2004

Curtin Student GuildAnnual Report

S u p p o r t i n g S t u d e n t s - S t a n d i n g S t r o n gS u p p o r t i n g S t u d e n t s - S t a n d i n g S t r o n g

tm

CONTENTSCONTENTSp.4/5p.4/5 p.6/7p.6/7

p.8/9p.8/9 p.10/11p.10/11

p.12/13p.12/13 p.14/15p.14/15

p.16/17p.16/17 p.18/19p.18/19

p.20/21p.20/21 p.22/23p.22/23

p.24/25p.24/25

••Presidentʼs ReportPresidentʼs Report •Education Vice •Education Vice Presidentʼs Report Presidentʼs Report •Activities Vice •Activities Vice Presidentʼs ReportPresidentʼs Report

•Divisional •Divisional Representativesʼ Representativesʼ ReportReport

•General •General Secretaryʼs ReportSecretaryʼs Report•Departmentsʼ •Departmentsʼ ReportReport

•Managing •Managing Directorʼs ReportDirectorʼs Report

•Member Benefi ts•Member Benefi ts

•Community •Community SupportSupport

•Sport & Recreation•Sport & Recreation

•Responsibility •Responsibility and Accountabilityand Accountability

p.26/27p.26/27

•Financial Statement•Financial Statement

•Guild Statistics•Guild Statistics •Guild Council •Guild Council GovernanceGovernance

The Curtin Student Guild is a not-for-profi t organisation which aspires to the following:

VisionThe vision of the Curtin Student Guild is to be an independent organisation which is highly valued by all of the University community, especially our members, through the active provision of services and benefi ts, encompassing all aspects of student life.

Mission StatementThe mission of the Curtin Student Guild is to provide a range of services to the students of Curtin University helping them to have a fulfi lling university experience through:

- actively representing Curtin University students;- encouraging and facilitating student participation in University decision-making; and- advocating on behalf of and providing services, facilities and activities for our members.

ValuesIn working towards its vision and mission the Curtin Student Guild subscribes to the following values and principles:

- Autonomous & Democratic: Student control of student affairs, underpinned by democratic decision making;- Ethics & Integrity: Acting at all times with integrity and ethical consideration based on open and honest behaviour and mutual trust;- Service: Providing service in an atmosphere of understanding and commitment to our Guild members;- Community: Demonstrating a sense of community with respect for and acknowledgment of diversity;- Communication: Open communication and consultation;- Responsibility and Accountability: We will be responsible and accountable to our members, ensuring transparency of actions, with the resources of the Guild applied for the maximum long term benefi t of our members;- Initiative and Development: An attitude of welcoming change and growth with an emphasis on best standards and continuous improvement in our services and staff; encouraging individual and organisational development and creativity in all that we do; and- Co-operation: Active co-operation with both internal and external organisations and groups who have similar goals and values, offering benefi t to our Guild members.

About the cover: The concept of ̒ Curtin Student Guild - Standing Strong Supporting Studentsʼ was used in 2004 to brand Curtin Student Guild publications. Artwork using centuries old trees and forests symbolised the long history of the Curtin Student Guild and its strong roots in the Curtin University community guaranteeing a solid base to support students now and in the future. 33

Vision & ValuesVision & ValuesM

iss

ion

,M

iss

ion

,

Design + Layout: Ron SchopPhotography: Jemma Keech

PresidentPresident

Kristal Mihal - 2004 President

Patrick Gorman - 2005 President

The Curtin Student Guild has experienced considerable growth in recent years, resulting in a better university experience for all students. This year, I am proud to present the Guildʼs achievements in 2004 and address the challenges it may face in 2005 and beyond. The Guild would not exist without you, its members. Special thanks are extended to all students who continue to support their Guild in so many different ways.

2004 IN REVIEWYour 2004 Guild President, Kristal Mihal worked productively with University management to promote student interests as a priority in their decision making. Kristal made a signifi cant impact during her term, leading Guild Council in range of initiatives aimed at ensuring our focus was clearly directed to outcomes for you. These efforts were rewarded with some signifi cant wins for the Guild in 2004. The University Councilʼs decision not to raise HECS fees for 2005 was largely due to the Guildʼs effective lobbying. Parking permits remained at a student friendly rate of $62 per year, despite University pressure to impose a signifi cant increase. A revised Student Charter was also approved by the University, providing both staff and students with a clear code of conduct.

There are Guild members at all Curtin campuses across the State. The Resources and Environment Divisional Representative is your regional voice at University boards and committees meeting at Bentley, supporting all regional students. However we know that local representation in your own campus is equally important and we are continuing to develop regional student associations at all campuses. Inaugural regional campus representative elections were conducted in 2004. Also, with the support of the Guild, the existing Kalgoorlie and Muresk campus student associations have continued to grow, and the Geraldton University Centre held the inaugural meeting of its Student Association in April 2005. Over $100,000 has been allocated to directly supporting regional students since the introduction of ASF in 2003. This has provided funding for orientation and social activities, and improved sporting facilities

Continuity of service and commitment to preserving the commercial viability of the Guild, in an extremely unpredictable political environment, are key priorities for the Managing Director, Jeanette Bosci. Jeanette is supported by a dedicated team of professional staff who are committed to facilitating the implementation of the goals and objectives set by Guild Council.

LOOKING FORWARD…The Guild is recognised by the University as an effective representative body for students. Members will see a 2005 Guild Council committed to ensuring that the University spends additional revenue, obtained from recent HECS increases, appropriately and effectively, and that as the University focuses more on research, the quality of teaching is retained. Through our participation on University boards and committees we will ensure that the views of students are heard and acted upon.

A major representative project that the Guild is pursuing is the implementation of online voting. We are targeting implementation for the 2006 Guild Elections, aiming to facilitate maximum student participation. More details will be revealed in the coming year.

Your Guild recognises that member values and needs evolve over time. It takes time to respond to changing needs, but your Guild is committed to encouraging feedback from all members and to incorporating you ideas into our future planning. Efforts will also be focussed on ensuring that you, our members, are aware of the many services and activities and that your Guild provides. The Guild aims to continually improve member satisfaction with Guild services, as surveyed in the 2004 Curtin Annual Satisfaction Survey (CASS).

The Curtin Student Guild is one of the most stable student organizations in the country. However, there are ongoing attempts by Federal and State governments to destabilise the Guildʼs representative role in the University system. If the Federal Government is successful in forcing a return to Voluntary Student Unionism in 2006 we will be forced to make some radical changes to ensure that the long-term sustainability of Guild services. The decisions we take now will impact on Curtin students for many years, so it is important to ensure that we give proper consideration to both the short and long term impact of our strategies. Regardless of legislation, our challenge will be to continuously review and expand benefi ts provided to members whilst keeping costs as low as possible.

The future for students at the Curtin University of Technology is may be uncertain in many areas. However, what cannot be argued is that as long as there are students willing to commit their time and effort to furthering the interests of fellow students, there will always be a Curtin Student Guild fi ghting for studentsʼ needs and rights.

Patrick Gorman2005 Guild President

44

Photo: ʻGuild Receptionʼ - The Guild reception was totally renoved in 2004. It now features ample bench space for members to fi ll out forms and applications, one centre location for all enquiries, a seating area for visitors and easy access meeting rooms.

55

Education Vice PresidentEducation Vice President

Photo: ʻFight the Feesʼ - Through the raising of student support for the ʻFight the Fees campaignʼ and persistent lobbying of the University, the Guild persuaded the Vice Chancellor in 2004 not to recommend the increases for 2005 to University Council.

Rikki Hendon - 2005 Education Vice President

David Goncalves - 2004 Education Vice President

FIGHT THE FEESThe Higher Education Support Act (HESA) passed by Federal Parliament in December 2003, gave the 2004 Education Vice President (EVP) David Goncalves, the daunting task of opposing the introduction of a 25% fee increase and Domestic Up-Front Full Fee paying places. David, together with the Guild President, led a comprehensive campaign on the detrimental effects of this legislation. By uniting student support and through persistent lobbying, the Vice Chancellor was persuaded to oppose the increases. On the 23rd of June 2004, University Council voted in agreement with the Vice Chancellor. Curtin became the only West Australian University not to burden its students with the 25% increase.

Unfortunately, the Guildʼs victory against fee increases will be short-lived. Despite a collaborative Guild and NUS campaign on HESA during the 2004 Federal elections, the Federal Liberal Government was re-elected, resulting in no immediate chance of HESA being repealed. HESA, combined with reduced student enrolments (despite the lower HECS fees) and lower than expected Federal funding, led to a decision by the University in 2005 to review fee increases as a means of raising revenue.

