winter edition 2008 - Faculty of Business and Law - Victoria University

DEGREESWINTER EDITION 2008SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGINSIDEThe sky’s the limit...p 3REAL WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE...p 5DREAMING A VILLAGE TO LIFE...p 8–9MIDDLE EAST BECKONS MOHAMED...p 11

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGPAC PROFILE – Mary maddockCurrent roleI am managing director of Mary MaddockConsulting which has a passion for thetourism sector and has now been operatingfor 17 years. My business focuses onfacilitation and consulting, particularlyin regional and strategic business andmarketing planning. My client base is stateand local government, industry associations,industry committees of management, industryboards, organisations, regional communities,collaborative groups and operators.PAC involvementMary Maddock standing in Hotel Sidi Driss (an underground hotel) in a town called Matmata on the edge of the Sahara Desert. The town is notedas one of the sites where the Star Wars movies were filmed.The Programs and Advisory Committee (PAC) is responsible for reviewing allof the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Marketing’s courses. Members comefrom a wide range of industries in addition to Victoria University. Its purposeis to provide advice from an industry perspective about the courses andopportunities at Victoria University and the School of HTM, providing a realitycheck and acting as a sounding board for the staff, as well as assisting withnetworking where possible. This ensures that the School stays at the cuttingedge, so that students can graduate with up-to-the-minute skills and areimmediately employable.Career startI completed my studies with a BBus (Catering &Hotel Management, VU), a Graduate Diploma(Hospitality & Tourism Management) and aMBus (Hospitality Management, VU) in 1994.My enduring memories of my study years wasmy ‘sandwich year’ – 40 weeks out in industryin third year, together with the knowledge andenthusiasm of a number of outstanding lecturerswho pointed me in the right direction.The sandwich year and tourism-related coursework, particularly in my final year, provided mewith an early indication of my preferred interestin the tourism industry. But looking for tourismrelatedopportunities in the late 1970s waschallenging, so my initial years and experienceswere spent in hospitality operations. Theseearly ‘hands on’ hospitality experiences quicklyconfirmed for me this was not where I wantedto be long term.Career progressionKnowing the tourism industry was where Iwanted to focus, I had the opportunity to beemployed by a number of major public andprivate organisations, including the VictorianState Government, international tourismconsulting company Horwath and HorwathConsulting, construction organisationspecialising in national tourism developmentJohn Holland Properties and real estate firmColliers International which involved sellingnational tourism property – these positionsprovided the strategic and planning focusthat held strong appeal.But with the recession in the early 1990s, Iwas made redundant – not something I hadconsidered a remote possibility. Followingan extensive overseas trip, I decided to startmy own consulting company specialising insupporting the tourism industry.The PAC provides me with the opportunity toshare what is happening in the tourism industryat strategic and grass roots levels. Givenmy involvement with many different groupsplanning for their future, my association in thePAC provides me with unique observations andunderstandings, the practicality of which canbe applied at an educational level.Degrees is produced by Recollectionsby Nina on behalf of the Publisher:School of Hospitality, Tourism &Marketing, Footscray Park Campus,Victoria University, PO Box 14428,Melbourne, Victoria 8001, AustraliaEditors:Office of Project & CommunicationsOfficer Ph: (03) 9919 4413Email: marie.carabott@vu.edu.auFax: (03) 9919 4931Copy, design and production:Recollections by NinaPh: (03) 9580 6227Email: nina@recollectionsbynina.comGot some news?If you’d like to share information on agraduate, a student, or the fields ofhospitality, tourism, events or marketing,please contact the editors.Don’t want to receive thisnewsletter?Just advise us of your details andwe’ll take you off the mailing list. Faxback the cover sheet, with a note onit asking us to remove you, or email:marie.carabott@vu.edu.au your details.Front Cover: Kim Thorne in frontof Melbourne from the Rialto TowerObervation Deck.”2 VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGThe sky is the limit – or is it?Working on two of Melbourne’stallest buildings means Kim Thorne(BBus Tourism Management 2007)and Emma Kent (BBus TourismMangement 2008) often have theirheads in the clouds.But their feet are firmly on the groundwhen it comes to progressing their careers– both graduates of Victoria Universityare members of the Young TourismNetwork (YTN) and believe the benefits ofprofessional networking are unlimited.Having completed her co-op year atMelbourne Observation Deck at Rialto, Kimwas asked to stay on and now works fulltimecoordinating events and promotions.“My role has changed quite a lot overthe past 18 months and I’ve been able todevelop my skills in event management.My duties involve brainstorming andimplementing new events and promotionsinvolving the Observation Deck and RialtoTowers. The most rewarding aspect is thevariety of tasks that I perform each day andthe people I meet along the way,” Kim said.Being a member of the YTN also givesKim opportunities to meet new people –especially fellow graduates.“Meeting new people is definitely ahighlight of the network. Knowing there areothers out there in the same situation as mewho are recent graduates and new to theindustry is great.“But it’s also a privilege to have access tomembers of the wider tourism communitywho are willing to share their ownexperiences and help us get a ‘foot in thedoor’ by giving us advice and guidance inour careers.”Kim said YTN fosters career developmentand professional excellence of youngpeople in the Victorian tourism industryby connecting young and new entrantsto the industry through networking andprofessional development events andindustry alliances.“The YTN also aims to enable the broadertourism industry to understand the goals,views and issues which are important toyounger people in the industry,” she said.Over at Eureka Tower, Emma is alsomanaging a high-rise career and has workedat the skydeck since April 2007. In her roleas assistant manager, she recruits, trains andmonitors staff, oversees the running of theoffice, troubleshoots and manages the dayto-dayrunning of the business.Emma first became involved in the YTNwhen she started at the Skydeck, attendingevents with colleagues, and said it is a greatway to meet with other young professionalsin the tourism industry, especially to supportthe business she represents.“The Skydeck is a new business, so it iscrucial that we are proactive in meetingmanagement from other attractions andtourism agencies to cement ourselves as anally in the local tourism market.“The YTN provides me with an avenuefor meeting other young professionals withwhom I can develop business relationshipsand organise contrat deals to benefit boththeirs and my business,” she said.The Young Tourism Network was launchedin August 2006 and is run by an electedcommittee of members who work andstudy in tourism-related fields, and includesworkshops meetings and programs designedto bring people together to share experienceand knowledge. The network is not-for-profitand is auspiced by Tourism Alliance Victoria.Both graduates agree YTN is a great way tomeet potential employers, other students, andmentors in the field, but Emma also offerssome advice to graduates thinking aboutjoining the network.Emma Kent gets a bird’s eye view from her favourite window seatin the Eureka Tower.“If you are going to go to the events, take awingman – ask a friend to go with you. It iseasier to approach people if there are twoof you and if you get stuck, you will havecompany to fall back on!”If you are interested injoining the YTN, contact thecommittee on 9650 8399 orby email at membership@youngtourismnetwork.comVICTORIA UNIVERSITY3

