the gazette july 2015

July 2015Volume 6 No 6

Monthly Newsletter

THEGazette

In the next few weeks, computer gamers all over the world could be testing their mettle in a lively strategy game produced in Albany.Great Southern Institute of Technology

student Jeff Cocking has broken into the competitive global computer gaming market with a product which has been accepted for publishing by a company in the UK.Jeff, who created the game as part of his

Diploma of Interactive Digital Media, is a step closer to his ambition of becoming an independent games developer, and is already planning a sequel.Jeff’s meticulous attention to detail and

keen sense of humour come to the fore in

the game, in which players unlock objects for attack, defence and fuel, and earn currency.Called Defend the Highlands, it is set in

Scotland, where the locals fight off invaders from England, Wales and Ireland using weapons such as haggis, porridge bowls, golf clubs, cheese wheels and turnips.Fuel for a strong defence is in the form of

porridge, so the Scots have to harvest oats for sustenance. For their part, the enemies must destroy the oat fields while attacking the Scots with a terrifying arsenal including teapots and potatoes, and try to steer clear of the drunken Scotsmen at the whisky bars.

Continued on page 2

Media course a game changerDiploma of Interactive Digital Media student Jeff Cocking has produced a computer game which has been picked up by a UK publisher.

Great Southern Gazette – July 20152

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I wasn’t banking on a publisher being interested... but I had nothing to lose.

From page 1In the second half of

the 20 levels, the Scots take the battle to their enemies in England, where settings include subway stations and landmarks such as Stonehenge and Buckingham Palace.Leading the band of

Scotsmen is the fearsome Alfredo, a character Jeff said he had in mind for several years.A Scotsman with a Latin

name is part of the satire.“He’s a joke character, and

he gave me the idea for the game,” Jeff said, clearly enjoying the result.“It takes five to six hours

to complete the story mode, but there’s plenty of replay value in skirmish mode, where you can play custom matches,” he added.“It starts easy and ramps

up.”Once the game had been

tested by Jeff and his classmates, he prepared to market it by producing a video trailer and media pack, publishing these online through his website – the Kilted Camel – and sending details and links to the website to games publishers throughout the world.“I wasn’t banking

on a publisher being interested because it’s very competitive, but I had nothing to lose,” Jeff said.One company in the

UK showed interest and interviewed Jeff on Skype. “When they sent the

contract, I was so excited,” Jeff laughed.He signed up and Defend

the Highlands, a game for Windows, Mac and Linux computers, will be sold on the world’s foremost gaming portal Steam at a cost of $12.99 from 31 July.

The skills he gained at Great Southern Institute of Technology have set Jeff up for an exciting future.He took the Certificate III

in Media, Certificate IV in Digital and Interactive Games and this year, the Diploma of Interactive Digital Media.“In the Certificate IV

course, we worked as a group,” Jeff explained.“I made mistakes on that

project, so when I started

my own game, I knew what I was doing,” he said.“But I learnt a lot while

working on this game as well.”Design and Media Lecturer

Paul Kelly said having the game published had been a huge result for Jeff.“It’s a really positive

outcome for an emerging independent games developer,” Paul said.“It’s a first for this institute,

and I also suspect it might be a first for Albany,” he said. “I’m proud of him and

in awe of what he has achieved – it’s a testament to his hard work.”Now enjoying the result of

his year-long project and hoping for good worldwide sales, Jeff is not resting on his laurels.He is planning the sequel,

in which the Scots travel around the world in helium airships shaped like giant bagpipes.“And because haggis

can’t be imported to most countries, they will build their own haggis factories,” Jeff laughed.“I have a lot of new ideas

for the next one.”The game trailer is

on Jeff’s website at kiltedcamel.com.

Media course a game changer

kiltedcamel.com

Great Southern Gazette – July 2015 3

For many Great Southern Institute of Technology students, the rewards of study can include walking into a great job at the end of it.Albany teenager James

Roberts found his niche during his Certificate III in Tourism course last year.Then on a trip to Albany’s

former whaling station and tourist icon Discovery Bay as part of his studies, he heard about a vacancy as a retail assistant and part-time tourist guide there.James eagerly applied –

and was delighted when he landed the position.While he has learnt a lot

about Albany’s whaling industry and other aspects of the city’s past since he started work in November, he is always keen to boost his knowledge.He explained that

Discovery Bay included a botanic garden and native animal park, but he was employed in the historic whaling station section, one of the region’s major attractions.After two months of training

with other tour guides, he recently started to take tours of his own, accompanying

visitors around the fascinating site.He shares his knowledge

of the station and its function, explaining why it closed, the activities carried out in the various work areas and the purpose for the machinery – some of which has been preserved and is still operational.Rich in media, the

experience includes artefact displays, photographic and art galleries, a Spectravision theatre, a 3D film theatre and the Cheynes IV whale chaser, about all of which James must be able to answer questions.

