

034 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 035 WELCOME HOME

Say cheese … Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture food microbiologist Associate Professor Tom Ross with from left, Faculty of Education PhD candidates Emily Patterson, Bianca Coleman and Stephanie Clayton at the Cheese- making under the Microscope evening at Hill Street Grocer. For the TUU Rugby PETER MATHEW Union Football Club Heritage Game the host team (in red and white) wore a 1933 replica jersey. PETER MATHEW ALASTAIR LEE

Wind in our sails … Continued from page 35 ISSUE 47 Top, an open-class “We see this as an advantage which will underpin keelboat crew what we do over the next decade.” competing in Other highlights of the week include the Vice- ‘The 125th themes – our the Chancellor’s Invitational Series, Chancellor’s State of the University Address (see held on the pp 8-10); a series of public forums by the Menzies Derwent River; Institute for Medical Research and the Faculty of Health, history, our distinguished Domain House, the the topics ranging from ageing in the 21st century to University’s original home, illuminated Tasmanian devil tumour disease research; exhibitions alumni, our community’ for the week. and displays including Medicine Then and Now – An Historical Lab and Design Month at the Makers Workshop; and a revival of north-south rowing rivalry in the form of the Vice-Chancellor’s Challenge Cup on the University began amalgamation talks with the Tasmanian of putting into practice the Act amalgamating the Tamar River. State Institute of Technology in Launceston and also former University and the Tasmanian State Institute of Of course, no birthday party is complete without celebrated its centenary. Technology,” Professor Lazenby said. “In doing so helped the cutting of a cake. A 125th birthday party requires a However his personal connection to the current Vice- to unify a historically divided state.” special cake, and a special cake-cutter. Chancellor predates that. “I first met Peter more than In Launceston, the cake-cutting was undertaken by For the Sandy Bay ceremony, that person was an 50 years ago, half a world away,” he told the gathering. distinguished alumna Elizabeth Daly, who was awarded eminent former Vice-Chancellor. “Peter was a baby then; his father Tony was doing a PhD a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2008 for services “The themes that we are trying to embody in our with my boss at Cambridge.” to education in Tasmania, and in Burnie by University 125th celebrations – our history, our distinguished Emeritus Professor Lazenby was one of four surviving Council member Leanne Topfer. alumni, our community – come together in the form Vice-Chancellors who came together to tour Domain of Alec Lazenby,” Professor Rathjen said by way of House (apart from Professor Rathjen, the other two introduction. were Professors Don McNicol and Daryl Le Grew). Emeritus Professor Alec Lazenby AO was Vice- “I should make special mention of Professor Chancellor from 1982-1991, during which time the Alan Gilbert, who in the early 1990s had the task

036 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 037 WELCOME HOME ‘Riawunna’s ongoing success is reflected in enrolment’

