InPrincipio in the beginning

The University of Notre Dame australia magazine Volume 23 - Semester ONE 2012 CONTENTS

From the Vice Chancellor 1

University News 2

Life at Notre Dame – One Day in May 10

Fremantle School of Education celebrates its 20th anniversary 12

Science students advance sustainability in irrigated horticulture 14

Business graduate’s ‘talent and drive’ rewarded 16

Lecturer recognised by peak body 17

World’s longest study of pregnancy and birth cohort 18

National recognition for the Academic Enabling and Support Centre 20 Canon Law scholar appointed 6th Bishop of Toowoomba

Law/Arts student recognised for commitment to Indigenous issues 21

Nursing graduate develops tool to improve patient care 22

Signifi cant research grant for Professor of Palliative Nursing 23

New program for gifted and talented students 24

Partnerships key to graduating excellent physiotherapists 26

Rewarding results for research focus 28

Scholarship provides hope for a better future 29 Exceptional generosity provides opportunities for Theology students

Cover: Bachelor of Nursing student, Kristina Houteas’s One Day in May entry. Photograph is of the fountain located on the Sydney Campus (Broadway). 1 FROM THE VICE CHANCELLOR

On 21 March this year, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, was installed as the sixth Archbishop of Perth. In his inspirational homily, His Grace invited us all “to continually ask [yourself] the question: Where is Jesus in what I am doing?” He encouraged all of us who work in Catholic educational institutions to be motivated by these words: “The greatest challenge facing my school or college, university or seminary, the greatest challenge facing me in my classroom or lecture hall, is to return this place to Christ and return Christ to his rightful place.” These words echo the invitation of all Australian Bishops to us to “contemplate the face of Christ” in this Year of Grace gifted to us.

In the day-to-day reality of life at Notre Dame, there are many times when we might fi nd it diffi cult to see, recognise or acknowledge the Face of Christ. As I sit in meetings, which are sometimes long and occasionally heated, it is more likely that I am battling impatience and frustration than contemplating the Face of Christ. When someone has parked in my car bay, albeit unwittingly, Grace is not the fi rst thing I think of, nor, if truth be told, what I exhibit. For our staff and students, the Face of Christ might appear to be well hidden in those moments when the email system falters, when assignments are due, when marking is due, when disputes arise, during exam weeks, when the processes take too long...

Despite all of these irritations, the truth is that those of us who work in Catholic educational institutions are truly blessed with much Grace. It is not diffi cult to “contemplate the face of Christ” when engaging with people – young and old – who are seeking knowledge, understanding, enlightenment. Teachers and educators at all levels, from primary school to university all understand the beauty of the light bulb moment – that moment when students understand something that had previously eluded them. These moments are pure joy: a moment in which the face of Jesus, the glance of Truth itself, radiates from the students and the teachers in unity.

For us at Notre Dame to accept the invitation of the Australian Bishops and to make our University a place of Grace this year, we need to rise above the temptation towards negativity. We need to resist the temptation to triumph in the negative, resist the urge to assume the worst and abandon the glass half empty approach to life. To assist us in this challenge, we are blessed that we can seek inspiration from Mary, after whom this University is named. Holy Mary, ‘full of Grace’ had a hard and unusual life but kept her eyes always on the face of her Son, sought to follow him and take guidance from him for all daily tasks.

Mary, Seat of Wisdom, Pray for us.

In March 2012, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Professor Celia Hammond Celia Hammond, welcomed Archbishop Barry Hickey and Archbishop-Designate Timothy Costelloe SDB to the Fremantle Campus. 2

UNIVERSITY NEWS

Honorary Doctorate awarded for outstanding contribution For the fi rst time in the University’s was Group Director Medical Services history, the December graduation at St John of God Health Care and ceremonies for the Fremantle from 2009 he has been their Consultant Campus were held at St Mary’s Medical Advisor. Cathedral located in the heart of Professor Michael has been involved the Perth CBD. with the University since 2000, when Over three days, approximately 900 he became a foundation member of the graduands, along with their families and School of Medicine Advisory Board. He academic staff, gathered at the beautiful was appointed Chair of the Advisory and extensively renovated Cathedral. Board and Governor of the University in 2001, and a Director in 2005. Professor As part of the celebrations, Professor Michael has played a pivotal role in the Constantine Agapitos (Con) Michael development of the Medical School. AO, was awarded an Honorary Degree The Honorary Degree was awarded in of Doctor of Laws. recognition of his service to the Medical Professor Michael is a practising profession and to the University. obstetrician and gynaecologist. During the course of his professional career he has worked at the University College London Hospital and King Edward Professor Con Michael with Memorial Hospital for Women where his Honorary Degree. he was Head of Obstetrics between 1991 – 1996. From 2000 to 2009 he

Broome student wins prestigious national teaching scholarship

A mature age Education student “The most important thing for me is In 2011, Ms Davis became the fi rst at the Broome Campus has been that the children in the Kimberley have Indigenous student to win the Vice awarded the highly acclaimed a teacher who lives in their community Chancellor’s Medal in the School of Governor-General’s Indigenous and can act as role model for them. Education for her excellent academic Student Teachers Scholarship for “To have the opportunity to teach in achievement. She also received the Western Australia. Broome and the surrounding Dampier Student of the Year Award at the 2011 Peninsula is extremely special as I am Kullari NAIDOC Awards held in Broome. Sharon Davis, currently in the third surrounded by my people and my culture year of her Bachelor of Education K-7 – two things very close to my heart.” degree, said she was humbled at being announced as WA’s scholarship recipient. The scholarship is provided annually to one Aboriginal and Torres Strait She travelled from Broome to accept Islander student from each Australian the scholarship from the Governor- state through the Federal Government’s General of Australia, Ms Quentin Bryce Department of Education, Employment AC CVO, in Canberra in June. and Workplace Relations.

Ms Davis, a Bardi woman from the Each scholarship is worth up to Kimberley region of Western Australia, $25,000 per annum for a maximum currently juggles her full-time study period of four years and aims to commitments with raising a family. provide fi nancial support for student “I am extremely honoured and teachers in their progression to future privileged to receive this prestigious employment. One of the award’s scholarship; it means so much to me objectives is to increase the number and my family,” Ms Davis said. of quality Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers in Australian schools. Sharon Davis accepts the Governor- General’s Indigenous Student Teachers Scholarship for Western Australia from Ms Quentin Bryce AC CVO. Photo courtesy of Government House, Canberra. Dean of the School of Medicine, Sydney, Professor Christine Bennett, gives Nicola Roxon and Tanya Plibersek a lesson in CPR during the offi cial tour of the new clinical school with the Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia Hammond; Mercy Hospital CEO, Stephen Cornelissen and Chairman, Julien O’Connell.

Government invests $11 million in new Victorian medical clinical school

Federal Health Minister, Tanya Ms Plibersek said the Gillard “The new School further strengthens Plibersek, offi cially opened Government had invested $11.2 million Notre Dame’s presence in Victoria and the University’s purpose-built to construct the School, which will will make a valuable contribution to the Melbourne Clinical School at support the education, training and medical needs of the local community. Werribee, Victoria, in February. clinical placement of up to 80 Notre The building will also support the clinical Dame medical students. education unit at Werribee Mercy Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia Hospital which provides training for Hammond, hosted a visit by Ms Plibersek “This is a cutting edge Medical School, nurses and allied health professionals,” and the Federal Attorney-General, Nicola which includes teaching, training and Professor Hammond said. Roxon, to the latest addition to the research facilities that will play an University’s medical facilities. important role in training our future The 2,145m2 School, located on the medical workforce,” Ms Plibersek said. Werribee Mercy Hospital campus, includes a lecture theatre, tutorial rooms, She said the School was delivered clinical skills area, student common through the Government’s Health room, dry laboratory spaces, offi ce and Hospital Fund—the single largest space, library and consulting rooms. ever investment in national health The Victorian Government provided the infrastructure, with $4.5 billion allocated land for the School, valued at to 148 projects so far. $2 million. “By locating clinical teaching facilities in Notre Dame’s medical school outer Melbourne, the Government has curriculum focusses on ambulatory ensured Victorians are given greater models of care and the multi-skilling access to a locally trained health of staff in teams; the building design workforce which understands the therefore includes teaching rooms needs of the region,” Ms Plibersek said. based on ambulatory and rehabilitation The Vice Chancellor said the new School medicine and multidisciplinary skills building demonstrated Notre Dame’s training rooms. commitment to producing outstanding, ethical and caring doctors in the most up-to-date facilities. Kulkarriya Community School student, Yvette Cox, being tutored for her Certifi cate III in Education Support by ITAS tutor, Kathryn Santospirito.

Broome Campus attracts national grant for research project In August 2011, the Australian Government lifelong learning and should be accessible for all people,” announced a $220,000 grant for the University’s stressed Mr Gorring. Nulungu Research Institute’s (NRI) research The most recent addition to the team is Senior Researcher, project: The transition of Aboriginal and Torres Sue Thomas. Ms Thomas brings to the University extensive Strait Islander students into higher education. experience as a teacher and principal in Western Australian The project, which commenced in September remote community schools. Most recently she has been working 2011 and will conclude in early 2013, is a national, with well-known Indigenous educator, Dr Chris Sarra, at the multi-disciplinary, collaborative investigation with Stronger Smarter Institute, Queensland University of Technology. academics on the project team from Notre Dame’s three campuses, from Southern Cross University Ms Thomas said numerous reports focus on layers of and from the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous disadvantage experienced by many Aboriginal and Torres Tertiary Education. Strait Islander people across the country. Chief Investigator and Deputy Vice Chancellor, Broome, “The disparity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Professor Lyn Henderson-Yates, explains the signifi cance educational outcomes are clearly cause for concern. This project of the project: distinguishes itself from what we already know by capturing models of success and identifying the attributes that are “Given the low numbers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait necessary to lead to successful transitions,” says Ms Thomas. Islander students enrolled in university studies, understanding transition issues confronting them is paramount in fi nding “The project’s Literature Review reveals that targeted programs, solutions to this ongoing and complex situation,” Professor where institutions begin relationships with individual students Henderson-Yates said. and communities within their region as early as possible, achieve more long-lasting and benefi cial outcomes.” “This project will play an important role in informing the government, education providers, students and communities, about what enables and constrains their transition into higher education. NRI is privileged to play a leading role in exploring THE TEAM and reporting on this vital area of research. The University of Notre Dame Australia “An important criteria for all research undertaken by Nulungu Chief Investigators – Professor Patrick Dodson, Broome is that the methodology of collecting data and the process Campus; Professor Margie Maher, Sydney Campus; of disseminating research is of value and is accessible to Professor Lyn Henderson-Yates, Broome Campus. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.” Project team members – Professor Neil Drew, Mr Bruce Project Manager and Research Coordinator for Nulungu, Gorring and Ms Sue Thomas, Broome Campus; Mr Steve Mr Bruce Gorring, also emphasises the importance of Kinnane, Professor Keith McNaught, Fremantle Campus; the project and the impact higher education can have on Associate Professor Kevin Watson, Sydney Campus. individuals and their communities. Southern Cross University “The benefi ts of higher education can impact on issues Dr Judith Wilkes and Ms Katie Wilson such as poverty, social and cultural exclusion, and health Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education and wellbeing. Higher education promotes opportunities for Ms Terri Hughes 5

