SYDNEY ALUMNI Magazine

11 14 16 34 NEWS: Calling Dubai-based alumni FEATURE: Hazards for youth PROFILE: Jack Manning Bancroft SPORT: Rowing to Beijing

features Spring 2007

4 EDITORIAL Goodbye Dominic, hello Diana

5 FOR THE RECORD What the Chancellor said

9 CELEBRATION AND INNOVATION Cutting edge science, technology, culture and entertainment combine for GerMANY Innovations

18 COVER STORY Editor Diana Simmonds Mural maker Pierre Mol explains the how and why The University of Sydney, Publications Office of his historic artwork Room K6.06, Quadrangle A14, NSW 2006 Telephone +61 2 9036 6372 Fax +61 2 9351 6868 36 TREASURE Email [email protected] The Macleays inspired artist Robyn Stacey and Sub-editor John Warburton writer Ashley Hay Design tania edwards design Contributors Professor John Bennett, Vice-Chancellor regulars Professor Gavin Brown, HE Professor Marie Bashir AC CVO, Graham Croker, Sarah Duke, Ashley Hay, Marie Jacobs, 2 LETTERS Helen Mackenzie, Fran Molloy, Heidi Mortlock, Maggie Astrology predictably on the nose Renvoize, Ted Sealy, Robyn Stacey, Melissa Sweet. Printed by PMP Limited 8 OPINION Excellence must be pursued, writes Vice-Chancellor Cover photo Pierre Mol with his mural at The Rocks, Sydney. Professor Gavin Brown Photograph by Fran Molloy.

28 DIARY Advertising Please direct all inquiries to the editor. So much to do, so little time Editorial Advisory Committee The Sydney Alumni Magazine is supported by an Editorial 30 GRAPEVINE Advisory Committee. Its members are: Kathy Bail, editor, From the 1940s to the present; who is doing what Australian Financial Review magazine; David Marr (LLB ’71), Sydney Morning Herald; William Fraser, editor ACP Magazines; Martin Hoffman (BEcon ’86), consultant, Andrew Potter, Media Manager, University of Sydney; Helen Trinca, editor, Weekend Australian magazine.

spring 2007 1 letters

Entrails are go I write however to politely but firmly It seems that to medievalist Dr. David criticise the article and front cover of Juste (Heaven sent, hell bent, SAM, Winter, the Winter 2007 edition. I have no real 2007), we have to accept astrology as a objection to people studying the history valid science on the grounds that it was of Astrology (in fact, despite my degree, very influential in medieval society. my first subject at university level was It also seems that more and more the history of Reformation Europe) people in contemporary society are but I most definitely do object to your accepting this criterion of the scientific, contributor’s implications of scientific to judge from the fact that astrological veracity for the subject. predictions appear with increasing Provide us with evidence or be content frequency in the various media. to study the subject as just another form However, what if the magazine finds of superstitious nonsense. And please do a classicist historian of ancient Rome not give prominence to such nonsense in whose brief but brilliantly energetic our much appreciated magazine. career to date has focused on bringing Ian Duncan (BVSc Hons ’78) entrails reading in from the cold? Armidale, NSW Certainly, in terms of giving advice to Roman leaders considering important Back to the future decisions, entrails reading was at least I enjoyed the article by Rick Shine, Carole as influential then as astrology was in Cusack, Robert Aldrich and Peter Write to us the medieval period. Reimann – “Campus 2027” (SAM, Letters to the editor must include Whether one is considering past or Autumn 2007). Interestingly, there was contact details: full name, address present times, we cannot use, as a crite- another article in the same issue, rion of the scientific, wide acceptance “Never too old”, [telling of 91-year-old (not for publication), daytime phone and use of a specific discipline. Rather, alumnus Allan Stewart’s recent Bachelor number and/or email in determining whether a discipline is of Laws degree from the University of address, degree(s) and year(s) scientific, we should be guided by such New England] in which it was said that, of graduation, where applicable. criteria as the one of falsifiability as "Completing his law degree presented a proposed by the late Sir Karl Popper. number of challenges to Dr Stewart, Please address your letters to: Past or present superstitions do not not least because his course material The Editor gain real scientific status just because was mostly delivered over the Internet." SAM – Sydney Alumni Magazine they are popular, or supported by many On top of this I read an article in the C/– Publications A14 famous people, including some scientists. International Herald Tribune, April University of Sydney John Furedy (BA ’62, MA ’63, PhD ’65), 21-22, 2007, “Like father, like son, like NSW 2006 Emeritus Professor of Psychology, fund,” that tells the story of Atsouto, the University of Toronto eldest son of a Mr. Sawakami who runs Letters may also be sent electronically Darling Point, NSW an independent mutual fund in Japan. (with full contact details) Atsouto announced to his father that he to: [email protected] Superstitious nonsense was not going to college … because Since graduation way back in 1977, I there is no point as he had figured out Opinions expressed in the pages of have always appreciated and looked for- that the students were all coasting. the magazine are those of the signed ward to editions of what has become After six years of reading books, contributors or the editor and do not the Sydney Alumni Magazine. Over the going surfing and doing part-time necessarily represent the official years there has been some fascinating work, Atsouto joined his father in the position of the University of Sydney. and informative material written by fund in 2000 to help make it flourish. admirable people associated with the I thought: the phenomenal changes Space permits only a selection of University in all areas of expertise and projected in your article on “Campus letters to be published here. Letters knowledge. This of course helps to 2027” are already taking place, although may be edited by the editor for space “showcase” the University as the magazine perhaps on a small scale. or other reasons. tends to show up in many professional Farzana Naqvi (PhD Econ, ’95) waiting rooms and elsewhere. Vienna, Austria

2 sydney alumni magazine letters

Unsupported assertions I want to compliment you on the quality of the Sydney Alumni Magazine. But I also wish to register my disappointment with your publication at the article re astrology (SAM, Winter 2007). It makes a number of unsupported assertions regarding the efficacy of astrology. It produces not one shred of evidence. Its stance that we cannot understand something until we cease to mistrust it is an attack upon a funda- mental principle of scientific inquiry. illustration: Maggie Renvoize This sort of shallow nonsense should not receive an airing in your otherwise excellent journal. Dr John Hughes (BA ’75, PhD Ed ’00) West Ryde, NSW

A happy (smiling) customer I read with interest your news item on the conferring of an Honorary Fellow- ship on Rachel McGirr, the Baroness Gardner (SAM, Winter 2007). In 1952 as an eleven-year-old, I visited the Dental Hospital near Central Rail- way where a young undergraduate, Miss A reasoned approach McGirr, drilled and filled one of my After looking at your magnificent magazine’s colourful display re the irrationality teeth. It took a number of visits but in of astrology (SAM, Winter 2007), I ask you, why not future articles, essays and revues the end I came away with a lovely gold [sic] regarding tea leaf reading, palmistry, phrenology and necromancy. Not to filling. Fifty five years later, while others mention the magic of crystal ball gazing and tarot cards? around it have fallen into decay, my gold An intellectual, academic attack on reason is essential reading in this age of filling still remains firmly in place. unreason and of destruction of objective education. Alistair McKenzie (BSc Agric ’71) Chris Rath (BA ’69) Roselands NSW Redfern, NSW

spring 2007 3 editorial

Goodbye and hello

After two years as editor of SAM, Dominic O’Grady has resigned Dr Juste and the eventual outcome of his three-year fellowship to concentrate on finishing his PhD. It is my great pleasure in a future issue. and privilege to take over from him. In this Spring 2007 magazine, meanwhile, I think you will be In case you’re now wondering, for longer than I care to admit as moved and inspired as I am (every day) by Her Excellency I have been an editor and journalist and teacher of both crafts. Professor Marie Bashir AC CVO, and in this instance by her Over the past twenty years, I have also been one of Sydney’s speech of acceptance as the seventeenth Chancellor of the more outspoken arts commentators and critics. Past publications University of Sydney. Also inspiring and exciting in a very include Time Out (London), the Sydney Morning Herald, The different way is the subject of the cover feature. Pierre Mol’s Australian, The Bulletin and Sunday Telegraph. I’ve written astonishing mural is now on public and permanent view down about books, football, travel, romance, politics, history, food, at The Rocks – Sydney’s first ‘burb – and is the biggest in theatre, opera, music, poetry and virtually anything else that Australia apparently. Much more important, however, it’s a seemed interesting at the time. I’m also a published author brilliant, evocative work in its own right. (eight books) and in 2006 instigated the dedicated arts Both these features underline the fact that this magazine and website, Stagenoise. its companion website are dedicated to what I would argue From this brief resume you will gather that my interests are is one of the most impressive and interesting of Australia’s catholic and I really look forward to the opportunity offered minority communities: the Sydney University alumni. To by SAM to discover more. further that dedication, in the coming months I hope you will This issue, you will notice, carries a number of letters in engage with me and take it on to the next stage of broadening response to the Winter 2007 cover story. It would not have its scope, relevance and reach. been necessary to consult Marsilio Ficino to predict that the New postings, new jobs, new awards, new discoveries, new profile feature on Dr David Juste would provoke grumpy babies and new thoughts and stories are very welcome – and responses. Juste, of course, is the medievalist whose interest in I would urge you to consider sharing your news and views astrology is about how it related to and with the 150,000+ members of the alumni through the pages profoundly influ- of SAM. enced medieval g k and early modern Very best wishes, c n society. I trust we’ll hear more from Diana Simmonds t i a w d y b o s m f illustration: Maggie Renvoize

4 sydney alumni magazine record

Vigilant in defence

Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir means to higher learning, open to all AC CVO, Governor of NSW, the most classes and to all denominations and admired woman in Australian public under the auspices of the state’. life, became the University of Sydney’s “Across 157 years of achievement, seventeenth Chancellor in July. She had this philosophy - this model of equity this to say: and idealism - has served our nation well. “Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Chancellor, “As a graduate in Medicine, I am members of the Senate of the University grateful also for the considerable legacy of Sydney, academic colleagues, distin- of excellence which has followed the guished guests, friends and family. establishment of that faculty from 1856 “Thank you Vice-Chancellor and and which has continued to this day. Deputy Chancellor for the warmth and Nevertheless, despite the rich and generosity of your words of welcome. abundant gifts of the past, there are Indeed I thank each one of you in this contemporary - and future - serious Great Hall who has honoured me by challenges which must now be foremost your presence here tonight. in my mind. “It is indeed a most singular privilege “I have no illusions regarding their to be called upon to serve this complexity, nor can I deny the con- renowned institution which has been fronting and conflicting elements which integral to my very being since child- can arise in the highly competitive hood, so richly contributory to my environment which faces Australian intellectual and emotional development universities today. across a lifetime. “But you have my assurance that I “As I noted at the ceremony which shall do my utmost to contribute to conferred upon me in 2002 an Honorary the continuing advancement of this Doctorate of Medicine, ‘There is no University, and to its ever increasing occasion when one enters this Great value to the wider community and to Hall as a former student or academic, the nation. that an awesome sense of history is not “I wish to be vigilant in defending, as evoked. But also an overwhelming far as possible, the genuine autonomy Seally photo: Ted sense of gratitude for the culture of of the University of Sydney, to ensure learning and reflection, for the pathway the continuation of an environment in Marie Bashir: vision and courage to intellectual riches – and the inspiration which independent, innovative and towards enlightenment abounding, courageous debate and endeavour staff – indeed of the whole University which it symbolises. will flourish. community. “One recalls the vision and courage “Indeed, an academic colleague has “I look forward to contributing my of our early founders, including alerted me to a highly charged comment enthusiastic support to the Vice-Chancellor William Charles Wentworth, whose of the current Chancellor of Oxford and his team in attracting and nurturing statue greets us as we enter this Hall. University (a former Minister for our international students, who will go “Wentworth, appointed by my great Education) who declared ‘a university is on to serve their respective nations, and predecessor, the fifth Governor of New not a branch office of a Ministry of indeed the world, with distinction and South Wales Lachlan Macquarie, to the Education. Universities are extremely humanity, and forever remain proud of position of Acting Provost Marshal in important parts of a plural society. their connection with their Australian the colony at the age of twenty-one, set Their independence is crucial’. alma mater. the direction which the future University “I want to remain empathic to the “It will be important also to build on would take. wellbeing of our students from wherever the positive relationship which this “And as our University history they hale, and to share the aspirations senior University has always valued with records, it would espouse ‘an unfettered and striving for excellence of the academic the wider community, so that the >

