February 24 -March 3, 2005
Message from Rector
The Research Network for a Secure Australia is meeting here this week (24 February) and is giving UNSW@ADFA wide exposure to a very diverse group of researchers. I would like to congratulate Professor Joseph Lai and all those who contributed to the Forum and to the successful application for ARC Research Network funding.
A group of Senior Managers and Heads of Schools met with military counterparts at Crackenback for two days (17&18 February). Under the Agreement, the close working relationship between UNSW@ADFA and the Military Component continues to develop. From my experience we now enjoy a closer working relationship that we ever have had. I would like to thank those on both sides who have contributed to cooperative spirit that exists.
With lectures starting next week I am sure that everyone is busy preparing. I have met the new first year students in a number of fora and am very impressed by their maturity and commitment to ADFA. I am sure that they will do well in their studies. I am looking forward to an exciting academic year.
Professor John Baird
Rector
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UNSW appoints new research head
11 February 2005
The University of New South Wales has announced the appointment of Professor Leslie (Les) Field as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research).
Professor Field is currently Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Sydney, where he has also served in a number of senior roles including Acting Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) and Head of the School of Chemistry.
In a distinguished academic career, Professor Field has worked at the University of Southern California and at the University of Oxford as a Research Fellow.
He has been awarded the Rennie Medal, the Edgeworth David Medal and the Organic Chemistry Medal for his research. Professor Field is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.
UNSW Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark Wainwright said Professor Field is an outstanding appointment as DVC Research.
"I am delighted we have attracted someone of the calibre of Les Field to head up our research endeavour," Professor Wainwright said.
"He will provide the dynamic leadership needed to ensure that we build on our success in this area and achieve our vision of establishing UNSW as one of the world's leading research universities."
Professor Wainwright expressed his great appreciation of the efforts of Professor Ian Petersen, from UNSW@ADFA, who has been acting in the DVC position since mid-2004.
Professor Field takes up his appointment at UNSW at the end of March.
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CSIRO Student Research Scheme
Have you ever wondered, if it is worth to put in extra work and participate as a supervisor in the Student Research Scheme organised by CSIRO ? Getting student feedback like the letter below might help stir up your enthusiasm for this outreach activity.
"Hi
How are things? I just thought I'd send you a letter to let you know what I've been up to. I've had a busy six months. In October, I had an interview and aptitude test for a cadetship with Bluescope Steel in Wollongong. The interview relied heavily on past experience, and I was able to use the CSIRO Student Research Scheme often. As luck would have it, I was successful in my application as one of 13 Materials Engineering Cadets. This involves going to university part time (at the University of Wollongong) and working full time with Bluescope.
However, notification of the position came several months after the interview, so that I could concentrate on school. I worked hard, and physics ended up being my highest scoring subject. I even got Dux of Dickson College, which surprised me! I finished with a UAI of 99.35, so I cruised into university well about the cut-off for engineering (~80). I am working at the Research center in Wollongong now, assisting a Metallographer. The work is mainly optical microscopy, but occasionally we need to send metal samples to the center's SEM for analysis. The samples we look at usually have defects in the metallic coating, and our job is to determine the cause of the defect. It is a bit like detective work. Working on the JOEL at UNSW@ADFA with you has put me in a good position to handle this work, so thank you for all the help you gave me.
Regards, your CSIRO student"
The CSIRO organisers are looking for potential supervisors this year again and there are many possibilities to involve students here at UNSW@ADFA. Details can be found at www.csiro.au/greenmachine and obtained by emailfrom Ilaria Catizone (Ilaria.Catizone@csiro.au).
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CSIRO Media Release
Termites Feed Through Good Vibrations
iscovery that termites use vibrations to choose the wood they eat may provide opportunities to new methods of reducing infestations in homes and also may provide insights into the “cocktail party effect” of signal processing – how to ignore most noise but have some signals that trigger attention – that may prove useful in artificial intelligence.
CSIRO entomologist Theo Evans says laboratory experiments have found that termites use their ability to detect vibrations to determine which food source is most suitable. The termites can also detect how the vibrations are made. This ability could be likened to a form of sonar.
Dr Evans says different termite species are known to prefer eating particular sizes of wood; certain drywood termites prefer small blocks, presumably to avoid competition. With Professor Joseph Lai and his students from the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy, Dr Evans investigated how the blind insects measured pieces of wood.
They recorded the vibrations of worker drywood termites as they fed on large and small wood blocks. Dr Evans then broadcast the recorded vibrations made by termites from the large blocks into small blocks and found that the termites switched their preference to the large blocks. Prof. Lai created an artificial signal similar to that made by the termites chewing the large block, which Dr Evans broadcast into small blocks and the scientists found that the termites had no preference for either large or small blocks. Broadcasting static into small blocks did not affect termite choice, showing that the termites were not interested in random noise.