Internationally renowned philosopher Dedication to preserve and scholar presents Notre Dame’s buildings recognised Shakespeare, Religion and Following the lecture on the Fremantle Identity and Law, Philosophy Campus, Professor Finnis chaired a Recently retired from the and Immigration Policy were the lively discussion with members of the University, Mr Terence Craig, was two topics of public discussions audience about national and international formally acknowledged in February with world renowned scholar, immigration and social policies. for his exemplary service to Notre Dame when he was presented Professor John Finnis, when he Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia Hammond, with the Distinguished Service visited the Fremantle and Sydney said she was delighted to welcome Medal. The medal is awarded by campuses in First Semester. Professor Finnis to the University. the Vice Chancellor in recognition The Professor of Law and Legal “Professor Finnis has conducted the of an outstanding and signifi cant Philosophy at the University College, whole of his professional life in public - in commitment to the University. Oxford, has taught Law at a number his teachings, in his writings and in his Mr Craig joined the University in 1996, of universities including the University willingness to defend the positions he has working closely over the years with the of Notre Dame (Indiana) Law School explored,” Professor Hammond said. where he is the Biolchini Family former Vice Chancellor, Dr Peter Tannock, Professor of Law. “For those of us who haven’t been University architects, Marcus Collins fortunate enough to have been taught by Architects, and builder, W Fairweather The discussions were hosted by the Professor Finnis, we have nonetheless and Sons. University’s Centre for Faith, Ethics and had the opportunity to read and study “...this was a relationship that would Society, and attracted members of the his many written works – all of which forge the aesthetic identity of the judiciary, legal professionals, academics have demonstrated his incredible intellect University. Terry Craig, Peter Tannock, and Notre Dame staff and students. and his groundbreaking thinking in law, Marcus Collins and the late Bill Fairweather In his discussion on Law, Philosophy bioethics and political philosophy. formed a quartet of expertise that would be and Immigration Policy, Professor “He has shown himself to be one of the singularly responsible for the extraordinary Finnis challenged the contemporary fi nest philosophical and legal minds of capital development of the University’s argument that liberal immigration laws his generation.” campuses in Fremantle, Broome and effecting for those seeking to move Sydney,” explained the Vice Chancellor, between nation-states are the most Professor Finnis was conferred an Professor Celia Hammond, to the special just. Instead, he argued that rigorous Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the gathering celebrating his achievement. immigration policies are fundamentally University in 2011. necessary for any nation-state to “Through his industry, the ‘Notre Dame tradition’ was borne, of inheriting old preserve its economic and political Professor John Finnis delivering the sovereignty. This, he concluded, was an Michael O’Dea Oration following buildings and bringing them to new life entirely reasonable approach to take. the conferral of his Honorary through a careful process of adaption Degree in December 2011. and restoration.”

Mr Craig moved to Sydney in the early days of the development of the Campus, overseeing the establishment of both the Broadway and Darlinghurst sites. His presence ensured the continuation of the highest possible standards of facilities being provided for staff and students in an attractive and high quality environment.

Terry Craig with Vice Chancellor Emeritus, Dr Peter Tannock and Architect, Marcus Collins. 6

Celebrating exceptional achievements The exceptional achievements of staff and students on Notre Dame’s Fremantle and Sydney campuses in 2011 were celebrated at the University’s annual awards ceremonies held in April. The ceremonies, which were attended by staff, students and their families, board members, scholarship donors, and members of the Notre Dame community, profi led the winning recipients and shared their personal contributions which had won them recognition.

“It is my hope that this scholarship will relieve some fi nancial pressure for her and for future recipients,” Mr Honner said.

“It is often the case that country students are not only faced with not having close family to support them while they study, but are also challenged to fi nd suitable accommodation for the duration of their studies.

Chancellor, Terence Tobin QC, Sophie Dixon and John Honner. “I am delighted to be able to support Ms Dixon in her education. She is a worthy recipient of the Clem and Rita New perpetual scholarship for the Fremantle Campus Honner Perpetual Scholarship.” The University’s awards ceremonies The purpose of the scholarship is to are an opportunity to acknowledge assist a student from regional Western In memory of his late son Justin, Mr Honner the recipients of Commencing Student Australia who wishes to commence has also funded the Justin John Honner Scholarships. These scholarships are their undergraduate studies in the Scholarship - a three-year undergraduate awarded to commencing undergraduate School of Nursing and Midwifery on the Nursing scholarship for students living students who have demonstrated Fremantle Campus. in the State’s central South West. outstanding academic achievement The inaugural Clem and Rita Honnor Notre Dame’s Early Offer Program on in Year 12 and exceptional personal Perpetual Scholarship was awarded the Fremantle Campus gives secondary qualities and community involvement. to Penrhos College graduate, Sophie schools the opportunity to nominate A new perpetual scholarship was Dixon. Ms Dixon is originally from their students for tertiary studies at the initiated this year on the Fremantle Narembeen, 300km east of Perth. She University. Nominations are received from Campus. Mr John Honner, a retired was a boarder at Penrhos College and private and government secondary farmer from Narrogin and a long and was nominated by the College for Notre schools throughout Western Australia. distinguished benefactor to Notre Dame, Dame’s Early Offer program. Ms Dixon donated $100,000 in 2011 to establish will be studying the Bachelor of Nursing an endowed scholarship in honour of and the Pre-Medicine Certifi cate. his parents, Clem and Rita Honner.

University Medal 2011 Recipients: Fremantle Campus The University Medal is awarded Michelle Davis annually on the Fremantle and Bachelor of Biomedical Science Sydney campuses to the highest Sydney Campus achieving undergraduate for the Megan Downing previous year using all grades from Bachelor of Medicine/ their course of study. Bachelor of Surgery (Honours) Michelle Davis Megan Downing

Vale to three signifi cant members of Since the last edition of In Principio, the University has the Notre Dame Community been saddened by the loss of three men who have each been wonderful and generous supporters to its mission.

Dr Glen Coorey 1932-2012 Dr Coorey joined the University’s Board of Governors in 2005. As a member of the Sydney medical community, he was involved in the establishment of the School of Medicine in Sydney. Dr Coorey made a signifi cant contribution to the School, generously giving of his money, time and advice in assisting its development.

Dr Glen Coorey Fr Kevin McKelson SAC Mr Michael Wright 7

Acknowledging outstanding staff Farewell addresses delivered by outstanding students Initiated by the Vice Chancellor in 2011, the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in University Teaching and Learning seeks to actively promote, recognise and reward In what has become a highlight of excellence in teaching practices and learning outcomes in their different forms graduation ceremonies across all three across the University’s campuses. campuses, the highest achieving students are invited to give farewell addresses. Staff are nominated by Executive Deans to be appraised by an advisory panel which then makes their recommendations to the Vice Chancellor. Highest achieving students for 2011 Recipients of the Vice Chancellor’s Award for 2011 Broome Campus Outstanding Commitment to University Teaching Janelle Walford – Bachelor of Education Associate Professor Michael Wan, Head of Assessment, School of Medicine, Sydney (Kindergarten – Year 7) For his role in the design, delivery and assessment of the Medicine curriculum and Fremantle Campus his involvement in institutional benchmarking and accreditation standards. Johannes (Justin) Bolhuis – Bachelor of Ms Fiona Farringdon, Assistant Dean, School of Health Sciences, Fremantle Education (Primary) with High Distinction Mr Duncan Picknoll, Senior Lecturer, School of Health Sciences, Fremantle Victoria Camp – Bachelor of Nursing For their dedication and excellence in undergraduate and early career teaching with Distinction respectively. Michelle Davis - Bachelor of Initiatives that Enhance Student Learning Biomedical Science Mr Paul Rycroft, Lecturer, School of Health Sciences, Fremantle Gemma Ellis – Bachelor of Laws (Honours) For the implementation and development of the refl ective process in undergraduate Gemma Thomson – Bachelor of Commerce Health and Physical Education students on the Fremantle Campus. Anthony Wong – Bachelor of Human Ms Jane Mangano, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of Success Now and Resource Management One2One Services, Academic Enabling and Support Centre, Fremantle. Sydney Campus For her work in developing and implementing a pilot intervention to support at-risk Claire Devonport – Bachelor of Arts students and students re-entering the University’s Academic Enabling and Support Centre on the Fremantle Campus. Megan Downing – Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery, First Class Honours Dr Melissa Langdon, Senior Lecturer, School of Arts and Sciences, Fremantle Aimee Martel - Bachelor of Education Dr Justine Maldon, Sessional Tutor, School of Arts and Sciences, Fremantle (Primary) with Distinction Dr Sandra Nasr, Lecturer, School of Arts and Sciences, Fremantle For the development of a new curriculum for AL100 - Academic Writing, Simon Quinn – Bachelor of Nursing Communication and Research to address fi rst year learning needs on the Fremantle Campus.

Professor Hammond refl ected: “Each recipient has special gifts and talents; but it’s what you do with them and how you use them that are really important. We are not celebrating the talents that have been granted to you, we are celebrating what you have done with them.”