Tourism was a natural choice of career for the sociable young man. “I meet people from many

different countries, and I enjoy talking to them,” James said.“And I can guide them to

other tourist attractions in Albany,” he added.“The town is steeped in

history, and the Anzac connection has sparked interest for a lot of people.”He recommends the Great

Southern Institute tourism course for anyone who is serious about pursuing a career in that growing area.

Continued on page 4

Having a Certificate III in Tourism on his résumé helped James Roberts to secure his perfect job.

James discovers his ideal career


From page 3“We had a great lecturer, we learnt a lot

and we went to all sorts of different places around Albany,” James said. “It improves your

confidence and it’s fun as well as educational,” he said.“Tourism is definitely

something a lot of people should study, and TAFE was very supportive.”A highlight of the course for James was

accompanying a group of students of English as a Second Language to the

animal park, where he acted as their private tour guide.Now happily ensconced in a job he loves

and is proud of, James has a bright outlook for his work in the tourism industry.“I’m very happy here, and

I might move to Perth in the future to study history and tourism,” he said.“This is an area I really

want to work in.”As the whale watching boats circle nearby

Seal Rock on a sunny winter’s morning, it’s easy to see the attraction.

James discovers his ideal career

[The course] improves your confidence and it’s fun as well as educational.

Where have the library and bookshop gone?

The Library Resource Centre and bookshop at the Albany campus are undergoing complete refurbishment from July to December 2015.They are now operating

together from the temporary location in the demountable buildings at the far end of the main

car park – next to the automotive workshop. See the map above.Students can still access

help with research and study resources from a broad range of databases, equipment and current technologies.Although the bookshop

no longer sells stationery,

course textbooks are in stock and others may be ordered.When the building

work is completed at the end of the year, the library and bookshop will operate together from the impressive new Institute Learning Centre in their former location


From the MD’s Desk

I would like to thank everyone for their kind words and good wishes since I announced my retirement.My farewell morning

tea has been organised for 10am on Wednesday 22 July in George’s Restaurant at the Albany campus, and I look forward to the opportunity to say goodbye to current and former staff before I hand over the reins the next day.I am confident that I am

leaving the institute in good hands. I wish Chris Jones the

best of luck in his role of Acting Managing Director for at least the next six months, until a new MD is appointed. I trust you will give

Chris the same support you have given me over the years.Thank you also to the

Governing Council,

whose wide expertise and constant support have been invaluable.I would also like

to acknowledge the performance of staff in all areas and thank you for your diligence and dedication, which have given Great Southern Institute an enviable reputation for excellence.We also have one

of the highest student satisfaction rates in the State and I know the high regard in which we are held by other training providers is due to the contribution of everyone at this institute.Within the next two

years, the institute will benefit from changes I have put in place. Perhaps the most

exciting of these is the revolutionary customer-centred student management system. From a client

perspective, this is contemporary software which will allow prospective students to select their courses online, download and submit all the necessary forms and documents and then proceed to their classes. It sounds easy, but I am sure staff will be investing much time and energy on the implementation of this efficient and highly beneficial system to ensure the institute and our clients get the most out of it.Right now, we have

good enrolment numbers for Semester 2, and I leave the institute in a sound financial position.I have been proud to be

your MD for the past 22 years.Goodbye, good luck

and all the very best for the future.

Lidia

Goodbye and thank you


After nearly 22 years at the helm of the region’s largest training provider, Great Southern Institute of Technology Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa will retire on 23 July.Lidia joined the organisation in August

1993 on a three-month contract as the first female principal of a WA TAFE institution. Her two decades have been coloured

by the IT revolution, resources booms and global economic uncertainty, and the content and delivery of training have changed to reflect the needs of communities, industry and business.Under her strong and decisive leadership,

the institute has evolved from a small government college providing technical education, to one of the region’s largest employers with an annual turnover of more than $20 million and a workforce of 250. In 1993, the organisation delivered

