THE REVOLUTION
ADELE
WATCH HER LIVE IN PERTH UBER EATS PROMO CODE INSIDE! EXPERIENCE UWA MOVIE CRAZE FOOD FIX
INDEPENDENT ADVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT! The Guild’s friendly team of Student Assist staff offers free, confidential advice and support for any issues you may face, for example if… • You have issues with your student visa or are wondering about your visa options after graduation • You’re struggling with Australian teaching and learning styles • You’ve received a letter about academic misconduct • Uncontrollable circumstances are affecting your academic performance • You’re stressed out and having trouble coping with life and/or uni • You want to request a review of a grade or a UWA decision • You feel you’ve been discriminated against, harassed or treated unfairly • Your bank account/wallet/pantry is empty and you’ve got bills to pay • You’re just not sure where to ask for help!
www.uwastudentguild.com/assist assist@guild.uwa.edu.au 6488 2292
2 LIGHTHOUSE
LIGHTHOUSE
CONTENTS
CAMPUS 4 Contributors 5
Editor’s Note
6
Director’s Message
7
ISS 2017 Committee
8
ISS 2017 Events
9
MCW Welcome Note
EAT 10 Campus Food 12 Perth’s Best Eats
SPORTS
14 Top 5 Perth Cafes 15 Bowling with Daphne
STAGE
HALL LIFE
17 Adele
22 University Hall (Sneha) 23 Thomas More College (Kenta) 24 St. Catherine’s College (Alexandra) 25 St. George’s College (Shane)
FASHION 27 Dolce Vita
FILM 30 Movies in Perth 34 UWA Films
TRAVEL 37 Fun Things to Do in Perth 38 Explore Western Australia
LIGHTHOUSE
3
LIGHTHOUSE dionel arun
editor: deputy editor:
clara yuan keith goh
sub editor: chief designer: contributing designer: photography:
haley harrison dionel arun tiger cho uwa photography club alexandra o’brien
contributors:
chanelle smitt
clara yuan
cynthia voon
daphne oh
darryl loke
jaynesh narro
keith goh
kenta shimizu
li ann yew
nicole claire
sandeep singh
sean farrell matjeraie
shane goh
sneha mishra
tiffany lau
xin yi wee
advertising sales:
madeleine smith
design consultant:
chelsea hayes
elise walker
Lighthouse is a free bi-annual publication produced by The UWA Student Guild in collaboration with The International Students’ Service (ISS) department.
contact:
International Students Service Student Guild, University of Western Australia 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley WA 6009, Australia T: +61 8 6488 2295 E: iss@guild.uwa.edu.au
4 LIGHTHOUSE
EDITOR’S NOTE When I mention the word ‘revolution’, no doubt what comes to mind is the notion of a rebellion. But more than that, it represents the idea of change and Lighthouse’s 2017 edition
REVOLUTION is full of
fire (life) breathers who inspire just that. Let’s face it, we’ve all taken hits in 2016. Whether in the form of light grazes on our elbows or massive asteroids testing our mental aptitudes, everyone’s had a taste of being life’s punching bag. But like J.R.R Tolkien said: “From the ashes a fire will be woken, a light from the shadows shall spring.” We’ll get to see the shadows of 2016 breaking into the light of 2017. Who better to talk about life’s hurdles than our cover girl, Adele, who knows a thing or two about come backs. Every time the world thinks she’s about to tap out, the Brit pop sensation dusts the dirt off her knees and soldiers on. This time singing hello from the ‘real’ other side, Australia. A foodie revolution is taking place at UWA as evidenced in Food on Campus (page 11) which explores the Guild’s evolving cafe scene, that continues to be revamped to suit your taste bud. And if you require something extra, our Top 5 Perth Food
Locations (page 13) would be a good place to head to satisfy for your cravings, as would any of the places detailed in Sweet Tooth (page 15).
This issue focuses on the international student cohert at UWA. From 20 odd hours to Perth (France - page 23) to five easy hours to Perth (Singapore - page 20), you’ll get to hear from many international students from a bevvy of different backgrounds. If you’re new to Perth, fear not, we’ve got some fun things ready to ease you in (page 38) and if you’re game to go the distance, check out our Top 5 Road Trip Picks (page 40) that’ll make your down under experience even better. As an international student, I was consumed with doubts prior to moving to UWA. But someone once told me, “Fearless doesn’t mean the absence of fear. It also doesn’t mean being completely unafraid. Fearless is having the courage to overcome those fears. Fearless is living life in spite of fear,” which is a passage that has long stuck with me and served as the inspiration for REVOLUTION. You took your first courageous step by accepting a position at UWA, and in that one act you became fearless, life became limitless. So if you’re willing to take the chance the view from the other side can be spectacular. Welcome to UWA :)
Dionel Arun Editor
LIGHTHOUSE
5
Hello everyone! It gives me great pleasure to introduce you to Lighthouse, the official voice of UWA's International Students' population. This publication was produced by The International Students' Service (ISS), a Guild department which strives to foster closer relationships between international students, ISS, the Guild and UWA by being proactive and harnessing social media as a communicative platform for interaction and collaboration. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my amazing Marketing team, headed by Dionel Arun, for putting this amazing magazine together and ensuring that content and design included are of the highest quality. In addition, I would like to thank all the international student writers who contributed as without their enthusiasm and experience this magazine would not have been possible. Throughout the year a lot of information pertaining to international students will be posted on social media through our Facebook group, Instagram account, etc. Details on where to join these groups can be found in this magazine or by simply approaching any of the ISS members for guidance. I strongly encourage you to get involved with us, ISS, to learn about the fascinating organisation and what it does for the international student community. It is important to know that you are never alone and wherever your interests lie, we will try our best to support them because we made a commitment to enhance your university experience here in UWA. So have a read, have a think and get amongst it, starting with Lighthouse! Darryl Loke Director International Students Service
ISS@guild.uwa.edu.au
UWA student guild international students service
www.uwastudentguild.com/about/departments/ISS/
6 LIGHTHOUSE
UWA international students
lighthousemagazineblog.wordpress.com
uwaguildiss
2017 ISS EVENTS 2017 will definitely be an exciting one with many interesting events lined up. Apart from the usual International Students Welcome, Rottnest Trip and Migration Seminar, we are also planning new functions aimed at improving the welfare of international students. We seek to provide more opportunities for international students to interact with one another but more importantly have fun!
By Clara Yuan The International Students Welcome will be held twice a year at the start of each semester to welcome new international students to the community. New students can use these sessions to learn more about their Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), visa, and acquire other important information that they might need to settle down. It is a great opportunity for new students to meet other international students, socialise over pizza, and play games.
ROTTNEST ISLAND TRIP
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS WELCOME
Rottnest Island is home to one of the happiest animals on earth - Quokkas! The Rottnest Island trip is definitely one of the highlights and beloved annual ISS event. Every year, over 100 students travel to Rottnest at a special rate, exploring the island by bike and taking many scenic pictures of the breathtaking view. It is definitely an experience not to miss out on!
MARGARET RIVER TRIP
Have you ever wanted to learn about a culture firsthand, without the travel costs? Join us on Cultural Exchange Day, a fresh initiative created to help people get acquainted with other cultures. Meet your paired partner over lunch and learn more about each other's hometowns. This will be an exciting opportunity for you to forge a new friendships with someone from another culture!
