1UNE Office of Advancement

UNE's first Pharmacy graduates

Regional Australia at War

The newsletter for alumni and supporters of UNE

Volume 1, Issue 1 JUNE 2014 ISSN 2203-8000

HIGH TACKLE

FRONTLINE

MOVING IN

LONDON CALLING

'The Coach' comes to UNE

Regional Australia at War

The new Wright College

Alumni dinner

unique

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What's in a name?

The study experience for UNE students has many facets, whether as a distance education student, college or town resident, part time or full time student. Within our communities, collaborations and partnerships with UNE have distinctive identities. Each experience and situation is unique.

With this refresh of the alumni newsletter, we have taken inspiration from your many perspectives of UNE. We hope you enjoy this first edition of 'unique'.

unique

3UNE Office of Advancement

UNE IT building

4

Dear Alumni and friends

The Hon John Watkins has recently resigned from his position of Chancellor of UNE. Since his appointment to this role in April last year, John has been a passionate advocate for UNE especially during a period of enormous change in the sector.

It has been a privilege to have him as our Chancellor. He has played a significant role in shaping the current direction of UNE and will be missed.

Dr Geoff Fox, the Deputy Chancellor, will chair the Council until the election of a new Chancellor. Dr Fox is a UNE graduate and has a long association with the University-he is the Chair of the UNE Foundation and has been on the University Council since 2010. He will be able to provide stability and oversee the governance of the university during this time.

The search for a new Vice-Chancellor at the University of New England is well underway, with an executive recruitment firm engaged to expand the search on the international stage. UNE is seeking a leader who can build on the University’s strong financial position and achieve further growth in both on-campus and online enrolments and in quality research output.

The qualities we are looking for include an open, transparent and constructive leadership style to effectively work with our academic and professional staff to further build the University’s research and teaching capabilities.

We are seeking someone who will understand UNE’s key strengths, recognise the University is a key part of a vibrant local and regional community and who has a vision to continue our recent growth and build a strong future in the global Higher Education sector. In the interim, we are not standing still.

Over the past four years, there has been a particular focus on ensuring that UNE not only survived the removal of caps on student numbers, but capitalised on the opportunity this represented. This required an emphasis on the ‘business’ side of the University.

It is now time to return our focus to academia, on our students, our academics, our teaching and our research. To that end, I have implemented a restructure of Senior Executive positions at UNE to bring a renewed refocus on our research, teaching and learning role. I believe this was the right moment to reallocate portfolios and responsibilities, allowing time for the restructure to settle into place prior to a new permanent Vice-Chancellor being appointed.

vC

5UNE Office of Advancement

I have made moves to strengthen UNE’s Senior Executive by adding two senior academic leadership roles to it: the Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) Academic and the PVC Research.

This means we now have four academics within the Senior Executive, and four other members representing the service side of the University. It is my intention and hope that this structure will ensure that academic ideals, experience and expertise are supported by innovative business management practices in order to ensure a more holistic decision-making process.

Already, the new Senior Executive is working very well together and we are engaging in productive and pragmatic discussion and planning in order to make sure that UNE continues to go from strength to strength into the future, for the benefit of all current students, prospective students, alumni and staff members.

Finally, the recent Federal Budget has confirmed the expected tightening of the fiscal reins by the Government. The tertiary sector faces significant change, those with university aspirations and their families are understandably concerned at the likely increased cost of a university education.

There is little doubt that the reduction in government contributions to course fees, coupled with the move to increase the interest charged on student loans, will have a significant impact on the cost of a university degree for students. I believe that open access to education is one of the greatest contributions to society and the individual that we can offer.

Despite the difficulties on the horizon, there may be a silver lining for the University of New England and the regions in retaining more of our regional students and even attracting more students from metropolitan areas.

For the past decade, UNE has consistently rated five stars for student experience and graduate outcomes in the Good Universities Guide, while the quality of teaching in our specialty fields equals or surpasses the best of Australia’s older metropolitan universities. Price does not reflect quality.

I would conclude by encouraging all UNE alumni to remind any students with tertiary aspirations not to be disheartened at the higher long term cost of your degree. UNE aims to educate the whole person not only as experts in their field, but as engaged and informed citizens. The benefit both to society and to the individual through education is undeniable.

Annabelle Duncan / Vice-Chancellor

ANNABELLE DUNCAN

It is now time to return our focus to academia,

on our students, our academics, our teaching and our research.

