Gazette The
Monthly Newsletter November 2013 Volume 4, No 9
Michael Dolphin, Laura Leach, Kellee Brennan, Susannah Johnston, Janelle Bylund, Adam Trickett, Christopher Nixon, Shellie Hart, and Julia Smith. Absent were: Tania Tysoe and Murray Cameron.
Ceremony for scholarship winners Eleven Great Southern Institute of Technology students recently received valuable assistance to meet the cost of their study fees with the award of scholarships. At a ceremony in George’s Restaurant at the institute, Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa presented the students with their scholarships. Of these, 10 were Mick Young Scholarships, issued by TAFE Directors
Australia. The Mick Young Scholarship Trust was set up in memory of the late Mick Young, a former Member of Parliament and Federal Cabinet Minister, who sought to enhance opportunities for people who may be disadvantaged but have a motivation and commitment to furthering their education and improving life circumstances. Each of the Mick Young Scholarships was valued at $300.
The other scholarship was the Don McLeish Memorial Scholarship awarded by Albany Halfway House Association. The late Don McLeish was a valued and respected worker at the Albany Halfway House Association for more than 10 years. Don’s own career in mental health support started with a community service course at Great Southern Institute of Technology. Continued on page 2
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Want to read The Gazette in another format? To access this newsletter as a PDF by email or for a printed copy, phone 9892 8888. To download a PDF, click on the icon under the bookshelf at http://documents.gsinstitute.wa.edu.au or visit our website: www.gsinstitute.wa.edu.au and click on the icon on the front page.
Ceremony for scholarship winners From page 1 This scholarship of $600 was for a student studying full-time for the Certificate IV in Mental Health at the institute in 2013. Addressing the gathering, Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa thanked the sponsors for their generosity. “Your support of our students shows your
commitment to rewarding educational effort and helping to remove financial obstacles to student success,� Lidia said. She said the event was one in which the institute took particular pleasure. The scholarship recipients had demonstrated clarity in their career objectives, a positive attitude and a dedication to achieving
their goals, she said. Acknowledging that many were juggling study with full- and part-time work, family and other personal commitments, Lidia wished the recipients well in their studies and in their careers. The students, their family members and friends joined institute staff for morning tea at the end of the ceremony.
Scholarship Winners Mick Young Scholarship (10 at $300 each): Tania Tysoe, Diploma of Beauty Therapy Christopher Nixon, Certificate IV in Bookkeeping Adam Trickett, Certificate III in Design Fundamentals Julia Smith, Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Janelle Bylund, Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Shellie Hart, Certificate IV in Accounting
Kellee Brennan, Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy Murray Cameron, Certificate II in Plumbing and Gas Fitting (PreApprenticeship) Michael Dolphin, Certificate IV in Interactive Digital Media Susannah Johnston, Certificate II in Business. Don McLeish Memorial Scholarship for a student of Certificate IV in Mental Health ($600): Laura Leach.
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‘Solid talking’ motivates mentor Taking the Certificate III in Mentoring (Wirdanyiny) at Great Southern Institute of Technology in 2012 not only opened doors to new opportunities for Albany woman Kathy Stevens, but it also brought personal rewards she had not anticipated. With her new-found skills, a clear passion for mentoring and an impressive work ethic, the amiable fly-in, fly-out worker is helping others to overcome cultural barriers and achieve their potential at work and in the community. New Zealand-born Kathy explained the mentoring course appealed because of her cultural background and her close connection with her Aboriginal family in the north of Western Australia. Since arriving in Albany in early 2010, Kathy attained Certificate III in Aged Care at the institute, and moved into full-time work in an aged care facility in addition to packing shelves until midnight at a local supermarket. She then took up a position on a mine site as a production operator driving Haulpaks, and returned to that job on completion of her full-time mentoring course. She now works eight days at Rio Tinto’s iron ore mine at Brockman before flying back to Albany for six days off. Taking an active role in helping others to assimilate to the mine-site environment and to overcome cultural and language obstacles had been satisfying, Kathy said. “It has been an amazing journey and one that never stops as we learn something new and meet new people every day,” she said. “As for our new starters, some have never been away from home and we just help because we can,” she added. “There’s a group of us who are like a family, and we look after younger and newer employees, wherever they come from,” Kathy explained. “If you had asked me a couple of years ago how the Certificate III in Mentoring helped, I would have said it was something we all do, by listening, lending a hand and
Kathy Stevens has found her niche since gaining the Certificate III in Mentoring (Wirdanyiny) at GSIT. helping wherever we can, but this is not so,” she said. “The Certificate III in Mentoring goes a lot deeper – it breaks down barriers, creates a safety net and teaches us history in order to build for the future. “It gives us the tools and resources to help facilitate change, especially in regards to lore, policies, the law and where we are within ourselves in order to mentor in many arenas and to diverse groups.” Even on her days off back home in Albany, Kathy does not rest on her laurels. She works two days for Southern Aboriginal Corporation, mentoring a group of unemployed people and helping them to become work-ready. Continued on page 7
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From the MD’s Desk It’s great to be settled back and into the swing of things again. A lot has been happening lately, so I will highlight the issues of most importance to you. Reregistration audit My sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the reregistration audit. We do have a plan to progress the noncompliances and the opportunities for improvement, and we have 20 days to produce documentation to the auditors to comply with all their recommendations. Our Principal Lecturer AQTF Ruth McLean held an information session on Monday 18 November, to review the audit findings to the whole institute and she will lead the institute in 2014 to ensure we have a plan to systematically review all study areas for compliance. Ruth will engage staff, the audit team and ASL 1s and 2s in ensuring compliance in delivery across the organisation. Ruth’s PD calendar is extensive and comprehensive, and has been produced after consulting all staff on their training requirements for 2014. Planning Days We held the the institute’s Planning and Consultation