CULTURAL EXCHANGE DAY
MINI SPRING FEAST
8 LIGHTHOUSE
Margaret River is a popular location in Western Australia famed for its wineries, honey and chocolates. Come spend a day down south with us to enjoy the amazing scenery and bond over all the delectable food.
Following the success of MCW Spring Feast, Mini Spring Feast is a new event where the other international clubs can sell yummy food from their respective cuisines. Nothing brings people together like food!
Multicultural Week is a very special week in Semester 2 of each year. This year, it is happening from the 2nd of October
to the 6th of October! MCW has a strong focus on promoting multiculturalism and sharing an appreciation of different cultures and values, a notion that is further reflected in the events that we run during the week itself. Each year thousands of people flock to our biggest event, Spring Feast. It is the highlight of Multicultural Week and an incredible night of cultural food, performances and giveaways. This year, it will fall on the 5th of October and will no doubt be the largest student-run event on campus! Spring Feast features hundreds of stalls which are set up on Oak Lawn and Guild Village, and showcase foods from all over the world. They include food stalls, food trucks and stalls by UWA clubs. Spring Feast also showcases live cultural performances and entertainment, including a lion dance! The performances range from Korean dance troupes to Bollywood singer/dance duos. So no matter what your tastes in food or performances are, there is something for everyone! During the year, the Multicultural Week Committee also runs a suite of events in the lead up to MCW to celebrate and promote different cultures. We host Mid-Autumn Feast in Semester 1, we volunteer for charities, and we help out with community events. Mid-Autumn Feast is like a taste of Spring Feast that runs during the day and also featuring food stalls from a variety of different cultures. Our main goal for 2017 is to promote multiculturalism more actively, both within and beyond the UWA community. You can expect to see more from us in 2017 - game show nights, cultural movie nights, and other exciting events! Like us on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/multiculturalweek/ to stay up to date and don't forget to shoot us a message if you would like to join our committee to have a say in the kind of multicultural events you want to see on campus! Tiffany Lau Managing Director Multicultural Week
LIGHTHOUSE
9
Top 5
Campus Food Join CYNTHIA VOON as she explores the best Campus food for your taste buds. 1. Hackett Caf The not-so-newly renovated Hackett Caf is one of my favourite go-to places to sit and chill amongst the Kmart decorated caf design. Offering a wide selection of food from sandwiches to brunch menu options, Hackett's price range is affordable for both students and staff, especially with a 35% Guild membership discount to all coffees and 10% discount to all food. The brunch menu includes the classic eggs on toast, pancakes, and even organic muesli which will satisfy even the most health-conscious among us. Hackett caf is convenient for those staying on college row and great for group meetings and casual conversations if you happen to nab one of the couches along the windows. With its large open space, Hackett's setup allows for communal seating, shared tables and possibly many new friendships! 2. Rocketfuel Rocketfuel which is located at the Guild Refectory is one of the highest traffic 10 LIGHTHOUSE
areas within the University's grounds, as it benefits from the constand flow of students which pass through the Guild Vicinity as they move between libraries, lectures and tutes. Despite the high traffic flow, Rocketfuel's coffee never fails to impress. On top of that, the friendly service crew are predominantly fellow students, which means you might see a friend working there in the near future. Even during peak hours when everyone seems to need a pick-me-up, the staff is always warm and welcoming. Rocketfuel does your regular range of drinks, from espressos to mochas, with prices ranging from $3.80 to $7. Despite being pricier than the counterparts, it is still popular among students as they roast the coffee beans themselves to make the coffee more flavourful and aromatic, which justifies their prices! Apart from the classic cuppa joe, the kiosk serves thick milkshakes and pastries such as muffins and banana bread which make a great snack en route to class. Rocketfuel Coffee is also in partnership
with the rewards program, Rewardle, which allows customers to collect points by purchasing coffee over a period of time and can result in you getting a free cup of coffee (if you buy enough, of course). At the risk of sounding cheap, there is an indescribable thrill gained from receiving free drinks this way! You can collect a free Rewardle card at the counter. Another benefit for this joint is that it gives you the option to purchase coffee through the Hey You! App. Prior to arriving at the counter, place your order via the app and voil, when you arrive coffee is ready (usually with little or no waiting time). This is an enjoyably quick and efficient system for those who have little time between classes. Rocketfuel's definitely a must-visit destination if you are near Guild! 3. Jumplings Food Truck Many food trucks come to Oak Lawn on Tuesday, but Jumplings never fails to make an appearance at the same spot every operating day of university. The
food truck offers a wide variety of Asian
4. Tavern
fusion food, from duck dumplings to
The Tavern, at the back of the Guild Refectory, is one of the most popular places on campus all year round, especially at the beginning and at the end of semester. The Tav (short for Tavern, obviously) is constantly packed with students sneaking in an afternoon beer with their mates after class. It is a licensed area only for those above 18 years of age, serving alcohol ranging from ciders to hard liquor. Beers on tap are priced from $5 to $20, depending on the size ordered, either by middy, pint or jug. Bottled drinks including Corona or Kirin are from $7, ciders are from $6, and spirits like Jack Daniels or Jim Beam are from $9.
chicken dumpling noodle bowls that are easy to eat on the go. Food prices start from $10.50 for a noodle bowl, and if you want more of that meaty goodness, you can always have additional “ jumplings” at $1.50 each. The food truck also serves drinks for the convenience of those who wish to avoid the long queues at other food outlets on campus. Their
Asian
fusion
style
brings
a
myriad of flavours to the noodle bowl. Each serving comes with three huge dumplings and noodles are flavoured with some light sour sauce and topped with sweet chilli. These flavours come together in a fascinating manner, which explains its long queues during the lunch hour. Each serve of jumplings can be relatively heavy as it is full of protein and carb-loaded, so be sure to leave space in your tummy if you are planning on having some!
The food options at The Tav cater very much to students as they are affordable and filling. Daily specials such as sliders and wings are available as snacks or in large platters for bigger groups. Mains include fish and chips, pulled pork burgers, as well as Nasi Goreng. The Tav is a great place for mates to chill and have beer, to celebrate or catch up over
a decently priced meal. Do not forget to bring your passport or WA photo ID to enter! 5. Quobba Gnarning (Reid Caf) The Quobba Gnarning caf is one of the newest additions to the recently renovated Reid Library. The modern looking Quobba Gnarning offers the regular coffee orders, both white and black, as well as sweet treats including clairs, cookies and cinnamon buns. They also sell hot snacks like corn pastries and pies. While you are at it, grab a bottle of coffee-flavoured milk! The caf is exceptionally busy during the morning rush when students and staff alike drop in to grab their morning drinks before class. Those on a budget can grab a quick medium-sized coffee and a small pastry for just $5, making it an attractive option for breakfast. The best thing about this caf is how it is strategically located near the front of campus, where students who commute to school have to pass if they are going further than the Arts building! Guild member discounts are available at this caf. LIGHTHOUSE
11
PERTH
BEST EATS When you think of Perth, many things come to mind including its incredible beaches, idyllic lifestyle, amazing wine, stunning scenery up north (road trip anyone?), but more often than not, food does not cross your mind. SEAN MATJERAIE will attempt to change that with his list of best eats outside of university, all within our poverty-like student budgets of course!
