OPEN Council Minutes
23 May 2014 (2:2014)
-
Minutes of the Open session of the second meeting of the Council of the University of New England
for 2014 held at 10:30am, Friday 23rd May 2014, in the Council Room, Booloominbah.
1.
MEETING OPENING AND WELCOME COMMENTS
The Chancellor welcomed all present to the second meeting of Council for 2014 and acknowledged
new Council Member Mr Michael Kirk, who will fill the casual vacancy on Council created by the
graduation of Mr Ben Crough until October when the newly elected undergraduate Student
Representative is expected to commence. The Chancellor also welcomed Professor Faith Trent,
Deputy Vice-Chancellor to her first UNE Council meeting.
PRESENT
The Hon John Watkins (Chancellor and Chair)
Dr G Fox (Deputy Chancellor)
Prof Annabelle Duncan (Vice-Chancellor)
Prof N Reid (Chair of Academic Board)
Prof M Sims
Dr B Denman
Dr J Hobbs
Dr J van der Lee
Mr A Campbell
Mr K Dupé
Mr R Finch
Mr J Harris
Mr M Kirk
Ms Jan McClelland
Ms G Raby
IN ATTENDANCE
Prof F Trent (Deputy Vice-Chancellor)
Prof A Sheridan (Acting PVC A)
Prof H Daniel (PVC R)
Ms M Clarke (Chief Financial Officer)
Mr B Peet (Chief Legal and Governance Officer)
Mr R Irving (Acting Executive Director Operations)
Mrs G Price (Deputy University Secretary)
Mrs L Kettlestring (Secretariat Officer)
Mr D Schmude (Acting Director, UNELife)
Observers were present.
Two documents were tabled at the meeting
I. For Item 5.1: SportUNE Annual Report 2013
II. For General Business: Letter from Australian Online and External Students Association
Inc.
1.1
Welcome to Country
Council acknowledged the traditional inhabitants of this land called New England and
showed respect to Elders past and present.
1.2
* Apologies
Ms C Millis
1.3
* Council Member Conflict of Interest Disclosures
There were no declarations of conflicts of interest.
1.4
* Disclosed Register of Interest.
The Chancellor requested that Council Members keep their Register of Interest up to date –
providing details of any changes to the University Secretariat, including in between meetings.
1.5
Order of Business (including adoption of non-starred items)
The Chancellor asked that item 5.1 be discussed as the first item to allow for a presentation
by UNELife, and that in General Business Mr Hargreaves would address the letter which has
been tabled from Australian Online and External Students Association Inc.
The Council ACCEPTED the revised Order of Business.
The Council ACCEPTED that non-starred items be adopted.
2.
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
2.1
Confirmation of Minutes from meeting held on 20 March 2014.
The Chancellor noted that the Minutes of the meeting held on 20 March 2014 were approved
as a true and correct record via email on 17 April 2014. These minutes are available for
viewing in the Council reading room.
2.2
Matters Arising
There were no matters arising from these minutes.
Open Council Minutes 23 May 2014
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3.
LEADERSHIP REPORTS
3.1
* Chancellor’s Report #14108
The Chancellor spoke about the great work being undertaken by the University on an ongoing
basis and the infrastructure and skills in evidence at UNE. He spoke of a recent visit to Smart
Farm and to the Herbarium, in both cases impressed with the enthusiasm of the academy for
their work and the facilities and learning opportunities UNE has on offer for students. The
Chancellor encouraged Council Members to visit Smart Farm and other facilities should the
opportunity arise, to see these first hand.
ACTION: Tour of Smart Farm facility for Council to be arranged by the Secretariat.
The Chancellor noted that it was pleasing to see that UNESA, which had experienced pressure
during a period of establishment and change, has support from University and is now growing
in confidence including in its role of managing TuneFM, the second hand bookshop and the
student advocacy program.
The Chancellor acknowledged that this was a critical time for UNE, with the University working
through internal changes, dealing with sector and external changes and with elections and
ministerial appointments also due for Council. The Chancellor encouraged all present to
maintain the co-operation and collegiate approach that Council has enjoyed over the past
twelve months, to provide an environment supporting good governance.
Council NOTED the Chancellor’s Report to Council #14108.
3.2
* Vice-Chancellor’s Report #14109
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Annabelle Duncan, noted that the results from the ballot of
professional staff regarding the proposed Enterprise Agreement had been received this
morning – with over 300 responses and with 91% of respondents voting “yes”.
Meetings with academic staff regarding their Enterprise Agreement continue. The Deputy ViceChancellor, Professor Faith Trent, has been involved in recent meetings and will continue to
work with the academic staff representatives on outstanding issues.
The Vice-Chancellor spoke to part 1.3 of her report regarding ATSI Engagement Initiatives in
which UNE is involved. Members queried the key issues for success to support these initiatives,
with the Vice-Chancellor confirming that building the confidence of ATSI students by providing
a safe and welcoming environment, was important. This could mean further forums/meetings
to answer questions, and implementing further programs for staff regarding cultural
awareness.
Council NOTED the Vice-Chancellor’s Report #14108.
Open Council Minutes 23 May 2014
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3.3
* Academic Board Chair’s Report #14110
Chair of the Academic Board, Professor Nick Reid, requested that the items and their
supporting papers relating to rescission of degrees be considered in the confidential session
and removed from the open papers.
ACTION: Move rescission matters to confidential meeting and request University Secretariat
redact relevant names and courses in the Open Council Papers.
Professor Reid noted that the consultation draft of the proposed new Higher Education
Standards Framework had been released for discussion. Clarification is being sought as to
whether the University’s re-registration audit in 2016 will be under the current or new
framework. Some of the proposals involve cutting red tape and bureaucracy by reducing
TEQSA paperwork, and increasing the maximum interval between external course reviews to
every 7 years.
Professor Reid also confirmed that the preferred model for the trimester academic year,
endorsed by the Academic Board in April, was 15 weeks in Trimesters 1 and 2, and 14 weeks
in Trimester 3, comprising three trimesters, each of 11 timetabled teaching weeks.
Members discussed concerns about the shorter trimester timeframes and the issues for staff
and students including where practical experience was needed to complete a unit and where
students may need to work part-time to support their studies. One example provided was
that there were limited practical experience opportunities for Education students in Trimester
3.
Members and management also noted the need for the University to become more nimble
and flexible in course offerings and to consider offering core subjects in Trimester 3 and
allowing students more options to study full-time in each trimester, rather than just in
Trimesters 1 and 2.
ACTION: Chair of Academic Board to consider options for further discussion of Trimester date
issues.
1) Council NOTED the Chair of Academic Board report #14110
2) APPROVED the Principal Dates for 2016 in accordance with the preferred model for the
trimester academic year of 15 weeks (T1, T2) and 14 weeks (T3), each trimester
consisting of 11 timetabled teaching weeks;
3) APPROVED the graduation lists for students who completed their studies at the end of
T3, 2013 to have their awards conferred in absentia;
4) NOTED the election of Professor Brian Sindel as Academic Board representative to the
Higher Degrees, Titles and Tributes Committee;
cont…
Open Council Minutes 23 May 2014
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5) NOTED:
a. The Last Date to Withdraw Without Academic Penalty (WN) commencing
Trimester 2 2014, should be the Monday of week 8 in Trimesters 1 and 2, and
the Monday of week 7 in Trimester 3. For year-long units the last date to
withdraw without academic penalty should be the same date as withdrawal
without academic penalty for the second of the two trimesters. For full-time
Honours the last date to withdraw without academic penalty should be set
approximately 75% (the closest Monday) into the teaching period and for parttime Honours the last date to withdraw without academic penalty should be set
approximately 75% (closest Monday) into the teaching period in the second
year;
b. that the Last Date to Withdraw Without Academic Penalty is added to the
University’s Principles for Principal Dates;
6) NOTED The Intensive Schools Policy and Guidelines for Unit Coordinators on Intensive
Schools;
7) NOTED the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy to Salih Jabir Wajid Al-Kadher
(S/N 220040985) in absentia; and
8) NOTED the award of the degree of Master of Arts, to Peter Ardill (S/N 220020815) in
absentia.
