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REGIONAL NEWS
Home > Regional News
NWGIC international quality accreditation
03 Jul 2007
 Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) National Wine and Grape Industry Centre (NWGIC) has been awarded much sought after international quality accreditation. The NWGIC, located at the CSU Wagga Wagga Campus, implemented a quality management system for its research activities in 2006. Following an external review and audit in June 2007, the Centre was awarded accreditation for its implementation of the ISO 9000 Quality Management System. This achievement, driven by Mrs Helen Pan (NWGIC), Mr Chris O'Connell (NSW DPI), Professor Geoff Scollary (CSU), and Mrs Cathy Campbell (NSW DPI), reinforces the NWGIC’s place at the forefront of Australian research facilities. Director of the NWGIC Professor Thomas Henick-Kling says the quality accreditation is a wonderful achievement and shows a commitment to quality. The NWGIC is the home of leading wine industry research activities including the Winegrowing Futures Program.
Media Note: International Organization for Standardisation’s (ISO) purpose is to facilitate international trade by providing a single set of standards that people everywhere would recognize and respect. Contact CSU Media for interviews. Print this story Bless me, Father, for I have tilled
03 Jul 2007
 What does religion have to do with farming – and vice versa? Quite a lot, according to Dr Judith Crockett, lecturer in social sustainability at the Orange Campus of Charles Sturt University. She identified three distinct groups of farming families: the non-religious, the religious – who make occasional trips to church, often for social reasons, and Christian, whose “whole lives are permeated by their Christian beliefs and values”. These families tend to exhibit quite distinct gender and family relationships, have fewer problems with “succession planning” - the transfer of the farm between generations – and, “many are very progressive sustainable managers of land, very involved in Landcare as well as broader community activities,” said Dr Crockett. “That is because they see themselves as caretakers of the land rather than the owners of it.”
Media Note: Dr Judith Crockett interviewed farming families in three rural communities in the Central West of New South Wales as part of her PhD research. She will speak on Religion in rural NSW at the All Saints’ Cathedral Forum on Wednesday 11 July at 12.30 pm and is available for interviews, contact CSU Media. Print this story CSU Dubbo nursing student heads to Japan
03 Jul 2007
Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) affiliation with the Ajisai Nursing College (ANC) in Minokamo in Japan will be further enhanced when Sally Ellis, a Bachelor of Nursing student at CSU Dubbo, visits Kizawa Memorial Hospital and the ANC this month. For ten years now, Japanese students who have completed ANC’s three-year nursing diploma have been able to undertake a conversion degree to a full Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing) at CSU, which includes clinical placements at Dubbo Base and Lourdes Hospital. Ms Ellis says she wants to “develop an insight into transcultural nursing and Asian culture”, and will look at “health care delivery for the older person, and community care”. She has also been invited to observe at an open-heart operation. CSU has committed $2 000 to Ms Ellis’s trip. “It wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for the support of CSU,” she said. Heather Bell, Manager of Campus Services at CSU Dubbo, said, “This is a great example of the University providing support to students to internationalise their degree.”
Media Note: Sally Ellis flies out of Australia on 8 July, and until then is available for interviews, contact CSU Media. For more on the affiliation with the Ajisai Nursing College, see here. Print this story Echinacea recommended for winter colds
03 Jul 2007
 An analysis of 14 existing studies on Echinacea, published last week in the journal Lancet Infectious Diseases, shows that the herbal remedy can cut the risk of catching a cold, and reduce the severity of a cold by up to a day-and-a-half. This comes as no surprise to Dr Philip Kerr, lecturer in Medicinal Chemistry at Charles Sturt University’s Wagga Wagga Campus. “I’m a tincture rather than tablet man myself,” says Dr Kerr. Echinacea supplements are available as tablets, extracts, tincture, tea and even in fresh juice. He adds it should be taken, “At the very first sign of feeling a bit off.” Dr Kerr says to watch for the “tingle on the tongue” as a sign of an effective Echinacea remedy. Echinacea effectiveness can be reduced by “the process by which the plant extract has been prepared, and which variety of the plant has been used,” Dr Kerr said.