1. NAO RAMEN
your friends to huddle around while devouring
On a cold winter night or chilly autumn day, a big steaming bowl of ramen could creep across one's mind, and if it does (or even if it does not) Nao Ramen is probably as good as it gets. Unlike a gourmet French restaurant which serves portions barely large enough to feed a fly, Nao generously serves their delicious homemade ramen drowned in a flavourful soup that will tempt even the most refined among us to drink it straight from the bowl.
a thick patty, melted cheese and sauce, is
My personal favourite is the plain egg ramen in spicy miso soup served with a side of Takoyaki (fried octopus balls). Do I see a trail of saliva rolling down your chin? Do not worry, I am funnelling mine into a pail just writing this.
3. TAKA JAPANESE CUISINE
your burger. A classic cheeseburger filled with very tasty, though if you're hungry and willing to potentially dislocate your jaw you can get one of their large burgers - but be warned, they probably killed a whole farm of cows to fill it up. For my vegetable-oriented friends, fret not: they also have a lentil burger which I am told is really good. I would not know though ... I'm allergic to vegans... I mean their food.
rn 2. Co s St Jame
Keeping to a Japanese theme, cause why not? Taka is probably the best value for money restaurant in Perth city which means you can get Chicken Katsu, Teriyaki Fish or
2. ALFRED'S KITCHEN
Agedashi Tofu all served with rice and a side
If you have access to a car and are up for a late-night drive, or maybe you are on the way back from Swan Valley and need something to soak up the wine, make sure to head to Alfred's Kitchen for what can only be described as a quintessential Australian roadside burger. Let me assure you that it is worth the 20-minute drive there!
the large portion. You really can't go wrong
Alfred's also puts on a roaring fire for you and
tea in the corner.
12 LIGHTHOUSE
of miso for less than $9 each, and that's for and your wallet will thank you greatly. When it comes to taste, you can't really expect an exquisite meal, but it is legitimately satisfying and I have never walked out of Taka thinking it wasn't worth my money. Oh and don't waste money buying a drink, there is never ending, free flowing Japanese
ro 4. 161 B ds & Nedlan
3. 152 Barrack Street, Perth CBD
& dow a e M d ner ildfor u G , treet
, oadway h Dalkeit
1. 117 Murr ay Street, Perth CB D
:
E O COD 5. PROM ISS EATS -
4. LITTLE WAY What about brunch I hear you say? Don't worry, I've got you covered and this time it's a five-minute walk from uni. For that ultimate 'woke up too late for breakfast and can't wait for lunch feeling' (hashtag alert), Little Way is where I would head to first. Located at the end of Broadway, next to Broadway pizza and only minutes from the business school it has some slurp worthy coffee and great eggs on toast, however I would add bacon 'cause bacon always makes everything better. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is probably a good alternative to The Tav for a few cheeky beverages (beers).
5. UBEREATS Now, let's be real here, we've all had those times where we're hungry and in need of
some good food but way too lazy to leave the comfort of home. Pizza delivery is an option, but we don't want to pay those ridiculous minimum fees and have a driver inevitable get lost, nor are keen we on the fact you rarely get change from a $50 note. Well you know what, UberEATs is your answer. With a wide range of food, quick delivery times and cashless payments, UberEATs has become a convenient and hipster way of getting food delivered right to your door. UberEATs is all about getting food, fresh out of the kitchen and into our bellies in the most efficient way possible. My favourite part is the oh-so-chic paper bags that make all deliveries feel like a luxury. ISS and UberEATs have teamed up to get first time users $10 off their first meal, so put down the slice of bread that's been in the fridge for a week and download the UberEATs app now.
LIGHTHOUSE
13
Coffee, Tea or Me?
NICOLE CLAIRE shares with you her secretly sinful dishes! 1. Felix and Co The first that comes to mind would have to be Felix and Co. As a coffee junkie, they have topped my list for serving one of the best iced, black coffees, which definitely helps to perk me up and start the day (or afternoon, whichever works best). On top of that, their toasties (toasted sandwiches) are one of the best I have ever tasted in Perth. It has a tangy taste that will leave you craving more long after you are done. Situated near school, many of the patrons are from UWA, especially since it is within walking distance. If you have spare time on your hands and do not mind a short walk Felix and Co is definitely a place to check out!
2. Mary Street Bakery For a more breakfast-like selection, I would recommend Mary Street Bakery. It is a quaint caf located in High Gate, Mt Lawley, and serves the best food, hands down. Apart from all the mains they also have a bread and pastry glass bar located right after a flight of steps for those who
are not after something heavy. Their prices range from $13 to $21 for mains, and coffees are averagely priced. The last few times I was there, I tried both the free range boiled eggs with buttered soldiers and tomato relish ($13) and the veggie baked eggs with tomato ancho chilli greens on crispy chickpea yoghurt ($19). They were both cooked very well, the portions were just right and they left me feeling extremely satisfied. In fact, there were instances where I found myself unable to finish my food because of how generous the portions were. I would definitely go again despite the 30-minute bus ride from UWA. That is a testament to how good it is!
is a popular caf that you will be begging to return to almost every week.
3. The Little Matcha Girl
5. Foam Coffee Bar
The third place on my list would have to be The Little Matcha Girl, along Como, another suburb close to the river. According to the staff it was opened by Singaporeans who moved to Perth. All I can say is that it is every matcha lover's heaven. The latte is made from scratch and it has that quintessential Japanese taste to it. The powder that they use is imported from Japan and their cold drinks serve as a good respite from the heat in Perth. Additionally, I love their cakes that are soft and kept fresh in a fridge that is the first thing you see when you walk in. The Little Matcha Girl may be small but it
4. Acai Bowls Acai bowls are all the rage in Australia. At every corner you turn you are bound to find a shop selling it. One of the better ones in Perth that I like to frequent is located in Fremantle (also known as Freo) one lane away from Freo Markets. When I went I ordered the banana-infused Acai bowl which was made from scratch. To see it being made in front of me was definitely a treat and while I am no health junkie this is definitely one of the healthier options that I can see myself eating on a regular basis. With the addition of fruits and nuts, this trumps all other Acai bowls.
Foam Coffee Bar in Leederville is a joint that I go to a lot. Their coffee is topnotch and their food is made with loads of passion. Remember how I said that I (sometimes) wake up for breakfast? Well, this is the place that I patronise half the time with my family. I have tried their three types of mushrooms on bread with a poached egg. As far as poached eggs go there is a certain technique to it and believe me when I say that they aced it. As a matter of fact, not many places are able to do the perfect poached egg but with Foam Coffee Bar they have definitely hit the mark.
“Drinking too much coffee can cause a latte problems.” 1
2 5
3
4 14 LIGHTHOUSE
DAPHNE OH shares and recounts how she continued her passion for ten-pin bowling despite moving to Perth Ten-pin bowling has always been a part of my life, or should I say, it is my life! From the tender age of 10 to just about a year ago my life has revolved around this sport. The sound of bowling balls crashing through pins is music to my ears and I simply cannot remove the track from my playlist. Just two years ago I was training five times a week and representing Singapore in regional tournaments. Competition after competition I bowled my heart out and the sport left me with the greatest childhood memories I could ever ask for. The excitement and adrenaline that bowling brings me every single time I step on the lanes, along with the values and morals it has taught me and the friends it has given me, are the reasons why I have stuck with ten-pin bowling for as long as I can recall. As is it such an important part of my life I could not give it up when I moved to Perth. Though I was not training as much as before, weekly league was the least I could provide myself with at the comfort of the bowling centre. I was then offered the chance to represent Western Australia in the Australian Youth Tournaments, however with a heavy heart I had to turn them down. As an international student studying abroad alone, the amount of support I receive here in Perth, be it financial or otherwise, is nothing compared to what I had back home. It
is tough, nonetheless I get by. Every Thursday night I leave Crawley on the 950 bus en route to Perth Station. After an hour's journey on public transport I arrive at AMF Cannington. When I first settled in Perth, a foreign land, I found comfort in the one place I knew best - the bowling alley. Even though it is not the cheapest of things or the most convenient of journeys I do not have a single complaint. As such, I was over the moon when I found out that UWA sends a ten-pin bowling team to the annual Australian UniGames. Without much hesitation I signed up to be part of the team. For those who have not experienced UniGames it is simply university students competing in their respective sports with a severe hangover. It was nowhere close to what it used to be for me, but in spite of that, it was a fruitful experience. I learnt a few things and I made some cool friends along the way. At the end of the day, ten-pin bowling has given me so much. For the past 10 years it has coloured my journey on earth with many different hues, and for the next 10 years, perhaps even more, I can still see it giving life to my exciting travels on this planet we call home.
