NOMINEES

University of Newcastle Law Students’ Association

NOMINEE BOOKLET

2015/2016

NOMINEES President MEENA BRAR Hi my name is Meena Brar and I would love to be the 2016 President of the UNLSA. I think my term as Vice President Events has been one filled with much success and have shown that I am more than capable of handling a role that is traditionally filled by two people. I have loved every minute of it and have felt so blessed to be surrounded by so much love and support from not only the committee and my friends, but from students in general. Being a JD student, I have tried to make sure that the interests of the JD students have been heard and that we can build the program to be the best it can be. If elected President, I will continue to not only express and represent the interests of the JD students but also for the LLB students. I think there is room to grow and make each program better and that can only happen if the students’ input is taken into account. Part of being president is being in constant communication with the law school and working with the VP Education to ensure that students needs are being heard and that change is enacted. I am on good terms with the law schools staff and admin, which is important for maintaining the positive relationship we currently have with them. Another role of the President is to be supportive of their Vice Presidents. I think it’s important to constantly support each role, and ensure that if help is needed the President be there to assist. This year, I tried to offer my help to anyone that needed it. I also made sure to attend as many events as I could because part of being a committee is coming out and supporting one another. It’s about showing respect to the effort it takes to commit to a position on the committee, whether it is as a director or a VP. I will continue to maintain our current relationships with local and commercial sponsors and work to establish new ones where possible. Through my position as VP Events this year, my placement time at the Newcastle Legal Aid Office and through various network events, I have established relationships with local businesses and residents of Newcastle. It is important for the UNLSA to maintain its positive image within the city, and further our image throughout the various surrounding cities. If elected as president, I will work hard to ensure that all students are heard. My goal would be for the UNLSA to be as transparent as possible and to make sure that the overall interests of our student body are preserved. I will work hard to ensure that all students have solid opportunities and that the whole committee works as one to carry out the term to the best of our ability. I want to ensure that all law students will have numerous chances to come together socially, as well as opportunities to network with local practitioners. I will continue to ensure that the strengths and overall goals of the UNLSA are upheld, promoted and developed.

NOMINEES President BRIDGET BENNETT My name is Bridget Bennett. I am a third year Business (majoring in Human Resources)/Law student. The UNLSA is an association that I have been passionate about since I was elected the Director of Student Publications in 2013. In this role I thoroughly enjoyed conversing with other committee members, the student body and the wider community in our quest to produce a captivating and informative read. I am proud that Justice Kirby contributed to our edition of Justitia. My time as a Director also highlighted to me the difficulties faced by new committee members, which I wish to aid if I am elected as President for 2016. This year I have held the position of Vice President (Sponsorship). I have gained valuable knowledge on how the Association operates, what each position entails and what is needed to maintain strong relationships with our sponsors. During my time in this role, with the help of the Committee, I have organised Opportunities in Law and the Careers Roadshow. I have also initiated two new events; the Clerkship Forum and Yoga Day (which you will hear more about in the coming weeks). I have strong organisational skills and the ability to create and execute new initiatives, to ensure the various needs of the UNLSA members are met. If I am elected as President for the 2015-2016 term I will make a concerted effort to ensure that UNLSA enhances the awareness of current activities that unfortunately, go somewhat unnoticed by members. The UNLSA is much more than an organisation of events and social gatherings. While events and social gatherings are an integral part of the experience the UNLSA offers, the organisation has so much more to offer by provoking thought, discussion and awareness. I will strive to present students with the opportunity to involve themselves in initiatives such as the Social Justice Forum, Opportunities in Law, the Intervarsity Sports Day, Justitia, Law v Med rugby and the Indigenous events, to ensure that the UNLSA is catering to the diverse range of people who study at Newcastle Law School. My vision for the UNLSA is involvement. My aim, beyond ensuring that the Association runs smoothly for the 2015-2016 term, is to encourage the involvement of those who have not been involved previously. I understand firsthand how being involved can make the law school experience incredible. The UNLSA should not be an exclusive club, but an organisation that embraces the voices of all students. I feel that it is crucial to talk one-on-one with students about their involvement, to encourage input from every corner of the Law School. My marketing plan is to ensure that a wide range of mechanisms are utilised including face-to face conversations with students, lecture announcements, emails, posters, videos as well as Facebook. By submitting my nomination, I make a pledge to commit myself daily to the organisation, the Committee and to the students of Newcastle Law School, not only for the term of the Presidency, but also as the Immediate Past President in 2017. I recognise that committee members are volunteers who devote their time without payment. I promise to always ensure that those contributions never go unrecognised or unappreciated. I want 2015/2016 to be another positive year, which I hope starts with your support for my nomination to be President!

NOMINEES Vice President (Education) SAMANTHA BALDWIN I am a penultimate year Bachelor of (Honours)/Diploma of Legal Practice student.