In Semester One 2005 the Guild conducted a comprehensive ʻBrains Not Bucksʼ student education campaign, together vibrant rallies and extensive lobbying of University administration. Unfortunately, effective from 2006, University Council has ultimately decided to increase domestic up-front full-fee paying places in line with HESA legislation. The Guild would like to see this decision reversed in the future. We believe the University and Government should further explore alternate means of raising funds.

For the immediate future, we will be focusing on ensuring that the additional money is spent on improving the quality of teaching and learning at Curtin and on reducing the impact of this inequitable legislation through the development of equity scholarships and similar initiatives.

VOLUNTARY STUDENT UNIONISMVoluntary Student Unionism (VSU) has proven to be another challenge for offi ce of the EVP. Anticipated in 2004 as a possible consequence of the re-election of the Liberal Federal Government, VSU in the form of the Higher Education Support Amendment (Abolition of Compulsory Up-front Student Union Fees) Bill was introduced to Federal Parliament on the 16 March 2005 and is currently still being debated. Preparations for the return of VSU have already begun. To educate students on the importance of retaining a vibrant and viable Guild, despite VSU restrictions, we have conducted awareness campaigns, distributed information publications and educational materials, coordinated petitions and student rights forums. Further activities are expected in the latter half of 2005.

TEACHING & LEARNINGThe EVP, assisted by the Guild Project Offi cer, has been instrumental in improving the quality of teaching and learning on campus. In 2004 we reviewed the Universityʼs unit outline

policy. Aided by the Divisional Representatives, an audit of unit outlines across the University was conducted. This revealed a disturbing lack of quality, continuity and compliance with 2004 University policy. The 2005 EVP presented research fi ndings to the University Teaching & Learning Committee (UTLC) and subsequent collaborative work with the UTLC has resulted in a comprehensive review of University policy. We are presently working with UTLC to develop an anonymous assessment policy aimed at ensuring that the marking of student papers is free of bias and discrimination. The outcomes of this initiative should be visible in 2006.

We are also carefully monitoring, and where appropriate challenging, changes to the policy on the management of plagiarism at Curtin. We aim to safeguard students against unnecessarily punitive measures and to ensure there is no restriction of appeal rights. The Guild is also active in facilitating the development of a new Student Evaluation of Learning & Teaching (SELT) instrument, with an easy-to-use online survey. Trials for the survey are currently underway, and its use should be widespread by Semester Two of 2005.

2005 NUS CONFERENCEA successful application to host the National Union of Students (NUS) Education was submitted in March 2005. Scheduled for 29 June – 1 July, this conference will attract 200 – 300 student attendees from universities around the Nation. The focus of this yearʼs conference will be the current struggle against VSU. Participants will be able to learn from our past experiences in resisting, surviving and eventually repealing past State VSU legislation. It is hoped that the conference will empower student organisations to continue to fi ght effectively for student rights throughout the diffi cult times ahead.

Rikki Hendon,2005 Education Vice President

66

Activities Vice PresidentActivities Vice President

Katie McGregor - 2005 Activities Vice President

Nathan Low - 2004 Activities Vice President

The Guildʼs primary focus for the role of the Activities Vice President (AVP) in 2004 was to expand the number and quality of activities being offered to you, our members. Your responses to our surveys and your participation in Guild run activities and events, tells us that most of you want more from your time at University than just being stuck in a lecture theatre, or lab.

You have made it clear that you also want to be able to choose from a range of activities and events. You asked, and we listened! We may not have it perfect as yet (though we are trying) and we gave you a range of new ʻCommon Free Timeʼ activities, while continuing on with many of the long time favourites (like the fortnightly ʻGrill the Guildʼ barbeques). We also increased support for the growing number of clubs and societies, welcoming on board our fi rst regional clubs.

CLUBS & SOCIETIESThe number clubs registered with the Guild has grown by a further 13% in 2004, giving an overall increase of 40% since 2002. This has led to a natural growth in the sponsorship, facilities and resources being provided to clubs.

The Guild is pleased to have achieved the following on behalf of clubs in 2004:• Distribution of over $31,000 in direct grants and sponsorship

to clubs. This represents an increase of 444% since 2002.• Provision of a dedicated clubs meeting room in the Guild

offi ce space, at no cost to clubs.• Secure locker facilities, for storing of club resources• Regular guest speakers at inter club meetings – supporting

offi ce bearers to effectively administer your clubs.• Distribution of a more comprehensive club registration and

resource pack.

SATELLITE & REGIONAL CAMPUS SUPPORTThe Guild endeavours to allow students at satellite and regional campuses to have a say in how funds allocated to their amenities and services are spent.

Support services to the Graduate School of Business (Perth City campus) were boosted with the campus being actively represented on the CUPSA council. Coffee networking sessions were implemented, a water fountain was installed and tea and coffee making facilities provided.

Where regional campuses have an established elected student association the Guild has provided funds directly this elected student group. This applies to both Muresk and Kalgoorlie campuses. The Guild is working to facilitate student representation at other newer regional campuses, so that the students in these campuses may also have a direct voice in how we can assist in providing the services and facilities they need.

Muresk have and are continuing to utilise their funding to upgrade the tennis/basketball courts, provide a ping pong table, upgrade gym, tennis and cricket facilities, and to resurface the pool table. Other projects undertaken or being planned include

provision of air-conditioning to the gym, hosting of a sports day and support of student clubs.

Kalgoorlie Student Association have also utilised their funding according to the needs and preferences of their students. Funds have been used or allocated for construction of a Barbeque, to hold a movie night, for orientation activities, to subsidise the annual ball, to re-equip the gym and to hold a range of social activities throughout the year. We were also pleased to receive registration applications from the WASM Rugby Club, WASM Pluggers Basketball Club and WASM Social Club. These applications were accepted by the Guild, and over $2,000 in additional sponsorship was provided for specifi c club activities.

EVENTSThe focus in 2004 was to continue to improve major Guild events and to introduce new initiatives to encourage students to socialise off campus. Our efforts were rewarded with the number of students attending Guild events increasing. Held off campus at Base Lounge, the inaugural Cocktail Night was a sell-out event. The Guild Evening of Elegance Ball continues to develop a reputation as the premier social event of the year and this also was a sell-out in 2004. On campus events also proved hugely popular; the number of guests at the four major annual Tavern events alone totalled over 3,500. Check out the sport and recreation report to get a full run down on Guild activities.

INTO 2005…Aside from improving on the impressive record of the last two years, we plan to hold more events that cater to underage students, or non-drinkers. We also assist Guild registered clubs & societies by selling club event tickets through Guild retail outlets, at no cost to clubs.

Katie McGregor2005 Activities Vice President

77

Divisional RepresentativesDivisional Representatives

Photo: ʻVege Patchʼ - Although all Guild catering outlets offer health food alternatives, The Vege Patch - located in Elizabeth Jolley Theatre - is the place to go if you want the largest selection of fresh salads, pasta, sushi and vegetarian meals.

Elected each year by their fellow students, Guild Divisional Representatives work actively to improve services and conditions for students within their elected Division. The role of these “Div Reps” includes participating on various Divisional boards and committees, meeting with academic and University staff on a one-on-one basis and writing detailed reports – all in the interests of providing valuable support to students on a wide range of issues.

The 2004 Divisional Representative group was very active within the University, achieving positive outcomes for Curtin students and establishing a solid foundation for better educational outcomes in the future.

CURTIN BUSINESS SCHOOL• A participation mark was introduced instead of an

attendance mark for all courses.• Standardisation of unit outlines occurred across the

Division.• The Capstone unit introduced by CBS was reviewed by the

Business Divisional Representative.2005 GOALS • Further investigation into supplementary exams.• A review of departmental photocopying and printing

machine costs to ensure the lowest price possible is offered to students.

HEALTH SCIENCES • Successful lobbying for the removal of an ancillary fee for

HCS students took place.• Representation of students experiencing exam timetable

clashes across all schools within the Division.2005 GOALS • Review of equipment and resources available to ensure

technology match which students what is used in the work place.

• Support for students balancing practical placements with regular coursework.

• Ensure that the quality of Curtin courses is maintained.

ENGINEERING, SCIENCE & COMPUTING • New Engineering common room established on the 3rd

fl oor of the Engineering Building.• First year Engineering students granted access to an

exclusive lab and workroom.

• A transparent teaching policy within the Department of Computing was introduced.

• Expiry dates included on all unit outlines to ensure standardisation and accuracy of course materials across the Division.

2005 GOALS • Seek resolutions for ongoing timetabling issues. • Represent students on a Divisional working party

investigating student behaviour in lectures, labs and tutorials.

• Ongoing negotiations to renovate the Basement Café.

RESOURCES & ENVIRONMENT • Establish regional campus representative roles – increasing

communication between campuses, improving service delivery and facilitating the responsible use of member funds.

• Visits to regional campuses to discuss local issues and support campus representative delivery of services to students.