Riawunna’s anniversary within an anniversary

Riawunna joined in the 125th The centre has introduced celebrations, hosting a very special a number of bursaries and  one of its own. This year marks scholarships and welcomed two Is there a doctor Medicine’s golden anniversary the 30th anniversary of formal Elder positions on each of the in the house? … University engagement with University’s campuses to provide Clockwise from Fifty years of medicine at the left, Sue Kingston, “The school was established to Tasmanian Aboriginal needs and cultural support and advice to Dr Andrew Stone, University of Tasmania was meet workforce shortages across aspirations, with the Hobart and Aboriginal staff and students. Louise Stone, celebrated with a symposium medicine,” he said in his after-dinner Launceston campuses holding Furthermore, former Director Clair Dr Graeme Jones, and a gala dinner. speech. commemorative lunches. Andersen has been appointed an Kate Atkinson, The latter attracted a turnout “This has been achieved with a In Hobart, Pro-Vice Chancellor Aboriginal Higher Education Adviser. Dr Tim Flanagan, Aurora Clarke, and of 260 alumni and current staff, large number of superb Tasmanian- Aboriginal Research and Leadership Professor Walter, who was a Dr Paul Thomson; with the guest speaker being trained graduates in every discipline. Professor Maggie Walter was joined lecturer in the Aboriginal Studies Dr Terry Donald neuroscientist Professor Ed Byrne, “Tasmania had long been by former and current staff and Program at the Centre before from South a former Vice-Chancellor of Monash dependent on the mainland and students including guest speaker moving to Sociology, become the Australia, left, and University, now Principal of King’s overseas for its supply of medical June Sculthorpe from the Tasmanian first Pro-Vice Chancellor Aboriginal Dr Ross Kingston; guest of honour College London. doctors. It has now long repaid home in the award-winning Medical Aboriginal Centre. Ms Sculthorpe first Aboriginal higher education Music on the menu Research and Leadership at the Professor Ed In both his after-dinner speech that debt, educating a stream Science Precinct is a far cry from its was central to Riawunna’s formation position at the University. Since … Alumna Maddie University in 2014. Andersen-Ward, aka Byrne and his wife and his earlier keynote address at of high-quality physicians who original facilities. when she was appointed as an its formation, Riawunna’s ongoing Photography – Peter Mathew singer-songwriter Melissa; Drs Lynne the symposium Professor Byrne practise elsewhere in Australia and In 1966, when the School Aboriginal Tutor Counsellor in success is reflected in increasing Brothers, Sally Madelena, performs Attrill, Don Rose emphasised how much the medical internationally.” opened, staff and students 1985. Her appointment was the Aboriginal enrolment numbers. at the Hobart lunch. and Anne Wilson. school had achieved for Tasmania. The School of Medicine’s current were forced to make do in small weatherboard huts used by the RAAF during World War II. Leading by ISSUE 47 Fortunately, the huts were soon example … From replaced by a new Medical Building left, Professor above Churchill Avenue. Maggie Walter, The School of Medicine was a special guest June development foreshadowed in the Sculthorpe from the Tasmanian 1957 Murray Report on Australian Aboriginal Centre Universities. The first three staff and alumnus Greg appointments – including Arthur Lehman, foundation Cobbold (Physiology), after whom Head of the the annual lecture is named – were Riawunna Centre, now a Research made in 1964 and 1965. Of the Associate with the original intake of 24 students, 18 National Centre for went on to graduate in 1970. Indigenous Studies Photography – Karen Brown at the Sandy Bay campus event. ‘Tasmania has educated a stream of high-quality physicians’

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Christ College College reunions reunion… Clockwise from far left, Three college reunions on three Jonathan Dakin, consecutive nights – there was Don McQuestin, barely a pause in the reminiscing, Pam Nossiter, Hilary Reader, Dean the storytelling, the laughter. As Cooper, Len Cuff, a Christ College guest attested, it Craig Hobbs and was “a real touchstone event in our William Friend; lives”. standing, Gareth Leading off was the Christ College Wells, Danielle Wells and Dr Marc reunion, which saw 50 alumni from Duldig, seated, the 1960s onwards come together Josh Duggan, with members of the current student Sam Johnson and cohort. Liz Richardson; Jacqueline Firth Guests included the silver-haired, his predecessor Dr Damian Bugg and Paul Fenton; silver voice of ABC radio past Keith AM QC, both alumni from the ’60s. Richard James, MacKriell and wife Geraldine; The Jane Franklin reunion attracted Karen James and Senior Fellow Dr Marc Duldig and a 71 alumni spanning 52 years, Will Hohman; 1950s resident, Paul Fenton, whose including a table of 10 who had not Paddy Barbour. residency predates the current all been together since 1977. Alice college site. There was a real sense Boothman, her sister Shulamith of reverence when guests visited Jacobs and Janet Kelly represented The New Buttery, which houses the earliest class (1963) while class photos dating back to 1926 other notable guests included Jane and honour boards. Council Chair Professor Michael Next up was John Fisher College, Stoddart, the Director of the Centre with 45 guests representing classes for Mental Health in the Melbourne from 1963 until the present day. School of Population and Global Current Student Club President Health, Professor Jane Pirkus, and ‘ … a real touchstone Abbey Studley acted as host as the astrologist and writer Jessica Adams. College welcomed Chancellor the Photography –Karen Brown Honourable Michael Field AC and event in our lives’

Jane Franklin John Fisher reunion: ISSUE 47 reunion … Clockwise from Clockwise from top, far left, Dr Peter Mark Ferguson and Binks, Jan and Valerie Tinmouth; and Chancellor Anna Talbot at the the Honourable piano; Dan Aitken, Michael Field AC, Luke Edmunds and Tom Burke; Justin Alex Johnston; Ong, Abbey Studley Margot Smith, and Ryan Ling; Christina Anderson, John Carswell, Heather Richardson, Dr Andrew Penny Nicholls, McMahon, Gerry Penny Dilger, McGushin, Barney Belinda Webster, Phillips and Adjunct Helen Richardson Associate Professor and Valerie Peter Lane; Jo Lee, Tinmouth. Dr Louise Owen, Susan Winter and Helene O’Byrne.