Laws

I have been an active member of the UNLSA since my first year, representing our student body as the Junior Student Representative in 2012-2013. My passion for advocating for a quality legal education grows from an understanding of how incredibly lucky we are to gain our skills and knowledge in a supportive and encouraging environment. It will be our role in the future to use these skills for the benefit of our community, whether practicing law or otherwise enjoying the vast career opportunities available to us. I believe that most importantly, a quality education stems from a wide range of opportunities, including competitions and other practical experiences afforded to us with the University of Newcastle Legal Centre. I will continue the dialogue with the Newcastle Law School to ensure that the graduates we produce possess this well regarded and unique, practical background. I am approachable, friendly, enthusiastic, positive and determined. In the role of Vice President (Education) I will continue to promote the UNLSA’s local and national reputation of being passionate and down to earth advocates for legal education. To do so requires a strong voice, a quality that can be seen in previous holders of this role, in order to remind the wider community of the consummate legal professionals that are coming out of Newcastle. My ability to serve with a passion was evident in my role as Junior Representative, however those who know me believe I reproduce this attitude in all aspects of life. Having attended ALSA conferences for competitions in the past, I have had the opportunity to witness the importance of a hard-working Newcastle presence and would like to emanate this dedication. It would be an honour to take on the role of Vice President (Education) in 2015-2016 to ensure that we can all receive the most powerful and rewarding education possible.

NOMINEES Vice President (Events) MICKAELA MATE AND LAUREN GROSS Hello! We are Mickaela Mate and Lauren Gross and we are nominating for the position of VP (Events). We are both very interested in events put on by the Law Society, having been to Law Ball, Law Revue and other events over our three years at UoN. We would love the opportunity to become part of the UNLSA, which has already helped both of us to enjoy our experience at Law School! We both have previous experience that will aid us in completing the tasks involved in this role. Lauren was a member of her High School Formal Committee and was heavily involved in organising the event. Mickaela was part of the McMaster International and Exchange Student Club (MIX) whilst on exchange in Canada. She was responsible for organising a wine and cheese night, held at the beginning of semester to enable students to meet incoming exchange students, and the end of year Formal, which was a farewell to exchange students. This role involved abiding by the Constitution of MIX, attending weekly meetings and creating interest in attendance of events. This also involved complying with the regulations of our Sponsor, the Hamilton Scottish Rite Club, and providing financial evidence for book-keeping purposes. Mickaela is also interested in sports, and has her Personal Training certifications. She would therefore show an interest in the Director of Sports and Recreations’ activities and be motivated to confer with them regularly. Lauren is a Communication student, and has learnt the theory behind advertising in media, including communication theories and studying audiences. Lauren has experience in advertising, as she has interned for the Cancer Council NSW, where she managed their social media (Facebook and Pinterest) to advertise their nutrition program; Eat it to Beat it. Lauren also wrote media releases and blog posts promoting the program to their audience. She will have no problem advertising UNLSA social events. Furthermore, Lauren is majoring in Journalism, and has a lot of knowledge about and passion for writing. This is her second consecutive year of being an editor for Yak Magazine, in which she writes articles for the print and digital platforms at least twice a month. This role shows her commitment to attending weekly meetings, in which she pitches article ideas and collaborates with others. We are both interested in current legal issues, and would enjoy researching them and contributing to Justicia. Furthermore, we are both third year law students with excellent time management skills. Lauren balances her university studies and readings, with a voluntary internship, her Yak commitments, paid employment and social life. Mickaela has three part time jobs, one in Sydney with a criminal law firm, and thus has to coordinate her studies and social life around her work commitments. Lauren and Mickaela have agreed to set aside sufficient time to meet face to face in order to ensure that the events are planned well and are successful. These meetings would be supported by other correspondence to make sure we are up to date with planning. We are nominating ourselves for this position because we believe in the UNLSA and its values, especially the way in which it develops a law student’s networks. It would be an honour for us to become more involved with the law community.

NOMINEES Vice President (Events) AESHA AWAN AND MADELINE PYWELL You may know Aesha from her multiple appearances in Law Revue, this year playing the Dean. She was also Junior Representative of the UNLSA this past year, making lecture announcements & running various BBQ and breakfast events. A friendly face that is almost always present at all UNLSA events. Aesha understands the complex dynamics of running an event, no matter how big or small, as she has been apart of small activities and large annual events e.g Law Revue. Aesha has also been Vice President of Amnesty International in the past year, having organised several events in relation to that. As a result, she understands the importance of the minor details during the organisation of an event. Madeline, who prefers to be called Maddie, is a social butterfly with an eye for detail who enjoys ensuring that all social events are entertaining and successful. Maddie currently works with children with disabilities and plays a large role in ensuring that their daily activities, and annual events, run smoothly and efficiently. Maddie knows that her strengths lie in organising and spreading the word for social events, and these will shine through if elected. Furthermore, by working for a non-for profit organisation, Maddie understands the importance of giving back to the community and intends to continue the relationship between the wider community and the UNLSA through her involvement in events. Together, Aesha & Maddie have a strong vision for the future of events in the UNLSA. This includes another successful, funny Law Revue, where cast members can enjoy themselves and audiences laugh until they cry. In regards to the annual Law Ball, Aesha & Maddie intend to ensure that it keeps running as a successful event. Law Ball is one of the many highlights of the UNLSA year and both nominees understand how crucial it is that the night runs smoothly to ensure that it is an event to remember. Maddie & Aesha understand the importance of social events in bringing together students and providing positive study breaks throughout the year. Aesha & Maddie also understand that their role extends beyond the organisation of annual events and they are prepared to assist all directors in fulfilling their positions successfully. In regards to advertising, both nominees look forward to utilising their previous experience in the promotion of events and successfully increase the UNLSA member attendance to organised activities. Maddie & Aesha are willing to dedicate themselves to the entirety of this position, as well as sprinkling a little of bit of their vibrant personalities into each and every event.