LIGHTHOUSE
15
Introducing the perfect destination for your next event.
500 Venue Capacity
B espo ke Catering
Premium Drinks
Prime Lo catio n
Audio Visual Techno lo gy
Free Parking
With boastful Swan River views the Tavern is the ultimate entertainment space, perfect for 21sts, birthdays, quiz nights, karaoke, balls and fundraisers.
*With a set minimum spend
tavern@guild.uwa.edu.au 6488 2318 16 LIGHTHOUSE
bit.ly/TavFunctions
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIVENATION AUSTRALIA
ADELE
Adele's life is strewn with learning experiences. KEITH GOH digs in to find out what it took to transform the British pop sensation from anonymity to all-mighty.
LIGHTHOUSE
17
Why did Adele cross the road? To say 'Hello' from the other side, of course. This February however, global singing sensation Adele crosses oceans to meet her fans in Australia for the first time. Commencing her tour of Australia in Perth, she is set to perform in four other venues: Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne. More than 400,000 tickets have been sold for Adele's Australian shows and concert venues are expecting record-breaking attendance. Fans can look forward to nothing short of a stellar performance by the British superstar who ranked #9 in Forbes' list of highest-paid celebrities (sitting on a comfortable USD80.5 million). Indeed, with her latest album, 25, Adele dishes out a plethora of songs that are to your soul what aspirins are to your headaches, what the LA Times likens to "a conveyor of relatable emotion". Nothing feels better than horrendously belting out 'All I Ask' in the shower after getting back from a Tinder date that ended in blank stares at your front door, an awkward side-hug and a non-committal "See you later". There there, singles - we are all in this together.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Born Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, the singersongwriter is more commonly known by just her first name and that really is a sign that you have made it. Like BeyoncďƒŠ, Cher, or Madonna, she is simply... Adele. But before she became a household name, like many others, she too had a humble beginning. Adele was raised by her mother after her father upped and left when she was at a tender age of only four. Even though he remained in contact with her up till her teenage years, Adele naturally grew close to her mother who always encouraged her to explore her creative side. Having started singing young, she would put on little performances for her mum and her friends. Her love for music carried her further to BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology - a school with many famed alumni including Amy Winehouse and Jessie J. In fact, Jessie J revealed on a daytime talk show that she and Adele used to sing together at lunch. Now that is a dynamic duo! While at school, Adele produced a demo, which she put up on her MySpace page.
18 LIGHTHOUSE
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIVENATION AUSTRALIA
HELLO
‘I would drink two bottles of wine, and I would chain-smoke. Then I’d write the lyrics down and the next morning think, ‘F**k, that’s quite good.”’
HER SKYFALL All this success, of course, does not come without side effects. In a biography, Adele revealed that she struggled with alcohol abuse when she was still adjusting to her newfound fame. She was also using alcohol to coax the honesty out of her to write her songs. "I was completely off my face writing that album ('21'), and a drunk tongue is an honest one. I would drink two bottles of wine, and I would chain-smoke. Then I'd write the lyrics down and the next morning think, 'F**k, that's quite good.'" she said. It was so bad that at one point, she fell off a stool mid-concert and even found herself forgetting the words to her own songs. Thankfully, after becoming a mother, Adele realised that she could not continue with this damaging habit, and she has cut back on her alcohol consumption as well as quit chain-smoking. There have been no reports of her drunkenly falling off a seat mid-performance since. "I've never been healthier," she said glowingly while at an interview on NBC's Today show.
SUCH A TROOPER After her hit single 'Skyfall' in 2012 for the 007 movie of the same name, Adele went on a well-deserved 3-year hiatus. And while she enjoyed herself, probably sipping pia coladas and getting caught in the rain
(or setting fire to it), the rest of the world anguished. To her credit, Adele gave birth to her son, Angelo, that year. She also took the opportunity to rest up from her battle with laryngitis the year before, where she had to cancel numerous concerts. Between motherhood and writing, Adele claimed to have been running on 13 hours of sleep a week at one point of producing the album. In an interview with Vanity Fair, she admitted that there were times where she wished she could escape the responsibilities of being a parent. "I love my son more than anything, but on a daily basis, if I have a minute or two, I wish I could do whatever the f**k I wanted, whenever I want. Every single day I feel like this," said the mother of her now-fouryear-old. The singer also suffered from post-natal depression where she could not stop obsessing about her child, which constantly made her feel inadequate. However, she thanks for her son for making her a more emotional person, "in every single way possible".
GAME ON Thankfully, in 2015, rising from the ashes of past glories, Momma came back with a burning vigour, and faster than you can say "Hello", the album '25' went triple platinum in its first week of sales. Indeed, for a few months, people had to resist the urge to break out into song whenever they offered their salutations... Well, some of us had to. For the disparaging, the numbers speak for itself. The album itself has sold more than 19 million copies worldwide. Additionally, her music video for the album's lead single, 'Hello' broke Vevo's 24-hour record with 27.7 million views and was also one of the fastest videos to reach 100 million views on YouTube.
"I think having been out of the game for so long, I felt that Hello was the perfect word to come back with," shared Adele during an interview in 2015. "My last record was a break-up record and if I had to label this one, I would call it a make up record. I'm making up with myself, making up for lost time, making up for everything I ever did and never did."
IT’S ALL ABOUT ADELE You might think that Adele's love songs are a tune sung one too many times but with each album, she uncovers a new geographical layer of human emotion to explore - or at the very least, a new layer within our cold, unfeeling hearts (Trs chic!). "I think sadness does connect to people but I hope I don't only bring sadness; I'd like to bring joy to people as well, but sometimes, you find joy in sadness," she said. In her previous album, '21', there was this unshakable sensation of unrequited love, but you will find that the songs in '25' are definitely more poignant and nostalgic, like with 'When We Were Young' and 'River Lea'. Adele commented that with this album, she would like the fans to discover their own meanings within the songs and has only "skimmed the surface" of what she wants to share. The rest is for the fans to decipher and discover.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIVENATION AUSTRALIA
This was where record labels first noticed her and after her graduation in 2006, she was approached by XL Recordings. Four months later, she signed a deal and the rest is history. Since then, Adele has gone on to receive 88 awards from 168 nominations, including a Golden Globe Award, an Academy Award, and 10 Grammy Awards, six of which were for her album, '21', where she tied with Beyonc for the most awards won in a single night.