A family affair - Justin Bolhuis’ parents, wife and fi ve sons celebrate his academic success.

Fr Kevin McKelson SAC 1926-2011 Mr Michael Wright 1937-2012 Fr McKelson was a former staff member and great friend to Mr Wright was a committed supporter of the University from Notre Dame. In his time serving on the Broome Campus, his 1995. He was a Governor of the University from 1996 to roles included Campus Chaplain and lecturer in Theology. 2006 and, after stepping down from the Board, continued to He was an expert in Indigenous languages and culture and his be interested and involved in all of the University’s activities. knowledge was invaluable for the Campus. He was awarded He was generous in giving his time, sound advice and an Honorary Doctorate by the University in 2003 for his service fi nancial benefaction. to Aboriginal language and culture in Western Australia. 8

New book launched on Catholic Bioethics “The Church may not dictate to the state…but She to explain to the people around us what we’re doing. must always be a voice for the voiceless, including Bishop Anthony spells out the cases for the basics of our the voiceless unborn and sick and dying.” Most moral position,” Cardinal Pell said. Reverend Bishop Anthony Fisher OP “There are moral truths; there is such a thing as universal The Sydney Campus was the location which Bishop Anthony human dignity. He defends explicitly all innocent life. He Fisher chose to present his new book Catholic Bioethics for a speaks very usefully of the different levels of responsibility in New Millennium in January. this confused age of radically diminished culpability.”

Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Hayden Ramsay, Cardinal Pell and Bishop Anthony both expressed their faith welcomed guests to the launch. Guests included in healthcare that has done much good and has the potential representatives of the Church, Parliament, Catholic and state to do so much more in the future. hospitals, educational institutes, the law, Catholic and social Bishop Anthony said he hoped his book would serve as a services, the Knights of Malta and of the Order of Jerusalem catalyst for discussion of some of the most pressing issues of and Notre Dame staff and students. His Eminence, Cardinal our age surrounding human life. George Pell, offi cially launched the book, praising Bishop Anthony for the book’s coherent arguments. “The Church proposes a wisdom received from God, as well as from the best of human reason, and which drives her He said the book would go a long way in providing modern faithful who are themselves leaders and voters, doctors and society with an explanation of the Catholic stance on patients,” Bishop Anthony said. bioethical issues. “Dignity, life, are dimensions of real fl esh and blood human “This book is a wonderful contribution in the struggle to beings; human beings who matter. Indeed, matter very recover Catholic conscience and authority,” said Cardinal Pell. much. That’s what bioethics is about: to propose as our “Bioethics is a vitally important area in which the tectonic plates starting point that every human being should be reverenced, that underlie our civilisation are rubbing up against one another.” protected and assisted to fl ourish. It is not some rigid moral absolutism or abstract ancient formula, but about love for His Eminence suggested advancement in medical technology humanity, and about Grace.” has created new moral questions for our age and demands fresh answers.

“The Bible is not enough. The Church from a very early age has…recognised we need an intellectual framework The Most Reverend Bishop Fisher OP autographed copies of his book at the launch. 9

St Benedict’s Church 2012

St Benedict’s celebrates 150th anniversary In February 2012, the Parish of St Benedict hosted celebrations for the 150th anniversary of its consecration. His Eminence, Cardinal George Pell, and the Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency, Most Reverend Giuseppe Lazzarotto, together with bishops and priests of the Archdiocese led a Solemn Pontifi cal Mass to commemorate the anniversary of the oldest consecrated Catholic Church in Australia. St Benedict’s was consecrated on 24 February 1862, with the ceremony led by Archbishop John Bede Polding, Australia’s fi rst Roman Catholic Archbishop. The High Mass went for just under eight hours and parishioners paid a fee of 10 shillings each to attend.

The Parish has played a central role in the spiritual, educational and social life of Sydney residents. In the mid-19th Century, the Church property was home to a girls’ school run by the Good Samaritan Sisters and a boys’ school run by the Marist Brothers. In 1926, St Benedict’s Hall was completed. It would be used for many balls and concerts by its parishioners whose numbers were second only to those of St Mary’s Cathedral.

In 2005, Notre Dame was proud to join the history of the Parish when it established its Sydney Campus on the St Benedict’s site, restoring the Church and its surrounding buildings. Today, St Benedict’s counts among its many parishioners the staff and students of Notre Dame, and the Church forms a central part of the daily life of the University.

The history of St Benedict’s is richly intertwined with the growth of the Catholic Church in Sydney, as well as the fl ourishing of the city itself. 10

LIFE AT NOTRE DAME - ONE DAY IN MAY

On any one day, Notre Dame students and staff are engaged in a variety of activities across the country. It was the vision of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia Hammond, to capture the true and authentic essence of daily life at Notre Dame. Her vision inspired the One Day in May concept. On Wednesday 30 May 2012, individuals across all campuses were invited to capture the ‘real’ Notre Dame through photographs or video footage. The creative brief - The images and footage should capture as many aspects of the single day as possible but must all be authentic. No staged set- ups are required. Light and movement should be natural to increase the authenticity.

The outcome was a wonderful variety of great images and footage displaying One Day in May at Notre Dame. We have chosen just a few to share in In Principio. To see more, go to www.nd.edu.au/one-day-in-may.

12 FREMANTLE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY

“I came to the fl edgling university on Governor, Sir Frances Burt, a two-year secondment. I worked with opening the College of Brother Pat Carey, a Christian Brother Education. who led the inaugural Graduate Diploma program. One defi ning “The Governors confi rmed that the University will commence moment in the School’s development was a small independent Australian university of high standards when former Dean, Professor Jennifer with a commitment to excellence in research and teaching... Nicol, negotiated with the University’s partnering schools the fi rst three colleges will be established by 1995 with the (drawn from the Catholic, Independent and Government College of Education commencing in 1992. systems) a dramatic increase in the amount of time the University’s student teachers would spend in the classroom The Catholic Education Commission and Provincial over the four years of their training – signifi cantly more Bishops of the Catholic Church have declared the College than in the courses offered in other institutions – ensuring of Education to be a priority. The College of Education the Notre Dame graduates are truly ‘classroom-ready’ will prepare teachers for the particular needs of Catholic from the day they take up their fi rst appointments.” schools.” In Principio, June 1990. Professor Tony Ryan 20th Anniversary celebrations Inaugural Dean, 1992-1994. Alumni, governors, donors, advisory board members of the School of Education, staff of the Catholic Education Offi ce (CEO) and members of Western Australia’s education community gathered with past and present staff in May for “The attraction for me – a non- a special celebration to mark the 20th Anniversary of the Catholic – in contributing to School of Education, Fremantle. the establishment of the College Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia Hammond, welcomed of Education was its faith-based guests emphasising that the evening was an important approach to teacher education. opportunity to publicly recognise the signifi cant support the For, at its best, education is neither School had received during its development. She particularly student-centred, nor discipline- acknowledged the longstanding relationship with the CEO; centred; it is inward-centred. Faith-based education the Knights of the Southern Cross and Western Australian operates from the conviction that there is always school partners. one other in the classroom—the Inward Teacher, who waits to be found in every human being.” In his address, Dean of the School, Professor Michael O’Neill, noted that the relationship with schools was crucial in the Dr Ann Zubrick ongoing training of future teachers, particularly as pre-service Former Dean of the College of Education and teachers from Notre Dame undertake 32 weeks of school Professor of Psychology and Education, 1994-1997. experience through the course of their degree. He also spoke about the growth of the School.

“The University commenced operations in 1992, after a year of course planning, with 40 degree holders entering a My choice to complete my Diploma one-year Graduate Diploma in Education, and a further 30 in Education at Notre Dame was qualifi ed teachers beginning a two-year Master of Education. a result of my desire to work in the “The School now boasts 1000 undergraduates enrolled on Catholic school system. The program the Fremantle and Broome campuses along with over 300 was rigorous and challenging but Master of Education students as well as a signifi cant number prepared me for the beginning of of Doctoral candidates,” explained Professor O’Neill. my teaching career. My time at the university inspired me to excel in my fi eld, teaching “We have been very pleased to see that the School of across different disciplines and to attain leadership Education on our Sydney Campus has also been a great positions. My love of learning has continued and I success with current enrolment of around 1300 students.” am currently completing a Masters in Education: A highlight of the evening was when Vice Chancellor Emeritus Leadership and Management, back at Notre Dame! and former Dean of the School, Dr Peter Tannock, shared Ms Debra Graham Powell some of the history of the School with the gathering. Diploma in Education, Secondary, 1993. 13

An excerpt from Dr Tannock’s speech.

“The School of Education was the foundation school of the University and in many ways the founding start for Notre ceDame. in the Itmid-1980s, was established that towith underpin the belief the futureby those of whoCatholic worked education, in the Catholic Education Offi we needed to do something about the training and preparation of teachers and of leaders to work in Catholic schools. This was the genesis of the School and the University. ce. I talked about the problem Archbishop William Foley I had recently moved from a senior position with the Commonwealth in Canberra to take up the position of Director of the Western Australian Catholic Education Offi of training for the special mission of Catholic schools with the late Archbishop Bill (William) Foley, a wonderful man. As we were not able to access Federal Government funding, I suggested that we start a private institution of higher education serving the Catholic Church, particularly in the training of teachers. Archbishop Foley said, “If you can do it, do it.” So we did! nancial. We also had good times, Br Pat Carey CFC Many diffi cult days followed. Between those early decisions and the opening of the School, we had all sorts of problems and challenges, some political, many fi particularly the involvement of the University of Notre Dame in the United States. The fi rst leader of the School was Tony Ryan. Tony had a senior academic position at Curtin University. He and I were friends and we had been talking about the training of teachers and leaders for Catholic schools for some time. He was very interested and committed to doing something about it and agreed to come on board for a two year secondment. rst graduate group. When Tony Br Jack Dwyer We also had the good fortune to attract Brother Pat Carey who had been Principal of Kolbe Catholic FMS College. He was a very able educationist, who produced a very good fi Ryan returned to Curtin we did not have a Dean, so I agreed to do it until a wonderful Marist brother, Brother Jack Dwyer, a former Provincial Leader of the Marists in Australia, came to take up the Deanship. I believe the success of the School has been due to the excellent staff, generous donors, tolerant bankers, support of major institutions and religious congregations. I am very happy with what the School of Education has achieved over the years. I have loved watching the young teachers walking across the stage at graduation. The mission (of the School) Dr Peter Tannock remains as profound and as important now as it ever was. We are preparing our teachers and leaders to oversee and drive the propagation of the faith. This is crucial to the future of our Church.”