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Water wonders … clockwise, the Northern Varsity Rowing Club ‘Be international but don’t men’s eight in action; the TU Boat Club men’s eight; the two forget we are Tasmanian’ triumphant crews and the Northern Varsity women’s Gospel greats … eight celebrate. The SGC performs at St David’s Cathedral. The soloists pictured, clockwise, are Katy Raucher and Amelia Johnson. CASEY SMITH

Vice-Chancellor’s Challenge events claimed by the heavier southern crew, which led from start to It was North vs South as the Held over 5km on the Tamar finish, in a time of 18 minutes Northern Varsity Rowing Club took and North Esk rivers, the men and four seconds, their northern rivals on the Tasmanian University Boat women’s eights competed for the finishing a minute behind them. ISSUE 47 Club – up for grabs were ultimate Vice-Chancellor’s Cup and Vice- However the Vice-Chancellor’s bragging rights for the first time in Chancellor’s Plate respectively. Plate was to stay in the north. Finale concert a decade. The Vice-Chancellor’s Cup was The TU women started well but Northern Varsity pegged them back Welcome Home Week ended on to cross the line first, in a time of 21 a high note with a concert by the minutes. Southern Gospel Choir in St David’s A crowd of more than 300 Cathedral, Hobart. attended the event. Racing began Unique in Australia, the SGC on the River Tamar next to the toured the US late last year, playing Australian Maritime College, with to audiences of up to 60,000 in the finishing line at St Patrick’s Dallas, Texas; Tuskegee, Alabama; College Rowing Sheds at Seaport. and Los Angeles. Photography – Bruce Moyle/ The SGC, founded by Joffre Street Productions Conservatorium of Music Director Associate Professor Andrew Legg in 2000, has grown from 40 singers by connection, by listening… it’s a in other words, be international but and musicians to about 140. All whole process where they learn don’t forget we are Tasmanian. are enrolled in ensemble units at how to sing this music in what “There’s a beauty in the marriage ‘Up for grabs – bragging rights the Conservatorium, as part of the has become an African-American of those two things and that’s University’s commitment to applied Tasmanian authentic style. what the gospel choir sits right in research. “There is something distinctive the heart of, as I believe does the for the first time in a decade’ “They’re studying gospel music about being Tasmanian in the most University as a whole.” as they’re singing it,” Associate positive sense and when that’s Photography – Peter Mathew Professor Legg says. brought to the fore we can begin “It’s not just by doing, it’s by story, to make a real international impact;

042 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 043 CELEBRATION OF CULTURE

WRITER Peter Cochrane

A CELEBRATION OF ISSUE 47 CULTURES Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen likes to portray the University of Tasmania as a bridge between the island of Tasmania and the world, allowing Tasmanians to engage with the world and the world to engage with Tasmania. With more than 100,000 alumni in 104 countries, the University certainly does not lack global ambassadors, and exchange agreements with 124 international partners mean we also do not lack the capacity for significant inward and outward student exchanges. Cultural exchange ... Members of a Native American delegation visit Bruny Island in late July, the first initiative in an indigenous cultural and education exchange program. PETER MATHEW

044 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 045 CELEBRATION OF CULTURE ‘International students enrich the cultural, social and economic wellbeing of the State’

