The Melbourne Graduate April 2011

MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND AN INVITATION-ONLY DINNER AT GRADUATE HOUSE TO FOLLOW THE FOUNDERS DAY ORATION AT MELBA HALL

WE CAN CATER FOR 120 GUESTS, INCLUDING THE CHANCELLOR AND OTHER VIPS 60 PLACES HAVE BEEN RESERVED FOR MEMBERS

THESE PLACES WILL BE STRICTLY ALLOCATED ON A ‘FIRST COME’ BASIS. If you wish to attend please enter your name and contact details on the form below

and return to Graduate House AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

CHRISTOPHER BOOTHI enjoy meeting people, learning others’ viewpoints, convivial conversation and making connections. I’m husband to Iris and father to AJ (nearly 5 months old). Also, having trained as a molecular biologist and

having worked in finance and commercially around biotech, I currently look after the life sciences portfolio of Thomson Reuters across Australia & NZ. My favourite word is “opportunity” and there is plenty for the Graduate Union, in terms of continued growth of our activities for all members and residents, as well as for stakeholders in the University of Melbourne and the local community. There is always scope for advancing an organization and I hope that my input is valuable to the evolution of the Union, its activities and its corporate processes. With the Graduate Union’s proud history, I feel privileged to serve on its Council at this exciting point in time.

DAVID EYRESDavid was born in Ballarat, and after school at Geelong studied architecture at the University of Melbourne, and lived in Trinity College. Following graduation, he worked in New York and London and

travelled a great deal in Europe as well as driving a van from London to Bombay. His work as an architect in Melbourne included the design of colleges, schools, churches and other institutional buildings. In retirement David has enjoyed designing and painting sets for musicals; he has always taken an active interest in music and art. He recently moved house from Kalorama to Geelong, where he is getting to know a new community. David’s wife died some years ago, and he has one son.

GLENDA FISHERWhen I am not attending to Graduate Union business in my role as Vice Chairman I coordinate programs in the Catholic Education Office Melbourne for senior secondary & tertiary students

who experience learning difficulties and disabilities, and who wish to access training and further education. This gives me the opportunity to meet some great young people and their parents and assist in the construction of niche programs that ensures they get every opportunity in mainstream society. I also chair a “not for profit” board called YouthNow that focuses on providing education, training and work options for youth in the western region of Melbourne. Away from the world of work my husband and I enjoy the tranquil surrounds of Woodend and love to travel widely, especially in Europe. We are ardent watchers of British Crime Thrillers and devotees of AFL football.

DOUGLAS PROCTORDouglas Proctor is Associate Director, International Relations at the University of Melbourne and leads a team of staff with responsibility for international relations strategy and planning, international policy

and research, diplomatic engagement, and the coordination and oversight of the University’s formal bilateral and multilateral partnerships with overseas universities and governments. Douglas is one of the two nominees of the Vice-Chancellor on Graduate Council and is pleased to bring his experience of the University and of international matters to the Union.

9 – April 2011 Volume 65 No.2

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATETHE MELBOURNE GRADUATE

(Contd. pg 9)

KNOW YOUR COUNCIL

FOUNDERS DAY DINNER 14 JULY 2011

Graduate House 220 Leicester Street Carlton Vic 3053I wish to attend the Oration Dinner on 14 July 2011. I am a member of the Graduate Union.

NAME: Contact:

THE MELBOURNE GRADUATE

DAVID SPARKSI refer to myself as a semi retired electrical engineer, past experience in engineering and management of large process plants. I have had many years in Apex the service club, Institution of Engineers committees

and with two daughters and a son I have had my share of school councils. Four grandsons and two granddaughters but unfortunately the nearest grandchild is 250 km away. As Council chair my vision for The Graduate Union is to consolidate it by improving the way the Council operates and as recently discovered to see good financial governance put into place. We have an excellent group of councillors and staff who I try to support and encourage to achieve their goals and their enjoyment of their tasks.

CHERYL KIDSTONWho am I? I’m a bushwalking, strength training, migrant English teaching, bridge playing retiree who does pro-bono professional work in my spare time, and in addition to that, I am proudly serving my third term as a Councillor who is committed to the future of the Graduate Union and its members. We have so much to be proud of, and so much to look forward to in the coming years. I like to think I bring a well balanced and considered perspective to the business of the Council, and I am able to assure you all that I am unencumbered by any special alliances, past history or personal agenda. During the next year or two there will be many positive changes in the way the Graduate Union is governed and managed as we build a new team and implement improvements to our policies and practices, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to that effort.