Media Note: Some medical agencies do not recommend Echinacea in cases of autoimmune disease, or for extended periods. Dr Philip Kerr is available for interviews, contact CSU Media. Print this story Why health services are "inconsistent"
26 Jun 2007
 A project developing models of health care that work for specific needs of rural and remote communities is nearing completion. Dr Julaine Allan from Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) School of Biomedical Sciences conducted research into why Molong and Canowindra have relatively good health services compared to other towns of a similar size. She says “confusion” over State and Federal government health services, and local communities being excluded from the decision-making process, can contribute to the inconsistency of health services from town to town. “Health services can also develop historically. A service tends to stay put. So, one town will have something that another town doesn’t, just because it has always been there,” said Dr Allan. “Next I want to look at small towns which are seeing increasing numbers of disadvantaged people moving in because of cheaper rental prices. They bring with them a greater need for health services. I want to work out what is the best use of limited resources in a large area.”
Media Note: Dr Julaine Allan is available for interviews, contact CSU Media. Print this story CSU and NSW Ambulance initiative a "first"
26 Jun 2007
 In a collaboration described as a “first”, NSW Ambulance Service will second two positions to the Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic) course. Described by Peter O'Meara, Associate Professor in CSU’s School of Biomedical Sciences, as “fantastic”, the one and two-year positions are being advertised, “Because the course has been growing at such a rate. This will provide more staff up-front for the growing demand. It will also give NSW Ambulance further knowledge of our course, and we will get the opportunity to pick their brains about what is going on in NSW Ambulance. They are always seeking graduates, and an extra 250 jobs on top of the 300 they already recruit annually was just announced in the NSW Budget,” said Professor O’Meara.
Media Note: Peter O'Meara, Associate Professor in CSU’s School of Biomedical Sciences is available for interviews, contact CSU Media Print this story How green are our (summer) pastures
26 Jun 2007
 A Charles Sturt University (CSU) PhD student has won a $15 000 scholarship to help improve the growth and management of summer pastures in high rainfall areas of south western Victoria. Margaret Raeside is evaluating the benefits of a summer-growing variety of tall fescue grass species called ‘Quantum’ for the EverGraze research project undertaken by CSU and the NSW Department of Primary Industries. The project aims to boost profits to wool and livestock producers while reducing groundwater levels and reducing soil salinity. CSU’s Dr Michael Friend is an EverGraze NSW site leader and Ms Raeside’s supervisor. He said the scholarship recognises the importance of Ms Raeside’s work to utilise perennial pastures in grazing systems to improve farm profitability and environmental outcomes. The three year scholarship is from the South Australian-based AW Howard Memorial Trust.
Media Note: For interviews with Ms Raeside and her supervisor Dr Michael Field, contact CSU Media. See more on the AW Howard Award and Margaret Raeside’s project here. Print this story IT, accounting graduates in the red
26 Jun 2007
Media Note: For interviews contact CSU Media. See further comments on Access Economics report here. Print this story A pitch in time
26 Jun 2007
 Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Bachelor of Advertising degree strives to provide real, industry-partnered projects for its students, according to Brett Van Heekeren, lecturer in the School of Communication. “For example, advertising company Campaign Palace recently partnered us in a curriculum based project,” explains Mr Van Heekeren. “They issued us with a brief from one of their clients, then their Creative and Planning Directors flew to CSU Bathurst to hear our Principles of Advertising students pitch campaign executions and recommendations. Campaign Palace brought with them a CSU graduate from the course, Sarah Jacobs, who is now a junior planner there,” said Mr Van Heekeren. Jacinda Agnew is completing her second year of Bachelor of Arts (Communication-Advertising)/Bachelor of Business (Marketing). “The whole process was very rewarding, and it gave us a chance to pitch to people who are so important in the industry.”