NOMINEES Vice President (Administration) CHRISTOPHER LAIDLER

For those who I haven’t met yet, I’m a fourth year undergrad law student. You may recognise me as the current Director of Social Justice (Equity and Diversity) on the UNLSA committee. In that position I organised our Social Justice Forum in semester 1 (“The Spying Game: Mandatory Metadata Retention and You”), and our cornerstone social justice event, the Women in Law Breakfast, which is coming up in October. You may also know me from my extensive work in the Newcastle Law Revue. I joined the cast in 2012, but in the years since then I have taken on a number of production roles as well. I have been the lead script writer and editor since 2013 and the video director since 2014. In this year’s production, Law Actually, I also took on the roles of director, choreographer, and video editor. I have been a member of the UNLSA committee for the past two years. In 2013/14 I was elected as the Senior Student Representative, and in 2014/15 I was elected as Director of Social Justice (Equity and Diversity). In my time on the committee I have gained a working knowledge of how the UNLSA operates. I have a working knowledge of the main provisions of our constitution and our bylaws, as well as an understanding of the practicalities of the UNLSA’s grassroots operations. My term as Senior Student Representative places me in an excellent position to guide and assist the incoming student representatives. I have been in their shoes before, and as Vice President of Administration I will be able to fully support them in carrying out their duties. As I mentioned above, I have also done extensive work in a production capacity for the law revue. As the lead script writer/editor, it is my responsibility to manage the scriptwriting process, ensuring that a balanced, workable script is completed on time in preparation for the show. Further, my role on the directing team of this year’s revue has taught me skills in leading large teams of people, managing and resolving interpersonal issues, as well as the day-to-day running of a complex organisation. These experiences and skills put me in good stead to uphold the high standard of proficiency expected of the UNLSA committee. Further, as a final point, my administrative skills and experience are also exemplified through my work with a local practitioner, John Hollier. I have been working with Mr Hollier for 3 years as his office clerk, and as such I have been in charge of maintaining the administrative aspects of his firm. My position involves ensuring the firm’s ongoing compliance with legal practice rules and regulations, maintaining Mr Hollier’s compliance with his Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) that is expected of all solicitors, as well as the general maintenance of the office’s filing systems. As Vice President of Administration, I will maintain – and hopefully exceed – the high expectations our students have of the UNLSA as your voice on campus. I hope I can count on your vote. Chris

NOMINEES Vice President (Finance and Marketing) SAM CARMAN Hi I’m Sam Carman. I’m in 4th year and have just completed a very enjoyable term as Director of IT. This past year I have been working hard on several goals that I set for myself in the fulfilling of the role. A primary goal was to respond to emails and promotion requests as soon as possible; often within the hour and a significant majority within the day. Another was the implementation of graphically designed fullhtml emails for our main events and newsletter. Finally, the UNLSA online store is a project I’ve been working on since this time last year and is almost ready to be opened to the public. Regardless of how this election turns out I’m very excited that members will for the first time be able to buy and sell textbooks using Paypal (and cash), and to order specific books, jumpers, and other products online. From dealing closely with most committee members this year I’ve learned of the commitment and skill that goes into each portfolio, and the important role that support positions have in making each of the UNLSA’s events and programs a success. I believe that the Vice President Finance and Marketing is in a unique position to support the organisation, and as such there are several angles that, if elected, I would approach this position from. First and most importantly, the role of VP Finance and Marketing is to plan for the oncoming term and budget for all of the activities for that year. Having engaged with many of the UNLSA’s activities, such as the local, ALSA, and Gibbs moots, social and social justice events, I understand the benefit that all of the different portfolios provide. In order to execute events, programs, and publications at the high level of quality that we’ve seen in the last four years the committee needs to be able to rely on the budget and receive ongoing support. If elected, my aim is to set expectations early and support the Directors and VPs all the way up until their event is completed. Thanks to the 2015 holder of this position, budget trackers from the events and programs of 2015 will help the 2016 committee assess and plan for contingencies may not have been thought of otherwise. As well as this I can commit to being accessible and vigilant in dealing with the day to day financial requirements of the organisation including (amongst others) the maintenance of accounts and books. Furthermore I can present myself well and in a professional manner when engaging with the Law School, Student Services, and various other entities with which we hold professional relationships. I believe that there are sources of funding that the organisation has yet to fully realise and I am committed to maximising wherever possible incoming funds whilst wisely planning out the use of expenditures. The organisation has been maintained and developed with skill and integrity since 1994, and I would be honoured to have a part to play in the continuing valuable service that it provides to us in the law school.