ANDRE CLEGHORN I have always loved science and finding out how things work. This led me to study science at Monash and then Melbourne Universities and later work at the Royal Women’s Hospital as a microbiologist.

Now I operate a plant tissue culture laboratory mainly cloning orchids for commercial nurseries. My interests are bushwalking, photography, music, the environment and plants of all types. About eight years after joining the Graduate Union I became a councillor joined the development committees for both our new buildings and experienced an exciting time in the life of the Graduate Union. I joined, like so many other members, for the social functions in a collegiate atmosphere but then became interested in the work we are doing helping post graduate students. Now that our major development period is over I feel that it is time to concentrate on our collegiate activities and expand our membership to use our facilities. In our centenary year we are embarking on another exciting period of revitalization.

KATERINA KAPOBASSIS Katerina was appointed as one of the Vice-Chancellor’s appointees in December 2010, bringing to Graduate House strong financial credentials and business experience. She currently holds the position of Director, University

Budget and Divisional Planning for the University of Melbourne where she is responsible for providing quality financial advice and delivering the consolidated budget of the University. Prior to commencing in her current role, Katerina was a manager within the Finance team at Myer Holdings Limited.

Katerina began her career in retail, joining the Coles Myer Group in 1990 where she developed her skills as an accounting professional. Her most recent roles within the organization were Investment Evaluation Manager and Merchandise Planning and Analysis Manager for Myer Holdings Limited. Katerina commenced with the University in February 2010. She holds a Bachelor of Business degree from RMIT and is a Certified Practicing Accountant.


April 2011 Volume 65 No.2 – 10


Our ancestors determined the genetic differences we experience now. In the past these differences played an important role in the survival of the tribe. Professor Holloway gave many examples of the role genes play in everyday behaviour, genetically learned behaviour and the influence of the environment. He explained colour blindness and baldness, saying colour blindness, usually the inability to differentiate between red and green, is predominantly a male affliction. In tribal times having hunters with this condition was an advantage, they could see camouflaged prey more easily. Colour blindness in females is rare because they had no need for this ability. Baldness is present equally in both male and female, but the hormonal environment in males allows these genes expression. The many chemicals involved in human interactions were surprising with the example given of the chemical basis of love – it all came down to chemical reactions processed by the brain!We were shown pictures of the Lesch-Nyham syndrome – a rare genetic disorder in young children which manifests in self-mutilation and self-injury and is caused by a single gene. The FOXP2 gene has recently been identified as the basis for communication and the cause of speech abnormalities. Further research will greatly assist speech therapists. The DRD2 gene has been identified as a risk-taking gene, responsible for compulsive behaviours such as gambling, drug addiction and alcoholism in certain individuals. Within the tribe risk-taking individuals were necessary – their bravery ensured more successful hunting. The study of behavioural diagnosis is important because the greater knowledge of these genes enables better treatment and early identification of the risk involved.

(MARCH LUNCHEON contd. from pg 9)

(KNOW YOUR COUNCIL contd. from pg 9)

PERIODICAL NEWSLETTER OF THE GRADUATE UNION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE INCORPORATEDPRINT POST APPROVED PP337834/00022. REGISTERED ASSOCIATION No. AA0023234B

April 2011 Volume 65 No.2 www.graduatehouse.com.au


THEGRADUATE

UNIONof

The University of Melbourne Inc.

All Members are invited to commemorate 100 years on Wednesday 4th May 2011

at 6pm at Graduate HouseThe first meeting of graduates took place on 4 May 1911. At this meeting held in the rooms of Doctor James Barrett at 105 Collins Street, Melbourne, it was determined that an Association of Graduates of The University of Melbourne be initiated. There were faculty representatives from Law, Arts, Engineering, Science, Music and Medicine. Three subcommittees were formed to examine the possibility of establishing the following amenities for the graduate community :

a residential university club; a graduates association; an annual graduates day.

ELECTION EDITION

Our President, The Honourable John Cain will launch the Official Celebrations at this special Cocktail Party for Members of The Graduate Union

Please RSVP your attendance by 29 April 2011. Tel: 9347-3428 or E: [email protected]



AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS 2011

NEW MEMBERS

Member of the Order of Australia (AM)Professor Ian N Olver AM (Life Member 1977)Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)Mr Brian A Corless OAM (Member 1958) Professor David L Copolov OAM (Member 1989) Mr Raymond A Welsford OAM (Member 1960)

CORPORATEMelbourne Law SchoolDept of Mech Engineering McCaughey Centre University of NSW ADFA