Forum on Tuesday 12 and Wednesday 13 November, for the institute’s executive and managers. These two days assisted us in reviewing the operations of the institute for 2013 and helped with some scenario planning for 2014, including the implications following the introduction of Future Skills WA (the Entitlement Model). Some preliminary modelling has been completed, and this will help us think strategically about our future. No decisions have yet been made on structure, or indeed how the Director Training Services responsibilities will be devolved throughout the organisation. I will call a whole-of-institute meeting when I have completed reviewing all suggestions and recommendations from the Planning and Consultation Forum. I anticipate we will have a small interim realignment of responsibilities prior to end of the year. 2014 Institute Business Plan The institute’s annual Business Plan was written by Chris Jones with submissions from all areas of the organisation. It has been submitted to the Ministerial VET Corporation, and once it is endorsed by Minister Redman, this will be placed
on the new intranet. Denmark Business After Hours The institute hosted the Denmark Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at the Denmark Campus on Wednesday 6 November. The Executive Management Team, Ken Clark and Bev Baxter travelled to the Denmark campus for the event, which presented an opportunity for networking with the Denmark business community. Partnering with us for the night were Denmark businesses The Lake House winery and Temptations Café. Our own Governing Council member Simon Lyas also attended, representing the council and Regional Development Australia. VET FEE-HELP The institute has completed all policy changes necessary for approval as a provider of VET FEE-HELP. We are now registered as a VET FEE-HELP provider for Diploma and Advanced Diplomas, and we are still awaiting Federal approval for five Social Sciences Certificate IVs – Aged Care, Disability, Community Services Work, Youth Work and Education Support. Albany Show We had two stands at the recent show, one showcasing the institute and the other the Skills Development Centre. The institute’s horticulture students brought back numerous awards. Continued on page 5
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From the MD’s Desk From page 4 Robert Reynolds won the Champion Pelargonium title and he also had best exhibit in the specimen section. Some of the students are now being trained to judge at the show. Capital works The construction of the new Health Science building at the Albany campus is progressing on schedule and with the main underground services now relocated, staff should see some major building activity occurring over the next few months. Major service upgrades to the Albany campus are also progressing nicely with tenders for electrical, sewer and gas upgrades to be released in the near future, with intention for work to be completed early to mid-next year. The Albany campus will be undergoing a number of infrastructure remediation projects over the next nine months, focusing on the upgrade of services deemed essential to operational activities. This is required as the campus is approaching 40 years of age and a number of existing services are nearing the end of their expected life cycle. All projects are to be funded via the Department of Training and Workforce Development and include the following: • Mains gas service upgrades • Power supply upgrades • Sewer system upgrades • Asbestos replacement program • Roof and gutter replacement program
5 • Air conditioning system upgrades • Security camera system upgrade • Welding extraction system installation • A new covered walkway • Various minor works projects. The Albany campus also requires the replacement of its existing fire services consisting of fire water mains, hydrants and fire hose reels. This forms part of the new Health Science and Community Services building project. As with all other jobs, is expected to be completed by June 2014, so we have a very busy period ahead of us. Funding will also be available to assist with minor occupational health and safetyrelated projects such as the installation of a new alarm system at the Katanning campus, purchase of a new hydraulic hoist in the auto workshop and replacement of the child care centre fence. The majority of major infrastructure projects are scheduled to start after the Christmas shut-down. New website The new institute website is expected to go live on 16 December 2013. The developers visited the campus on 14 November to train our key personnel in this new system. My sincere thanks to Justin and his team of willing workers and everyone who contributed to this project, we saved many thousands of dollars by doing most of this in-house. Christmas Lunch Finally, I would like to invite you all to our annual Christmas Lunch on Wednesday 11 December at 12 noon at the institute café. Please RSVP to Reception by 4 December. I wish you all the best as you work towards a busy end to the year. Until next month, happy reading, Lidia
Bright sparks – here’s your chance to shine You may have noticed the yellow suggestions box on the intranet – it’s below your favourite pages. If you have any bright ideas for improving our services to our customers or colleagues, click on the box to send an email. Your idea might be about streamlining a process, reporting faults, or saving
resources. Your email will be forwarded to the appropriate section for the necessary research and consideration. Not all suggestions will be appropriate for action, but you will receive acknowledgement and you will be advised if your idea is adopted.
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Kadadjiny Noongar Moort
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment students Rick Inman, Jason Miniter, Eliza Woods and Melissa Meyer will soon be delivering classes to others.
Studying to cross the classroom Many people who enrol in training do so to increase their chances of gaining employment. But some who are already employed study for greater job satisfaction and to boost their chances of promotion. For a group of Aboriginal people studying Certificate IV in Training and Assessment at Great Southern Institute of Technology, this qualification will take them to the other side of the classroom, delivering courses to people within their own organisations. Eliza Woods and Rick Inman, who work on the domestic violence program at Southern Aboriginal Corporation, and Great Southern Institute of Technology Aboriginal Programs Assistant Melissa Meyer will use their new skills to expand opportunities within their existing positions. For Jason Miniter, who has worked as a Noongar language lecturer for the institute in the past, the qualification will enable him to broaden his teaching horizons.
