June 2009 - MSAND

THE NEXT BEST THING TO SWINE FLU 

Volume V Issue IV The Meddie’s Bible 

Cocktail 

Party 

Carnage 

ND Grad 

reveals 

What 

Life’s like 

as an 

Intern 

Wednesday 10 June, 2009 

Clare 

‘the bogan’ 

exclusive 

interview 

Med school 

look-alikes 

PLUS: 

Page 3 Girl 

Gossip Girl 

News, Views 

and heaps more!

V O L U M E V , 

I S S U E I V 

EDITORIAL TEAM 

Editor 

Mike Frood 

media@msand.org.au 

Associate Editor 

Katy Algie 

Senior Contributors 

Ania Smialkowski, Gossip 

Girl, President Runci, Loose 

Lips Lizzie, Samantha 

Milford, Maxine Garnsey, 

Liz O’Brien 

Proof Editor 

Crissy Norris 

Creative Consultant 

Andrew Dunn 

Contributors 

Alastair Scarr, Simon Smith, 

Chantelle Rouss 

Thanks to Avant for printing 

The sermon on 

page 2 

The editor bangs on 

thinking someone 

actually cares 

Welcome ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, trans- 

and multi-gender readers, 

We’ve made it to our final edition for semester one and we’re all 

still standing. Only just mind you after the riotous night that was 

the Cocktail Party, I’m sure you’d all agree it was a cracker night 

so big ups to Gabi K for making it happen. 

Another reason to be excited is our upcoming exams - ok so the exams suck balls 

but at least it means holidays are on their way and another semester we can notch 

up on the jailhouse wall. For those of you struggling with exams, one of our regular 

anonymous contributors has tipped us off to a Natural Study Guide, check it out in 

the ‘Stuff’ section down the back of the mag. She also kindly pointed out the 

following TRUE facts: 

Memory is state dependent ... ie if you traditionally have a glass of wine with study, have 

one before exams. 

Most people's working memory operates in 7's. So when learning try to remember 7 

symptoms for 7 diseases ... 

We learn better if we are interested. So add interest to diseases being learned - find 

famous people who have had them, workout what the chances are that YOU will develop 

the illness in your lifetime... 

We learn better when relaxed but alert, so study in bed is never good unless 

studying reproduction. 

And on that note I’m back off down to the Notre Damus Mansion to 

check on the bunnies. Enjoy and good luck! 

Staff Member Of The Month 

We here at Notre Damus are somewhat in awe of this issue’s staffer of the 

month, Andy Dunn. His creative wizardy has resulted in our super fresh 

new image that has got us turning heads wherever we go, but we’ve often 

felt he’s almost too good. How could one man have so much creative juice 

coursing through his veins? Suspicious bastards that we are, we began to 

suspect something sinister but try as we may we could never uncover the 

source of his powers. 

That is until this photo came across our desk, answering the riddle. As you 

can see, this paparazzi shot depicts the cunning Mr Dunn drinking the 

aforementioned creative juices from this gingerbearded 

man’s ear. The man remains anonymous 

but we speculate he is a supernatural fountain of 

juices and has provided his ear fluids to creative 

masterminds such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Elvis 

Presley and Hugh Heffner. While it does seem 

somewhat depraved and perverse, all we can say 

is that we are eternally grateful to Mr Gingy 

Beard for allowing Andrew to suckle drunkenly 

at this ear-teat of creativity. Bravo! 

ON THE COVER: Chantelle Rouss being manhandled by 

Fintan Andrews at the 2009 MSAND Cocktail Party

PAGE 3 GIRL 

Keeping it high-brow 

If you’ve got a suitable pic for a 

future page 3 girl please send it 

in to media@msand.org.au and 

launch someone’s modelling 

career. Senders remain 

anonymous 

NEWS IN BRIEFS (or out of 

briefs as the case may be) 

This month’s bunny, Nik ‘Man Meat’ Kovac, is 

breaking with the tradition of providing witty, incisive 

and acerbic social comment on topical issues and 

instead has decided to use his nudity to celebrate 

Fremantle’s history-making election of a Greens 

member to represent Freo in the State Government. 

“As you can see, I’ve had my own reforestation project 

operating around my nipples, which funnily enough 

were denuded by some illegal loggers,” Nik admitted 

shyly. “So I can fully understand the people of Freo’s 

sentiments in getting jacked off with the status quo and 

demanding change. Change is important; I once didn’t 

change my undies for three weeks and they turned 

green too. Phwoar, that’s some trippy shit right there.” 

OOPS! We’ve had a lot of probing in the last 

monthabout last issues page 3 girl. While we 

intended to keep their identity hidden, due to their 

nudity and particularly hairy arse, we had intended 

to let it slip that it was a third year who provided 

the modelling and a 

first year who was 

victim to the goon 

of misfortune. Our 

apologies for the 

suspense, now get 

off our backs you 

dirty little hornbags! 

overheard 

“Never admit you have depression” 

- An unnamed second year PBL tutor showing his sensitive side 

If you’ve overheard something amusing or disturbing send it to media@msand.org.au

Fourth year is worth the wait! 

By Simon 

Smith (IV) 

opinion 

Fourth year is worth the wait. I remember Alan Wright stating 

the answer to the question of how much we need to remember 

of all this and he replied ‘All of it!!’ Well those words are ringing 

in my ears like a whining spouse! I am currently on my ED rotation now and it’s like all your PBLs in one day, for four 

weeks. I constantly think back to that Brown dude in PBL as my patients BP heads south, Bob the banana guy whenever I 

see pneumonia and the Timorese old lady with TB when I see haemoptysis! I am amazed at how much we have learned, 

my ability to spew it out when pushed and just how much we don’t know. It feels like a real sense of achievement to 

‘work’ in ED, take histories and formulate a plan. So cool just bouncing ideas off consultants who all seem to find the time 

to listen to your blab, and wrap up your thoughts in three words. So academic listening to registrars who are in the 

throws of study themselves, and looking ahead to the level they are at. And lastly bumbling along with the new interns 

who you both envy and pity, knowing you will be in the hot seat yourself oh so soon. It’s so much of a shock when you 

boldly state your patient requires analgesia, antibiotics and fluid and the registrar agrees, looking over their shoulder as 

they rush off reminding you to get all the forms signed off once your done. Your left staring into space, feeling your 

world cave in as you realise you don’t even know how to chart paracetamol. And charting fluids, my god you hit the 

floor! Actually most of us in third year bugged the interns to no end to let us do all their paperwork and were reasonably 

prepared for this year. I really think that is essential. Get it sorted in year three and then put it into practice in year four. 