Media Note: Brett Van Heekeren is available for interviews, contact CSU Media Print this story Wine and food ? getting it right
26 Jun 2007
 Interested in the skill of wine and food matching? Charles Sturt University (CSU) is collaborating with one of Wagga Wagga’s top restaurants to educate the Riverina public’s tastebuds about wine and food matching skills. Dr Anthony Saliba, a sensory scientist at the National Wine and Grape Industry Centre (NWGIC), located at CSU Wagga Wagga Campus, will pass on his knowledge and understanding of why certain wine and foods complement each other. Dr Saliba will also discuss the key mistakes consumers often make when designing a dinner party menu with table wines to match. Held at The Three Chefs restaurant, the workshop will include a seven course dinner with wines that complement those dishes. Places are limited to 20 and bookings close on Thursday 28 June.
Media Note: Another workshop will run on Tuesday 25 September 2007. Dr Anthony Saliba is available for an interview. Contact CSU Media Print this story Saddled up for international success
26 Jun 2007
Freyer Colvin, a second year Equine Sciences student at Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Wagga Wagga Campus, is also a skilled young horse rider who will soon represent Australia at two elite international equine competitions. Ms Colvin, as a member of the Australian Pony Club’s under 21 team, will compete at the one day Interpacific Rally in the United States on Tuesday 17 July. Freyer will then go on to the Nation’s Cup showjumping competition two weeks later in Washington State. Freyer, who has been riding horses since the age of six, says she is excited about her forthcoming trip, and proud to fly the flag for Australia, CSU, her home town of Launceston, and the state of Tasmania. The 19 year old says the excellent equine facilities located at the CSU Wagga Wagga Campus allows her to achieve her academic goals while at the same time continuing to train and compete at an elite level.
Media Note: For interviews contact CSU Media Print this story Getting ready for the big sting
26 Jun 2007
 Charles Sturt University (CSU) Bluebottles water polo team promise to put some ‘sting’ into the Eastern Conference Challenge competition to be held in Sydney next week. The team comprises seven CSU students from Albury-Wodonga and two from Bathurst. Six of the Bluebottles are top grade players who have represented the Ovens & Murray Association, NSW and Australian Country Teams. The CSU Bluebottles will be competing against teams from Sydney, NSW, Canberra and Newcastle universities. Captain Matt Hogan has spent the last three years playing in England after stints with the Cronulla Sharks and Canberra Dolphins in the Australian National League. "We are going to Sydney to be competitive. We are aiming for a top three finish in Sydney so we can go to the Australian University Games on the Gold Coast in September,” Matt said.
Media Note: Members of the CSU Bluebottles will be available for interviews at 10.30am on Wednesday 27 June in the CSU Student Association building, Thurgoona site, off Elizabeth Mitchell Drive, Thurgoona. The Eastern Conference Challenge will be held in Sydney from Sunday 1 to Wednesday 4 July. The Bluebottles are looking to the Border community for support to get to the University Games. Interested businesses and groups can contact them via email. Print this story Idol odyssey over
26 Jun 2007
 Charles Sturt University (CSU) student Luke Tooze’s Australian Idol odyssey has come to an end. The 21 year old guitarist/singer made the top one-hundred list, but was knocked out of the popular television show at the latest round of auditions in Sydney. Luke, a second year teaching student at CSU’s Wagga Wagga Campus, performed the classic Whitlams song Buy Now, Pay Later, a decision that didn’t pay off when the show’s panel of judges axed his act. Luke admits he was disappointed, but adds he has walked away buoyed by the experience, has made a lot of new friends, and says he would encourage other young Australians with aspirations to make it big on the music scene to give the Australian Idol experience a shot. Luke was selected from hundreds of hopefuls during Australian Idol auditions at CSU’s Joyes Hall in April.