Annabelle Duncan

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The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has the power to change society according to the Chair, Dr Bruce Bonyhady AM, who recently presented a well-attended public seminar at UNE. His lecture, titled ‘The transformational reform of our time: the NDIS and lessons for change.’ explained why the NDIS was an idea that had reached its time. He described it as "a nation-building reform like the Hydro-electric scheme, that has combined compassion with economic sense”.   The NDIS shifts power to individuals, including people living with disability, their carers and their families in a financially sustainable way, and that this control and choice will drive a new marketplace for how services are delivered. The NDIS moves away from a deficit-based approach to building the supports that people need to maintain loving relationships and productive lives.   In describing the lessons learnt as the NDIS has come into being, he said that language framed the debate

– the clever use of the slogan ‘every Australian counts’ highlighted the broken nature of the old disability system, and indicated that the NDIS would create an insurance scheme that is relevant to ALL Australians not just people with disability. Disability came to be understood as an

economic issue with the Productivity Commission, which concluded that the benefits of the NDIS would outweigh the costs. The ways in which the NDIS campaign united people with disability, carers and service providers certainly made the change possible.

This campaign importantly used technology to tell stories, and made use of instant communication to

lobby politicians as they entered meetings to allocate resources and lend support.  

The lecture may be viewed at: une.edu.au/ndis-lessons and slides downloaded from the same page.

After the lecture, Dr Bonyhady and his wife, Rae, joined alumni, staff and students at a dinner hosted by the UNE Alumni Association, Armidale. He engaged attendees with stories about his forebears living in “good living street” in Vienna at the turn of the 20th century and how their world changed drastically leading up to WW2. Relatives, including his mother, migrated to Australia and eventually to Armidale and so began the Bonyhady connection to UNE.

Dr Bonyhady is a distinguished graduate of

UNE, having achieved first class honours

and a University Medal. He was recognised

with a Distinguished Alumni Award in 2013.

Transformational reform of our time

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

has the power to change society

George Battese, Jennifer Rindfleish, Bruce Bonyhady, Michael Stuckey

7UNE Office of Advancement

high

View the video trailer at: thecoach.cc/#!video/cceq

For further information contact: David Schmude | P 02 6773 3071 E: dschmud2@une.edu.au

Hosted by Rugby League super coach, Ricky Stuart, The Coach will air on Fox Sport and will be filmed over a 10 week period, with production planned to take place in October 2014. Athletes from across Australia, Asia and The Pacific’s brightest young talents will compete for a highly sought after NRL contract.

UNE Life’s Director, David Schmude, said, “This joint bid from Armidale Dumaresq Council and UNE was successful because of the state-of-the–art sporting and campus facilities at UNE, in addition to the proximity to national parks and Armidale’s reputation as a thriving regional centre.”

“The reality TV Show will be a vehicle to showcase UNE’s sporting academic programs and facilities as well as its on-campus college experience, with the contestants and crew staying at the new Wright College. Armidale is in an enviable position for a regional centre, with sporting facilities that rival many of the big cities in Australia.”

Hundreds of rugby league hopefuls have rushed to nominate for The Coach, a new reality TV program to be filmed in Armidale and on campus at UNE. 

tackle

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As part of New England History Week 2014, and to coincide with the centenary of the First World War, the University of New England is hosting a public conference on ‘Regional Australia at War’.

Both academics and members of the public have been invited to participate by presenting papers and joining discussions on the regional Australian experience of war, including both the experiences of service personnel in the armed forces and of civilians on the home front. Professor Bruce Scates will present the Annual Russel Ward lecture on 14 August as part of the conference.

The conference has an intentionally broad scope to encourage participation on the broader Australian experience of war throughout conflicts in the past and present and forms part of various activities taking place during New England History Week 11-17 August 2014. For more information: frontlinenewengland.org.au

33rd Battalion, Armidale 1916, UNE Archives

Regional Australia at War

A vacancy exists for a member of Convocation to join the Standing Committee of Convocation. The primary function of the Standing Committee is to provide an avenue for communication between Convocation and the University, for mutual benefit. Details about the role of the Committee are available on the UNE web site: une.edu.au/convocation

As meetings may be attended by teleconference, you do not need to be living in Armidale to be a member of the Committee. Members of Convocation interested in being considered for the vacancy are invited to contact the Chair, Dr Jack Hobbs: jhobbs4@une.edu.au

have your say

9UNE Office of Advancement

Dr Amanda Kennedy

UNE graduate and Deputy Director,

Australian Centre

for Agriculture and Law

Wendy DiMonte, President SACUNE joining other alumni at a

special cocktail event at Government House, hosted by UNE

alumnus, His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR

Dr Amanda Kennedy, UNE graduate and Deputy Director, Australian Centre for Agriculture and Law, UNE Law School, recently presented a breakfast seminar in Adelaide on ‘Environmental justice in land use decisions: the case of coal and coal seam gas’. This very topical presentation, to attendees who had a business, professional or personal connection to the issue, addressed the intensifying conflict over land use, particularly where coal mining and coal seam gas extraction developments are under contemplation.