spring 2007 5 community has a sense of connected- sensitive to the value of cultural activities deeply appreciative of his contribution ness with our institution, from the beyond the lecture theatre and even our to this University and indeed, in his corporate and business world to the very eminent research foundations. confidence in me. very young children just beyond this “It has been fortunate not only in its “I am also very much aware of the campus of the Darlington Public outstanding sporting tradition – the important advantages, and the pleasure School and Chippendale, who use first rugby club in Australia, after all – which I shall have, in working with our our grounds. but in its extraordinarily rich tradition outstanding Vice-Chancellor and his “There is much cause for pride in the within its museums, and in drama academic team, with the Registrar, the progress which our University has and music. highly committed Senate, and our made in establishing vigorous and “All of these have enriched the lives exceptional academic community. prestigious programs which reach out of graduates, undergraduates and “And finally, may I thank my family – to our indigenous students. alumni. They will have my continuing those who directed me in my formative “It is my wish – and belief – that gratitude and support. years – and those today, for their these will go from strength to strength. “I am proud to follow in the foot- endless patience and generosity, and “We are blessed indeed that this steps of my esteemed predecessor the the loyal friends who inspire me in all University since its inception has been Honourable Kim Santow, and I am my endeavours.” ■

Caloo calay, O frabjous day!

Eagle-eyed readers of the Winter issue of SAM may recall reading something about the forthcoming Medieval Christmas Banquet and wondering what it might be about. The answer is: one of the most convivial ways of raising funds for good causes ever devised. The Sydney Chancellor’s Committee was started by Sir Hermann Black in 1977 specifically to come up with painless methods of fund-raising within the University community, for its various projects (funding bursaries for Koori students via the Koori Centre, for instance; restoration of artworks,

stonework and other important arte- photo: Getty Images facts owned by the University). Thirty years on, today’s committee Medieval tucker: pies as well as rostyd samon and dere members continue to dream up events for alumni and guests to gather, and in weaponry, guests, known as (take a has been carried out into the kinds of December, it’s the Medieval Christmas deep breath) Our Noble Cousins and delicacies from 500 years ago that Banquet. Comrades in Arms from the Fields of might tickle the fancy of modern The celebrations begin in the Quad- Body, Mind and Soul, will process behind Australians. For instance, Samon rostyd rangle with First Remove (aka Entrée) designated Standard Bearers to the Great in wine sause; cameline of lamb, dere and drinks (don’t worry, mead will not Hall. The Chancellor, HE Professor or hye grece rostyd with frumentye – be served) while guests enjoy demonstra- Marie Bashir, AC CVO, Governor of and so on. The wine list is definitely tions by the Sydney University Anachronists NSW, known on this occasion as The contemporary, organisers promise. of medieval sport and entertainment Most Gracious Lady, Noble Guest and During the banquet the Sydney and, courtesy Sydney University Surcus, Honoured Patron, together with the Vice - University Madrigal Choir will entertain other activities common to the snood- Chancellor (aka Our Most Chivalrous with the top hits of the period, while and wimple-wearing times. These include and Noble Lord of the Feast) and their the jugglers and minstrels will continue juggling, fire twirling and wandering gallant and fair spouses, will then be to do their thing as they stroll around minstrels. (MacLaurin Hall is on heralded into the Great Hall to the High the tables. ■ stand-by in case of inclement weather.) Table by those fellows who wear tabards When the knights have whacked the and play impossibly long trumpets. A Registration Form comes with this living daylights out of each other with Although larks’ tongues and roast edition of SAM, so book now for an broadswords and other contemporary swan are not on the menu, some research unforgettable night of Medievalry.

6 sydney alumni magazine spring 2007 7 opinion

New Year’s resolution

The pursuit of excellence is neither selfish nor elitist and the University must face the future without fears, writes Vice-Chancellor Professor Gavin Brown AO

whose forward expenditure is fully that funding policy for higher education committed these must appear as “surplus”. should be designed to allow the emer- Moreover rearrangement of our invest- gence of world class universities. It ments can produce an apparent one-off generated a flurry of letters from “profit” which is not realised in the redistributive Robin Hoods arguing conventional sense of family accounts. for uniformity. However the main feature of our oper- Some commentators, ignoring the ating surplus is that we must set aside University’s contributions to society, funds for necessary capital development. argue that we have received the unfair By a combination of self-help and advantage of more than 150 years of Vice-Chancellor Professor Gavin Brown help from our friends we will achieve the taxpayer contributions and that funds Campus 2010 Project without external should be transferred to newer institutions. his is the season when our grand borrowing. This means that the new IT HEEF has been criticised for potentially old buildings offer spiritual warmth Building, the Law School and the Student advantaging the stronger universities. Tmore than physical comfort and Centre, together with the landscaped Perhaps lean years have made the sector when our Annual Report on the previous redevelopment of Eastern Avenue, will too obsessed with garnering resources. year’s activities is tabled in parliament. be achieved by living within our means. Let me quote our recently retired There is an outstanding list of Of necessity that appears as operating Chancellor, The Hon Justice Kim Santow, achievements by our students, staff and surplus in our accounts, although our writing in the 2006 Annual Report: institution itself but the bare financial need for further capital infrastructure “While encouraging benefaction is crucial, facts also speak eloquently. Income investment remains a serious challenge. we win enduring support by the quality increased to $1.2 billion and we That background is why I was quick of our teaching and research as well as returned an operating surplus of to praise the Government’s introduction by demonstrating to the community $190 million. The response, however, of the Higher Education Endowment that we are outstandingly well managed.” can be as cold as MacLaurin Hall on a Fund (HEEF) which will allow univer- We must be fearless in comparing with June night before we bring in the sities to bid for support for capital the very best of international competitors heaters. Even the Federal Minister, who expenditure. As a capital preserved and that is neither selfish nor élitist. must know better, could not resist the fund, however, with an initial corpus We are very fortunate to be able to temptation of saying that this shows we of $5 billion it is only a small first step welcome Her Excellency Professor are prodigiously well off and generously in the right direction. Marie Bashir as incoming Chancellor. funded by Government. My simple It is interesting that the Vice-Chancellor She has great love for the University reply is that, in 1998, our Commonwealth of the University of Melbourne felt it and a deep knowledge of its essence. Operating Grant accounted for 37.4% necessary recently to defend an operating With her guidance we will continue to of our income and that, in 2006, it had surplus half the size of ours – not because aim for excellence in our academic dropped to 15.8%. Over the same period it was too small but because it was too big! pursuits as a first priority. student fee income has increased from The leading universities in Australia It is indeed by the calibre of our 21.2% to 29.4%. are concerned that they are impoverished research and teaching that we will be There are some accounting technicalities relative to their aspirations, although judged. These core activities will fire our which make “operating surplus” confusing these aspirations are fundamental to ambition while we keep on developing in everyday language. For example, our national future. A recent editorial in the enabling capacity which allows when we are awarded research grants the Sydney Morning Herald suggested real achievement. ■

8 sydney alumni magazine news

Young and old: a great combination

Global themes bring Germany and Australia together for three days of intellectual celebration and innovation A three-day showcase bringing industry, academe and the public together at the University of Sydney will highlight ground-breaking research collaborations between Germany and Australia around the global themes of health and tech- nology, sustainability and community. GerMANY INNOVATIONS is the first event of its kind to be initiated by the University. It launches a major festival – GerMANY Faces Australia 2007 – hosted by the Goethe-Institut and German Consul General. “Germany is honoured as the birth- place of the research university and German design and technology have the reputation for innovation and reliability second to none,” says Vice- Chancellor, Professor Gavin Brown. “Australia is a young country which combines freshness and sophistication in its research and this is underpinned

by practical realism.” photo: Portrait of Goethe, 1828, Neue Pinakothek, Munich The showcase of science and technology advances, health and social developments, “Daring ideas are like chessmen moved forward; they may be beaten, but they may cultural exchange and intellectual start a winning game.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe analysis features presentations by Brain and Mind Institute and Bosch Institute researchers, who are teaming up with competitions for great prizes and a of the Goethe-Institut. “We aim to leading German companies including German Outreach Festival. produce more than a national festival, Zeiss, Siemens, and B Braun, in the Not only will current collaborations and hope for a lasting co-operation search for treatments of cancer, be showcased, but new partnerships are between all institutions involved.” Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, likely to be born out of GerMANY A full timetable of events is available flaviviruses and diabetes. INNOVATIONS. “I look forward to the online at www.usyd.edu.au/gerMANY Professor John Hearn and other new outcomes which will flow from this university and industry leaders will lively exchange of ideas, information GerMANY Innovations will be held on present on such important topics as and innovation,” Professor Brown says. 10–12 September at the Seymour Theatre stem cell research, technology and The parent event, GerMANY Faces Centre, corner of City Rd and Cleveland human health, biotechnology, sustain- Australia, will showcase a cutting-edge St, Chippendale. ■ ability and climate change, transport cultural program, with more than 40 logistics, urban planning, and new media. events focussing on the exchange of The event is a whole-of-University ideas about urbanisation, identity and occasion with input from each faculty. openness at venues in Sydney and other Interspersed throughout the showcase major cities. “This is a rare occasion to will be public lectures, forums, networking explore common ground,” says Klaus “hubs”, workshops, exhibitions, music, Krischok, Festival Director and Director

