September 18, 2023

Message to students - 18 September, 2023

Dear Students, I hope this message finds you well and ready to enjoy a well-deserved mid-session break. As we approach this brief pause in learning activity, I have some important updates to share with you.

Library hours extended

You asked and we listened. In response to your feedback, opening hours at UOW Library on Wollongong campus will be extended. Starting from 3 October until 15 November, the library facilities will be accessible from 8 am until midnight seven days a week. Take full advantage of this extended access to maximise your studying experience. UOW Security will be on-site to ensure your safety and wellbeing while using the library’s resources. For more information, see UOW Library opening times.

GP access on campus

Your health and wellbeing are essential to us. We also know that students value easy access to quality and affordable health care, which is why we have engaged the services of Grand Pacific Health (GPH), located at our Wollongong campus in building 11. All students are bulk billed, and GPH offers services including male and female General Practitioners (GP), nurses and psychology services. You can make an appointment online or by calling (02) 4267 6340.

In support of Indigenous constitutional recognition

On Saturday 14 October, the referendum will ask Australians if they want to recognise the First Peoples of Australia in the Constitution and if they support the establishment of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples representative body that can make recommendations to Parliament. As a University, we are committed to supporting Indigenous constitutional recognition, and we’re planning several fun ways for students to get involved in such an important time in our history.

You can join fellow students and staff on Wednesday 20 September from 12.30 to 1.30 pm on McKinnon Lawn to form a giant human ‘YES’, followed by a free BBQ.  By attending, you can also go in the draw to WIN one of three double passes to the Yours and Owls Festival, held at UOW Wollongong campus on 14 and 15 October.

Then, from 3 pm to 5 pm, there will be a Voice to Parliament Ceremony at the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre Yarning Circle. At this special event, the Student Advisory Council (SAC) will formally present their statement of support for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. This statement received signatures of support from UOW students, which will complement the document. Listen to speeches of support, network with other peers, participate in ‘Yes’ badge-making and enjoy free food. Find out more and register for the SAC event.

Student Elections are coming up

If you’re passionate about making a difference and enjoy representing your fellow students, you can nominate yourself (or someone you know) for the 2023 Student Elections. As a student representative member, you can voice your perspective on various issues, including those affecting your academic life and the student experience. You can also gain valuable governance experience and knowledge about how the University works, which will be helpful when applying for jobs after your degree. Nominations close on 19 September 2023. For more information on the available positions, see the Governance elections webpage.

2023 Chancellor Robert Hope Memorial Prize

I am delighted to let you know that applications for the prestigious 2023 Chancellor Robert Hope Memorial Prize are now open. All students who graduate in 2023 and have demonstrated academic excellence and strong leadership potential are encouraged to apply. The recipient will receive the Chancellor Robert Hope Medal, a monetary prize of $7,000 and a $3,000 donation to their choice of charitable or community organisation. You can find more details on eligibility and how to apply by visiting the Robert Hope Memorial Prize webpage. Nominations close at 5 pm on Monday, 20 November.

R U OK?

Last week was R U OK? Day, and I hope you had the chance to pause and ask someone how they’re feeling. As this year’s theme is about active listening, let’s not underestimate that a simple conversation can impact someone’s life. I also want to remind you that UOW provides various free and confidential resources to support your health and wellbeing. Please remember to ask for help when you need it.

Annual Science Interprofessional Education Day

Last week, the Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health hosted Science Interprofessional Education Day, where undergraduate students from a range of faculties and degrees came together and worked with partners and facilitators from UOW and Wollongong City Council to tackle the issue of microplastics and their impact on environmental and human health. Students developed creative solutions and pitched their ideas through a five-minute presentation. Congratulations to the team who pitched using spider silk in sunscreen to remove the need for microplastics as a coagulant and walked away with first place. I am so proud of everyone’s work on this critical issue.

As we enter the mid-session break, I encourage you to relax, rejuvenate and make the most of this increasingly warm weather. We look forward to welcoming you back refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of the semester.

Thank you for being part of our vibrant and dynamic student community. Your involvement and contributions make UOW a better place for everyone.

My warmest,

Trish