In essence it’s really important to hang around the wards and do as much as you can. Plaster, suture, cannulate, 

venepuncture catheterise, PR/PV, swabs, bloods, put beds up and down and wheel them around, inspect eyes ears and 

noses, gown up, put in drains, find all your own stuff all the time, clean up your mess, use the PAX, interpret all 

modalities of imaging to anyone etc etc etc. It is so cool when your fleeting knowledge of medicine is coupled with your 

willingness to hook in and work. Diagnosing appendicitis will win minor points in comparison to making a child 

comfortable, a cup of tea for mum, doing all your investigations and filling out all the paperwork correctly, cleaning up 

and then presenting, with all your shit in one sock. It seems like we at Notre Dame have a good reputation as thinking 

junior doctors with the ability to work. Our first sets of interns are still blazing the way, cementing for all of us who 

boldly follow, some very big shoes to fill. So all the best to everyone in all four years for a safe and productive second half 

to 2009. Remember, all skills are learned by repetition. You supply the repetition! 

NEVER AGAIN! NO MORE DEATHS IN CUSTODY! PUBLIC PROTEST 

WA Coroner Alistair Hope's findings into the death in custody of respected Warburton Elder who died of 

heatstroke in horrific circumstances after being transported 380km in the back of a van in 42 degree heat with a pie, 

less than 600ml of water and no working air-conditioning will be made public on 12 June 2009. Check out the West 

Australian’s report on this tragedy at www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuId=146&ContentID=141904 

WHEN: Saturday 20th June 2009 

WHERE: Forrest Chase, Perth 

TIME: 12 Noon - 2pm 

SPEAKERS: ‘To be announced’ 

"The justice system in WA is Broken. It needs to be fixed." 

Join the public rally to protest Mr. Ward's death, and; 

· Demand the State Government guarantee that people will be safe in custody, 

· Take immediate action to reduce Indigenous imprisonment rates in WA which are the highest of any developed 

country and 

· Do something real and substantial NOW to tackle racism in the WA Justice System. 

Contacts: Marc Newhouse 0415-074-602 or Craig Collins on 0428-810-445 / 9444-1930 

Email: dicwc@iinet.net.au 

AUTHORISED BY THE DEATHS IN CUSTODY WATCH COMMITTEE WA INC P. O Box 8196 Perth Business 

Centre WA 6849

News and stuff 

Knowledge Is Power


Royal flying doctors info night 

Thursday May 28 th saw the first visit of Notre Dame BMP/MRBS students to the brand new $4.5 million Royal 

Flying Doctor Service base at Jandakot Airport. 

As part of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine’s student support program, ACRRM 

provided full funding for the event which included a bus from Notre Dame to and from the RFDS base, food 

and (of course) plenty of beer and wine. 

Perhaps the highlight of the visit was the opportunity to meet the RFDS Medical Director, Dr Stephen 

Langford. Dr Langford has been with the RFDS since the mid 1980s and was the first ever full time Doctor 

with the service. In many ways, Dr Langford is the Western Australia RFDS. 

The major draw card for visiting students (apart from the food and grog – a close second) was practical 

sessions held by four RFDS Doctors on various elements of the doctors workload. Topics covered included: 

Transport of critically ill patients, demonstrated in the Pilatus PC 12 ICU aircraft simulator; 

Demonstration of all the medical equipment carried during RFDS operations; 

A tour through the active RFDS Operations Room where all medical situations 

and aircraft are managed; 

A question and answer style presentation on the General Practice elements of 

RFDS work, and, 

A look at all the airplanes (who would have thought you could put an entire 

ICU in an aluminium tube, 8 kilometres high, travelling at 500km/h?!) 

To those that missed out – there will be next year (we ensured this by leaving 

plenty of beer behind at the base). The important point to take home from the 

visit, however, is that the RFDS service is a 100% charity. RFDS does what it 

does purely for altruistic reasons and serves as a good reminder to all of us 

about why we chose this path in life. 

- Michael Toolis (II)


At the recent 10th National Rural Health Conference in Cairns, 

4th year Shelley Davies won a poetry competition judged by her 

peers at the conference - doctors, health professionals and 

students. The competition was hot and it is a credit to Shelley that 

she won first prize. It’s a pretty powerful poem too - check it out. 

KA is the vehicle licence plate letters for Katanning where I completed my rural GP rotation during February. The pool 

was closed for refurbishment over the Summer. There was a young boy living opposite the nurses’ quarters who would 

ride his bike next to me as I took a walk in the mornings before the ward round. I was a teacher before medical school 

and had been inspired by a lecture from Prof Francis Lannigan in the week prior to this rotation. This poem is a reflection 

of my experience and frustration of my time in the bush, the things we talked about and the Prof’s lecture. 

All is quiet in KA…...... 

Miss, I can’t hear you 

Miss, look up from your book, 

Walk close to me, tell me what to do 

Please talk slow to me Miss, come here have a look. 

Hey Miss, I can’t hear you! 

I don’t know what to do next 

“Hey Michael what’s going on, you show me what to do.” 

Come, help me do some work here. 

I’m not yelling Miss, I don’t know what to do 

I can’t get it, is it my turn now, is this my pencil? 

Do we have sport today? 

Can I sit with the new boy? 

Ah, don’t worry about it Miss ....... I can’t hear you. 

We all yell at my house, 

We can all hear each other. 

People think we squabble and fight 

Nuh, that’s how we talk in our way. 

We didn’t go to Esperance these holidays 

Aunty used to take us but the car is broken down. 

There’s a funeral on Friday everybody’s comin’ to our place, 

Its good fun having all my cousins ‘round. 

Hey Miss, I can’t hear you 

I’m not going to school today its boring 

Only get troubles from my teacher 

‘Cos I never know what to do. 

Hey Doc, I know you are telling Aunty something. 

I see you talk about me but I can’t hear you. 

You’re looking in my ears again, you’re not looking at me. 

You smile back at me, when I smile at you. 

But I still can’t hear you... 

More pink medicine, another day off school, 

Hey I’m not sick, I just can’t hear you. 

Home all day, riding my bike all night and the pool’s shut. 

Hanging with friends, we’re not bad, we just can’t hear you. 

Aunty I’m trying to listen, I know what you say, 

But Miss, she don’t talk to me that way! 

I’m no good I can’t learn and I won’t stay there! 

Because... I... just…. can’t….. hear…… you! 