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGTriple bottom line – and beyondVictoria University’s AdjunctProfessor Geoffrey Lipman hasdevoted much of his work overthe last 15 years to environmentalawareness and povertyalleviation and is now committingtime to the issue of climatechange, working with VictoriaUniversity’s Centre for Tourismand Services Research.Professor Lipman is Assistant SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations WorldTourism Organisation (UNWTO). Hisinaugural address, titled ‘Tourism andclimate change: beyond the triple bottomline’, drew on the findings of the UNWTO’sclimate change summit.His address explored the emerging globalframework responding to climate changeand compared the development, challengesand opportunities today with the greenmovement in the 1990s. He argued thatthe slow pick up by the sector of the greenagenda cannot be repeated with climateProfessor Geoffrey Lipman’s inaugural address on climate changechange and proposed a new approachof ‘quadruple bottom line’ for tourismoperations that must be rigorously pursuedby the industry and government strategists.He also discussed the important role of airtransport in the growth of the global tourismphenomena; the role of aviation in climatechange; and the importance for countrieslike Australia of a climate responsiveenvironment for its continuing growth.Professor Lipman has spent more than 40years in the international tourism industryat the top levels of three internationalorganisations – International Air TransportAssociation (IATA), World Travel andTourism Council (WTTC) and UNWTO –working on aviation and tourism strategies.He also co-chaired the second InternationalConference on Tourism and ClimateChange held in Switzerland last year andsaid this was an important milestone inresponse to what is now recognised asa scientifically proven phenomenon, animmense challenge to the human raceand an additional burden for the world’spoorest countries.Get ready for the 15th annual HTE ExpoPlanning for Victoria University’s2008 Hospitality, Tourism andEvents Expo is well under wayand, according to Centre for WorkIntegrated Learning Manager BarryBroons, it will again follow what hasbecome a “winning formula”.The annual event, now in its 15th year, willbe held in September at the VU City FlindersConference Centre and will build on last year’srecord numbers of attendees.“We are at capacity at this venue andhave numerous loyal and supportive hostorganisations pre-committed to attending thisyear’s event. It will again be open to all VictoriaUniversity students, graduates and industryguests,” he said.The Expo, hosted by the University’s Centre forWork Integrated Learning, is the major annualcareers forum for students to gather informationabout general career and employmentopportunities and imminent Work IntegratedLearning positions (primarily through the wellestablished‘Co-op’ program).4 VICTORIA UNIVERSITYMr Broons said: “The Work Integrated Learningprogram at Victoria University has been in placefor more than 40 years, but has taken on aneven more critical position as the University movestowards achieving its commitment to make aminimum of 25 per cent learning in theworkplace and community a universal featureof all its courses.”This expo also offers hospitality, tourism andevents providers the opportunity to meet potentialrecruits and discuss future employment prospects.Last year, well over 100 industry guests exhibitedat the event, which was an increase of 11 percent over the previous year.Mr Broons said “The Expo gives students a tasteof what is expected on the job, how to meetand mingle in the industry, to learn generally andgenuinely about what career paths are open totourism, hospitality and events students, and togive employers a ‘sneak preview’ of our students”.“It is also a networking opportunity for Schoolstaff, and a means to showcase the University’shospitality facilities,” he said.Mr Broons was instrumental in initiating the eventwhich began in 1994 as a much smaller affair,with five selected tourism organisations which heknew were interested in recruiting the university’sCo-operative Education students (now part of theWork Integrated Learning program).“The original idea evolved into a tourism andhospitality event in the late 1990s, and alsoincluded near and recent graduates. Additionalelements included a careers panel and thegrowth into event management as a relateddiscipline, as our courses grew.“The Expo gives students a ‘real taste ‘ ofnetworking, hopefully demystifying the conceptand practice, in a friendly and fun atmospherewith real industry decision makers and manypast and current VU students and graduates,”he said.The 15th annual Hospitality, Tourismand Events Expo will be held in lateSeptember 2008 at the City FlindersConference Centre. Organisationsinterested in being part of the Expocan contact Barry Broons on(03) 9919 4546 or the Centre forWork Integrated Learning on(03) 9919 4889.

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGreal workplace experienceVictoria University graduate andtraining manager at Crown Towersand Crown Promenade Hotel PaulaNtalianis (BBus Catering & HotelManagement, 1990) is passionateabout integrated learning andloves the transformation it bringsto her students.Paula coordinates the Co-op program forVictoria University students at Crown, providingthem with opportunities to combine whatthey have learnt at university with real industryexperience.“The highlight in this role for me personally,is being able to contribute and watch eachstudent transform and progress during the yearfrom being a young, quiet, inexperiencedindividual to a more established, developed,highly skilled, assertive and confident person.This transformation takes place on everyoccasion and is a joy to watch,” she said.“The Co-op program gives students realworkplace readiness, preparing them fortheir careers once they graduate. We havehad about 25 co-op students overall andmany of them are still with Crown, enjoyingprosperous careers.”Paula said Crown provides places for upto six students each year and she wasproud of the quality of the program and theopportunities given to each student.She believes her role as a learning anddevelopment professional in the hospitalityindustry is to ensure that future hospitalityprofessionals are given real life practice tocomplement the skills and knowledge theylearn at university.“Workplace readiness is imperative forgraduates, otherwise they go into industrywith unrealistic expectations and no realunderstanding of how the industry operates.Integrated learning is a wonderful opportunity forstudents to experience this prior to graduating.“My role at Crown Towers and CrownPromenade Hotel, is to build a workforcethat is highly skilled and knowledgeable andwho have the right attitude. By coaching,mentoring and role modelling to thesestudents, I can help them to understand whatis expected of them and give them a realitycheck about working in the industry.Paula receiving her award from Peter Coyne - Executive General Manager - Human Resources, Crown, Melbourne.“By aligning the needs of the students withthose of the company, we can achieve awin–win situation and ensure the viability andfuture of our great industry,” Paula said.As a graduate of Victoria University, Paulaherself experienced a co-op year – atSouthern Pacific Hotels – and went on to workfor the organisation for eight years prior tomoving into a training and development role.During her co-op placement at St.Kilda RoadTravelodge, part of the Southern PacificHotel Groups, Paula was given exposureto all facets of the hotel from front office,housekeeping, restaurant and banquets tosales, accounts and public relations. Thisenabled her to get a good idea of the areasshe enjoyed working in.She also had the opportunity to network withmanagers and decision makers who wouldultimately be impacting on her career.