ORDINARYEmer Professor Judith Parker (Medicine)(HonCausa) Mr John Murray, BComHonsMrs Bernadette Murray, MA NursPracMs Joan Martin, BEd (Monash) Ms Lisa Milton, BAScPhysioMr John Martyn, MADr Ross Weber, BA(Hons)PhDDr Wael Hassan, MPathMr Paul Tring, BSc(Hon)Ms Maartje Luijten,ClinDentDr Teemu Kautonen,BBA(Helsinki)Prof Richard McLaren, HBA,LLB,LLM(Ontario)Dr Koji Takayama, Medicine(Tokyo)Mr Shane Tyrrell, JD(Deakin)

Mrs Carol E Baker, BAMr Jonathan Forbes, MBAProf Brynjuif Stige, PhDMusMr Bruce D Fethers, BSc,LLB

STUDENT MEMBERSMr Jiecheng Liu -China Mr Noboru Ishikawa – Japan Mr Richard Fernandes – Queensland Mr Stephen Fries – VictoriaMr. Alex Hong – Tasmania Ms Yejin Julia Jung – NSW Ms Pheobe Hone – NSWMs Yui Kaneko – NSW Dr Uwe Schwerdtfeger – Germany Mr Seyedsaeed Miramini – IranMs Blessings Anunike – NigeriaMr Thomas Apperley – New ZealandMr Quinchuan Liu – ChinaMs Tao Chen – ChinaMr Evgeni Sergeev – West AustraliaMs Amir Torkamani – IranMr Andre Fagerborg – Victoria

Ms Niloufar Torkamani - IranMr MJ Rykiss – Canada Ms Sharmila Acharya – Canada Mr Jia Jun Woo – NSW Ms Pauline Pham – Canada Ms Maya Silberstein – USAMr Mohd J Koohsari – Iran Ms Justine Cliffe – New ZealandMr Younggyu Son – Victoria Ms Joan Van Der Lubbe – NetherlandsDr Sherz Burki – Pakistan, Mr Jim Tapp – New ZealandMr Timothy Chang – QLDMr Si Xiong – VictoriaMs Andrezza Kim – BrazilMr Labonya Nirjan – BangladeshMs Alexis Rodriguez – MexicoMr Samer Basmaji - Victoria

All degrees are from University of Melbourne unless otherwise noted. Degrees are stated as presented on members’ application forms

CONTENTSCALENDAR EVENTS 2NEW MEMBERS 2DONATIONS 2AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS 2LETTERS 2CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 3GRADUATE COUNCIL ELECTIONS 5CANDIDATES’ STATEMENTS 5RESIDENTS 8SPEAKERS 8KNOW YOUR COUNCIL 9INVITATION 9

The Melbourne Graduate is normally published four times a year by The Graduate Union of The University of Melbourne Incorporated. It is edited by Lyn Weston and Rhonda Lu, under the direction of the Graduate Council and its Executive Committee.The Melbourne Graduate welcomes letters from readers and reserves the right to edit them for publication. Please keep word count to a maximum of 250 and address to The Editors, The Melbourne Graduate.Registered Address: The Graduate Union, 220 Leicester St., Carlton, Vic. 3053 Australia. Telephone: (03) 9347-3428 Facsimile (03) 9347-9981www.graduatehouse.com.au – email: [email protected] by: FSG Design & Print, 1 Argent Place, Ringwood, Vic 3134. Tel: (03) 9873 5144

DONATIONS

VALETE

Building FundB Stevenson, R Skilbeck, E J Miller, P Cenek, H Miller, D Adams, R Northrop, D Welch, I Geard, M Merchant, C Iseli, G Fisher, K Mawson,(We apologize for the printing error in the last edition – A.Graves should be read A.Grave, BF Donation)

Residents Assistance Fund: M Hill, L & J Bailey, A Martin, J Casey, E Carvosso, S N Stuart, B Dove, Scholarship Fund:B Tress, G Israel

Since of the last edition of The Melbourne Graduate, we have been notified of the death of Mr J H Beale, Life Member since 1955 and we offer our condolences to his family.