POEM: 

All Is Quiet In KA 

By Shelley Davies 

Katanning Sheep Yards 

Katanning Streetscape 

Shelley’s daughter and travelling partner Grace 

posing with the poem and certificate (presumably 

Mum’s already pocketed the cash!)


NZMSA Conference 

NZMSA conference for 2009 was themed 'the 

art of medicine' and based in Christchurch from 

May1-3. Trying to understand the art of 

medicine is a massive undertaking but we got a 

fairly good insight into what all the fuss is 

about! A conference behind the idea was the 

best way to demonstrate that we are living in a 

changing era of medicine where more and 

more doctors are using their career as a 

platform for doing something different, 

whether that be climbing mountains, research, 

teaching or just putting a new spin on their 

careers. 

It tried to show us that we are lucky to have 

these sorts of opportunities in a career that is typically thought of as rigid with no time for exploring other 

interests. Listening to a doctor give a tutorial on creating your own pathways has changed my thinking of this. 

This particular doctor developed a love of wine during his career and was always dreaming of starting his own 

small winery. He had a solid career, was one of the leading neurologists in Auckland and was well settled but still 

felt something was missing. It was when he took a course in wine-making, used some vines from his parents 

backyard and made his first bottle of wine that everything changed. From here the passion grew, medicine 

gradually took a smaller role in his life, wine-making slowly became his drive in life. To cut a long story short, he 

now owns Pegasus wines, one of the first and largest wineries in the south island of NZ producing over 500,000 

bottles annually and distributing them worldwide. He has added on a restaurant to his vineyard which has been 

titled best restaurant in NZ over 2 years. This came with support from his family, his wife running the show and 

children taking up business degrees to become the company's managers. 

Alongside this he somehow found the time to develop a centre 

for neurological research in Christchurch and is currently 

publishing a book in movement disorders. So quite a 

remarkable story from someone who followed his two great 

passions, medicine and wine. Even though he had to work hard 

for it, it made me think about the opportunities that might 

present themselves over the coming years and where I could 

end up. It just means we aren't locked in, medicine is a long 

path but the interests we have and the hobbies we enjoy could 

one day also play a massive role in either who we are as 

doctors, or what our career ultimately ends up being. 

The conference invited about 120 medical students from 

Australia and NZ to listen to some of NZ's leading doctors talk 

about the challenges we face as future doctors, the best ways 

to look after ourselves, health issues including in the south 

pacific and case scenarios where various consultants from specialties across the board, battled it out with their opinions to 

determine the best outcome for particular patients. Two formal/social nights were highlights of the conference with 

opportunities to mingle with deans of medical schools at both Auckland and Otago and other doctors from NZ who all 

were interested to hear about medical student life in Australia. It was also the perfect chance to check out some of 

Christchurch's happening night-life in sub zero temperatures! 

One of the best lectures was about well-being, looking after yourself and 

what makes people truly happy based on evidence based research. 

A website was developed around this theme and is well worth looking at 

for help in these areas: http://www.calm.auckland.ac.nz 

Overall well worth the 8 hour flight and they seemed really keen for 

aussies to get involved in future conferences. Check out their website at 

http://www.nzmsa.org.nz for more details. 

- Andrew Leech (IV) and Chantelle Ruoss (II)

“When faced with 

issues of patient 

advocacy, both on the 

ward and in the wider 

community, the 

knowledge of 

philosophical theory 

can only better equip 

the clinician to attain 

better outcomes for 

patients” 

WHY KIDS MAKE BAD DOCTORS 

The Prez Sez 

Pres Runci talks, 

we listen 

Not Just An MBBS 

‘A great memory does not make a mind, any more than a 

dictionary is a piece of literature’ (John Henry Newman, 

1801-1890). It is not hard to believe that Newman, 

renowned for his contribution to modern tertiary 

education through his series of pieces on The idea of a 

university, would be a supporter of the study of philosophy, 

theology and ethical as core units in the Notre Dame 

MBBS. 

When enrolling for an MBBS, the study of the biomedical 

sciences is an expected (and of course integral) part of the 

medical curriculum. The study of medical ethics, especially 

in today’s world of applied medical genetics, life sustaining 

technology and litigation, is a widely accepted topic 

integrated into Australian medical curricula. However, the 

dedicated reading of philosophical, theological and ethical 

theories as separate units is a unique aspect of the Notre Dame Curriculum and one 

that provides graduates with a framework to explore the broad concepts of the three 

disciplines while following themes related to the practice of medicine. Aspects of the 

unit coursework related to assessment, delivery and evaluation may be points of 

ongoing feedback by the student body but on reflection it is not hard to reason why 

the role of these units is both important and relevant to the practice of medicine. 

The reading of philosophical theory equips the student with a broad introduction to 

the nature of philosophical argument, to recognise both fallacy and truth. To the 

newborn philosopher this opens up not just many questions beginning with “Why?” 

but provides a framework to analyse, synthesize and develop robust argument. 

When faced with issues of patient advocacy, both on the ward and in the wider 

community, the knowledge of philosophical theory can only better equip the clinician 

to attain better outcomes for patients. 

The role of theology in the medical curriculum is both contentious and unique in the 

forum of Australian tertiary medical education. Whilst there is no doubt some 

skepticism from some students at the start of each university year, the content is 

delivered in an interesting and relevant way, and many 

students find that the experience is a valuable and eyeopening 

aspect of the medical curriculum. Students are 

invited to consider the patient in the context of their 

culture, traditions and values. Issues in medical practice 

influenced by cultural values are explored and discussed 

with consideration of cultural sensitivities. 

When combined with the broad ethical theory and 

specifically the area of bio-ethics the former two core units 

add value to the graduating doctor in developing skills to 

manage patient care with consideration of cultural 

sensitivities, robust patient advocacy and balanced ethical 

decision making – all essential in modern day medical 

practice. So, the inclusion of these units is one strategy by 

which the MBBS at Notre Dame is not just about the 

memorization and regurgitation of biomedical facts but 

about developing a mind for the practice of clinical 

medicine. 

-This is a copy of an article by James that appeared in the April 

issue of AMA(WA)’s Medicus magazine that we thought might 

inspire discussion regarding the core units.

Notre dame graduates 

As you all know, the first posse of Notre Dame graduates were set loose on the 

world last year. Here at Notre Damus we’ve been on the hunt ever since to find one 

of the gang to report back to us, as one of us, what it’s like out there in the big wide 

world. Is it just like House? Or more like Grey’s? Do they give you a royal flush on 

your first day? And so the list goes. So, at last we have latched on to Alastair 

Scarr, Notre Dame Graduate and Royal Perth Intern, and we’re not letting go. 