“Co-op is about exploring opportunitiesin the industry and making an impact onthose who will be ultimately deciding yourcareer potential. You need to work hard andestablish a reputation for yourself.“Be enthusiastic, open-minded, be willingto go above and beyond what is expectedand most of all be passionate. Use co-opas the foundation for building your career,”Paula said.Paula is Crown’s jewelPaula Ntalianis’ passion for her work astraining manager was acknowledgedby Crown naming her Trainer of theYear 2007.Paula was short-listed from 22 trainersat Crown who were selected for theawards against criteria includingstandards of professionalism in trainingdelivery and assessment, presentationand facilitation skills and style, level ofpersonal commitment, and feedbackand testimonials from peers, managersand trainees.“Achieving this trainer of the yearaward was amazing recognition forme and an opportunity for me toshowcase my delivery skills and passionfor learning and for developing ourpeople,” Paula said.Paula went on to represent Crown in the2007 Victorian Training Awards andwas short-listed for Outstanding Teacheror Trainer of the Year. Although she wasnot quite so successful, she said shegained a lot from the experience.“Unfortunately, I did not make the topthree finalists in the state, but to beshort-listed from such a high calibre ofteaching and training professionals,was very humbling and a greatexperience for me,” Paula said.VICTORIA UNIVERSITY5

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGVOLUNTEERING – A GREAT WAY TO LEARNmay include show bag packing, packagingtable settings and marketing material for matchday and major functions, and setting up KidsClinic equipment. During events, I completehosting and tasks such as meet and greet anda barrel girl. The majority of post-event tasksare packing-up duties.The EFC has given me an amazing opportunity.I have gained enormously both professionallyand personally. The club has an outstandingfan base throughout Australia and has aprestigious reputation. Working for a businessof this stature has given me a great deal ofrespect in the community.Emma Thompson (centre) at Eastern Creek Raceway, Sydney for the V8 Supercar race.Students from Victoria University putthe ‘v’ in vocational education as‘volunteers’ at a range of events.Volunteering during your studies is a greatway to gain valuable experience in the field inwhich you are training. Whether it is helpingout with a club fundraiser, running a communityevent, or providing support for a fashion show,as a volunteer you will get first-hand experienceon which you can build to prepare yourself foryour career.Four School of HT&M student volunteers sharetheir experiences.Nadine Anne Lee (currently enrolledBBus Hosp Mgmt/Event Mgmt) –LOREAL Fashion Festival 2007The L’Oreal Fashion Festival ran in earlyMarch throughout Melbourne in a numberof venues. My role included ushering at thefashion shows and providing information tocustomers at the service desk.Volunteering at this event allowed me toestablish many contacts in the industry andobtain valuable insight into what running anevent is actually like. It also made me awareof the different aspects of the job, both good(such as the satisfaction that a group of clientshave enjoyed their evening) and bad (whenproblems arise).Knowing that I contributed and made adifference at such a large event was definitelyexciting, not to mention seeing some celebritiesand sporting heroes!I would recommend volunteering to all studentswho want to be part of the event industry. Thecontacts and opportunities are invaluable andyour perspective on the industry will totallychange. But be careful about over-commitment– these events are very tiring and consume a lotof time and sometimes money.Alison Lyons (currently enrolledBBus Hosp Mgmt/Event Mgmt) –Essendon Football ClubI’ve been involved in a Red and Black Affair,several Kids Clinics, the Legends Match, theGreat Grand Final Comedy Debate andthe Crichton Medal (Best and Fairest) forEssendon Football Club (EFC).I began volunteering in the club’s clientservices area, which sometimes involvedopening mail and sorting raffle tickets – forfive or six hours! But I was soon asked to getinvolved with the club’s major fundraiser forthe year – A Red and Black Affair – with adisco theme! All staff were asked to wearhired costumes and mine was Frieda fromABBA – including the two-inch knee-highplatform boots which made me quite nervous!My role at events is helping the four eventstaff follow the running sheet accurately andassisting with problem solving. Pre-event tasksI would really recommend volunteering. If there isa job you really want to do, don’t wait to finishuni’, talk to them now, get to know the companyand the industry. And don’t be precious, do thehard yards and the horrible tasks. They will onlysee that you’re passionate about working forthem and are industrious and committed.Emma Thompson (currently enrolledBBus Hosp Mgmt/Event Mgmt) –Werribee Football Club Auction NightI applied as a volunteer for Werribee FootballClub (WFC) to help me become better skilledin event planning and organising. I wouldencourage any student to gain as muchrelevant experience as possible.Although I worked across various functions inthe club, I was assigned to work mainly on theauction night and was involved in all facets ofthe planning and organisation of the event. Ialso designed and implemented the marketingcampaign, creating a weekly flyer for the localpaper to help promote the auction.Alison and fellowVU student Bachar Houli checking out thequarterly Bomber Magazine6 VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGVolunteering enabled me to further developskills such as decision making, negotiating,communication, networking and organisation.I was challenged at times but also receivedsupport when I needed it. This role helpedincrease my confidence in dealing with arange of people, which has proved vital in myco-op role at Caterpillar.The skills I acquired from my volunteer positionhave been invaluable, without them I wouldn’thave gained the position at Caterpillar, managingthe V8 Supercar Cat Racing program.Katharine Tsoucalas (currentlyenrolled BBus Trsm Mgmt/EventMgmt) – Sweet Temptation ExpoI volunteered for this event, the first ever forSweet Temptations Operations Manager CindyPlowman, by contacting her directly and offeringto be involved. I worked for two days of theexhibition taking on general administrativeand ticketing duties and as the children’s areasupervisor. Having the responsibility to organisethe area and the way the activities would beplayed out was a great hands-on experienceand allowed me to interact with customers.Volunteers were given an induction the weekbefore, including how the event was being puttogether and the importance of every intricatedetail – from the placement and arrangementof the exhibitors’ stands to the marketing of theevent to the public.Volunteering gives students a wonderfulopportunity to ‘taste test’ the variety of events,exhibitions, conferences, incentive events, andcommunity events. Without committing yourselfto a company, you can decide from one or twovolunteering experiences, where you believeyour niche is.I believe volunteering strengthens a personboth individually and career-wise. It providesan easy way to build your CV, especiallyif your experiences are industry related.Volunteering provides a great opportunity totry something new, experiment with a careeror even a hobby, that you may be hesitant tojump into straight away.VU student volunteers enjoyed sweet opportunities at the Expo.VU students looking forvolunteering work as part of theirstudies or course should contactAmanda Childs, Department ofWork & Integrated Learning atamanda.childs@vu.edu.au orph: 99194975.Creating cross-cultural linksPostgraduate students enrolled inVictoria University’s subject TheEvents Environment (BHO5618) haveundertaken a ‘live’ project as partof their studies this year and will beassessed on real-world outcomes.The students will prepare a bidding plan forthe Irish government to prepare a submission tohost the 2012 Euroscience Conference (ESOF2012) and in doing so will be part of VictoriaUniversity’s efforts to develop cross-cultural linksthrough event training.Associate Professor Barry O’Mahony said theproject was an exciting opportunity for studentsto work across different cultures and deal withall the issues associated with long-distancecommunication and potential cultural differences.