spring 2007 9 news

Beyond the limits of location

In 1826, Governor Darling decided he accounts, a kind and delightful girl. echoes with later treatment of must do something about the rum What is arresting, to the modern reader, immigrants and the importance of goings on in NSW. According to Gretchen is the discovery that her mother had labour supplies; Make a Light: Aboriginal Poiner, “It was largely an attempt to married Justice Stephen when she was economic contributions to the emerging reduce the brutal and lawless behaviour 27 and he a 35-year-old widower. His nation, by Gaynor Macdonald, should happening out in the bush.” first wife had died in childbirth the be required reading for the Terra Nullius The Governor’s limits were imposed previous year aged 33, leaving seven brigade; while Ian Keese’s Baiami and – beyond which settlers were not living children (two died in infancy). the Bible: Religious encounters in early supposed to settle – but as the colonial Australia is a fascinating southern limit was at Yass, we now account of the early efforts of the know the constraints didn’t work Church. Christine Jennett’s Peo- for long. What the limits have ple and Place: Terms of inclusion provided, however, is a loose in a colony’s history is a searching framework for a magnificent new exploration of how perceptions book, Limits of Location – creating and reality changed over time for a colony, co-edited by Poiner with settlers and indigenous Australians. Sybil Jack. Finally, An Other World: Albert There are a number of things Tissandier at Jenolan Caves, by to say about Limits of Location. Susan Steggall, is illustrated with The first is that it is thoughtfully the traveller’s drawings and, as illustrated with letters, drawings, well as being atmospheric and paintings, photographs, maps and beautifully executed, they show documents from the Mitchell, the European eye for the exotic Dixson and State Libraries and landscape. It is unconsciously the Dixson Galleries Collection. made over into something like The text is the second notable the familiar European landscape. element. The editors have identified Limits of Location is a digital, eleven subject areas and writers to print-on-demand, book and explore them. Jack contributes proves that this method does opening essay, Surveyors and the not necessarily mean low quality. Creation of Location in New South It was printed on a Xerox photo: “Nelly” Stephen from the Mitchell Library Collection Wales. The state’s unique plant life Nelly Stephen from the Mitchell Library Collection Docucolor 5252 and as Susan is Helen Hewson’s topic in Flora Murray-Smith of Sydney in View (a botanic drawing of a University Press says, “After the Waratah makes her point). Not only did Eleanor take on the seven first 300 are sold, we will decide whether Belonging: the meaning of place for children but went on to have nine of to continue to print the parilux version women in the early settlement of NSW is her own. at the higher price, or do an edition on Poiner’s contribution and it’s followed And of course, they all wrote like white paper for the same price $49.95.” by Marilyn Dodkin’s surely ironic A demons. The letters between various The unsubsidised “higher price” is Very Benevolent Society. members of family and friends are only $89.95 for beautiful creamy paper Portrait of a Family: the lost art of among the most vivid accounts of and luscious imagery. It will make a letter writing, by Audrey Tate and colonial life; the eye watering numbers perfect Christmas, birthday or self- Margaret Bettison, is a poignant and of children and the letters are among indulgence gift and an absorbing read. telling account of early NSW. Illustrated the most striking differences between here is one of the letter writers: Nelly, a then and now. daughter of Eleanor Lady Stephen and The similarities between then and Limits of Location: Creating a Colony, Chief Justice Sir Alfred Stephen. now are evidenced in lateral ways: Gretchen Poiner and Sybil Jack, editors; Like many contemporaries, Nelly did Early Indian Workers in the Australian Sydney University Press, $49.95+ not have a long life. She was, by all Colonies, by Marie de Lepervanche, postage: www.sup.usyd.edu.au ■

10 sydney alumni magazine news

Bridging the Gulf

With its fast paced lifestyle, towering skyscrapers and endless sunshine, more and more Australian professionals are calling the Gulf region home, writes Rachel Morris. From the glitz and glamour of Dubai through to the oil and gas rich countries of Qatar and Saudi Arabia, Australian graduates are flocking to the region to further their careers and perhaps have an adventure. At last count the United Arab Emirates alone is currently home to more than 16,000 Australians. And there are also thousands more scattered throughout neighbouring countries. Engineers, doctors, nurses, teachers, academics, journalists and architects are among the professionals calling the Gulf region home, with many graduates from the University of Sydney. Journalist Rachel Morris (BA ’95), now living in Dubai, is trying to establish a Sydney Alumni network in the region – covering the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. “It’s a great opportunity to meet other graduates but also to form networks that can be personally and professionally supportive,” she says. “The plan is to put people in touch with each other in the first instance. Then, when this is estab- lished, we’d move onto other, bigger events like regular dinners,” she says. “Wherever you travel in the world, you can always find a Sydney graduate!” Morris says she was inspired to set up the network after learning that the Queensland University of Technology has an active group in Dubai, as does a string of British and American universities. Those interested in the Gulf Sydney University Alumni Network can contact Rachel Morris via email at photo: Getty Images [email protected]. ■ A long tradition of retail therapy: embroidered slippers in a Dubai souk

spring 2007 11 news

Hat trick for Uni, the fourth in eight years

Sydney University’s 24th Rugby Union to captain and number eight Tim It was the club’s eighth Grand Final title since 1900 was a tremendous team Davidson. Halangahu converted his appearance in eight years and the achievement, writes Diana Simmonds captain’s try into the lead: 14-11. From fourth win. It was also the 24th title The success of the Sydney University that moment the students were on their since 1900, second only to Randwick’s club in the 2007 Shute Shield competition way to another historic victory. 27; then there’s daylight to Easts with was all the sweeter for the way it was won. Man-of-the-match Halangahu went 10 titles. The competition is currently Out-manouevred for much of the first on to score two tries, a penalty goal and called the Tooheys New Shute Shield, half by Eastern Suburbs, who took full three conversions. Another emergent giving the students both the shield and benefit from a 10-3 penalty count, the star for SU was loosehead prop Jerry the Tooheys New Cup, which join the students kept their heads and hung on to Yanayanatawa playing his first senior Sir Roden Cutler Shield – won earlier in their morale and belief in one another. grade game after a season spent mostly the year. The team effort and determination in Third Grade. Alongside experienced Sydney University 34 (Tries: Daniel eventually turned the game in their favour. tighthead Laurie Weeks and second half Halangahu 2, Tim Davidson, Nick Haydon, Approaching half time trailing 11-0 substitute Scott Cameron, the 21-year- Alfred Mafi; Daniel Halangahu three and with a player on a yellow card is not old settled quickly to make a strong goals, pen goal) d Eastern Suburbs 11 an ideal Grand Final scenario, but when contribution. (Junior Puroku try, Anthony Faingaa Easts’ Saia Faingaa was sin-binned for a After a penalty goal late in the second goal, pen goal) at Sydney Football professional foul, Uni was ready for any half from Halangahu, Sydney scored Stadium on Saturday, 29 July. lapse in momentum and concentration. a cracking try from the restart. It Sydney University: Daniel Halangahu, Winger Alfred Mafi came desperately involved centre Jack Farrer, Haydon, Alfred Mafi, Lachlan Mitchell, Tom close to scoring, then five-eighth Dan Kelly,replacement number eight Jone Carter, Peter Playford, Daniel Kelly, Kelly and inside-centre Tom Carter Tawake and replacement winger Nathan Nick Haydon, Tim Davidson, David combined to send SU rookie fullback Trist all combining to get the ball to Mafi Haydon, David Dennis, Dean Mumm, Daniel Halangahu on his way through a for an 80-metre try. The conversion Will Caldwell, Laurie Weeks, Dan Lewinski, gap between two defenders. He touched attempt by Farrer hit the posts on the Jerry Yanuyanutawa. Bench: Scott down in the corner and followed up final siren. Sydney Uni twice played Cameron, Nick Hensley, Al Campbell, with a conversion from a difficult angle. with 14 men during the match, when Jone Tawake, Pauliasi Taumoepeau, Jack Five minutes after the break, halfback second-rower David Dennis and hooker Farrer, Nathan Trist, John Morellato. Nick Haydon sent a penalty tap into Dan Lewinski spent 10 minutes each in Coaches: Damien Hill, Anthony Eddy Easts’ territory, where Kelly moved it on the sin bin. and Trevor Woodman. ■

True grit: Sydney University, 2007 club rugby champions for the third year in a row Don’t miss: Alumni rush at CCE

The University of Sydney has offered high-quality lifelong learning oppor- tunities to the general public since the late 1880s through CCE (Centre for Continuing Education). CCE is renowned for the quality ofits courses and the high calibre of course presenters. Starting in September, alumni have an exciting opportunity for reduced-price learning through the newly launched Alumni Rush scheme at the CCE. The scheme is part of the program of benefits being developed to offer continued and increasing value to the Sydney alumni community. Every two weeks, CCE will make photo: Photolibrary available to University of Sydney alumni a selected range of courses from its Arts, A Jacana decorates the floor of a villa in Roman North Africa History and Culture and Professional Development programs at a 25 per cent Office (02) 9036 9222 or (02) 9351 8624, form from the website and, at the same discount off the normal fee. or fax (6 12 9351 6868). Please be ready time, sign up to receive fortnightly View the available courses on the to give us your full name, date of birth, updates from CCE on the latest Alumni Alumni Rush website at http://www. degree(s) and year(s) of graduation, so Rush courses on offer. cce.usyd.edu.au/alumnirush, but be quick we can authenticate your alumni status To subscribe, email ccealumnirush@ to enrol before places are snapped up! before forwarding your application and usyd.edu.au and include the word All initial enquiries and enrolment credit card details to CCE. “subscribe” and your email address in applications to the Alumni Relations You may also download the enrolment the subject line. ■ Wet but rewarding

The annual Antique Fair thrived in by members of the public were the ranging across bone china, book Sydney’s worst storms in 30 years subject of more than 320 professional collecting, art deco ceramics, antique Anyone who was in Sydney over the evaluations by Philip Thomas of Raffan clocks and antique jewellery were well June Long Weekend will remember the Kelaher & Thomas Auctioneers. Owners attended and there were tours of the weather: not simply public holiday paid for his expert assessment and historical buildings and musical dreariness, but violent storms. he donated his time on both days. interludes on the Carillon, organ and One event which capitalised on the Also popular was the silent auction piano. Refreshments were provided by deluge was the annual Chancellor’s with a variety of prizes donated by the University of Sydney Union. Committee Antique Fair held in the businesses such as the hotel Annam The event raised approximately Great Hall: more than 1500 visitors Suites Cascata and Royal Doulton $15,000 – a great result for the purchased tickets. Treasures brought Australia. Expert lectures on topics University scholarship funds, grants, restoration works and other causes funded by The Chancellor’s Committee. The best outcome though, says organiser Julie Burt, was the opportunity for the general public to enjoy the magnificent Great Hall of their University while contributing to worthy causes. ■

Apres le deluge: old wares fundraiser spring 2007 13 feature Critical mass

Obesity, mental illness, risky behaviour and a lack of funding for research and health initiatives makes adolescence a hazardous time for youth, writes Melissa Sweet

any of the major health problems confronting will follow a cohort of rural youth, aged 10 to 18, will investigate MAustralia – such as obesity and mental illnesses – what factors influence their physical and mental well-being. emerge during adolescence and early adulthood. Dr Susan Towns, a senior staff specialist and head of the Adolescence is also a critical period for establishing lifestyle Department of Adolescent Medicine at the Children’s Hospital at behaviours, including those around nutrition, physical activity, Westmead, who will be involved in the Foundation’s awareness - alcohol and drugs, which can have lifelong ramifications for health. raising campaign, says health professionals and services could do Yet the specialty of adolescent medicine is relatively under- much more to cater to adolescents’ particular needs. The developed in Australia, meaning the area often is given low priority department, Australia’s first multi-disciplinary hospital-based in research, clinical services and public health programs. adolescent service, has been advocating a more responsive But the University of Sydney’s Medical Foundation is hoping approach to young people’s special health needs since 1977. to push adolescence higher up the health agenda with the launch “Access to health care is a big issue for young adolescents,” she later this year of a campaign to establish a Chair in Adolescent says. “They don’t know how to negotiate the system. They may be Medicine at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead. reluctant to see the family doctor or any health professional and, “Adolescent health has been somewhat neglected,” says the if they do, they may not be assured of confidentiality which can really limit the effectiveness of the consultation. president of the Foundation, Mr Richard Caldwell, “because of “All of these things are much more of a problem in the country a perception that adolescence is a period of robustness and doesn’t than the city.” require funding.” Dr Towns says parents are also eager for information about A recent Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Report how to better support their children through adolescence and all (see breakout) backs up Mr Caldwell’s concerns, showing high rates its attendant trials. of mental health problems and risk-taking behaviour among youth. “You almost need a parenting booster when you get to the The Foundation hopes to raise $4.5 million to establish the adolescent years,” she says. Chair in perpetuity, in conjunction with the NSW Government. Dr Towns advises setting clear rules covering what behaviour Mr Caldwell expects the Chair to attract additional expertise and is acceptable, particularly around smoking, alcohol and other drugs. funding, to build a strong “backbone” in adolescent health programs. “Teenagers respond to structures and support that are nego- Adolescents in rural and remote Australia will be a priority tiated within a framework of rules and boundaries,” she says.“You focus, reflecting concerns that they are at increased risk of a have to be warm and empathic and nurturing, but at the same range of health problems while having worse access than their time create the boundaries that teenagers need to work within.” city cousins to services. Dr Towns says binge drinking is an increasing health threat for Meanwhile, greater insights into the health of rural children and youth – and that often parents are contributing. “More and more adolescents are expected to emerge from a major new project being data shows that a lot of parents are supplying under-age kids and undertaken by University of Sydney researchers. The study, which parties with alcohol,” she says.