4.
STRATEGIC MATTERS
There were no strategic matters.
5.
GENERAL ITEMS
5.1.
Report from UNELife #14283
Mr David Schmude, acting Director of UNELife explained that UNELife is a department within
UNE. Services UNE and SportUNE retain their company structures – and report to the Director
of UNELife and a management committee (the latter is being established with membership to
include three UNE Management staff as well as a manager of Services UNE and SportUNE).
The acting Director of UNELife outlined some of the key goals for UNELife including a)
developing a hospitality master plan; b) improving quality and service; c) increasing the
offering in Food and Beverage; and d) capital investment to revitalise aging infrastructure.
The acting Director UNELife highlighted some of the challenges arising from a short trading
period of currently around 22 weeks over Trimester 1 and 2. He noted that if the University is
working towards a full student offering in Trimester 3 (ie. both on-campus and online courses)
then this would extend trading time significantly. He noted that the student food and
beverage market is price sensitive and also that previous investments in infrastructure
Open Council Minutes 23 May 2014
5
development had had positive results, for example ultilisation of SportUNE facilities had
increased by 130%.
The SportUNE annual report (tabled) shows participation rates at UNE are now some of the
highest of any university, and showcased the growth achieved in the leadership program for
students and the elite athlete program.
The acting Director UNELife also spoke about initiatives to bring together UNELife and UNE’s
core business of education – via for example QuickSmart in Sport and opportunities for
education and nursing students at the Yarm Gwanga child care facility.
A feasibility study is underway to develop the Belgrave cinema and plans for expanding the
Yarm Gwanga child care centre facility are in development. Regarding Yarm Gwanga, current
places are oversubscribed and there is need to build capacity to allow more occasional care
places for students needing childcare.
Mr Schmude explained UNE Life’s plans to create further opportunities to connect with the
Community, via shared facilities such as SportUNE and the Belgrave cinema and joint
initiatives with the Armidale Council such as “The Coach” reality TV rugby league program, to
commence filming at SportUNE and around Armidale and region in October.
Council Members’ financial questions regarding UNELife were agreed to be discussed in the
confidential session of Council.
Council NOTED the Report from UNELife #14283
5.2.
Chair Report - Finance #14111
Council NOTED the Chair of Finance Committee’s Open Report #14111
5.3.
Chair Report - Audit and Risk #14112
Council NOTED the Chair of Audit and Risk Committee’s Open Report #14112.
5.4.
Chair Report - Infrastructure #14113
Council NOTED the Chair of Infrastructure Committee’s Open Report #14113.
5.5.
Media Update #14114
Council NOTED the Media Update, report #14114.
Open Council Minutes 23 May 2014
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5.6.
Events Update #14280
Council NOTED the Events Update, report #14280.
6.
GENERAL BUSINESS
6.1
Australian Online and External Students Association Inc (AOESA) Letter
Mr Colin Hargreaves spoke to a number of items within the letter from Australian Online and
External Students Association Inc (tabled). Mr Hargreaves asked Council to consider a
referendum for students regarding whether they would like a research students association or
an external students’ association.
6.2
Council Retreat
The Chancellor noted that he was proposing to move the Council Retreat from 18th
September to Tuesday 9th December. The Christmas dinner function will be held that Tuesday
evening and there will be Committee meetings the following day.
7.
MEETING FINALISATION
7.1
Work Plan
Council NOTED the Open 2014 Work Plan.
7.2
Next Meeting
The next meeting of Council is scheduled for Friday, 25 July 2014 at 10.30am and will be held
in the Council Room at Booloominbah.
7.3
Meeting Close
The Chancellor closed the Open session at 12.00 noon. He thanked all observers for their
attendance and opened the confidential session of Council.
Attachment 1: SportUNE Annual Report 2013
Attachment 2: Letter from Australian Online and External Students Association Inc.
_________________________
The Hon John Watkins
Chancellor
Open Council Minutes 23 May 2014
1 July 2014
Date
7
Printed May 2014
Annual Report 2013
CEO’s Report
2
Committee & Office Bearers
3
Honorary Life Members
4
Staff
5
Centre Operations
6
University Sport
9
Blues & Awards
12
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
13
Club Activity
14
Community Engagement
16
C E O ’ s R e p or t
arrangement with the Eels as a result of management
problems within the club and their adoption of an
online sports betting agency called ‘UNIBET’ which
conveyed a possible association between gambling
and UNE.
Towards the end of 2013, SportUNE and Services
UNE were merged to ‘bundle’ together the services
provided by each controlled entity, so as to achieve a
more consistent and streamlined approach to services
and facilities at the University and strengthen student,
staff and community engagement. These businesses
include SportUNE, The Booloominbah Collection,
The Stro, Grind and Squeeze Cafe, Sleek Hair Studio,
Yarm Gwanga Childcare, Campus Essentials, and the
Belgrave Cinema.
SportUNE has had another successful year with a
strong focus on increasing memberships levels and
participation rates, which are already among the
highest of any Australian University, and also enhance
the facilities available to both UNE and the broader
community.
A highlight of 2013 was the recognition of the 75th
Anniversary of Sport at UNE. This significant milestone
was celebrated in conjunction with the University’s
Annual Sports Awards, at a black tie dinner held in the
new multipurpose hall at SportUNE. The evening was
attended by 220 guests, including UNE Chancellor
the Hon. John Watkins, UNE Vice Chancellor &
CEO, Professor Jim Barber, Federal Member for
New England, The Hon. Barnaby Joyce and State
Member for Northern Tablelands, Mr Adam Marshall,
along with past alumni, sports award winners, current
and past students. The Hon. Barnaby Joyce also
officially opened the recent capital developments. To
commemorate the occasion a timeline photo board
was established as a permanent feature in the centre,
illustrating some interesting facts and figures about
SportUNE’s history.
I would like to thank all SportUNE staff and our
outgoing Board members for their contribution to the
success of SportUNE in 2013.
David Schmude
CEO, SportUNE
Director, Sports &
Business Development Unit
The emphasis on developing partnerships between
UNE and sporting bodies was evident in 2013 with
the hosting of the Parramatta Eels in a week long preseason training camp and NRL Trial Match between
the Eels and the Newcastle Knights at the Bellevue
sports ground. This was the largest sporting event
ever hosted in Armidale and attracted a crowd of
over 5,200 people from NSW and Queensland. UNE’s
connection with the Eels was further strengthened
when the first Future Campus in Parramatta opened
to service the large number of distance education
students in Western Sydney. Regrettably UNE found
it necessary to withdraw from the sponsorship
Page 2
Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
comm i t t ee & o f f i ce bearers
SPORTUNE LTD – BOARD OF MANAGEMENT
The following Directors held office during the year
until the date of their resignation:
• Mr Kevin Dupé (Chair)
• Ms Emma Gillogly (resigned 2 Jan 2013)
• Mr Peter Enlund (resigned 1 Feb 2013)
• Ms Jayne Heagney (resigned 27 Mar 2013)
• Dr Claire Parker (resigned 10 July 2013)
• Mr David Schmude (resigned 13 Aug 2013)
• Dr Jack Hobbs (resigned 13 Aug 2013)
• Mr David Munday (resigned 13 Aug 2013)
The following Director was appointed during the year:
• Ms Charlotte Egan (appointed 27 Mar
2013 / Resigned 13 Aug 2013)
The following Director was appointed during the year
and continued as the Sole Director:
• Mr David Cushway (appointed 13 Aug 2013)
During 2013 the Company lodged with the Australian
Investments and Securities Commission to become
a Proprietary Limited Company wholly owned by the
University of New England (Parent Entity).