Aboriginal Programs Manager Shirley Hansen said training for existing workers enabled them to undertake more roles in the workplace, bringing personal fulfilment and increasing prospects for advancement. Shirley explained that literacy support was available to reduce stress on the students and ensure timely completion of the course. Working in the institute’s Aboriginal Programs division with Shirley allows Melissa to use her organisational skills, which she is honing through taking the course. Melissa said this was a valuable qualification. “I’m hoping to deliver some of my office administration skills to small indigenous groups in the future,” Melissa said. Eliza, who has previously studied at Curtin University, explained she and Rick delivered their own workshops at SAC, and the training had increased their confidence. Continued on page 7
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‘Solid talking’ motivates mentor through to the whole class,” she said. From page 3 Kathy, a widowed mother of two in their late In addition to mentoring skills and cultural teens, uses a practical, down-to-earth and protocols, she had learnt about legal firm approach to motivate the group, which boundaries, she said. “It’s not just an Aboriginal she said would not have program, it’s for anyone, it been possible without doesn’t matter which race the understanding, or creed,” Kathy said. empathy and passion she had gained from “It applies across the world, it fosters respect the mentoring program. of all people and their Clearly happy at beliefs,” she added. finding her niche, Kathy Kathy plans to expand advocates the institute’s her skills with a training delivery of Certificate III and assessment course in in Mentoring. [The course] “I would recommend it a year or two. But for now, she is for anyone, especially fosters respect happily ensconced in a for those who work of all people job she enjoys and gets with culturally diverse and their beliefs the greatest thrill seeing groups,” she said. people blossom and “We had a brilliant grow as the result of her class and the lecturers, mentoring and advocacy Paula Foenander and activities. Simon London, were a “I enjoy ‘solid talking together’, which is great team,” Kathy said. “They enhanced each other’s work and what the Certificate III in Mentoring is all had a passion for mentoring which shone about,” she said.
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Crossing the classroom From page 6 “It has given me the skills to develop projects and deliver to a group of Aboriginal men and women in a culturally appropriate way,” Eliza said. “We’ve learnt time management and other new skills such as engaging the audience using resources and adapting training to the group you’re addressing,” she added. “The students in this group are from different backgrounds and have different levels of education, but we all support each other.” For Rick Inman, having a qualification to back up his wide work experience was a motivator for taking the course.
“It’s helped me with planning and time management, and I’ve had excellent support,” Rick said. “I’m looking forward to the opportunities it brings and I’m already using the skills in my job,” he said. Jason, who has taken a cultural studies course at Curtin University, advocates the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment to Noongar people and community leaders. “We need more people doing these courses for effective leadership in the country,” Jason said. “I’ve enjoyed the course itself, I love being challenged and stimulated with new learning,” he said. “I would recommend this course to anyone showing leadership, to develop their skills.”
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Exhibition shows its dark side The idea of drowning is alarming and confronting, jarring the imagination into a desperate, lung-bursting struggle for survival. So finding inspiration in drowning and death, and using these as the underlying theme for her PhD thesis have naturally given a challenging impact to the work of artist and Great Southern Institute of Technology Visual Arts Lecturer Michelle Frantom. During seven years of study towards her PhD in Art and Philosophy at Curtin University, Michelle has produced 30 pieces, which are now included in a graduates’ art exhibition at the university. Michelle attended the opening of the exhibition, titled Her Beauty and Her Terror, on 14 November. It is open to the public until 8 December, when Michelle will travel to the gallery again for an artist talk. She explained she had been inspired by psychologist Carl Jung and his theory of spiritual psychology, and she had been affected by deaths at The Gap, a spectacular but rugged section of Albany’s coastline. In the exhibition brochure, Michelle explained The Gap symbolised a physical void which linked with spiritual psychology. She said the work addressed three fundamental themes that
Visual Arts Lecturer Michelle Frantom is exhibiting her artwork at Curtin University. reflected three different ways of responding to the void: chasm – looking into the void; drowning – being in the void; and void – transcending the void. The 30 pieces in varying sizes comprise smaller studies or studio research works, which inform the main three pieces each of 2.4 metres square, the centre of the trio featuring an animation based around a cube. Michelle collaborated with other GSIT people to produce this animated piece. Design Media Lecturer Paul Kelly and student Kingsley Taylor had animated the cube under Michelle’s artistic direction, and IT lecturer and musician Robin Thomson had produced original music to accompany it. Michelle said she was happy with the result.
“It worked,” Michelle said. “The images are relevant to everyone and people react because they have a fundamental truth to tell,” she added. “It’s unsettling and there are dark themes, but the animation is uplifting. “And it’s confronting because people want to be moved.” With her PhD now completed, Michelle is not one to sit back and relax. She will continue to deliver art in the prison sector for Curtin University, and she hopes to have papers from her thesis published, study Indigenous culture for the Graduate Diploma of Education, and train in digital art. Michelle’s exhibition runs in the John Curtin Gallery until 8 December. More photographs on the next page
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The centre of the three 2.4m square images features an animation.
The Philosopher’s Stone, 2011 digital collage from original work.
Welcome to the Edge, 2012 digital collage from original artwork.
Left: Void 2, 2012 digital collage from original artwork. Right: Chasm 3, digital collage from original artwork.