14 sydney alumni magazine illustration: Sarah Duke

When it comes to obesity, adolescence is both a time of threat ■ Increasing numbers of young Australian are reporting and opportunity. It is a high risk time for gaining weight, but high or very high levels of psychological distress. In 2004-5, intervening with overweight teenagers produces much better 12 per cent of men aged 18 to 24 and 19 per cent of women results than trying to intervene with adult obesity. reported high or very high levels of distress. This was an “Get it right in early adolescence and you set them on a path increase from 1997 when 7 per cent of men and 13 per cent to healthy adulthood,” says Dr Towns. of women reported such problems. Meanwhile, Professor Ian Hickie, executive director of the Brain and Mind Research Institute at the University of Sydney, ■ In 2004-5, 51 per cent of young women and 40 per cent of agrees that health services could do far more to meet the needs young men reported moderate to very high levels of psych- of youth, particularly in mental health. logical distress. Youth are a priority of the Institute, which was established in ■ Eighteen per cent of young people had a psychiatric 2003, bringing together patients, support groups and front-line condition, with anxiety and depression the most common carers, including psychiatrists, neurologists and neurosurgeons, problems. with scientists working in neurosciences and brain research. ■ Death rates among young people aged 12-24 halved “The overwhelming health issues of young people are mental between 1980 and 2004, largely due to decreases in death health and substance abuse,” says Professor Hickie. due to injury. But he says Australia has been slow to reorient its mental ■ One quarter of young people was overweight or obese in health services in response to ever-accumulating evidence that 2004-5. adolescence and early adulthood is a critical time for intervention as it is when many major mental illnesses emerge. ■ Recommended physical activity guidelines were being met “Fifteen to 25 is where it’s all at in terms of early intervention by 46 per cent of males and 30 per cent of females in 2004-5. but (medical school) teaching remains largely focused on ■ Drinking alcohol in amounts to put them at risk of harm chronicity, or treating people when they are 40,” he says. was reported by 31 per cent of young people. “We need a major system change and redirection of services, ■ Around 17 percent of young people but getting the Titanic to turn that way is rather difficult.” ■ were current smokers in 2004.

Melissa Sweet is the author of The Big Fat Conspiracy: How to Source: Young Australians, Their health protect your family’s health (ABC Books, $32.95), which includes and well-being 2007, Australian Institute tips for families, communities, governments and other groups for of Health and Welfare tackling the epidemic of obesity in children and adolescents. It also profiles the work of many University of Sydney academics.

spring 2007 15 profile Jack Manning Bancroft (BA Media & Comm ’06)

AIMEing for the stars

Jack Manning Bancroft is young, gifted and he aims to help other black kids realise their own potential. By Marie Jacobs with additional reporting by Heidi Mortlock

simple idea and some dedicated mother is the artist Bronwyn Bancroft. He decided to instigate a program of volunteers are improving the And since his childhood he has been positive role modelling – university Alives and futures of indigenous surrounded by Aboriginal people who students to mentor indigenous kids – high school students as well as imbuing are successful in the wider Australian hoping this would have the effect of in- a sense of community and respect community. fluencing them to stay in school and, between indigenous and non- “I saw things my mother and her eventually, to go for a university place. indigenous participants. friends did as normal,” Manning Bancroft “There is something enchanting “It’s real, it’s meaningful, it’s so says. “When I was at high school what about the process of learning and the enjoyable, and it’s more fulfilling than got me through were a few different power that comes with knowledge,” says money or a night on the town could people that I looked up to who were Manning Bancroft. He aligned the AIME ever be,” says 22-year-old Jack Manning good role models.” idea with projects and workshops for Bancroft. “For those who don’t take this The idea began to grow on Manning the kids, to try and re-engage their chance, it’s their loss. They will regret it Bancroft at Sydney University. He began interest in schooling. in five or ten years when those involved a course at the University’s Koori Centre What started in 2005 as a 12-week reflect on being part of a program that and realised that the widespread indige- pilot scheme for 25 Year Nine students has changed the nation.” nous community problems in health, at Alexandria Park Community School A former University of Sydney student, education and living standards are has now expanded to a four-stranded Manning Bancroft is talking about program involving more than 100 kids Australian Indigenous Mentoring from five schools: Tempe High School, Experience (AIME), a unique mentoring Leichhardt Secondary College, Balmain program for indigenous high school “I have a white dad Secondary College, St Scholastica’s students in Sydney, which he set up in and my mum is College and the original, Alexandria Park. 2005. The scheme is distinctive because Students have one hour a week face-to- as well as attracting some expert and Aboriginal. I’ve face tutoring with their mentor. “In Year well known participants, the mentors grown up in Nine, we try and get them re-engaged; are all university students who have in Year 10, we try and challenge them volunteered their time to the program. both worlds” with a leadership approach and in Year Manning Bancroft (awarded the 11 and 12 we help get them through it,” inaugural ANZ Indigenous Scholarship Manning Bancroft explains. in 2003) was inspired to devise AIME For Year Nine students in 2006, the by his own experiences growing up. interlinked with the absence of Aboriginal program was built on interaction, with “I am passionate about my identity as students in higher education and that workshops in drama, art, hip hop, racism an Aboriginal Australian,” he says. “I’m stems directly from the failure to retain and creative writing. The skill sessions black but my skin colour isn’t. I have a Aboriginal kids in the school system. included résumé building,goal setting white dad and my mum is Aboriginal. “I don’t think it’s the most mind- and relationship building. Interactive I’ve grown up in both worlds and I’m a blowing idea of all time,” says Manning workshops included a screening of the product of harmony between the two, Bancroft. “It’s just based on a simple movie Yolngu Boy and a rugby league and I wouldn’t have it any other way.” premise that some kids don’t have workshop at Telstra Stadium. Manning Bancroft’s father is play- strong role models or someone to show The 2006 intake was the inaugural wright and actor Ned Manning and his an interest in them.” year for Year 10 students, who worked

16 sydney alumni magazine with their mentors on a major project over 18 weeks focusing on one of the skill subjects. The results have been encouraging, says Manning Bancroft, with all of the students who completed the program managing to finish their projects. One student produced a short play; others created their own t-shirt designs and fashion labels, while another created a comic book. “Knowledge isn’t prejudiced towards anyone,” he says. “It can’t be. If people have the opportunity and the relevant skills, then they can access any form of information, decipher it and make it their own.”

or a simple idea, the results have been remarkable. The rate of Fattendance at school has shown a 40 per cent increase on days when men- toring sessions take place. But the most rewarding part for Manning Bancroft is seeing the results first hand. “I am at every session and can see the kids growing in confidence,” he says. “A lot of the teachers say it’s really made a difference in the culture of the school.” Another aspect is the positive feedback from the kids and mentors. “I’ve had uni students say it is the most fulfilling thing they have done at university and an opportunity to engage in something

real and feel like they are making a photo: Diana Simmonds difference,” says Manning Bancroft. “And some of the indigenous mentors have “There is something enchanting about the process of learning and the power that said they find it really inspiring for them comes with knowledge,” says Jack Manning Bancroft to be thrust into a leadership position.” One of the main indicators of AIME’s success is the calibre of people he has “The effects are twofold, as many of engender a culture where the kids see been able to involve, such as Marion Potts, the Aboriginal kids have never had a the value of education. associate director of Bell Shakespeare white person take an interest in them “We have Aboriginal people running Company (who just happens to be before,” says Manning Bancroft. “If not most of our sessions and successful married to his dad and has run the more importantly, we have non-indige- people from all walks of life saying – drama sessions). His mother, Bronwyn nous mentors going back to their listen, we’re proud, we’re Aboriginal Bancroft, runs the art sessions, while families and friends with a knowledge and we’re educated.” hip hop is in the care of Street Warriors, of Aboriginal Australia they’ve never The further potential for AIME is also a well known indigenous hip hop something Manning Bancroft is determined group from Newcastle. The National had on a personal level – this helps Rugby League and National Aboriginal create a sense of community and respect.” to explore in the wider community. Sporting Corporation Australia are also Although the main goal on a public “The potential is limitless,” he says. supporters of the program. level is helping indigenous kids get “If communities around the country One of the most powerful effects of to university, the reality is that many embrace the concept of education the program is the process of breaking are struggling in terms of literacy through this format we could have down entrenched or unconscious and numeracy. AIME operating at every high school discrimination and stereotypes. About “We try and get them prepared confi- around the country as a cross cultural 10-15 per cent of the mentors are in- dently and socially for life as much as education tool. Imagine what a non- digenous but the rest are not and many for university,” says Manning Bancroft. indigenous student could learn from have never met an Aboriginal or Torres “That’s almost as important to me.” being mentored by an indigenous Strait Islander before. He hopes the program will help university student!” ■

spring 2007 17 cover story Brown Bear Lane in black & white

Pierre Mol tells Fran Molloy how he turned a 100-year-old photograph into Australia’s largest mural Pierre Mol and part of the equipment of the 21st century muralist

isitors walking down Sydney’s George Street are doing a Archaeology. His own Art and Archaeology practice covers double-take when they approach the entrance to The a range of projects, from creating visualisations of a site for VRocks where a larger-than life mural depicts a 1901 view planning or educational purposes, to explaining and reproducing of old Brown Bear Lane. cultural artefacts. University of Sydney graduate Dr Pierre Mol created the Although archaeology is a growing part of his practice, Mol artwork, which reproduces an original black and white photo- describes himself as an artist with an interest in archaeology on graph of the cobble-stoned laneway that once linked George the side. Street to Cumberland Street, passing the notorious pub The “I really haven’t been out of university for something like Brown Bear. 20 years,” he admits. Although the pub and laneway were demolished more than a Mol took a year off after leaving school then completed a century ago, on a grey day the artwork is realistic enough to Bachelor of Visual Arts degree at the then City Art Institute (now tempt the casual observer to take a wrong turn – and it is the College of Fine Arts at the University of New South Wales.) rapidly becoming one of the area’s most photographed sites. Graduate studies in painting followed and then he enrolled at Mol’s varied career includes work as a lecturer, writer, researcher the University of Sydney to study philosophy. and artist. He is also an academic, with a passionate belief in the “I wanted to do my PhD and needed a good understanding of value that cross-disciplinary approaches can bring to research – the history and philosophy of science, which helped me develop in any discipline. the scientific model I used in my PhD to analyse art history,” Mol runs a commercial fine art business, with his com- Mol says. misioned work appearing in private and public spaces worldwide Further postgraduate studies in art culminated in the award – including an enormous mural for the Sultan of Brunei. of a PhD in Art History in 2002 for the development of a model He is a part-time academic at the College of Fine Arts at the that helped understand the different language and terms used by University of New South Wales, where he teaches Art and art historians across time. photos: Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority

20 sydney alumni magazine “You can’t disassociate art history from archaeology, because they both investigate the culture of the past.”