2005 GOALS • Advocate for equitable access to resources and information

for regional students, including library and computer services.

• Encourage more social interaction between all R&E students.

• Development of committee structures at regional campuses to improve regional students input in the University system.

HUMANITIES • Establishment of new lab and common room facilities in

Building 501 and a common room in Building 201.• Negotiated for repʼs of Divisional based academic clubs to

sit on Divisional boards.• Improved course approval process.• Continued dealings with the University on consumable fees,

course quality and access to technology and equipment.2005 GOALS • Provision of more common room facilities within the

Division.• Investigation of a Division-wide feedback system

(modelled on the current system in Engineering, Science & Computing).

88

David Wheeler -David Wheeler -Engineering & ScienceEngineering & Science

Amanda Opperman -Amanda Opperman -Resources & EnvironmentResources & Environment

Bennett Greenhalgh -Bennett Greenhalgh -BusinessBusiness

Dave Dydek -Dave Dydek -Health SciencesHealth Sciences

Patrick Gorman -Patrick Gorman -HumanitiesHumanities

2004 Divisional2004 DivisionalRepresentativesRepresentatives

Kate Meenan -Kate Meenan -Engineering, Science & ComputingEngineering, Science & Computing

Reece Wheadon -Reece Wheadon -Resources & EnvironmentResources & Environment

Esther Low -Esther Low -BusinessBusiness

Holly Cameron -Holly Cameron -Health SciencesHealth Sciences

Rebecca Higgie -Rebecca Higgie -HumanitiesHumanities

2005 Divisional2005 DivisionalRepresentativesRepresentatives

99

General SecretaryGeneral Secretary

The start of 2004 marked the second year of automatic Guild membership for onshore students enrolling in most Curtin University courses. It was also the second year of the Amenities and Service Fee (ASF) charge by the University. The Guild, effectively acting as a subcontractor to the University, receives the bulk of the ASF paid by students who choose to retain their automatic Guild membership. The increased membership of the Guild and the increased funding from the University, both resulting from 2002 State legislation, presented many new challenges for the Guild. However, many of the implementation problems confronted in 2003 were resolved in 2004 and we believe that the changes we have made have provided us with a solid base from which to move forward, even if the Federal Government does reintroduce VSU in 2006.

SATELLITE & REGIONAL CAMPUS ELECTIONSSATELLITE & REGIONAL CAMPUS ELECTIONSThe Guild acknowledges the importance of having students from Curtinʼs satellite and regional campuses take part in the Guildʼs decision-making processes. It is further recognised that satellite and regional campus representatives are vital to the development and expansion of Guild services and facilities. For the fi rst time, in 2004, satellite and regional campus representative elections were held in Curtinʼs eight satellite and regional campuses. The elections were carried out with the support of the Offi ce of the University Secretary and conducted by mass mail-out to all students at campuses in Northam, Albany, Joondalup, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland, Geraldton and the newly established campus in Margaret River.

Student representatives from Margaret River and Northam campuses were elected after lengthy consultation and election planning. Unfortunately, no nominations were received from the other campuses, resulting in no direct student link to these education centres. However, with continued effort to increase the avenues of communication with regional members, the Guild is confi dent that 2005 will see more students develop an interest in student representation and engage with the election process.

2004 also saw an agreement between the Guild and regional student associations regarding the distribution of ASF monies to regional campuses. After lengthy discussions, it was agreed that, whilst the Guild would retain only enough of the ASF paid over by the University from regional students to cover direct costs (e.g student accident insurance), the balance would be returned to regional campus student organisations for direct delivery of representational and social services. It is hoped that with continued strength in member numbers on regional campuses and the ability for student groups on these campuses to develop and maintain structured committee systems, the Guild will be able to continue to provide funding to support their activities.

DEPARTMENTSDEPARTMENTSThe end result of building refurbishments in the Guild precinct during 2005 saw the relocation of the Guildʼs Department offi ces to prime frontage along the Sir Charles Court Promenade. This immediately created a visible presence for the Departments and provided the general student population with many further avenues of support and advocacy.

RESPONSIBILITY & ACCOUNTABILITYRESPONSIBILITY & ACCOUNTABILITYGuild Council is aware of its responsibility to be accountable to all members. Having been elected to offi ce as your representatives within the Curtin University, we are mindful of the fact that you have entrusted us to carry out the duties of our offi ce diligently and with consideration for the rights and entitlements of all students. You will therefore fi nd at the end of this Annual Report, in the section titled ʻCouncil Governanceʼ, some new information regarding the meetings in which we have participated on your behalf.

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITYFINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITYThe Guild maintains a position of fi nancial accountability. Our fi nancial records are subject to the same scrutiny as any regulated organisation. We are accountable to you, our members, to the University, to industry regulatory bodies and to Government Departments. We adhere to Australian Accounting Standards and operate under a policy of full disclosure. As part of our program for continual improvement in all administrative matters, the Guild will be working with a new auditor in 2005. We also continue to present quarterly fi nancial reports to the University together with a full copy of our annual audited fi nancial statements.

GUILD GOVERNANCEGUILD GOVERNANCEGuild Boards and Committees and Rules and Regulations will continue to be revised, as will the Guild Council election process to incorporate feedback from the Western Australian Electoral Commission.

Jacky Teo2005 General Secretary

Jacky Teo - 2004 General SecretaryJacky Teo - 2004 General Secretary

Thuy Huong Tran - 2004 General SecretaryThuy Huong Tran - 2004 General Secretary

1010

DepartmentsDepartments

The Guild supports equality for all students. Where issues common to all students can be dealt with most effectively through the central support systems of the Guild, other issues require the focus of specialised support services. The Guild has therefore developed a number of equity Departments. These Departments each represent the particular interests of a specifi c part of our membership. All of the Departments are primarily staffed by student volunteers. Some of the Departments are quite new (e.g. the Indigenous Department was formally established by Guild Council in 2003) and some are still struggling to fi nd the most appropriate structure for providing maximum benefi t to the group of students they represent. The Guild has increased the level of funding and other support provided to the Departments, to assist them in this process. In time we believe that this will enable them to develop appropriate services to ensure that equitably becomes a reality (not just a catch phrase), with all students having access to academic services and assessment of academic outcomes based purely on merit. The Guild currently supports the following equity Departments:

CURTIN UNIVERSITY POST GRADUATE STUDENT CURTIN UNIVERSITY POST GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION (CUPSA)ASSOCIATION (CUPSA) The CUPSA Council has been active in providing representation, support and services to our postgraduate (PʼGrad) students (with over 6,000 members representing approximately 20% of the onshore student population). .

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT COMMITTEE (ISC) INTERNATIONAL STUDENT COMMITTEE (ISC) Representing 23% of the onshore University population, Curtinʼs international student contingent are extremely active across all areas of University life.

WOMENʼS DEPARTMENT WOMENʼS DEPARTMENT The Womenʼs Department actively represents and supports members; organising awareness campaigns, student forums and social activities throughout the year.

PART-TIME & MATURE-AGED STUDENT DEPARTMENT (PTMA)PART-TIME & MATURE-AGED STUDENT DEPARTMENT (PTMA)Over 34% of members study part-time and over 55% of members are classed as ʻmature agedʼ. The PTMA Department represents these Guild members on relevant areas of academic, equity and social issues.

SEXUALITY DEPARTMENTSEXUALITY DEPARTMENTOffering members of the Curtin community a non-intimidating environment in which to seek advice and support, the Sexuality Department promotes communication amongst members and encourages participation in community initiatives.

INDIGENOUS DEPARTMENTINDIGENOUS DEPARTMENTThe Indigenous Department was re-established in 2004. The Guild aims to provide the students in the Curtin community with an avenue for bringing into focus the issues facing indigenous students, in order to help resolve those issues

ACHIEVEMENTS DEPARTMENTS IN 2004ACHIEVEMENTS DEPARTMENTS IN 2004• Survey conducted on Post-Grad coursework satisfaction

levels and increasing fee levels.• Review of Pos-Grad fees (2000 -2004) in collaboration with

Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations (CAPA).• Review of scholarship ranking process provided to Curtin

Graduate Studies Committee.• Acceptance and implementation of recommendations on

the process of the Human Research Ethics Committee.• Submission of a proposal to develop an International

Lounge submitted to the University.• Survey by ISC on the Business Schoolsʼ quality of education

and the Universityʼs English Language Test system. • Representation on behalf of international students having

diffi culty communicating in negotiating fee instalment plans.

• Strong and vocal opposition to University cancellation of mid-year graduations. This hard work paid off for all students with the University announcing in early 2005 that mid-year graduations will be reinstated.