Such conflicts are often intractable, and existing regulatory and policy approaches have struggled to alleviate the disputes. Using examples from NSW, where many argue that the relevant legal and political framework prefers development interests and minimises opportunities for genuine public participation in land use decisions-ultimately failing to recognise those who bear the cost of any environmental and social harms, she engaged the audience in understanding the political and legal dimensions of these disputes and impressed attendees with her breadth of knowledge on the subject.

This is the second year that the South Australian Chapter of UNE alumni (SACUNE) has sponsored such an event during Law Week, using expertise from UNE’s School of Law. Like to connect with alumni in South Australia? Please email alumni@une.edu.au

SACUNESOUTH AUSTRALIAN CHAPTER OF UNE ALUMNI

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MH Premium

Farms

mhpremiumfarms.com

"UNE’s reputation in producing

graduates who service Australian

agriculture is well known and being

based right here in Armidale, of course we

chose to support UNE"

NEW SCHOLARSHIP DONOR SNAPSHOT

11UNE Office of Advancement

What is MH Premium Farms?

MH Premium Farms is the trading name of the agricultural investment entity in Australia of the Michael Hintze Pension Fund (MHPF), the beneficiary of which is the Hintze family. Sir Michael Hintze AM, is an Australian residing in the United Kingdom.

The agricultural operations of the group are managed by Growth Farms Australia, a specialised farm management service.

MHPF has acquired a diverse portfolio of properties producing:

• fat lambs, wool and cattle,

• broad acre cropping of cereals and oilseeds, and

• irrigated cotton and sugar.

So why did you decide to fund a scholarship at UNE?

"In a move to address a shortage of agronomists, and agriculture graduates more generally who may go on to service Australian agriculture, M H Premium Farms funds an undergraduate scholarship for a student commencing 2nd year and studying Rural Science or Agriculture at the University of New England. It encourages the recipient of the award, upon graduation, to pursue a career in agronomy in Australia. UNE’s reputation in producing graduates who service Australian agriculture is well known and being based right here in Armidale, of course we chose to support UNE.”

I understand you also offer work experience to the successful

recipient of your scholarship. What kind of experiences can you provide?

"Yes. We see it as an important part of the scholarship that the recipient would be willing to work for at least eight weeks of the summer break on MHPF farms, most likely in North West NSW. This work experience opportunity would be split among the different farms giving experience in a range of locations and operations and exposure to management decisions when accompanying our agricultural advisers. It would include spending time with the agronomists when they come onto the properties. The type of work experience could also be tailored to fit in with the normal rules of the UNE School for the completion of work experience/field work."

NEW SCHOLARSHIP DONOR SNAPSHOT

Directors Chris Cull & Austin Rummery with the inagural recipient of the MH Premium Farms scholarship, Shae Parsons

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Meet your UNE colleagues in London

There are University of New England students, graduates and former staff living and travelling the world. This is an opportunity to meet people with UNE connections in the London area.

Your hostess for the evening is Marianne Young. She is a graduate of the University, is on the Standing Committee of Convocation of the UNE and is also a member and past President of the South Australian Chapter of the UNE Alumni Association. Marianne will be touring in Cornwall and Glasgow, so please contact her if you are going to be in those areas at the end of July.

Where is the Old Thameside Inn?

Nearest station is London Bridge. It is on Clink Street, London SE1. The Old Thameside Inn is on the South Bank between London Bridge

and Southwark Bridge and immediately adjacent to (western side) The Golden Hind sailing ship. In former times it was a spice store.

Look for the (discreet) UNE sign. Subject to the weather and popularity of the pub on the evening, we will gather on the outdoor terrace immediately next to the Golden Hind or in the basement.

Please rsvp by 15/07/14 if you are interested in the idea of meeting up with people connected to the University of New England in London or elsewhere in the UK and advise whether or not you can join us on the 17 July.

Email: marianne.young001@ gmail.com

Pub's website: nicholsonspubs.co.uk theoldthamesideinnlondonbridge/findus

London calling

Thursday, 17 July 20145:30 to 8 pmOld Thameside InnClink Street SE1

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Autumn graduation this year for pharmacy graduates was a very special occasion. They are the first cohort to graduate with a pharmacy degree from UNE, having had the benefit of a purpose-built building during their studies and also the option of studying by distance.