These results show two responses by the termites: one to block size and a second to signal source. The artificial signal mimicked the characteristic frequency of the wooden block, so the termites were tricked into believing that a small block with the artificial signal was the same size as a large block; thus no preference was observed. However, the signal from the termites feeding on large blocks had this characteristic frequency plus other signals indicating the presence of other termites in that “large block”, so they chose to feed on the large block without termites. Thus the termites showed that they have the “cocktail party effect”.
This social information had another important effect: limiting reproduction potential. Most termite workers are sterile; they don’t breed. However, in drywood termites, workers can become fertile and develop into breeders when they are isolated from their colony. Few workers developed into breeders in the experiments when they were broadcast the termite sourced signals, whereas many workers developed into neotenic reproductives when artificial signals were broadcast, or when no signals were broadcast.
Scientists are hoping to find ways to interfere with the termites’ ability to select wood in order to reduce the economic impact of termite damage. “There is a common perception that termites are voracious and indiscriminate eaters, consuming all the wood that they find,” Dr Evans says. “But the reality is that termites are selective feeders and choose their food very carefully. The palatability of the wood species and hardness is important as are defensive chemicals made by the plant. But our work shows that this is not the only method of assessment. There are many accounts of termites not consuming a piece of palatable wood.
Further Information:
Dr Theo Evans
CSIRO Entomology, Termite Group
02 6246 4195
Professor Joseph Lai
UNSW@ADFA
02 6268 8272
Media Assistance:
Julie Carter
CSIRO Entomology
02 6246 4040 or 0439 033 011
www.csiro.au
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PEMS lecturer retires after 30 year association with UNSW@ADFA
Former Louisana State University scholar Ben Freasier retired from UNSW@ADFA last week after 30 years of services.
Dr Freasier came to RMC as a post-doctoral fellow in 1974 and two years later accepted a permanent position as a research scientist in the Chemistry Department.
In those days Dr Freasier said, apart from the physics and geography disciplines, the teaching population was small enough to allow the academics to be housed in one building.
“Since RMC times the student population has grown immensely and there has been an increasein standards, which I think can be accredited to the female intake as things became a little more competitive,” he said.
As a self-confessed theoretician Dr Freasier hoped that in time Federal Government support would increase funding for like-minded researchers.
“There is a huge drive for Federal funding to be given to applied science projects. I believe that there are very often unanticipated results from curiosity-driven research that are used later on in applied scientific and engineering applications.”
Apart from spending more time learning croquet and water colour, Dr Freasier will now become a UNSW@ADFA visiting research fellow where he will complete a couple of studies he is doing on the theory of simple fluids and polymer melts.
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Staff Bulletins
If you have something you would like to contribute, please download and complete the submission form and email the information to j.fletcher@adfa.edu.au.
Business Travel Web Survey
It is known that labour is a significant source of economic growth as it is people who create new knowledge and innovation. This project aims at uncovering the determinants of business travel as a possible mechanism through which new knowledge (if any) is created. Your collaboration and participation to the survey is much appreciated. The survey can be found at http://www2.mcgregor.com.au/7432adfa/7432adfa.htm Many thanks for your participation
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ETS spotlight on . . . lecture theatre operation
As we begin the academic year, ETS would like to remind academic staff that information about the operation of the presentation technology in each lecture theatre is available:
as a tip sheet on the wall of the lecture theatre
from the ETS website as downloadable pdf files http://www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/ets/service/venue_supp.html
as a collection of tip sheets in the foyer of ETS.
If you are new and would like a personal orientation to the venues you will be using, please contact: Ray Draper
Senior Venue and Technical Support Officer
Phone: x 8961
r.draper@adfa.edu.au
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Academy Chief of Defence Force (CDF) Parade Saturday 26 February
Invitation to ADFA Staff
ADFA Military, Defence Public Servants and University College staff are invited to attend the CDF Parade on Saturday, 26 February 2005. The Parade commences at 9.30am and ends at 11.05am. Staff are requested to be seated by 9.20am. Each member of staff may invite up to three guests.
Staff wishing to be seated at the Parade are asked to obtain a blue entrée card for themselves and each guest from either, WO2 Chris Forrest or FSGT Fred Semmler (2nd Floor, Military Building) on ext: 8519 or 8541. Each entrée card will allow access to a light luncheon in the lower level dining room in the Academy Cadets' Mess following the Parade. Staff not attending the light luncheon in the Mess will not require a blue entrée card.