250,000 hours of training with annual student enrolments at about 1000. In 2014, it delivered 1.2 million hours of training and achieved enrolments of 7300. Lidia’s sound management of financial

resources and reserves makes Great Southern Institute of Technology one of the few State Training Providers consistently operating in surplus.She joined the TAFE system in 1966 as

a lecturer and moved into various senior lecturing and management positions at Central and West Coast Colleges of TAFE. In 1991, she was appointed Associate

Director Academic at Central, with responsibility for the management of education and training, before relocating to Albany in 1993.Among her greatest achievements during

her time in the Great Southern, she said, had been witnessing the growth of the institute and its representation across the region.“We offer world-class training, and we

have inspired and empowered many people in the local communities and beyond,” she said, explaining some of the institute’s courses were delivered in the Northern Territory and Queensland.On her arrival in Albany, Lidia set herself a

focus to enrich the lives of everyone in the community.“I have a strong belief in lifelong learning,

so people stay active, alert and excited,” she said.

Continued on page 7

Great Southern Institute of Technology Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa will retire on 23 July.

Impressive legacy of long-serving MDfarewellLidia


From page 6“A high proportion of the population across

the Great Southern has attended this college for qualifications or lifestyle courses over the years.” She said her greatest pride was in the

outstanding performance of the institute’s staff in all areas, and their commitment to providing quality training.“It is because of their expertise and

dedication that our student satisfaction rates have been consistently among the State’s highest,” she said.Lidia holds a Bachelor of Education and

numerous other academic qualifications, and has served on many educational and community boards and committees at local, State and national level.She was named Business Person of the

Year by the Albany Chamber of Commerce

and Industry in 2013 for her services to local business, and the institute won the title of Large Training Provider of the Year for WA in 2008. While she is now preparing to move to

Perth to be closer to her children and 14-month-old grandson, Lidia does not intend to rest on her laurels.She will continue to work for her favourite

charity, the Variety Club of WA, which she has supported since 1998 on Variety Bashes around Australia, raising more than $140,000.“I plan to carry out occasional consultancy

work and donate my fee to Variety,” Lidia said.“And as a babushka, it’s time I took

responsibility for some babysitting duties,” she said.She will also spend more time riding her

Harley-Davidson motorcycles and travelling overseas, starting with a trip to China in October, followed by a Harley-Davidson convention in Bali and a cruise on the Queen Mary in 2016.

Impressive legacy of long-serving MD

See more photos from Lidia’s 22 years of service on pages 8 and 9

farewellLidia


farewellLidia


Treasury has allocated $11 million across the WA training sector to assist us in the transition to a new student business process.The preferred system will go live at

Central Institute in April next year, and we expect to be using it at our institute in two years’ time.For us, the first stage of this reform

will be the implementation of a new timetabling system, which will bolt on to our student business process later.Although we have carried out

timetabling manually for more than 40 years, this new software will revolutionise and simplify our business. Chris Jones and I have investigated

two timetabling systems – Syllabus Plus and CELCAT – which have been implemented at Central, West Coast and South West Institutes.Syllabus Plus is used in universities

and large Perth TAFE institutes, and CELCAT, which is more suitable for smaller organisations such as ours, is the one we will adopt.

The perils of room ownershipOur current room ownership model is

working against us. We have empty classrooms at some times and a high demand at others, because rooms are allocated to one portfolio, rather than being used by classes in any study area.To end this room ownership issue, we

need a timetabling and space-planning system which lets us put any type of room in the hands of a lecturer when they need it.With CELCAT, a lecturer can specify

a room configuration and the system will find a suitable room for the class.

High-tech timetables accommodating lecturer preferencesThe preferences of individual

lecturers should be consistently and fairly taken into account when timetables are built. We all have unique life circumstances

and working preferences, yet there is currently no real guarantee that these could determine the best timetable for a staff member.Continued on page 11

Timetabling system the cat’s whiskers

The CELCAT system for room allocation and timetabling will be the first stage of the state-of-the-art student management system to be implemented in two years’ time.


From page 10 With CELCAT, the exact preferences

of individual lecturers are built into the software's data set. It allows for these as closely as

possible when building a timetable, while also accommodating factors which influence the timing and delivery, such as student needs, space availability, and industrial agreements.While it might not deliver the perfect

result for everyone in every instance, CELCAT will provide greater accuracy and flexibility for both lecturers and students than the manual system we have now.CELCAT will do all this complicated

work for us, looking at thousands of possible timetabling permutations and working out those best suited to the needs of staff and students.It also ensures appropriate class

breaks, for more attentive and engaged students.