Alastair has agreed to make this an ongoing thing so if you’ve got anything you’d 

like to ask our oracle of wisdom, send ’em in. 

The Good & bad 

According to Big Al 

GOOD BITS 

It is just like Scrubs 

No more exams for a while 

Patients believe you actually 

know something 

You actually get to make 

decisions 

Regular pay 

Wicked teaching from Regs 

Hospital pubs on Friday 

Knowing ND students by 

name who can run to get coffee 

Getting it right and seeing the 

results 

UWA become colleagues 

BAD BITS 

Saturday morning ward rounds 

Crappy handovers that you are 

guaranteed are sorted 

Soft referrals to radiology 

Paper paper paper 

Prescribing drugs for the first 

time 

Internship: 3 months in 

Internship. It’s what you’ve been working and waiting for. 

All those lectures, tutes and exams are ultimately directed 

here. Is it really just like Scrubs? Yeah I guess. You are very 

much on your L-plates. You have earned your wings but you 

still know SFA. But you will get to have those ‘I’m really a 

doc, I’m actually doing this, I actually made that decision and 

got it right” moments. So what I have I learned? 

Interns know a lot, but still so little. Can you diagnose and 

describe a fracture but can you name the different fractures 

of the forearm and describe the appropriate plaster 

position? Colles, Smiths, Bartons, Hutchinsons. Don’t 

worry, you’ll have plenty of bosses to help you out and 

you’ll quickly learn how to source information as you need. 

Special investigation 

You will have a lot of fun. You will progress through the 

year and be able to relate experiences with new colleagues. 

Unfortunately you still have no experience in actually getting 

the paperwork, phone calls and mundane tasks done. As a 

student you should ask the intern or RMO you are working 

with to let you make referrals, fill out drug charts, fluid orders and 

discharge summaries. This will give you some idea but don’t spend 

too much time. You will become rapidly familiar with these tasks 

once working and none of it will be on your finals. 

For those of you in final years, you might be surprised, as I was, of 

the actual relevance of some of the more tedious tasks burdened 

upon us by Uni; the clinical skills logbook, for example. I have actually 

found myself keeping a daily log of the skills I have performed. I log a 

daily learning task, something I encountered and didn’t know enough 

about. And sure, a lot of the learning is on the job, but it remains 

important to be a self-motivated, self-directed learner. 

To me, as a student and an intern, medicine has always been a game. 

Perhaps that is an inappropriate way of looking at what many 

consider a serious career. But truthfully, I really enjoy showing up 

each shift to embrace the challenges of the day. Sometimes you have 

an easy win. Some days you get thumped and can’t wait for the final 

whistle so you can skulk home. But I still love the sport. Look 

forward to seeing you on the field!

Cocktail Party 2009 

The MSAND cocktail party for 2009 was held at the 

Cottesloe Hotel on Saturday the 9 th May. It was great 

to see about 230 med student don their gowns and 

suits and forget about their studies for one night. I 

think it’s safe to say that everyone in attendance had 

a great time sipping away at the champagne while 

watching the waters of Cottesloe beach below and 

later hitting the dance floor to the tunes of Luke SB 

who did a great job once again! At the end of the 

evening the brave ones climbed onto the buses for 

Clubba and continued their partying early into the 

morning (in a responsible fashion of course!). Of 

course this wonderful event was made possible by 

sponsorship by MIPS and a special thankyou goes out 

to them and Clare Cole who is always a delight to 

deal with....Thankyou MIPS and Clare!!

Cocktail Party 2009

Cocktail Party 2009 

...and then as the clock struck midnight 

and some turned into pumpkins, others 

kicked off their glass slippers and jumped 

on the bus of debauchery and headed off 

for a night of construction work at 

Clubba… it’s best not to ask!

Feature Article 

Not a drop to drink 

With such a complex, global issue like water rights, it is easy for us to say ‘that’s not relevant to me, it’s 

happening too far away’. But as you have seen tonight the issue couldn’t be closer to home. In particular, issues of 

water quality and availability significantly affect the Australian Indigenous community, and perpetuate poor 

environmental health standards and gaps in life expectancy. 

EXAMPLE (NINGA MIA) 

A Heartfelt Plea from 

Associate Editor Katy Algie 

On Tuesday 12 th May some Notre Dame students held a Rally on campus. They titled the event “What 

Water? – Tap into water rights” and its aim was to raise awareness of the current global water shortage. 

They also screened a student made film called 'five' where 5 students challenged themselves to live like 

many in developing nations and survive off 5 Litres of water for 5 day. The results were obvious- an 

increase in awareness of the value of water and a deeper understanding of the plight of over 2 billion 

people worldwide. Printed below is an abridged version of the talk given by one of the evening’s guest 

speakers, Peter Dawson. Access to safe drinking water is recognised by the UN as a fundamental human 

right, and Peter has organised a petition for Parliament requesting that the current inequalities in access 

to sanitary drinking water in Western Australia be addressed. The petitions will be circulating around 

PBLS so get on board... One day, hopefully, we’ll all be able to ‘drink that shit’. 

I recently visited a community called Ninga Mia, it is known as a ‘town based reserve’ as it sits just outside 

Kalgoorlie. For many of the residents and visitors, shelter in Ninga Mia ends up being blue tarpaulins strung 

between trees because the houses are either too small or in complete disrepair. In the sub-zero temperatures of 

the desert winter the entire community’s heating system is a fire in a 44 gallon drum. 

This Aboriginal community is blighted by poverty, inadequate infrastructure and unsanitary facilities. 

The irony is that Ninga Mia literally sits in the shadow of one of the biggest gold mines in the world, the 

framework of the enormous Kalgoorlie ‘superpit’ is an ever-present reminder of the extreme wealth and privilege 

the Ninga Mia community will never be a part of. 

The Wongkutha Aboriginal people 

in this area in fact, first led the white 

settlers to the gold, but although 

26,000 tonnes are mined every year, 

totaling $360 million on the world 

markets, no contribution goes back 

into the Ninga Mia community. 

In 1985 the residents were provided 

with the bare necessities to survive, 

but have since been forgotten and 

left alone to get on with a life to 

which they are not accustomed, 

unable to cope with the massive 

changes. In addition to the 

enormous 'Superpit', the lime kilns 

that loom over Ninga Mia create 

dusty, unhygienic conditions that 

cause respiratory problems, 

especially in the children aged 0-5 

who make up over 30% of Ninga 

Mia’s population.