NOMINEES Vice President (Sponsorship) BRENT INGHAM Who am I? I am 23 years of age and currently in my fourth year of the undergraduate combined degree program Laws/Commerce (Finance). I have grown up in Newcastle and Coffs Harbour. I enjoy sports and coaching, music and spending time with friends and family. I currently clerk at James Downer Chambers Newcastle, assisting in any manner I am capable. Why Me? The importance of sponsorship to any student organisation cannot be overstated. Sponsorship is essential to the continued success of UNLSA competitions, events, forums and social functions. The position of VP (Sponsorship) is one which transcends the entirety of the UNLSA. If elected, I will have a substantial positive impact upon the UNLSA as I have the requisite skills to effectively complete the role of VP (Sponsorship). I am a confident person who displays excellent manners and communication skills. I enjoy negotiation and am quick to develop rapport with others. My positive attitude and calm demeanour allow me to assess problems with clarity. I present myself in a respectful manner in all professional situations and strive for excellence in all my endeavours. Goal My goal is to maintain the association’s healthy relationship with current sponsors and to ensure the continuing success of UNLSA operations. In addition, I will also make every effort to procure additional sponsorship, focusing particularly upon obtaining new sponsorship from local businesses. I believe that with additional sponsorship and funding the UNLSA will be able to enhance the student university experience and foster a fun and positive environment for years to come.

NOMINEES Director of Social Justice (Equity and Diversity) NICOLE JOHNSON I believe that there are too many people that don’t think, or know, what their rights are, from students to small business owners. They are convinced that they have to just ‘put up’ with, and accept whatever comes their way. Educating people about what their rights really are, and the reality of fighting for those rights, is something that underpins the reason I enrolled in Law, and I hope that it becomes a major part of my working life as a lawyer. Being a mature age student I have the life skills that mean I am able to see beyond the issues presented, to what may lie behind them. I also have the ability to talk to a wide variety of people in a way they understand. My work history has included liaising with government departments, and previous volunteer work with Lifeline, put me in contact with people at risk, and the community groups that support them. Director of Social Justice (Equity and Diversity) JACINTA MORTELL My name is Jacinta Mortell, and I am nominating for the position of Director of Social Justice. I am deeply passionate about all areas of social justice, and it is this passion that has motivated and driven both my university studies and my extracurricular volunteer and advocacy activities. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Laws/Arts, with a double major in Sociology & Anthropology, and Politics & International Relations. As well as this, I volunteer as a court support worker for the Criminal Justice Support Network (Intellectual Disability Rights Service), and run The Young Women’s Social Justice Collective. One of my core passions is social justice, diversity and equity within both the legal system and the legal community. Through study and volunteer work, I have discovered that equality within the legal system and legal community is fundamental to ensuring a fair and inclusive society, and a central tenet in addressing disadvantage and inequality. Because of my passion and commitment to equity, diversity and social justice, and the skills, insight and knowledge I have gained through my tertiary study, work with the local community, and volunteer work, I believe I would make an excellent addition to the UNLSA as the Director of Social Justice. Through this work, I have developed strong networking and advocacy skills, and established a number of strong working relationships, that would allow me to effectively liaise with legal support groups, business, government and the wider community to best represent the equity, diversity and social justice interests of UNLSA members. I believe these skills would allow me to not only co-ordinate, but strengthen the relationships of the UNLSA with external legal support groups, including the Women Lawyers Association (WLA) and the Criminal Justice Support Network (CJSN). I strongly support and am passionate about the core aims and principles of these organisations, and have a strong working relationship with the Hunter Regional Co-Ordinator of CJSN.

NOMINEES As Director of Social Justice, I would work hard to actively and compassionately provide support and assistance to members who are under-represented in the legal community, or face serious hindrance to their studies. I would work with members, the Vice President of Education and the wider Committee to ensure the UNLSA takes a proactive approach to address these issues. I would also use the passion, knowledge and skills I have acquired to organise and promote events to identify and explore social justice issues among members. I would work to actively represent these issues, and the interests of members, to the UNLSA committee and ensure that at all times the Committee acknowledges and considers them in its planning and decision making. Finally, I would work with Justica to prepare a report or article on issues of equity, diversity and social justice, and invite relevant commentators to submit articles to be published in Justica.

Director of Social Justice (Equity and Diversity) AESHA AWAN I’m Aesha Awan and I am nominating for the position of Director of Social Justice. I am the current years outgoing Junior Representative and this year’s Vice President of Amnesty. Being on the Amnesty exec I have a deep understanding of social justice issues and how to run events to address these. In this role I have gained a variety of skills which include being able to network with other groups, and organising various forms. I would use these skills to ensure that all UNLSA social justice events are successful. I would also hope to extend the ties the UNLSA has to community and ensure that it continues to activity represent the equity and diversity interests of members. Having previously been on the UNLSA committee I also understand the importance of liaising with other committee member to ensure that issues are acknowledge and solutions are found. With my skills and expertise having been heavily been involved in other social justice organisation I am the ideal candidate for this position, and would give a hundred percent to ensure all events are a success.