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Keeping abreast of the latest developments and best practice in industry is a primary aim of Great Southern Institute of Technology lecturers and program coordinators. Students enrolling in courses can be confident they are receiving up-todate training to industry standards, and employers can expect a level of competence from those trained on our campuses. All lecturers are encouraged to participate in industry consultation and attend seminars and conferences, and portfolio budgets allow for professional and career development opportunities. The Gazette’s series of articles featuring staff committed to providing cutting-edge training continues this month with the focus on Allied Health Lecturer Lynne Scrimgeour, who used her staff award prize money to fund a professional development course in Perth.
Excellence award funds PD Having a dedication to their own profession and for teaching it to others brings multiple everyday rewards for committed lecturers at Great Southern Institute of Technology. For Allied Health Assistance Lecturer Lynne Scrimgeour, the demonstration of this commitment brought another reward – the Innovation in Teaching prize in the institute’s annual staff awards for excellence in 2012. Each of the winners in the teaching and non-teaching categories of the annual staff awards receive a $2000 purse to be spent on professional development of their own choice. For Lynne, a major attraction was an Advanced Clinical Supervision Skills Training course presented by Curtin University and training company Stara which she described as a high-quality event.
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance students Carolyn Duncan, Allan Dressler, Sheridan Weinert (on bed), receive instruction from Lecturer Lynne Scrimgeour (second left) at the Albany Health Trade Training Centre.
Lynne, a speech pathologist, explained she had responded to a Curtin University invitation which
had been sent to people working in health and health education. Continued on page 11
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Excellence award funds PD From page 10 The multidisciplinary format of the course had appealed to Lynne, who said she had enjoyed the dynamics of having nurses, community and mental health professionals, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, radiologists and general practitioners in one place. “The PD had a wider interpretation; it not only addressed clinical supervision of students, but also related to working with colleagues,” she said. Lynne explained the three main aspects of supervision were accountability and management; teaching and professional development; and support through a culture of quality supervision leading to wellbeing and growth in a health or
educational organisation. A speech pathologist for 25 years, Lynne has experience in regional and rural WA, in disability services, schools, hospitals and community health settings. She came to the institute in 2009 and to maintain her vocational currency and her accreditation, Lynne took three months of leave at the beginning of the year to work full-time in industry. “It gave me a unique opportunity to see how the role of the allied health assistant has changed in various contexts,” Lynne said. She also works two days a week as a speech pathologist with the WA Country Health Service. Lynne advocates the allied health assistance
course for the wide scope of opportunities. While some people choose to work with physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists, others provide support services to dietitians, podiatrists, social workers and audiologists. “Organisations can employ an allied health assistant to support delivery of services to clients across the lifespan – from paediatrics, to adult rehabilitation and to aged care,” Lynne said. As for training others, she is passionate about the quality of information passed on to students. “It is critical that the training system continues to employ people who are what they teach,” Lynne said. “Lecturers should have the background, the stories and the experience to bring an authenticity to teaching,” she said.
Skills shed now open for business
After delays to the construction during Albany’s wet winter, the Skills Development Centre’s new shed is being used for course delivery. Industrial skills lecturer Jim Henderson (centre) is pictured with Chainsaw Operator students Colin Hobbs and Paul Hepworth.
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Staff farewell long-serving director After 18 years at the Albany campus of Great Southern Institute of Technology, Sue Bennett-Ng has retired from her position of Director Training Services. Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa presented Sue with a certificate of appreciation and recognition for her 18 years of service. Lidia detailed Sue’s time at the institute, which started in 1995 when she took up the position of Manager Training Delivery. Terri Harwood and Ray Tuckey join Two years later, she moved into the Sue for the morning tea. post of Manager Strategic Planning, a Level 8 position with responsibility for training delivery and academic support. Sue’s title changed to Manager Strategic and Academic Services in 1999. Then in 2003, she became Director Performance and Review. She held that position until the institute restructure in 2010, when she became Director Training Services. Lidia said Sue had excellent skills and had provided sound academic leadership to the portfolio managers and staff of the Library Resource Centre. Sue is now looking forward to Library staff Barbara Watson and spending Christmas in the UK and Stephanie Lindesay say goodbye. enjoying her well-earned retirement.
Terri Michael and LeeAnne Smith share a joke with Sue.
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Colourful hive at Busy Bees Bazaar
Jane Frantom (in-class assistant), Wendy Johnson, Alison Pearce, Simone Gunther, Clothing Production Lecturer Robyn Wills, Jessica Lynch (front), Sandra Andrews and Pearl Hammond (in-class assistant) prepare for the Christmas sale. Visitors buzzed in from inside and outside the institute for the Busy Bee Creations group’s Christmas bazaar. The café foyer was a hive of activity as customers took the opportunity to stock up on Christmas gifts from the dozens of lines produced by the students under the guidance of Clothing Production Lecturer Robyn Wills. The tables were stacked with gifts in a colourful and inspiring selection of items starting at a few dollars. A sum of $1795 was collected, and orders placed which will take the total to more than $2000. Since early 2012, the students, all with disability, have been sewing numerous useful and decorative items as part of their class.
They operate the program like a business, closely controlling production costs and calculating profits, then marketing and selling the items at the institute, at community market stalls and through students’ Facebook pages. For the past few weeks, they had been building up stocks of Christmas items for the sale, which were quickly depleted once the tables were set up. Robyn said the students had embraced the Busy Bee Creations program and achieved a high standard of work. She said the students had learnt many new skills which they could use at home and in the workforce. The Busy Bee Creations program is funded by the Department of Training and Workforce Development.