“The Euroscience Conference is a very prestigiousevent for the promotion of scientific endeavours. Itwas founded in 1997 and has become a majorevent in Europe which is hosted over five days,every two years.”demonstrate strong connections with the localand regional academic, scientific, industrial andsocietal organisations, and be backed by keynational bodies in science and technologyin Ireland.“The submission also calls for the identificationof local cultural and tourist attractions andrestaurants, and must demonstrate fundraisingopportunities, a proposed conferenceprogram, an outreach program, exhibits, anda web presentation.“To achieve all this, the students need tocommunicate with other state agencies such asBord Failte, the Irish Tourist Board. Some reallycreative ideas have emerged, for example,student research uncovered that Evanna Lynch,who played a lead role in the Harry Pottermovies is Irish. This inspired us to suggest anoutreach program for children which might betitled ‘The magic of science’ and could be hostedby Evanna Lynch,” Assoc. Prof O’Mahony said.“Students will receive valuable feedback from anorganisation and be able to add the final reportto their curriculum vitae. This real life experienceshould give individuals a competitive advantagewhen seeking employment post graduation,”Assoc. Prof O’Mahony said.He said students would need to conduct longdistanceresearch, communicate and liaisewith the Irish scientific and tourism communitiesto prepare the bid. Their submission needs toStaff and students from left are: Natsuko Yamanash, Amila Perera, Anand Unnikrishnan, Nandini Puranik, Neelama (Neel) Anala, Jessica Thormann,Assoc Prof Barry O’Mahony , Chiara Robinson, Pattereeya Pratumtip, Vansh Vardhan, Pimolpun Ponglertnapakorn. Varin Sarpal, Naveen Angaru.VICTORIA UNIVERSITY7

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGDREAMING A ‘VILLAGE’ TO LIFE“I will never forget seeing how content thechildren and their ‘mamas’ are. Of coursethey would like more, but they make do withwhat they have and they are happier thanmost people in our society who have so muchmore than them,” Lilith said.The children’s ‘village’, which is being builtin Sinon, is named Kesho Leo (Swahili for‘tomorrow today’) and is FWS’s first project.Building at the three-acre site was just underway when Lilith arrived.Children and staff form a ‘50’ in front of a section of the village. The number represents the final push to encourage 50 people to donate $2,000each to fund the construction of which 12 people have donated thus far.Being part of a project to build an eco-friendly and sustainable villagefor women, children and orphans has given Lilith Krueger (BBusTourism Management 2005) and Rebecca Krings (BBus Tourism andEvent Management 2006) a new perspective on life.Both Lilith and Rebecca spent three monthseach in Arusha, Tanzania (in East Africa),volunteering with not-for-profit organisationFood Water Shelter (FWS), which aimsto build early learning children’s villagesproviding health, education and socialfacilities in developing countries.Lilith saidLaughter can be lucrativeBefore leaving to volunteer in Africa,Lilith and Rebecca raised $4,000towards the Kesho Leo project witha comedy night which they called‘Chekesha’ (Swahili for ‘to makesomeone laugh’).the experience had a profound impact onhow she views Western life.“The hospitality of Tanzanian peopleand their willingness to give withoutasking anything in return has left a hugeimpression on me.Klimczak, Mark Butler and DaveGrant and MC Geoff Paine – allgenuinely contributed lots of time tothe event by meeting up with us on aregular basis during the event leadupand even scored some air time forus on Gold FM to promote the night,”she said.“It was a great feeling to walk on thestructures that had already been built and startdreaming them to life – imagining where thekids will be learning, playing and interactingwith other locals who have come for trainingon environmentally sustainable farming orthe like… Picturing the mamas cooking inthe huge kitchen, preparing the food for theirchildren and the orphans they have taken onas their own,” she said.As a volunteer leader, Lilith was responsiblefor organising the volunteer activities –everything from deciding what to buy withkitty money to leading fortnightly meetingsand facilitating communication betweenin-country managers and volunteers. She alsodeveloped a policies and procedures manualand undertook risk assessment for FWS, tomake sure volunteers have an enjoyable andsafe experience in Tanzania.“In the afternoons I also looked after thechildren, playing with them and teaching themsimple English, and I taught the labourers whowere building Kesho Leo basic, work-relatedEnglish – starting with naming tools andgoing from there.”Rebecca said: “The comedy nightwas a great success and the moneywe raised went directly towards thebuilding needs for Kesho Leo.”Four fabulous corporate comedianswho performed – Ben Price, MikeRebecca said organising thefundraiser had given her an evenstronger connection to the Kesho Leoproject and was just the beginningof what she hoped would be a longassociation with FWS.8 VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGFoodWaterShelterFWS was established by fiveAustralian women who met inTanzania in 2003 while volunteeringat different schools.Sarah Therre, Olga Junek (VU academic), Lilith Krueger and Rebecca Krings share the limelight at the fundraising comedy night.Lilith said this was her most rewardingexperience: “To see how eager they were tolearn English and how respectful they werewith each other in class, made my teachingsessions a special time of the day. And itwas great feedback to be told that they werepractising their English on-site and quizzingeach other on the new words,” she said.On Lilith’s return, Rebecca travelled toTanzania to continue the work on Kesho Leo.Rebecca said volunteering in Africa hadenabled her to escape the Western Worldwhere most people seem to be caught up intheir own little lives, and pushed her out of her“comfort zone” to experience a completelydifferent life – different culture, differentpeople, different life standards and morals.She said working in a corporate environmentas a conference manager, had particularlyencouraged her to “get out there” and seehow people who live a simple life can stillbe happy. For Rebecca, going to Africa wasa “clash of two worlds”.“In one world, people complain about acrappy meal served on a business class seaton their way to Europe from Australia, and inanother world people don’t even complainwhen they haven’t been able to find anyfood at all.”FWS vice president Kelsey Wilson saidthe graduates’ approach to volunteeringwas very inspirational.“Rebecca and Lily are two very dynamic andimpressive women and FWS feels very luckyto have them on board as volunteers.