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e y Fremantle Campus to help education students who are experiencing fi nancial diffi culty. The fund will provide a one-off grant based on an assessment of the student’s needs.

The School of Education is seeking the support of alumni, parents and friends to reach an endowment goal of $500,000 which will contribute to the fund.

“Our goal is to ensure that students from all circumstances have the opportunity to complete a Notre Dame education,” explains Professor Richard Berlach, coordinator of the new fund.

To make a donation to the fund or for more information, please contact the School of Education, Fremantle on 08 9433 0150 or email [email protected] Checking the monitoring equipment 14 in a potato crop at Binningup.

MASTER OF SCIENCE STUDENTS ADVANCE SUSTAINABILITY IN IRRIGATED HORTICULTURE Water is essential to agriculture and irrigated agriculture is a major user of stored water in south-western Australia. Vegetable farms in the Myalup–Binningup area near Bunbury rely on the underlying aquifer to sprinkler-irrigate crops of potato, carrot and onion during both winter and summer. In recent years there has been a high incidence of either complete crop failure or major losses in crop yield of 30-50% during summer. This occurs even though the sprinkler water has a relatively consistent salt content throughout the year.

Under the supervision of Senior Research Fellow and Adjunct the three ponds is 300 metres long, 16 metres wide and 4.5 Professor Tim Meagher, Master of Science students, Eric Law metres deep. and James Dornan, are completing innovative research to fi nd The ponds are approximately a kilometre apart and effectively the answer to why the crops are failing. They believe that it is provide an inspection window into the upper layers of the a great opportunity to be involved in sustainability research water table aquifer. This enables the innovative component and also to have the chance to contribute to a new line of of James’ research. Movement of water through an aquifer post graduate science research at Notre Dame. is usually estimated from calculation of the gradient in the From the outset of their research project they suspected water table in relation to the porosity of the sediment. This that salt content from sprinkler water was accumulating necessarily assumes homogeneity in the aquifer sediment. in the root zone in the summer crops. Eric is investigating However, the ponds facilitate an inspection of micro scale the alteration of sprinkler water as it is delivered through the movement and heterogeneity in the aquifer. The results air and its subsequent concentration in the crop’s soil-water obtained to date indicate that modeling greatly oversimplifi es by evapotranspiration. James is investigating both the the reality of water movement. The research will have replenishment and movement of the groundwater in the upper substantial implications for aquifer management. layers of the water table aquifer that is beneath the crops. Although the water in each of the ponds remains slightly The failure of summer crops grown by Beta Farms Pty Ltd, different in its salt content, each pond has remained remarkably a commercial vegetable producer at Binningup, has caused consistent in salinity over recent years. In general terms the major concern because there is no shortage of water for water is in the order of 1000 parts per million of dissolved sprinkler irrigation and the water table is only a few metres salts. This is toward the upper level of acceptability for below the ground surface. The farm’s particular location is sustainable irrigated vegetable production. It becomes critical also helpful to this research because it was found early in the in the Binningup area because of the high evaporation rates. program that, while there is a regular seasonal variation in The soil in which the crops are planted is a uniform veneer of the height of the underlying water table, there is little variation coarse, well-drained sand that is 0.5 – 1.0 metres in thickness. between years of average and low rainfall. So it is not the This soil overlies what is commonly referred to as the Coastal availability of water for crops that is limiting; it is the use and Limestone. The surface 40 centimetres of soil is enriched modifi cation of the water. by compost material that has been rotary hoed in from a The irrigation water at Beta Farms does not come from bores. combination of cover crops and the residue of previous natural It is pumped from three large box-shaped ponds that have vegetation. The humic layer is underlain by the course yellow been excavated into the water table in the coastal limestone sandy sediment often referred to as the Cottesloe Soil. aquifer. The reason for this is that it enables taking the upper An array of Department of Water monitoring bores surrounds layer of the aquifer which is less salty than the water at depth. the property and there is a nearby online Department of The limestone is very porous but does not collapse as soaks Agriculture and Food weather station that provides the in sand do when they are pumped at high rates. The largest of 15 complete range of agricultural weather parameters. These is insuffi cient to rinse this accumulating salt from the root monitoring resources provide both instantaneous and zone of vegetable crops. The salt in soil water during summer long-term recording of factors such as ground water level, routinely reaches levels known to signifi cantly reduce crop humidity, evaporation, soil temperature, air temperature, solar yield. In late summer it regularly reaches crop failure levels. radiation and wind speed, together with rainfall. The research suggests that the rinsing of salts from soil- The hydrology experiments undertaken for the research have water depends on the intensity and duration of rainfall focused on short-term changes in water level in the ponds and events, not on the overall rainfall. Thus some winters that the array of monitoring bores. These have been complemented are considered to be “wet” do not adequately rinse salt from by measurements of both the speed and direction of water crop soil because crop evapotranspiration is keeping pace movement in the upper four metres of the water table. The with rainfall. Similarly, avoidance of crop failure during the water velocity has been measured by a combination of summer months is related to the serendipitous occurrence of tracking drogues and the installation of an ultra-sensitive an infrequent summer downpour. acoustic water current logger. The results provide new Showing that groundwater fl ows in the upper levels of the insights into water movement in the coastal limestone aquifer. coastal limestone aquifer are not homogenous is a signifi cant The results are different from those routinely provided by fi nding. The speed and direction of the groundwater in theoretical models upon which there has been much reliance. the ponds has been measured and is quite different to The experiments into water use by the crops has been predictions obtained by routine computer modeling. facilitated by the installation of soil moisture probes that These innovative and practical projects demonstrate the record the moisture content of the soil during vegetable importance of the collaborative research between Notre production. Moisture sensors record each 15 minutes at 10 Dame and external organisations and the broader community. centimetre intervals down the soil profi le. Each of these crop They additionally demonstrate the pragmatic analytical skills test sites has an automatic rainfall logger that instantaneously developed by graduates of the University’s Science program. measures sprinkler water and rainfall to within 0.1 of a millimetre. Thus the applied water is tracked through the Their research fi ndings have local importance to Beta Farms soil profi le. The drying sequence is logged and the ambient and horticultural crops grown in the Myalup and Binningup weather conditions are recorded. area. However, it may have wider application to irrigated horticulture on the Swan Coastal In addition to this, soil samples Plain and may also cause some have been taken at 10 centimetre rethinking of garden watering regimes intervals down the soil profi le and in suburban Perth. the salt content of this soil moisture, together with the moisture content, The project site and logistic support, has been calculated. These data including chemical analysis, is have been calibrated against the soil provided by Beta Farms. Data moisture loggers that have been set logging units to monitor water levels to record at 15 minute intervals from and water velocity in the aquifer, planting to harvest. Crops have been together with loggers to monitor monitored in both summer and winter. soil moisture and water application, have been funded by the Fremantle The percolation rate and the Port Authority through their evaporation rate of sprinkler irrigation Fremantle Ports Science Research as it travels through the air, and its Scholarship. This scholarship is subsequent evapotranspiration in awarded to students undertaking the crop, has been recorded against scientifi c research in the School of prevailing weather conditions that Arts and Sciences at Notre Dame. are measured at the crop site and by the adjacent weather station. A profi le showing carrot growth adjacent to a soil-moisture data logger. It also Measurements show that there is illustrates the distinctive humic layer above the well-drained yellow Cottesloe Sand. substantial evaporation between the sprinkler head and the ground. Eric and James installing a water level data Evaporation varies in response to logger in a research pond at Beta Farms. the combined ambient conditions of temperature, wind, humidity and sunlight strength. This can result in salinity increases of the sprinkler water of 15%-35% before being applied to the crop. The crops then further increase soil water salinity by evapotranspiration. It is found that water from routine sprinkler application during summer 16

BUSINESS GRADUATE’S ‘TALENT AND DRIVE’ REWARDED

A 2008 graduate of the School of Business, Sydney, has received the coveted New South Wales Business Chamber’s 2011 Young Business Person of the Year Award.

James Griffi n was awarded the accolade for his role Professor Hayden Ramsay, Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor, as founding partner of SR7, a provider of social media said the award recognises Mr Griffi n’s talent and drive. intelligence, research, strategy development and execution “In a few short years, James has created a company that has to businesses worldwide. fl ourished in an international market with the Commonwealth “Receiving recognition for my effort over the past few years is Government, Stockland and KPMG among its clients. His gratifying; however, it is the recognition of this hard work by success is extraordinary. my peers in the business community that means the most,” “It is essential that we continue to identify the innovation he said. and entrepreneurship of young Australians, who are the “The NSW Business Chamber is the largest business custodians of our economic future,” Professor Ramsay said. chamber in Australia with over 8,000 members, so to get a Mr Griffi n said the staff and curriculum at Notre Dame played nod of the head from them is a good feeling.” an important role in preparing him for the business world.

“ Notre Dame pushes students to think freely, to see the bigger picture and hone critical thinking abilities. If it wasn’t for Notre Dame, I wouldn’t have joined the dots to get where I am today.”

James Griffi n with Mike Baird MP, NSW Treasurer and Member for Manly. 17

LECTURER RECOGNISED BY PEAK BODY

Coordinator of the University’s Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation course, Duncan Picknoll, has been recognised for his signifi cant contribution to the outdoor recreation industry by Outdoors WA.