NOMINEES Director of Sport and Recreation MATTHEW BARTER I believe I will be able to fulfil the specific requirements of Director of Sports and Recreation because of my wealth of experience organising and promoting a range of sporting and recreation activities in government and private organisations. Positions I have previously held in the Newcastle community include: a) b) c) d)

Redhead Surf-Lifesaving Club Captain; Dudley Redhead Soccer Club Captain; Northern NSW Futsal State Captain; and Newcastle Grammar School Senior Swimming Captain

During my time in the above sporting representative roles, I was required to organise and promote a range of activities for members and represent their interests to the club, school, government and community. Further, I was required to represent each organisation at fundraising events, competitions, charity events and deliver speeches at ceremonies and award nights. I have also been involved in the following roles in a managerial capacity: a) Neil Owens NSW Football Academy Coach; b) Hamilton Olympic Soccer U/15’s Coach; and c) Newcastle Grammar School Futsal Coach During these roles I was responsible for organising competitions, administration and fostering a healthy, competitive environment for all as well as delivering a positive experience. I am deeply passionate about sport and believe it is an important outlet during an otherwise stressful degree. I have competed at or above NSW State Championship level in triathlon, cross country, swimming, surf lifesaving, soccer, futsal and athletics. I would love to share my passion for sport amongst the Law School community. Director of Sport and Recreation STEPHANIE BECKEDAHL My personal interest and experience in sports and recreation make me an incredibly suitable candidate for the role of Director of Sports and Recreation in 2015. As the Head of Media and Communications at the Central Coast Academy of Sport, my role requires me to have an extensive knowledge of a plethora of sports. It also requires keen skills in Public Relations, Communications and Media, which is strengthened by my undergraduate degree in Communications. This translates to an inherent ability to engage with potential and current sponsors as well as other faculties and law schools. I also have a strong personal interest and involvement in many sporting teams and organisations. My experience across various codes of sport (netball, basketball, AFL, rugby, touch football, tennis, athletics) and roles that I have taken on (player, coach, trainer, umpire, referee) mean that I have experience and knowledge of the requirements involved in organising teams and competitions. I feel that both my personal and professional experience have given me the skills and ability to successfully represent the Association’s sporting and recreational interests and to organise and promote sport and recreation within the Law School and inter-varsity/ interfaculty events throughout the upcoming year, as well as promoting the physical and mental wellbeing of UNLSA members through exercise and healthy living.

NOMINEES Director of Social Events STEPHANIE MARIE ELIZABETH HAWES Hello there, my whole name is Stephanie Marie Elizabeth Hawes. But you can call me Steph. I am currently a 4th year student doing Option A (I went on exchange…). My ‘other’ degree was Social Science majoring in Human Geography. I am 22 years young and love dancing, laughing, singing (not well), taking group selfies and procrastinating from studying usually at the beach… On a very practical level, I feel my interests are very suited to organizing, attending and thriving at social events. I thoroughly enjoy a good party, and as a result usually end up organizing most of the ones I attend. This is because, if you want something done well, you should do it yourself. On a more serious note, I have a lot of experience, skills, contacts and passion in the area. This year I was one of three on a committee that successfully organized a Charity Ball which 250 people attended and a 160 person wait list. The event sold out in 48 hours, and rose over $18,000 for a local Domestic Violence Refuge. It was a hit! We had a number of celebrity guests, a silent auction and rocking dancefloor. Additionally, in 2014 I assisted in the organization for the Melbourne Cup event at The Junction Hotel which hosted 200 people and included a food and beverage package with live entertainment. Finally, my employment at a number of hospitality venues around Newcastle, including Fanny’s (it will never be Argyle), Surfhouse, The Junction Hotel, King Street and the Terrace Bar means I have some friends in good places. This will hopefully assist in the smooth running of the events which I hope to be directing!

NOMINEES Director of Competitions (Skills) MORGAN CHERRY AND ROSE DOUGHERTY Hi! Our names are Rose and Morgan and we’d love to be voted as your Directors of Competitions (Skills) for 2016. We are both 4th year Professional Program Students who completed our other (less fun) degrees in 2014 – Rose in Communications and Morgan in Arts. In recent months, we came to the realisation that (sadly) our time at Law School is quickly coming to an end. So, we thought we owed the UNLSA and its members something in return for all the free BBQs and free King St drink cards that we have taken advantage of over the years! After a quick chat, we settled on the idea of nominating for a Committee position as our way of saying thanks. If elected, we aim to meet and exceed the high standard set by the current directors and will work with the elected committee to do much more than just organise a few competitions at the Law School. Instead, we have a vision to reach out to as many of our members as we can to encourage them to participate in competitions – a vision we plan to execute with proficiency and professionalism. That way, by the end of our tenure, the law school will well positioned to continue the success it has enjoyed in Negotiation and Client interviewing both at ALSA and other external competitions. Having spent almost 17 years (from Kinder until now!) studying together, as a team we would exhibit a high level of co-operation and coordination to fulfil what is an important yet highly rewarding role. We believe we are the perfect combination for the position and, as active UNLSA members, would be proud to represent Newcastle Law School and give back to its members so that we can end our time here with a bang.