“Volunteers need to be flexible and openminded.Volunteering in a developingcountry is an extremely rewardingexperience, but it is also quite a challenge. Itcan be unpredictable and a volunteer needsto adapt and be able to ‘go with the flow’,”Kelsey said.Both girls agree, volunteering on the Kesho Leoproject has changed their lives and thoroughlyrecommend the experience to others.Lilith said: “Having been there at thebeginning of the Kesho Leo house mama’smeetings, I can already see a change insome of the children. I hope that teachingthem new skills such as English, and helpingimprove their gross and fine motor skills, willgive them confidence and pave the way fora different kind of learning in the future.”Vice president Kelsey Wilson saidthe Kesho Leo village was one ofmany FWS hoped to build to providehousing for vulnerable women,their children and orphans. Shesaid the women receive training tobecome ‘house mothers’ and live inthe ‘village’ with their own children,providing a family environment forother orphaned children.She said a vital aspect of the‘children’s village’ was its eco-friendlydesign and practice as environmentalsustainability was a relatively newconcept to the area.“The people in Sinon tend to havemore of a ‘carpe diem’ approach toresources rather than conserving forthe future. We knew that we neededto demonstrate eco-friendly practicesfor the community to want to learn.“A great example of this is therainwater collection system; the areaoften lacks access to clean, safewater so we have set up a largeroofing area and rainwater tanks.The rest of the community notices thatKesho Leo has water, they will bekeen to learn how!”Kelsey said FWS was also settingKesho Leo up as a communitycentre that would run classes for thewider community about eco-friendlysystems, and would offer classes inhealth, small business, social skillingand leadership.If you would like to supportFoodWaterShelter, or wouldlike more information onvolunteering, visit thewebsite at www.foodwatershelter.org.auVICTORIA UNIVERSITY9

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGStudents learn from the expertsAn initiative of the Schoolof Hospitality, Tourism andMarketing has enabled studentsto test drive their learning withindustry professionals.The Students Present to Industry program,which ran for the first time last year andis now a regular event, provides selectedgroups of students with the opportunity topresent a business plan, developed duringtheir studies, to a panel of people from thetourism and events industry.Events and toursim lecturers, Olga Junek, DrLeonie Lockstone and Dr Judith Mair, believethe initiative enhances student learning byexposing them to feedback from peopleactually working in the industry, rather thanjust presenting to a classroom environment.“Students are selected on the merit of theirbusiness plan for a hypothetical event andpresenting to the panel enables them toget industry feedback on their creativityand the feasibility and practicality of theirplanned event.The program also provides students with theopportunity to network with members of theindustry in a small, intimate setting. Establishingcontacts in their desired field in this way alsopromotes career development.Representatives on the initial panel includedmanagers of public and private venues,Students present business plans to the panel of people from the tourism and events industry. From left to right: Paul Byrne (Federation Square),Lisa price (MCC) and Rebecca Krings (The Conference Box).conference organisers and chief executiveofficers. The members where also chosen toreflect differing levels of experience and arange of event and tourism types.After the presentations, the students receiveda certificate of participation signed byeach member of the panel and enjoyedrefreshments and the opportunity to furthernetwork with the industry panel one-to-one.The program was so well received that it isnow run in each semester for students whoundertake the subject Meetings, Conventionsand Events (BHO3494).Olga explained that we had a lot of positivefeedback from students, the panel and alsoother staff members. It’s a great opportunityfor students to be put in a situation similar towhat they will come across when they areactually working in the event management ortourism industries.The Students Present to Industry program alsoprovides a good opportunity for VictoriaUniversity to implement its commitment to‘Learning in the Workplace’ (Liwpc).Finally, Olga explained that “Even thoughonly a few groups out of the course arechosen to take part in the actual presentations,all students have the same opportunityto produce an assignment that could beconsidered for this event”.STEPPING UP TO THE PODIUM for A DayAs VU continues to evolve as a ‘new school ofthought’, the School of HT&M has introduceda new way to engage industry and communitypartners in hospitality, tourism, marketing andevents, to share their expertise with studentsand staff.The ‘Professor for a Day’ program, held for thefirst time in 2007, brought Chairman of QuestServiced Apartments Paul Constantinou into theuniversity to lecture to students.As chairman of Australasia’s largest and mostsuccessful operator in the serviced apartmentsector, Mr Constantinou raised a number ofissues, including the importance of identifyinga market need, developing and supporting abrand, growing a business through franchising,and the need to develop close relationshipswith key decision makers. He also saidmarkets are becoming more discerning andemphasised the need to research trends tobetter meet market needs.Quest Serviced Apartments has long been asupporter the School of HT&M; providingplacements for Work Integrated Learning(WIL) students during their Co-operativeEducation Year of their undergraduatedegrees and being the start of successfulcareers for many HT&M graduates.If you are interested in the‘Professor for a Day’ scheme,please contact the School ofHT&M on email htm@vu.edu.auPaul Constantinou (left) receives his award from Michael Pearlman(VU academic).10 VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGMIDDLE EAST beckons MohamedVictoria University graduateMohamed Shihata (BBus TourismManagement 2007) is capitalisingon his Egyptian heritage.Although Australian-born, Mohamedspent much of his childhood in what heconsiders his homeland, Egypt, and withhis studies behind him, now plans to sharehis knowledge and love of this countryrunning his own tour business.Mohamed already has some experience,with three similar tours under his belt inconjunction with the Egyptian Ministryof Youth and Sports. These tours haveprovided expatriates and Australiansof Egyptian origin with opportunities toexplore their middle eastern roots.“I have taken many people, some oldand some young, on tour and the bestthing about taking tours is seeing peopleenjoy the Egyptian hospitality and beingproud of representing my mother country,”Mohamed said.Mohamed began his studies doing theAdvanced Diploma Tourism Managementat Victoria University’s Werribee Campusand later pursued his Bachelor of BusinessTourism Management. He said his studiesMohammed at left ,in blue shirt, leads a tour group at the temple of Kom Ombo, just north of Aswan, Egypt and built in early second century BC.at Victoria University prepared him for life inthe business world.“The economics and law subjects camein handy when it came to setting up andrunning my own business. But my studieshave also helped me create a strategic planto prepare for the future and increased myhope that I can achieve my goals.Mohamed said his plans began long beforehe graduated and he encourages otherstudents to work hard and start planningtheir goals as early as possible.“Try to get as much experience as early asyou can, even during your studies, becauseit could pay off in the future. I wish all VUstudents the best of luck with their studies,”he said.He said the most challenging thing abouttaking people on tour in Egypt was beingon time!”It’s really hard to have everyone adhereto the schedules, but I get around thisby making sure everyone is able to becontacted by mobile, and I’m not shy aboutorganising the hotels to do bell calls andwake up calls to ensure everyone is on time.“Having an Egyptian background is goingto help enormously with my business. Ihave a lot of knowledge about the placesin the country that major tour companiesdon’t know about. And of course, havinglots of friends and family in the tourismbusiness means being able to get verycompetitive rates!” Mohamed said.Mohammed contemplates Pompey Pillar, the tallest ancientmonument in Alexandria, Egypt.“I’m working on being able to do my firsttour in January 2009 and possibly continueinto the Egyptian summer during the year.The tours will be open to anyone and willusually be 21 days of exploring Cairo,Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada,Luxor, Aswan and, of course, cruises on theNile river.If you are interested incustom-made or group toursof Egypt or would like moreinformation on Mohamed’sjourney, contact him on+61411 774 402 or emailMohamed.shihata@gmail.comVICTORIA UNIVERSITY 11