Add to this an unreliable water 

supply, antique and inappropriate 

sewerage systems, and water that 

doesn’t meet quality standards, is it 

any wonder that Indigenous people 

h a v e s i g n i f i c a n t l y h i g h e r 

hospitalization rates for diseases 

related to poor environmental 

health, and death rates over 4 times 

higher. It seems fitting for the wider 

community that Ninga Mia is situated 

out of sight and does not even 

appear on the tourist maps; it is truly 

an 'invisible' community. 

RIGHT TO TRADITIONAL LAND 

Aboriginal people have a right to choose to live on their traditional land because of cultural connections to their 

country, and should not have to accept sub-standard essential utility services as a reality of that choice. The 

people of Ninga Mia are a proud and passionate community, their ancestors have lived there for thousands of 

years, and this land they choose to live on is at the heart of their culture, all their stories, history, dreaming, song 

and dance is a part of that land. 

Supporting Aboriginal people to live on country is important because living on country in a traditional lifestyle has 

been shown to be VERY beneficial for tens of thousands of years prior to colonisation – good health, good 

nutrition, natural water supply, good wellbeing – thousands of years as the oldest living culture just didn’t happen 

accidentally... 

Australia has signed up to the ‘Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People’ and its implications - that is the 

right to maintain culture; to live on country; to receive services (I.E. WATER). 

So, in fact, the government has a responsibility to provide the basic living requirements that are so desperately 

needed in these communities, so that culture can be reignited and connections to land restored. 

PETITION 

Feature Article 

In response to the issue, we have put together a petition to be presented to the 

lower house of Parliament, which calls for the implementation of a large-scale 

program to normalise Water Services across Western Australia, ensuring that 

all citizens, including Indigenous Australians living in remote communities, 

receive the same standard of Water quality and availability. There are copies of 

the petition at the door and I would ask that all of you consider signing it, 

because you would be signing for real change and a move towards ‘closing the 

gap’.

Special Feature It’s come to our attention that some of 

our esteemed colleagues may not 

actually be who they seem. It may just be 

that our ranks are being infiltrated by celebrities 

who to escape the glaring lights of fame are 

going under cover to hide in the relative safety 

of the Notre Dame Med School. While we 

don’t begrudge them this, we feel it is our civic 

duty to out these imposters to the rest of us in 

their midst. So below we present the first of an 

ongoing feature where we reveal the true 

identity of these people. If you’ve spotted an 

imposter, keep a safe distance and report them 

to media@msand.org.au immediately. 

I swear you Look like... 

Ed ‘The Voice’ Rohr 

(II) is Will Ferrell as 

Frank "The Tank" Ricard 

David ‘Monty’ Edwards (II) is 

Russell Crowe as John Nash (oh 

what a Beautiful Mind…) 

Andy De Groot (I) is 

Pamela Anderson 

from Baywatch

Laura McDermott (II) 

is Libby from Neighbours 

Jason Miller (II) is an orange 

I swear you Look like 

Dr Terry Buchan is 

Brooks from The 

Shawshank Redemption 

Michael Toolis (II) is 

the Mohawked Crazy 

from Mad Max II 

Special Feature

Med School 

Over the past month the ND Med School has 

been all a-twitter with talk about the MSAND 

Cocktail party held at The Cottesloe Hotel. See 

my Fashion Wrap later in this issue for pics of 

who was hot and who was issued a fashion 

felony. 

The upcoming AMC review has left many 

students confused as to the exact hierarchy at 

ND SoM. The diagram below represents the 

current hierarchy: 

On a final note: Do not wear your hospital ID 

badge down at uni – especially on a lanyard. 

No one is going to see it and mistakenly think 

you are head of complicated neurovascular 

micro-paediatric reconstructive surgery at 

RPH. You look like a tool who can’t remember 

their own name. 

xoxo Gossip Girl 

How to tie a bow tie “simplified” 

Dr B. Roberman with Gossip Girl 

What’s Hot – What’s Not 

Drop GG a line at: gossip_girl_nd@hotmail.com 

Those with a keen eye may have noticed that 

whilst on placement at various locations 

around Perth, that Hospitals have got talent. 

Now, not all staff at a hospital look like 

McSteamy or Izzie from Grey’s Anatomy, and 

most patients aren’t as hot as Jessica Alba. 

But it is always worth checking out who works 

in the cafeteria and gift shop or sitting in the 

waiting room for a while – if you play your 

cards right you may be able to get some 

phone numbers. 

Giggity giggity! 

G. Quagmire 

MSAND Cocktail party 

Rowdy 

Paparazzi photos 

ND Physio students 

Potato and leek soup 

Arrogant Frog 

Med library book collection 

Twitter 

Endocrine system 

Sequels 

Portfolio 

Disclaimer: the afore mentioned advice may 

be a bit morally dubious 

Reg: “Why do they put nails in coffins?”, Students: “Dunno”, Reg: “To stop oncologists giving chemo.”

Med School 

Looking after babies 

GG shares with you her simple instructions 

for looking after babies so that you do not 

appear idiotic on paediatrics rotation. 

Looking after babies is about 

seeming capable and confident 

and skills learnt here can even 

help you pick up at the park. 

Let’s start with names not to call a baby: 

Abseedee (spelt Abcd) 

Jenna Tailor 

Holding a baby should be straight forward but 

some people manage to get this wrong and 

head lock the baby. See here how not to hold 

a baby: 

Seen diagrammatically 

here: 

Babies don’t have teeth so milk is best, avoid 

foods like chicken. 

Following my instructions 

will give the illusion that 

you are experienced and 

safe and will shift 

responsibility onto others. 


Code Purple at PMH 

Stu (III) Ramin (Reg) Conor (RMO) Cam (III) 

“It’s my choice” 

With Global Financial Crisis upon us a 

different approach to wines is necessary. I 

have found from extensive party planning 

experience that people like cheap wine that 

tastes “good”. Now boxed wine (aka: Boxus 

Goonus, Max Biaggi and others) traditionally 

gets a bad rap. But when you push the button 

and watch the liquid gold come out – well 

that’s heaven. Apart from the fun of pushing 

the button – boxed wine allows one to 

partake in events such as “Goon of 

fortune©”, goon football and when the night 

ends goon pillow. I suggest pizza or preferably 

no food to go with a well decanted Fruity 

Lexia. 