LIGHTHOUSE
19
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIVENATION AUSTRALIA
With 11 tracks on the album (14 on the Deluxe), there is bound to be at least one song that resonates with you. From 'Hello' to 'Why Do You Love Me', the album has a wider range of emotions than Mariah Carey's vocal cords and you would be hard-pressed not to find yourself wallowing along to them in the bathroom, painfully discovering a new side to yourself whilst also admitting that perhaps your singing would be best left performed in the shower, and maybe the occasional karaoke stint. If you have not already listened to the whole album (or if you have only been listening to the singles), definitely keep an ear out for 'All I Ask', which was co-written by the talented Bruno Mars. Another song to pay attention to is 'Remedy'. The frontman of OneRepublic, Ryan Tedder, helped Adele produce the touching song, which is about a different kind of love - parental love, namely, her love for her son. Regardless of whether you are a parent or not, you are sure to find some lines that you can relate to, and maybe find a new respect for your parents. On a somewhat similar note, rumour has it that Adele is expecting a second child. After finishing her concert in Phoenix last November, she announced that she was "going to have another baby". While the meaning is unclear on whether she intends to have another baby, or if she is already carrying, her representatives have "no comment" on the issue. Although all this is hearsay, there is a possibility that this new "pregnancy" might affect her Australian tour. While we are thrilled for her and her family, we are keeping our fingers crossed that at the very least, may she find new ways to lose sleep AFTER she performs here in Australia.
20 LIGHTHOUSE
Members get heaps of extra value, support and opportunities at UWA – and membership is FREE! • GET INVOLVED with over 140 clubs and societies to choose from. • GET ORGANISED with a free student diary, packed with important dates, maps and info. • GET DISCOUNTS on food and drinks on campus. • GET GREAT DEALS at over 90 shops and businesses around WA. • GET AWAY FROM THE LAPTOP and stretch your body with free yoga and pilates sessions. • GET OUT MORE with free or discounted entry to Guild events. • GET SUPPORT with free, confidential advice on academic and welfare issues from the Guild’s professional Student Assist team. • GET YOUR FINANCES SORTED with budgeting tips, interest-free loans and grants. • GET TEXTBOOKS FOR LESS with Texchange and the Guild Secondhand Bookshop. • GET YOUR VOICE HEARD through your elected student reps (or even run for a position yourself).
Like/follow/visit us for giveaways, events and important info! www.uwastudentguild.com fb.com/uwastudentguild @UWAStudentGuild LIGHTHOUSE
21
UNIVERSITY HALL UWA SNEHA MISHRA, NEPAL
Hall Life many more people around the Hall through meals in the dining hall and orientation activities. These first few days of meeting new people were an incredible way to lay the foundations of strong friendships and bonds, which are sure to last a long time.
Life at UniHall offers so much more than just a room - it offers a diverse, vibrant community and a sense of belonging. Prior to relocating from Bunbury to Perth last year, I had never lived away from the comfort and security of my family. I was concerned about having to step away from close high school friendships, making new friends, and entering a whole new community. I was terrified of this new phase! But the community at UniHall could not have been more welcoming. On the very first day, I met several people on my floor and in my building, all from a wide range of different backgrounds, and all there to pursue their own exciting ventures. The days that followed allowed me to interact and form meaningful connections with
22 LIGHTHOUSE
Living at Hall has allowed me to spread my wings and ease into adulthood. There are countless opportunities to socialise and engage in academic, sporting, and cultural activities, while at the same time having my own privacy and independence. With so many people at an arm's length, you can always find someone with mutual hobbies and interests, especially during the hectic exam period! Studying and comparing notes with other residents who are doing the same units is a great way to learn from each other and effectively prepare for the exams. In addition to offering stress-busters and study packs, the Residential Advisors also provide a great deal of emotional support to help alleviate any pre-exam stress and anxiety. The ResLife and ResClub teams put together an exciting calendar full of unique
events such as the River Cruise, Ball and my personal favourite, International Night. With the beautiful parade of nations and remarkable food, decor, and performances, UniHall's International Night showcases our wonderful multicultural community. Other events such as Returner's and Endof-Semester Parties provide a fantastic break from studies and assignments. Perhaps the best thing about living at Hall is its proximity to UWA. Being across the road from university makes attending those 8 AM classes that much more realistic. And there is always the option to walk over between classes for lunch or even a quick nap! Moving away from home and starting university, I was quite apprehensive of what lay ahead. But the feeling of homesickness lasted only for a day. Living at Hall has been one of my most positive, enriching experiences. For anyone who wants to immerse themselves into a lively community, build lots of new friendships, and benefit from additional care and support, it may just be the perfect fit!
ST THOMAS MORE COLLEGE KENTA SHIMIZU, JAPAN
St. Thomas More College, affectionately known as Tommy, has definitely become my home away from home in Australia. The best thing about living in Tommy is the warm and close-knit community. The college staff is friendly and always helpful like Janienne, the receptionist, who always makes us feel at home with her warm welcomes. We even have a Janienne's Day to thank and hug her. As for meals, our dining hall serves
delicious food. It is also convenient that Tommy has a catering system so you can ask for catering if you cannot go to the dining hall during mealtime. The residents in Tommy are generally active and often participate
There are so many events throughout the year and you will be able to befriend most of the residents at Tommy. While there are international students at Tommy like myself, it is predominantly
in inter-college sports. Furthermore, the
filled with local students. In my
college has kayaks that residents can use.
opinion, it is the best college
A great way to bond with friends is to go
to experience an authentic
kayaking on Swan River, which is right in
Australian student life.
front of college.
LIGHTHOUSE
23
Hall Life Moving into St. Catherine's College was
This year, I was able to attend faculty night
a time filled with anticipation for both my
dinners, a night for residents to invite their
parents and myself. As I have never lived
favourite professor over, have a laugh
without having the comfort and support of
with them and get some useful career tips
my family close by before, my 17-year-old
over some delicious food. I also attended
awkward self-was very anxious to move into
a Valedictory Dinner: a night dedicated to
college. Shortly after however, I discovered
bidding farewell to my friends who have
that choosing to live at St. Catherine's
finished their degrees and are now leaving St
College was one of the best decisions I have
Catherine's. Themed 'Return to the Galaxy',
ever made.
many of them dressed in the most atrocious
Three years later, I am still at college and
outfits, particularly with many of the boys
will be doing my fourth and final year here!
wearing dresses - definitely not something
As a third-year resident of St. Catherine's
you want to see. The meal was much
College, I have attended so many amazing
more appetizing with a choice of 2 out of 4
events and developed a network of friends
starters provided, followed by a scrumptious
from around the world that I could not have
main, and desserts. The event ended with
been able to otherwise. Whether through
huge cannons shooting a series of confetti
events, formal hall dinners, or communal
all over the St. Catherine's Courtyard. My
rooms, St. Catherine's College provides
favourite event of all, however, is the annual
so many opportunities for you to feel part
St. Catherine's Ball. Every year, a committee
of a community, like you have a home
plans this amazing event, deciding a theme
away from home.
and a secret location. Themed 'Urban Africa', last year's St. Catherine's students were driven out to an unknown location, only to find themselves in a beautifully decorated garden, completed with fire dancers and even a DIY s'mores station! St. Catherine's College is also the home of Bloom, UWA's innovation hub. Becoming an entrepreneur was never a career pathway that I had ever considered for myself. However living so close to Bloom spurred me to attend a couple of workshops about digital literacy and financial literacy, which inevitably led me to think about my future in a different way. Living at St. Catherine's College has not only encouraged me to gain valuable experiences and skills that have served to be useful across all aspects of my life but also helped me feel like I belong to an incredible community, filled with amazing residents and staff.