Vehicle Access and Car Parking Arrangements on Parade Day – 26 February
On 26 February all staff are requested to park in their respective designated car parking areas by 0800 h. Those without a designated car park should park in Carpark No 90 (behind School of Aerospace, Civil and Mechanical Engineering).
Staff who arrive later than 0800h should have their identity cards available for Chubb Security traffic control. Staff will then be directed where to park their vehicle.
On Parade Day, Gallipoli Road will be closed to traffic from 0830h. There will be no access to staff Carpark 95 (behind the Military Building) after this time.
Carpark 96 (ISC carpark) will be cleared at the following times:
Thu, 24 Feb 05 – 0800 - 0930 h
Fri, 25 Feb 05 – 0800 – 0930 h
Sat 26 Feb 05 – 0900 – 0930 h
Wet Weather Program
Cancellation of the Parade will result in a ceremony being conducted in Adams Hall. The Ceremony will consist of an address by the Chief of the Defence Force. Attendance will be limited to those guests with PURPLE, and YELLOW entrée cards stamped to indicate a wet weather invitation.
If you wish to obtain further information regarding CDF Week, you should contact the POC.
POC: SOCOORD, Miss Erin Rinaldi, Ext: 8606
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New School of Business Executive Officer
Mr. Brad King has joined the School of Business as its first Executive Officer. Brad comes to ADFA from a managerial position in the student union at the University of Ballarat and previous to that had had a longstanding association with Canberra. His office is located on the top floor of the School of Business, Building 27.
Peter Hall
Professor, Head
School of Business
UNSW @ ADFA
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Presentation on New Research Forms - 9 March
James Walsh, the Director of Research Services UNSW, will be giving a presentation in the Library Seminar Room, ADFA from 1-3pm on the new RA1 and RA2 forms which replace the RO1 and RO2 forms.
For anyone thinking of submitting an application to any granting body, internal or external, you will from now on be required to submit the RA1 form with your application and the RA2 form should your application be successful. Applications will not be accepted unless accompanied by the RA1 and funding will not be released without the RA2.
These forms are not difficult to complete but if they are filled out incorrectly, they will be returned. This session will be of great benefit to both researchers and school administrative staff in order to avoid future delays in funding.
Lizzie Wiley
Research Office
UNSW@ADFA
Ph: 6268 8112
e.wiley@adfa.edu.au
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ETS Spotlight on . . . Off Campus Students
Course materials for off campus students were distributed to all enrolled students 2-3 weeks before the start of semester. If any student reports problems with the receipt of materials for your distance or intensive mode course please refer them to the Off-campus Program Manager, Morgan Smith, on l.smith@adfa.edu.au. Any enrolments matters should be referred to Student Administrative Services.
Students who have been allowed late enrollment will be emailed an electronic copy of course documents where feasible, followed by a hard copy course pack, to ensure that they can begin their studies as soon as possible.
Wanda and Morgan from the Flexible Learning Team would like to thank all lecturers involved in the development of first semester course materials for their cooperation through the development period and offer our special thanks to those lecturers who completed their Course Outlines prior to the Christmas break, enabling such an early and efficient distribution of course packs.
ETS spotlight on . . . lecture theatre operation
As we begin the academic year, ETS would like to remind academic staff that information about the operation of the presentation technology in each lecture theatre is available:
If you are new and would like a personal orientation to the venues you will be using, please contact: Ray Draper
Senior Venue and Technical Support Officer
Phone: x 8961
r.draper@adfa.edu.au
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Defence Force Structure-Army 'Walk For A Cure' 22 -26 Nov 05
Various members of Defence Force Structure-Army (I will be attending) will be running/walking from Canberra to Sydney, via the coast road, during the period 22 - 26 Nov 05, in order to raise money for the ACT Cancer Council, in particular Breast Cancer Research. The activity will be called "Walk for a Cure' and will hopefully be advertised fully over the next few months.
One of the many ways we intend to raise money is by selling the ever popular 'Entertainment Book' amongst members of AHQ, their families, friends and anyone else who would like to support this worthwhile cause. The books run from 1 June - 31 May each year and should be available from March. The cost of a book is $50 each, with $10 of this amount going to our nominated charity.
The books have been well received in the past with hundreds of dollars worth of savings for events, services and restaurants within not only the ACT but Australia wide. If you need convincing, just ask those around you who had the books last year or contact me.
It would be appreciated if you could support the event by purchasing a book (or books), and also pass on the info to family and friends, with the intent of securing a pledge before they go on wide distribution to the ACT.
If you would like to purchase a book, please let me know by email so I can place the appropriate order.