More than 3600 international students each year which toured the Institute for Marine and Antarctic study in Tasmania at this University. They enrich Studies’ new waterfront building. Lord Mayor Sue the cultural, social and economic wellbeing of the Hickey, resplendent in a traditional silk jacket, then State, either staying to build their future here – hosted a dinner on the Sandy Bay campus. contributing to the State’s long-term population “The University has committed to strengthen growth – or return home, taking a taste of Tassie its outlook in the region through other important back to their communities. initiatives such as the creation of the Asia Institute In the latest Academic Ranking of World Tasmania,” University Provost and Deputy Vice- Universities compiled by the Centre for World-Class Chancellor (International) Professor Mike Calford Universities at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the said. University of Tasmania ranked 305 among the top The Asia Institute, established last year in 1200 universities, up three places, continuing a partnership with the State Government and headed recent trend of steady rises. It not only produces by Professor James Chin, has organised a series of global citizens but is a global citizen in its own right. forums and workshops devoted to such topics as International partnerships allow us to facilitate Japanese and Chinese business etiquette, customs research of global significance and teach in Shanghai and culture, gender equality and economic growth and Hangzhou. In early July, more than 400 in Asia. students graduated in two ceremonies – at It has also awarded grants to schools for Asia- Zhejiang University of Technology and Shanghai related projects; inaugurated a student awards Ocean University – in the 10th year of this scheme and funded the school component of the

ISSUE 47 partnership. In November, during the visit to Dark Mofo festival Ogoh-Ogoh project. KAREN BROWN Tasmania by the Chinese President, Xi Jinping, “Through such initiatives, we foster a heightened a co-operating agreement was signed between understanding of Asia, our place within the region An enduring partnership the University and Yunnan Normal University and relationship with it,” Professor Calford said. ... Graduates and to establish a China-Australia cross-cultural One new student exchange program aims to cultural and education exchange program forward in “building international networks Sun’s warmth … staff pose with the research centre. become a bridge between indigenous worlds. established late last year. NAU is based in the to address the global under-representation of It was the happiest Vice-Chancellor and More Chinese VIPs arrived in May this year, with In late July, the University welcomed a Native high-altitude town of Flagstaff, where about 12 per indigenous students in post-graduate education”, of times when a Chancellor at the delegation from Hangzhou ceremony a delegation from Shanghai Ocean University, led American delegation from Northern Arizona cent of the population are Native American. Pro Vice-Chancellor (Aboriginal Research and Shanghai Ocean in July. by the Council Chairman, Professor Sun Yegang, University (NAU), the first initiative in an indigenous A highlight for the visitors was catching a ferry to Leadership) Professor Maggie Walter explained. University, led by the Bruny Island where they were hosted by Aboriginal Alumna Professor Walter took up this newly Council Chairman, elder Rodney Dillon at the iconic sheep station created position in September last year. Professor Sun Murrayfield, operated by the island’s weetapoona She said at the time: “My new position is an Yegang, pictured right, sat down to a Aboriginal Corporation. Students visited sites indicator that the University has recognised that as Lord Mayoral dinner of Aboriginal cultural significance on the farm, Tasmania’s University, our deep history and cultural on the Sandy Bay including a rock-tool quarry, before enjoying a lunch traditions and knowledge are central to that mission. campus. of abalone cooked over an open fire. I think the University has taken a huge but very During the week-long stay, the visitors, who necessary step.” were assigned “mates” and attended classes as Or to put it another way: “It is a whole new way well as cultural on-country excursions, also visited of doing Aboriginal business” at the University of tebrekunna country in the State’s far north-east, Tasmania. escorted by elder Aunty Patsy Cameron. The University has provided a support service In January next year, five high-achieving for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students Aboriginal students and two University of Tasmania for many years via the Riawunna Centre, which will Aboriginal staff will make the return visit to NAU. continue to play this crucial role. The new exchange program is a major step Continued on page 48

046 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 047 CELEBRATION OF CULTURE

Joyous occasion … Indigenous Left, Nor Hazliza exchange … from Malaysia, Aboriginal elder who graduated in Rodney Dillon hosts Launceston during a Native American the August round, delegation at the with her daughter Bruny island sheep Sofia. station Murrayfield. In January next year five high-achieving Aboriginal students and two University Aboriginal staff will visit Northern Arizona University. CHRIS CRERAR PETER MATHEW