Fruity Lexia, $12 for 4L, 1/2 out of 5 

“Your tongue is so warm, but don’t do that again!” – 2 nd years

Med School 

Man vs. Machine 

Charlie Gallagher Accuracy International 50 Calibre 

Sniper Rifle 

Designation: Second year medical student Sniper rifle 

Barrel: 38cm biceps 50 Calibre, 810mm long 

Feed 

mechanism: 

“Out Back Jacks” 5 or 8 round box magazine 

Operation: Smooth Semi automatic 

Effective: 5 second beer chug Human size target at 1800m 

Scope: Perth night spots 10x Wolf Eyes tactical night vision scope 

Weight: 89kg 9.4kg empty, without scope or bipod 

Manufactured: Melbourne, Australia United Kingdom 

Comments: Effective weapon around 

Notre Dame med school and 

in boat race competitions. 

Preferred long range intervention weapon of 

military snipers. Arctic warfare and counter 

terrorism versions available. 

Patient after testosterone injection – “Now will I feel all horny?”, Dr – “Just make sure you point it the right way.”

Med School 

Cocktail Party Fashion Wrap 

Gossip Girl loves a good cocktail party, so I set the TiVo to 

record Lost, booked my Mystic Tan and got out my best 

LBD. 

Everyone looked fierce and some great couture was seen. Notable outfits were: Stu (III) with a retro 

chic shirt and tie combo, Chantelle (II) in a lovely black and silver number and Ania (III) was sexyglam 

in black and purple with peep toe heels. 

Colour was a feature for many of the ladies. 

The first year ladies were dazzling with their designer looks. Rebecca (I), 

Katherine (I) and Ru (I) set tongues wagging with this pic snapped by a 

paparazzo photog. 

The fashion police were out in force and 

issued Andrew Gillard (III) a fashion 

felony for his vest with no jacket combo 

and Harry Cooper hat (not seen here 

thankfully though). 

DJ LSB (III) was seen drinking vodka like it 

was champagne and kept the music pumping all night.

Med School 

Others spotted looking ferosh were: Dougal (I), Gabi (II) and Anna (I) 

Second year girls showed us how to pose for the cameras, while the the happy couple Rob (III) 

and Claire (II) looked amazing. 

End of fashion wrap... 

And who am I? Well that’s one 

secret I’ll never tell. 


Style icons Ania (III) and Luke (III)

Stuff 

cartoon 

ADVERTISEMENT 

Not to assume our readers are 

ignoramuses, but in case you’re not as upto-date 

as our satirist: “Krudd just halved 

the medicare rebate for ophthalmology - 

claims that a procedure that was 45 min 

when price introduced is now only 15-20 

min... SO cut rebate from $800 to $400 

roughly. Means lots of people in the 

country wont get service, and that 

medicine is again being put on the 

production line. So anyway, that's what 

this one is about...”

Stuff 

Your natural study guide 

It is that time again, time to cleanse the mental colon, 

detoxify the mental filing cabinet, release the brain 

strain with a mental enema so that exams can be 

approached with the floating lightness of a cerebral 

circus performer. Follow this plan TO THE LETTER for 

the best exam results… REMEMBER! If you do not 

commit wholeheartedly to the following preparations, 

their result cannot be guaranteed! 

7AM : Rise and greet the sun with you chakra fully opened and open the doors to your mental potential by chanting the 

following mantra : “I am a beautiful butterfly, whose mind can float among the flowers of knowledge, my wings are thoughts, 

my future is sweet”. 

Perform Butterfly Interperative Dance Routine. (Routine available on DVD at Mindovermatter.com.au) 

7:30 AM Cleanse the teeth with extract of Einstein (RRP $129 per 25gm, available at Mindovermatter.com.au) 

7:35 AM Break your fast with some mental fibre: Read 10 pages from “1000 ways to use time effectively” (RRP $59.99 from 

Mindovermatter.com.au) 

8:30 AM Ask yourself, “Are my notes arranged according to the Fung Shui of the Study room?” 

This is vitally important!!! If notes are misaligned, then the dragon of unhappiness will roost in your hippocampus and throw flame to 

your temporal lobes! 

For a complete guide to Study Room Fung Shui, consult a specialist. These are available at $200 per hour, and can be booked 

at Mindovermatter.com.au 

NOTE: Numerous scientific studies have shown that Study Fung Shui must be daily aligned to the stars, 

breeze and movements of your dog’s colon. These necessitate daily modifications to your basic setup. 

12:30 PM Pause for lunch. Avoid all foods containing carbohydrates, fats or proteins. These will clog up your mental processes 

and prevent your mental mastication of medical minutiae. Try “Complete Cerebal Consumable”, a fabulous fluid meal 

replacement that tastes like happiness with a hint of lemon. (Available at $15 per sachet from Mindovermatter.com.au) 

1:00 PM Limber up your lobes by Osmotic Learning. This wonderful new study technique relies on recognition that all in the 

universe is one, ergo you are one with your books, notes, and lectures online. 

1. Arrange your books into a circle on the floor, placing each subject matter at a specific nodes of the earth’s energy. 

Turn on your computer and open to the file which has your notes and lectures, but DO NOT OPEN A SPECIFIC FILE! 

2. Now sit in the nexus and meditate, allowing the vibe of medicine to ooze into you consciousness. 

3. Chant the following mantra for extra assistance, “Public health, Pharmacology, Pathology, Microbiology, Clinical 

Skills, BCS – My mind is a haven for your knowledge.” 

Be sure to chant this using the centuries old, “Wongszieman” 

technique, originally invented by Emperor “Nho Crue” from the 

island of “Ghullibilia” in central Russia. This technique is hard to 

master, but coaching is available online at Mindovermatter. 

Com.au ($80 per 15 minute session). 

6:00 PM Your work is almost done! Now it is time to relax by 

again opening your Chakra, dancing the sun down and stoking 

the metabolic fire with another nourishing “Complete Cerebral 

Consumable”. 

Well done! 

Follow this routine daily until exams, and I will personally 

guarantee that your results will amaze you! 

Dr Waigongwong Schz, MDD, ARDS, ADHD. 

Mind Over Matter Univeristy, Ghullibilia.

Gabi K: “I wouldn’t want to be Urologist” 

J. Miller: “Yeah that would piss you off...” 

Stuff 

On the female menstrual cycle: “...that’s bloody interesting” 

On female genitourinary anatomy : “I can’t wait to get into it” 

Gabi K: “I’m pretty sure the patient has osmotic diarrhoea “ 

PBL Tutor: “Well done, good diagnosis!” 