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGMICHAEL GOES GREEN – researcherleading the world in green marketingThere’s no doubt about it – theissue of climate change andconcerns about human impacton the environment are hottingup, literally. And marketing, likemany industries, is increasinglyexploring ways to contribute tothe ‘green’ movement.Environmental, or ‘green’, marketing has beenslowly taking form and, over the last decadeor so, interest and research in this area hasalso increased.Professor Michael Polonsky, who has beenpart of Marketing at VU for 7 years, wasrecently named among the five top greenmarketing researchers in the world 1 and hasbeen leading this research since the early1990s. He became aware of a gap in theresearch, which has driven his work now formore than a decade.“As firms started to use environmentalmarketing, it became clear that academicresearch exploring the issue was notextensive. While early research focusedon consumer behaviour and segmentation,there was less work looking at broaderstrategic implications of green marketing,”Michael said.Michael defined green marketing as “thefacilitation of exchange that increases value toorganisations and consumers while minimisingnegative environmental impact”. He said theconcept had become increasingly important asmore and more people now realised that theenvironment is not an infinite resource.“The understanding that human behaviourimpacts on the natural environment hasdefinitely increased and this is translatinginto consumers being willing to modify theirconsumption to be more responsible,”Michael said.But wanting to change is not always enough– being able to communicate environmentalinformation effectively is an essential partof the process of change, identified byMichael’s research.He said: “Some of our research showed thatconsumers don’t necessarily understand all theenvironmental information they are given andin some cases they misinterpret the informationprovided. So it is essential that marketingcompanies develop clear, key messages.”Michael also said research had revealed thatmarketing companies need to rethink what theydo and how they do it.“Increasingly, marketing companies arecollaborating with environmental groups andtraditional advisers, to enable more innovativemarketing solutions. For example, creatingvalue for consumers may mean they don’tactually purchase the goods, rather they rentthem, thus reducing production and maximisingthe use of the embodied energy – the energyused to create the product in the first place.”Michael said interest in green marketing hadgradually become more integrated into awider cross-section of areas and believed moreresearchers were recognising the importance ofthe concept.“Green marketing is being integrated intoresearch in more complicated ways than hasbeen explored in the past. It is also beingexamined in a broader cross-section ofacademic disciplines and is no longer simply abusiness issue.“When I first starting working in this area,green marketing was considered a ‘fringe’issue. As it has developed over the years, it isrewarding to think that my work has made acontribution to that development.”Green marketing is also known as‘environmental’, ‘ecological’, or ‘sustainable’marketing, ‘green product’ or ‘greencommunication’. Whatever you call it,sustainability, reducing negative impacts onthe environment, and raising awareness ofclimate change issues, will no doubt becomea defining factor in all successful marketingcompanies in the not-too-distant future.And for Michael? By his own admission, he’llbe focusing on green marketing for a while yet.“Unfortunately, I am a bit of a workaholic.I tend to like to explore interesting issuesand once I start a project, I like to ensureit gets finished, even if this lasts overseveral years.”1 Chamorro, A, Rubio, S & Miranda FJ (in press), ‘Characteristicsof Research on Green Marketing’, Business Strategy and theEnvironment, Wiley Interscience, ,DOI: 10.1002/bse.571.Michael discusses green research issues with (from left) Dr Emma Wong, Dr Pandora Kay and Dr Judi Inglis.Unfortunately, Professor Polonskyhas moved on from VictoriaUniversity to begin a new chapterwith Deakin University. The Schoolof HT&M wishes to thank Michaelfor his commitment and drive overthe seven and a half years ofservice and wish him much successfor the future.12 VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGInternational climate researchcomes to Victoria UniversityProfessor DeLacy comes to Victoria Universityfrom a strong background in sustainabilityresearch. He was Dean of the Faculty ofLand and Food systems at University ofQueensland, where he headed up a newfaculty combining agricultural, food science,and natural resources research and educationalactivities. He then spent 10 years as CEO ofthe National Sustainable Tourism CooperativeResearch Centre.While in this role, along with Griffith University’sProfessor Ashley Scott, Professor DeLacydeveloped ‘Earthcheck’, a sustainabilitybenchmarking tool which applies to morethan 20 different tourism sectors, such asaccommodation, tours, and attractions.Professor DeLacy, fourth from the right in the back row, at Changqing Nature Reserve in Western China, home of the Giant Panda.Victoria University is pleasedto announce the appointmentof Professor Terry DeLacyas a Professorial Fellow inSustainable Tourism andEnvironmental Policy in theCentre of Tourism andServices Research.Professor DeLacy will lead research into theimpact of climate change on tourism.“Victoria University has a long history in tourismand hospitality education and has selectedthis as one of its key foci for research. I amlooking forward to working with colleagues inthe centre to build its international reputation,”Professor DeLacy said.He said the biggest issue facing globaltourism is climate change as travel andtourism generally, but particularly transport,are major contributors to greenhouse gasemissions.“Aviation is a focal point – not only throughthe production of greenhouse gases, but,because planes deliver these gases at highaltitudes, they have an increased impact(the radiative forcing effect).Professor DeLacy believes that as climatechange worsens, tourism demand patterns willinevitably alter.“Ethical considerations may induce tourists toswitch from long haul to short haul destinations.Some of the policies being considered bydeveloped economies, and being advocatedby various concerned green groups on limitinggreenhouse gas emissions from aviation, couldpotentially have devastating impacts on longhaul markets. This will have most impact onleast developed, poorest countries,” he said.According to Professor DeLacy, many lessdeveloped countries depend heavily ontourism income. He said 46 of the poorest 49countries rely on international tourism as theirprimary source of foreign exchange earnings.