LETTERSFrom Ben Wadham (Life Member)I am glad to have received the Council’s explanatory letter about the departure of Mr Spanti. It clears the air completely as far as I am concerned. I trust that you will find your new role palatable and rewarding! I have been intending to acknowledge our President’s advice about the Founders Day Oration and Dinner. Whilst I am looking forward to the GU Centenary Celebrations, I guess the Oration and Dinner will be a ‘dress’ occasion and not quite my ‘scene’ at 84! With kind regards January 2011

From Rob Robson (Life Member),Please thank David Sparks for his stimulating Xmas message, and congratulate him and the Council on the success of the past year. I enjoy my rare visits to Graduate House - usually down to stay when one of our “last man standing” reunions is on. Feel a bit guilty about my membership benefits though, as you will see from the attached I gained my Life Membership by outlaying the princely sum of eighteen guineas in 1963. Best investment made to

date! Congratulations on your own appointment, albeit in an acting capacity. I hope 2011 works out well for you. January 2011

From Marguerita Adam (Life Member)Like other members I would like to know how best to help alleviate the current unfortunate position of the Graduate Union. I would like to speak to the Chairman, David Sparks, about this, offering my support to any positive course of action he may deem useful in minimizing the damage already caused by the incompetence and irresponsibility of some members of our Council. I would also like to point out the urgent need for members to have access to Council members, at least by email. They are our representatives and are responsible to the membership. An airing of views can be most beneficial and any flack is very likely to be deserved and all the better for being expressed BEFORE the AGM. I look forward to a prompt reply. With kind regards February 2011

COMING EVENTS28 APRIL 5.30PMMEET THE CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION4 MAY MONTHLY LUNCHEON - CANCELLED4 MAY 6PM CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS COMMENCE26 MAY 5.30PM ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING7PM AUTUMN DINNER – SPEAKER: PROFESSOR PATRICK MCGORRY1 JUNE 12NOONMONTHLY LUNCHEON – SPEAKER: PROFESSOR BERNARD RECHTER

OFFICE BEARERS

President: The Honourable John Cain

Vice President: Dr Robert Gibson

Chairman: Mr David N Sparks

Vice Chairman: Mrs Glenda FisherActing Secretary:

Mrs L Weston


RUTH, JOHANN, ME&IRProposer – Glenda Joan Fisher Seconder – Andre CleghornI have been fortunate to have served on the Graduate Union Council

in the recent past. As a member of the Membership Committee, I became a feature at graduation ceremonies promoting the benefits of Graduate Union membership to new graduates. Together with my substantive role as the General Manager of the Graduate Student Association, an incorporated and independent association for current graduate students at the University, I believe that I am much better informed and can contribute more meaningfully to growing and maintaining the membership base of the Graduate Union.I am also acutely aware and experienced in the complexities of leading and managing change in service organizations, having managed projects for the Victorian Government in the health and energy industries. Thus, with my colleagues, in our second century, I wish to contribute to a strong start to it and add my knowledge to a relatively new and talented Council.

JABLONKA, IRENE, BSc, BBus(Acc), MTax, DipFS(Fin Plan)Proposer – Miriam Heather Kudeviita Seconder – A Marguerita Neal-Adam

• Retired public servant. • Worked both in State affiliated and Commonwealth

departments/facilities on a continuous and full-time basis for a period of 33 years.

• Since 2008, member of the University of Melbourne Committee of Convocation.

I have been a member of the Graduate Union since 1997. If elected I would like to work to achieve greater engagement of current members in the activities of the Graduate Union and Graduate House, as well as to vigorously campaign to recruit new members. In the financial area, I would like to see high priority given to the reduction of the debt that is on our books in connection with the recent building development. Contact address: [email protected]

SANTALUCIA, LEO, BBus(Acc), GradDip(Acc&Fin)Proposer – John Andrew Binns Seconder – David Thomas BellairA life member of the Graduate Union since 2007, I have been

fortunate enough to not only enjoy the benefits of membership of the association but also contribute to some process and facilities improvements in recent years.With over 25 years experience in sales, marketing, strategic planning, financial and customer relationship roles in property, financial services and general insurance industries, I offer strong business acumen and a vast knowledge in corporate governance and the stewardship of mutual entities, as well as project management skills, to design and drive strategic change.I believe that I can contribute to the effectiveness of the Graduate Council by ensuring the interests of members and residents are acknowledged and enriched. And, if successful through this nomination, I shall represent all members to achieve the agreed goals and objectives under our Mission of embracing academic, cultural and general diversity within a collegiate environment.

BELLAIR, DAVID THOMAS, BAppSc(Hons), PhDProposer – Alan William Abbott Seconder – Margaret Munro HendyDr David Bellair FAICD MACS(Snr) MIEAust, is very concerned at recent

Council actions and conflicting explanations.David believes that the Graduate Union should be well and quietly governed with all Council business and possible consequences discussed face to face by all Councillors sitting around a table rather than by a flurry of emails and phone calls between Councillors, and that the roles of Staff and Councillors should be very clearly separated.David has previously been a Councillor for 12 years including three as Chairman, and believes he has the background, experience and determination to help put the Graduate Council back on the right track. He is now retired after 16 years in academic positions at the RAAF Academy and Monash University and many years running his own Computer Consulting business.His sole objective as a Councillor will be to act in the best interests of the Graduate Union.