J. Miller: “She knows her shit” 

Gabi K: “Diarrhoea, who wants that?” 

J. Miller: “Not me, it shits me” 

On hearing about the types of diarrhoea: 

“That’s the shit!” 

PBL Tutor: “I think we need to go into a bit more 

detail on ulcerative colitis” 

J. Miller: “I think you’re being really anal about it” 

After copying down the LOs during a gastro week: 

“They’re shitty LOs” 

Gabi mentions a woman who’s had a number of 

gastric operations 

J. Miller: “Wouldn’t that just gut you” 

After hearing an explanation of the anatomy of the 

throat: “That’s difficult to swallow” 

Every year’s got one, that determined prankster who 

against the odds always seems to rise to the top - kind 

of like that turd that won’t clear the bowl no matter 

how many times you flush - in the end it’s comical and 

you just have to admire that tenacity to go against the 

flow. In second year there is Jumpin’ Jas Miller, a serial 

punner. Social Rep Gabi is in Jas’ PBL and to relieve her 

suffering she is recording the barrage of puns that flows 

from Uncle Jas and will deliver them to you dear readers 

on a semi-regular basis. So get your groans ready boys 

and girls, here we go... 

Uncle jas’ 

punderful world

What the 

reps reckon 

Sarah - 1st 

Year 

IWell, it’s been pretty quiet on the western front this 

month. I think it’s safe to say that everyone that attended 

the cocktail party had a fantastic time! It was great to see 

the 1 st year ladies all frocked up and the gentlemen all 

looking sharp in their suits. The year was looking hot! I saw many talented people 

magically make alcohol disappear before my very eyes at the bar, as well as some amazing 

balancing acts involving very little spilling of numerous drinks as they were carefully 

carried away from the (very crowded) bar. 

There have also been several interesting and fun educational events, including the 

confronting and eye-opening documentary Rape in the Congo, as well as the very popular 

talk by Dr. Kathryn Edyvane and the skill-requiring suturing session that followed. I think 

that study and exams are in everyone’s minds as these last few weeks of the first semester 

tick by and we all start looking forward to the short break that follows! 

Rohen - 2nd Year 

Recently I have not been advocating 

for MED200 much, and have returned 

to join you all in stressed out study mode. Exams are on their way, however I’m sure like 

last year we are all amping up our stress levels all to say, why did I waste so much energy 

studying, when we meet at the pub to have a well earned beverage following MSAT’s. On 

a happier note, there are no more core unit lectures and only a single Ethics exam 

standing between us and a complete focus on real medicine. AMC (Australian Medical 

Council) accreditation is coming up in a couple of weeks, so please feel free to email me 

with any advice you would like the AMC team to pass on (constructive things only please). 

Also just to let you all know Prof Frost is cracking the whip behind the scene to beat out 

the hiccups and continue to build an awesome medical school for us all.

Meet the press 

Born? The bustling metropolis that is 

Armidale NSW. 

What were you in your former 

(pre-med) life? Had a crack at a 

Ph.D. researching differentially 

expressed genes between dark and 

light skin using...blah blah blah...most 

people's attention starts fading about 

now. 

If you were an animal what 

would it be? Sloth, a very lazy sloth! 

If you could be any superhero 

who would you be and what 

powers would you 

have? Superhero: Astroboy, being 

the greatest superhero of all time he 

needs no explanation. Humm, super 

power. I guess the only super power 

lacking in the Astroboy arsenal would 

have to be a Batman style phone with 

a direct line to Jasmine's office. 

Anything to try and figure out where 

and what on earth I'm meant to be 

doing to get through this degree. 

Born? Yes, 18th December, Broken Hill 

Base hospital, delivered by my 

grandfather. 

Damien Turner: 4th Year 

What makes you angry? 

Not having my Batman 

phone! 

What’s the best thing 

about living in Perth? The 

people, the beaches, the life 

style. 

What’s the worst? Being 

so far away from family and 

friends back east. 

If you were stuck on a 

desert island what 5 

things would you take 

with you? Laurie my 

partner, our little star Aiden, 

Astroboy dvds, my GPS unit 

(I get lost walking around 

the block), and of course my We don’t think 

Batman phone. 

this is Damo, but 

Last, but not least, who it may well be the 

would you change sexual product of his loins 

orientation for? Good old 

Hugh Jackman. It goes without saying 

that he would have to be the little 

spoon in this romantic soiree. 

Georgie Fisk: 2nd Year 

What were you in your former (pre 

-med) life? A chemistry graduate with 

the full intention of becoming a multilingual 

travelling gypsy and never 

returning to study again. 

If you were an animal what would it 

be? Definitely not a sloth or a ferret. 

Shivers run down my spine just thinking 

about those two. Perhaps a Black 

Panther or a Condor. 

If you could be any superhero who 

would you be and what powers 

would you have? I think I’d be Supersoppy 

hero woman, a superhero with 

the amazingly soppy ability to transfer a 

lifetimes worth of experience from the 

mind of a person targeted by prejudice 

into the mind of the person judging 

them, just for 10 minutes. I’m sure this 

would make the world a better place. I 

wouldn’t mind incorporating the ability 

to fly in there somewhere as well. Not 

sure how this would help mankind 

though? 

What makes you angry? PMT and 

small town gossip. 

What’s the best thing about living 

in Perth? Not having to wear a beanie 

and scarf inside my house during winter 

to be able to study comfortably. In fact, 

not having to heat my house at all during 

winter! This, moving from Hobart, is 

unbelievable! 

What’s the worst? There seems to be 

an overwhelming number of really rich 

people with really bad taste (whoops, did 

I say that out loud?) 

If you were stuck on a desert island 

what 5 things would you take with 

you? 

A fishing rod 

A really sharp knife 

A sexy masseuse that doubled as a 

psychologist 

Spanish teacher and guitar tutor (who 

just happened to bring along his own 

guitar and one for me) 

And… is it too much to ask for a library? 

Last, but not least, who would you 

change sexual orientation for? 

Scarlet Johansson in Vicky Cristina 

Barcelona.


Name: Tharsa (said Darsha just to 

make life complicated) Thillainadesan 

(to make life EVEN more 

complicated) 

Born? London 


(pre-med) life? A smug 

Sydneysider, possibly blonde and blue 

eyed. 


would it be? Elephant because they 

have big backsides and long trunks 



powers would you have? 

Wolverine with x-ray vision, (think of 

the money I could be saving the 

health department ;) 

What makes you angry? Perth 

drivers, voting against daylight savings, 

people who walk slow on pavements, 

What’s the best thing about 

living in Perth? The sun, the 

endless beaches, hubbles cafe and 

pizza from Delizioso! 