The course is accredited by the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency which means that students become registered pharmacists on completion of their intern year. In another boost for the reputation of the course, Callan Beesley was named NSW Pharmacy Student of the Year, and Rachel Tarrant was the highest pharmacy academic achiever in 2013.

For more information about the course, go to: une.edu.au/about-une/academic-schools/school-of-science-and-technology

MEASURING UP

Many Earle Page College alumni will remember being involved in fundraising for the Children's Medical Research Institute. The Coast Run began in 1980 and has continued to this day. Currently, the College Musical Society is hard at work putting together this year’s production of Into the Woods which retells some of the classic brothers Grimm fairytales.

Two of the leads gave a taste of the production at this year’s Fashion Parade, performing the Little Red Riding Hood and Wolf duet.

For more information about how you might continue to be involved, please contact the College: epc@une.edu.au

Little Red and the Wolf performing at this year’s Fashion Parade

Earle Page College fundraising still going strong

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A distinctive self-portrait of famous Australian artist Arthur Boyd has been gratefully received by the University. The artwork Figure sitting in rushes was donated by Dr Lynn Joseph in memory of his nephew, UNE and Earle Page College alumnus Andrew Joseph, and is displayed in Dixson Library.

Sadly, Dr Joseph passed away before seeing the portrait hung but several members of the Joseph family travelled from Sydney and other regional areas of NSW to attend a recognition ceremony. John Watkins said the addition of the Boyd self portrait to the University’s collection would long serve as an inspirational influence to UNE students.

“The artwork itself is significant, not only as a valuable piece by a highly-regarded Australian artist, but more so because it is so revealing about the artist himself,” Mr Watkins said. “Painted at a time when Arthur Boyd was questioning his very calling and even his own great talent, it illustrates the lesson that can be drawn from the imagery and from Arthur Boyd’s own life. “I hope the portrait might serve to remind UNE students that although we all question ourselves from time to time,

we still have a valuable contribution to make to society and to our community. “I am sure Andy Joseph, in whose memory this artwork was given, met with days of confusion and self-doubt. Yet the values instilled in him by his own family, and throughout his time here at UNE, all contributed to make him a successful businessman and generous member of the University's extended community.”

Arthur Boyd: artgallery.nsw.gov.au/collection/works/

Former Chancellor, the Hon John Watkins and the Joseph Family at the event.

Arthur Boyd Figure sitting in rushes donated by Dr Lynn Joseph

Revealingportrait

15UNE Office of Advancement

Sharon Hodgetts is doing her dream job-managing, surveying and assessing development impacts on Aboriginal sites. A Wiradjuri woman originally from the central west of NSW, she is now located on the central coast working for the Darkinjung LALC as their Cultural and Heritage Project Officer.

After completing some study in conservation and land management, she enrolled as a distance education student in UNE’s Diploma in Indigenous Archaeology. She had previously completed consultancy work for the LALC, and this formal qualification led to a full time position and strengthened her expertise in environmental matters-helpful when appearing before the Land and Environment Court.

Sharon undertakes field work to identify Aboriginal sites of significance and completes exploration and reporting on behalf of developers to ensure there aren’t any Aboriginal sites within the

development zones. She is also involved in the protection of sites through co-operation with National Parks, State Forests, local councils and private land holders.

She is encouraged by the fact that more and more Aboriginal people are re-connecting with their heritage. “It’s great to see an increased self-esteem and sense of self-worth through regaining what’s been lost for so many Indigenous people.” She is passionate about helping others to understand more about Indigenous culture and heritage and does this through educational presentations.

While she is a busy person with work and family commitments-like many of UNE’s distance education students-she is, nevertheless, contemplating further study. “After getting over what I thought would be a daunting first residential school, I realised that I could cope with the demands of study. I’m looking forward to my next challenge.”

LOOKING OUT FOR OUR LAND

SHARON HODGETTS

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Scholar Program

Robert Evered studied an 8-week intensive language course in Xi’an at Shaanxi Normal University

VICE-CHANCELLOR’S

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The University of New England introduced a new program in 2013 to recognise and reward academic achievement amongst undergraduate students. The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Program is the University’s way of acknowledging both on-campus and off-campus students who have achieved outstanding results with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 6.7 or above after completing at least four units of study at UNE.