Continued from page 47 “By creating the role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Aboriginal Research and Leadership), the University has demonstrated that it is serious about Aboriginal engagement,” Professor Water said. “A Pro Vice-Chancellor role is an important one at any university and I never anticipated that I would appointment at this level of seniority. It allows me ever find myself in such a role. to work with the decision-makers inside and outside Indigenous hands across sea “The University of Tasmania is one of only seven the University and play a part in enacting real or so universities in Australia to have an Aboriginal change quite quickly.” ISSUE 47 Further exchange programs are proposed by the University of Tasmania with the following indigenous cultures:

Saami: Traditionally known in English corporations. Their subsistence rights Honorary degree … the as Lapps or Laplanders, they are the are not protected but they do have Governor of Yogyakarta northern-most indigenous people the right to harvest whales and other Special Region, His of Europe. Saami ancestral lands span marine mammals. Majesty Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono an area in the Nordic countries which X, was recognised is about the size of Norway. Their Native Hawaiians: Tracing their for his outstanding best-known means of livelihood is ancestry back to the original contribution to semi-nomadic reindeer herding. Polynesian settlers of Hawaii, who democracy, and to social and economic may have arrived in the 3rd century development in First Nations: The various Aboriginal from the Marquesas Islands, two- Indonesia, with an peoples in Canada who are neither thirds of Native Hawaiians live in honorary degree Inuit nor Métis. There are more that state, with the remaining

conferral by the THINKSTOCK

PETER MATHEW than 630 recognised First Nations one-third in California, Nevada and Chancellor the Honourable Michael governments or bands spread across Washington. Field AC at Hobart Town Canada, roughly half of which are in Hall in late September. the provinces of Ontario and British Māori: The Māori originated with First choice … An Columbia. settlers from eastern Polynesia, exchange program who arrived in New Zealand in with Canada’s First Nations is among Alaskan Natives: Often defined by several waves of canoe voyages ‘A major step forward in future proposals. their language groups, the indigenous some time between 1250 and people of Alaska are enrolled in 1300. Horticulture flourished using building international networks’ federally recognised tribal entities, plants they introduced, and later a who in turn belong to 13 regional prominent warrior culture emerged. 048 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 049 CELEBRATION OF CULTURE ‘WALK TALL, WALK PROUD’

Aunty Phyllis Pitchford looks back with great fondness and pride at her time at the Riawunna Centre but is relishing the chance to spend more time with her family. Widely regarded as a passionate advocate for Tasmanian Aboriginal people, their rights, culture and traditions, Aunty Phyllis has served her community over the past 35 years. She first came to the University of Tasmania as a student in 1994 and has been involved with the Riawunna Centre at Newnham ever since. “My youngest son, Chris, said to me, ‘Mum I’m really happy, because to me the community has had a big enough bite of you and I hope they’ve left something for us’,” Aunty Phyllis said. “I’m retiring but I’m still going to be writing. I’ve got poetry ready for a couple of books and I’m also going to do a couple of children’s poetry books.” ISSUE 47 As well as a talent with the written word, Aunty Phyllis has a gift for listening and helping others. Her welcoming embrace, compassion and genuine interest in the lives and welfare of others has proved an asset over the past four years in her role as Senior Elder in Residence. “Students would come to me for advice or for a talk,” she said. Aunty Phyllis looks forward to seeing Riawunna continue to grow and open out into the wider community in the future. She also has a message for the Tasmanian Aboriginal community. “I say to them be proud SCOTT GELSTON of who you are, not what Passionate advocate … you are. Walk tall, walk “I say to them be proud proud,” she said. of who you are, not – Nicole Mayne what you are”.

050 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 051 CELEBRATION OF CULTURE

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Angola Argentina Austria Bangladesh Belgium Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Cambodia Cameroon Canada Chile Colombia Cook Islands Croatia The University of Tasmania brings the world Czech Republic Democratic Republic Of The Congo to this island and we bring this island to the Denmark OUR Dominica world. We have more than 100,000 alumni in Ecuador Egypt GLOBAL 104 countries. As a product of a world-class Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji university our graduates have the opportunity Finland to be the very best in their field at home or to France COMMUNITY French Polynesia apply themselves in any setting in any part of the Germany Ghana world. This map – compiled from Advancement Greece Guatemala Office data on the 65,868 contactable alumni Hong Kong Hungary – shows just how far-flung the members of our India Indonesia international community are. In addition there Iran are 57,032 alumni resident in Australia. Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Kenya Korea (Rep.) Korea, Democratic Republic Of Kuwait Lao (People’s Dem. Rep.) Libya Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritius Mexico Mongolia Montenegro Mozambique Myanmar Nepal ISSUE 47 Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nigeria Norway Oman Pakistan Papua New Guinea People’s Republic Of China Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Republic Of Kiribati Republic Of Malta Republic Of Namibia Republic Of Seychelles Romania Samoa Saudi Arabia Singapore Slovak Republic Slovenia Solomon Islands South Africa Spain Sri Lanka State Of Qatar Sweden Switzerland Taiwan Tanzania Thailand Tonga Trinidad Turkey Tuvalu United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom SAM SHELLEY United States Of America Vanuatu Vietnam Zambia Zimbabwe