Real information about how we use spaceThe old timetabling methods and the practice of block-booking rooms have also obstructed our insight into space utilisation.A survey into room usage found about

40 per cent of room bookings in the current system were inaccurate.This erroneous information hinders

meaningful decisions on our investment in facilities, such as whether to build computer labs, small classrooms with projectors or rooms with easy access to wet areas.It also raises questions about days

and times for classes – such as room availability on Mondays and Fridays if timetables are built from Tuesday to Thursday.Without reliable data, we cannot put

forward a case for State Government funding for more special-purpose rooms.CELCAT will tell us exactly which room

configurations are necessary, right down to the unit level. When we introduce it, we will be able

to build precise descriptions of how much space of what type we need to accommodate our delivery.

The creamAlong with other institutes where CELCAT is also being rolled out, we will raise our insight into space requirements to the same level as the State's universities and major TAFEs for the first time. We will now plan and negotiate with

sophistication and confidence and do so much more convincingly than many others vying for the same limited public capital funds.I have detailed three good reasons for

introducing a centralised timetabling system. There are others but these will be our priorities. There will be challenges as we roll out CELCAT but nothing good ever comes easily. As a computer-literate and mature

training provider, moving to a centralised timetabling system is a matter of ‘when’ not ‘if’. It's up to us to make the best of this

inevitable change. When the system is rolled out we will be ready and happy to embrace it, as we will have done all the hard yards.I leave you with this exciting challenge

and I hope you all welcome it with the spirit in which it will be implemented. We will appoint a project officer to

assist us on this journey soon. Also, a special-purpose training or computer room – for the implementation of systems and processes – will be set aside for staff training only in the new Institute Learning Centre.

– MD Lidia Rozlapa

Timetabling system


The decision to leave high school in Year 11 was one of the best Scott Majidi has ever made.He didn’t sacrifice his

education, though; he exchanged school for the adult learning environment of Great Southern Institute of Technology.Scott is one of a growing

number of young people who are discovering the benefits of TAFE qualifications to gain entry into university rather than staying at high school in Years 11 and 12.Now in his second year

at Murdoch University, where he is studying for a BA with a double major in screen production and sound engineering, Scott has his sights set firmly on becoming a film maker or a film music composer.When he started Year 11

at high school in 2011, Scott said, he was not enjoying it, so he and his parents researched the alternatives.“We looked at TAFE and

found that completing the Certificates II and III in General Education for Adults [CGEA] would be a good start on my path to uni,” he said.

From the time he walked into the classroom, Scott was sure he had made the right move.“The lecturers were

extremely supportive and they explained the assignments and tasks very clearly,” he said.“There was a good

dynamic between students and lecturers – you were treated like adults, unlike in the high school setting.”“You had freedom and you

were empowered to take control of your own study.”

Scott found this had helped him in the transition to university.“Some of the uni students

who came straight from high school have said it had not prepared them for the way uni is structured,” Scott said.Other benefits, he said,

included relevant training.“TAFE offers the

opportunity to explore more about what you want to achieve rather than be held back by the high school curriculum,” he said.

Continued on page 13

Scott calls the tune on his study

Scott Majidi, who started his higher education at Great Southern Institute of Technology, is anticipating an exciting career in the world of film.


From page 12“You develop your abilities

and learn the foundations such as good literary skills,” he said.“These give you

preparation for life, rather than training you for something you’re not going to do,” he said.At the end of his course,

Scott chose to move to Perth to take higher TAFE qualifications in his specialised area before going to university.

A vocalist who also plays the piano, guitar, trombone and trumpet, Scott had a garage band in Albany. He is now developing the skills and experience from his passion with music to lead him into a rewarding career.He is also relishing his

degree course, which will help him to achieve his dream.

The affable young man recommends the CGEA through TAFE to high school students who might be looking for an alternative

study path, whether or not they are considering going to university.“Your future career is like

a tree, and this is its ground roots,” he said.“My advice is whatever

your passion, whatever your ambition, whatever your dream, keep them big,” he said.“Going to TAFE is another

way of pursuing what you want.”Clearly contented with his

achievements so far, Scott is happy with the choices he has made, and can look forward to an exciting future in the film industry.“I wouldn’t be where I am

today if I hadn’t taken the course at Great Southern Institute,” he said.