2005 GOALS2005 GOALS• Presentation of Coursework Satisfaction Survey at Academic

Senate and UTLC.• Participation in PʼGrad scholarship review working party.• Online publication of seminar videos for distance education

students.• Trial of online forum for Graduate School of Business

students.• Development of PʼGrad scholarship programme.• Involvement in WABRI joint seminar series. • Review of current CUPSA executive positions.• Survey of PʼGrad supervision to identify ways to improve

project supervision.• Closer collaboration with the International Offi ce in

conducting international student orientations.• Collaboration with the International Offi ce in publishing

ʻInterlinkʼ – the Universityʼs international student newsletter.

• Implementation of an ISC Volunteer Programme

Photo: ʻSecondhand Bookshopʼ - The Guild Secondhand Bookshop provides a textbook exchange service that enables Guild members to sell old textbooks and purchase cheap copies of next semesterʼs books.

1111

Photo: ʻCafé Angaziʼ - The latest food outlet on campus, Café Angazi is the perfect place to grab one of their excellent coffees and cake or light snack in a fresh, modern setting.

1212

Managing DirectorManaging Director

A YEAR IN REVIEW2004 was a year that saw us undertake a complete review of all our internal processes and procedures. Like any responsible organisation, we felt it was appropriate for us to make sure that we were doing everything that we could to make sure that the organisation was operating both effi ciently and effectively. As a member based organisation we are always mindful of the need to provide you, our members, with value.

Part of my role as the Managing Director is to make sure that the administrative and legal matters of the Guild are dealt with in a professional and business like manner. We may be a member based organisation, but that does not diminish our legal responsibility or our intent to operate at the highest standards of accountability.

Risk management was a key focus area for the administrative team during 2004. The Guild invested in improving the health and safety measures in place, providing more training and protective equipment. Our investment was rewarded with a reduction in the number of workplace accidents and injuries, and a reduction in our workers compensation premium assessment rate (charged as a % of payroll).

A considerable amount of time was also invested in working with University fi nance staff, providing them with information required for the University application to retain the GST exemption on the Amenities and Services Fee (ASF). Thanks to the hard work of the Guildʼs Finance and Administration team, this application was successful and the ASF has retained its exempt status.

Curtin University is home to a diverse student population. Each one of you has different interests and different needs. While we canʼt guarantee to provide every service that you might need or want, we do listen to you and respond by continually reviewing and revising the services and benefi ts that we make available to you. Our Member Benefi ts division have been working hard to bring to you a range of new events and recreational activities, to increase the number of sponsors and discount providers and to make sure that you have a range of social activities to choose from.

Our retail services also came under scrutiny and we responded to your feedback by extending our product lines and increasing the trading hours, particularly in our cafes. Keep an eye out for more changes to come.

THE GUILD – LOOKING FORWARDThe continued move towards distance and online education will place increasing pressure on the Guild. To remain relevant, we must evaluate how we interact with you. This means we will continue to review what services we provide and how we provide them. The internet is a key tool for us to interact with our members and a major upgrade of our website is planned for launch in the middle of 2005.

Operationally, the Guild faces signifi cant challenges in the period ahead of us. We operate in an environment that is politically volatile. Having only recently emerged from an eight year period of State imposed voluntary Guild membership; we are now facing the prospect of Federal legislation that aims to reintroduce it.

A key message that we would like to send to you, our Guild members, is that this Guild was a viable organisation under State imposed voluntary membership and we are confi dent that we will remain equally viable if the Federal Government does move to introduce its own form of voluntary membership.

The Guild has worked hard in the past year to develop a long term strategic plan. This plan is fl exible enough to allow us to adapt to the environmental changes that will arise, such as the changes to State and Federal legislation mentioned previously. We have set a number of key strategic goals that will enable us to stay focussed on you, our members and the things that are important to you.

Part of our strategic planning has involved developing long term goals for capital works projects. While the timing of these projects must to be set according to the availability of funds, we are working towards clearly defi ned objectives. We have identifi ed a number of projects involving renovation and/or expansion of facilities operated by the Guild. These projects wonʼt all happen immediately – our funding is limited (unlike some of the Eastern States Guilds we donʼt have ASF charges set at $400 to $600 a year) – but they will happen.

Finally I would like to encourage you all to continue to provide your Guild with your feedback. This is your organisation. Be involved, let us know what you need and we will do everything possible to make it happen for you.

1313

Member BenefitsMember BenefitsGUILD MEMBERSHIP – WHATʼS IN IT FOR YOU?The Guild endeavours to provide a range of services and other benefi ts, so that each of our members can see that they get value for their money. However, with over 28,000 members involved in various modes of study through one or more of Curtinʼs ten campuses across the State, this can be a diffi cult goal to achieve. While we canʼt guarantee that everyone gets an equal share, all the time, we do actively seek to understand what it is you want and need the most.

Some of our services and member benefi ts are available to nearly everyone, and the choice is yours as to whether or not you use them (things like on and off campus discounts). Other services we hope you will never need, but we provide them for those times when you do - if you have ever been faced with the prospect of having to lodge an appeal against a decision of the University, you will know how good it can be to have the staff in our Student Assist offi ce to guide you through the process.

To help us achieve our aim of providing value for money, the Curtin Student Guildʼs focus in 2004 was to:

• Have 100% membership activation.• Deliver increased benefi ts to the general membership.• Deliver targeted benefi ts for special interest groups.

100% MEMBERSHIP ʻACTIVATIONʼIf you donʼt activate your membership with the Guild then you wonʼt be able to access the full range of benefi ts available to you. Therefore, at the Guild, we aim to have 100% of members ʻactivateʼ their Guild membership. In 2004 over 25,000 eligible students activated their membership. We would like to thank those University staff, particularly regional campus staff, we helped us inform the majority of students about the benefi ts of Guild membership.

2005 GOALSThere is more to being a Guild member than just getting a free diary. During 2005 we aim to increase the range of benefi ts available to members, so stay posted – check out GROK magazine, the Guild website and your electronic newsletter. Not only do aim to provide you with more benefi ts, we want to make it easier for you to fi nd out what is on offer, so there is plenty of activity planned; we will be developing a new range of information brochures highlighting the range of member benefi ts as well as redeveloping the Guild website. Also, just to make sure we really know what it is you are looking for, we will be running a number of short surveys throughout the year – so make sure you have your say (and be in the running to win some great prizes as well).

DELIVERING INCREASED BENEFITS We know that your needs are continually changing. At least part of our membership base changes every year as graduating students leave, and new students enrol. What was relevant a year ago may not be relevant today. We therefore work to continually improve services and to adapt to your changing needs. So, how have things changed? Read on ….

On Campus DiscountsGreater appreciation of, and access to member benefi ts is evident in the continual growth of on campus discounts accessed by members at Guild outlets, since VSU was repealed in Western Australia. The following fi gures highlight the growth in discounts received by members:

*Note: these fi gures do not include discounts offered by Guild tenants (such as Fringe Benefi ts, Simply Delicious, Curtin Pharmacy, and The Print Shop).

Off Campus DiscountsThanks to all our members who provide us with feedback about the quality of off campus discount providers. Itʼs great to know which oneʼs provide hassle free discounts (as well as fi nding out which oneʼs to discontinue if they donʼt give value). It was also great to hear about your improved ability to access discounts. New discount providers to join the scheme in 2004 include Miss Maudʼs, Red Rock Noodle Bar, Gelare, Autobahn and Bike Force. Because you have told us that you value these member benefi ts, gathering even more quality discount providers will continue to be a focus of our Member Benefi ts staff during 2005.

Counselling and Advisory ServicesOur Student Assist service has always been popular (particularly around exam results time). Because not everyone can come to us, we have and are continuing to work on ways to get the information you need out to you. A focus for 2004 and 2005 has been to produce a range of fact sheets on the range of topics we are often asked for advice on. These ʻFact Sheetsʼ are available from Guild reception, or on-line from our website. Student Assist also runs a feature article in each edition of the Grok magazine.

Personal Accident InsuranceAll student members of the Guild are covered by Student Accident Insurance, 24 hours a day, 365 days per year for all uni-related accidents that occur on and off campus. Coverage is provided for loss of income, non Medicare medical expenses, physiotherapy and much more. Our Student Assist staff can help you with any enquiries.

JobsThe Guild runs a jobs register. We actively seek out part-time, full-time and casual employment opportunities for Guild Members. The register is updated as positions are lodged with us. Check out our website to view our online listings, which are updated weekly.

Career and Resume AdviceThe Student Assist team can provide you with one-to-one assistance to write your resume, covering letters and job applications. They can give you advice, ideas and tips on how to write that perfect resume to get the job you want.

$112,230

$179,262

$240,727

$-

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

2002 2003 2004

Figure 1 - On Campus Discounts

1414

15

Tax HelpFor Guild members on an income of less than $30,000 per year free tax help is provided during the peak tax lodgement period. The service usually starts around August.