“We couldn’t actually identify whether there has been devel- opment and progress in art because of the language used by art historians and art theorists – terms are used very loosely,” he says. “Science has one of the only models in any discipline that talks about progress in a very fixed way, so I developed a system based on the scientific model that art historians can refer to, it’s some- thing that you apply in the margins of your theory, in the margins of art history.” While completing his PhD, Mol was also undertaking post- graduate studies in historical archaeology at the University of Sydney. The relationship between art history and archaeology is very strong, Mol says. “If you talk to art historians or archaeologists on their own they don’t really work as if there’s a connection between the two disciplines, but in fact there’s a very tight working connection,” he explains. “You can’t disassociate art history from archaeology, because they both investigate the culture of the past.” Sydney Foreshore Authority archaeologist Dr Wayne Johnson says that he has engaged Mol and other artists to bring archaeology to life for the public, both through historical documentation of sites and for visualisation. “Artists do have a role to play in the interpretation of the results of archaeology,” Johnson says. “For example, we’ve used an artist to do a reconstruction of a building over the site of an excavation of a series of eight terrace houses in The Rocks at Foundation Park.” Mol is continuing research in archaeology at the University and maintains strong ties with the Archaeological Computing Laboratory, which is involved in visualisations of historic sites. “I deal with visualising artefacts as well as sites, gathering the archaeological data together to make sense of it,” he says. Increasing public interest in archaeology has put pressure on archaeologists to present their findings in a more accessible way. Archaeologists these days are constantly consulted on the edu- cational use of their data for museums, schools, for TV shows and documentaries, Mol says. Visualisations allow the use of archaeological data in a way that helps the general public understand the meaning of what is being dug out of the ground. “A lot of the archaeological data is cultural data, not just the measurements of buildings,” Mol says. “The data includes what

spring 2007 21 the building was used for, whether it was religious purposes, festivals or other cultural purposes.” He believes that a cross-disciplinary approach, consulting experts in fields such as art history, will allow archaeologists to properly visualise the data. “Until recently archaeologists haven’t concentrated on the conceptual side of the culture or why things happened over time – they have just been interested in getting to the facts,” Mol says. “But when you start talking about this information in a historical way, you need to consult people who have studied cultural history.” Things are changing; Mol says that archaeologists and art historians are beginning to collaborate for exhibitions and mu- seum presentations – although, he admits, archaeologists aren’t keen on museum work, they prefer to be out in the field. “But art historians also have to get out in the field because of the cross-disciplinary nature of contemporary archaeology. Art historians have to deal with objects and with science and real ground data.” He believes that the archaeologists who will make a difference in future are those who have a good feel for cross-disciplinary studies, and cites the University of Sydney’s Department of Archaeology as a leader in this approach. “They refer to other consultants in different fields, historians, anthropologists, technicians,” he says. He adds that he gains a lot of satisfaction in his own role in explaining and interpreting historic sites. For instance, the mural

Named for the pub – the Brown Bear – which was once its most notorious landmark, Pierre Mol (left) has rescued a long-gone Rocks lane from the obscurity of a fading photograph. But the identity of the mother and daughter remains a mystery Painting by numbers “It’s quite a confronting image Turning a 1901 black and white photograph into an uncannily realistic looking building-sized mural takes a lot of skill and and because it’s right at the planning – but even an experienced artist such as Pierre Mol beginning of The Rocks, it gives would have taken many months to complete the project without some technological shortcuts. a good introduction to what The on-site painting of the mural by Mol and his assistant The Rocks is about.” took just seven days, although there was about a month of studio preparation beforehand. “The cost of doing this project by hand would have been prohibitive,” Mol says. “In my business, you have to think of every single shortcut depicting the original Brown Bear Lane in The Rocks is just a to cut costs. It teaches you to be resourceful. I have no problem snapshot in time of a site which had dozens of different uses over using technology because without it, the work would be different periods, he says. unaffordable.” He says that The Rocks remains a highly dynamic place, The photograph was scanned and then “posterised,” using despite its heritage nature and the attempts to preserve the past. Photoshop, to reduce the many shades of grey to just five “The mural reproduces a photograph from 1901, complete tones, three grades in black and white. with figures representing the fashion of the times. It’s quite a Then, another image was created, using a different graphics confronting image and because it’s right at the beginning of The package – a line drawing of the photograph, outlining the Rocks, it gives a good introduction to what The Rocks is about,” border between every single colour variation on the image. he says. The image was divided into 64 squares which would be “It’s not just a fun park for history. I think that the educational used on-site. Then, each square was printed onto acetate, used for side of what I do is really important.”■ projecting the image onto a large sheet of paper in the studio and then Mol traced the lines onto the paper using a special “transfer pen.” Then the image had to be reversed before it could be trans- ferred to the wall. Meanwhile, down at The Rocks, scaffolding was being erected along the wall so that the artists could access the full height of the building; the first stage in the mural process was to transfer the image from each of the 64 squares of paper, onto the wall. Paper to wall was accomplished by wiping the paper over with water which released the line image to its final destination on the side of the building. Before that, however, every individual shape within the line image had also been numbered. “Because we work so close to the wall, you can’t see what line is what – so every shape had a number and that number cor- responded to the number of a particular paint,” Mol explains. “And so, at the end, it became just painting by numbers.”

The photograph was scanned ... to reduce the many shades of grey to just five tones

spring 2007 23 poetry & science

Celebrating Linnaeus

In the Age Of Enlightenment there was no separation of powers – poetry and science co-existed and each was considered as important as the other. These poems by John Bennett – a selection of those inspired by and written for the exhibition Rational Order and the specimens illustrated here – continue Linnaeus’s legacy of stimulating imagination, memory, art and science

Linnaean sonnets and none healed with prosthetic eyes. This pretty bird looks well, head perched on an upright neck, good enough to be a decoy, First day with the specimens 1 and if I look past the barred tail? I see snow sculpting trees before the sun pulls the rug out from under the icing, I was first introduced to the crabs, and told, “You will need and the bird flying through a blizzard, and Kepler, court astrologer to stand on the chair”, but noticed from the archive walking back from the castle, noticing the snowflakes on his coat rows of birds, a selection named by Linnaeus laid on a table were all six-sided, and muttering “in that we say Nature plays”; (could be a kitchen but for the stink of moth balls). whereas Hooke saw, "the most simple and plain operation of Nature". The grouse and quail look similar with russet sepias The bird flies past us all straight into the bank of snow and subtle golds, barred nutty browns with reds growth tips, so as to leave no footprints for hunters to follow. woven like the finest Persian carpets, bars and chevrons achieving camouflage, becoming as beautiful as the sea. Cézanne saw the world through paint, paint through colour First day with the specimens 3 and plasticity, saw through the world; Linnaeus saw feathers from the Gk. mouseion “a shrine of the Muses”, from Mousa “Muse.” in a catalogue. A monologue on language and morphology I leave largest bird till last, not the best but blackest, ‘a structure of difference’ lapses, onomatopoeia catches up dark plumage set off by a paradise ruff of metallic sheen, with the murmur of bee-eaters in immemorial elms. claws extend beneath large feathered legs, a material weight What rhymes with grouse apart from mouse? has landed, large biceps with a heaviness that cannot fly, and I realise I’ve run my quarry to ground on a table. First day with the specimens 2 The capacaillie I searched for in the Swiss Jura in July mist, cold to the bone, almost hearing silence, What strikes us both is a Willow Ptarmigan, capsized on its side taking shelter in an old barn of stone and wood, fire-blackened onto a beady black eye; its feet are furred, no sign of claws, rafters, iron implements by a huge hearth. Met a farmer “The white plumage, full time or seasonal?” I ask, thinking of hares, in just a shirt who said summer produced cheese there then notice the other dozen birds are all on until the young men refused the hard their backs and lonely work. That craft was finished. This craft is always just beginning, needy for the hubris that language can work with anything, refusing the strangeness of other thoughts, people, species. The Insects Members boast such colour and variety in a glorious order of quality and quantity (mammals and birds each contain as many species as a typical insect family, around 5,000). But so many are anonymous; of 5,000 Australian butterflies and moths named, most in London where collections were taken (and where this collection began, separated from its ecology), only 1,000 caterpillars have been matched to their morphs. A jewelled beetle drowning in our pond I’ll name Ophelia, only a quarter of our ants have been formally identified. The pollinators and scavengers survive what is thrown at them- thermo-nuclear explosions, asteroid impacts, germ warfare, global warming, Mortein or our incredible diversity of footwear, but there’s something about the cockroach (Neoptera) capable of surviving a month without food, and for a week without a head.

Quiz for the younger visitor If a spider has 6 legs (or 8) and a racoon 3 (or 4), what colour is a loris? If you like eating chicken, would you prefer to taste Indian mynah, stormy petrel or boobook owl? How many birds are not seagulls? If whales are not fish, why do they live in the sea? There are 10,000 tigers behind bars guess how many live in the wild? Do you think animals prefer living in danger or in the safety of a zoo? Why do you think vampires fear garlic? Is it because they are obsessed with personal grooming? If all the plants and animals too small to see were weighed, would they weigh more, or less than all the plants and animals you can see? ■

Rational Order: Carl von Linné (1707-1778), Macleay Museum, University of Sydney, 20 February-20 October 2007

Specimens from the Macleay Museum collections are clockwise from left: Yellow Boxfish (Ostracion cubicus); Weevil (Brachycerus apterus); Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus); Spangled Cotinga (Cotinga cayana) and Ermine (Mustela erminea) alumni updates

UK Alumni Summer Reception at House of Lords

The splendid House of Lords Terrace Professor Andrew Coats, spoke of overlooking the Thames was the venue Sydney’s international rankings rise, for the UK Alumni Association’s annual notably those of the Times Higher summer reception on 11 July. The event Education Supplement, which places attracted more than 250 UK-based alumni. Sydney 35th in the world and its Baroness Trixie Gardner of Parkes Humanities at 5th in the world. (BDS ’54), Deputy President of the A feature of the day was a sympo- Association, hosted the reception and sium, attended by more than 50 President Pauline Lyle-Smith (BA ’67, alumni and academics, held before LLB ’70), welcomed alumni and empha- the reception at University College sised the importance of keeping in touch London. Titled “The Frontiers of with each other and the University. Knowledge”, it brought alumni up Guests of honour Vice-Chancellor, to date with developments in stem cell research and legal and Steven Cosser, Baroness Gardner of Parkes Professor Gavin Brown AO FAA, and the (Trixie) and Professor Andrew Coats, Deputy Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Community), ethical implications. ■ Vice Chancellor (Community)

Economics & Business: stay in touch

The Faculty of Economics and Business was established The Faculty recognises that the best people to advise in 1920, since when more than 30,000 students have on such an initiative and to gain graduated from studies in business, economics and momentum for the project are alumni themselves. government. The Faculty’s alumni are to be found in With this in mind a Faculty Alumni Working Group has more than 100 countries, although the majority still call been established to strengthen the communication NSW home. Many graduates are in senior leadership between alumni and the Faculty and to advise on the positions in business, business-related professions and development of a range of activities and programs. public life in Australia and around the world. There are currently nine alumni members of the Linked with the University’s Alumni Relations Working Group. They are: Glen Bertram (BCom (Hons) Office is the Faculty’s dedicated Alumni Rela- ’04, LLB (Hons) ’06), Michael Crivelli (BEc ’63), Kaye tions Manager, Kim Lockwood. She leads Dening AM (BEc ’67), David H Jacobs (BEc (Hons) ’74), a team that is focused on enhancing Wayne Lonergan (BEc ’67), Joycelyn Morton (BEc ’80), communications and engagement with John O’Mahony (BCom (LibStud) (Hons) ’03), Linda K graduates, including the development Smith (BAgrEc ’92, MCom ’04) and Hui Zheng (MCom of a range of events and programs ’01, PhD ‘07). that will help them stay connected to Michael Crivelli says: “Being a part of the Alumni former classmates, the Faculty and Network for the Faculty is a great way to reconnect the University. with friends, classmates and staff from my university Professor Peter Wolnizer (MEc ‘76, days. I now attend the networking drinks functions as PhD ‘86), Dean of the Faculty of often as I can and enjoy staying connected with the Economics and Business says: Faculty which has been so influential in my life.” “The Faculty highly values and is If you would like to get involved and receive regular enormously proud of our graduates, notification of activities, or if you would like to organise and is committed to building a life- a reunion yourself or make suggestions as to how we long partnership with alumni and can effectively engage with alumni, please contact we would like to renew, expand Kim Lockwood. and nurture our relationships with The Faculty will hold its next Alumni drinks function past graduates. I believe this interac- in Sydney on Wednesday 31st October 2007, 6-8 pm. tion to be of mutual benefit to us all For further details and forthcoming plans, please and I strongly encourage participation, contact Alumni Relations Officer, Kim Lockwood on now and in the future.” [email protected] or +61 2 9036 6271. ■