Mr Picknoll received the Outdoors WA Peak Body Achiever “Theoretical, practical and environmental awareness are core Award 2011 for his dedication and commitment to both components of the Outdoor Recreation program. Students higher learning and the professional advancement of the involved in the course are immersed in the facilitation of Outdoors sector in Western Australia. camp-craft, group leadership and outdoor pursuits such as roping and kayaking, while acquiring valuable skills such as This award follows his success last year when he was named wilderness fi rst aid,” Professor Trengove said. the Outdoor Education Lecturer of the Year at the 2011 West Australian Outdoor Recreation Industry Awards. Earlier this Mr Picknoll said he has always had a very clear picture year, Mr Picknoll received a Vice Chancellor’s Award for his of what skills Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation graduates outstanding commitment to university teaching. should possess and was grateful for the support of many key organisations, schools and individuals who have assisted in With a passion for producing highly-skilled, ethical and the development of the program. practical students ready to enter the Outdoors sector, Mr Picknoll was integral to the establishment of an outdoor “Graduating students have many career options. They can education program at Notre Dame. become outdoor leaders and work in outdoor education, adventure tourism, corporate adventure training and other Newly appointed Dean of Health Sciences, Professor community organisations. With the inclusion of a Diploma of Naomi Trengove, said the Outdoors WA award was an Education, students have the opportunity to teach outdoor important acknowledgement. education in secondary schools,” Mr Picknoll said.

“This award is wonderful recognition of our staff by the peak body for the Outdoor Industry. Duncan has done an outstanding job developing a unique course that produces graduates in high demand within the outdoor and ecotourism industries.”

Professor Naomi Trengove

Senior Lecturer, Duncan Picknoll.

For more information about the Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation degree and other courses in the School of Health Sciences at Notre Dame call (08) 9433 0533. 18

WORLD’S LONGEST STUDY OF PREGNANCY AND BIRTH COHORT

From 1989 through to 1991, 2900 expectant activity and physical fi tness into the study. These data have Western Australian mothers enrolled into what since been collected at follow up surveys and are of signifi cant has become one of the world’s longest studies interest to many research groups nationally and internationally. of a pregnancy and birth cohort. As a result of the research by the RAINE STUDY, more than The RAINE STUDY is a unique research project. Over the 20 different research groups have been formed with over past 18 years, the mothers and their children have provided 100 national and international collaborators. Study fi ndings environmental, developmental and health information, therefore have made a contribution to knowledge and understanding making available an extremely valuable resource for scientists in important fi elds such as antenatal care, asthma, childhood around the world to research a wide range of health areas. allergies, nutrition, mental health, cardiovascular health, eye health and genomics. The study team has worked hard to Notre Dame became involved in the study through Professor build a strong relationship with the study participants and their Beth Hands, Director of the University’s Institute for Health and families. To date, over 2000 participants are still actively engaged Rehabilitation Research. Professor Hands joined the scientifi c in the study. With some participants now becoming parents, the team in 1999 as the cohort was turning 10 years of age. Her role opportunity to follow the next generation is being explored. was to introduce assessments of motor development, physical

The RAINE STUDY: Twenty-three years old! By Professor Beth Hands, Director, Institute for Health and Rehabilitation Research

Background research questions relating to health active and more overweight, possibly The RAINE STUDY, originally known and disease in pregnancy, childhood, because they watched television in as the Western Australian Pregnancy adolescence and early adulthood. As the after- school hours, which is a Cohort study, began in 1989 with the cohort has matured, studies have critical window of opportunity for being the recruitment of pregnant women become focussed around specifi c physically active. On the other hand, attending the antenatal clinic at aspects of health. At the 20 year survey, adolescents were more likely than King Edward Memorial Hospital. researchers looked at eye health, body young children to be active immediately The researchers were interested in composition and thinking styles. For the after school, and then watch television investigating the safety of repeated 23 year survey, now underway, sleep later in the evening. patterns are being studied. For more ultrasounds to measure foetal Doctoral students growth and placental blood fl ow specifi c detail on the individual surveys Two Notre Dame doctoral students during pregnancy. The mothers were go to www.rainestudy.org.au have used, or are using, sophisticated randomised to either receive regular Key fi ndings by the statistical models to analyse the RAINE ultrasounds at 18, 24, 28, 34 and 38 Notre Dame team STUDY data to investigate other weeks of pregnancy, or only as required. Published papers have reported on the important health-related questions. The results showed that there were no relationships between physical activity, differences in health outcomes between Dr Paola Chivers undertook a motor competence and health related groups. Regular ultrasounds were safe! longitudinal investigation of the fi tness in the cohort. Our results have Since then, the study has continued contributions of obesogenic variables to challenged some common assumptions with data collections at one, two, three, developmental pathways of adolescent about the relationships between fi ve, eight, 10, 14, 17, 20 and now obesity. She identifi ed a number of physical activity, physical fi tness, 23 years of age. Over the years, the individual (e.g. sex, weight, height), sedentary behaviours (such as screen participants have attended the Telethon behavioural (e.g. physical activity, time) and motor competence. One key Institute for Child Health Research to diet ) and environmental (e.g. parental fi nding was the pivotal role of aerobic have information such as height, weight, factors, SES) variables thought to fi tness, rather than physical activity, as developmental milestones, diet, blood contribute to obesity from the data a key predictor of health. Secondly, we pressure, DNA, lung capacity, fi tness, sets gathered in-utero (18-20 weeks), identifi ed a link between low physical and posture documented, as well as at birth, and at ages one, two, three, activity and high screen use in young completing many, many questionnaires. six, eight, 10, and 14 years. Dr Chivers children but not adolescents. Younger The database is now a unique source then examined how the factors changed children who watched a lot of television of information capable of answering over time, their respective infl uence on were more likely to be less physically 19

obesity, whether critical points existed term delays in motor development. She in the timing of change, and whether has already found that maternal stress, A RAINE STUDY team researcher measures aerobic fi tness in a differences existed between the males in particular during early pregnancy, study participant using a bike and females. Paola was the fi rst of is related to poor developmental ergometer test. the RAINE STUDY investigators to outcomes in early childhood. As with successfully model Body Mass Index (a many other studies, she also found ratio of weight and height) from birth to that males are signifi cantly more likely 14 years using a powerful analytic tool - than females to have poorer outcomes; Linear Mixed Modelling. however, these are not related to maternal stress. Some key fi ndings were She is now extending the time frame • Adolescents who were and focussing on motor development overweight or obese at 14 years outcomes at 10, 14 and 17 years. Of followed different BMI trajectories interest, is the impact of events in from birth, compared to those of early developmental stages including normal weight. gestation, birth and the fi rst year of life, that may infl uence later development. • The overweight and obese As noted above, the differences adolescents had an earlier adiposity between males and females in motor A RAINE STUDY participant rebound (the second rise in BMI performs one of the fi ne motor development, as well as response to that occurs between three and tasks in the neuromuscular early environmental impactors, will form development assessment. seven years) than the overweight a focus of these later investigations. or normal weight groups. Tegan Grace will also examine • The obese adolescents had the differences in developmental pathways fastest increase of BMI over time. for adolescents with developmental • The rate of BMI change was faster disorders such as ADD, ADHD and for females compared to males. Autism Spectrum Disorders. • Early infant feeding patterns were The involvement of the University in such important in the timing of, and an important project provides an exciting BMI at, adiposity rebound. opportunity to academic staff and students • Exclusive breastfeeding (for longer to engage in world-leading research with than four months) is protective the potential to improve the health and against the development of well-being of our future generations. adolescent obesity. • Parental factors such as maternal education, parental birth weight and parental BMI were strong infl uences on their child’s BMI Members of the RAINE STUDY cohort gather from birth to adolescence. on the lawns of Government House WA, to celebrate the 21st year of the study.

This study showed the complex interrelationships between individual, behavioural and environmental factors, and their relative importance to obesity from birth through to early adolescence. A person’s weight is the result of the interaction between positive and negative infl uences, and an individual’s ability (genetic, psychological and environmental) to be resilient to the impact of negative infl uences. Early childhood was identifi ed as a critical time for establishing key behaviours that infl uence later obesity.

Tegan Grace is currently using the RAINE STUDY data to investigate perinatal risk factors for short and long 20

Bishop-elect, Robert McGuckin. CANON LAW SCHOLAR APPOINTED 6TH BISHOP OF TOOWOOMBA

Congratulations were extended in May to Bishop-elect, Robert McGuckin VG EV, who has been appointed the sixth Bishop of Toowoomba by Pope Benedict XVI. Professor Keith McNaught receives the 2012 Regional Employer Category Award from Senator Kim Carr and Dianne Fletcher. Bishop-elect McGuckin is Vicar General Photo courtesy of CRS Australia of the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta, where he is Moderator of the Curia and Episcopal Vicar for Health and Welfare.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR He was ordained a priest in the THE ACADEMIC ENABLING Archdiocese of Sydney in 1973. From 1986, he worked in the Diocese AND SUPPORT CENTRE of Parramatta in Canon Law and ministered in the parish of St Michael’s, The Fremantle Campus was “One of the greatest highlights for us South Blacktown. He holds degrees presented with a CRS Australia WA has been the ability to make a real in Theology and Canon Law and Employer Award at a ceremony held difference in people’s lives and to give has extensive experience in Church in Perth in April for its outstanding people an opportunity, when it may not Tribunals, where he is an accredited commitment to providing work otherwise be provided.” Ecclesiastical Judge. In 2011 the Bishops experience and employment Dianne Fletcher, General Manager, CRS of the Province of Sydney appointed him opportunities for people with an Australia, said Notre Dame is changing Judicial Vicar of the Regional Tribunal. injury, health condition or disability. lives by providing training and job He has lectured in Canon Law in the Human Services Minister, Senator opportunities for people with disabilities. Kim Carr, attended the ceremony School of Law on the Sydney Campus and presented awards to the “These job seekers achieve independence, since March 2010. winning employers. increased confi dence and satisfaction, Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor, fi nancial benefi ts and opportunities Notre Dame has worked with CRS Professor Hayden Ramsay, said the to learn, while Notre Dame has gained University would feel the loss of its Australia for over two years, and has hardworking, effective employees. assisted CRS Australia candidates teacher and friend. to secure rewarding employment by “I congratulate Professor Keith “Bishop-elect McGuckin is a scholar, a providing high quality tailored work McNaught and the Notre Dame team for dedicated teacher and a great spiritual training placements in the Academic helping our job seekers to achieve their advisor,” Professor Ramsay said. Enabling and Support Centre (AESC) goals, fulfi l their potential and contribute “He will be an exceptional leader to within the University. to their community,” said Ms Fletcher. the people of Toowoomba.” Professor Keith McNaught, Director CRS Australia is a part of the Australian Bishop-elect McGuckin said he of the AESC, said the team at CRS Government’s Department of Human hoped to remain involved in the Australia were a pleasure to work with. Services. They help over 50,000 job seekers towards meaningful employment Notre Dame community. “A refreshing part about working with each year. The organisation provides “I have enjoyed lecturing in the School CRS Australia staff is that there’s a disability employment and assessment of Law and I’ve made good friends with pragmatic receptiveness and openness services to people with a disability, injury students and staff over the past three that makes arranging a placement or health condition, and recruitment, years. I hope to be able to continue my much more likely to be a success for all injury prevention and injury management involvement with the University in the involved,” Professor McNaught said. services to employers. future,” he said. 21