UNE recognised 150 Vice-Chancellor’s Scholars, from across the whole university, in the inaugural year of the program. Vice-Chancellor’s Scholars can be of any age and at any stage of their degree. Of the first group of recipients, 68 students are studying full time and 82 part-time, while 39 students are on-campus and the remaining 111 study by distance education. Students come from across Australia and some are living overseas.

Vice-Chancellor’s Scholars were eligible to apply for two competitive awards: the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Engagement Award (worth up to $4000) and the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Academic Development Award (worth up to $1000), to contribute towards additional professional development opportunities outside their degree programs. There were 7 recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Engagement Awards and 5 recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Academic Development Awards.

To date, Vice-Chancellor’s Scholars have used their awards for activities ranging from intensive engineering and language courses in Germany, Japan and China to attending industry conferences from Malaysia to Singapore and France. They also attended conferences and courses in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Governance Committee is seeking suggestions from UNE alumni as to how they feel they could contribute to the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar program to give our Scholars opportunities to complement their courses or help to enrich their time at university.

Further information on the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar program is available at: une.edu.au/vc-scholar or email vcscholars@une.edu.au.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Program is the University’s way of acknowledging both on-campus and off-campus students who have achieved outstanding results.

SCHOLAR PROGRAM

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James Ley has been awarded this year’s Pascall Prize, Australia's only major national prize awarded for critical writing.

This annual prize is awarded to an Australian critic whose work over the previous 12 to 18 months has contributed significantly to public debate, appreciation, enjoyment and understanding of a particular branch of the arts.

As recipient of this Prize, Ley is named 'Australian Critic of the Year' and awarded $15,000.

In his acceptance speech, James said he was drawn to study literature because it represented the “beating heart of the humanities”. When he was studying at UNE in the 90s, arts students were regularly reminded by their peers of the “uselessness” of their studies. It was this very “uselessness”-the conspicuous lack of any clear practical function- that made literature appealing to him as a subject. He firmly believes that criticism’s obligation is to talk about literature and all forms of art and as if they matter, and in doing so remind us why they matter.

Ley is the editor of the Sydney Review of Books, an online review site focusing on Australian writers and writing sydneyreviewofbooks.com His most recent publication is The Critic in the Modern World bloomsbury.com/au/the-critic-in-the-modern-world-9781623569310/

Crit

icis

m

mat

ters

As recipient of this Prize, Ley is named 'Australian

Critic of the Year' and awarded $15,000

19UNE Office of Advancement

On Thursday 22nd May, the University of New England presented approximately $7.1m worth of scholarships to 122 undergraduate and 114 postgraduate students at a ceremony attended by student recipients and their guests, scholarship donors and members of the UNE community.

Scholarships were presented to students in a wide range of academic and extra-curricular pursuits; with many scholarships directly supporting students from rural and regional areas and those from low socio economic backgrounds.

Eve Woodberry, Academic Registrar of UNE, who oversaw proceedings on the night explained: “The annual scholarship presentation ceremony is a wonderful opportunity for us to recognise the hard work and dedication of our students, as well as the great generosity of the scholarship donors. This financial support assists students to focus on their studies and reach their potential. Each and every one of the recipients should be very proud of their achievement in being awarded a scholarship.”

Kodie Noy, recipient of the Keith Entwistle Honours Scholarship which is funded by the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI), is completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours, and expressed his gratitude to the scholarship donors for making his research possible.

“Supporting yourself while doing research can be very difficult, because it takes up the time of a full-time job,” Mr Noy said. “I work with nocturnal animals, which means I can’t even get a night job to support myself during my studies. I am so appreciative that people are willing to give me such great support while I complete my research.”

Cyclists Kirby Knowles and Geoff Straub both received a New England Mutual Sporting Scholarship, which recognises their outstanding sporting ability. Both athletes said the scholarships go a long way in helping them to balance their studies and their sport. “I race anywhere between 50 and 100 days a year, so any help I can get is really appreciated,” Mr Straub said.

Photographs from the event can be found at: flickr.com/photos/unepix/sets/72157644609367487/

For more information about donations to UNE Scholarships, please contact the Office of Advancement on (02) 6773 2870 or email advance@une.edu.au.

UNE Scholarship Recipients and Donors Recognised

SCHOLARSHIPS

Geoff Straub and Kirby Knowles and with New England Mutual's Dane O'Connor (centre)

I work with nocturnal animals, which means I can’t even get a night job

to support myself during my studies. I am so appreciative that people are willing to give me such great support while I complete my research.”