In 2015, students aged 15 to 17 years may enrol at Great Southern Institute of Technology with tuition fees capped at $410, regardless of the number of qualifications taken.Benefits include:• Gaining more qualifications sooner. Enrolling in a Certificate II course at high

school can bring a qualification at the end of two years. The same course at TAFE can be completed in one semester, allowing the student to complete another two or three qualifications within the same two-year period.

• Concentrating their studies on an area in which they are interested. Tailoring study can keep students engaged and on track for higher education.

• The adult environment. Students take responsibility for their own learning and control their study and leisure time.

• Adding value to training. Students can enrol in workshops or short courses in areas such as first aid, barista, White Card and WorkSafe licences, without paying extra tuition fees.

• Training pathways. These can lead to higher certificate or diploma courses – or university.

For more information on capped tuition fees for 2015, visit the institute’s website www.gsit.wa.edu.au or phone 9892 8888.

Scott calls the tune on his study

Going to TAFE is another way of pursuing what you want.

Capped fees boost TAFE’s attraction for high school students


It was a very successful semester for education support this year. It was the first delivery of the new

training package, with the course changing from 14 units to 17. It was also the largest class for many years with 19 students enrolled (14 full time and five part time). Students came from Albany, Mount

Barker, Denmark and Manypeaks.Out of these students, 11 have gained

regular paid education support work! Our only male student was successful in securing six months of full-time employment at Woodbury Boston Primary School. Semester 1 also saw the first delivery

of VETiS – with five students attending one day a week (joining classes with the full-time students). These students are on track to complete the course in Term 3 2016.

Delivery of the course was facilitated by six Great Southern Institute lecturers – Lizzie Bigwood, Rebecca Lovitt, Lisa Hassell, Sally Lawrie, Anne Parker and Paula Foenander. Moodle is becoming a more widely

used resource and students have been enjoying accessing resources online. The new classroom and building have also been a pleasure to work out of.On our school placement visits, we

came across four of our past education support students who are now classroom teachers. They used the qualification as a

pathway to university. There is strong interest for the

Certificate IV in Education Support in Semester 2, and already expressions of interest for the next delivery of Certificate III in Semester 1 2016.

– Rebecca Lovitt

Classrooms beckon dedicated group

Semester 1 education support students celebrate the end of their course.


Young people at the PCYC are having fun using a skateboard ramp made by a group of teenagers at Great Southern Institute of Technology.The TryTech students built the ramp

as part of the carpentry and joinery component of their course under the guidance of TryTech Coordinator Steve Cann. After testing it, the students declared it suitable for donation to a community youth project. Taking delivery of the ramp, PCYC

Manager Terry Eaton said it would be well used.“We will add it to all the other things

we do in the centre and outside,” Mr Eaton said.“Thanks very much to TAFE for

thinking of us.”

Teens ramp up support for youth

TryTech Coordinator Steve Cann with PCYC Manager Terry Eaton and the skateboard ramp.

In this month’s QIG article, we look at the requirements for validation under the Standards for RTOs 2015. See Part 2 of validation in next month’s Gazette.

For the purposes of Clause 1.9 of the Standards for RTOs 2015, the validation of an RTO’s assessment practices and judgements is undertaken by one or more persons who are not directly involved in the particular instance of delivery and assessment of the training product being validated, and who collectively have:• Vocational competencies and

current industry skills relevant to the assessment being validated.

• Current knowledge and skills in vocational teaching and learning.

• The training and assessment qualification or assessor skill set referred to in Item 1 or 3 of Schedule 1 (the Certificate IV in TAE or the assessor skill set).

Industry experts may be involved in validation to ensure this combination of expertise is met.

The major difference from the AQTFThe new regulations specify that those

who undertake the validation process require a degree of independence, current knowledge and formal qualification.So if you are the person delivering the

unit you can attend but not be one of the validators.

There is no need to have a lot of people on the team though, as long as there is the combination of expertise – that is the Certificate IV in TAE, knowledge of VET and current industry knowledge.

Validation under the new standards


Reconciliation Action Plan 2014-2015In launching its Reconciliation Action Plan last October, Great Southern Institute of Technology demonstrated its commitment to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people so that together, real benefits can be achieved for the wider community.To highlight Indigenous issues and track our progress as defined by the plan, The

Gazette publishes an article every month.Following on from the recent commemoration of Sorry Day and National

Reconciliation Week is NAIDOC Week, a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ culture. This month, we look at the significance and history of NAIDOC Week.