LAW/ARTS STUDENT RECOGNISED FOR COMMITMENT TO INDIGENOUS ISSUES

Excellent leadership qualities, The fi fth-year student at the University’s Peter is currently studying the together with an unwavering Fremantle Campus, and former high Indigenous Peoples and Law unit at commitment to Indigenous social school graduate of CBC Fremantle, is Notre Dame under the guidance of justice issues in Australia, have passionate about improving the state of Adjunct Professor at Fremantle School of earned Law/Arts student, Peter Indigenous affairs and recognition within Law, Greg McIntyre. Mr McIntyre was Dawson, the 2012 John Koowarta his home city and around the country. involved in legal proceedings for both the John Koowarta and Mabo cases. Reconciliation Law Scholarship. In addition to his demanding study The scholarship, presented by the requirements, Peter is the co-chair of the Mr McIntyre said Peter was a worthy Law Council of Australia, is named National Youth Advisory Council to the recipient of the scholarship. National Centre of Indigenous Excellence in honour of John Koowarta - a “Peter is a young Koori man who has and is part of the Aboriginal Lawyers traditional owner of the Archer River shown natural leadership and an ability Committee of Western Australia which is region in the Cape York Peninsula to take advantage of the opportunities organising the National Indigenous Legal who famously challenged the which are presented to him. Queensland Government in the High Conference to be co-hosted by Notre Court for breaching the Federal Racial Dame and the University of Western “His studies in law, politics and Discrimination Act 1975. His case Australia in October. international relations have enabled him to assist in organising a national created an important precedent for the He is also the Fremantle student forum of young Aboriginal people on Mabo trial in 1992 which found for the representative of the University’s newly the hot topic of recognising Aboriginal existence of native title in Australia. formed Indigenous Education Consultative and Torres Strait Islander people in the Group and delivers talks to high school The aim of the scholarship is to assist Australian Constitution. Peter also takes students in Perth about Indigenous social Indigenous Australians in completing their the time to spread a positive message justice issues, racism and reconciliation. legal studies; this gives them a platform to about Indigenous social justice issues to contribute meaningfully to their profession, high school students,” Mr McIntyre said. their people and their community. “ Reconciliation requires healing “He will no doubt use the scholarship Peter says he is extremely honoured to to expand his already evident Indigenous individuals and receive a scholarship which pays tribute to leadership capacity.” an “inspirational Indigenous leader”. communities and educating all Australians so that we After graduating in 2013, Peter hopes “I am humbled to be counted amongst to be an effective advocate for his can overcome prejudice. the successful Indigenous lawyers and people, focussing on human rights law, law students who have received the Importantly, we need to start Indigenous, cultural and intellectual scholarship in previous years,” he said. celebrating and cultivating property and native title. “The scholarship gives me a sense of Indigenous success and pride and achievement in the work I move away from the defi cit have already done towards achieving language of disadvantage.” justice for my people, and inspires me to continue on this path.” Law/Arts student, Peter Dawson

Prime Minister, Julia Gillard meets with the organisers of the 2012 Indigenous Youth Constitutional Recognition Forum. Photo courtesy of Wayne Quilliam 22

NURSING GRADUATE DEVELOPS TOOL TO IMPROVE PATIENT CARE

concept of sepsis alert cards is to be Marissa said in order to provide the commended,” Ms Edgtton-Winn said. very best patient care, nurses must be able to solve problems, communicate “We would like to also commend her with hospital staff and patients and to consideration of patient safety and for prioritise and multitask effectively. addressing this in such a simple and effective manner.” “Developing and balancing all these very valuable skills is a challenge that all new graduates must face when they fi rst Sepsis is a condition in which move into the hospital system,” she said. the body is fi ghting a severe infection that has spread via the “A nurse’s ability to be able to do bloodstream. these things could mean the difference between a patient’s condition improving Sepsis was the cause of over or deteriorating, so the expectations of 25,000 deaths in Australia in Ron Wilson, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Nurse Unit Managers are high.” 2010 and the infection of the Emergency Department, Campbelltown Marissa said her sepsis card has been bloodstream affects between fi ve and Camden Hospitals, said Marissa packed away during her time working and 10% of all hospital patients. showed initiative by examining the on the Children’s Ward. The parameters Armed with these statistics sepsis care path and posters displayed displayed on the cards are for adults, and and undertaking her fi nal clinical at the hospital, then presenting that conclusive sepsis parameters for children placement at Campbelltown information in an accessible manner. Hospital in 2011, Nursing are yet to be developed. However, the graduate, Marissa Pikkat, has “Marissa has been one of our most graduate nurse remains passionate developed a tool to speed up the enthusiastic students, willing to take about sharing knowledge and resources early detection of sepsis. on a challenge and deliver education to amongst multidisciplinary medical our Emergency Department staff,” teams and has run education sessions Marissa developed a sepsis reference Mr Wilson said. on sepsis at both Campbelltown and card, which summarised the critical Bowral Public Hospitals. In addition “It is a pleasure to see a student health indicators for correctly and quickly to her cards being utilised in the adult fl ourish the way Marissa has.” diagnosing sepsis and could be pinned to wards at Campbelltown Hospital, they her identifi cation tag for quick reference. Following her graduation from the have been adopted by the nursing Little did she know her ‘invention’ would School of Nursing Sydney in December team working in Bowral Public Hospital soon become a permanent fi xture on 2011, Marissa commenced work as Emergency Department. the identifi cation tags of other nurses in a Registered Nurse at Campbelltown Campbelltown Hospital. Public Hospital, where she currently works in the Paediatric Ward, but will “I thought it would be handy to make Nursing graduate, move to the Coronary Care Unit on her Marissa Pikkat. myself a reference card, so I could next rotation. recognise a patient with sepsis and act upon it,” she said. She said transitioning from being a university student to working full time “I mentioned this to the Clinical Nurse was a challenge at fi rst, but she quickly Consultant, Ron Wilson, and he got used to the change in pace because suggested I make them for the whole she found her job so rewarding. department. I was then invited to share my idea at a state-wide sepsis “I really enjoy interacting with patients teleconference, led by the Clinical and their families,” Marissa said. Excellence Commission.” “You can really make a difference to Maureen Edgtton-Winn, Project Offi cer someone’s life when they are at their for the New South Wales Government’s worst, and put a smile on their face, Clinical Excellence Commission especially when working with children. Sepsis Project Team, said she and “I also enjoy looking at different sets of her colleagues were impressed by signs and symptoms and discussing Marissa’s drive and passion to improve diagnoses with my nursing colleagues patient care. and medical staff. Working as a team “Marissa’s initiative, enthusiasm to improve the health of our patients is and commitment for sharing her extremely motivating and rewarding.” 23

SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH GRANT FOR PROFESSOR OF PALLIATIVE NURSING

Professor Jane Phillips, Professor of Palliative Nursing at the Sydney Campus’ School of Nursing and The Cunningham Centre for Palliative Care, has been awarded a $100,000 research grant to deliver novel online learning modules for clinicians working to improve the management of pain experienced by cancer patients. Professor Phillips’ research proposal has been funded by the Translational Cancer Research Network (TCRN), a member-based network formed to create an innovative and supportive environment for the translation of cancer research fi ndings into improvements in patient care and outcomes.

Professor Phillips said she hopes her study, which began in June, will help clinicians integrate best evidence-based practice in pain assessment and management strategies when caring for cancer patients, who may experience varying levels and types of pain throughout their journey from diagnosis to surgery, treatment and recovery.

“Even though we have a range of treatments and fabulous clinicians, quite often cancer patients still experience a lot of poorly managed pain,” Professor Phillips said.

According to Professor Phillips, some clinicians fail to correctly identify the source and level of a patient’s pain, The trial aims to involve cancer care nurses and doctors can forget to document their fi ndings, or do not adequately working in fi ve hospitals, ambulatory care, community monitor the results of treatment they administer for pain. care and inpatient facilities across New South Wales. Compounding these issues, patients often see multiple Participants are emailed short, complex case scenarios health care providers, which can lead to confusion about every 48 hours, to which they respond in multiple choice or who is treating the pain they experience. short answer format. Immediate feedback is provided to the responder, including links to further reading on the topic.