24 LIGHTHOUSE
Living at St. George's College is one of the best decisions I have made during the course of my undergraduate degree in Music. As an international student from Singapore, I left home wanting to experience a different culture, to meet new people and to be exposed to different perspectives. St. George's College houses students from Australia, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Singapore and many other countries. This creates a diverse community of students from different backgrounds, living together in what we call a 'Castle'. And it is here that I have found all that I have ever wanted. The college seeks to establish a tight community every year through various college activities and daily interactions like meal times. St. George's College hosts events, like Spring Fair, boat parties, and art exhibitions, that add to the vibrant environment that we live in. From fireside chats to music concerts, these events allow us to bond as a community as well as expose us to different disciplines of study. As a music student, I am given the opportunity to learn and discuss topics that are not within my scope of study, like politics, psychology, and business.
In addition to these exciting events, the college also has a structured academic program that aims to help students better themselves in terms of their academic performance. The college invites qualified tutors to conduct weekly tutorials for each discipline of study. These tutorials are very helpful as we receive constant support from tutors and peers. Other than academic support, the college provides pastoral care to residents through the welltrained Residential Advisors (RA). The RAs organize outings and activities to bond the residents in smaller groups. St. George's College also appoints an international student as an RA to provide support to new international residents, and to help them ease into a new country and environment. Personally, I believe the support system, both academically and emotionally, is a very important aspect of college life, especially for international students. In all, St. George's College goes the extra mile to let their residents know that they care!
LIGHTHOUSE
25
Save the Date!
e fun eds of mor Find hundr us at o on camp things to d entguild.com/events astud www.uw
26 LIGHTHOUSE
dolce vita
A life of heedless pleasure and luxury;
‘
They are young, beautiful and living la dolce vita. Everyone dreams of that golden throne and a life that screams glamour. Giving those casual plaid shirts and chiffon sundresses a twist, our very own JAYNESH NARRO and CHANELLE SMITT bring some Mauritius luxury to campus.
LIGHTHOUSE
27
MODELS JAYNESH NARRO & CHANELLE SMITT ON THEM CUSTOM MADE ENYA MARIENE PHOTOGRAPHY TIGER CHO ASSOCIATION WITH ENYA MARIENE WEDDING GALLERY IN CONJUCTION WITH UWA PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB LOCATION UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
le’boudoir
a private escape;
28 LIGHTHOUSE
mĂŠlange
a picturesque deception;
‘
The laws of celestial mechanics dictate that when two objects collide, there is always damage of collateral nature.
LIGHTHOUSE
29
PHOTO COURTESY OF ETONLINE.COM
Classic movie favourites hit our screens once again! SANDEEP SINGH finds out if these four new old movies can fill the big shoes of their past successes.
"Think of one thing that you've always wanted. See it in your mind's eye and feel it in your heart" ome people might argue that getting Emma Watson to play the role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast is almost poetic because of how perfect she is. These people do not deserve a counter-argument because they are right! Our favourite witch is all grown up now and while she will not
Gabrielle-Suzane Barbot de Villeneuve. The most famous adaptation that most of us will be familiar with is the 1991 animated musical movie by Disney. Critics in the past have described the movie as: "Enchanting, sweepingly romantic, and featuring plenty of wonderful
be playing Hermione anymore, there is little doubt that she is
musical numbers; Beauty and the Beast is one of Disney's
going to nail the role of Belle. She is perfect after all.
most elegant animated offerings."
Beauty and the Beast is the fantastic journey of Belle (Emma
While it may be a tough act to follow, videos of a side-by-
Watson), a bright, beautiful and independent young woman
side comparison between the old animated movie and the
who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her
upcoming release have been appearing on social media. From
fears, she befriends the castle's enchanted staff and learns
what we have seen thus far, director Bill Codon's upcoming
to look beyond the Beast's hideous exterior and realise the
version has been able to hold its own against the original. Yet
kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. This traditional
only time will tell how well the movie will do. Be sure to catch
fairy tale has roots back to 1740, penned by French novelist
it, even if not for the story, then for Emma Watson!
30 LIGHTHOUSE
Strong Women scare Weak Men "Everything my mother warned me about man’s world is true. She even told me you’d try to seduce me and I’d look like the fool." Recreating comic books on the big screen can be a daunting task for many filmmakers. They tend to get caught in the cross hairs of many diehard comic book fans who demand that they stay true to the original story. Yet they also have to answer to the public and appeal to the commercial audience with what they deliver on screen. Raised on the mythical island of Themyscira and trained by Amazonian warriors, a young woman named Diana (Gal Gadot) fulfills a destiny bestowed on her long ago by the Gods when her home and the world at large is threatened. She must hence leave and travel to the outside world for the first time. In doing so, she will take her first step to becoming the hero that is Wonder Woman. While we may have gotten used to seeing the Israeli beauty in the thick of action-packed sequences due to her recurring role as Gisele in the incredibly popular Fast & Furious franchise, watching her bring the comic book character of Wonder Woman to life is going to be no small feat. With early talks naming Sandra Bullock as a strong candidate for the role, Gal Gadot was eventually announced to play the character with Patty Jenkins at the helm as director. We are no strangers to watching Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, having seen her featured in the 2016 release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Warner Bros’ decision to introduce Wonder Woman with her own movie is not uncalled for given their future plans for the franchise. Some would say that the studio’ s decision could be seen as a way to rival the tried and tested Marvel and Disney alliance that has already given us 14 cinematic universe films. With Man of Steel, Batman v Superman, and Suicide Squad all being commercial successes, this Wonder Woman movie is to be the last introductory movie in the series before they introduce the Justice League movie, slated for release in November 2017. With the whole DC lineup coming back, it is going to be exciting to see all of our favourite comic book heroes come to life on screen. PHOTO COURTESY OF ETONLINE.COM
LIGHTHOUSE
31
PHOTO COURTESY OF ETONLINE.COM
No Island is Barren for King
"Kong's a pretty good king. Keeps to himself, mostly, but you don't go into someone's house and start dropping bombs unless you're picking a fight." he story of the legendary King Kong has seen many adaptations over the years, but this production set in the 1970's, directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts and written by John Gatins, Dan Gilroy, and Max Borenstein, seems to be one that has been generating a lot of hype, mainly due to the star-studded ensemble and its fresh director.
and Samuel L. Jackson return to bring their signature brand of action to this exciting new movie about the colossal ape that has been scaring children in various forms of media since 1993. Both Hiddleston and Jackson are no strangers to the science fiction and action genre, but seeing them in something that does not involve futuristic technology and weapons capable of destroying whole planets is a refreshing change.
monsters. There have been rumours
A team of explorers led by former SAS officer, Captain James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston), and under the watchful eyes of government official, Bill Randa (John Goodman), ventures deep into an uncharted island in the Pacific, unaware that they are crossing into the domain of monsters and creatures, as well as the mythical Kong, King of the Island.