This saw the governance structure change to having
a sole director, being the University representative.
AUDITORS
The Audit Office of NSW
Level 15, 1 Margaret Street,
Sydney, NSW, 2000
LEGAL ADVISOR
Ms Ydeet Winter-Irving
THE BLUES COMMITTEE
• Dr Jack Hobbs
• Mr David Schmude
• Mr Brad King
• Mrs Jenny Williams
From top: O’Week Swimming Carnival 2014. Next: New cardio equipment.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
Page 3
ho n orary l i f e members
Mr S Flannagan (1954)
Dr C H Donovan (1992)
Professor R Duncan (1960)
Dr C E Reading (1992)
Dr P E Lush (1964)*
Mrs M M Corbett (1993)
Associate Professor J W McGarity (1964)
Dr R C Robertson-Cuninghame AO (1994)*
Dr J W Stevenson (1965)
Mr B J Maurer (1995)
Emeritus Professor Sir Zelman Cowen (1969)*
Mr R P Stahlhunt (1996)
Emeritus Professor P E H Barrett (1967)*
Dr R A Powell (1997)
Dr E FF Darling (1968)*
Mr M T McCarthy (2000)
Mr I L Dunn (1969)*
Mr G R Druitt (2000)
Mr J B McAlpine (1969)
Dr C Jones AO (2002)*
Professor E W R Barlow (1970)
Mr D E Sauer (2004)
Emeritus Professor W F Musgrave (1973)
Dr P E Fielding (2004)
Dr J K Pearson (1974)*
Mr B R Mitchell (2004)
Professor C A Sholl (1979)
Mr D V Clifton (2006)
Dr J M Stanley (1982)
Ms Karen Walker (2011)
Mr W J H Westerveld (1982)
Mr Stephen Griffith (2011)
Mr J D McRae (1985)
Mr Keith Finlayson (2011)
Dr B M Seppelt (1988)
Mr G A W Worsell (1988)
Mrs R Worsell (1989)
Mr L D Danieli (1989)
Mr W S B Wallace (1989)
Dr J E Hobbs (1990)
Dr J M Duck (1990)
Mr P D Corcoran OAM (1991)
Mr P Broughton (1991)
Page 4
*Deceased
Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
s ta f f
FULLTIME STAFF
CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM
FITNESS INSTRUCTORS
CEO, SportUNE & Director, Sports
Holly Brown
Lauren Bale
Business Development Unit (SBDU)
Paige Durham
Leanne Bell
David Schmude
Liam Edmunds
Holly Brown
Operations Manager
Kate Fitzgerald
Demian Coates-Scholl
Kathie Hunt
Justine Laverty
Julie Collins
Business Manager
Chris McGrath
Liam Edmunds
Ashley Clee
Dean McGrath
Sean Hannaford
Alex O’Connor
Lindy Hardman
Anneliese O’Sullivan
Susan Lennon
Charlotte Egan
Susan Mason
Jessica Gleeson
Kath McMillan
Nicholas Kelly
Theresa Mitchell
Matthew Tremayne
Holly Murphy
Administration Coordinator
Ben Bible
Finance & Staffing Coordinator
Ariane Mazzei
Sports Coordinator
Brad King
Maxine Ross
Gym & Group Fitness Coordinator
LIFEGUARDS
Cynthia Slade
Mally McCormack
Hayley Gollan
Breanna Smith
Executive Assistant to CEO &
Stephen Gollan
Casey Taylor
Director SBDU
Justine Laverty
Annette Traise
Jacqui Munday
Maja Popovic
Peter Traise
Customer Service Coordinator
Mitchell Shaw
Ella Williams
Rebecca Meikle
Andrew South
Allister Hamilton
Justine Laverty
Jamie Williams
Customer Service Assistants
Tamika Adamson
Allister Hamilton
Catherine Witten
GYM STAFF
Gemma Seaton
Liam Edmunds
Marketing & Media Assistant
Sean Hannaford
Tina Skipper
Chris McGrath
Grounds & Facility Coordinator
Terry Farrell
Grounds Assistants
Ronald Dennison
Patrick Hunt
Dean McGrath
Theresa Mitchell
CRÈCHE STAFF
Paige Durham
Tieri Doyle
Mariah Lockwood
Alison Simpson
Andrew South
CLIMBING WALL
Henry Archdale
SUPERVISORS
Jamie Williams
Robert McDowell
William Mazzei
April Mills-Thoms
Carol Lee
John Sue
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
Page 5
C E NT R E O P E R A TI O N S
Above left: Consett Davis playing fields 1962. Above right: SportUNE viewed from the road 2013.
In 2013 SportUNE retained its position as the market leader in the local and regional Health and Fitness Industry,
boasting over 300,000 centre visits in 2013.
Student and community memberships continued to grow steadily, with membership numbers up 18 per cent on
2012 figures and an 85 per cent increase on memberships since 2009. 2013 saw a 77 per cent increase in UNE
staff accessing salary sacrifice memberships compared to 2011. The increase in community membership numbers,
offered greater facility utilisation during the university term breaks.
As one of the top university sporting precincts in Australia, SportUNE continued to provide first class sporting
facilities for the University of New England and the wider community. Facilities were well utilised by a diverse
range of UNE groups, including sporting clubs, student groups, intercollegiate competitions and academic
practical sessions. Community organisations included local schools, regional and state school carnivals, gala days,
the Ascent Group, Healthy Highlanders Program, Freeman House and a bike specific training program especially
tailored for the ‘Tour de Rocks’ cancer charity ride participants.
Sport and fitness activities remained a popular pastime for the UNE community. The University’s elite student
athletes experienced success at local, national and international levels. UNE Students were well represented
on the Australian University Sport (AUS) platform with over 160 students participating in the Northern University
Games, the Australian University Games and other AUS sporting competitions.
In February 2013, UNE hosted the Parramatta Eels for a week-long pre-season training camp and an NRL trial
match at the Bellevue Rugby Oval against the Newcastle Knights. Over 5,000 people from throughout NSW and
interstate attended the event, making it the largest sporting event hosted in the region. The Parramatta Eels were
accommodated on campus and utilised the first class facilities at SportUNE and the Exercise and Sport Science
facilities, as a part of the sponsorship agreement between the Parramatta Eels and UNE.
FACILITY DEVELOPMENT AND CAPITAL WORKS
Construction of the academic precinct for the Exercise and Sports Science and sports related programs was
completed and operational in early 2013.
Refurbishment of the climbing wall and bouldering cave was also completed at this time, and the facility proved
to be very popular with both UNE students and community members. The Outdoor Adventure Club conducted a
number of ‘Come Try’ nights throughout 2013, which were very well supported and helped drive bookings.
Extensive rehabilitation of the Consett Davis Playing Fields took place in the latter part of 2013, which resulted
in an improved playing surface and an upgraded drainage system, offering greater opportunity for high level
sporting events in the future. Drainage improvements were also undertaken at the Bellevue Sporting Precinct.
SportUNE Gym celebrated the addition of new state-of-the-art cardio equipment, including twelve treadmills,
six cross trainers, four upright bikes and two recumbent bikes. This was made possible by the generous financial
Page 6
Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
C E NT R E O P E R A TI O N S
support of the Student Services Amenities Fee (SSAF).
A new pool inflatable was purchased in 2013, which proved popular with student groups, as well as visitors during
the casual community swimming session on Sunday afternoons.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
New Exercise and Sports Science Laboratory
The Exercise and Sports Science and Physiology teaching, research and testing laboratories were completed
and operational in 2013, accommodating UNE’s new sports related degrees of Exercise and Sports Science,
Clinical Exercise Physiology and Sports Studies. These facilities greatly enhanced the delivery of UNE’s academic
sporting programs and during the Parramatta Eels 2013 Pre-Season Training Camp early in the year, the team took
advantage of SportUNE’s exceptional training facilities, including the Sports and Exercise Science Precinct where
they worked closely with UNE staff on fitness testing and analysis.