Legal ServicesLife isnʼt always easy and sometimes you need a bit of extra help with legal issues. We have had enquiries in the past from you, asking where you can go to get legal advice. Because you have asked, we have responded and weʼre bringing the help to you. The Guild has been negotiating with several external providers and we plan to trial a ʻfree to membersʼ legal advisory service during the second semester of 2005. Satellite and regional students wonʼt be left out of the picture – we aim to have the service available to you too through either a toll free 1800 phone number, or via a confi dential e-mail enquiry.

Secondhand Bookshop – online servicesWith about 8% of Guild members located at satellite and regional campuses and a further 12% of students studying ʻexternallyʼ we know that you canʼt all easily access the Secondhand Bookshop at Bentley. Therefore, during 2004 we introduced new software to publish contracts online. Members are also now able to conduct an online search of the store database. Further upgrades are planned in 2005. Those members who are studying from Bentley campus werenʼt forgotten either; two public access computer terminals were placed inside the Bookshop to permit searches on student booklists, stock searches, retail price indices and individual contract status.

Sports Wear BargainsCurtin Sports Store continues to offer amazing prices on top brand name sports shoes and clothing and those with a keen eye took the opportunity to snap up some bargain deals throughout the year.

Curtin Branded ProductsWe know that some of you want to be able to let the rest of the world know that you are, or have been, students of Curtin University. You want some memento of the time you spent here. To meet this demand our Sports Store is currently negotiating with the University for the right to develop a broad range of ʻCurtin brandedʼ merchandise (in addition to the clothing items currently available). We hope to see this new range introduced during 2005.

EFTPOS ServicesWe have responded to your feedback and introduced additional EFTPOS payment facilities on campus at Bentley. Purchases can now be made using EFTPOS at the Copy & Design Centre and the Tavern, as well as at Kirribilli café and at Guild Reception.

Prepaid telephone voucher terminalOur members on campus at Bentley, include an increasing number of international students from various corners of the globe. In response to their requests the Copy & Design Centre has introduced a Dial-time prepaid telephone voucher terminal. This terminal offers customers a greater choice of prepaid products for IDD, mobile, internet, mobile games and photo sending capabilities.

Discount drink bottle refi llsAnother way members have been able to get added value is through the Tavern Bistro thermal coffee mugs refi llable soft drink sipper bottles. Once purchased, these are both able to be refi lled at discounted prices. Great value and you help the environment as well.

DELIVER TARGETED BENEFITS We know that, like clothing where ̒ one-sizeʼ doesnʼt fi t all, general services donʼt always meet the needs of all our members. With such a diverse membership base, we therefore aim to identify groups of students with a common interest or issue, where it is viable for us to provide targeted service delivery to meet their needs. Some of the target group services provided include:

Catering to your needsFor those members born in Australia, who have travelled and perhaps even lived overseas, you know how much you can miss the familiar tastes of home. With approximately 23% of Guild members being international students studying at Bentley campus and over 50% of these students coming from South East Asian countries, Guild catering has extended the range of Asian dishes in the Main Café and availability of Asian drinks across campus. Also, in consideration of the more than 6,000 Islamic students at Curtin, we conducted a survey to determine the viability of offering halal food within Guild outlets. Favourable survey results will see one of the Guild cafes converted into a halal outlet in Semester Two of 2005 – watch out for the details.

International Student PublicationParagon – the Guildʼs bi-annual magazine for international students produced by ISC – underwent signifi cant development in 2004. Not only were international student groups represented more widely through the magazine, but the magazine developed clear themes that cross cultural boundaries in each edition.

External and Regional Campus MembersAs you will have noted in previous parts of this report, a signifi cant number of members are studying either regionally or externally. The Guild has targeted benefi ts to meet the special need of this group of members through the following initiatives:• Provision of 1800 phone number access to Guild advisory

services• Provision of funding to regional campus student associations,

to enable students to acquire facilities and services for their campuses.

• Greater promotion of and easier application access to bookshop grants

• Enhancement of the Guild website with features such as CUPSA seminar transcripts posted online.

• Improved access to sporting programmes including state and national University Sports programmes.

Clubs & SocietiesMany of our members participate in special interest groups by forming, or joining clubs and societies. With the number of Guild registered club having increased by 40% in the past two years, we have increased the range and value of benefi ts provided to clubs and societies. Aside from a range of grants and sponsorship funds that clubs can apply for, other benefi ts offered to clubs include discounted venue hire (at Guild Tavern), discounted catering (from Guild catering services) and assistance with event management.

Grok Short Story CompetitionCurtin has many talented writers as evidenced by the large number of students contributing to Grok magazine. To harness this creative talent and provide an avenue for students to have their work published, a short story competition was run through Grok magazine. Dylan Copeland was awarded a $300 prize courtesy of Bankwest for his outstanding short story titled ʻ√Dylanʼ.

Photo: ʻGuild Copy & Design Centreʼ - Artwork & design, colour copying, T-shirt transfers, scanning, laminating or an ordinary black & white copy; the Guild Copy & Design Centre offers a wealth of services for Guild members.

SportsSportsThe number of members participating in sports programs operated and administered by the Guild continues to grow and 2004 was Curtinʼs year to shine on the sporting front (results are listed here).

Social Campus SportIn only its second year of existence, the social Campus Sport programme catered to over 300 participants in both mixed netball and 3-on-3 basketball competitions.

Regional Intervarsity AUSWest Sports As a precursor to national competitions the Regional Intervarsity AUSWest Sports programme provided our athletes with the opportunity to represent Curtin on a regional level. This also provided the athletes with the opportunity to qualify for a place in the national competition. In 2004, there was a 20% increase in the number of students representing the Curtin in the regional programme. A total of 250 students were supported in their endeavours by the Guild. Overall, Curtin fi nished second on the regional ladder.

Australian University Games The highlight of the sporting calendar was the Australian University Games; jointly hosted by all Western Australian Universities and their peak representative body, Australian University Sport.Curtin presented its strongest contingent at an Australian University Games gathering, with over 180 athletes, from fi fteen team and fi ve individual sports events. With outstanding contributions on and off the fi eld, Curtin fi nished in 8th position against 40 other participating Australian Universities and won the coveted Spirit of the Games Award. The Guild was pleased to be able to provide in excess of $11,500 in direct sponsorship to the Curtin University Games team. The Guild also sponsored the cost of team uniforms for all 180 athletes, at a cost of $3,500.

Other competitive sportsThree athletes representing Curtin in the Australian University Surfi ng Championship also received sponsorship from the Guild.

Curtin Sports Awards Curtinʼs sporting achievements were acknowledged at the annual Curtin Sports Awards, hosted by the Guild in October. This event provides an opportunity for the outstanding efforts of Curtin sports stars and administrators to be acknowledged in front of fellow athletes and the University community.

Regional Intervarsity AUSWest: Australian Rules Football 1st

Badminton (Menʼs) 1st

Badminton (Womenʼs) 1st

Cricket – Super 8ʼs 1st

Golf 1st

Hockey (Womenʼs) 1st

Netball (Mixed) 1st

Netball (Womenʼs) 1st

Squash (Menʼs) 1st

Tennis (Womenʼs) 1st

Basketball (Menʼs) 2nd

Dragon Boat Racing 2nd Hockey 7ʼs 2nd Hockey (Menʼs) 2nd Rowing 2nd Table Tennis 2nd Touch Football (Menʼs) 2nd Ultimate Frisbee 2nd

Volleyball (Menʼs) 2nd

Volleyball (Womenʼs) 2nd Basketball (Womenʼs) 3rd

Beach Volleyball 3rd Indoor Soccer 3rd Pool (Eight Ball) 3rd Rugby 7ʼs 3rd Soccer (Menʼs) 3rd Touch Football (Womenʼs) 3rd Tennis (Menʼs) 5th

Touch Football (Mixed) 5th

AUS Games

Team EventsBadminton (Womenʼs) GoldSquash (Menʼs) GoldBadminton (Menʼs) SilverVolleyball (Menʼs) SilverNetball (Womenʼs) BronzeKendo 5th

Australian Rules Football 6th

Cycling 6th

Hockey (Womenʼs) 6th

Tennis (Womenʼs) 6th

Hockey (Menʼs) 7th

Volleyball (Womenʼs) 7th

Touch Football (Menʼs) 8th

Basketball (Menʼs) 13th

Netball (Mixed) 14th

Rugby 7ʼs 15th

Individual EventsTaekwondo

Alison Hanson GoldPhuoc Tran GoldLarissa Markovina Silver

DivingCameron Stevens Gold

Owen DavisSilverand Bronze

Western Spirit AwardCurtin received the inaugural ʻWestern Spirit Awardʼ – a new initiative that recognises the member institution that best exhibits sportsmanship, respect for offi cials, team presentation and enthusiasm at the Regional Games.