“Implementing such aviation policies couldseriously hinder the poverty reduction targetsand associated strategies contained in the UNmillennium development goals – the poorestcountries will suffer once again,” ProfessorDeLacy said.And, as he points out, ironically, greenhousegas production per person in these economiesis a tiny fraction of that produced by individualsin rich nations.“Earthcheck underpins the internationalsustainability certification scheme calledGreenglobe, which is being used in more than50 countries. Earthcheck and Greenglobebenchmark and certify a company’s ordestination’s sustainability. Earthcheckalso calculates companies or destinations’greenhouse gas production and sets targets fortheir reduction,” he said.“Benchmarking a tourist enterprise withEarthcheck helps it implement bettermanagement practices while improving thequality of the environment in which it operates.It also helps organisations reduce costs in areaslike energy consumption, waste productionand resource conservation by monitoring andreporting outputs.“Earthcheck also demonstrates to consumersthat an organisation is serious about itsenvironmental, social and economicperformance,” he said.Professor DeLacy said he was lookingforward to his position at Victoria Universityas a means of pursuing research programsand bringing together researchers in tourismand sustainability.“I hope we can work together to developresearch which addresses these key globalproblems for world tourism. I hope mysignificant international experience will enableme to bring the many colleagues I haveworked with over the years into partnershipwith centre researchers,” he said.VICTORIA UNIVERSITY 13

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGbeing a ‘NERD’ pays offHeather receives her award from Osman Duman, president of SkalMelbourne, attended by Michael Pearlman (VU academic)Returning to study at age 26 hasits benefits – and its challenges –and Heather Wilson (BBus EventManagement, 2007) is a testamentto both.Heather’s concerted efforts and high levelof achievement were acknowledged by anaward of $1,000 from Skal International– a world-wide association of travel andtourism professionals.She was among several students nominated forthe 2007 award from final year undergraduatestudents and Work Integrated Learningstudents, in hospitality, tourism and events.Heather said the prize meant a lot toher and was a “huge surprise”, but alsomade her realise she was quite a “nerd”,having dedicated her efforts to her studiessometimes at the expense of having asocial life.“Given this is my second time at universityand that it hasn’t been easy going backto study, its been such a boost to have myefforts recognised. The selection criteriawas based on academic performance andany extra involvement with the university– so things like being a mentor foraccounting and going to open day werealso part of it,” she said.According to the Skal InternationalAustralia website (www.skal.org.au), theassociation, founded in Paris in 1932 bytravel trade managers, brings together allsectors of the travel and tourism industry.Its membership includes the industry’smanagers and executives who meet atlocal, national and international congressin an environment of friendship to discusssubjects of common interest.The association is now known worldwideas Skal International and, from its modestbeginning, now numbers almost 25,000members in more than 500 clubs throughoutmore than 80 countries.Heather joined other members of Skal andTourism Lecturer at Victoria University MichaelPearlman at the monthly Skal luncheon at theWindsor Hotel to receive her prize. She saidher nerves almost got the better of her as shewaited to give her acceptance speech.“I found it hard to eat my lunch beforespeaking I was so nervous. But luckily,it went really well and everyone wasextremely friendly.Heather now works for an events andtravel company in Melbourne as an eventcoordinator and has been in the role foralmost two years. She helps organise eventssuch as expos, conferences and incentivesfor a range of clients.She said her studies at Victoria Universitydefinitely provided her with a “foot in thedoor” when it came to securing employmentin the industry.And what did she do with her prize money?“Receiving it was such a surprise that I’ve justbeen really boring and put it in the bank!“I do hope to travel and work overseas atsome stage, so this has contributed to mysavings,” she said.working with othersIn September last year, VictoriaUniversity and Monash Universityhosted a round table discussion onthe topic of promoting productiveresearch collaboration. Almost 30participants engaged in discussionof collaboration between academicsand with industry partners.Professor Brian King from the Office of thePro Vice-Chancellor (Institutional Services) atVictoria University chaired the discussion withthree guest speakers: Professor Tom Baum(University of Strathclyde), Professor Leo Jago(Victoria University) and Professor Betty Weiler(Monash University).Professor Baum discussed the merits ofcollaboration between academics andespecially how Early Career Researchers(ECRs) can gain by pro-actively linking withestablished researchers from around the world.Professor Jago (from Victoria University’sCentre for Tourism and Services Research)focused on the link between academicresearch and industry application. He notedthat although the two groups generally havedifferent demands, appreciation by industryof academic rigour in research is growing.Professor Jago also noted an increasedidentification by academics that industryprovides much more than short-term projectsand that relationships and networks can beof much greater benefit.Professor Weiler (Director of MonashUniversity’s Tourism Research Unit) furtherdiscussed the relationships she has withindustry partners and described some ofthe lessons she has learnt – one of whichwas for ECRs to be open and realistic earlyin talks regarding project expectationsand proposed outcomes for industry andthe academic. She reinforced the valueof relationships with industry rather than aseries of projects – a successful industrypartnership develops a mutually beneficialrelationship with outcomes to each muchgreater than project reports.Questions were asked by many of the ECRsto gain further insights in developing andfacilitating relationships both with colleaguesfrom around the world and with industry.14VICTORIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGYou say goodbye and I say helloThe School of HT&M welcomes the following new staff and says goodbye to another.Dr Albert Assaf– Lecturer in hospitalityDr Emma Wong– Lecturer in hospitalityAlexander Josiassen– Lecturer in marketingLebanon born Albert was appointed to his newrole in February 2008. As well as lecturing, hewill coordinate hospitality courses and conductresearch in hospitality and tourism.