Research Programs
UNE PhD student John Scott-Hamilton completed a research program as a part of his doctorate, utilising the
spin bikes at SportUNE. His study examined the effectiveness of an eight-week mindfulness workshop that was
designed to increase competitive cyclist frequency of flow state experience (otherwise known as “being in the
zone”). This was done by facilitating the enhancement of present moment attention and awareness skills.
UNE Honours psychology student Rachel Bretland utilised the facilities at SportUNE and volunteers from the
membership base to conduct research into the effect of exercise on job stress. There were 120 participants
and they were randomly allocated to cardio, resistance or a control group and provided with a training program
appropriate to their condition and asked to keep an exercise diary. The program ran for four weeks.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Health and Wellbeing Presentations
Public talks were held at SportUNE every few months by accredited practising dietician Gillian Woodward. The presentations
offered a variety of nutritional advice and were well attended by UNE staff and students and members of the community.
Backtrack Program
SportUNE supported a pilot program for the Armidale based Backtrack Program. The program was designed to
improve the health and wellbeing of indigenous and youth from low socio-economic backgrounds. SportUNE’s
involvement included developing a customised exercise and nutritional program for participants, hire of a personal
trainer, membership passes and providing gym equipment to the Backtrack School.
Healthy Highlanders Program
SportUNE has been involved in the Healthy Highlanders Program since its inception in 2012. In 2013 SportUNE
staff travelled to Guyra, twice weekly, to conduct specialist classes for members of the program.
Freeman House
Members of Freeman House attended SportUNE twice a week, with an average of 15 – 20 people participating
in each class. Individual programs were established and tailored to the participant’s needs as well as ongoing
assistance, and health and wellbeing advice being available.
The Ascent Group
The Ascent Group attended a weekly class and often joined in with the Mobility Plus Class, held twice weekly.
Many members of the Ascent Group also utilised the pool for private swimming.
E-BIKES
In 2013, SportUNE continued to administer the Electronic Bike (e-bike) Program. The e-bikes are enormously
popular with students, particularly international students, and they provide a means of transportation to those that
are otherwise unable to travel between campuses and town.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
Page 7
C E NT R E O P E R A TI O N S
FITNESS AND WELLBEING
Group Fitness Classes
SportUNE’s Group Fitness program had another very successful year, with continual growth in participation. During
UNE term time there were over 50 classes per week for all ages and fitness levels, including: BodyPump, BodyStep,
BodyAttack, BodyCombat, RPM, BodyBalance and CXWorx. Wellbeing classes, such as Yoga and Pilates, Mobility
Plus, functional fitness based Body Blast, Fitness Plus and Total Body Workout were also held. The ShapeUp and
FitBlokes Programs ran until September when many participants started attending mainstream classes.
Bootcamp Classes were introduced in Spring and proved to be very popular. SportUNE also began a bike specific
training program for ‘Tour de Rocks’ participants and these classes enjoyed a very high attendance rate. A number
of ‘Taste Tester’ Classes were held throughout the year to raise money for various organisations including the
Cancer Council. SportUNE continued to service community groups such as the Ascent Group and Freeman House
with specialised classes.
Gym and Fitness Areas
The gym continued as the focal point of SportUNE, with usage increasing in line with memberships. In November it
was refurbished with new state-of-the-art cardio equipment, including 12 treadmills, six cross trainers, four upright
bikes and two recumbent bikes, achieved through the financial support of the Student Services Amenities Fee
(SSAF). Members continued to benefit from free gym inductions throughout 2013 as well as the opportunity of a
“start off” program with appropriate weights and education on good gym practice.
Corporate Health
In 2013 SportUNE offered discounted membership rates for corporate groups as well as a variety of health and
wellbeing advice. These corporate groups had access to health education, dietary advice, fitness programs and
tools for achieving balance in all aspects of life.
Free Creche Service
Complimentary childcare continued to be offered to patrons every Tuesday and Thursday morning.
The Crèche program is supervised by fully qualified carers and incorporated variety of activities, including craft,
dance and games. Parents were encouraged to take advantage of this time to exercise and socialise in the café.
MARKETING AND MEDIA
In 2013 SportUNE continued with a number of marketing initiatives which included campaigns not only focussed
on recruiting new members, but also the retention of existing members. SportUNE’s digital presence was
strengthened through the update and a number of marketing campaigns focussed on the retention of existing
members as well as recruiting new members.
Promotions throughout the year included the “Our Shout” Campaign which offered a free voucher to come and
try SportUNE facilities, and a “Sign Up, Work Out, Refer On” during December in which every new membership,
visit or referral would go into the draw to win a 12 Month Membership. Other promotions included Valentine’s Day
“Share the Love” campaign and a Pamper Pack Giveaway for Mother’s Day.
After the success of the O-Week Sports Olympiad, held at SportUNE , there was a large uptake of new memberships
from the UNE student population.
Media alerts and media releases were issued weekly ensuring SportUNE maintained a continual presence in the
local, regional and national print and broadcast media.
SportUNE’s electronic newsletter, ‘The Speccy’ changed from a quarterly to a monthly newsletter due to the
large amount of information to convey. ‘The Speccy’ was emailed to all SportUNE members, sponsors and key
stakeholders and provided an overview of general news and developments, as well as information which may
affect usual operations. It proved to be a successful tool for the conveyance of diverse information.
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Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
u n i v ers i t y s p or t
SPORTING CLUBS
SportUNE facilities were utilised for over 20 sporting clubs, both student based and Armidale community clubs.
These clubs competed in university, town and regional sporting competitions. There were also a number of
university student groups that regularly competed in social matches across a number of sports, including Residential
Colleges, Medical Students Association, Law Society and International student groups.
SPORTING SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Recipient
Sport
Scholarship
Lauren Kitchen
Cycling
Clem Jones
Liam Carney
Athletics
Max Schroder
Shara Gillow
Cycling
New England Mutual
Melissa Mitchell
Swimming
SportUNE Full Sporting
Jodi Harris
Soccer
SportUNE Full Sporting
Amber Arazny
Halfpipe Snowboarding
SportUNE Full Sporting
SPORTING SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
SportUNE continued to facilitate the UNE Intercollegiate sporting competitions. Mary Bagnall (MB – female) and
President’s Trophy (PT – male). This sporting tradition has been strongly embedded in the Residential Colleges
and remains an integral part of on campus life at UNE. It offers students in colleges or those living in town the
opportunity to contest different sports each weekend, helping to build comraderie and new social networks. An
average of 400 students participated in each of the mass participation events.
2013 Presidents Trophy Results
Austin College
2013 Mary Bagnall Trophy Results
212
Austin College
240
Earle Page College
192
Duval College
204
Duval College
173
Earle Page College
171
Mary White College
153
Robb College
150
Drummond & Smith College
146
Mary White College
142
Robb College
122
Drummond & Smith College
123
Wright Village
115
Wright Village
102.5
Town
13
Town
38.5
ORIENTATION WEEK
Sports Olympiad
The Sports Olympiad was held at SportUNE, as part of the UNE O-Week. The intercollegiate sporting event is an
opportunity for students to explore the sporting and fitness facilities at SportUNE and encourages them to lead a
healthy and balanced lifestyle by participating in the regular intercollegiate sporting competitions. Approximately
1200 first year on-campus students participated in netball, volleyball, soccer and tug-o-war.
Student Information Orientation Sessions
A SportUNE representative made a presentation during the UNE O-Week program at the beginning of the year and
mid-year. These presentations gave new students an introduction to SportUNE and the facilities available to them.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
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u n i v ers i t y s p or t
INTERVARISTY SPORT
Australian University Games
The Australian University Games were held at the Gold Coast at the beginning of October with over 9000
competitors, volunteers and staff involved. UNE sent a team of 48 athletes to compete in various sports, including
Women’s Soccer, Men’s and Women’s Waterpolo, Swimming and Athletics.