NOMINEES Director of Competitions (Advocacy) JESSICA LIGHTON My name is Jessica Lighton and I am nominating for the Director of Competitions (Advocacy) position. I believe that I can fulfil the position requirements, specifically organising the competitions themselves and co-ordinating the competitors, based on my ability to communicate across various age groups and backgrounds, experienced organisational skills and a passion for advocacy competitions. To the UNLSA generally, I believe I can contribute my experience as a third year student, previous involvement in UNLSA activities and a desire to actively support the UNLSA. Skills and Prior Experience: •

Ability to communicate with people across all age groups: I volunteer with Marine Rescue NSW where I interact with a broad range of ages and backgrounds. I also work in retail which has given me valuable communication skills and experience.

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Good organisational skills including time management:

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Prior experience of the advocacy competitions: I have competed in teams in the senior and junior mooting, having won the junior moot competition in 2013 and 2014. As such, I have valuable insight into how the competitions are organised and the resources required for them to operate efficiently.

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Experience in training organisation: I have been involved, usually unofficially in the organisation of a variety of activities and exercises, particularly with Marine Rescue NSW.

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I work well in a team environment and am happy to work with a sub-committee to coordinate multiple competitions.

Director of Competitions (Advocacy) INDIA MONAGHAN AND TOM HINDS Hi folks, we are India Monaghan and Tom Hinds, first year law students keen on getting more involved in the UNLSA. I (India) have been involved in many extracurricular activities over the past few years and in all aspects of law student life so far. This has included being a cast member of the Law Revue, volunteering at and attending competitions and events run by the UNLSA. I have been a member of the Newcastle Relay for Life committee for the past three years and have recently been awarded my Gold Duke of Edinburgh. An active member of the UNLSA with time and energy to spare, I (Tom) want to achieve the best for our membership and the wider legal faculty. As a floor supervisor with over 7 years

NOMINEES hospitality experience, I know how to effectively communicate and coordinate with other whilst balancing competing demands for my time. As an active member of the Rural Fire Service since 2013, I know the operational logistics of being a member within a fast-paced emergency relief establishment. We are the sort of people who really like to be involved and to help others. This is why we have applied for this role. We believe that we will be able to effectively work together to ensure that the mooting and witness examinations competitions run smoothly and efficiently. We have excellent organisational and planning skills and are willing to assist with any matter and in any capacity needed. We are both positive, outgoing people who are passionate about the UNLSA and promoting participation in the competitions.

NOMINEES Director of Careers (Events) STUART KOVACS My name is Stuart Kovacs, and I am nominating for the Director of Careers (Events) position. I am currently a second year law student, in a combined degree of Law/Commerce. How often are you asked by your friends, family, or perhaps total strangers what you want to do after university? Is it a continual reminder that you have very little idea where you want this degree to take you? Do you ever rehash a formulaic response of “I want to be a human rights lawyer and uphold social justice everywhere I go”? Obviously there is no rush in making these decisions. And although it is critical to have these romantic social justice aspirations about the law, it is equally important to be pragmatic about the countless opportunities a law degree can provide you with, especially upon graduating. I consider the Director of Careers Events as a position which endeavours to provide leadership in the following: -

Organising and coordinating events which provides an engaging experience for law students to consider the many careers opportunities before them

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To always be well informed as to current and up-coming careers events opportunities not just at Newcastle University, but in the local community and Sydney.

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To be a sounding board for the concerns of law students; relaying and amplifying them to those who can provide helpful advice if I am unqualified to do so myself

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Support fellow UNLSA directors and executives, as well as all law students

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Continually help grow and foster the positive culture which exists here at the Newcastle Law School

I’m extremely capable of achieving all that is required of me and much more for this position. I’m a diligent worker, I embrace responsibility and am a clear communicator. Regardless of being elected or not, leadership in any capacity is something we should all strive towards, and I’ll always go out of my way in providing help and assistance to others whenever and wherever needed.

NOMINEES Director of Careers (Publications) ANDREW SUNOL AND JARED RESEVSKY

About us: Jared and Andrew are both Newcastle locals and entered the University of Newcastle Law School in 2012. Together we have an extremely diverse range of life experiences and qualities that we believe make us suitable to this role, and beneficial to the wider law school. Jared has studied internationally in the United States, is a firm believer in investing in one’s self, and encourages others to take time to read, set goals, practice mindfulness, look after their bodies and help others. Jared has experience and success within the challenging realm of career progression as he has recently achieved a summer internship with the high profile company of PWC. Likewise, Andrew has experience in this regard, with two years’ experience serving as an officer in the Royal Australian Navy, after enduring a rigorous and highly competitive selection process. This has given him a diverse range of skills in management, teamwork and leadership characteristics. Our hobbies include yoga, surfing, weightlifting, sports, fitness, reading, community engagement, all things business or political; with Andrew and Jared recently beginning to delve into stockbroking. You will often find us enjoying a morning coffee whilst immersed in the Financial Review or researching various companies on the stock market. Our focus: With a struggling job market, specifically for Law Graduates, our aim is to develop the opportunities available to local Law students and make these easily accessible. Additionally, we hope to utilise our experiences to build extensive alliances with local business partners to develop the opportunities of the school in future years to come. We will strive to build a stellar reputation for University of Newcastle law students within the legal community; specifically, one of practicable skills, teamwork, dedication and passion.