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21UNE Office of Advancement

Great tour of China

In Beijing students will meet with economic advisors and Government officials before visiting a farm which produces 80,000 cattle and 200,000 sheep each year. In Shandong Province students will be able to experience the enormity of a 60,000 hectare vegetable farm which exports vegetables worldwide. The tour will incorporate visits to manufacturers as well as identifying the power of small business enterprise in China.

The tour will also include a visit to Hong Kong, where students will be involved in trade and business meetings in the financial industry.

Professor Alison Sheridan, Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at UNE, said the tour will be an opportunity for students to broaden their understanding of the economic world around them.

“This exciting initiative of the Business School demonstrates UNE’s commitment to educating students who are globally active,” Professor Sheridan said.

“We are very grateful to the donors who have given to this priority project through the UNE Foundation. Their financial support assists students to take part in this exciting program.”

Dr Lou Conway, one of the Business School academics accompanying the tour, said the value of the learning opportunity for business students will be profound.

“Students will see the relevance of what they learn in their degrees and they may identify career opportunities that they may not have otherwise considered possible.”

If you would like to meet with students while they are in Beijing, Shanghai or Hong Kong, please contact Mr Allastair Hall on +61 2 67732604 or ahall4@une.edu.au or Dr Lou Conway on +61 2 67733919 or mconway@une.edu.au

This exciting initiative of the Business School demonstrates UNE’s commitment to educating students who are globally active

In November, fifteen UNE students will have the opportunity to go on the study tour of a lifetime in China. During the eleven day tour, the students will be immersed in intercultural learning, particularly in relation to business development opportunities in one of the world’s fastest growing economic powers.

STUDY TOUR

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23UNE Office of Advancement

UNE scholars and scientists have established international reputations through their contributions in areas such as rural science, agricultural economics, educational administration, linguistics and archaeology. Through its research UNE assists in the economic, social and cultural advancement of Australia and in the advanced training of undergraduate and postgraduate students.

UNE aims to be Australia’s university of choice for research  into regional issues of global significance. Our reputation for high-quality research is reflected in our involvement in seven national Cooperative Research Centres, two of which are based on the UNE campus. The University also houses a large number of specialised research centres, including centres of national and international significance such as the Australian Centre for Agriculture and Law (AgLaw Centre) and the National Centre of Science, ICT and Mathematics Education for Rural and Regional Australia (SiMERR National Centre).

Research at UNE is underpinned by five thematic research priorities:

1. Australia’s future food and water security - smart science, smart technology

2. Climate change and environmental sustainability - protecting biodiversity, effective policies

3. Health and wellbeing in rural communities - social exclusion, health inequity, mental health, social policy

4. Our past, present and future - Australia’s regional history, regional memory, regional identity; protection and promotion of cultural heritage

5. Our communities, our neighbours - regional and rural development, sustainability, prosperity and peace.

In future editions of Unique we look forward to featuring research projects in each of these key priority areas. For more information about Research at UNE please visit: une.edu.au/research

TOP5UNE RESEARCH PRIORITIES

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WRIGHT COLLEGE

The new Wright College at UNE has welcomed the first students through its freshly installed doors. The first group of 33 students unpacked their bags in the state-of-the-art residence, and more will be joining them in the coming months.

Despite being UNE’s newest residence, Wright College has a long history as the new incarnation of the original Wright College which stood on the same location. The exciting new buildings, which are spacious and filled with natural light, will offer students modern facilities as well as a strong link to UNE’s collegiate heritage.

Wright College provides students with self-contained living in either studio or one-bedroom apartments. Each of the buildings has common spaces which will allow students to come together for social and academic purposes. In addition, students will be living at the college all year round, including during university breaks.

Head of College, Caroline Pflaumer-Winter, said that the response to the new college has been excellent.

“It is wonderful to have welcomed this group of students into the first completed block of Wright College,” Ms Pflaumer-Winter said.

“We have been extremely happy with the strong demand for the apartments, which allow students to enjoy independent living, while still having all the benefits of being on-campus.

“We already have a very diverse group of domestic and international residents who are studying across a wide range of disciplines, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level.”

In a nod to their shared name and shared history, Wright College will join forces with Wright

Village to establish a joint residential association with an election occurring in Trimester 2.

“Wright College & Village will work in partnership, particularly concerning the social welfare and academic programing of the residents. It means that new Wright College residents will join an already strong and supportive community.

“In addition, the support shown by members of the Wright College alumni has been fantastic, and we look forward to further developing the Wright College community in the spirit of its predecessor.”