26 sydney alumni magazine alumni updates

The University of Sydney Alumni Council (GradCertDesSc ’02, PhD ’06) The Alumni Council has developed a new communications model to further Dr Jinfeng Xu: master of the anechoic improve links with alumni associations, Dr Jingfeng Xu would probably not be anyone’s faculties, Senate, student groups and its ideal date to take to a concert. role as a communications hub. The “My wife always complains about me moving my Council was very active in the first half head around. Better still, if I can get up and walk about of 2007, increasing alumni presence I will,” he says. Dr Xu is into acoustics. Annoyingly trying at graduations, attending a range of to find the best spot in a concert hall is one of the side alumni events, and negotiating preferred effects of the past seven years Xu has spent studying and working in the discount rates for alumni associations’ field of noise. use of University venues. The year 2006 was a big one for Jingfeng Xu. Not only did he complete A successful Alumni Forum was held his PhD but he also received the Australian Acoustical Society’s Award on 5 June with more than 50 represen- for Excellence in Acoustics. In 2007 he has picked up two further awards; tatives attending. Communication one from the Chartered Institute of Building and the other from the templates were launched at the forum, Australian Institute of Building. providing user-friendly publications Born and educated in Shanghai, Xu received a post graduate scholarship aimed at an integrated approach to to do his Masters in Mechanical Engineering at UNSW. While at UNSW alumni promotional materials. Xu took elective subjects in his emerging field of interest – acoustics – at The Queen’s Birthday Honours the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning. recognised 78 alumni, friends and staff; It was during these elective units that Xu met Professor Fergus Fricke, a man letters of congratulation were sent from who Xu describes as “always putting forward challenges and helping”. the Vice-Chancellor with many warm The thing about Xu’s work that has captured the attention and admi- responses in return. ■ ration of industry and institutions is that he has come up with a sound proofing application which is 70 per cent cheaper than existing methods. The application involves the use of readily available building materials, not unlike insulation bats. Layering these materials takes the place of the currently widely used expensive customized wedges. Now based in Singapore, Xu is working for Arup, one of the world’s largest acoustic companies. “Acoustics is about balance, the balance between reflections and absorptions,” explains Dr Xu. His application has been used in an anechoic room at the University of Western Sydney, designed to conduct spatial audio reproduction. (Anechoic rooms are rooms without echoes; they do not produce sound reflections.) These spaces are used to test noise levels and “may be useful for Lord Mayor The Vice-Chancellor Professor Gavin Clover Moore to measure the decibels Brown with Alison Kewley, Chair, Younger Members Group (USUKAA) of leaf blowers, car stereos,” and other neighbourhood trouble-makers, he (only half) jokes. While concert halls and stadia require some sound to be reflected it seems, however, that not all venues meet with the approval of Dr Xu’s expert ears. Dr Xu offers recommendations for Sydney concert goers: “I really like going to concerts at Angel Place and the new Carriageworks in Redfern is terrific.” Given Xu’s understanding of noise this Emeritus Professor Stapleton, David is no doubt sound advice. McIntosh, Margaret Hearn and Professor City Recital Hall, Angel Place, Andrew Coats, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (City of Sydney) — Helen McKenzie (Community)

spring 2007 27 18 September 2007 diary Sydney University Arts Association Inaugural Lecture: Professor Paul Redding (Philosophy) ‘Idealism: a philosophy that dare not 28 September 2007 speak its name’ Alumni Awards Presentation Woolley Lecture Theatre N395, 6pm, The MacLaurin Hall 6pm – 8pm refreshments in foyer from 5.15pm. Guest Speaker: His Excellency Call: Paul Crittenden 61 2 9799 7796 Michael L’Estrange AO (BA ’75), or email Secretary of the Department of Sat 8 September 2007 [email protected] tel. Foreign Affairs and Trade Info and Annual Reunion Dinner Wesley RSVP call 61 2 9036 9278 or email College Foundation and presentation 22 September 2007 [email protected] or of Wesley Foundation Medal Dental Alumni Society Annual Dinner www.usyd.edu.au/alumni_awards Call: Cathy Bray 61 2 9565 3299 7:00pm for 7:30pm start RSVP: 30 September 2007 or email Dr Mark Braund 61 2 9247 8989 or 1972 Medical Reunion foundation@wesleycollege-usyd. edu.au email [email protected] Where: Astral Restaurant, Star City Time: 6pm. Contact: Harry Merkur, 16 September 2007 23 September 2007 Les Schrieber and Tony Eyers Wisteria Lunch – Women’s College Le Coeur du Temps Sydney [email protected] Call: Eliza Newton 61 2 9517 5008 Conservatorium of Music or email Sensational Sundays Series 3 October 2007 [email protected] Messiaen//Dvorak//Ravel & compli- mentary wine tasting from Roberts Wesley College Foundation Oration Call Cathy Bray 61 2 9565 3299 History Day & History Week at Estate Wines from 3.30pm or email University Museums Events including Call: 6 12 8256 2222 or [email protected] talks, handling objects, children’s www.music.usyd.edu.au activities (Sun, 12 noon-4pm); specialist heritage tours 25 September 2007 7 October 2007 (Tue-Thur 18-20 September) at Graduate Connections Breakfast with Meet the Artist: Roy Barker Macleay and Nicholson Museums and Robert Albert AO (LLB ’60) (see photo). Macleay Museum, 2pm. University Art Gallery. ‘Setting our lives to Music’ 7:15 am, The Atrium, Sydney Conservatorium 8 October 2007 17 September 2007 of Music Alumni $45, Guests $50, Chinese Studies Alumni Association Australian Universities Swedish $320/table of 8 Info and RSVP by AGM, guest speaker Dr Michael Alumni Reception Friday 14 September, Paton, speaking on ‘The Bifurcation of Call 61 2 9036 9278 or email Call: 61 2 9036 9278 or email East and West and the Problem with [email protected] [email protected] Moralities: A Southern Environmental Perspective’. Info: Jocelyn Chey [email protected]

9 October 2007 Power Institute Alumni & Friends Association An evening tour of the University’s Museums with curators of the Macleay and Nicholson Museums and War Memorial Gallery. 6.00-8.00pm. Info call: 9351 4211 or [email protected]

10 October – 3 November 2007 Fauvette Loureiro Memorial Artists Travel Scholarship Finalist Exhibition Sydney College of the Arts Tue-Fri, 11am–5pm, Sat 11am–4pm Call 6 12 9351 1008 or email [email protected] or Roy Barker: contemporary Indigenous responses to Linnaeus www.usyd.edu.au/sca

28 sydney alumni magazine 13 October 2007 26 October 2007 27 October 2007 Women’s College Orange Reunion SMEA (University of Sydney Mechanical Spring Back to Sydney Reunion Call Eliza Newton 61 2 9517 5008 Engineering Alumni, incorporating For all alumni who graduated in a or email Aerospace and Mechatronic Engi- year ending in ‘7’. [email protected] neering) Reunion Dinner For alumni Info and RSVP: 61 2 9036 9278; or who graduated in a year ending in ‘2’ email [email protected]; 13 October 2007 and ‘7’. Info: Yvonne Witting www.usyd.edu.au/spring_back UK Alumni Association Autumn [email protected] Lecture: “Extreme Natural Hazards – Should We Be Concerned?” 28 October 2007 Presented by Herbert Huppert Keynes Parthenon Day Hall, Kings College, Cambridge. Info The temple dedicated to Athena is call Kerrie Botley +44 20 72016882 or celebrated in talks, children’s email [email protected] activities and the chance to handle contemporary Greek archaeological material. Nicholson Museum. 23 October 2007 Dr Charles Perkins AO Spring Back to Sydney Annual Memorial 31 October 2007 Oration and Prize The Faculty of Economics and 20 November 2007 Marion Scrymgour, Business Alumni Drinks Function Graduate Connections Breakfast with MLA, Minister in Info: Kim Lockwood 61 2 9036 6271 or Professor Jill Ker Conway (BA ’58) Northern Territory email: [email protected] The Tearoom, Queen Victoria Building, Government The Great 7.15am. Alumni $45, Guests $50, Hall, 6pm Info and RSVP 31 October 2007 $320/table of 8. Info and RSVP by by Friday 12 October, Marion 1952 Materia Medica 55 Year Friday 9 Nov, call 61 2 9036 9278 or 61 2 9036 9278 or email Scrymgour Reunion Lunch email [email protected] [email protected] MLA Info: Margarethe Trimble, Pharmacy Alumni Association, 61 2 9351 2668 or 20 November 2007 19 October 2007 email: [email protected] Bilsons Degustation Dinner 1957 Materia Medica Reunion Info: Margarethe Trimble, Pharmacy Call Margaret Middleton 61 2 9499 2 November 2007 Alumni Association, 61 2 9351 2668 or 2501 23 October 2007 Dr Charles Wesley Senior Old Collegians Lunch email: [email protected] Perkins AO Annual Memorial Oration Info: call Cathy Bray 61 2 9565 3299 and Prize Marion Scrymgour, MLA, or email 24 November 2007 Minister in Northern Territory [email protected] 1977 Medical Reunion Government The Great Hall, 6pm Info Great Hall, 7pm. Call: Tony Joseph and RSVP by Friday 12 October, 6 12 9926 7921 or (email preferred) 61 2 9036 9278 or 6 November 2007 [email protected] [email protected] Faculty of Medicine Lunch for Senior Alumni 1963 – 1970 Info: call Diana Lovegrove 2 December 2007 25 October 2007 61 2 9036 3367 or email 1970s Reunion Lunch Sydney University Arts Association [email protected] Info: Eliza Newton 61 2 9517 5008 Inaugural lecture: Professor Mark or email Colyvan (Philosophy) [email protected] Woolley Lecture Theatre, N395, 6pm, 10 November 2007 refreshments in foyer from 5.15pm. Beijing Alumni Reunion Reception 2 December 2007 Call: Paul Crittenden 6 12 9799 7796 Beijing Hotel, 6pm. Info and RSVP by Sydney University Graduate Choir or email Friday 26 October, 61 2 9036 9278 or presents City of Sydney Sings Messiah! [email protected] email [email protected] Sydney Town Hall. Info: www.sydneysingsmessiah.com 26 October 2007 11 November 2007 Engineering and IT Research Morpheus – Mark Hilton Hilton’s 8 December 2007 Conversazione latest work focuses on the Greek god Sydney University Graduate Choir Seymour Centre Morpheus, morphine and contemporary presents Noël Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Contact KeiranPassmore drug usage and includes objects from Oratorio, carols, and other Christmas [email protected] the Nicholson Museum and the Rare pieces Great Hall, 8pm. Phone 02 9351 5768 Books Collection. To 20 January 2008. Info: www.usyd.edu.au/gradchoir