While there is no connection to any previous versions of the character, this film is set in the same universe as Legendary Pictures' Godzilla and in the year 1971. This cross breed of action and science-fiction movies like Godzilla and Jurassic Park has proven to be very popular in the past. Audiences around the world seem to enjoy larger-thanlife monsters and an ending where we see mankind triumph over these evil
Legendary Pictures' decision to get a
Avengers
co-stars
32 LIGHTHOUSE
Tom
Hiddleston
of a Godzilla vs. Kong movie slated for release in 2020 and this film is likely going to serve as a way to introduce the character Kong for its upcoming series of movies. It is also likely that the movie will include many Godzilla references, as well provide the planned trajectory of the movies. Given the future plans for the film series, fresh director with only three titles under his belt is a risky one. Peter Jackson's 2005 interpretation, ended up becoming the
fourth-highest-grossing
film
in
Universal Pictures history, is a tough act to follow if you ask me. Kudos to the team of Legendary and Roberts for taking up the challenge; it is going to be interesting to see what they have created.
IT'S MORPHIN TIME!
PHOTO COURTESY OF ETONLINE.COM
If you grew up not watching Power Rangers, life must have been slightly dull as you would not have experienced the power of Morphin Time!
"There's two things you guys need to learn about Dino Gems. One, you can't choose them. They choose you. Two, they go real well with Dino Morphers."
G
o Go Power Rangers! The theme song for the cartoon became an ear worm for most 90's kids who grew up watching it. The appeal is obvious after all, seeing regular high school students who suddenly band together to save the world with their unique superpowers and cool outfits. Finding the Power Coins and turning into a Power Ranger was a dream we all had as kids; we all even had a favourite colour Ranger we dreamt of being. Power Rangers follows five ordinary high school kids who must become something extraordinary when the town of Angel Grove - and the world - is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover that they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so they will have to overcome their real-life issues and band together as the Power Rangers before it is too late.
How they are going to appeal to the current generation of children and adults alike is going to be fascinating to see. For young adults, it is going to be a walk down memory lane, but for the children, it will be a new experience. The current generation's ability to appreciate the film remains to be seen. The casting of the movie is pretty diverse, with veterans like Bryan Cranston who starred in Argo and Breaking Bad, as well as Elizabeth Banks whom we all know from the Hunger Games franchise, starring alongside younger talents like Dacre Montgomery. A fun fact about Dacre Montgomery is that he was actually born right here in Perth. Coincidentally, South African film director Dean Israelite was a graduate of Film and Television from Curtin University in Perth as well. To all you budding actors and directors, coming to Perth may have been a good idea!
LIGHTHOUSE
33
Film by Miguel De Jesus, Kenneth Shihua Foo, Claudia Lam, Darren Neumann, Joshua Wong and Li Ann Yew.
P.S, I HEIST YOU What happens when a ninja, macho and nerd plan to rob a bank together? Join LI ANN YEW as she takes a sneak peek into the plans of UWA's Communication and Media Studies award - winning student film, The Heist. Three thieves. Three plans. One job. The Heist captures the highs and lows of three very different criminals with three very different personalities. One is a stealthy ninja-like rogue; another a stereotypical socially awkward IT guy; and then, there is the all-toofamiliar over-the-top macho man. When everyone has their own idea of what is the best way to break into a warehouse, working together could prove to be a problem. Their disagreements over how to best retrieve the spoils can be captured by this sentiment: "There is no 'I' in heist. Oh, wait. There is." Now for the clichďƒŠ rhetorical question that is always plastered on the posters of films: will they be able to set aside their differences and succeed? The Heist is Pho(n) Films' take on the archetypal crime comedy genre, featuring elements such as physical
34 LIGHTHOUSE
humour, amusing interactions between characters as well as comic relief, provided by the security guard in our film. Inspired by the filming techniques of directors such as Edgar Wright, the film is composed of many quick camera movements, setting the pace for the various action sequences in our film. Unlike the bickering criminals in The Heist, the team behind it is made up of six individuals that rather enjoy each others' company. Conquering long days of filming and surviving solely on Hungry Jacks, G-Fun and the sweet, sweet rhymes of DMX, Pho(n) Films managed to acquire five awards at the annual Media and Communications Screening that was organized by said faculty. These awards included Best Scriptwriting, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, the Guild's Choice Award, and the Industry Award.
Their filming experience, like the theme of the film, taught them about teamwork. Everyone has different skills to offer and a role to play in the production process. Alongside the plethora of technical skills that this project taught them, they were also gifted with the opportunity to work with teammates who are not only highly skilled but with whom they could get along with very well. The crew was very fortunate to have had George Bowen Uy III join them on this venture, as well as helping them secure their second filming location, the warehouse, which was an integral part of them film, seeing as the thieves were meant to break into a warehouse. Together with the support provided by the Arts Digital Learning (ADL) staff, the team managed to produce a film intended for one simple purpose: to make people laugh.
S
M
YO U, M
E&
IS
XA IT VI H ER .
In K Co E an IT upl d H G es hi s O Th St M H era ud iss as p ie us he y, t s Aw in un he U ar W rav cla d e w W A's ls s c in C the om ni om G O ng m tru e H ,E St un th out M FI IL L Y M u d i c be to ED BY en ati tw pl W AR CH LO t F o n ee ay D S, E ilm an n a . Jo LE AA W R IS O , M d M M in N ,D TA IO IS ed an N N EL & SU ia JE FF ARU S. ER N ,K Y E
U S
Sometimes, love is a one-way street. This feeling is strongly encapsulated in the short 3-minute film, Missus, but of course, what is a story without a good twist. Missus opens with a dramatic closeup of a troubled man: he is in couples therapy with his wife and he is revealing all of his worries and concerns. The film then shows his scenes of his frustration, ranging from the simple things like her wasting all the good food at home to how she enjoys destroying his things, like his favourite t-shirt and even his grandma's antique vase! Finally, it is the missus' turn to speak. The therapist turns to her to ask if she has any words to say for herself, but it is revealed that she is, in fact, a cat! Before you get any crazy ideas, no, he is not married to a cat. Upon re-watching, you will notice subtle hints that the film
gives as it leads up to the big reveal. In fact, the final scene was so tedious to shoot, because it involved using an actual cat. Getting the cat to jump off the sofa on cue was an absolute pain because, well, it is a cat. Treat boxes were shaken, furry toys were waved, but the cat remained unmoved. The simple 10-second shot took over an hour to film! 10 points for dedication to the craft and a well-deserved 50 points for persevering through the nightmare that was the cat. Ironically, the film is about the bittersweet sensation of being a cat owner, which the crew experienced firsthand. It tells of how many of us keep cats even though they are not the friendliest creatures in the world. They eat their food and throw up; they poop everywhere but in their litter box; and there are even stories of cats eating their dead owners’ bodies after they die! SO WHY DO WE STILL LOVE THEM?
While the film does not answer that question, it explores that familiar feeling of 'Why?!' The scenes that you see in the film were in fact inspired by one of the crew's personal experiences with the feline star. While some of it was tweaked to match the personification of the cat, the emotions behind it are definitely real. If you are a cat owner, you will definitely relate to the film on at least one level. If you are a dog owner, well, this film will help reaffirm your choice well made. And if you do not belong to a team, then you will at least appreciate its beautiful shots ďƒ la Mr. Wes Anderson. The colours are well thought-out and there are interesting movements in the camera work. If you are scratching your head, wondering what does this all even mean, just know that the film won 'Best Directing' and 'Best Film' in an internal judging. It may not be an Oscar, but hey, it is something!
LIGHTHOUSE
35
Fun Things To Do in Perth Perth is the touted as one the most isolated cities in the world, but that does not mean that its people are isolated too. Apart from the standard checklist of places, XIN YI WEE shows that Perth has so much more to offer in the day and at night.