Green & Gold Merit Team The following Curtin athletes were selected in the Green & Gold merit teams:• David Hannah - AFL• Annie Lim - Badminton• Olivia Chiu - Hockey• Lloyd Anderson - Hockey• Erin Lloyd - Netball• Rebecca Bignell - Netball• Lucas Oliver - Squash• Xavier Koenig - Squash• Alison Hanson - Taekwondo• Simon Prindiville - Volleyball• Tristan Holden - Volleyball

Curtin Sports Awards- Presidents Shield -

Awarded to Jenny McLaughlin for her contributions as President of the Curtin Netball Club and Treasurer of the Curtin Baseball Club

- Intervarsity Sports Award -Awarded to Allison Hanson, for her achievements in university and national taekwondo events.

- Sports Star of the Year -Lisa Oldenhof - hard work and dedication resulting in the following achievements and recognition as the Curtin Sports Star of the Year• May 2004 – 4th in Olympic K4

500m Qualifi cation Regatta (Poland)

• August 2004 – 6th in Athens Olympics K4 500m event

• 1st in K4 500m, K2 500m and K2 200m Australian Championships 2004

Other noteworthy nominees for the 2004 Sports Star of the Year Award include:• Natalie Bale (Rowing)• Michael Jackson (Swimming)• John Pollinelli (Rowing)• Jennifer Reilly (Swimming)• Tony Ronaldson (Basketball)

ResultsResults

Photo: ʻGuild Tavernʼ - The hub of social activities and relaxation, the Guild Tavern has a range of live entertainment throughout the week making it the perfect place to unwind.1616

Here at the Guild we know that life as a student can be tough. Study may not be physically draining, but it can leave you feeling mentally exhausted. After a hard day (and night, especially when the assignments are due in) of hitting the books, it is really important to kick back and relax, have some fun and do something different. The Guild has a long history of helping students by providing a great range of recreational activities and some of the best events around.

The Guild loves to organise events for your enjoyment and 2004 was no exception, with the range of Guild organised and sponsored events including:• O Camp• Orientation Day• Beach Bash• Clubs and Societies Day• Guild Cocktail Night• End of Semester Tavʼ Band Day• Guild Day (semester 2 orientation)• Curtin DJ Competition• Guild Evening of Elegance Ball• Freakers Ball (Kalgoorlie)• Cocktail party (Muresk)• National Campus Bands Competition• Pasar Malam• Multicultural Week• Oktoberfest

Guild House also contributed greatly to the social and sporting life of students living on campus through provision of in-house and external events, cross-residence sports competitions and many other fun activities.Really Handy Workshops continued to prove popular for students seeking valuable practical life skills at extremely affordable prices. The number of students participating in the programme grew from 262 in 2003 to 313 in 2004; and if fi rst semester of 2005 is anything to go by, weʼll top that number in 2005. The range of really handy workshops have included:• Grow your own food• Shoestring gourmet• Stress management• Coffee appreciation• Introductory bar skills• Keeping your car on the road• Power Point presentation• Web page design• Resume writing skills

Guild Recreation (Guild Rec) again proved to be a highly popular recreational programme with over 708 members and staff enjoying one or more of the 22 courses offered in each semester, including:

RecreationRecreation

Health & Fitness•Yoga (beginners)•Yoga (intermediate)•Tai Chi•Kickboxing•Capoeira,

Lifestyle•Painting •Drawing•Origami •Jewellery making•Didgeridoo

Water Sports•Rowing •Surfi ng (basics)•Surfi ng (intermediate) •Windsurfi ng•Sailing – Dinghy •Keel Boat sailing•Scuba Diving •Sea Kayaking

Sports•Tennis •Golf•AFL footy •Fencing•Kendo•Jishukan •SeiteiIaido & Jodo

Dance•Hip Hop Funk •Bellydancing•Latin & Swing •Salsa •American Tribal Style

Certifi cate Courses•Refl exology & Foot Massage•Swedish Massage•Bar Service

1717

Community SupportCommunity Support

EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARDSWe believe that to encourage excellence in the lecturing, tutoring and research supervision provided to Curtin students you, our members, will benefi t through the receipt of a higher quality of tertiary education. Since their inception in 1999, the Excellence in Teaching Awards have continued to evolve and grow in standing. They are seen as the primary voice for students to recognise superior educators at Curtin.

In light of feedback from the members of the 2003 judging panel, and the continual review by the Guildʼs Education Board, the nomination period was extended until Week 10 of the second semester in 2004.

Based on comprehensive selection criteria, modelled on material from the Australian Vice Chancellery Committee (AVCC), the Centre for Educational Advancement (CEA) and the Australian Awards for University Teaching, XX students submitted nominations on behalf XX undergraduate and postgraduate lecturers, tutors and supervisors.

A panel comprising 7 nominated Guild councillors, a Learning & Support Network representative, academic staff member, and the Chair of Academic Senate awarded the following staff top honours, as nominated by the students of Curtin University of Technology:

AWARD WINNERSUndergraduate Award Winners:Dr Peter Williams, School of Business Law Dr Murray Adams, School of Biomedical Sciences

Postgraduate Research Award Winner:Professor Brian Dibble,School of Communication & Cultural Studies

Postgraduate Coursework Award Winner:Robyn Martin, School of Social Work

Honourable mentions Honourable mentions were awarded to the following lecturers/tutors:

UndergraduateJacinta Goerke,School of Marketing Dr Connie Locher,School of Pharmacy Kate Smith,School of Physiotherapy Jane Sneesby, School of Environmental Biology Iain Murray,School of Electrical & Computer Engineering

Postgraduate (Research)Dr Ian Phau, School of Marketing Associate Professor Janice How, School of Economics & Finance

As a student of Curtin University you are part of a community that numbers over 35,000 people.

Your Guild recognises how important it is to be actively involved with everyone in this community. Whether you are studying ̒ on-campusʼ or ̒ off-campusʼ, whether you are studying at one of the satellite or regional campuses, or whether you are at the home campus of Bentley

On campusSupport of the on-campus community is provided through a range of initiatives that include:

Market stall days- On a regular basis throughout teaching weeks the Guild brings the colour and vibrancy of the markets onto campus for you to enjoy

Curtin Environment Awareness - The Guild council members, as well as Guild staff and many student volunteers assisted with environmental busy bees, cleaning up around campus, as well as planting trees

Practical Support for course work- The Child Care Centre provided course work practical experience for over 180 students of Curtin University

Casual and part-time employment- Through its various retail outlets, as well as during its annual membership initiatives, the Guild provided casual and part-time work opportunities for over 200 students

Off campusBecause the community doesnʼt end at the boundary of your campuses, your Guild is active in providing support to the following community projects:

• Leukaemia Foundation - Shave for a Cure • Australian Red Cross Street Appeal• Red Cross Blood Service Inter Uni Challenge• SIDS Red Nose Day• 40 Hour Famine

1818

SPONSORSHIPAs the number and size of Guild events and costs associated with hosting events increases each year, the Guild is continually sourcing new funding streams to ensure that social activities are provided either at zero cost, or at extremely low cost, for members.

Curtin Student Guild would like to thank the following partners for their support of Guild initiatives in 2004:

SCHWEPPESGuild Evening of Elegance Ball (major sponsor)

2004 Curtin Sports Awards

SMITHS SNACKFOOD COMPANYGuild sports programmes (major sponsor)

BANKWESTGrok Short Story Competition (major sponsor)

COCA COLA

THE DJ FACTORYCurtin DJ Competition (major sponsor)

VODAFONE

CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYSponsor of Curtinʼs University Games team

SWIFT & MOORE

SWAN BREWERY O-Day Tav Show (major sponsor)

UNICREDIT

THE DEEN

NESTLE

MARS

BERRI

PETERS & BROWNES

ANDRONICUS

PartnersPartners

Photo: ʻMegazoneʼ - The Megazone has provided entertainment for many students for over ten years. The longevity of the concept of an amusement centre on campus will be re-assessed by the Guild mid-way 2005.

1919

FacilitiesFacilities

Student expectations of the facilities that are provided to them change over time. While many of the facilities made available to students on campus are provided for or funded by the Guild, there are some things that are totally controlled by the University. The Guild is your voice on the inside of many of the University Boards and Committees that decide how University funds are allocated to the provision of the facilities you need.

For those things that we can directly act on the Guild has developed and implemented a long term capital works program. Our ability to implement this program will be severely restricted if the Federal Government is successful in implementing the Higher Education Support Amendment (Abolition of Compulsory Up-front Student Union Fees) Bill (for more details refer to the Education Vice Presidents report).

RESPONDING TO CHANGE There have been substantial changes to the academic calendar and timetable in recent years. While the number of weeks has decreased, the number and duration of lectures and tutorials within the academic year has grown. These changes have dramatically affected the way you want to see services delivered – particularly when it comes to catering for the food requirements of the 80+% of members studying on the Bentley campus.