Media Note: For interviews contact CSU Media Print this story Posthumous Bachelor degree awarded at today?s CSU Ontario graduation
22 Jun 2007
Lynn Taitt-Isaac completed her Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing) course at Charles Sturt University (CSU) Ontario at the end of last year and was due to commence a Masters with CSU in July. Sadly, in March, Lynn was killed in an accident. She was 33. Today, at the CSU Ontario graduation, Lynn’s sister Lori Taitt will represent Lynn and wear the gown and mortar-board. Lynn’s family say they are all very proud of her accomplishments and want to celebrate on her behalf. Her mother, Monica Taitt, wants the other students graduating today to see that, even though Lynn has passed away, “life goes on. Lynn worked hard to achieve this. She had a zeal to do things, and she was very motivated - that keeps her spirit alive in us. Lynn talked about CSU a lot because she loved getting up in the morning and going there.”
Media Note: Lynn’s family will be attending the CSU Ontario graduation ceremony at the Burlington Convention Centre on Friday afternoon 22 June. Lynn’s sister Lori will accept the award on Lynn’s behalf. For more information or for interviews, contact Jenni Munday 905 333 4955 Ext.124 or email jmunday@csu.edu.au. Mrs Taitt will speak to the media after the ceremony. Print this story New Head of Bathurst Campus appointed
19 Jun 2007
 Dean of Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Business Faculty Professor John Hicks has been appointed the new Head of the Bathurst Campus. He will commence in the position on Friday 22 June when the current Campus Head, Associate Professor Greg Walker, retires. Professor Hicks has had an extensive academic career and has worked as a senior economist in the private sector. He joined CSU in 1993. His current research interests include the application of macroeconomic policy at regional and national levels – especially in relation to China, the economics of education, the application of economics to business strategy and the economics of terrorism. Professor Hicks paid tribute to a job well done by Professor Walker. “Greg has done an outstanding job of engaging with the Bathurst community. And I want the University and community to continue to work together to achieve even greater outcomes.”
Media Note: Professor John Hicks is available for interviews, contact CSU Media. Print this story A toast to NWGIC success
19 Jun 2007
A decade of innovative Australian wine and grape research will be celebrated at the National Wine and Grape Industry Centre (NWGIC) located on Charles Sturt University (CSU) Wagga Wagga Campus this week. A gala dinner on Wednesday 20 June will mark the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the NWGIC, a collaborative project between CSU, the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and the New South Wales Wine Industry Association. A Wine and Grape Industry symposium, The NWGIC in the future of the Australian Wine Industry, will be held in conjunction with the celebrations on Thursday 21 June. Newly appointed head of the NWGIC Professor Thomas Henick-Kling says the past ten years have been marked by great success for the CSU collaborative project providing innovation and improved income for the Australian wine industry.
Media Note: Formal presentations begin at the CSU Wine Industry Training Centre McKeon Drive at 4.30pm Wednesday 20 June with wine tasting and a formal dinner 7pm at the CSU Convention Centre. The NWGIC symposium starts 9.30am Thursday 21 June. Speakers include Director-General, NSW Department of Primary Industries Mr Barry Buffier. For interviews contact CSU Media Print this story Refocusing on Vet Sciences
19 Jun 2007
 Charles Sturt University (CSU) has enthusiastically welcomed the reformation of the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture (ACDA), which will develop strategies to raise the profile and strengthen student recruitment into agricultural science programs. CSU played a lead role in bringing about the reconvening of the ACDA. CSU Professor Jim Pratley, who was elected as interim Secretary-Treasurer, said the ACDA will increase opportunities for students. “There is a strong common view that there are exciting careers in agriculture and the job market is buoyant”. CSU Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences Head of School John Kent said, “We need Australia's best and brightest coming into agricultural studies to meet the challenges of the future, which includes feeding the rapidly increasing world population, coping with new technology as well as environmental and climate changes”.