spring 2007 29 grapevine Class notes across the decades

and studies in 2002 and his Australia where I nursed in pets and wildlife will be 2000s studies at the Pontifical Mullewa for 18 months, indulged in this position. North American College, then Kalgoorlie for three and a half years. During Amanda Cottingham Rome in 2004. James is Maria Divina Paredes that time I married David (BEd (Sec Hum), BA ’04) thrilled that his parents Japa (MInternatStud and am now a full-time completed a BA (Honours) John McCarthy QC and (Old Resolutions) ’99) mother to Madeline (5) and at Monash University in Christine McCarthy will now in New Zealand and Stuart (3). We are currently 2006 and is starting an MA join him for this momen- writing under the by-line expecting No.3, due in early in Creative Writing at tous occasion. He remains Divina Paredes, was winner October. We recently moved grateful for the education he of Best Magazine Features Melbourne University in to Perth for David’s work; received at the University of Writer (information and 2007. Amanda also owns a and to fund my spending Sydney, providing him with communications technology) Kip McGrath Education habits I have been a Tupper- many valuable experiences. in the Qantas Media Centre in Ringwood. ware demonstrator for the Awards; and inaugural Octavian Sarbatore past three and a half years James McCarthy (BA ’04) Fronde Synergy Hi-Tech (BA ’02, MA Hons ’04) is (and loving it!). is to be ordained to the Journalist of the Year award. moving to his native Romania Order of Deacons for the in order to start a new ca- Geraldine Brown Catholic Archdiocese of Adrian Kwang-Eung reer as author. He has pub- (MTeach ’98) the seachange Sydney at St Peter’s Basilica Jeon (MCom ’98) has been lished so far in Australia ten started in 2006 when we in the Vatican. Archbishop promoted to Mortgage titles in Romanian and five moved from Sydney to John Patrick Foley, President Specialist with Royal Bank in English. Ref: National Bathurst. But now we feel Emeritus of the Pontifical Library of Australia we have washed up at our of Canada, serving the Council for Social Commu- http:/www.nla.gov.au final destination – Molong. Lower Mainland. He is living nications and Pro Grand I am teaching at Molong in Vancouver and baby Master of the Equestrian Central School and we have Ryan arrived (4th June). Order of the Holy Sepulchre just purchased 150 acres of Jerusalem, will ordain 1990s which we intend to cultivate. Richard Maegraith James on 4th October 2007 (BMus – Jazz ’95, MMus at 9:30am at the Altar of the Kiersten Boyd (Rickwood) Anne Fowler (BSc (Vet) – Jazz ’01) has been a Chair in the Papal Basilica. (BNursing ’94) after grad- (Hons) ’92, BVSc ’93) saxophonist, flautist, James began his formation uating I moved to Western graduated with a BSc clarinettist, bass guitarist investigating Vitamin D and drummer in the RAAF metabolism in nocturnal Air Command Band. In marsupials and BVSc the December and January he SHARE YOUR NEWS following year. She then completed a tour with the worked in mixed and small band of Iraq and Afghanistan, University of Sydney alumni are invited to share their animal practices in the Hunter playing for coalition troops. news in this section of the Sydney Alumni Magazine. Valley, East Gippsland, Albury In Sydney, he has been We’re interested in hearing about your career, academic -Wodonga and Geelong performing in the band for achievements, community involvement, or other events. areas where she also treated Priscilla Queen of the Desert: the Musical as well as other Please send details via email birds and wildlife cases. freelance ventures. He or post to the Sydney Alumni Anne completed her can be contacted at Magazine editor. Full contact Memberships in Avian www.richardmaegraith.com details are listed on page 1. Health in 2004. She has taken the position of Senior You can also update your Clinical Veterinary Registrar Troy Trgetasic (BAppSc ’92) details and search for classmates at the new Wildlife Health is happily married to Jane online by registering with your and Conservation Centre Stefanov (BPhysio, La Trobe Alumni Web Community at on the Camden campus ’97); they have a lovely www.usyd.edu.au/alumni which opened in May 2007. daughter – Maxine Sarina Her passion for birds, exotic Trgetasic, age two and a half.

30 sydney alumni magazine Troy is currently working in in 1984. Since then has University in 1996, then the staff of Wellington TAFE. Sydney South West Area practised dentistry in San completed doctorate in Patricia has been precluded Health Service in the Clinical Francisco. Son Ryan, born education. Still involved in by hip problems from Redesign Unit, Jane is com- in Sydney at the time of the practical programs within community activities but pleting a law degree at UNSW. Finals in 1982 recently re- the Faculty of Education and should be up again after ceived his Doctor of Dental Social Work. an operation. Jacqueline Walker Surgery from the University (BA ’99 LLB ’02) has left of the Pacific and is joining Toby Marshall (BEc 73) Terry Sheahan AO Australia for an extended the practice. published the first Australian (BA ’67, LLB ’70) after period to live, work and recruitment book in 2005 – almost six years as inaugural holiday in the UK and Rev Canon Dr Colleen Get Great People. The focus President of the Workers Europe. She is looking O’Reilly (MTh ’87) has of our business is coaching Compensation Commission, forward to catching up recently been appointed to companies to think differ- Justice Terry Sheahan AO with Loreto friends there. St George’s Anglican Church, ently about recruitment. And has returned to the Land Malvern as the first woman then we create new recruit- & Environment Court of Alison Webb (Grad Dip – to become Vicar of this ment products to meet NSW, to which he was first Chinese ’95, MAEd ’00) parish in 150 years. those needs. We opened appointed in 1997. after being a full time the business in 2004 and in mother for 14 years, I 2007 are opening our first Graham Upton returned to study, gaining overseas office – in the USA. (DipEd ’66 BA’66 MA ’69) qualifications in Chinese 1970s I am an active speaker on Professor Upton retired in language and teaching. For the conference circuit, August after ten years as primarily on the topic “The Vice Chancellor of Oxford the past 12 years I’ve taught Carole Hungerford (BA, future of work.” Brookes University in the LOTE Chinese in government MBBS, FAC, NEM ’72) UK. After graduating and private primary schools. and Helene Berenson Graham taught for five I’ve enjoyed two scholarships AMusA, LMusA, MB, BS) to study in universities in both graduated on the same years in Sydney then moved China. My three daughters day in January 1972 in the 1960s to the UK in 1972, where are all graduates or current Great Hall. Thirty five years he has lived ever since. He Jennifer Garner (MBBS ’69) students at Sydney University. later, our offspring graduated undertook a PhD at the 19th March 2007, resumed on 1st June, 2007 in the University of Wales where full time sessional general Great Hall too. That is, Ms he worked for 14 years practice at Southend Medical Jocelyn Hungerford MA before moving to University Centre, Hampton, Victoria. 1980s with Merit (English) and of Birmingham. There he Mr William Davis BLib was Professor of Educational Patricia McMahon Keith Evans (LLM ’82) Studies (International) with Psychology & Special was appointed QC in Nova credit in Government & (BA ’68, DipEd ’69 Sydney Educational Needs; then Scotia, Canada in 2006. He International Relations, Teachers College, LLB ’89) Pro Vice-Chancellor before subsequently accepted a Psychology & History. graduated as a solicitor in moving to Oxford Brookes. position as General Counsel 1992 and is now living in for Lilydale Inc, based in Alan Linnell (MEd ’74, Dubbo, NSW. She is retired Edmonton, Alberta, leaving DEd ’98) spent 13 years but occasionally still gives 1950s a similar position at Scomi teaching in a British sec- legal advice. Patricia was Group Berhad, a Malaysian ondary school before married for the first time Ronald Bowerman based group. migrating to Australia in (at the ripe old age of 67) (BDS ’51) now retired – 1965. Taught for nine years on Easter Saturday, at St regretfully – following major Chun Pang (Tony) at various Sydney high Andrews Uniting Church, heart surgery. Enjoyed prac- Kir (BDS ’83) finished schools before appointment Dubbo, to Arthur Martin tising dentistry for 48 years postgraduate training at the as a lecturer at Alexander formerly of Wellington and in Paddington and Kensing- University of California San Mackie Teachers’ College. Cobar. Arthur is retired but ton, Sydney – making many Francisco – Mt Zion Hospital Retired from Sydney spent more than 20 years on friendships over the years.

spring 2007 31 grapevine

Bernard Rex Davis recently, 43 years after retiring Captain (rtd) Reserve (BA ’54) Canon Davis OAM from the RAAF as a Forces Decoration (RFD). 1940s was re-elected Secretary of Squadron Leader. Still in Retired from practice in Alan Barcan AM (BA, the Board of the Foundation general practice (part time) 2003. Interests: music, art, DipEd ’47) whose book of the Peoples of the South in Townsville. He is a senior travel and skiing. Radical Students: The Old Pacific International, which lecturer at James Cook Uni- Left at Sydney University, has its headquarters in Suva, versity, VMO Defence Force Peter Sarfaty (BA ’50) was published by MUP in Fiji. The Executive Recruiting Centre at in English and Psychology, 2002, has recently returned Director is former Solomon Townsville and Designated joined the Commonwealth to this theme in an article, Islands Ambassador to the Aviation Medical Examiner Acoustic Laboratory in “Student activists at Sydney (DAME) for the Civil Aviation Psychology, later known as UN, Mr Rex Horoi. University 1060-1967: a Safety Authority. Tibor’s Audology; accepted a posting problem of interpretation” Hans W Groenewegen main interests in medicine to Perth, stayed with the published mid-year in The (BA ’59) is a volunteer at are aviation medicine and Acoustic Lab for nine years. History of Education Review. Melbourne community radio musculoskeletal medicine. Took up studies in clinical Alan became a member of station 3MBSA and presents psychology at University of the Order of Australia in the breakfast program Peter Quinn (MBBS ’59, Western Australia, went to 2006 and is a Conjoint Daybreak Classics every DCP ’64, FRCPA ’66) private practice, until 1985 Fellow of the University of Wednesday from 6 to 9am. has had a long career in – taking up studies with Newcastle. He had the sad diagnostic pathology in Murdoch University gradu- task early this year of writing Tibor Thomas Pietzsch hospital and private practice ating January 2007, PhD with an obituary of Jack Redrup, (MBBS ’59) received the in Sydney. Member RAAF thesis “Jacob Bronowski, the his co-editor of Honi Soit Australian Defence Medal specialist reserve – Group compassionate scientist.” in 1946. grapevine