052 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 053 INTERNATIONAL RESEARCHERS

WORLD AT SCOTT GELSTON thought leaders guiding my investigations,” he says. THEIR FEET “The nurturing and supportive atmosphere of the institute In carefully selective thematic areas, such as medical research and education, has helped me achieve global Antarctic and Southern Ocean studies and agriculture and forestry the recognition for my work.” University of Tasmania ranks among the best in the world, our reputation for – Miranda Harman excellence attracting PhD candidates from throughout Asia and further afield.

ENGINEERING FOOD SAFETY naturally contain in their flesh Dr Zhi Leong

Novalia Rachmawati an amino acid called histidine,” PETER MATHEW Rachmawati says. Dr Zhi Leong moved from Malaysia Fish is very much a staple “Histidine is harmless, but to Tasmania in 2007 to undertake research diet for Tasmanian in some temperatures certain a Bachelor of Engineering (Ocean Institute of Agriculture PhD bacteria can convert it into Engineering) at the Australian candidates Novalia Rachmawati histamine, which when eaten during winter is highly relevant to Maritime College. and her husband Radestya causes an allergic-like reaction in MARINE BIOLOGY anticipating likely influences from He went on to complete his Triwibowo. people.” Molly Jia environmental changes,” she says. PhD in maritime engineering Rachmawati hopes to develop Rachmawati was attracted – Craig Macaulay in August 2015, using physical a simple and inexpensive to the University of Tasmania The first in a series of life- experiments and computational ISSUE 47 strategy to prevent histamine fish through the food safety risk changing journeys for krill expert MEDICAL RESEARCH fluid dynamics modelling to predict poisoning illnesses caused by a assessment work of researchers Molly Jia came at the age of 12, Lei Si how submarines and autonomous popular fish dish consumed in such as Professor Tom when her parents travelled with underwater vehicles behave when Indonesia. McMeekin, Associate Professor her from her home city of Huhhot The cost of future healthcare they are moving in water. Salted-boiled fish, often Tom Ross, Professor Mark in Inner Mongolia to the north- is a constant concern for “The aim is to quantify

known as pindang, is a popular Tamplin and Associate Professor east China coast. governments and the ability to PETER MATHEW the vehicle’s hydrodynamic traditional dish. And while the John Bowman. Triwibowo is “I remember sitting there and make long-term calculations and characteristics through water as we salting and boiling of the fish investigating food-borne viruses being fascinated by the sea for evaluate cost-effectiveness is can use that information to improve kills food poisoning bacteria, in shellfish. hours and that must have had becoming increasingly important. upon its performance – it gives us any bacteria present on the raw “I am so grateful that my an impact because I finished Lei Si has received international an idea how fast it can travel and fish can leave behind a toxin not husband and I have this up studying marine biology at recognition for his work in this World class … Award for Outstanding Self- how well it can turn,” Dr Leong removed by cooking that causes opportunity to study here at the university,” she says. field, specifically on the future Clockwise from Financed Students Abroad. He says. opposite page illness in people who consume same time as his (and my whole The second experience was economic impact of osteoporosis has also received a grant from “Turning a submarine is not bottom left, the fish. family) support is absolutely pursuing marine biology during in China. Indonesian PhD the National Natural Science as easy as turning a car; when a KATHY GRUBE “Tuna and similar red-fleshed important in my journey,” her undergraduate research to In 2014, Si was awarded candidate Novalia Foundation of China – the submarine starts to turn it starts fish like mackerel are often Rachmawati says. eventually take up her PhD at the the International Osteoporosis Rachmawati; equivalent of the NHMRC in drifting. used in this dish and these fish – Kathy Grube University of Tasmania’s Institute Foundation Young Investigator Mongolian krill Australia. “We need to know how it expert Molly Jia; for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Award. His work was chosen Malaysian marine Using a cost-effectiveness behaves so we can develop in conjunction with the ACE CRC. from submissions by researchers engineer Dr Zhi model developed and validated at measures to have full control of the The third journey was joining and clinicians from more than 38 Leong and Chinese Menzies, Si’s study is the first to vehicle at all times to avoid hitting a the 2012 SIPEX-2 voyage into countries. Menzies PhD forecast the incidence and costs seabed or another vehicle.” ‘Menzies is a top-notch candidate Lei Si. the Southern Ocean to collect In 2015, he was one of three of osteoporotic fractures in China Dr Leong will continue this work winter samples. University of Tasmania students, in the near future. as a postdoctoral research fellow research centre’ “Understanding krill and and only 500 worldwide, to “Menzies is a top-notch at AMC. zooplankton feeding ecology receive the Chinese Government research centre with international – Nicole Mayne