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Conference a final project for students
At the Project Management Conference in early November were Rick Muller, Glenise Bailey, guest speaker Chris Carmen, Katie Woodhams, Ken Clark and Lecturer Mike Walmsley. For a group of Diploma of Project Management students at Great Southern Institute of Technology, organising a conference marked the culmination of their course. The Project Management Conference was attended by project managers from industry and local business people, allowing the students to showcase and expand on their work and
share their philosophies with people with similar interests. A particular coup for the students was securing the services of a guest speaker of the calibre of Chris Carmen, project manager of the Albany Waterfront development. Chris, who is also Chapter President of the Australian Institute of Project Management and Director
of Benchmark Projects Australasia, addressed the audience and then conducted a question-andanswer session. Following a workshop activity conducted by Project Management Lecturer Michael Walmsley, students Glenise Bailey, Rick Muller, Katie Woodhams and Ken Clark each gave a presentation to demonstrate their work.
Need stationery?
Visit the GSIT bookshop first!
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Great Southern Institute of Technology Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa and Portfolio Manager Justine Bradney with St Joseph’s College Head of Curriculum Jude Stringer and Principal Bradley Hall.
Boost for VET in Schools program High school students training through Great Southern Institute of Technology’s VET in Schools (VETiS) program can get a head start towards employment or further training while they are still at school. The program is well supported by the region’s high schools, which was evident when principals and VETiS coordinators joined GSIT staff recently for an information morning. Addressing the gathering, Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa said the work the institute had done with the schools over the years had helped many young people to take their first steps into training to become skilled workers. “It is these close relationships which underpin the training opportunities for our young people, and I assure you the institute places great value on the mutual support we enjoy,” Lidia said.
“We are proud to offer this service to our young people, giving them meaningful prospects of vocational education and employment opportunities while allowing them to continue their education and gain school qualifications,” she added. Lidia also said it was pleasing to see the Health Trade Training Centre based at North Albany Senior High School now used for course delivery, and the construction of the institute’s own state-of-the-art Health Sciences and Community Services block underway and due for completion in 2014. Finally, Lidia thanked those attending and the portfolio managers for their work to service the demands of school students, and in particular Portfolio Manager Justine Bradney, who managed the VETiS program.
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Safety First With Rick Muller
Who can help in an emergency? Emergency wardens The warden takes control of a building in an emergency or crisis. The warden will have authority during an emergency and everyone in the building should follow their instructions. Wardens play a crucial role during an emergency, when they can be recognised by their red had and orange hivis vest. First aiders The role of the first aiders is to offer assistance and be available to assist as required with injuries. Names and contacts of your first aid officer can be found on the first aid kit or on the alphabetical side of the internal phone list. During emergencies,
designated first aid officers will wear green caps and yellow hi-vis vests. OSH representatives OSH reps are elected by co-workers to represent them in safety and health matters, and they are an effective part of the consultation system. They play an important role in increasing participation and constructive discussion about safety and health. Therefore, if you need any help or guidance with safety and health in your work area, contact your OSH rep. The list on the next page shows all wardens, first aiders and OSH reps. This list is also on the intranet.
Sneakers out in force for good cause Albany Community Hospice benefited to the tune of $111 from the recent Walk to Work Day, when all staff were encouraged to don the sneakers and pound the pavements instead of driving to work. Albany and regional campus staff joined in the event. Not everyone was game to give up the wheels, but even those who didn’t walk gave generously to the hospice fund.
Anita Verazzi and Karine David arrive at the Mount Barker campus on Walk to Work Day.
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Who can help in an emergency? Albany
First aider
Warden
OSH rep
A Block
Jill Grogan Sally Lawrie Jodie Watkins
Liz Bailey Anne Pinchen
Jenni Eatt
B Block
Anne Pinchen Robyn Wills
Jan Auld Alison Sharpe
No rep
C Block
Justine Bradney Jill Buchanan
Syd Wheelwright Mel Bishop
Will Griffiths
D Block upper
Donna White
Bern Mardell
No rep
D Block lower
Mark Crabtree
Lee-Anne Smith
No rep
E and F Blocks
Noeline Robinson Lynne Smith
Vicki Halliday Cheryl Godycki
Noelene Robinson
G and H Blocks
Ken Clark
David Christophers Ken Clark
David Christophers
J and K Blocks
Ken Clark
David Christophers Ken Clark
Mark Crabtree
L Block
Natalie Hudson Jan Auld
Debbie Williams Natalie Hudson Carolyn Heffernan
Jan Auld
M Block
Jenni Eatt Karen Robinson
Jenni Eatt
Jenni Eatt
N Block
Anne Pinchen Warren Sloss
Peter Sudran
Rod Connell
O and P Blocks
Bill Cordon Raiko Paunic
Rod Connell
Mel Bishop
R Block
Cathy Glen Derek Sloman
Rob Schorer Andrew Nicholson Leah Goodrem
Rob Schorer
Demountables
Will Griffiths Jill Buchanan
Jill Buchanan
No rep
Regionals
First aider
Warden
OSH rep
Mount Barker
Karine David Anita Verazzi
Karine David Geoffrey Dwyer
Karine David
Denmark
Sue Dybing
Sue Dybing
Sue Dybing
Katanning
Rachael Coole Mary O’Halloran Shiekiel Ford Melissa Berrigan Crissie Coldwell Gaye Bushell Jason Bloomer Chris Debellis
Rachael Coole Mary O’Halloran Shiekiel Ford Melissa Berrigan Crissie Coldwell
Rachael Coole
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Staff take a stand for promotion
Fine weather brought out the crowds on the Albany Agricultural Show weekend, and staff of the institute were there in force to promote training for 2014. Jan Auld and her Student Support team, and Skills Development Centre staff gave out information on courses and career pathways. The institute’s beauty therapy students were at the stand both days, offering a pampering nail file and polish, and massage students attended on the Friday to give relaxing neck and shoulder massages.