Media Note: The Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture (ACDA) will come into effect from Sunday 1 July 2007. The Universities represented are CSU, Adelaide, La Trobe, Melbourne, New England, Queensland, Sydney, Tasmania and Western Australia. For interviews contact CSU Media Print this story CSU Ontario?s second graduation is on song
19 Jun 2007
 CSU Ontario second-ever graduation will take place later this week. Over 250 graduands from the Faculties of Education, Arts, Health Studies, Science and Agriculture are expected to attend the two formal graduation sessions. Lisa Martin is not only graduating from her Bachelor of Primary Education Studies with distinction, but is also a passionate member of the CSU Ontario choir. A classically trained singer, Lisa received the gold medal in performance in her undergraduate studies at the University of Western Ontario, and has a Masters of Music from McGill University in Quebec: “The choir was a great way to unwind on Fridays during our teaching block and it adds another bonding element to the graduation experience.” Lisa adds that she is “thrilled” to have secured a position teaching grade 3-8 vocal with the Waterloo District School Board in Ontario.
Media Note: The choir will perform the Australian and Canadian national anthems, as well as three selections based around the theme of “dreaming”. Media are invited to attend the CSU Ontario graduation at the Burlington Convention Centre on Friday 22 June. For more information or for interviews, contact Jenni Munday 905 333 4955 Ext.124 or email jmunday@csu.edu.au Print this story Albury students get AVID in US
19 Jun 2007
Five Charles Sturt University (CSU) middle school teaching students will travel to the United States this July to learn more about the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) education program. Maree Arnold, Erin McCabe, Melissa Loats, Lauren O'Shea and Sean Walker will participate in the latest professional development work with middle and high school teachers throughout the United States when they attend the AVID Summer Institute in San Diego, California. In addition to the conference, the students will tour local middle schools, work with local high school students and meet other education students from San Diego. CSU middle school education course coordinator Dr Sally Knipe said this was an opportunity for pre-service teachers to acquire professional insights into a highly successful program designed to increase academic performance and entry into university
Media Note: For interviews contact CSU Media. Print this story Designing for Lee Lin Chin
19 Jun 2007
 Innovative and interesting jewellery pieces designed and produced by Charles Sturt University (CSU) students will be showcased at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. Presented by the School of Visual and Performing Arts, the Continuum exhibition reveals the work of current CSU students studying Bachelor of Arts in jewellery. The exhibition will focus on the recent works of third year students who designed and manufactured pieces for Lee Lin Chin, the SBS World News presenter recognised in Australian fashion circles for her distinctive style. Ms Chin will also have the opportunity to select her favourite piece from the collection. The Continuum exhibition, located in the Art Gallery’s Art Education Room, will go on public display from Tuesday 19 June and will be officially opened on Friday 22 June at 6pm.
Media Note: Continuum, an exhibition of the Bachelor of Arts (Jewellery) current student works is in the Art Education Room, Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, running from 19 to 29 June 2007. For interviews contact CSU Media. Print this story
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Two senior academics at Charles Sturt University (CSU) have pointed at the serious shortfall in accounting and information technology graduates and its potential impacts. “There have been fewer students enrolling in university courses in recent years. Local, national and global businesses both small and large are all competing for a declining pool of qualified graduates,” says CSU's senior lecturer in information technology, Dr John Atkinson. He says that includes Border companies who have trouble attracting and keeping computing professionals. “Even the Australian Computer Society is unable to find enough applicants for over 100 scholarships for Australian computing students to undertake work experience in India.” CSU accounting team leader Dianne McGrath says accounting firms, including international firm KPMG and many government and business organisations, were concerned at the lack of new accounting graduates available to fill positions in Albury and Wodonga. “A recent report by Access Economics also states graduates in these professions are in the top five most sought by Australian businesses. CSU is keen to train local people for positions in local firms as it has been shown that they are more likely to stay in Albury-Wodonga.” To address this shortfall, all courses offered by CSU’s School of Business and Information Technology will be offered for mid-year enrolment until 31 July. Contact Sue Petzke at the School on telephone (02) 6051 9874.