What’s the worst? Perth drivers 

If you were stuck on a desert 

island what 5 things would you 

take with you? 

Chewing gum 

Lip balm 

A ship ( so I can visit home when I 

get bored) 

Harrisons (possibly to use as an 

anchor on my ship) 

The 

Best of 

Bob 

Marley 

and the 

Wailers. 

Last, but not least, who would 

you change sexual orientation 

for? This is a tough question the 

options are endless but if I really have 

to pick – Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, 

Jessica Alba, Megan Fox, Thandie 

Newton. 

Tom Leadbetter: Defence Force Scholar 

Tom 

Tell us about yourself pre Med? I 

went straight from high school in Ipswich 

(1991), Qld to do my Bachelor of 

Occupational Therapy at UQ(1995). 

From there, I worked in community and 

acute mental health for 12 years at Qld 

Health in a range of clinical, supervisory, 

managerial and project roles. During my 

last 2 and half years with QHealth, I 

completed a Masters of Professional 

Accounting through Uni of Southern Qld 

whilst working full time. I had lived in 

Ipswich all my life, apart from about 6 

months of travel. I have been married to 

Tharsa Thillainadesan: 3rd year 

Not Tom 

Rayleen for coming close to 8 years and 

have 3 kids. 

You’ve taken a defence scholarship, 

who’d you go with and why? Air 

Force. I had applied to enter pilot 

training a couple of years before getting 

into med, but was denied due to my age. 

I guess I have developed an interest in 

military and aviation medicine since. 

Medicine was always my number one 

choice though, so the Graduate Medical 

Scheme allows me to financially support 

my family while studying. After 

graduation it will allow me to get 

involved in aviation medicine, 

aeromedical evacuations and trauma 

medicine with the RAAF, and also get 

support while I undertake GP training. 

I also didn’t consider Navy as I heard a 

guy called Jason Miller had been 

recruited by them! 

Why was the defence scholarship 

appealing? No denying it, the financial 

support is very good. I also get 

subsidised rent and free medical and 

dental care. HECS is also paid for. This is 

an obvious benefit. However, you need 

to be committed to working for the 

military in the future, be prepared to be 

sent around the country and overseas, 

and to commit yourself pretty much to 

general practice training. So, for those 

considering it, there a lot of positives, 

but you also need a full understanding of 

what you are committing to. It is a very 

appealing programme, but it involves a 

massive commitment and the 

recruitment is very rigorous. You really 

have to want to work for the military at 

the end of it, because what you will do 

as a doctor with them is unique and 

unlike any other area of medicine. 

Where are you planning on 

working in the future? I’d eventually 

like to return to Qld where my 

extended family and friends are. I also 

like the idea of the possibility of doing an 

exchange with an overseas Air Force, 

possibly in the UK or Canada. I guess I 

see myself as a doctor and GP in the 

RAAF who will get to do lots of 

interesting stuff, as well as lots of routine 

stuff. After my return of service is up, I’ll 

re-evaluate. I think I am destined to be a 

GP for the rest of my life though, which I 

would say is a good thing!


Born? 

In the back seat of the same car I was 

conceived in. 


(pre-med) life? 

It’s hard to believe but I wasn’t 

always this classy. I used to do a 

variety of hospitality jobs, mostly with 

my top off. 


would it be? 

A goldfish - I’ve heard they’ve got an 

amazing intellectual capacity. 



powers would you have? 

The riddler so I would have some 

hypnotising powers or something. I’d 

love the ability to just spurt out 

whatever shit came to mind and have 

a whole nation’s media believe it, can 

you imagine? 

What makes you angry? 

Racism. Can’t stand it. 

What's the best thing about 

living in Perth? 

The streets are safe. 

What's the worst? 

Being so far away from King’s Cross 

wannabe celeb opportunities. 

If you were stuck on a desert 

island what 5 things would you 

take with you? 

A fat wog 

A skinny wog 

A gun that goes chk chk boom 

A gullible film crew 

My new-found fortune 

Last, but not least, who would 

you change your sexual 

orientation for? 

Tracy Grimshaw from A Current 

Affair, I’d give her a chk chk boom! 

Ass. Prof. Marek Havlat: Pathological teacher 

Born? Launceston Tasmania in 1964, 

grew up in Hobart. 

If you were an animal what would it 

be? I am fond of cephalopods (especially 

octopi) because of their unique adaptive 

abilities, their clear intelligence, 

personalities and colourful emotive 

expressions. They also have great 

ingenuity and determination: I once saw 

an octopus that was caught by a 

fisherman and given up for dead , drag 

itself out of a beached boat and crawl 

through dry sand for 60 metres to the 

Clare Werbeloff: Bogan 

water's edge, successfully rescuing it's 

own life. I like that sort of toughness & 

determination. Having 8 arms means one 

can be involved in many things at once. 

If you could be any superhero who 

would you be and what powers 

would you have? A difficult one. I 

more admire antiheroes: people that 

seem to 'fail' in the world's eyes but have 

upheld truth and justice. So clearly an 

ability to know one's mind, to go against 

the tide, and to be able to stand alone in 

dire times are important qualities in my 

book. I like people like Sir Thomas More, 

Sophie Scholl, to name a few. 

What makes you angry? My day is 

always very full, so I do get very 

impatient with time wasting and 

thoughtless disorganisation, from 

whatever cause. 

What’s the best thing about living 

in Perth? The Mediterranean climate, 

the water and the beaches. I grew up in a 

cold, high latitude climate. Perth is a real 

change from that. I like the opportunity 

to explore the vast countryside of WA, 

camping, 4WDing. 

What’s the worst? Perth is remote. I 

sometimes miss the snow, temperate 

rainforest & mountains of Tasmania. 

If you were stuck on a desert island 

what 5 things would you take with 

you? 

I would take my various language books 

to keep up the practice. 

I would upload my entire classical CD 

collection onto an i-pod (which I haven't 

got) 

I would figure out how to access my 

nonfictional library of books on-line. 

As I like to swim for fitness, I would take 

my bathers, goggles and some flippers. 

I would also take sunglasses, a hat and a 

beach chair, lots of food & wine. 

Last, but not least, who would you 

change sexual orientation for? 

Mmm - I do not know how to answer 

this question but... Portia Di Rossi 

(Editor’s note: Apparently the plan is to 

turn gay to turn lesbian Portia straight!)

June 2009 - MSAND

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