Northern University Games
The Northern University Games were held in Brisbane at the beginning of July. UNE sent a team of 99 representatives
in following sports: Men’s and Women’s Volleyball, Women’s and Mixed Netball, Ten Pin Bowling, Men’s and Mixed
Touch Football, Women’s Soccer, Lawn Bowls and Men’s Basketball. The Women’s Soccer won gold at the games
and the Women’s Soccer and Women’s Netball teams both qualified for the Australian University Games.
SPORTING EXCELLENCE
There were many great contributions to sport at local, state, national and international levels in 2013. UNE student
and former Women’s 8 rowing Olympian Sarah Cook joined forces with another UNE student and Olympic Gold
Medallist, Elise Rechichi, to form a sailing duo. They competed internationally in the 470 and 49er FX classes in a
number of world championships in 2013 and proved to be a formidable team.
Sports scholarship recipient, Melissa Mitchell attended the World University Games in Kazan, Russia for swimming
where she competed against the best in the world and achieved all Personal Bests.
Under 19 National Mountain Bike Champion, Holly Harris, travelled to Switzerland in May for a week long training
camp before competing in the Union Cycliste Internationale Mountain Bike World Cup in Albadst, Germany and
Nove Mesto na Morave, Czech Republic. Holly also competed in the World Championships in Pietermaritzburg,
Republic of South Africa in late August.
Olympic Water Polo player, Richie Campbell was named Vice Captain of the Australian Sharks for the FINA world
championships in Barcelona.
New England Mutual Sporting Scholarship holder, Shara Gillow, started off a very successful year in cycling when she
claimed her third consecutive national time trial, becoming the first woman in almost twenty years to do so. Throughout
the year Shara went on to claim three first place, two second place and five third place titles, all on the world stage.
Erin Osborne, member of the Australian Women’s Cricket
Team, the Southern Stars and 2013 UNE Sportsperson of
the Year recipient, played a key role in the undefeated
squad at the Women’s World Cup. She was also named
as a member of the 14 player squad that travelled to
England for the Women’s Ashes tour in August.
ELITE ATHLETE FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY
(EAFU NETWORK)
The Elite Athlete Friendly University Network program
at UNE continued to grow in 2013, with 27 recognised
athletes enrolled at the conclusion of the year.
In late October, SportUNE staff attended the Elite Athlete
Friendly University Forum which ran for two days and was
attended by 28 universities as well as a large number of
national sporting organisations and national university
bodies. This biennial forum discussed the EAFU support
programs that exist under the framework of the Australian
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Campus to City Canter group warm up led by SportUNE Instructors.
Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
u n i v ers i t y s p or t
Sports Commission as well as those created and implemented by individual universities. The attendees heard first
hand from student Olympians as well as Australian University Sport, the Australian Sports Commission and special
guest Professor Paul Wylleman who is a member of the European Union Expert Panel on Sport and Education.
SPORTS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT (SBDU)
UNE’s sponsorship with the Parramatta Eels was strengthened in 2013 with the UNE logo appearing on the front
of the teams playing jerseys, along with their training apparel and also around their home ground at Parramatta
Stadium, targeting a national audience.
In January 2013, UNE hosted the Parramatta Eels week long pre-season training camp. The team took full
advantage of UNE’s residential college accommodation and exceptional training and Sport Science facilities. The
highlight of the week - the NRL trial match against the Newcastle Knights - attracted over 5200 spectators making
it the largest sporting event ever hosted in Armidale, providing further exposure for the university and Armidale.
In April 2013 the university officially opened the UNE Future Campus in Church St Parramatta. This campus reflects
UNE’s innovation and is a cornerstone of UNE’s online teaching vision and will provide a flexible and open learning
environment in Western Sydney. UNE students studying by distance will have access to state-of-the-art learning
technologies and opportunities to collaborate with peers and instructors.
Other continuing key focuses of the SDBU include the creation of an ‘institute of sports education’, aimed at
bringing together all sports education disciplines, further sports sponsorships to extend the brand exposure of
UNE and expansion of the UNE Elite Athletes program.
SPORTING COMPETITIONS
SportUNE facilities were utilised for a number of UNE Sporting Clubs running weekly competitions. Sports included
soccer, rugby union, touch football, basketball, netball, waterpolo, volleyball and underwater hockey.
Elite Athletes Elise Rechichi and Sarah Cook competed internationally in the 470 and 49er FX classes in a number of world championships in 2013.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
Page 11
B lues & A w ar d s
Above left: Courtley Mancell, winner of Full Blue Award 2013. Above centre: Mr. Adam Marshall MP presenting the Intervarsity Team of the Year Award. Above right: Rebecca Atherton.
The Annual UNE Sports Awards Presentation evening was held in conjunction with the ‘75 Years of Sport Celebration’
and the official opening of the capital developments at SportUNE. There to honour and celebrate the sporting
achievements of UNE students were 220 guests. The new Multipurpose Hall at SportUNE was transformed for the
event, Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Mr. Peter Annis Brown, former CEO of Northern Inland Academy
of Sport (NIAS). Guests were treated to a Q & A session with a panel of current and former UNE sporting stars
including a number of Olympians.
There were many outstanding contributions to sport in 2013. UNE Sportsperson of the Year Erin Osborne was
a member of the Australian Women’s Cricket Team, the Southern Stars. Erin is an off spin bowler who made her
international debut in 2009. Full Blue recipient Courtley Mancell also had an impressive year being named in the
combined University’s Women’s Soccer Green and Gold Team after competing at the Australian University Games,
and being part of the gold winning team at the Northern University Games.
AWARDS
UNE Sportsperson of the Year
Erin Osborne Women’s Cricket
McDonalds Club of the Year
Outdoor Adventure Club
Full Blue
Courtley Mancell Services to UNE Sport
& 2012 AUG’s Women’s Soccer
UNE Club Team of the Year
New England Nomads (AFL)
Olivia Molineux Memorial
Dana Cutrupi
Spirit of Sport at UNE
Terry Farrell SportUNE Grounds
Sports Administrator of the Year
Rebecca Atherton Netball
Club Honours Award
Ben Vincent Outdoor Adventure Club
Megan Raines Netball
Charlotte Egan Netball
James Lovelock Soccer
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Spirit of the Games Award
UNE Mixed Touch Football
UNE Coach of the Year
Chris Donovan UNE Soccer
Intercollegiate Sport Mary Bagnall & President’s Trophy
Austin College
Intervarsity Team of the Year
UNE Women’s Soccer Team
Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
C E L E B R A TIN G 7 5 Y E A R S O F S P O R T
In 2013 the University of New England celebrated 75
Years of Sport. To commemorate the occasion and
in conjunction with the Annual UNE Sports Award
Presentation a black tie dinner was held on September
21, The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP officially opened the
capital development work at SportUNE.
The new Multipurpose Hall at SportUNE was transformed
for the evening, with 220 guests attending and a number
of special guests, including the Chancellor of UNE, Hon.
John Watkins, UNE Vice Chancellor, Professor Jim Barber
and Mr Adam Marshall MP, along with past alumni Sports
Award winners, life members of SportUNE, current and
past staff and students. The Master of Ceremonies for
the evening was Mr. Peter Annis Brown, former CEO of
Northern Inland Academy of Sport (NIAS).
The evening featured a Q & A panel of UNE sporting stars,
including Kathleen Partridge who represented Australia in
Hockey at two Olympic Games; Shaun Creighton, a long
distance runner who also represented Australia at two
Olympic Games; Melissa Mitchell, a freestyle swimmer
who qualified for the 2004 Athens Olympics at the age
of 16 years and Emma Gillogly who was a member of the
Australian Women’s Rugby Sevens Squad in 2013.
To commemorate the occasion a timeline photo board was
constructed as a permanent feature in the centre, illustrating
some interesting facts and figures in SportUNE’s history.