NOMINEES Director of Local Sponsorship ADELE NEWCOMBE My name is Adele Newcombe and I would love the opportunity to become the Director of Local Sponsorship. I am currently in my third year, undertaking a Bachelor of Laws and Social Science, majoring in Politics and International Relations. When I was in primary school my dad asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I told him that I had no idea but I wanted to wear a business suit to work and help people. I believe this bright ambition led me to my career path in Law and Social Science. Now let me tell you how I will fulfill the role as Director of Local Sponsorship. I will bring to this position, a desire to establish a rapport with people, a genuine passion for the legal profession and a positive and organised approach to every aspect of my responsibilities. The UNLSA is a fundamental agency that provides students with the opportunity to connect with their peers, establish connections within the legal profession, challenge themselves by participating in competitions and unwind at regular social events. Each of these important aspects of the UNLSA’s services would not be possible without the ongoing support and guidance of its sponsors. Ps I don’t like taking photos of myself, so this was the most recent one that I could find. It just happened to be in costume.

NOMINEES Director of Marketing and Design No nominations. Nominations will be taken from the floor. If you have any questions about the role you can contact Genevieve Howe at [email protected]

NOMINEES Director of Student Publications ERIN RICHARDSON My name is Erin Richardson and I am a third year Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws student. Given that I have completed an undergrad with a major in English with distinction, I feel that I would be able to perform the position of student publications quite well. I have a good grasp of grammar and punctuation. Further, I also know what is expected of online academic legal publications as I was recently in charge of editing and writing workplace relations blogs in my role as an intern at King and Wood Mallesons

NOMINEES Director of Information Technology CHRISTOPHER LAIDLER

Hi, I’m Chris Laidler. You might know me from such biographical profiles as my application for VP Administration (see above), or my bio in the program for law revue. I am an active member of the UNLSA and the law school community, and I have been since I started here in 2011. In 2013/14 I took on the role of Senior Student Representative, and in the current term I was elected as Director of Social Justice (Equity and Diversity). I have also done extensive work in the law revue. Since I started working on the revue, I have taken on a number of production roles including: lead script writer/editor, director, video director, that guy who remembers everyone else’s lines, choreographer, caterer, video editor, taxi, the list goes on and on. A few years back I underwent a complex medical experiment wherein I had a microchip implanted in my brain giving me a round-the-clock internet connection. Unfortunately something went wrong and instead of having an encyclopaedic knowledge of the law, I ended up with an extensive knowledge of obscure comedies and mildly-satisfying word play. While this accident makes me a terrible law student, it does give me advanced skills in meme generation and social media. I have experience writing and maintaining databases, as well as maintaining a functioning website. I have even built my own computer from scratch. In short, I have the skills and the know-how to make the most of this position. I hope you will give me this opportunity.

NOMINEES Junior Student Representative NATALIE WILLIAMS My name is Natalie Williams and as a current Student Mentor with the UON Mentor Program and a Permanent volunteer with the Hunter Community Legal Centre I feel that the skills I have learnt from these rolls will fulfil the specific requirements of the Junior Representative and contribute generally to the UNLSA. In my capacity as a Student Mentor I have actively engaged with the student body and have provided students with educational experiences, access to information that they are affected by and have also organised social meetings to provide peer support and advice. My success in connecting with students as their mentor will allow me to uphold the values of the UNLSA by promoting interests of law students within the university, legal profession and the community at large. Additionally, the comprehensive knowledge and confidence to support students that I have gained from this role will be effective in connecting with the fellow law student cohort and performing the duties of a Junior Representative. During my tenure as a volunteer with the Hunter Community Legal Centre, I have acquired professional capabilities through community engagement and assessing client intake from minority and disadvantaged groups. The relationships I have formed with members in the Newcastle Legal Profession, external constituencies and government agencies are beneficial to seek avenues from both on campus and through external sources for student support. Recently I had the responsibility of organising and representing the HCLC at the UON Volunteer’s Expo for 2015 and advocated the centre’s mission of improving access to legal services in the Hunter region. My involvement in these activities enhances my ability to fulfil key roles that the Junior Representative is responsible for, like organising the second-hand bookstore and announcing UNLSA news in lectures. I have a strong sense of student identity within the Newcastle Law School and regularly partake in extra-curricular activities such as competitions, subcommittee activities like Moot time keeping, and volunteering with the UON Legal Centre. My passion to develop academic and social experiences at law school will contribute to the UNLSA through my enthusiasm to foster enriching relationships between fellow students, staff and the association by promoting a collegial spirit among members. Junior Student Representative SARAH JAMES Hey everyone! My name is Sarah and you may recognise me from the various functions the UNLSA has hosted this year – I haven’t missed one yet! Throughout the year I have immersed myself as fully as possible into the law student experience, as I didn’t want to feel as if I had missed out on an opportunity. I would love the chance to share my experience with other and future law students, and believe being the junior representative would be the perfect platform to do so. I believe I would be able to satisfy the requirements of the role as I have without a doubt made the most of my first year, and plan on continuing my commitment to the UNLSA. I’m passionate about what the UNLSA does for students, and it is the primary reason why I love the degree I’m doing. I think what I’ve learnt this year would really be able to benefit other students. Thus far I have made an absolute fool of myself singing and dancing at Law Revue, just made a general fool of myself at all the law parties, and have also participated in client interviewing and junior mooting competitions. Due to these experiences, I think I’d be able to be a great asset to the UNLSA.