Ian Stuart Collins Master at Maitland Girls’ Wool & Allied Fibres in work in telecommunications (MB, BS ’45) remains in High School, principal at 1951. This research with the for the war effort, but com- practice as a Consulting Karabar High School, CSIRO and after as Professor, pleted an arts degree, study- Physician in Gosford and in Queanbeyan, 1981-84. Textile Physics UNSW, was ing philosophy under the Parramatta, doing medico- Hilma taught at Maitland completed and published in legendary Professor John legal work. He has had a Girls High School 1946-50, 1997 as Mechanical Properties Anderson. After a career in lifelong interest in Ancient casual 1970 to 1981. Our of Keratin Fibres (Wool, telecommunications, Ken Rome and has just published five children are graduates Hairs & Related Fibres). In resumed his involvement in his first historical novel of University of Newcastle. 1954, he worked at Kings philosophy, furthering his entitled Spartianus, which We keep busy with commu- College London for a year postgraduate studies at is concerned with the 3rd nity law work, travelling, under Prof. Maurice Sydney, ANU and Deakin; century AD and the factors gardening and keeping in Wilkins, Nobel Laureate. My leading to the recent publi- leading to Rome’s decline. touch with friends and family. work on DNA testing of the cation of the arresting title, The book is available from suggested structure by x-ray Einstein’s Gospel, a book www.ianscollins.com. Max Feughelman diffraction techniques was with the arresting conclusion (BSc ’42 University given special mention in the that human existence needs Hilma Ellis (Vaughan) Medal, DSc ’76, Nobel Prize lecture by Arthur to be and currently is being (BSc ’44) and Clem Ellis Emeritus Professor) Kornberg in December 1959. accounted for in terms of (DipEd ’45) now retired; Appointed foundation strict universal causality, as married in 1947 and were research member of the Kenneth Garven claimed by Einstein and science teachers in the Mait- newly formed CSIRO (BSc Hons ’41, BA ’44, therefore in terms of the land and Newcastle areas of Division of Physics & MA (ANU) ’91, MIE Aust) non-existence of free will and NSW. Clem became Science Engineering Research of Ken was first called upon to an interventionist deity. ■ sport

Fast boat to China

Sydney University’s elite rowing program could see a host of athletes representing Australia at the Beijing Olympic Games, Graham Croker reports

he Sydney University Boat Club, The successes of the SUBC and the medallist Fergus Pragnell will now formed in 1860, and later joined SUWRC in 2006 – one of their best represent Australia in the senior ranks Tby the Sydney University Women’s years on record – were rewarded at the as part of the coxed pair. Stevenson, Rowing Club, is now one of the elite 2007 nationals with five men and two Ryan, Rabjohns, Hegerty and Pragnell rowing clubs in Australia. That claim women named in the Senior team to will all continue to train out of the AIS. was confirmed following the 2007 compete at World Cups in Austria, The The 2006 female double scull world Australian Rowing Championships at Netherlands and Switzerland, and champion, Brooke Pratley, will not be Nagambie Lakes, Victoria, and the World Championships in Germany. defending her title. With injured partner National Selection Regatta at Penrith, The senior team includes Matt Ryan, Liz Kell unable to compete this season, when 17 SU rowers and two coaches who has again been selected for the Pratley moves to the women’s quad scull. were named in the Senior World Cup men’s eight which finished fourth at last Bronwen Watson has another Australian and Under 23 World Championship year’s World Championships. With him cap after a successful comeback. The crews. “We not only make up the bulk once again is WA’s Jeremy Stevenson, female lightweight rower showed her of the NSW contingent, but as a club who joined SUBC early this year. For determination and skill during the seat we are providing more rowers than the second year running the eight will racing trials. With fellow NSW rower other states,” says SUBC coach Phil be coxed by Marty Rabjohns, former Miranda Bennett, Watson will be part Bourguignon. “Victoria has 14 rowers SUBC coach who has taken up a schol- of the lightweight quad. in the national squad, WA has 10 and arship coaching position at the AIS. SUBC Under 23 rowers showed vast Tasmania has eight. It’s a wonderful Francis Hegerty is part of the all-NSW potential during 2006-07 under the achievement and at least seven of our coxless four that will aim to put an end guidance of Bourguignon, David Rodger, rowers have definite chances of gaining to Great Britain’s winning streak. Alan Bennett and Mark Prater. That has selection for the Beijing Olympics.” World Under 23 gold and silver resulted in Terrence Alfred, Richard Allsop,

The 2006 University of Sydney rowing squad: illustrious descendants of the first students to dip their oars in 1860

34 sydney alumni magazine Edward Boyce, Andrew Conolly, Mitch are students from overseas wanting to Estens, and James Goswell – all from join the program.” SUBC – forming the nucleus of the Many of the rowers are on Sydney The most successful Under 23 men’s eight. Cox will be Toby University Sport Scholarships. year coincided Lister, whose dedication and patience Ironically, the club’s most successful have finally been rewarded. year coincided with the loss of the Linley with the loss of the Bourguignon, who has a wealth of Point Boatshed, destroyed by fire in Linley Pt boatshed international experience and has March 2006. trained several gold medal crews, and “We lost our entire fleet and we have his off-sider Prater, have been named St Ignatius College and its principal coaches of the Under 23 eight. Shane Hogan to thank for allowing us club, state and national championships. Renee Kirby and Charlotte Walters, to run our program from their For the past few years Sydney University gold medallists in the women’s four at Riverview Boatshed while we go about has been the leading competitive rowing 2006’s Under 23 World Championships in re-establishing our own base,” says Noel. club in NSW, completely dominating Belgium, have regained their Australian SUBC is the one of the oldest sporting the 2007 NSW championships. caps. Kirby and Walters showed their Clubs at Sydney University, one of the Bourguignon, the AUS Coach of the diversity over the season by switching five founding clubs of Sydney University Year for 2006, says the coaching staff at between sweeping and sculling. They Sport, and one of the oldest rowing the University is to be congratulated on will be part of the women’s Under 23 clubs in Australia. preparing and guiding so many athletes quad training on the Yarra in Melbourne The Boat Club now runs an elite into the Australian teams. The program under Brenton Terrell. program for men and operates interme- also includes academic support, and And Cameron Girdlestone, former diate and talent identification programs assistance from the colleges and Sydney stroke of the King’s School eight, will based at the women’s boatshed at Glebe. University Sport. move to Huon Rowing Club in Tasmania The program at Lane Cove also caters “Noel Donaldson, the Australian to train under John Driessen as part of for the elite development of the Women’s head coach, says it is the biggest and the men’s Under 23 lightweight four. rowing Club. The men’s and women’s most successful non-institute program Bourguignon says SUBC might have clubs compete as Sydney University in the in Australia,” he says. ■ had another rower in the Under 23 squad but glandular fever ruined Dave Neuhaus’ chances. Senior team to compete at World Cups in Austria, Amsterdam and The club also boasts Elsa O’Hanlon, Switzerland and World Championships in Munich Germany the Australian University Sport Sports- Matt Ryan – AIS-based athlete in the Men’s 8+ woman of the Year, who won the Light- Jeremy Stevenson – AIS-based athlete in the Men’s 8+ weight Single Scull at the 2006 World Marty Rabjohns – AIS-based athlete cox of Men’s 8+ University Championships in Lithuania. Fergus Pragnall – AIS-based athlete in Men’s Coxed Pair SUBC vice-president Chris Noel, who Marty Rabjohns – AIS-based athlete in Men’s Coxed Pair was recently made an Honorary Fellow in recognition of his contribution to the Francis Hegerty – AIS-based athlete in Men’s Coxless Four university, particularly the SUBC, over Brooke Pratley – AIS-based athlete in Women’s Quad Scull the past 40 years, says the success can be put down to a number of factors, Bronwen Watson – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Women’s Lightweight Quad Scull. including the stimulating and supportive working environment for coaches at Under-23 team to compete at Under 23 World Championships SU Sport. in Strathclyde, Scotland “There are also the fitness and condi- tioning programs of Martin Harland, Terrence Alfred – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ which are second to none,” Noel says. Mitch Estens – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ Richard Allsop – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ “The rowers receive excellent strength Edward Boyce – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ and conditioning programs, nutritional Andrew Conolly – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ advice, expert coaching and academic James Goswell – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ counselling. It is a wonderful program Toby Lister – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s 8+ and we’re fortunate to have had great Phil Bourguignon - Coach support from Sydney University Sport Mark Prater – Assistant Coach – TBC and the University. Cameron Girdlestone – Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Men’s “We are considered the top elite devel- Lightweight Coxless Four opment rowing club in Australia with the number of Under 23s we are Renee Kirby - Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Women’s Quad Scull producing. We now have rowers who Charlotte Walters - Lane Cove/SU Sport-based athlete in Women’s Quad Scull.

spring 2007 35 treasure

The marvellous Macleays

Author and journalist Ashley Hay talks about her collaboration with artist Robyn Stacey on Museum, a tribute to the Macleays and their collections © Robyn Stacey 2007

obyn and I began working to- their lives taken over by the act of accu- collections – which William John inher- gether in 2002 when she asked me mulating certain things; as well as the ited on William Sharp’s death in 1865 – Rto write an essay for Herbarium,a development of science through Australia’s to a new level. From 1873 on, he resolved book built around her images from colonial history; recovering stories and to donate them – massively augmented collections held by the National objects that might not always – or ever – from their mainly entomological core Herbarium of NSW at the Royal be in the public’s view or imagination. to include good representations across Botanic Gardens, Sydney. I was thrilled Alexander Macleay was secretary of all areas of natural history – as a teaching to jump into another collection with the Linnean Society in London until collection to the University of Sydney. Robyn when she proposed the Macleay 1825, when he sailed to Australia to He spent the last 18 years of his life Museum as a follow-up. become Colonial Secretary for NSW. He buying specimens, engaging collectors I’ve always loved the richness and the possessed what was later described as who would collect for him and trading imagination in Robyn’s work – even the finest entomological collection of Australian specimens for exotic specimens. before we worked on Herbarium, she’d any gentleman in Europe. (Assembled W. J. Macleay also made bequests to photographed a specimen in the National partly through his own excursions but the University and to the Linnean Society, Herbarium for the cover of my book, mainly by spending up at the auctions published many scientific papers (mainly Gum, and it was a privilege to work with of other gentlemen’s collections.) The identifying and naming new species of her more closely. This time we were Linnean Society offered him space in insects and fish), and materially supported working simultaneously – although their attic to store the collection. Nobody young workers and curators to make Robyn has been shooting items in the expected he would take it with him, but their own contributions to science. collection for more than three years, he did. So from 1826, Europe’s finest The University built the museum for whereas I was really only planning the collection of entomological specimens his collections during the 1880s. The essay during 2006. The still lives she was in Sydney. transfer (there were more than one devised to open the four image sections William Sharp Macleay is the next million entomological specimens alone) in Museum – “Entomology”, “Expedition”, character in the story. Alexander’s eldest began in 1888 and took several years. “Exotics” and “Education” – are exquisite. son, he followed his father in a fascination Many people don’t know about the One is already in the collection of the with natural history, collecting widely Museum and the story of the family, National Gallery in Canberra. (he was posted to Cuba), but also – nor how important its Australian his- Robyn is a very generous artist; she’s a unlike Alexander – working at what we torical collections are. We hope this gift for a writer to work with because might call a more scientific level. He did book tells some of that story while she’s got quite a textual way of talking a lot of work on taxonomy. He was showcasing Robyn’s interpretation of and thinking about her own work, and interested in theory too and came up the collections in her own unique way. she’s interested in the ideas and the with “the Quinary System”, which was a stories that underpin the objects she’s precursor to Darwin’s thinking in terms trying to capture. She’s looking for the of explaining the how and why of the Museum: the Macleays, their collections pieces that stand out in some way, the natural world. and the search for order, by Robyn Stacey aesthetically arresting or unusual; and After Cuba, William followed his family and Ashley Hay (Cambridge University I’m interested in writing about the to Sydney (stopping briefly in London, Press), will be launched by the Chancellor arresting or unusual stories that under- where he met Darwin) and spent the on 7 November. University museums open pin any collection. rest of his life here. A young cousin, Mon-Fri 10am-4.30pm, Sun 12 noon-4pm. We’re both interested in the processes another William (John) Macleay, sailed Admission free; entry fees for some lectures of collection: the passions, the obsessions, with him and it was this Macleay whose and events; ph: 02 9351 2274, the fascinations of the people who have passion (or obsession) took the family’s www.usyd.edu.au/museums. ■

36 sydney alumni magazine