*Retiring Councillors eligible for re-election


(CANDIDATES STATEMENTS Contd)


Sheraz BurkiI am a Dentist by profession and specialise in the field of Orthodontics. After completing my Bachelor from De’Montmorency

College of Dentistry Lahore, I obtained my master of science degree of Orthodontics at Marmara University Istanbul.I am presently pursuing the Graduate Certificate program in Clinical Dentistry at The University of Melbourne. Apart from my professional life, I am interested in travelling and exploring the world. I plan to travel across Australia in the future and make more friends.

Jim TappJim recently moved to Melbourne from New Zealand to commence post graduate law studies at Monash University. He decided to return to study after several years working for a law enforcement agency. Jim is a keen

jogger and swimmer, likes jazz and classical music and is excited to meet everyone at Graduate House.

Woo Jia JunI am originally from Singapore and first came to Australia in 2008 to do my undergrad in Medical Science at UNSW in Sydney. After 3 of the best years of my life, I moved to Melbourne to do the new Doctor of Medicine

program at University of Melbourne. I feel excited to be in the pioneer batch of this newly re-structured medical program that will hopefully be the springboard of a rewarding career. Outside study, I am a huge soccer fan and I go for regular runs at Princes Park.

Sharmila AcharyaI am here from Calgary, Alberta, Canada to pursue my Masters of Environmental Engineering at the University of Melbourne. The Masters program is one year

long. This is my second visit to Melbourne, and this time I look forward to really getting involved with all that the city has to offer, and immerse myself in my studies. Though I am going to miss the end of the hockey season and the ski season back home I look forward to learning how to surf here in Australia. I am also going to see kangaroos, and koalas in the wild while I am here.

FEBRUARY Mr Michael Gawenda Having been a political reporter, a foreign correspondent, a columnist, a feature writer, an editor and an author and not to mention the current Director

of the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Advanced Journalism, there is no dispute that Michael Gawenda has the knowledge and experience to address the Graduate Union’s Monthly Luncheon in his chosen topic of ‘The Future of Journalism’.With shocking figures such as the Washington Post circulation falling 25% in the last 10 years and The New York times not making a profit for 3 years this all begs the question; What has happened? Newspapers were originally the major source of quality journalism. An aggregate of all commercial media journalists and that of the ABC didn’t match the number of people working for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. The public contributed to make this viable as newspapers had a monopoly over advertising. However due to the digital revolution there are other means of advertising and people are suddenly steering away from newspapers and instead migrating to the internet. Not only is it cheaper to advertise but an increase of available information is present online. As a result newspapers overseas such as The Washington Post’s classified section no longer exists and there is no longer a physical Seattle Post in circulation. So what happens to journalism now? It may be that there is no need for concern as there is a necessity for journalism so there will always be a role for it. Michael did however leave us with the question of how high quality journalism will now be paid for. Michael does not have the answer to this but with the University of Melbourne they hope to devise a new economic model to account for this.

MARCH Emeritus Professor Bruce HollowaySpeaking about Genetics of Human Behaviour, Emeritus Professor Bruce Holloway gave insights of the wide variation of genes that affect behaviour

in all living creatures. Changes to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) affect the characteristics in genes and while surviving these changes in a different environment, studies have shown that altered genes emerge. This is the process of evolution. He showed examples of evolution in the changing colours of moths in response to changes in their environment, in changes to bird migration and the genetically acquired skills of spiders who are not taught how to spin webs but are born with this ability. Genes play an important role in human behaviour and account for individual preferences in taste, smell and sight.


RESIDENTS SPEAKERS

(Contd. pg 10)

The reception desk continues to be managed by Diana Moyses. Diana not only welcomes the many residents and guests and watches over our occupancy levels but she also administers the housekeeping team and sets the high standard for the condition of our rooms. Shirley Ho continues to assist all staff and her expertise with the webpage is especially appreciated.Throughout the year housekeepers, Anne Ladkins, Sheila Bevan and Anna Condello ensured accommodation services were maintained to high levels, while Lou Tarquinio and Peter Mercorillo maintained the building and service areas. All have contributed to a smooth working team.Diane Thomas continued as Bookkeeper attending Graduate House on Tuesday and Thursday to deal with the day-to-day accounts.

MEMBERSHIPThere were 1901 members at the end of 2010 of whom 1388 were life members. Over all membership categories, we gained 146 new members in 2010. These were made up of: 63 Residents, six additional Life members, 65 annual, one Associate and 11 Corporate members. At the end of the year, for various reasons, the total number of members was 93 fewer compared to 2009.Member events during the year were generally well attended and new events were introduced, including the ‘Sundays at Graduate House’ music concerts which were well received and will continue in 2011. Thank you to the small group of councillors who thought of this and implemented it.