NOMINEES Graduate Student Representative MICHAEL O’DONOHUE BA, GradDipEd, DipLang, GradCertEd Graduate student seeking the position of Graduate Student Representative. I’m keen to represent the interests of fellow graduates and contribute to the Association. I also want to encourage students to join and participate in the Association. I have a teaching background – English, History and Latin.

NOMINEES International Student Representative No nominations. Nominations will be taken from the floor. If you have any questions about the role you can contact Taija Knoll at [email protected]

NOMINEES Senior Student Representative ANDREW O’BEID Hi everyone. My name’s Andrew: I’m currently in third year and I’m running for Senior Student Representative. A bit about me: I’m almost done with a science degree, majoring in physics. I abandoned my dream of being a physicist in Year 10 when I got involved in high school mock trial and went “Hey! The law’s actually pretty cool!”, but you have to do something in a combined degree, so I picked the one with lasers. I like being at uni, and I like studying law. When I’m not studying law, I’m usually ‘doing science!’, socialising or watching television. I like getting involved in law school life, particularly in competitions: during my two and a half years I’ve competed in mooting, client interviewing and witness examination, and I’m competing in the Kirby contracts moot at the end of September. I work in a hospital at the moment, and I’m looking forward to beginning Option B placements next year. I love meeting new people and chatting about what’s going on (I’m that person who uses the word ‘hashtag’ way too often in casual conversation) so I think I’d be a great rep for all of you. I’ll take any concerns you raise and make sure they’re dealt with the right way.

NOMINEES Indigenous Student Representative RACHEL JOYCE My name is Rachael Joyce, I am a fourth year law student and I would like to run for the position of Indigenous Representative. As I currently hold the position I believe it would be good to maintain my role. 2015 was the first real year the position was held and I believe there is still a lot more I can do in terms of being an advocate for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander law students. My experience in the position this year has given me many ideas for the position in the coming years that were unable to get running this year. I am a passionate Aboriginal law student and I believe that it is essential to have a strong advocate for Indigenous students who are too intimidated to voice concerns of their own. In the past year of being Indigenous representative I was able to make connections with the students and help them address issues in relation to study, university life and general cultural sensitivity issues. I would love to hold the position again as I believe I can continue to be an advocate for my people and more importantly my culture. It has been a thoroughly enjoyable position and I have big plans for the position in 2016.

Indigenous Student Representative NICHOLAS DOYLE Nick identifies as many thing: a "MasterChef" a "gym junkie", as well as an Indigenous Australian. He hopes that this diversity, combined with his desire to concoct the most divine lemon curd known to man, will one day earn him a nomination for Australian of the Year. But in the mean time, he hopes it'll be enough to get him elected to the UNLSA Executive Committee for the 2015/2016 term. This time two years ago, Nick was overjoyed to be elected Director of Competitions (Skills) alongside Dan Baird. However, this opportunity was not meant to be. Overridden by his untimely, unsuccessful and soul-destroying stint on season six of MasterChef Australia (4th last is still good!). Nick feels his time on reality TV has truly come and gone and is hungry for another bite of the crisp UNLSA apple (hopefully a pink lady). He would relish the opportunity to be elected as the UNLSA’s Indigenous Representative for the position’s second ever term. Nick hails from a small country town with quite a large indigenous population. He knows of, and believes in, the importance of promoting educational opportunities to indigenous students. Nick also tutors for Wollotuka and has strong connections with many different university groups, due to his employment, volunteer work, and community involvement. He feels he can use these connections and insight to help promote UNLSA events, as well as develop and maintain new relationships for the UNLSA. Nick is also an avid team player, can bring baked goods to meetings and does a mean aerobics grapevine (which may be considered an essential life skill).

NOMINEES In his spare time, Nick can be found sipping on a flat white, baking tarts at Baked Uprising, or running 5km in 21 minutes every Saturday morning. He would be delighted to be elected for this position in his last year of law school and thanks you all for reading and considering his nomination.