Above left: The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP SportsAwards Night. Above right from top: UNE students Danika Blackburn, Emily Bidgood, Elise Sury, Kimberley Patch and
Cassie Keogh. Next: SportUNE CEO, Dave Schmude, Barnaby Joyce, Federal Member for New England, John Watkins, Chancellor UNE and Jim Barber, Vice-Chancellor
UNE. Next: Dianne Hallam, NIAS Execeutive Officer, Adam Marshall MP and Kathie Hunt, Operations Manager, SportUNE. Next: Professor Jim Barber, UNE Vice
Chancellor, Kathleen Partridge and Dr. Jack Hobbs.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
Page 13
club ac t i v i t y
AFL (New England Nomads)
President: Adrian Walsh
The New England Nomads had another successful year both on and off the field under the leadership of coach
Tom Granleese and assistant coach Adrian Walsh. The club participated in the Tablelands Cup at Bellevue Oval
in March 2013 against five strong teams. They won the TAFL premiership for the second year in a row. They won
the grandfinal in an unprecedented walkover, winning by 27 goals and only lost one game during the season. Best
and fairest, and leading goal kicker for the year was Jed Ellis Cluff with Benji Julien and Riley Connor sharing the
runners up trophy. The Nomads Ball, held in July was a great success.
UNDERWATER HOCKEY
President: Simon Finch
The UNE Underwater Hockey Club experienced a good year in 2013. The majority of games went ahead each
week throughout the year, with a minimum of six players per session. The club was invited to a number of
tournaments through the year but could not attend due to players’ work and other commitments. Game times and
player costs remained the same throughout the year, and the club has set aside some funds for the replacement
of club equipment into the future.
NETBALL
President: Rebecca Atherton
2013 was a very successful year for the UNE Netball Club. There was an increase in the number of teams entered
into the women’s competition to 37 teams across four grades. There was also an increase in the mixed competition,
resulting in a longer competition overall. The Barbettes won both A grade and A-Reserve in the women’s competition.
Robb College won B grade and Wright Village were the C grade premiers and the ‘Tovers’ won the mixed competition.
Two teams attended the Northern University Games and proudly represented the club and the university. The mixed
team came sixth and the women’s came fifth and qualified for the Australian University Games. Club President,
Rebecca Atherton was awarded Club President of the Year at the Blues Sporting Awards Night.
ROBB COLLEGE RUGBY UNION
President: James Cleaver
In 2013 a new batch of coaches joined Robb Rugby Club. Dave Schmude and Andrew Hall coached first grade,
Jim Boland and Sam Ditchfield in second grade and Jock Tolmie in third grade. The season began with the
annual freshers’ match between Robb and Albies, with Albies winning. All three grades made it to the semi- finals,
however narrowly lost to St. Albert’s College. The end of season trip was to New Zealand where they played
against Canterbury University and Lincoln University in the South Island and Wellington University in the North.
Throughout the year the club had raised $15,000 to help offset the cost of the tour.
BADMINTON
President: Suresh Kumar
At the beginning of the year the club had a stall at Life Savers Day during Orientation Week to help grow interest
in Badminton. Due to reduced member numbers, Friday sessions were cancelled and Sunday sessions remained.
The fee structure was changed from term fee and session fee to bulk term fee and non-members fee. A number
of members travelled to numerous competitions throughout the year, including The Newcastle Open, where the
team placed runner-up in the Grade Two section. Also to Coffs Harbour for the Second Northern Regional Team
Challenge, where they placed runner-up. The club arranged a social competition with Coffs Harbour Badminton
Club at SportUNE in September. In 2013 the club joined the New South Wales Badminton Association.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CLUB (UNEOAC)
President: Johl Sue
2013 was an exciting year for the club, with the opening of the new climbing wall. During the remodelling of the
climbing wall a local business ‘Uncarved Block’ allowed the club the use of their facility. The opening of the new
wall saw an increase in memberships to the club with up to 25 people attending organised climbing sessions. The
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Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
club ac t i v i t y
club was involved with a number of events throughout the year including Lifesaver Day, UNE Well Fair, Armidale
Rotary Outdoor Expo, the Club’s Open Day and ‘taster’ evenings, which were very popular.
The Club’s Open Day was at Gara Gorge with rock climbing, bouldering, abseiling, bushwalking, slack lining and
swimming, followed by a BBQ lunch. During Easter, 30 members attended the Beulah Rock Climbing Festivus.
Other events included rock climbing trips to Coffs Harbour, Ebor, Gara Gorge and Mt Yarrowyck , overnight hiking
trips along the Green Gully and Cathedral Rocks tracks, and many day walks at Dangars Falls, Mihi Falls, McDirtys
Lookout, Point Lookout and Cathedral Rocks. Regular mountain bike rides were held at the Piney and SportUNE
tracks throughout the year, and some members participated in the Washpool Ultra Marathon trail run. In addition
to these events, we also held weekly club climbing nights at the new wall, regular lunchtime slack lining sessions
on the lawns of Booloominbah. A highlight of the year was when the club was awarded the 2013 Club of the Year
Award, and additionally club member Ben Vincent was awarded the Club Honours Award.
UNE Huskies
2013 started off with a bang with several new members joining the ranks. This quickly followed with several competitions
including Gold Coast’s Strongest Man and Queensland Strongest Man. Many members did well with some podium
finishes. Unfortunately several members did become injured during the season and had to withdraw from competitions.
With the addition of the new equipment the club plans to progress even further in the coming years.
WATER POLO
President: Jeremy Wilson
2013 was an interesting year for UNE Water Polo with the introduction of the new registration system and there was an
outstanding recruitment of 20 teams for the 2014 season. Two successful competitions were run, one in each trimester,
with a good attendance from the colleges, town and school teams. A men’s and women’s water polo team attended
the Australian University Games at the Gold Coast with both teams placing fifth in Division Two. The Armidale Bowling
Club sponsored the club and thanks to their generous support the club purchased a new set of caps.
SCUBA CLUB
President: Roy Lawson
In 2013 the scuba club had ten members, with several dive
courses organized throughout the year and all courses
competed. A try dive night was run with great success, which
involved three hours of diving in the SportUNE pool. Successful
sale of the UNE scuba club boat occurred and four of the clubs
tanks were re- accredited with future prospects of diving with
the club’s own equipment. Day dives were also conducted over
the course of the year, with Jetty dive as the host dive company.
Future plans include looking into scholarships/grants for the
club to help subsidize courses and recreational diving costs and
looking into the SURG group,a research group that subsidizes
diving costs, to help encourage diving for scientific purposes.
VOLLEYBALL
President: Shane Andrews
Throughout 2013 the UNE Volleyball Club conducted two
separate competitions, one in trimester one and the second
in trimester two. Both competitions run successfully with an A
Grade and B Grade competition and an average of seven teams
in each grade. Two teams competed in the Northern University
Games, with the women’s team placing fourth in the competition,
and the men’s team placing seventh. Club President was Shane
Andrews with Tara Dobson holding the Treasurer’s position.
In 2013 SportUNE’s newly renovated Climbing Wall and Bouldering
Cave opened..
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
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commu n i t y e n gageme n t
Programs Within The Centre
Lighting the Fire
The Aboriginal youth leadership event ‘Lighting the Fire’ was
held at SportUNE on November 8 -10. Officially opening
the event was The Hon. John Watkins, UNE Chancellor
and representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs was
Mr Adam Marshall, MP. There were approximately 300
participants, aged 16 – 24 years, from the Northern Region
of the NSW Aboriginal Lands Council.
A number of inspirational speakers, including Aden
Ridgeway, a well-known political figure and Bev Manton,
former Chairperson of the NSW Aboriginal Lands Council
(NSWALC), spoke about the skills of leadership, the
history of Aboriginal Land Rights Act, issues affecting
aboriginal youth and the way forward.