THE STELLA LANGFORD PROJECTThe Stella Langford Wing was officially opened in March and provides apartments of varying size and style which have been almost fully occupied throughout the year. The additional function and conference facilities have been well utilized, although the car park has yet to reach its full potential.In the past few years the Graduate Union has completed two major constructions which have substantially increased

the value of its assets whilst preserving the heritage values of University Square. Council is continually reviewing our facilities and activities.The future relies on support of our members, the continuing efforts of our staff and good relations with our neighbours including the University.

RESULTS AND REVIEW OF OPERATIONSThe financial statements show total operating revenue of $2,912,089 (last year $2,475,817) with a surplus of $94,239. Revenue includes function and conference income of $559,321 (last year $536,434). Occupancy peaked at 99.21% in March and averaged 93.40% throughout the year.Donations amounted to $26,302 which included an amount of $9000 from the William Berry Post-Graduate Trust.

SUMMARY The Graduate Union experienced another successful year. The outstanding financial results reflect the excellent facilities at Graduate House, which has resulted in sustained high occupancy and a substantial increase in use of the conferencing facilities. The dedication and enthusiasm of the staff has ensured members and residents received outstanding service and value for money. 2011 will mark the centenary year of the Graduate Union and the year will be celebrated with special events including a special Oration on ‘Founders Day’ the 14 July 2011, the day the Melbourne University Graduates Association was formally established in 1911. Significant events after year-end. There have been no significant events, other than those that have been referred to in this report, since 31 December 2010 which may affect the operations or financial position of the Graduate Union.Signed pursuant to a resolution of Council.

Mr David N Sparks Chairman, April 2011



What a lovely day for a winery tour to Tahbilk Winery.

On 17 March a group of residents, members and guests arrived at Graduate House, ready to travel to Nagambie Lakes and in particular to Tahbilk Winery. What a lovely day it was. As we passed the Great Dividing Range the sun shone beautifully through the window of the bus and arriving at the Cellar Doors we were greeted by a very patient and informative Tim Purbrick, a nephew of Eric Purbrick who through perseverance and hard work helped regain Tahbilk Winery’s fine reputation.

During the guided tour of the cellars we learnt about the process of wine making and how it has changed through time. We viewed the “New Cellar” built in 1875, where 20,000 cubic yards of soil was removed

by horse drawn carts. The walls and arch of the New Cellar are made up of seven layers of brick with the arch being self-supporting using no keystone and then covered with sand and earth. The bricks are interlocked as only sand and lime were used to join them together. During this tour it was as if we were walking through time starting in the late 1800’s and completing in the year 2011 in the modern production room.

Lunch was served in the Wetlands café and afterwards we strolled back to the cellar door for some tastings. After indulging ourselves with many wine tastings and purchases, many headed outside to enjoy the sunshine and explore the grounds and wetlands. It was a beautiful and relaxing day had by all.

EVENTS

As a result of the call for nominations published in the February issue of The Melbourne Graduate ten (10) nominations have been received for five (5) positions to be filled. A poll will therefore be held, with voting closing in the registered office of The Graduate Union at 220 Leicester Street, CARLTON, at 4pm on Thursday, 12 May 2011.

A voting paper, a small envelope marked ‘Voting Paper’ and an outer envelope, in which the small envelope containing the voting paper is to be placed, are all enclosed with this newsletter to all members. If you have not received them, please contact the Graduate Union office immediately.

Should you have any privacy concerns, you may, having completed the declaration on the envelope addressed to the Returning Officer, enclose that envelope within a larger plain envelope and address it in the manner identical to that shown on the envelope addressed to the Returning Officer, before posting or delivering to the Returning Officer, as directed on the voting paper.

Personal Information and Policy Statements Submitted by Candidates.

Candidates are listed here, and on the voting paper, in the order in which names were determined by lot in the presence of witnesses. The statements, which follow, have been standardised only by listing the surname first, followed by other names, and the listing of degrees and diplomas and the inclusion of the names of the proposer and seconder of the candidate.

A complete listing of Council membership during any part of 2010 is set out in the introduction to the Chairman’s Report, commencing on page 3.

Four members elected with the most votes in this poll will have terms expiring in May 2014 and the fifth member’s term will expire in May 2013.