“I’m working on enhancing my students’ criticalthinking and decision-making skills. I am willingto engage my students in a practical-basedteaching approach,” he said.Albert completed postgraduate and PhD studiesat University of Western Sydney whileworking as a sessional lecturer, teachingand assisting in coordinating differentmanagement and quantitative related subjects.A dedicated teacher, Albert says educationis what interests him most in life: “I am verypassionate about improving my research andteaching abilities. My goal is to produce originalresearch that can contribute to the field ofknowledge in the hospitality and tourism area.”As a Gen Y-er, like many of her students,Emma hopes to understand their needsbetter and communicate with them on thesame ‘frequency’.She came to Australia in 2004 from HongKong to do her PhD at the University ofNew South Wales and completed herthesis on how south-east Asian governmentscollaborate in tourism development.Emma said she appreciated VictoriaUniversity’s established reputation in tourismand hospitality: “As my first job after my PhD,it is a great start to my academic career.”However, things may have gone differently –Emma was an extra on the Channel 7 dramaseries All Saints which she said was goodfun, but not a career move.Alexander was appointed to Lecturerin Marketing at the beginning of2008 and coordinates and lectures inInternational Marketing and Market Planningand Strategy.”I have enjoyed meeting so manyinteresting people, both students and staff”,he said. Alexander has previously taught inDenmark and at the University of Melbourne.He is passionate about teaching and aidingstudents to learn for life.After completing an MBA from Aarhus Schoolof Business, Denmark, Alexander worked ininternational management for several yearsbefore pursuing further studies. He is soon toreceive a PhD from the University of Melbourne.Alexander’s main research interests are in theareas Country-of-Origin and SD-logic. He hashad several journal and conference articlespublished in these areas. He said:“I want to do research with impact, researchthat makes a difference in the way individualsand organisations think and act marketing.”Prof Ian Priestly– Co-ordinator in hospitalityAfter 34 years with Victoria University,Professor Ian Priestly’s role as educator,developer, mentor, strategist and theoccasional entertainer, draws to a close.Prof. Priestly has been integral to the School’sdevelopment and growth; from the days ofFootscray Institute of Technology (FIT), whenas the first Head of Department of Hospitalityand Administrative Studies, he managed jointprojects with several overseas institutions.Prof. Priestly has also led the developmentof various teaching and learning materialsfor undergraduate and postgraduate studies,including ‘TouriSIM’ – a tourism managementbusiness simulation used for 12 yearsin Hospitality Facilities Planning andDevelopment which is taught in Melbourne,Hong Kong and Germany.VU thanks Prof. Priestly for his commitmentand dedication to the teaching and learningof thousands of graduates and wishes himwell in his retirement.Prof. Ian Priestly farewells colleagues (from left) Aimée Kloeth,Nele Auermann, Lailanie Barthel and Birte Krengel.VICTORIA UNIVERSITY 15

SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY, TOURISM & MARKETINGTHE THIRD DEGREE ALISON HAWKEAlison Hawke – continuously learning from role modelsand leaders in the industry.Education: BBus Events Management &Marketing, currently enrolled.Born: Lilydale, VictoriaLives: Mooroolbark (eastern suburbs ofMelbourne)Current role:I am an events coordinator at Federation Square,having successfully reapplied for my position aftera four-month casual contract position in the role. Ihave already coordinated more than 40 events,including weekly book markets, concerts in theSquare, numerous promotional activities, medialaunches, charity events and a multicultural festival.Some of my daily duties include responding toface-to-face, telephone, email and written eventenquiries, meetings with clients and colleagues,organising quotes, organising logistics forevents, assessing event applications, creatingvenue agreements, conducting risk assessments,attending weekly operations meetings with theFederation Square team, meeting with tenantsand raising invoices for events held.How you got there:After completing VCE, I completed a Diplomaof Events Management and a Diploma ofTourism/Product Marketing at HolmesglenInstitute of TAFE. Realising I needed furtherskills, I later enrolled in Bachelor of Business(Events Management/Marketing) at VictoriaUniversity, Sunbury Campus. I still have two unitsto complete my degree and have deferred forfirst semester 2008 to settle in to my new role atFederation Square.As a result of my studies, I now really understandthe importance of planning, and have theconfidence and knowledge to research whatI don’t know and to think laterally to solveproblems or situations. My exam experiencesand subject deadlines strengthened my ability towork well under pressure and report writing skillshave been most useful.WHERE ARE THEY NOW?Dandeniya Arachchi Manoj K., BBus Marketing/Hospitality Management 2003 Duty Manager, BayviewInternational Hotels & Resorts, Melbourne, VicHandayani Rizki, MBus Tourism Management 1998,Deputy Director for Multilateral Cooperation, Ministry ofCulture & Tourism Jakarta, IndonesiaHawke Alison, BBus Marketing/EventManagement 2008, Events Coordinator FederationSquare,Melbourne, VicJane Astrid, BBus Tourism Management 2007, SeniorTravel Consultant, Flight Centre, Moonee Ponds, VicKent Emma, BBus Tourism Management 2007,Assistant Manager, Eureka Tower Melbourne, VicKrings Rebecca, BBus Tourism & EventManagement 2006, Volunteer, Food Water Shelter,Tanzania, East AfricaKrueger Lilith, BBus Tourism Management, 2005,Volunteer. Food Water Shelter Tanzania, East AfricaLunny Brooke, BBus Tourism Management 2007,Research Officer - TourismGold Coast City Council, GoldCoast, QldMaddock Mary, MBus Hospitality Management1994, Managing Director, Mary Maddock Consulting,Melbourne, VicMitton Katrina, BBus Hospitality/TourismManagement 2002, Sales ManagerEco Point Resorts,Sydney, NSWNtalianis Paula, BBus Catering & Hotel Management1990, Training ManagerCrown Towers and PromenadeHotel, Melbourne, VicPalombo Steven, BBus Travel & Tourism Management1998, Marketing ManagerTiger Airways Australia,Melbourne, VicRichards Tiffany, BBus Catering & HotelManagement 1995, Segment Manager - Leisure Market,V/Line Passenger Pty Ltd Melbourne, VicRodriguez Carolina, BBus Marketing/EventManagement 2006, Client Relationship Manager,Atlantic Group [v] Docklands, VicSeitel Sebastian, BBus Hospitality Management2005, Events Manager, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong,Hong KongShihata Mohamed, BBus Tourism Management2007, Managing Director, Cairo, EgyptSulaiman Rahmadhani (Danny), MBusTourism Management 2004, Director for Industrial &Trading Development, Aceh Development Agency,Aceh, IndonesiaThe Victoria University Bachelor of Business (EventManagement/Marketing) has been a perfectpreparation for my role with its mix of business,marketing and event-specific subjects and Iwould recommend it as an excellent pathway tostudents who want to work in the events industryin Melbourne.The University’s Work Integrated LearningProgram, which enabled me to work at differentevents and venues across a broad range of theevents industry, also helped prepare me well formy current role.Career influences:I am a warm, friendly person, love meetingpeople and being busy, and I have alwaysenjoyed attending all kinds of events, concertsand festivals. I wanted to build a career withlots of variety and interesting work to do in agreat environment, and where I could learn fromexperienced people the skills needed to make asuccess of the role. I thrive on challenges and amconstantly learning.I have been very fortunate to have the chanceto join the Federation Square team. I amcontinuously learning from some amazing rolemodels and leaders within the industry whoare always willing to provide guidance andshare their extensive knowledge andexperience with other team members.Thorne Kim, BBus Tourism Management2007, Events and Promotions Coordinator, MelbourneObservation Deck, Melbourne, VicWilliams Rebecca, BBus Marketing/TourismManagement 2006, Product & Planning Executive,Abercrombie & Kent Australia & New Zealand,St.Kilda, VicZou Judy (Wei), MBus Tourism Management 2007,Marketing Coordinator. Tourism Australia,Shanghai, ChinaGRADUATES!Do we have your email contact details?Do you receive the monthly VU AlumniEmail News? A typical issue includesimminent alumni events, conferencesand seminars, professional developmentprograms, short courses and employmentopportunities. It’s so easy to get on themailing list, simply email us atalumni@vu.edu.au16 VICTORIA UNIVERSITY