Betty Paunic and Jan Auld.
Diploma of Beauty Therapy student Kelly Laudehr hones her manicure technique on GSIT Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa.
More photographs on the next page
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Above left: Diploma of Remedial Massage student Corey Barber practices his massage on a relaxed customer. Above: Di Franzinelli of the Skills Development Centre. Left: Diploma of Beauty Therapy student Tania Tysoe gives Karen Salisbury a manicure.
Access All Areas with Wendy Macliver
Study can be really exciting – but it can also be really stressful! Assessments, tests, balancing study with work and life… Most students find that when they’re not feeling on top of things, they don’t do as well as they want to or as well as they can. thedesk is here to help you. It’s your toolbox for success and wellbeing while you study. It can help you deal with some of the common issues that get in the way of success – such as stress, procrastination, feeling down, relationship issues or managing worries.
Get help to stress less at the desk What’s in thedesk? • Modules to develop problem-solving and self-management skills • Tools to help with everyday issues • Quizzes about different areas of life, such as relationships, physical health and mental wellbeing • Links to information and support services to help deal with a range of common issues • A Coffee House to share music, art, recipes and more! How do I sign up? It’s easy, and free! Click here to get started www.thedesk.org.au.
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Business and pleasure in Denmark Hosting a Denmark Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours session at the Denmark campus gave Great Southern Institute of Technology’s executive management team an opportunity to network with the town’s business people. Christine Grogan of Great Southern Development Commission, Joint hosts were The Simon Lyas of Regional Development Australia and GSIT Portfolio Manager Trades and Allied Industries Kathy Keay. Lake House winery and Temptations Café, represented by Leanne Rogers and René Proctor, both of whom provided excellent refreshments for the good-sized crowd. Denmark Chamber of Commerce president Jeff Atkinson introduced GSIT Managing Director Lidia GSIT Denmark Campus Assistant Chris Sainty and Beth Taylor of Rozlapa, who detailed the institute’s Denmark Occupational Therapy. offerings at the Denmark campus and introduced the other institute staff. Lidia thanked Denmark Campus Coordinator Sue Dybing and her team of helpers for their work in preparing for the event – and cleaning up afterwards as the Albany-based staff GSIT Horticulture Lecturer Mark Hackleton and Liam Connor. made their way home More photographs on page 21 in the institute bus.
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Top left: GSIT Visual Art Lecturer Michelle Frantom, Andrew Gill of the Denmark Bulletin and GSIT Principal Lecturer Ruth McLean. Above: GSIT Managing Director Lidia Rozlapa addresses the gathering. Left: GSIT Industry Training Consultant Ken Clark and Nigel Levinson of Lions International Club.
Bodies and engines serviced at Pitstop Grant Westthorp of the Men’s Resource Centre recently visited the institute to carry out Pitstop wellness checks on staff. The Pitstop program uses the car analogy to encourage men to have regular tests, though female staff members were also invited to get the once-over. Grant carried out checks on oil pressure (blood pressure), chassis (waist measurement), shock absorbers (mental wellbeing) and fuel additives (diet and alcohol consumption). During the two-hour session in the staff area of the café, a steady stream of staff took advantage of the Pitstop to get valuable feedback on their condition – without tyre-kicking – and advice on living healthier.
Facilities Manager Neil Augustson gets a health check from Grant Westthorp as part of the Pitstop program.