NAIDOC Week is a way of promoting an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Celebrations are held

across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The acronym NAIDOC

stands for the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, the original organisers of the week’s activities.Every year, NAIDOC Week

marks a special time for Australians.Since its earliest days,

the activities for the week of celebration have been designed to allow Australia’s Indigenous people to share the richness of their culture

and heritage with the rest of the community as they continue their ongoing fight for justice and equality. Now, NAIDOC is

celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians from all walks of life.


NAIDOC Week a celebration for all

The institute’s Aboriginal Programs staff Ron Grey (left) and Melissa Meyer (right) were in York Street during Albany’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.


From page 16The week is an opportunity for all citizens

to participate in joint activities and for non-Aboriginal people to support their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.Indigenous Australians throughout

the country come together to celebrate the survival of Aboriginal peoples and the continuation of their culture, and to demonstrate the contribution that Indigenous Australians make to the nation.A growing number of Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander people are playing a significant role in developing Australia's future in a diversity of fields such as music, arts, culture, education, employment and politics.Australia's Indigenous arts, crafts and

lifestyle, for which there is a growing national and international appreciation, are helping to develop a distinct personality for our nation.The strong relationship Aboriginal people

have with their land is reflected in the traditional names of their places and their significance in the people’s history and Dreaming stories.The theme of this year’s NAIDOC Week

is ‘We All Stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate’, which is particularly poignant because it was 30

years ago in October that the sacred site of Uluru, one of Australia’s best-known landmarks, was handed back to the Aboriginal people.Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

people have a long history of bringing issues and concerns to the attention of governments and the public.The Australian Aborigines Progressive

Association was formed in Sydney in 1924 to raise awareness of the struggle, but police harassment forced the group to abandon its work after three years.The Australian Aborigines League and the

Aborigines Progressive Association helped to plan the first day of mourning for Australia Day in 1938, the 150th anniversary of the landing of the first fleet in Sydney Cove.Aborigines Day became a national day

in 1955. The aim was to change negative attitudes towards Aboriginal people, not only by communities, but by the churches, Commonwealth and State Governments and other official bodies.With their support, Aboriginal people

established NADOC, the National Aborigines' Day Observance Committee, in 1957. The name was changed to NAIDOC in 1991 to include Torres Strait Islander people.It is held in the first full week of July each

year, from Sunday to Sunday, and this year was celebrated from 5 to 12 July.

ARE YOU A LECTURER NEEDING SUPPORT?

Principal Lecturers are here to support you to deliver the best possible training experience for our students. We offer a range of workshop-based and ‘at-your-desk’ support including help with validation, coaching for new staff and audit preparation.

We are also able to set up individual and small-group sessions on any training or assessment-related topic.

Phone Ray on 9892 8831 or Ruth on 9892 8759

Week of celebration


Why keep chickens?Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) are one of the most endearing, useful and rewarding creatures you can share your home and garden with. They are the ultimate permaculture animal;

recycling food scraps, controlling weeds and pests – all while making the best nitrogen-rich manure available. By conservative estimate, Australians

currently waste more than 20 per cent of food purchased every year! This equates to approximately four million tonnes of food annually.When rotting in landfill, this waste food

produces the greenhouse gas methane, which is up to 25 times more dangerous than carbon dioxide (source: Foodwise).Keeping chickens is a proven way to

reduce the amount of food you waste in your own home. Consider this – the average house spends more than $1000 per year on food that enters landfill. Surely we could find a better use for this?

Of course the other little benefit we should mention is the fact that contented and well-fed chooks produce amazing eggs. These parcels of goodness contain

omega-3 and antioxidants, and are nutrient dense. Yes – fresh eggs from backyard birds are far superior in taste and goodness to commercially bought, factory-farmed varieties. Plus, chooks are engaging and wonderful

animals to have around children. They live in the moment. What basic things do chooks need?Shelter and securityA metal house and perches are best, as wood can harbour mites and other pests.The house needs to have adequate

ventilation in summer, but provide enough protection from rain and draughts. Chooks like to roost on perches at night (in the wild they would have slept in trees.) They also need a cool, private and

accessible nesting box to lay their eggs; one box for every four birds is a good start. An old converted shed or kit house can make the job of building a secure home easier, as providing protection from dogs, hawks, cats and foxes is paramount.Space is a consideration, but chooks are

excellent at reducing the amount of lawn you need to water and mow. It is best to start small with two to three birds.Food and WaterAs you no doubt plan to eat the eggs, it is in your and the chooks’ best interest to provide clean and fresh water. (Tip: adding a capful of apple cider vinegar assists with worming.)Commercial laying pellets, kitchen scraps,

shell grit, greens and insects form the basis of good chook nutrition.