POC: Janet Nicolson, CCLK, Ext 8579 or
janet.nicolson@defence.gov.au
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Important Dates
Event |
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Date |
| Academy Chief of Defence Force Parade |
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26 February 2005 |
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Free Community Lectures
St Marks Day Public Lecture
Paul Oslington has been invited to give the St Marks Day Public Lecture at St Marks
National Theological Centre in Canberra. Entitled "Economics as Natural Theology" the lecture will be held at the Centre in Blackall Street, Barton on 26 April at 7.30pm. For further details telephone Dr Oslington on 02 6268 8720 or visit http://www.stmarksntc.org.au/
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Asia Pacific Seminar Series
Asia Pacific Seminar Series at UNSW@ADFA will be held on Monday, at 12:10-13:00 in SL1 (upstairs) in the former Geography and Oceanography building at UNSW@ADFA, Northcott Drive, Canberra.
7 March 2005
Tsunami Relief Operation in Aceh and the Future
By Mr. Imron Cotan, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia
All welcome. Thank you.
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Next seminar: Monday, 8 April 2005
Title: Preaching on Record and on the Air in Indonesia
By Professor Bernard Arps (The University of Leiden)
The Asia-Pacific Seminar convenors welcome suggestions for seminar speakers and topics. Please contact 2005 convenors:
Minako Sakai (m.sakai@adfa.edu.au)
Paul Tickell (p.tickell@adfa.edu.au)
Website: http://idun.itsc.adfa.edu.au/SOE/Indonesia/apss/apss.html
To be included into our mailing list, please send your email to apss@adfa.edu.au.
Seminar enquiries: Taufiq Tanasaldy
Engineering Security Research Forum
The 2005 Engineering Security Research Forum will be held at ADFA on Friday 25 February. This 3rd national forum will showcase Australia's leading research and projects which contribute to safeguarding Australia from terrorism and other security threats. Registration for UNSW@ADFA academics, researchers and research students is free. For further details on the forum and for registration please go to the website at: http://www.safeguardingaustralia.org.au/2005forum/2005forum.html
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Classifieds
If you have something you would like to contribute, please download and complete the submission form and email the information to j.fletcher@adfa.edu.au.
ACCOMMODATION
Room for rent. Located in Campbell in a two bed room flat. Fully furnished. 1 minute walk to bus stop, 5 minutes walk to shops, 20 minutes walk to ADFA. $115 per week plus expense. Available from mid-March. Contact: Yin 6268 8015/ 0401350801 email shanyin@cs.adfa.edu.au or Wayne 0439401813
House for Rent from 1 July - 31 December 2005.
House located in Wanniassa, 10 min to Woden and Tuggeranong town centres, 5 min to local shop, 3 min walk to school & bus, very central. ff house, central heating/cooling, security system. 3 bedrm- master w/Queen bed, BIR &
ens, 1 rm w/sgl bed BIR, 1 rm for study. 1 full bthrm, living rm, dining rm & lounge w/TV etc. Kitchen fully equipped with utensils & microwave. Washer in laundry room. Large fully fenced yard with kids equipment & BBQ. Large basement for storage, slug. Watering plants, $300/p.w. (negotiable). Please contact Hua (02-62688473), xiaohuawang02@yahoo.com.au) for more details.
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FOR SALE
Sofa Bed
Good quality and excellent condition brown two seater sofa incorporating Symonds sprung base double bed. $220 Marion on 8241 or 0402 240009
New Virgin Mobile Starter Kit $10
This is everything you need (except the mobile phone) to get a pay-as-you-go mobile up and running with $20 Credit on Activation. Includes aVirgin sim card, instruction book and a new mobile phone number. For information on the network go to www.virginmobile.com.au . Please contact Jonathan (0403 891959 or j.couldrick@adfa.edu.au) for more details.
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Co-Op Sandisk "Scratch & Win" Promotion
Simply purchase a San Disk Cruzer Mini 512MB between 17.01.05 & 19.03.05 For a chance to win a Cruzer Mini 1GB.plus other prizes
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Got a Story?
If you have something you would like to contribute, please download and complete the submission form and email the information to:
Ms Julie G Fletcher
Public Relations Manager
Email: j.fletcher@adfa.edu.au
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Subscribe Now
To subscribe to UNSW@ADFA Weekly News email:
Ms Julie G Fletcher
Public Relations Manager
Email: j.fletcher@adfa.edu.au
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Contact Us
Ms Julie G Fletcher
Public Relations Manager
Phone: 6268 8760
Email: j.fletcher@adfa.edu.au
Do you have a story you would like to contribute?