The weekend also included forums, dance and drama
groups and song writing. A number of NRL players
attended the event which was supported by Aboriginal
Affairs NSW, Warra-li Resources Unit, NSW Aboriginal
Land Council (NSWALC), Arts North West and the
University of New England.
Swimming Lessons for Overseas Students
In January a three week swimming program with three
lessons per week ran at SportUNE’s indoor pool. The
English Language Centre (ELC) provided funding for
the swimming and water safety lessons. Participants
experiences were used to educate other ELC students.
Lighting the Fire, Malachi and Shannon.
Harwood Swim School
Harwood Swim School was contracted to run a ‘Learn to Swim’ School throughout the year. The school attracted
up to 500 students per week in the peak times of term one and four. The Harwood Swim School also ran adult early
morning swim squads twice weekly. The success of the swim school contributed to the Café sales at SportUNE.
Camps and Events
Parramatta Eels Pre-Season Camp and Trial Match
In 2013 UNE extended its major sponsorship of the Parramatta Eels, building on the relationship between education
and sport. UNE once again hosted the NRL Club’s 2013 week long pre-season training camp from Jan 29 – Feb 3.
The week included community engagement events such as junior coaching clinics, school visits, a UNE morning
tea and ‘Evening with the Eels’ dinner for over 300 guests where UNE Vice Chancellor, Jim Barber welcomed
the team. The highlight of the week was the NRL pre-season trial match between the Parramatta Eels and the
Newcastle Knights, attracting over 5200 spectators, making it the largest sporting event ever hosted in the region.
Prior to the main match were curtain raisers between the Under 16’s and Under 18’s Eels and NSW Country.
In attendance during the week were many past and present legends of NRL including, Parramatta Eels coach,
Ricky Stuart, Jared Hayne, Nathan Cayless, Roy Masters, Ray Price, Steve Sharp and Channel 7’s Sunrise morning
program broadcast their weather live from SportUNE.
The team lived on campus at Mary White College and had access to all of UNE’s and SportUNE’s exceptional
training facilities, including the Sports and Exercise Science Precinct where they worked closely with UNE staff on
fitness testing and analysis.
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Celebrating 75 Years of Sport
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UNE Golf Day
Held on March 1 at the Uralla Golf Club, this community
sponsored event attracted 108 players.
The Vice
Chancellors Cup was won by the ADDA Constructions
Team of Dean Moore, Matt Tremayne, Matt Jackson and
Andrew Williams. Close to $10,000 was raised to support
the UNE Sporting Scholarships, which assist our UNE
athletes in pursuing both academic and sporting goals.
Armidale Fun Run
On November 3, 2013 the inaugural Armidale Fun Run
took place. This is the highest fun run staged in an Australia
city. This was a community based initiative, featuring three
runs, the Roberts and Morrow 10km, SportUNE 5km and
Gerard Kelly Solicitors 2km 4kids. Armidale Athletics is a
direct beneficiary of the run with proceeds from every entry
going to the club. The event was officially sanctioned and
accredited by Athletics Australia.
Tour de Rocks
SportUNE supported the Tour de Rocks in 2013 by donating
the use of a 12 seater bus and trailer for the three day event.
With the popularity of the event rising, towards the end
of 2013 SportUNE commenced a bike specific training
program for Tour de Rocks participants. The training
program continued into 2014 and proved very popular.
The 2013 UNE Golf Day raised money for UNE Sporting Scholarships.
12 Hours in the Piney Mountain Bike Ride
UNE sponsored the New England Mountain Bikers (NEMTB) ‘UNE 12 Hours in the Piney’ bike ride. The very
successful event attracted 267 riders and is considered the premier mountain bike event in Northern NSW. In its
fourth year the multi-lap race took place in the Armidale State Forest (Piney). Defending titlist Jason English from
Port Macquarie who is the reigning 24-hour World Mountain Bike Champion won the Solo Men’s division and was
the overall winner. The Solo Women’s division was won by Kirby Knowles.
Community Mutual National Rugby Union Camp
In its 13th year, the popular training camp held at SportUNE in January attracted over 200 participants between
the ages of eight and 16 years. It is Australia’s largest rugby camp of its kind. The camp’s main activities took place
on the Consett Davis Playing Fields, but they also utilised the centre’s multi-purpose halls, swimming pool and
café. The older participants were accommodated at UNE’s residential colleges.
Parramatta Eels Mudgee Match
The Parramatta Eels played the Gold Coast Titans in Round 11 at Glen Willow Stadium, Mudgee. The game
attracted over 9000 spectators. The game was part of the NRL’s push to engage with regional NSW by hosting
games in country locations. UNE had a presence on the day with a number of SportUNE representatives fielding
questions at the UNE tent.
‘Pay It Forward’ Campaign
In the month of July SportUNE was involved with the ‘Pay It Forward’ Campaign initiated by Armidale Radio Station
100.3 FM. A number of Armidale Cafés were involved with this initiative which offered patrons the opportunity to
‘suspend’ a hot beverage for the less fortunate, by paying in advance.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
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MS Walk & Fun Run
The MS Walk & Fun Run is held at SportUNE at the beginning of June, the event was moved inside to Campbell
Hall due to inclement weather. Held in support of the nationwide MS Walk and Fun Run the event helped raised
funds for people living with MS.
Donate4Kate
SportUNE supported Donate4Kate Week in May by encouraging participants to wear odd socks to the gym and
fitness classes and donate a gold coin. Donate4Kate Week raises money for Melanoma Research. Kate Philip,
an Armidale girl was 22 years old when she died from Melanoma. Kate’s family has established the Kate Philip
Melanoma Research Fund to help support ongoing research.
New South Wales Institute of Sport
SportUNE is an accredited training centre for the NSW Institute of Sport regional athletes. SportUNE fitness staff
assist these athletes with their weight training and fitness programs throughout the year.
Northern Inland Academy of Sport (NIAS)
In its fourth year UNE continued to proudly support NIAS. Regular training sessions were held for NIAS Netball,
utilising the indoor hall facilities at SportUNE and NIAS Hockey also used these facilities and the hockey fields. An
average of five NIAS athletes go on to study at UNE each year.
Northern Inland Football (NIF) Soccer Training & Camp
The Northern Inland Football utilised the Consett Davis Playing Fields at SportUNE for regular training programs
and selection trials, carnivals and matches for U11 and U14 Regional Representative Squads. The NSW U14’s
Carnival was played at the Bellevue Field at SportUNE, with more than 140 young athletes using the indoor
facilities at SportUNE, as well as a number of participants staying on campus.
School Gala Days
Regular local and regional interschool competitions, trials and gala days were held throughout the year, with
attendance of approximately 200-300 students from Armidale and the surrounding region at each event, plus
parents and supporters. These included sports such as cross country running, rugby league, soccer, netball, indoor
volleyball and swimming.
Chugby for Charity
The Chugby for Charity game was played at Bellevue Oval on July 6 with 480 people attending. The annual
challenge between St Albert’s College and Robb College, saw the former win. $3754.43 was raised, $1251.50
being donated equally to The Heart Foundation, Aussie Helpers and Tour de Cure.
Northern NSW State Soccer Trials & Training Camp
More than 100 young elite soccer players stayed on campus and utilised the Consett Davis Playing Fields and
indoor facilities.
Armidale Dumaresq Sports Council
SportUNE was a member of the Armidale Dumaresq Sports Council in 2013 and contributed information about
UNE sporting events and activities to their monthly newsletter.
Twilight Sport
SportUNE’s Twilight Soccer Competition continued in 2013 with approximately 250 participants playing in the
Open Men’s, Open Women’s and Open Mixed Competitions, during term one and term four.
School Weekly Sporting Programs
SportUNE continued to play an important role in the weekly school sporting programs for a number of local
schools, including Armidale High School, Duval High School, Presbyterian Ladies College, Armidale City Primary
School, Bendemeer Primary School and O’Connor Catholic College. Approximately 200 students attended each
week and utilised a broad cross-section of SportUNE facilities.