054 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 055 FOUNDATION AWARD DINNER – BURNIE

REFUGEE TO RECIPIENT – BURNIE

Honouring an Iranian refugee-turned-plastic surgeon was among the highlights as Burnie hosted the first of three University of Tasmania Foundation gala dinners this year

THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2015

Bathed in red and gold light, the Environment, Parks and the Burnie Arts and Function Heritage, Burnie-born alumni Centre hosted the first of the Matthew Groom. three University gala dinners The official welcome was scheduled for the Anniversary given by University Chancellor Year. the Honourable Michael Field Staged partly to celebrate AC, one of Latrobe’s favourite the 2015 student scholarship sons. recipients – a procession A highlight of the night preceded dinner – and to was the presentation of a acknowledge donors and Foundation Graduate Award supporters from the North- to Dr Mansoor Mirkazemi, West community, the black-tie who came to Tasmania as a event guest list included 17-year-old Iranian refugee Education and Training with little English and is now Minister Jeremy Rockliff, who a leading plastic surgeon, grew up on the family farm practising in Melbourne, and at Sassafras, and the Minister in Indonesia as a volunteer. for State Growth, Energy,

ISSUE 47

IMAGES BY RICK EAVES

High achiever … Foundation Graduate Award winner Dr Mansoor Mirkazemi with wife Shanna, son Neema and daughter Roya.

056 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 057 FOUNDATION AWARD DINNER – LAUNCESTON

LEADING BY EXAMPLE – LAUNCESTON

Tasmania’s Coordinator-General John Perry was honoured for his inspiring work as Launceston hosted the second of three University of Tasmania Foundation gala dinners this year

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2015

A student leader who accepted on his behalf by developed a program to Interim Regulation Reduction inspire future student Coordinator Stuart Clues). leaders is the recipient of a “Having given me so much, Foundation Graduate Award. it is extraordinary that the John Perry, who was lured University would give this as back to Launceston from New well. It’s a huge honour.” York to take up the position of The Launceston Foundation Tasmania’s first Coordinator- dinner, held in Albert Hall, General in January this also featured a procession of year, conceived what was 54 students and live music to become the Tasmanian by the University of Tasmania Leaders Program. Wind Orchestra under the “The University has been direction of Stephen King and an enormous part of my life, a Conservatorium jazz quartet both as a student for five (music director Glen Hodges). years and then returning as A brief window into the a tutor, and as an Alumni insect world was opened Committee member for 10 by student speaker Thomas years when I was overseas,” he Killalea, who was awarded ISSUE 47 said in a previously recorded the Bruce Wall Honours video speech (the award was Scholarship for 2015.

IMAGES BY SCOTT GELSTON All smiles … From left, Kate Conway, scholarship holder Mae Farrell, Lauren Bird and scholarship holders Emma Hall and Isobel Thompson.

058 — Alumni 125th Anniversary Edition — 059 The University of Tasmania would like to thank all of its alumni, supporters and friends who have helped make the 125th Anniversary celebrations such a grand and memorable occasion.