- Ronald G Ritchie Returning Officer

OLD STYLE POLITICAL MEETINGAT GRADUATE HOUSE

THURS, 28 APRIL AT 5.30PM FOR 6PM

MEET THE ELECTION CANDIDATES

HEAR THEIR VIEWS & IDEAS FOR THE FUTURE

Drinks & canapés at conclusion. For catering RSVP - 93473428 by Wednesday, 27 April

MCINERNEY, DANIEL*BEc, LLB, MTaxProposer – Jonathan D Forbes Seconder – Kay GulencI am a member of the Victorian Bar and have sat on Council since December 2008. I have enjoyed

the opportunity and challenges of serving on Council enormously and seek your support in continuing to do so into the future.My professional background (combining law and finance) has provided me with the ability to make a valuable contribution to the Council, particularly in the areas of corporate governance and financial management. In this regard, I have initiated or worked closely with the Chair, Mr David Sparks, on a number of governance improvements at the Graduate Union. These initiatives include the strategic review process conducted in 2010, the commencement of a professional business planning process and the introduction of charters for some of the Council’s committees.I look forward to bedding down these initiatives in the coming term, if I am given the opportunity to do so.

CLIFF, MERREN ROSEMARY* BEng(Hons)Proposer – Colin John Cox Seconder – David SparksAs a sitting Councillor, I seek your support to build on the knowledge

and experience gained over the past years to represent the interests of all members and the Union. A university staff member, working within the Research Portfolio, I recognise and value the unique place that this college has within the University. Challenges ahead include maintaining our placement as the leading University postgraduate college (at a time when postgraduate numbers are rapidly increasing under the Melbourne Model), developing clear strategic direction with strong Council governance, expansion and support of the membership base, increased international reciprocity, and increasing awareness of Graduate House as a conference and seminar venue. In our second century, I wish to continue contributing to its strong start and add my knowledge to a relatively new and talented Council. I will be grateful for your support to continue to serve your interests and those of our organisation.




CANDIDATES’ STATEMENTS

GRADUATE UNION COUNCIL ELECTION

(Contd. pg 6)

GENERAL INFORMATION

WEBER, ROSS GRANT BA(Hons), MA, PhDProposer – John Andrew Binns Seconder – David Thomas BellairRoss Weber is currently standing for election on the Graduate Council and has an ongoing interest

in research and postgraduate education. He has taught at the tertiary level in Canada, the UK and Australia, and was an Honorary Associate within the Dept of History at the University of Melbourne (1987-2002). Ross continues a modest research programme privately – having been published both in English and German. While studying at the University of London, Ross was Chairman of the resident’s committee of London House (now Goodenough College) and awarded Honorary Life Fellowship by the Frederick Goodenough Mecklenburgh Sq Trust.Outside of academe Ross has worked in a variety of economic sectors, predominantly within the areas of business process improvement, customer service, systems development and data integrity. He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and serves on a number of not-for-profit boards.

COBBIN, PHILLIP BBus(RMIT), DipEd, BEd, MEd, MCom(Hons)Proposer – David Graham Eyres Seconder – Colin John CoxIn August 2010 I was invited to join the Council of Graduate Union

to fill a casual vacancy. I accepted knowing that my background in auditing and financial accounting might be of value to Council and the Union. I also accepted membership of the Accounting and Audit Committee and the Rules Committee. My short period of service on Council has provided a strong insight into operations of the Union and the need for constant vigilance regarding governance processes in place. The organisation has a remarkable past and can look forward to the future with great anticipation and expectation sure in the knowledge of its place in the wider university community. As the Union enters its second century of operations I am very willing to continue to contribute my skills and expertise, to build on the base of knowledge acquired and hopefully to contribute to the further advancement of the Union.

* GIBSON, ROBERT WILLIAM, MCom(Melb), PhD(CincinnatiProposer – John Andrew Binns Seconder – David Thomas BellairDr Robert Gibson acknowledges the confidence of members

expressed in electing him over the past fifteen years. During that time the Graduate Union has progressed to be a significant Affiliated College of the University of Melbourne. Major building works have enabled the scale of activity to grow. Dr Gibson seeks further support of members to carry this work forward. Dr Gibson agrees that Graduate Council members are bound to accept majority decisions. Nevertheless members of Graduate Council must advocate what they personally perceive as to the benefit of Graduate Union and its members. Your support of Dr Gibson will help achieve further development.