If you are interested in touring the Wright College or any of the colleges at UNE please contact the Future Students team to set up a tour: 02 6773 5001.

Moving in

25UNE Office of Advancement

ROBB COLLEGE

In January the UNE Council approved to spend $3.0m on fixing-up the interior of Robb’s residential Courts. Half will be spent on fire-compliance requirements, the rest on carpets, painting and other cosmetics. The Robb Foundation Association wish to match the UNE funds to bring forward the development of the College to a quality to meet the current and future accommodation demands of students. It also wishes to leave a perpetual fund that will help to underpin the College’s scholarships and secure its future.

Donations to the Robb Appeal are tax-deductible with special accounts established with the UNE Foundation ensuring the funds will be spent on Robb. For further information you can go to the Robb Foundation website: robbfoundation.com

The Robb Community is swidespread throughout Australia and Internationally. Over the last 18 months a great deal of support has been generated from news of the College’s future developments not only as a building but also as a focus for so many who regard

themselves proudly as “Robbers”. The Robb Alumni now feel the time is right to mobilize this support into a more formal group to be known as the Robb College Alumni Association (RCAA). The Association will operate in conjunction with the University of New England (UNE) Alumni but with a focus on Robb College.

Over the next few months we will be communicating with as many ex Robbers as we can to let them know of the plans for the College and the relaunch of the Alumni. We are in the planning stage for several functions (Robbers love a gathering) to get things started and we encourage you to contact Geoff Perry gsperry@bigpond.com or Hugh Sutherland hughsutherland@bigpond.com so we can keep in touch.

Robb roundup

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Snippets from the School of HumanitiesARTS IN THE PUB / The School has established a regular Arts in the Pub series. One of the main aims of this series is to forge links between UNE and the New England community, and to entertain and engage people with some of the 'lighter' aspects of UNE research and work. The first series in 2014 saw presentations on a range of popular topics, such as Ancient Roman drinking habits, attitudes towards drunkenness and temperance in Australia, crime-scene staging, and attitudes towards fashions. Events are usually the first Tuesday of the month, upstairs at the White Bull in Armidale from 7 pm.

UNDERSTANDING PEACE / Peace is possible. Not only possible, but an inherent part of what makes us human. That’s the point Michael Allen Fox, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at the University of New England, makes in his new book, Understanding Peace: A Comprehensive Introduction. Professor Fox says there is a strong case to make that in examining human societies, it is peace that is the norm rather than conflict and violence.

This new book examines historical accounts of war and peace, war myths, as well as the many onerous costs of war. He also tackles philosophical arguments surrounding violence, aggression and non-violence, and the ethics of war-making, as well as the ways in which we can move forward to build a culture of peace.

MEDIEVAL HISTORY / The teaching of medieval history has taken on a new focus with the appointment of Dr Thomas Fudge to the staff. He is especially interested in heresy, deviance, crusades, witch hunting, law, theology, movements of reform, Martin Luther, iconography, and alternative ways of understanding medieval history. He is a specialist on Jan Hus and Hussite history.

Would you like to discuss in person details of postgraduate certificates, diplomas, masters and doctorates in all disciplines?

This is a once-a-year opportunity to elaborate on your specific needs face-to-face with staff, to gather the most current details or to make the final well-informed decision, all at a convenient single event.

2 Sep 2014

Sydney Sydney Town Hall Level 1, Centennial Hall, Corner of Druitt and George Streets, Sydney (483 George Street, Sydney) 12pm - 7pm

4 Sep 2014

Brisbane Brisbane City Hall Adjacent to King George Square, Brisbane, Adelaide and Ann Streets 12noon - 7pm

9 Sep 2014

Canberra National Convention Centre National Convention Centre Level 1, Murray Room, 31 Constitution Avenue, Canberra 12noon - 7pm

11 Sep 2014

Adelaide Adelaide Town Hall Adelaide Town Hall Level 1, Auditorium 128 King William Street, Adelaide 12noon - 7pm

16 Sep 2014

Melbourne Melbourne Town Hall Level 1, Grand Ballroom (Main Hall), Corner Swanston & Collins Streets, Melbourne (90-120 Swanston Street, Melbourne) 12noon - 7pm

18 Sep 2014

Perth Perth Town Hall Corner of Hay and Barrack Streets, Perth 12noon - 7pm

MBA & Postgrad Studies Expos

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UNE’s FutureCampus will be hosting the following Chamber of Commerce Business Before 9 Breakfasts. They will commence at 7.00am in the lecture room located on level 1 at 232 Church Street, Parramatta. More specific details will be available closer to the time.