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Primary School Sports Association (PSSA)
SportUNE facilities were utilised for a number of PSSA events, such as North West Rugby League zone trials for
11 years and open, North West Soccer primary schools’ boys’ and girls’ football finals, NSW Rugby Union State
Carnival and North West Winter Trials for rugby league, netball and soccer and the Combined High Schools (CHS)
State Soccer Carnival. These events attracted hundreds of participants and spectators.
Autumn Festival Campus to City Canter
The Annual Campus to City Canter took place on March 16, attracting approximately 600 competitors. SportUNE
Fitness Instructor, Demian Coates-Scholl led the warm-up and UNE Vice-Chancellor Jim Barber fired the start gun.
SportUNE staff members, Ariane Mazzei, Brad King, Jacqui Munday and Ben Bible all helped with registrations.
Proceeds from the Fun Run went to the Armidale SES.
Disabled Soccer Day – ‘Help Save Our Sons’
On September 8, a soccer day for disabled children was held in Campbell Hall at SportUNE as a fundraiser for
‘Help Save Our Sons’, a charity organisation raising funds and awareness to help find a cure for Duchenne Muscular
Dystrophy (DMD). The children played a match against the first grade North soccer players. There was also a
demonstration between North players and Demon Knights.
Guyra Show Triathlon
Five SportUNE crèche staff participated in the Guyra Show Triathlon event as well as a number of SportUNE
members. In its second year the triathlon has proven to be a fun and popular event at the Agricultural Show.
Tough Mudder Event
Tough Mudder is a military style obstacle course event designed to test strength, stamina and mental fortitude. Seven
UNE medical students competed in the event on April 13. Monies raised from these events goes to Legacy Australia.
Suck it Up Buttercup Event
The ‘Suck it Up Butter Cup’ Challenge was held in Tamworth at the end of November and SportUNE sent a team
of fitness instructors to compete in the military style obstacle course event.
SportUNE supported a number of community organisations by donating membership vouchers or financially sponsoring
events. These included:
• Armidale Youth Refuge
• Camp Quality
• Beyond Blue
• Community Mutual Armidale
Greyhound Race Day
• Community Health
• Rams Rugby League
• School Fetes
• Secondary Schools ‘Spirit of Sport’ Awards
Armidale Golf Club Jug
SportUNE sponsored the 18th hole at the Armidale Golf
Club Jug event, which is the clubs largest event for the year.
The Racing Kangaroos Cycling Team
The team of talented young road cyclists utilised the
Twilight Soccer Competition 2013.
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351 | 02 6773 3856 | sportune.com.au
Page 19
commu n i t y e n gageme n t
Exercise and Sports Science facilities at SportUNE to go through some physiological assessments aimed at helping
to improve their performance on and off the bike.
UNE Young Professionals Program
SportUNE sponsored former UNE Sporting Scholarship holder Max Schroder as the guest speaker for the UNE
Young Professionals Program.
Roller Derby
SportUNE hosted Armidale’s first Roller Derby demonstration “Thunder Bout” on March 16. The roller skating
style sport proved to be a very popular event with people from all over the state attending.
New England Rugby Union Reunion
At the beginning of October the New England Rugby Reunion was held. SportUNE supported the long weekend
event with a highlight being the carnival style match day held at UNE’s Bellevue Oval.
Dancing with the Stars Fundraising Event
SportUNE fitness instructor Lindy Hardman participated in the Armidale “Dancing with the Stars” event, to raise
funds for The Cancer Council. To help Lindy in her endeavours SportUNE held a “Taste Testers” Class with all entry
fees donated to the Cancer Council.
Women’s Masters Hockey State Carnival
In July the Women’s Masters Hockey State Carnival was hosted by Hockey New England at the hockey fields at
SportUNE. This was a large event with 60 teams competing. Masters Hockey is flourishing in Armidale.
Above left: Tough Mudder Team, Jonathon Stacey, Hannah Sherrin, Jessica Tay and Kylie Zhong. Above right: Suck It Up Buttercup group.
Page 20
Sport UNE | Annual Report 2013
Australian Online and External Students Association Inc
Open letter to Chancellor, John Watkins, Deputy-Chancellor, Vice Chancellor and
Councillors of UNE, Armidale, NSW 2351
21st May, 2014
Re: Student Representation
Dear Chancellor, Deputy-Chancellor, Vice Chancellor and Councillors,
Firstly let me thank you again for changing the rules in regard to the SSAF last December.
That issue is thankfully behind us but the Council’s decision of 6th December has regrettably
raised another issue in terms of the representation of external students who, as we know, make
up by far the majority of UNE students.
I went to a Special General Meeting of UNESA tonight (21st May) to support the inclusion of an
indigenous representative in the association. I am very pleased to say that the motion was
passed unanimously.
More importantly, out of a pitiful 29 student members at the meeting, only a couple were
external students. Most external students have given up the idea of any meaningful
representation by UNESA. Over the last two years, the main protagonists at UNESA have done
nothing but attack me in my call for fairer SSAF fees; never once did they represent what the
external students wanted in this respect. Complaints have been registered, not just by me,
against members of the UNESA Board for their behaviour. However the complaints have been
cast aside by the university, claiming that it is not their concern despite the laws on bullying on
university media. Since the complaints are about behaviour for over two years, they go back well
before UNESA was formed and are therefore not just a matter for UNESA.
Whatever you have been told, over the last two years, elections have been determined
improperly. Also members of council were told at the October 2012 meeting that the issue of
automatic membership of student associations was under control when it was not. In fact the
continuing position of automatic membership was used by the Returning Officer as an excuse for
not allowing an election 6 months later in early 2013 when the postgrad association executive
committee requested an election be run after a unanimously decision at a board meeting.
We had put forward a simple process approved by the Privacy Commission and DIISRTE (as it
was then) so that membership became voluntary but this was amazingly rejected by the
Returning Officer. This was despite the fact that the same process was used later by the same
Returning Officer for the UNESA election. The postgrad association has been left in despair.
Despite claims to the contrary, postgrads were never properly asked if they approved of the
dissolution of their association and the amalgamation with the undergrad association.
AOESA, a non-profit incorporated association in NSW (INC 1200305)
ABN 25 577 467 233. PO Box U108, Armidale NSW 2351
Control of communications to students has been used to stop the explanation to them of what
has happened and to stop the call for elections in early 2014. In all this, I fought for external
students (though I wasn’t one) and for postgrad students (which I was) and I fought above all for
the honesty of UNE. Whatever you think of me personally, the university does bear a measure of
responsibility for all that has happened.
I am writing to you with regard to deep concerns about student representation as required
under the Higher Education Acts. Given the current situation, there should be a separate external
student association and there should be a separate organisation for research students as their
interests and needs are so different from coursework students. This also fits in with the SSAF fee
structures.
The amalgamation into UNESA was promoted by undergrads and senior administrators at the
expense of externals and postgrads; there was no real need for it. At other universities, such
amalgamations have only caused strife. The administrators of the university and of UNESA will
not allow us to write to external students asking them what they want.
Please insist at tomorrow’s Council meeting that the students are asked properly what they
want. Please call for a referendum of external students and a separate referendum of research
students as to whether they wish to have a single amalgamated association or their own
separate associations. At present there is no proper democratic representation of UNE students
as a whole.
Yours sincerely,
Colin Hargreaves
President
P.S. On another point, students are also concerned about the proposed casualisation of staff in
the Academic Skills office. There seems to be no justification for the proposals other than
administrators making their mark. Staff are being left to feel very insecure and there are fears
the proposals will lead to lower quality servicing of students in need of help.
AOESA, a non-profit incorporated association in NSW (INC 1200305)
ABN 25 577 467 233. PO Box U108, Armidale NSW 2351