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Great Southern Gazette
Quality document updates
The following Quality Documents have been deleted, added and updated on the Intranet: Deleted AS036 Apprentices and Trainee Administration procedure Now incorporated in policy POAS015 Apprentice/Traineeship Administration HR016 Staff Training Now combined in new policy POCS069 Staff Training HR017 Staff Training Evaluation Now combined in new policy POCS069 Staff Training HR021 Extension of Contracts Procedure is outlined when managers are notified of contract expiry dates by HR HR023 Exit Interview Now combined in new policy POCS070 Termination and Extended Leave HR025 Terminology Now combined in new policy POCS070 Termination and Extended Leave HR034 Training – Registering and Cancelling Bookings Now combined in new policy POCS069 Staff Training HR036 Staff Qualifications procedure Now combined within policy POCS055 Staff Qualifications QFAS0071 Moderation Evidence Sheet Now incorporated in QFAS0100 Training and Assessment Plan Validation Record Sheet QFAS0072 Moderation Meeting Record Now incorporated in QFAS0100 Training and Assessment Plan Validation Record Sheet QFAS0112 Equivalence (Training and Assessment) Out of date and no longer used QFCS0175 OSH Induction Checklist Now incorporated in QFCS0087 Induction Checklist New HR038 Workplace Bullying procedure POCS069 Staff Training policy Combined HR016 Staff Training, HR017 Staff Training Evaluation and HR034 Training-Registering and Cancelling Bookings to create this one policy. QFCS0185 Application for a Temporary Parking Permit Reviewed and Updated AS020 Statement of Attainment Request Included Licensing and First Aid and Skill Set Statement of Attainments to this procedure ASRD017 Reviewing and Improving Assessment Approaches Information Sheet Added relevant DTWD resources, updated AQTF 2010 references ASRD018 Validating Assessment Information Sheet Updated ‘Validation’ meaning to reflect AQTF 2010. This document is the supporting information for QFAS0100
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Quality document updates – page 2 ASRD022 Preparing for Audit Included in TASO section: identifying training requirements, providing contact details of industry partners. In TAPs section: including Elements, Performance criteria, Required Knowledge and Skills etc for each UofC and mapping knowledge questions. Replaced ‘Moderation’ with ‘Validation’ ASRD028 Duty of Care for Minors Information Sheet for Lecturers Substantial review CS001 EFTPOS Transactions Updated Actions and References CS017 Asset Stocktake Minor review CS025 Purchasing Card Disputed Transactions Updated names and references CSRD024 Equal Opportunity Flowchart Updated names FIN001 Banking – Albany Campus Added Principle Accounting Officer procedure and References, updated CMIS to UE FIN002 Debt Recovery Updated debts over $100 (was $75) to be forwarded to the Debt Collector. FIN006 Banking – Regional Campuses Added Principal Accounting Officer procedure and References, updated CMIS to UE HR030 Substantive Position Change - HDA, TSA and Voluntary Regression Procedure expanded HR031 Position Creation/Classification Updated procedure and references HR032 Reclassification – Existing Position Updated procedure and references HR035 Serious Complaints Management Substantial review POAS013 Assessment Policy Removed Credit Transfers and Skills Recognition from this policy as they are not strictly Assessment POCS005 Student Fees Updated position titles and references POCS006 Equal Opportunity Expanded on types of discrimination and updated links POCS013 Uniform Policy Deleted: “staff employed under 12 months must return their uniform” as the policy states “permanent staff and those contracted for 12 months or more” POCS015 Compliance Policy Statement Updated Electronics Transaction Act 2011, removed Industrial Training Act 1979 POCS018 GST – Registered Suppliers Updated value for supplies from non-ABN holders to $75 (was $50), updated references
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Great Southern Gazette
Quality document updates – page 3 POCS021 Above Base Grade (ABG) policy Minor changes only POCS025 Bookshop Regional Policy Updated policy as there is no longer a different process for low and high volume items, updated references POCS039 Financial Reserves Minor changes POCS040 Student Debtors Updated position titles and references POCS047 Workplace Bullying policy Substantial review POCS048 Records Management Removed staff knowing distinction between ephemeral and significant records POCS055 Staff Qualifications Updated TAE info and reimbursement of Diploma TAE and Higher Ed qualifications POCS057 Loyalty Programs Updated references POCS070 Termination and Extended Leave policy Combined HR025 Termination and HR023 Exit Interview to create this policy POCS072 Email Use Policy Updated to reflect Outlook, was CS030 A Guide to Email Use POSP011 AQTF Responsibilities Updated AQTF Standard numbers, two categories removed, category numbers updated QFAS0091 Independent Minor Interview form Substantial review QFAS0100 Training and Assessment Plan Validation Record Sheet Renamed to incorporate the old Moderation forms (was Evaluating Training and Assessment Plans). Added area for Validation Team to sign, section 13-Feedback, section 14-Employability Skills, section 15-Assessment Judgement QFCS0021 Authority to Use Photographs Change of name (was Talent Release) QFCS0097 Staff Qualifications Information Added Staff ID section, changed wording to make relevant to both lecturing and non-lecturing staff, made easier to read QFCS0100 Staff Award Nominations Updated for 2013 QFCS0115 Criminal Record Declaration Terminology updated QFCS0174 Flexible Hours Arrangement-Form A If you come across any Effective period added Quality Document that QFSP0022 Industry Contact/Consultation form contains out-of-date Added Signature for Industry Rep information please advise QFSP0039 AQTF Internal Audit Process Checklist Caro Saunders on 8742. Updated in AQTF Academic Standards
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A good reason for getting shirty
On Loud Shirt Day, GSIT staff were encouraged to turn up for work in their gaudiest garb. As if looking ridiculous were not enough, they happily paid for the privilege – and raised $126.70 for deaf children at the same time. Disability Liaison Officer Wendy Macliver, who coordinated the event, was delighted with the response, which will help to improve the lives of deaf children throughout Australia.
Staff at the Albany campus (above) and Katanning campus (below) came in loud and clear to raise money for deaf children.
Bright sparks – here’s your chance to shine You may have noticed the yellow suggestions box on the intranet – it’s below your favourite pages. If you have any bright ideas for improving our services to our customers or colleagues, click on the box to send an email. Your idea might be about streamlining a process, reporting
faults, or saving resources. Your email will be forwarded to the appropriate section for the necessary research and consideration. Not all suggestions will be appropriate for action, but you will receive acknowledgement and you will be advised if your idea is adopted.