SeedsOF SUSTAINABILITY

With a chook chook here and a...


From page 18If you have a vegetable garden to supplement

their food, even better. Avoid feeding excessive salt and sugar, including too much bread and refined carbohydrates.CompanyChickens have a complex social structure, or pecking order. They crave social interaction so it is highly

recommended that you have at least two birds at any time. They don’t need roosters to be present for egg-laying, but a good rooster will find food for them, alert them to predators and keep the birds from squabbling or fighting. Of course, roosters are not permitted in residential areas so check regulations from your local shire to ensure you are compliant with by-laws. It is also worth noting that as with any animal,

pests and other health issues can present themselves. Thankfully there are many books and thousands of websites with forums that can provide you with help along the way.Please note – this list is not exhaustive, so be

sure to read plenty of literature and ask questions from other owners to help you along the way. So what are you waiting for…?

– Ches Leonard

chook chook there Supporting students

with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Introducing a new resource – How to Transition to Tertiary Study: Helpful Hints for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.This freely available

new resource aims to help students with ASD navigate the new learning environment. It includes useful

information on the learning context, managing studies, identifying and using strengths, communication tips, and managing stress and anxiety. Both students and lecturers

will find this resource helpful.La Trobe also has some

very useful resources on supporting students with ASD in tertiary study.If you would like some

assistance either as a student or staff member with a student with ASD in your class, please contact me.Email wendy.macliver@gsit.

wa.edu.au or phone me on 9892 8741.

Access All Areaswith Wendy Macliver


Tailoring training to specific employers’ needs is one service delivered by Great Southern Institute of Technology’s Skills Development Centre.The centre recently organised

a basic scaffolding course for employees of two local companies with connections to the construction industry.Participating students were enrolled

in the short course Licence to Erect, Alter and Dismantle Scaffolding Basic Level. This involved planning work, selecting and inspecting plant and equipment, setting up for the task, erecting scaffold and scaffold equipment, and dismantling scaffold and scaffold equipment.The course involved a written

assessment, calculations and a practical assessment, and culminated in the issuing of a Statement of Attainment.The students now have the skills

required to gain a Licence to Perform High Risk Work in Basic Scaffolding from WorkSafe.For more information on

training courses, phone the Skills Development Centre on 9892 7504.

Centre supports construction training

Instructor Vic Josway with Kelan Ford, Paul Boucher and Michael Noakes.

Kelan Ford and Alex Pocock work together to erect scaffold.


Safety First

With Rick Muller

Comparing GSIT 2014 results can help indicate where we are in comparison to the industry average.

We have come a long way since 2011, but as you can see, there’s still room for improvement. We’re working to

establish an OHS compliance program by assisting all staff to analyse, compare and improve what they do.

Measure

GSIT Actual Results Results against Target

2011 2012 2013 Average last 3 years

2014 PSC Target set for 2012/14

Industry Benchmark

Lost time injury and/or disease incident rate

1.83% 1.56% 0.52% 1.30% 0.57%

0 or 10% improvement on the previous 3 years

Education and Training 1.26%

Preschool and School Education

1.77%

Tertiary Education 0.54%

Adult, Community and Other Education

0.23%

WorkSafe has released the industry benchmarks 2011-12 to 2013-14. We can use these

benchmarks to see how

our safety performance compares to the three-year average for our industry.Rates are based on

work-related lost time injuries and diseases of one day or shift lost, or more, in Western Australia over a three-year period.

How we compare for safety

Application forms available at www.gsit.wa.edu.au

or go to L Block reception

Applications close at 10am on Monday 27 July

SCHOLARSHIPS

OPEN NOW!Apply today

SEMESTER 2

www.gsit.wa.edu.au


HR NewsWith Paula Pattinson

Email [email protected]

Do you have an idea for an article in The Gazette?