Changes to academic timetable = Increased opening hoursThe Guild has responded to these changes by altering the opening hours to better match the times that students are on campus. Main Café, Vege Patch Café and Basement Café now open during study and exam weeks, while the Bookmark, Angazi and Kirribilli cafes are open year round. The trading times at each outlet have also been extended in response to student needs. These changes have received overwhelming support from members.

Government scrapping of textbook subsidy = On-line bookshop servicesWith the Government adding GST to the purchase price of textbooks from June 2004 we realised that students would face increasing fi nancial pressure. To enable students to source cheaper textbooks we invested in the relocation and expansion of the Secondhand Bookshop.

RENOVATION OF GUILD PRECINCTRenovations to the Guild precinct at Bentley were completed in mid-May of 2004. Delays in completion of the work had some impact on the services delivered by retail and catering outlets. Overall the process has been extremely worthwhile; with our Department offi ces each having their own dedicated offi ce space on the main promenade. In addition the clubs have a meeting room and computer resources room that they can share, as well as secure club lockers for storing club records and other resources.

CURTIN UNIVERSITY GUILD CHILD CARE CENTREThe Curtin University Guild Child Care Centre focussed considerable attention on infrastructure in 2004. In addition to repainting the building interior throughout the course of the year, Guild management engaged a specialist consultant to assist the Centre in preparing a fi ve year development plan for the upgrade of the Centreʼs external environment. This will ensure that the Centre continues to remain one of Australiaʼs premier childcare facilities. Plans for a possible future expansion of the Centre have been also prepared and the viability of proceeding with this project will be assessed in 2005.

GUILD HOUSEMaintenance issues continued to be a major focus of Guild House in its aim to provide a pleasant environment in which to live. Residentsʼ bedrooms were upgraded with new beds, fans, heaters, desk lamps, study chairs, blinds, painting and safety equipment. A home theatre system, complete with Foxtel, lounges and air conditioning was also installed in the recreation lounge and has proven to be very popular.

PARKINGParking facilities on the Bentley campus continue to be a major source of concern for students. The University had initially planned to set 2004 student parking permit fees at $92. Intervention by the Guild saw the 2004 fee for an annual permit set at a more reasonable $60. Continued lobbying by the Guild on parking issues saw student parking permit costs increase by a modest $2 per annum for 2005.

BARBEQUESDuring 2004, the University had expressed their concern about the potential risk associated with the increasing number of barbeques being set up around the Bentley campus. To avoid the possibility of having all barbeque use within the campus grounds being banned, the Guild is continuing to work with the University to develop several fi xed barbeque sites. The Guild is also working with the University to develop policy and procedures that will allow students to enjoy continued access to these facilities in the future.

2020

Facilities AccountabilityAccountabilityR

es

po

ns

ibil

ity

&R

es

po

ns

ibil

ity

&

RISK MANAGEMENT & INSURANCERisk Management continued to be a high priority, with policies and procedures being formalised across all areas of operation. The Guild has established a strong relationship with its insurance brokers and their support has facilitated improved safety standards, resulting in insurance premium reductions.

HEALTH & SAFETYThe Guild also began a major Occupational Health and Safety awareness campaign in late 2003 and is continuing to be a high priority area for us. The Child Care Centre and Food & Beverage departments introduced a Manual Handling programme. The increased emphasis on safety has been rewarded by a reduction in our already low rate of work related injuries. A number of staff, representing all areas of the Guild, received senior fi rst aid training; this will enable us to deal effectively with emergency situations for staff and members.

FOOD SAFETYFood Safe Accreditation training was held for all catering staff at the beginning of 2004 and all Guild cafes sought and received accreditation during the year. The Guild regularly audits its Food Safe Accreditation procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards.

CURTIN UNIVERSITY GUILD CHILD CARE CENTRE ACCREDITATIONThe Curtin University Guild Child Care Centre is operated at the highest industry standards. Already holding accreditation from the National Child Care Accreditation Council (NCCAC), the Centre is conducting an internal audit of all procedures in preparation for the 2005 renewal.

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITYGuild management have placed an increased emphasis on ensuring full transparency and accountability within the Guildʼs fi nancial processes. With the pending introduction of International Accounting Standards, the Guild has supported the ongoing professional development of its Finance and Administration Department (of the four staff, two are CPA qualifi ed and the other two are presently undertaking tertiary studies in this fi eld). With the approval of the University, the Guild has also appointed new auditors. The Guild believes that Bentleys MRI will be better able to better support endeavours for continuous improvement in all administrative practices.

GUILD INFRASTRUCTUREInternal support services play a major role in facilitating effi cient and effective delivery of member services. The IT department tightened up technological standards and improved user support to ensure the Guild operates at maximum effi ciency.

INDUSTRY AFFILIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPSThe Guild has affi liations to many industry bodies. Through these affi liations we are able to ensure that we maintain current professional standards for all aspects of our operations. We also support the ongoing professional development of staff and support their affi liation to professional industry groups and associations. Some of the affi liations held by the Guild and its staff include:

National Union of StudentsAustralasian Campus Union Managersʼ AssociationThe Council of Australian Postgraduate AssociationsWA Council of Social Services Australian and New Zealand Student Service Association

(ANZSSA) Australian University SportAustralian Institute of ManagementAustralian Human Resources InstituteCarewestCommunity Child CareCSSUCPA Early Childhood AustraliaResource Unit for Special NeedsEthnic Child Care Centre Resource UnitNational Child Care Accreditation CouncilAustralian Breastfeeding AssociationAustralian Association of Campus Activities

LOOKING FORWARDSThe Guild is continually reviewing the performance of its trading operations. We believe that these operations must be run on a full commercial basis so that they can continue to operate and be viable, regardless of changes to State or Federal legislation that may impact on Guild membership numbers. Ideally, while keeping prices as low as possible for all our members, these outlets should also provide some nett return to the Guild so that core (free) services can be provided to all members and so that facilities can be maintained over the longer term. A few outlets have been identifi ed as not meeting these objects and a number of new retail services will be investigated for 2006. This will ensure that the Guild continues to offer a wide variety of viable and low cost services relevant to the entire Curtin community.

Photo: ʻBookmark Caféʼ - Open from 8am - 8pm (Mon - Thurs), 8am - 6pm (Fri) and 11am - 3pm (Sat/Sun), the Bookmark Café is the place for a caffein hit or snack to keep Guild members focussed on their studies. 2121

Photo: ʻKirribilli Caféʼ - Set in the picturesque John Curtin Centre, Kirribilli Café is the fl agship of Guild catering. The award winning restaurant/café offers fine dining for student prices.

2222

Financial PerformanceFinancial PerformanceS

tate

me

nt

of

Sta

tem

en

t o

f

Year Ended 31 December 2004

Curtin University Student Guild2004 2003

$ $Sales Revenue 5,873,211 5,719,221less Cost of Sales (2,954,784) (2,855,257)Gross Surplus from Trading 2,918,427 2,863,964

plus other Operating Revenueplus non-Operating Revenue

3,614,257163,822

3,442,0536,545

less Expenses from Ordinary Activities (6,974,967) (5,932,730)

Surplus / (Defi cit) before Tax Expense (278,461) 379,832

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONAs at 31 December 2004

Curtin University Student Guild2004 2003

$ $Current AssetsCash 2,216,024 1,829,808Receivables 282,964 547,938Inventory 340,728 335,657Other 105,000 63,689Total Current Assets 2,944,716 2,777,092

Non-Current AssetsReceivables 0 104,356Property, Plant & Equipment (nett) 3,755,948 4,224,709Intangibles 332 12,695Total Non-Current Assets 3,756,280 4,341,760

Total Assets 6,700,996 7,118,852

Current LiabilitiesCreditors 573,482 702,586Provisions 241,532 89,017Total Current Liabilities 815,014 791,603

Non-Current LiabilitiesCreditors 38,348 188,216Provisions 44,571 57,510Total Non-Current Liabilities 82,919 245,726

Total Liabilities 897,933 1,037,329

Nett Assets 5,803,063 6,081,523

Guild EquityAccumulated Surplus 5,618,063 5,896,523Reserves 185,000 185,000Total Guild Equity 5,803,063 6,081,523

2323

Year ended 31 December 2004

2004$

Cash at Bank (at the beginning of the fi nancial year) 1,829,808plusDeposits 12,060,379lessDrawings ( 11,674,163)Nett Cash Flow for Year 386,216

Cash at Bank (at the end of the fi nancial year) 2,216,024

Cash FlowsCash FlowsS

tate

me

nt

of

Sta

tem

en

t o

f

Operating Revenue 2004

$2,172,114 = 22.5%

$7,366,279 = 76.3%

$100,768= 1.1%

$12,131 = 0.1%

Sales Revenue

Amenities & Services Fee

Interest Revenue

Gain on Asset Disposal

Photo: ʻCurtin Sports Storeʼ - After offering the best deals on quality sports and fashion products, the Curtin Sports Store will close its doors by the end of 2005 to be replaced by a Juice bar with extended services.2424

Total Operating Expenses 2004

Student ServicesRepresentation, Advocacy & Advisory $507,136Student Support (Student Assist) $208,721Membership Services $308,832Student Discounts $236,081Student Publications $181,124Sport & Recreation $314,493Student Housing $778,755Second Hand Bookshop $609,968University ASF Admin Fee $143,193Other Student Support Costs $680,377

sub-total Student Services $3,968,680

Trading Costs & OverheadsTrading services $5,346,177Student Council & NUS $159,400Guild Administration $685,021

sub-total Student Services $6,190,598

Total Expenditure $10,159,278

Note: a full copy of the audited fi nancial reports can be found on the Guildʼs website.