FORBES, JONATHAN DOUGLAS, BEc, LLB, MBAProposer – Daniel McInerney Seconder – Kay GulencThe Graduate Union can look to its second hundred years with a sense

of pride in the past and confidence for the future. As a candidate I bring more than 25 years legal experience, including as an advisor to clubs, associations and their members. I have served on the management board of a major Australian law firm, sat on numerous committees and currently serve as a member of state and national sports tribunals. I am committed to independence, good governance, transparency and financial accountability. It is the role of Council to constantly assess and refine the Union’s strategic direction. The Union’s great heritage and traditions provide a strong platform for renewal. Looking to the future, expanding membership, exciting members with new and innovative service offerings and ensuring a sound financial return on existing infrastructure are important objectives. I look forward to bringing my enthusiasm to a talented committed Council.



Chairman’s Report

(Contd. pg 7)

NEWSLETTER MAILOUTSSeveral volunteers have unexpectedly left our mailout group and we are looking for generous members with time to spare to help us with the

monthly mailout. Please call Lyn Weston on 9347-3428 if you are able to assist on the 3rd Monday each month.

(CANDIDATES STATEMENTS Contd.)




Your Council presents its report on the Association for the year ended 31 December 2010 The names of Graduate Council members are listed below:

PRESIDENTThe Honourable John Cain

VICE-PRESIDENTDr R W Gibson

CHAIRMAN Mr D N Sparks

VICE-CHAIRMANMrs G Fisher

EX-OFFICIO AND NOMINEES OF THE VICE-CHANCELLORMr D ProctorMs K Kapobassis

TWELVE ELECTED MEMBERS UNTIL MAY 2011Ms M Cliff Dr R W Gibson Mr D McInerney Dr A K Roberts Mr P Cobbin (filling casual vacancy)

UNTIL MAY 2012Mr A G Cleghorn Mrs G J Fisher Mr D Eyres Dr C Booth

UNTIL MAY 2013Mr J A Binns Ms C A Kidston Mr D N Sparks Vacancy

NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIESThe principal activities during the year were the conduct of a residential postgraduate college affiliated with the University of Melbourne and the provision of facilities as a University Graduates Club for members of the Graduate Union to enjoy social and intellectual activities. There was no significant change in the nature of these activities during the year.

GRADUATE COUNCILAt all times, the Council is very aware of the trust members place in its integrity and good judgement and acts according

to what it judges to be in the best interests of the Graduate Union. At the Annual General Meeting, it was announced that nominations had been called for the four regular vacancies. Three valid nominations were received and so an election was not required. The successful candidates were J Andrew Binns, Cheryl Kidston and David Sparks, all until May 2013.Later in the year, Mr Phillip Cobbin from the University’s Department of Accounting and Information Systems was recommended as a suitable candidate to fill the resulting casual vacancy until May 2011 and he agreed to do so.At the first meeting of Council in June, Mr David Sparks was elected Chairman, replacing Mr J Andrew Binns who had served as Chair for the preceding three years.Upon taking over the Chair, Mr Sparks organised a two-day retreat for members of Council, the objective being to write a new Mission Statement for the Graduate Union, prepare a strategic plan for the coming year and review the current Policies and Procedures Manual.In November the Vice-Chancellor nominated Ms Katerina Kapobassis as his second representative on Council and she was welcomed at the December meeting of Council. Katerina is Director, University Budget & Divisional Planning and knowledgeable in governance-related matters.

GRADUATE HOUSE STAFFUntil November 2010, Mr Eugene Spanti continued as Head of College and Chief Executive Officer. Council is mindful of Mr Spanti’s role over his 10 years at Graduate House and wish him well in his future endeavours. The Council appointed Mrs Lyn Weston to the senior position in an acting capacity and is very pleased with the seamless manner in which she has stepped into the role while still carrying out her previous responsibilities. Her team leadership style has the staff considering some imaginative ideas. Lyn is supported in her new role by the Council, the Operations Manager, Mr Daniel Clark and all of the staff at Graduate House. A working party of the Council has commenced the task of redefining the role of our senior manager with the objective of obtaining a permanent appointment to the position.During 2010 the conference and function area had a successful year once again. The catering team, namely Chef Robert Goodman, Kitchen Assistants Sujata Mandahar, Basma Tantawy, Marwa Tantawy, Draga Jeftic and Bishal Gauli continued their excellent work for both residents and members. Breakfast Chef, Sujata Mandahar left Graduate House late in the year to return to her home in Nepal. Nelson Hu replaced Sujata as Breakfast chef and is well qualified to assist the senior Chef in all aspects of catering. Conference Supervisor, Rosie Ellul and her team continued to provide friendly and efficient service to conference and events patrons and lunchtime guests and were assisted by members of the catering team when additional staff was required.

Chairman’s Report

(Contd. pg 4)

The Melbourne Graduate April 2011

Documents

Transcript of The Melbourne Graduate April 2011