Positions Advertised• Lecturer Metal Fabrication – successful applicant was Rhys Black• Customer Service Officer (job share) – successful applicants were Liz Fay, Anita Verazzi and Tracey Jones• Internal EOI ASL1 Lecturers – successful applicants were Andrea Gallagher and Mark Crabtree• Internal EOI ASL2 Lecturers – successful applicants were Karen Robinson, Sally Lawrie and Rebecca Lovitt• Lecturer Rural Operations – successful applicant was Larry Blight• Manager Human Resources – successful applicant was Belinda Schupp• Lecturer Work Health and Safety – applications close 23 July• Principal Lecturer – Environment and Primary Industries – applications close 3 August• Head of Programs – Trades and Allied Industries – applications close 3 August

New staffA warm welcome is extended to the following new or recommencing staff:• Michelle Dunn, Casual Lecturer Allied Health • Christie Collis, Lecturer Allied Health • Charles McCarthy, Casual Lecturer SDC (Computing)• Rhys Black, Lecturer Metal Fabrication

Staff exiting• David Hansen, Manager Human Resources, ceased 26 June• Lesley Brand, Employment Services Officer, ceased 2 July• Jim Bolger, ASL2 Accounting and Finance, ceased 3 July• Melissa Tickner, Lecturer OSH, ceased 15 July

Thank you all for your hard work and invaluable contribution to the institute over the years, we wish you all the very best for the future.

See photographs from David and Jim’s farewell on page 23


Staff farewell for retiring pairDozens of staff joined Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa and Governing Council Chair Scott Leary at George’s Restaurant for the farewell afternoon tea

of Business Lecturer Jim Bolger and HR Manager David Hansen.Lidia thanked the pair for

their excellent work over the years. Jim served for 32

years and David 16 years.Both regaled the gathering

with stories from their time at the institute before joining their colleagues for afternoon tea.

David Hansen, Lidia Rozlapa and Jim Bolger.

Bob Vigar and Leigh Barsby.

Natalie Hudson and Paula Pattinson.Dawn Koenig, Justin Laing and Marilyn Connell.

Anita Verazzi and Tanielle Sherwood.


For a group of students at the Katanning campus, holding an exhibition of their artwork was the culmination of a semester’s creativity and personal development.The class was for 16- and 17-year-old

students of the Certificates I and II in Visual Arts, who have attended two days a week.For the exhibition last month, the students

displayed their work, which was available to purchase, and invited family and friends to share in their celebration.The exhibition was called ‘Wabi Sabi’,

which is the beauty and appreciation of things imperfect, impermanent and incomplete. It is the beauty of things humble and simple in nature, unrefined and unconventional.

Credit must be given to lecturer Michele Brown and in-class assistant Sally Crossley for the energy and efforts they put into this course.Michele said that over the semester, not

only did the students’ artistic skills develop, but she also saw a huge change in their confidence and self-esteem. Students were extremely happy with their

work and achievements and got a lot of satisfaction out of the program. They have been encouraged to use this

course as a stepping stone into further study at the institute, now that they are familiar with the learning environment and aware of their opportunities.

– Rachael Coole

Simplicity the essence of exhibitionStudents put the finishing touches to their displays of artwork.

More pictures on page 25


This column courtesy of Great Southern Population Health. For more information, phone 9842 7500 (Albany)

or 9821 6287 (Katanning).

Mindful eating is really paying attention to your food, your senses and your body when you’re eating. Mindful eating can help

you enjoy your food more and eat less.Mindfulness is a form

of self-awareness and there is growing evidence that it is good for both mental and physical health! It’s a special way of

paying attention, without judgement, to the things that are going on around you and also inside you. It’s about appreciating

the colours, taste and textures of your food and savouring every mouthful. And it’s about listening

to your body’s hunger signals, eating when you are hungry, enjoying your food and stopping before you are stuffed.From this description,

you might have already guessed that inhaling a sandwich while typing one-handed is not really compatible with mindful eating.Busy lifestyles and

high-pressure work environments mean fewer people are taking lunch breaks, and more and more people are eating ‘al desko’. Try dragging yourself

away from your work or study for lunch. Other than enjoying food more and eating less, some of the other benefits include:• Standing, stretching,

getting your blood flowing and changing posture.

• Getting some fresh air and natural light to help you feel refreshed.

• Avoiding crumbs and spills at your desk.

• Catching up with a friend or colleague .

You might find that taking a lunch break makes you more productive and efficient!Mindful eating tips• Spend a little time

looking at, touching and smelling your food before you eat.

• Put down your fork or food between bites.

• Chew slowly, and well.

• Concentrate on the feel and taste of the food in your mouth.

Introducing mindful eating

Taking a lunch break is healthier than eating ‘al desko’.

the gazette july 2015

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