17 July Red tape business essentials – are you complying?

21 August Privacy Act and using people’s data – privacy law reform, what’s changed?

18 September Intellectual property – are you safeguarding your assets?

16 October Work Health and Safety - what’s new?

UNE gives a number of awards each year to outstanding alumni in recognition of their service to the University, their professions and the community:

Distinguished Alumni Award

Distinguished Graduate Fellow of the University

Young Distinguished Alumni

Alumni Achievement

If you know graduates who deserve one of these awards, why not nominate them? You can find details of how to nominate, who is eligible to nominate, who is eligible to receive these awards, and information on previous recipients at: une.edu.au/award-criteria or contact the Alumni Relations Officer on 02 6773 3365.

The next round of nominations close 30 July 2014.

alumni awardsKnow someone who deserves a distinguished alumni award?

beforebreakfast

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7-28 July 2014 UNE Council elections

In the event that more than two nominations are received for graduate positions, voting will take place electronically via secret ballot. If you wish to vote and have not received an email notice, please email: graduateelections@une.edu.au

17 July 2014 London Calling

Alumni in the London area are invited to an informal dinner at Old Thameside Inn.

17 July 2014 Business before 9

Red tape essentials

18 July 2014 Let’s Hang it

The UNE School Acquisitive Art Prize was established by the School of Education to encourage talented young artists in schools across regional New South Wales. The an-nual exhibition held at the New England Regional Art Mu-seum (NERAM) exhibits the work of over 60 finalists with the winners announced on opening night. The first prize Infants, Primary, Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary artworks become part of the UNE Art Collection displayed in the School of Education.

30 July 2014 Nominations close for alumni awards

1 August 2014 Michael Kirby seminar

The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG - one of Australia’s longest serving High Court judges - will be present a public lecture as part of the School of Law’s Kirby Seminar series. The lecture will be video conferenced to the Parramatta Future Campus.

11-17 August 2014 New England History Week

New England History Week has been timed to coincide with the centenary of the First World War, and will include a ‘Regional Australia at War’ public conference on 14-15 August. The second day of the conference will focus on the history of the New England region during wartime.

More information on the Frontline New England website

13 August 2014 Frontline Exhibition

The launch coincides to the day with the centenary of the launch of the Australian Red Cross in 1914. The Booloominbah homestead served as a convalescent home for wounded and returned soldiers during the First World War. During the course of this event, Booloominbah will exhibit a collection of historical items and narratives that document the history of the homestead during its time as a convalescent home.

14 August 2014 Russel Ward lecture

This lecture honours the memory and legacy of one of the University’s most renowned scholars, Emeritus Professor Russel Braddock Ward.  It will be delivered by Professor Bruce Scates as part of the “Regional Australia at War” conference.

16 August 2014 SACUNE Alumni Association AGM

The AGM will commence at 10.00 am at the City Library and be followed by a guided historical walking tour of the city.

21 August 2014 Business before 9

Privacy Act and using people’s data

2-18 September 2014 MBA and Postgrad Expos

What's on

EVENT CALENDAR

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11 Sep 2014 Frank Archibald lecture

This lecture honours Mr Frank Archibald, a revered Aboriginal community member of the Armidale area. He was renowned for his knowledge and interest in all issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly education.

18 September 2014 Business before 9

Intellectual property

10 October 2014 UNE Tablelands Clinical School launch

The UNE Tablelands Clinical School will have the benefit of a purpose-built building in the grounds of the Armidale Hospital. The School offers vertical integration of teaching, research and professional practice and will continue to build strong relationships with Tablelands communities.

10 October 2014 SACUNE visit Jurlique biodynamic farm

Following the farm visit in the Adelaide Hills, lunch will be at Hahndorf.

16 October 2014 Business before 9

Work, health and safety

EVENT CALENDAR

150 years of ArmidaleIn 2013, Armidale NSW turned 150. A book has been published that documents the area’s history in short essays supported by an extensive range of images.

'Armidale 150 years’ was written by over 60 volunteers, each with a special interest in some aspects of the development of the region since early settlement. For more information, and to order a copy, please visit armidale150.com

For more details about these and other events, please visit: une.edu.au/connect/events or alumni.une.edu.au/events

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une.edu.au

Office of Advancement

Ground FloorTC Lamble BuildingUniversity of New ENglandArmidale NSW 2351P: 02 6773 2870advance@une.edu.au

Publication InformationPublished by the University of New EnglandABN 75 792 454 315Published June 2014ISSN 2203-8000

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