OUTDOOR CINEMAS The outdoor cinemas in Perth will open during warmer months, commencing in summer till April. Going to an outdoor cinema is an alternative to the usual indoor cinema as it provides an entirely different experience. Bean bags are also available for rent if you pre-book them online. The outdoor cinemas in Perth showcase a wide variety of movie genres from classics and indie films to the latest blockbusters. Here are a couple of them to check out:
MOONLIGHT CINEMA IN SYNERGY PARK, KING'S PARK Moonlight Cinema in Synergy Park, King's Park. Moonlight Cinema screens latest movies, contemporary, and classic films and is open from 1st December 2016 to 2nd April 2017. www.moonlight.com.au/perth/program/
BEN AND JERRY’S OPEN AIR CINEMA The Ben and Jerry's Open Air Cinema opens from 9th March 2017 to 23rd April 2017. Located by the Swan River along Riverside Drive, the cinema screens latest movies and classics. Sundae Sundays (on Sundays) are not to be missed with live entertainment and a free flow Ben and Jerry's ice cream (!!!) before the movie starts. So likewise, grab your blankets, make yourself comfortable and enjoy the experience. It is best to book your tickets early as Sundae Sundays are really popular! openaircinemas.com.au/perth/home
NIGHT MARKETS Night markets in Perth emerge in the warmer months. When the sun goes down and air gets cooler, everyone starts looking for some outdoor activity. With affordable food, live entertainment, and perfect weather, night markets are easily one of the most loved activities in the city. Expect a huge crowd of people and remember to not order too much at a single stall or you will not be able to try out the variety of food available.
TWILIGHT HAWKERS MARKET, FORREST PLACE The Twilight Hawkers Market is Perth's original and biggest night 36 LIGHTHOUSE
Twilight
Hawker's Markets
market. It runs every Friday night at Forrest Place in the city in October to April, from 4.30 PM to 9.30 PM. From Asian to European cuisines, and even desserts, the Twilight Hawkers Market has everything you are looking for and more. Check out their Facebook page or website for vendors and updates!
The Court
twilighthawkersmarket.com/
NIGHT NOODLE MARKETS, ELIZABETH QUAY Keep an eye out for the Night Noodle Markets in Perth, featuring an Asian fare of modern, Korean, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese cuisines. Open daily during Good Food Month, popular restaurants such as Lucky Chan's and Low Key Chow House will be dishing out their best offerings. There will also be pop-up bars, live entertainment, including DJs, lion dances, and lantern installations.
NIGHT LIFE Despite Perth having a bad reputation for being a boring city that shuts down at 5, it still has a thriving night scene with plenty of options, guaranteeing a great night out on weekends. One of our favourite places to patronise is The Court Hotel, located on Beaufort Street. The Court is a Perth best LGBTQI-
friendly venue, with four bars, two dance floors, and even a pizza bar. The bar has a good mix of LGBTQI and heterosexual partygoers and suits both the younger and older crowd. The bar also caters to varied music tastes as you can get down and dirty on the indoor dance floor, dancing along to RnB and Old School hits or get amped up on the outdoor dance floor to electronic music. You are almost assured of a good night out when you head to The Court. The Court is also affordable, with free entry before 10 PM on weekend nights and just a $5 cover after. It is open till 2 AM and you can hop on to other clubs after. We highly recommend that you follow their Facebook page for special events.
Join the ISS organised trip to Rottnest Island held every semester break and enjoy discounted tickets and bike hire fees. The island is a 30-minute ferry ride away from Fremantle. Rottnest Island is blessed with fine beaches, diverse marine life and is perfect for snorkelling or a day out in the sun.
www.facebook.com/thecourthotel/
Crabbing and fruit picking are popular seasonal activities in Perth. The crabbing season runs from November through August. Most people will head to Mandurah to literally scoop up crabs. If you do not mind getting dirty, you can wade into the shallow waters and scoop the crabs up as you go. It is also possible to catch crabs along the Swan River, but it is easier to do so with drop nets as the crabs are deep down on the riverbed. The Mandurah Crab Fest, a vibrant celebration with loads of crabs to eat, will be held on 18 and 19 March.
DAY TRIPS If you intend to feed your wanderlust during semester but can only afford the short weekend break to travel and explore, why not take a day trip to places near the city? Rottnest Island, Swan Valley, John Forrest National Reserve, Bell Rapids, and Point Walter Reserve are just a few places that are within an hour’ s drive from Perth city.
Ben and Jerry's
Swan Valley is 35-minute drive from Perth City. You can purchase quality wine, nuts, and honey produced in the area, as well as visit the Margaret River Chocolate Factory without taking a road trip down south.
SEASONAL PLUCKS AND CATCHES
For those of you who love fruits, fruit picking in the farms around Perth are cheap and fun. The farms usually charge by kilo or by the box. Mandarins and oranges are available for picking all year round, while apples are only available in May and cherries in December. Mangoes and berries are also available for the picking. Strawberries, however, are our favourite to pick. Ti Strawberry Farm in Bullsbrook is 40 minutes away from Perth City. They charge $10 for a box that holds 4-5 kg of strawberries covering the entrance for one, with $2 for each additional person, up to a group of 5.
Open Air
Cinemas Crabbing
in Mandurah
LIGHTHOUSE
37
Explore
ia! l a r t s u A n r Weste
Trips up north or down south may offer varied attractions, but are both spectacular and worthwhile. XIN YI WEE fills us in with the best road trip destinations in Western Australia.
Denmark An hour away from Albany in Denmark you'll find the Elephant Rocks, large elephant-shaped boulders that must be seen to be believed. Another *must* visit site here, the Valley of the Giants, contains the famous giant Tingle Trees which you can walk above via a 40m suspension bridge - what a perspective!
Albany
Esperance From the city centre to the national park is the Esperance Stonehenge, a full-size replica of the original Stonehenge as it stood 2,000 years ago. This incredible construction is an experience like no other as you marvel at the size of it.
Kalbarri The Pink Lake which contrasts beautiful against the blue sky (pictured) is another one of Kalbarri's treasures as is Red Bluff, the local whale watching cliff point.
38 LIGHTHOUSE
5 hours south of Perth is the oldest permanent town in Western Australia, Albany. The Gap and Natural Bridge is the main attraction in the Torndirrup National Park, featuring newly opened pathways and viewing platforms that allow visitors to stand at 40m above surging waves while providing a good view of the natural bridge.
Margaret River Three hours from Perth is the Margaret River region, a diverse destination that possesses a blend of natural caves, forests, beaches, and local produce of wine, beer, chocolate, and culture.
Exmouth Further north Exmouth awaits. With the bluest ocean, Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef and over 500 fish and turtle species Exmouth is a nature lover's wonderland and a picturesque location to go diving or snorkelling.
Kalbarri The seaside town of Kalbarri located 6 to 7 hours north of Perth is famed for its walking tracks including the Loop which will take you straight to Nature’ s Window, a natural arch that frames the gorge and plunges 150m down to the river below.
Esperance 7 hours away from Perth by car. Esperance is endowed with the whitest beaches in Australia, the most popular being Lucky Bay. Located in Cape Le Grand National Park, Lucky Bay is Australia’ s whitest beach and is a sight to behold.
LIGHTHOUSE
39
S E I R E ER S
SUMM
E K O A R
KA
PM
5 M O R F YS A D S E DN
WE
IN THE TAVERN 18+ ID REQUIRED // DRINK RESPONSIBLY