“ It is my aim to deliver a quality project, to engage clinicians, and improve practice, but whatever I do, what I’m most interested in, is making life better for patients and their families.” Professor Jane Phillips

“The complexity of cancer demands a team of professionals “By giving a relatively simple but targeted education, to treat it, but it’s the way in which the team interacts delivered in a novel format to busy clinicians, we hope to and passes on information about their patient that is the be able to improve patients’ pain outcomes, as clinicians challenge,” Professor Phillips said. transfer their online learning into practice,” Professor Phillips said. “We need clinicians to be assessing their patients’ pain regularly and then responding accordingly. This small study ‘Spaced Education’ has proven effective in trials carried is one facet of improving pain outcomes for patients, by out at Harvard Medical School and at Sydney University. targeting clinician knowledge, attitudes and behaviour to Professor Phillips said if this method of providing improve pain assessment and management practices.” professional development to clinicians was successful in her upcoming trial, ‘Spaced Education’ could be effectively Professor Phillips’ 12-month study aims to determine utilised as part of other multifaceted interventions to deliver whether ‘Spaced Education’, a new form of online ongoing improvements to patient care across a myriad of education delivering carefully crafted clinical questions and health sectors. scenarios to participants via email over a 28-day period, is effective in changing the behaviour of clinicians in how well they assess, respond to, document and treat pain experienced by cancer patients. 24

NEW PROGRAM FOR GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS

Philosophy, art history, archaeology towards their subject and their care The Fremantle Campus Academic and iconography are just some of us. My eyes have been completely Enabling and Support Centre (AESC) of the subjects covered in the opened to subjects that I hadn’t even hosted this project as part of the Cultural DeCoding program which considered, and to the incredible Centre’s continuing work in outreach was offered for the fi rst time in Fremantle Campus,” Daniel said. into schools. January for gifted and talented Priyam Khare, a Year 12 student from Year 12 students. Willetton Senior High School, was also The four day program, held in late January impressed by the course. on the Fremantle Campus, was based “Cultural DeCoding has been one of the in the area of Humanities and was a most different and interesting courses collaborative effort led by Dr Annette I have attended. The experience Director, Professor Keith McNaught, Pedersen from John XXIII College and has not only exposed me to various said the Centre was delighted to be Notre Dame lecturer, Dr Angela McCarthy. perspectives, but also key constructs involved in a program for gifted and It was promoted throughout Western which dictate the modern, western talented students Australian secondary schools and society today,” said Priyam. attracted some of WA’s brightest students. “It is the role of the AESC to support “From the doctrines of classical Greek to all students on Campus. Many who Dr McCarthy says feedback from our current law and justice, each step has participate in our programs are very high teachers and parents indicates that been a wonderful and intricate insight into achievers seeking excellence in their there are very few programs on offer for our historical and modern lifestyle. students who excel in humanities. work, or to maximise their grades. The DeCoding Icons was a unique activity University’s Objects recognise the quest “This program is fully engaged in the that the students undertook as part of for excellence in teaching and learning.” humanities area and offers a thoroughly the course. integrated experience in archaeology, Following the successful inaugural iconography, philosophy, theology, Priyam said she felt that not coming program, another four-day experience is personal history, legal history, library from a Christian background further being planned for 16-18 January 2013. It resources, (ancient and very recent), art added to her experience. will involve very similar areas of Cultural DeCoding and will also respond to the history and the combination of ideas from “DeCoding Icons was amongst the suggestions made by the 2012 cohort. all of these areas,” explains Dr McCarthy. most surprising and interesting parts of Politics and Social Justice will be added Staff from the Schools of Philosophy this course. To not only decode religious to the list of topics, with discussions & Theology, Arts & Sciences and Law Christian icons through symbolism and lead by eminent staff members. and from St Teresa’s Library conducted technique, but then to also relive the sessions; the Student Life Offi ce and experience by painting our own icons was certainly very engaging,” she said. Campus Ministry team also contributed. Year 12 John XXIII College student, “Overall, the Cultural DeCoding course For more information contact: Daniel Hunt, said the course was the has been a thoroughly distinctive and Dr Angela McCarthy, most intellectually stimulating that he intriguing experience. I would like to School of Philosophy & Theology, had experienced so far. thank all the lecturers and speakers for Fremantle Campus giving us the time to get an insight into Phone: 9433 0214 “I was continually impressed with the their work and profession.” Email: [email protected] passion Notre Dame lecturers had 25

Icons - Earliest forms of Christian Art Icons hold an important place in the history of Western Civilisation as they are one of the earliest forms of Christian art. They are not just works of art, but are also called ‘windows to heaven’ because they draw the viewer into prayer and so lead them towards the sacred in a special way. Icons are ‘written’ because they are a visual theology encompassing the teachings of the Church.

The Bishops of Australia invited the whole Church to a Year of Grace which commenced at Pentecost, 2012. The image of Christ (opposite) has been chosen for the Year of Grace. It is the oldest icon of Christ and is in St Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai, Egypt. It dates from the middle of the 6th century, is linked to the Emperor Justinian and is called The Blessing Christ.

In later times is has become known as the Pantokrator. Jesus raises his hand in blessing with two fi ngers together representing his nature both divine and human, with the three other fi ngers showing that there are three persons in the one God. The gold nimbus around his head represents the ‘uncreated light’, God is not created, and the Son of God was pre-existent from all other creation. Christ holds the book that represents the word, logos, (Greek – λόγος), He is the Word of God.

Christ the Saviour (Pantokrator), a 6th-century encaustic icon from Saint Catherine's Monastery, Mount Sinai. This image has been cropped.

Priyam Khare (Willeton SHS), Daniel Hunt (John XXlll College), Stephen Mazza, (Bunbury Catholic College) and Yvette Le Tessier (Mandurah Catholic College) showing their fi nished Icons. 26

PARTNERSHIPS KEY TO GRADUATING EXCELLENT PHYSIOTHERAPISTS

“I really want to help people” year. Successfully accessing placements is extremely challenging as Notre Dame is not only in direct competition for placements with physiotherapy programs from two other This is one of the most common responses made WA universities, but there is also the additional challenge that by prospective students during their admissions most of the private hospitals in the metropolitan area do not interview at Notre Dame when asked why they employ Physiotherapists directly. It is more common for them want to study Physiotherapy. to use contract physiotherapy services. The educational journey towards achieving this admirable Faced with limited access to suitable clinical placements goal is one which requires the commitment and support of for students, the School’s Clinical Education Team have had not only the University and School of Physiotherapy staff, to develop strong working relationships with staff from WA but also Western Australian (WA) health care providers. Health Department hospitals and facilities, non-government The Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC) requires all organisations and regional hospitals and healthcare facilities. physiotherapy programs in Australia to comply with strict Clinical Coordinator, Associate Professor Joanne guidelines with regard to clinical experience. Connaughton, leads the team responsible for establishing Notre Dame’s School of Physiotherapy is required to source these relationships which provide the essential clinical skills approximately 460 clinical placements/experiences every opportunities for students.

Associate Professor Connaughton talks about the importance of clinical placements: Our commitment to offer our students these must include the core areas of Faced with the challenge of accessing the opportunity to gain ‘hands on’ musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory clinical supervision for students, the experience and work in a clinical setting and neuroscience rehabilitation; from School’s Clinical Education Team has as early as possible is one of the teaching hospitals to non-government been very aware that it needed to distinctive attributes of a Physiotherapy organisations, to private practice and develop strong working relationships degree at Notre Dame. into the community. with the WA Health Department hospitals and facilities staff, non-government The School’s Pre-Clinical Experience This entails six fi ve-week (35hrs per organisations staff, rural hospital staff (PCE) program was developed week) blocks of placements during which and practice staff. The team prioritises to enable students to have early they will gain experience working in its communication with these groups interaction with ‘real’ patients and an facilities which offer a range of care to through regular telephone calls and exposure to the wider physiotherapy patients whose ages cross a lifespan. frequently visiting key staff, ensuring that community. Students are required When the Physiotherapy program there is an excellent working relationship to complete 30 hours of PCE in their commenced in 2003, it was that benefi ts all those involved. fi rst year and another 25 hours in their recognised that there was a shortage second year. These experiences include A critical factor in the successful of physiotherapists working in the helping in aged care facilities; assisting outcome of a student placement is aged care and rural sectors in WA. families of children with disabilities; ensuring that both the student and Given the University’s commitment being involved with disabled sports the staff in the workplace are well to provide for areas of unmet need, activities; and helping in recovery tents prepared. It is then extremely important it was important that the new School at the fi nish line of events such as the whilst they are on placement, that ensured students had exposure to rural Iron Man and marathon competitions. their experience is monitored and then communities. It was hoped that through followed up to ensure there has been a The PCE experience prepares students this experience they would develop an positive and productive outcome. to engage with dignity and respect with interest in working in these sectors. people of all ages and backgrounds, thus This is a strategy which has already been Accessibility to the Clinical Education preparing them for their second year of successfully implemented in the Schools Team is vital throughout the placement. clinical placement. Students complete of Education, Nursing and Medicine. It is important that students can feel another clinical placement in third year confi dent that they can contact us about Hence, all Notre Dame students have followed by four more in fourth year. any issues they may be experiencing. a clinical placement working with Balancing full time clinical (unpaid) Over the course of their four year elderly clients either in an aged care, work, after-hours study, and working to degree, students at Notre Dame community or hospital setting and a support themselves, with their sport and undertake a total of 1140 hours of rural clinical placement from somewhere social life can be a real test. supervised clinical placements. To in the south to the extreme north of WA. meet the requirements of the APC 3rd year Physiotherapy student promoting the importance of warming up to mining staff prior to their shift. Feedback from students on placements: “The variety of experience I was given and the challenges thrown at me have really helped in progressing me in my learning. Having access to some neurological patients has been fantastic. This was something I was nervous about when beginning this placement, but my supervisors gave me a very supportive learning experience. Having the task to run my ward was challenging but very benefi cial. The country setting was fantastic and if the opportunity of a good job in a rural setting was to arise, I would not hesitate to pursue it.” Ben Ireland, 2012 graduate.

“It was only the second time I had been in a remote Indigenous community and I have learned how important it is not only to the people, but also to my supervisor, that we are culturally aware, respectful and work closely with people to create strong relations to build trust between community members and health care providers.” Hannah Finnigan, 2011 graduate.

The result of this scheduling of We have had wonderful feedback from placements is that physiotherapy organisations who have benefi ted from students are on placement in the this immersion. Following is an excerpt larger public health facilities from an email the team received from continuously from the fi rst week of Emily Bruining, Kids Camps Volunteer January through until December. Coordinator in August 2011.