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HR News With Paula Pattinson
Positions Advertised • Aboriginal Programs Assistant Albany (0.5-1.0 FTE) – successful applicant was Melissa Meyer • Aboriginal Programs Assistant Katanning (0.2-0.5 FTE) – successful applicant was Shiekiel Ford • Campus Clerical Officer Katanning (0.5 FTE) – successful applicants were Mary O’Halloran and Shiekiel Ford • Principal Lecturer AQTF and Professional Development – appeal period closes 25 November • Customer Service Officers (job share) – applications closed 19 November Congratulations to those successful in winning positions. New staff A warm welcome is extended to the following new staff: • Lynne Baron, Casual Lecturer Hairdressing • Tracey Jones, Casual Clerical Officer Student Services • Matthew Palfrey, Casual Assistant, Facilities and Services • Eileen Fletcher, Casual Clerical Officer, Finance Staff exiting • Diane Sheehan, Lecturer Visual Arts Mt Barker, ceased on 18 October • Tom Savich, Manager Finance, ceased on 1 November • Stewart Gartland, Lecturer Business and Management, ceased on 6 November • Susan Bennett-Ng, Director Training Services, ceased on 20 November Warm regards and best wishes to those leaving the institute, we wish you every success.
Check out what’s happening at Your Regional TAFE Do you have a idea for an article in The Gazette?
Email marketing@gsinstitute.wa.edu.au
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Let’s get physical Spring is here, providing the perfect opportunity to make the most of the improved weather to get out and get active. There are a number of health benefits associated with being active. Physical benefits include reduced risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, as well as reduced risk of injury through stronger, healthier bones and joints. Benefits also exist for mental health, through increased social interaction and reduced anxiety. There are physical activity guidelines for all ages, and four recommendations exist for adults to achieve better health through physical activity: 1. Think of movement as an opportunity, not an inconvenience 2. Be active every day in as many ways as you can. 3. Put together at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days. 4. If you can, also enjoy some regular, vigorous activity for extra health and fitness1. With increased time outdoors comes
increased exposure to harmful UV rays, even on cloudy days. Skin Cancer Action Week will be held from 17 to 23 November and aims to raise awareness of skin cancer in Australia. To know when to protect yourself, look for the SunSmart UV Alert on the weather page of the daily newspaper, download the SunSmart app for iPhone or Android, or go to the Bureau of Meteorology’s website: www.bom.gov.au/weather/uv. The alert tells you the maximum UV index forecast and the time period during which you need to be SunSmart for that day. Remember to take extra care when the UV index is 3 or above – this this is often between 10am and 3pm. For more information on the physical activity guidelines, search for ‘Department of Health and Ageing Physical Activity Guidelines’ online, and for more information about being safe in the sun see http://www. myuv.com.au. from ‘National Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults’ used by permission of the Australian Government.
1
This column courtesy of Great Southern Population Health. For more information, phone 9842 7500 (Albany) or 9821 6287 (Katanning).
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The GSIT Seeds of Sustainability committee members research, discuss and offer information on ways to minimise our impact on our environment, both as individuals and as a leading community organisation. In line with this ethos, we offer you information on CLO’ey – the ultimate composter turning your food waste into a valuable resource! CLO’ey is a simple system used to compost all your food waste without any odour and with minimal effort. It is designed to look aesthetic, modern and fit perfectly in your kitchen without bulk or intrusion and converts up to 4kg of food
Seeds
OF SUSTAINABILITY
waste in a 24-hour period into nutrient-rich compost. Simply set it up, add your food waste and then use the compost in your garden. Approximately 60 per cent of landfill in Australia is made up of food waste. Letting food rot in landfill is not composting, in fact, the decomposition of food waste produces methane which is 25 times more potent than the carbon pollution emitted from a car exhaust. So if you’re interested check out the website for more information: www. closedloop.com.au. – Sue Dawes
Thank You The BIG 2nd hand book sale resulted in raising the amazing sum of 502.00 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of WA.
BIG BOOK 2ND-HAND
$ALE
A BIG thank you to all you good people who either donated second hand books, purchased them or did both! I will be running this fundraiser again so keep it in mind if you are having a clean out. Please bring your books to the Bookshop anytime.
Vicki Halliday
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Horticulture students Leigh Sheldon, Mark Allen, Robert Reynolds, Tracy Carrington and Wayne Williams (front) brought back a bunch of awards from the Albany Show.
Crop of awards from fine show Great Southern Institute of Technology horticulture students have the greenest of thumbs, judging by the bunch of awards they brought back from the Albany Show. Seven students and their lecturer Leah Goodrem entered numerous sections and brought back 15 first prizes and 17 second prizes. The greatest honour, though, went to student Robert Reynolds, who won the title of Champion Pelargonium, as well as Best Exhibit in the specimen section. Robert, who is studying Certificate III in Horticulture, said the group had initially been reluctant to put
their work on show, but with Leah’s encouragement and guidance, they had become involved and enjoyed the experience. “It really built our confidence to enter the show,” Robert said. “It was a steep learning curve, especially when it came to the categories to enter,” he said. Robert said the show successes had been inspiring for the students, who had learnt a lot during the year. “The course has been brilliant,” Robert said. “The lecturers are fantastic – especially Leah – and the facilities cannot be beaten.”
SUPPORTING
Albany COMMUNITY
Great Southern Institute of Technology Room D28 (D Block) Wednesday 4 December 10am-12.30pm
HURRY BEFORE WE SELL OUT! S HOW MANY LOLLIE ARE IN THE JAR?right
Get it to win the entire jar and
A CAR
SERVICE! Gold coin donation
to enter
All money collected goes to the Hospice! Tax deductible donations also accepted.
Presented by students of the Certificate III in Business (Unit: Promote Innovation In a Team Environment)