Operating Expense - Student Services 2004

Representation, Advocacy & Advisory

Student Support (Student Assist)

Membership Services

Student Discounts

Student Publications

Sport & Recreation

Student Housing

Second Hand Bookshop

University ASF Admin Fee

Other Student Support Costs

$507,136

$208,721

$308,832

$236,081

$181,124

$314,493

$778,755

$609,968

$143,193

$680,377

2525

Council GovernanceCouncil Governance

Guild Finance & Planning Board No. of meetings

Eligible AttendedKristal Mihal (Chair) 14 14Robert Boyle 14 8Candice Chua 14 3Amy Mellor 14 8Thuy Huong Tran 14 14Tiffany Soh 14 10

Guild Representation & Advocacy Board No. of meetings

Eligible AttendedKristal Mihal (Chair) 3 3David Goncalves 3 3Renae Hosie 3 0Norman Jacka 3 1Drew Johnston 3 0Patricia Ryder 3 0Nicole Scanes 3 1Tim Simmons 3 1Jacky Teo 3 1

Guild Education Board No. of meetings

Eligible AttendedKristal Mihal (Chair) 16 15Emma Davies 16 14David Goncalves 16 14Patrick Gorman 16 14Bennett Greenhalgh 16 12Tim Simmons 16 12Dean Vallve 16 14David Wheeler 16 14

Guild Membership Committee No. of meetings

Eligible AttendedKristal Mihal (Chair) 19 19David Goncalves 19 13Patrick Gorman 19 13Nathan Low 19 18Katie McGregor 19 15Josh Richards 19 15

Guild Legal Committee No. of meetings

Eligible AttendedRikki Hendon (Chair) 5 5Marcus Cheu 5 2Kristal Mihal 5 5Thuy Huong Tran 5 4

Incorporated under the University Act 1966, Curtin Student Guild is the recognised means of communication between its members and the Council. Guild Council holds ultimate responsibility for the management and actions of the Curtin Student Guild. The Council provides broad direction to the Guild in order to deliver the best services to members. In accepting nomination to Guild Council, elected students are required to actively participate in University and Guild decision making through various boards and committees. Below is a full account of Councillor participation in such boards and committees for 2004.

Guild Council Number of meetings

Name Position HeldEligible

to attend Attended

Executive Offi cers (voting)

Kristal Mihal Guild President 14 14

David Goncalves Education Vice President 14 13

Nathan Low Activities Vice President 14 12

Thuy Huong Tran General Secretary 14 14

Divisional Representatives (voting)

Bennett Greenhalgh Business 14 12

David Wheeler Engineering & Science 14 14

Emma Davies Health Sciences 11 11

David Dydek (retired) Health Sciences 3 1

Dean Vallve Resources & Environment 12 11

Amanda Opperman (retired) Resources & Environment 2 1

Patrick Gorman Humanities 14 14

Guild Councillors (voting)

Rikki Hendon (Council Chairperson) 14 13

Robert Boyle 14 9

Candice Chua 14 4

Norman Jacka 14 14

Katie McGregor 14 14

Josh Richards 14 9

Tiffany Soh 14 11

Jason Ting 11 9

Amy Mellor (retired) 10 6

Natasha Stallard (retired) 3 1

Department Offi cers (voting)

Tim Simmons CUPSA President 14 12

Jacky Teo ISC Convenor 14 12

Other Offi cers (voting)

Terry Healy Immediate Past-President 14 7

Zaneta Mascarenhas NUS West President 14 14

Department Offi cers (non voting)

Patricia Ryder Indigenous Department 11 1

Drew Johnston Part-time & Mature Aged Department 13 7

Renae Hosie Sexuality Department 14 6

Nicole Scanes Womenʼs Department 8 1

Photo: ʻMain Cafeteriaʼ - Under head chef John Kriszyk, the team at the Main Cafeteria prepares food from around the globe to suit all tastes and diets. Watch out for the $3.50 specials and their delicious chicken saté.2626

University Boards & CouncilsUniversity Boards & CouncilsG

uil

d r

ep

re

se

nta

tio

n o

nG

uil

d r

ep

re

se

nta

tio

n o

n Kristal Mihal – Guild President•University Council •Academic Senate •Facilities Committee •Fees and Charges Committee •Information Plan Advisory Committee • Student Progress Committee •Planning and Management Committee Monitoring Meetings •Higher Education Support Act Implementation Steering Committee •The Planning Advisory Group •OASIS Steering Committee •Academic Promotions Review Committee •Access and Parking Advisory Committee •Occupational Safety and Health Policy Committee •Asset Management Plan Advisory Committee •Online Solutions Advisory Committee • Library and Information Services Advisory Committee • Student Housing Advisory Board •Bookshop Advisory Committee • University Counselling and Health Services Advisory Committee •Disability Reference Group •Community Engagement Plan Working Party •Online Class Registration Implementation Steering Committee •Commonwealth Learning Scholarships Panel •Parking Facilities Working Party •Staff Selection Panels

David Goncalves – Education Vice President•Academic Board •University Teaching & Learning Committee •Courses Committee •Admissions & Matriculation Committee

Nathan Low – Activities Vice President •O-Week Steering Committee •International Students Advisory Group •Occupational Health & Safety Representatives Committee •Curtin Environmental Action Group •Curtin Action Team

Thuy Huong Tran – General Secretary•Ethics, Equity & Social Justice Committee •Library & Information Service Advisory Committee •International Offi ce Student Advisory Group •Human Communication Science Advisory Board

Emma Davies – Health Sciences Divʼ Repʼ•Health Sciences Academic Board • Health Sciences Teaching & Learning Commʼ

Patrick Gorman – Humanites Divʼ Repʼ•Humanities Teaching & Learning Committee •Humanities Management Board • Humanities Ethics, Equity & Social Justice Committee

Bennett Greenhalgh – Business Divʼ Repʼ•CBS Board •CBS Teaching & Learning Committee •CBS Courses Committee •CBS staff selection panels

David Wheeler – Engʼg Science & Compʼg Divʼ Repʼ•ESC Teaching & Learning Committee •ESC Divisional Board •ESC Divisional Board of StudyScience Faculty Board •Student Progress Committee

Dean Vallve – Resources & Environment Divʼ Repʼ•R&E Teaching & Learning Committee •R&E Divisional Board •R&E Divisional Board of Study •Science Faculty Board •Student Progress Committee

Robert Boyle – Guild Councillor•Ethic, Equity & Social Justice Committee •Health Service Advisory Committee

Candice Chua – Guild Councillor•University Development Board •Cultural Projects Committee •University Ethics Committee

Rikki Hendon – Guild Councillor•Ethic, Equity & Social Justice Committee •Health Service Advisory Committee

Norman Jacka – Guild Councillor•John Curtin Gallery Advisory Board • Human Research Ethics Committee

Katie McGregor – Guild Councillor•Artist in Residence Committee •Priority Equity Reference Group

Amy Mellor – Guild Councillor•Womenʼs Committee •Healthy Lifestyle Management Committee

Josh Richards – Guild Councillor•Curtin Radio Advisory Board •Curtin Environment Committee •Hazardous Chemicals Committee

Tiffany Soh – Guild Councillor•Bookshop Advisory Committee •Library & Info Services Advisory Committee

Natasha Stallard – Guild Councillor•Curtin Environment Committee •Health Service Advisory Committee 2727

Supporting Students - Standing Strong Supporting Students - Standing Strong

tm

2005

Curtin Student Guild

Annual General MeetingIf youʼre a Guild member, shouldnʼt you see what the Curtin Student Guild has done for you in 2004? Scrutinise the annual report, attend the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday August 17, start at 12.30pm, in the Guild Tavern Beergarden (with access for under-age students) and ask the offi ce-bearers the tough questions!

wednesday August 17 - 12.30pm s tar t

tavern beergarden - access al l ages