Communication and collaboration “We ended up having 13 fi rst year Notre is essential to create and maintain Dame physio students on camps this great clinical placement for semester break as part of their community We discuss with students how they students . It is so rewarding to service hours and I believe you were can achieve a balance in their life. We receive telephone calls from excited responsible for sending them our way. understand that things in their personal students on placement who want to They have all conducted themselves or professional life aren’t always going share their fi rst clinical experience. to go how they planned and that they exceptionally, and without them we would need guidance on how to manage and It is wonderful to be able to offer the not have been able to source enough regain a balance. The team are always opportunity for fantastic learning volunteers for this round of camps. The ready to assist in whatever way we can experiences for students so keen fi eld supervisor’s feedback indicated to make sure the student has the best and eager to apply their knowledge that many of them cared for challenging possible experience. of physiotherapy. campers with great maturity and the highest duty of care. The supervisors Whilst this article is very much focussed Clinical Educator workshops are an were extremely impressed, given few of on the importance of our clinical important method of ensuring that them had previous experience working placements and the partnerships we clinical educators are well informed. with children with special needs. One of have developed, there is one other In 2012 the Clinical Education Team them has since been offered a carer job distinctive feature which is integral has conducted two Clinical Educator by the parent of one of our campers. workshops on Campus for around to the ‘Notre Dame Physiotherapy 60 clinical educators and tutors, two student experience’ worth mentioning. You should be very proud of them all! I’d like to sincerely thank your School for workshops in hospital facilities for In 2010 a centered service learning continuing to refer your physio students approximately 40 supervisors and a component was introduced in to Kids’ Camps. We generally have no video conference workshop from the PCE through the support of the hesitation accepting them on to camp West Australian Country Health Services University’s Campus Ministry team. as they are some of the most intelligent, Offi ce in Perth catering for rural Students are required to complete motivated and enthusiastic young Physiotherapists supervising students a minimum of ten hours interacting people we have come across.” on rural clinical placements. with people who are disadvantaged One very positive outcome of the in some way – socially, mentally, The School of Physiotherapy is proud of collaborative work undertaken over physically or fi nancially, for example. our students and the reputation we have in the clinical community. It is exciting for the past few years is that all tertiary It has been a very successful staff to learn that each year, the majority physiotherapy programs offered in WA initiative providing students with of our students have secured jobs before have worked together to align their clinical some profound experiences, and they have even completed their studies. placement calendars for the fi rst time. has allowed them to learn about We look forward to continuing to graduate This has created more opportunities for themselves as carers. The response excellent Physiotherapists who will clinical placements, ensuring that there from students has been that it is provide a vital service to the community. are suffi cient placements to meet the rewarding for them to know that their requirements of both the universities and involvement has made a difference to The Australian Physiotherapy Council. others less fortunate. 28

REWARDING RESULTS FOR RESEARCH FOCUS

“ (The Catholic university) has always been recognised as an incomparable centre of creativity To further support research, the and dissemination of knowledge for the good University has instigated schemes to reward research-active staff, provide of humanity.” His Holiness Pope John Paull ll, Ex Corde Ecclesiae training for early career research supervisors, and increase the number of Guided by its Objects, the University time is right to increase research activity higher degrees by research students. seeks to be an outstanding Australian in parallel with teaching and scholarship.” undergraduate university, and one of the The developing research culture is Over the past three years there has been best Catholic universities in the world. highlighted in the success of academics a strong focus on building the University’s Historically it has successfully focussed and students in their application for three research centres: Centre for Faith, its energies on achieving excellence in funding to support their research. Ethics & Society; Institute for Health teaching and scholarship; training for Examples of successful grants for & Rehabilitation Research; and the the professions and pastoral care for its 2011/2012 are listed below. Many other Nulungu Research Institute, into places students. In 2009, the Vice Chancellor, staff not listed here continue to build of excellence, wherein cross-discipline Professor Celia Hammond, stated: “After their research through collaborations and multi-professional research is 17 years of experience and growth, the with other universities nationally. encouraged and developed.

Notre Dame Chief Investigator/Team Research Title School/Centre Funding Agency/ Scheme PhD student, Centre The Wrath of Achilles: Re-Modelling Mr Matthew Beard for Faith Ethics and Morris Scholarship War as an Individual Relationship Society

Optimising the motor outcome of infants PhD student, Medicine National Health & Medical Ms Catherine Morgan with cerebral palsy using environmental (Sydney) Research Council (NHMRC) and goal oriented interventions

Information and Communication Professor Michael O’Neill, Building the ICTE Capacity of Pre-Service Technology (ICT) Innovation Associate Professor Jean McNish, Teachers in Australian Universities Education (Fremantle) Fund of the Department of Ms Lorraine Day (Teaching Teachers for the Future) Education, Employment and Workplace Relations

Preventing falls in older patients after hospital Physiotherapy Dr Anne Marie Hill Menzies Foundation discharge by providing patient education (Fremantle)

Professor Beth Hands, Professor Max A joint initiative between The University of Institute Health HBF Program Bulsara, Associate Professor Diane Notre Dame Australia, The Fremantle GP Rehabilitation Research Development Grant Arnold-Reed, Professor Tom Brett Network and HBF & Medicine (Fremantle)

Professor Michael O’Neill, Professor Quality Early Career Teacher Education (Fremantle) Western Australian Catholic Richard Berlach, Associate Professor Mentor Program Education Offi ce Maureen Mears

Professor Lyn Henderson-Yates, Professor Patrick Dodson, Professor The Transition of Aboriginal and Marguerite Maher, Professor Neil Drew, Nulungu Research Australian Learning Teaching Torres Strait Islander students into Ms Terri Hughes, Mr Steve Kinnane, Institute Council (ALTC) Higher Education Professor Keith McNaught, Associate Professor Kevin Watson

Preventing falls in older patients after hospital Physiotherapy National Health & Medical Dr Anne-Marie Hill discharge by providing patient education (Fremantle) Research Council (NHMRC)

Effects of a combined group exercise PhD student, Institute and counselling program on selected Mr Eric Martin Health Rehabilitation Sports Medicine Australia physiological and psychological parameters Research in breast and prostate cancer survivors

Centre for Faith Ethics Associate Professor Sandra Lynch Giving voice to values Mary Phillipa Brazill Foundation and Society

Defi ning unmet needs of haematology Cancer and Palliative Care Professor Leanne Monterosso survivors: An exploratory study to inform Nursing (Fremantle) Research and Evaluation Unit and Team intervention development (CaPCREU) small grants scheme

Dr Frank Bate, Associate Professor Jean Mobile Learning in early Public Education Endowment Education (Fremantle) MacNish, Ms Christine McGunnigle childhood education Trust (PEET) 29

SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDES HOPE FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Improving the educational and life opportunities of impacted on my studies, but education is the key to a good young women is at the heart of a new Notre Dame future and I’m looking forward to completing university,” she said. scholarship sponsored by the Sisters of Charity “After fi nishing my HSC, I didn’t know what to pursue next Foundation on the Sydney Campus. and the Sisters of Charity Foundation Scholarship gave me In particular, the scholarship is being made available to the opportunity to go to uni. The scholarship has provided me young women who have experienced great challenges fi nancial support and the FYP at Notre Dame is providing the in the early part of their lives and have therefore needed educational support that’s helping me to succeed.” the support of ‘out-of-home’ care. This can include foster The Sisters of Charity Foundation Scholarship provides placement, relative placement, residential care programs funding for a three-year university course and includes and independent programs. State and territory governments an allowance for textbooks, uniforms and participation are responsible for child protection and out-of-home care in community events. The program aims to bring tertiary provisions throughout Australia. education and self determination into reach for some of the Ms Tashi Angmo was one of the two inaugural recipients. most disadvantaged young people in the state. The scholarship has made it possible for her to enrol in the Tashi says being offered the opportunity to go to university University’s Foundation Year Program (FYP). has changed her life.

The FYP is designed to introduce students to the demands “Going to uni gives me hope - I know I’ll have a better chance of of academic study, such as research and critical thinking, landing my dream job with a degree behind me.” language, academic writing and learning skills. The fi rst semester is focussed on literacy and core skills for academic Richard Haddock, Chairman of the Sisters of Charity Foundation, success. In the second semester, students undertake said Notre Dame is a supportive learning environment for the four units in their chosen stream, making them eligible for scholarship students because of its emphasis on pastoral care. advanced standing towards their undergraduate degree. “We chose to partner with Notre Dame because it’s a unique This support is critical for students such as Tashi. Often a university that would give the scholarship recipients a chance young person’s experience in out-of-home care has meant to excel in a caring environment where the students’ individual they have missed substantial periods of school and have had needs can be met,” Mr Haddock said. to adapt to transferring to different schools, depending on Applications and expressions of interest are open to any changes of placement. individual who would like to be considered for a scholarship. Tashi said tertiary education has always been important to her. For further information, contact the Prospective Students Offi ce, “Living out of home has been pretty diffi cult for me and has Sydney Campus on (02) 8204 4404 or [email protected].

EXCEPTIONAL GENEROSITY PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR THEOLOGY STUDENTS ‘Young’ Francis Slavin with his mother. Mr Francis Thomas Slavin was Mr Slavin did not have a direct relationship 85 years of age when he passed with the University but he was a devout away on 20th March 2009. As Catholic who was concerned about the with many octogenarians, he had lack of priests in the Murchison area. Upon led an interesting life. He fought in his death, he bequested the sum of World War II, serving in the Citizen $480,000, to be used “by Notre Dame Military Forces and the Australian University, Department of Theology for Imperial Force. the training of priests for the diocese of Perth and Geraldton”. After being discharged in 1946, he settled in the remote Western Australian Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia country town of Mount Magnet where he Hammond, said the University, and in was the proprietor of the local drapery particular the School of Theology and store for over 40 years. His mother was Philosophy, were extremely grateful for widowed quite young and it was ‘Frank’ the support of Mr Slavin. who cared for her, staying in Mount “We are indeed very fortunate to have Magnet until she eventually died in her received this bequest. Mr Slavin’s 90s. Upon her death he sold his business generosity and forethought will have a and moved to Perth. lasting impact for our Theology students,” Professor Hammond said. yeararoofgrace STARTING AFRESH FROM CHRIST

The Objects of The University of Notre Dame Australia are: a) the provision of university education within a context of Catholic faith and values; and b) the provision of an excellent standard of – i) teaching, scholarship and research; ii) training for the professions; and iii) pastoral care for its students.

Produced by: Offi ce of Communications and Media, The University of Notre Dame Australia Editor: Michelle Ebbs Contact: 19 Mouat Street (PO Box 1225) Fremantle WA 6959 Tel: +61 8 9433 0610 // Fax: +61 8 9433 0855 // [email protected] // www.nd.edu.au CRICOS Provider Codes: Western Australia - 01032F; New South Wales - 02651D

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