Issue 74 Contents

2007 WISENET  AGM

Minutes of the 2007 WISENET AGM held on Wednesday 28th March 2007, 6.30pm at the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute, University of Melbourne ICT Building, Melbourne, Victoria.
 

Attendance
Members: Julie Arblaster, Susan Barker*, Ines Carrin*, Sharon Fitzgerald, Nancy Lane, Robyn Porter*, Anna Robinson* (constitution vote only), Sari Ruuska*, Melissa Wakefield, Diane Webster, Amelia Martyn*, Gabi O’Sullivan*, Lynn Abbott*, Kathleen Lamoureux*.

Guests: Ruth Luscombe, Alana Moore, Felisa Vázquez-Abad.

[Those marked * joined via teleconference]
 

Apologies
Sue Brown, Jenny Byrne, Doreen Clark, Julianne Crowley, Jean Fleming, Elspeth Gold, Kate Loveland, Helen MacLean, Sarah Miller, Gina Newton, Jo O’Neil, Helen Pongracic, Ann Sefton, Jan Tennent, Sue Turner, Rosemary White.
 

Minutes from the 2006 AGM
There were no matters arising from the minutes of the 2006 AGM. Diane Webster moved that the minutes published in WISENET Journal Vol 72 be accepted as a true and accurate record of the meeting. Seconded by Robyn Porter.
Accepted unanimously.
 

National Co-convenors Report
The national executive of WISENET moved to Victoria in 2006. The committee got off to a slow start with time spent getting familiar with each other and the workings of WISENET at a national level. We’d like to extend our thanks to the previous executive for their help during and after the transition. Thanks also Alex Reisner for his ongoing care of the WISENET web-site.
 

Discussions continued in 2006 regarding hosting the International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists (ICWES). The bid would be to host the ICWES meeting in 2011. The issues around WISENET being involved in (or leading) a bid relate to workload and financial liability. Engineers Australia have agreed to take financial responsibility for the conference (contact = Peter May), and discussions with the Sydney Convention Bureau indicate that Engineers Australia have formed a subcommittee to discuss the conference. Feedback from members prior to the AGM suggests that most members think that it would be a good idea to be involved with the conference, as long as someone else does the work. Comments at the AGM included the advice to make sure that all communication regarding ‘help’ to organize the conference is clear so that expectations are shared by all parties. The advantages of participating in the conference were highlighted – primarily enhancing our profile and visibility. It was agreed that WISENET should be involved with the conference. Robyn Porter offered to help coordinate WISENET involvement. Diane Webster

Acceptance of the report was moved by Diane Webster, seconded by Susan Barker, passed unanimously.

FASTS activities relevant to WISENET

1. The top issue was Science Education and Higher Education, which appeared to be of particular interest to the Science Minister, Julie Bishop. She commissioned an audit of science skills and a ‘stock take’ of science education called the Australian School Science Education Framework (ASSEF). FASTS organised a Science Education forum in August, but considered that “While working scientists, educators and communicators are well aware there are problems in science education, there is not a shared view on; what the problems are, how they might be addressed, or what role(s) should or could working scientists and their organisations play in science education.” A very interesting article was distributed by email; Scientists and Science Education Reform: Myths, Methods, and Madness by James M. Bower, Co-Director, Caltech Precollege Science Initiative, Associate Professor of Biology, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California.
             In October, 2006 the Minister announced funding for 500 more engineering places at universities, and for a Questacon traveling science education show. In January, 2007 the Minister released a report by ACER on the year 12 curriculum focusing on Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History and English. One conclusion of this report is that there is already a high degree of curriculum consistency in Year 12 Science disciplines across the country.

2. Another area of focus was expenditure on public sector science, its proportion of GDP and benefits from this expenditure. The Treasurer, Peter Costello and the Science Minister, Julie Bishop, announced in March, 2006 that the Productivity Commission would undertake a research study into the economic, social and environmental returns on public support for science and innovation in Australia. FASTS made a submission entitled: Managing uncertainty and risk in science, innovation and preparedness: Why public policy should pay more attention to geopolitical and financial considerations by Dr Mark Matthews. FASTS commented very favourably on the draft report released in November. The final report was released 26 March, 2007 and is available in full on the Productivity Commission’s web site; http://www.pc.gov.au/. The Report notes that the shortage of scientists we’ve been hearing about is primarily a shortage of engineers and science teachers. The report also confirms the conclusions of an earlier assessment of the CRCs (Cooperative Research Centres) released by DEST in October, that the CRCs are clearly of research and economic benefit.
             NCRIS grants were announced in November, comprising $500 million over 5 years for science infrastructure. This comes with a heavy management and bureaucratic impost, and considerable requirement for matching funding from the institutions receiving NCRIS grants.

3. The RQF (Research Quality Framework) discussions occupied universities and FASTS throughout the year. The Productivity Commission Report comments that it is not clear that the benefits from this exercise will be greater than the cost.

4. Note that three women won Science Prizes in October, 2006. Dr Naomi McClure-Griffths (CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility) won the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year; Anna Davis (Casimir Catholic School, Marrickville, Sydney) won the PM’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools and Marjorie Colvill (Perth Primary School, Tasmania) won the PM’s science prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools. In contrast, note that almost all new Federation Fellowships went to male scientists, as did new Fellowships of ATSE and the Academy of Science.

5. At the FASTS AGM in November, there was a very good presentation about societies, noting that many societies are experiencing steady decline in membership. The workshop included a presentation from Kevin Cahalane, Principal and Co-founder of Membership Growth. Membership Growth is an organisation providing tools, resources and strategies for associations, clubs and other member organisations. Kevin discussed issues and strategies that confront all organisations, including NGOs, of attracting and retaining membership.

6. The ABS (Australian Bureau of Statistics) released the results of their Pregnancy & Employment Transitions Survey, which was conducted as a supplement to the ABS Labour Force Survey in November 2005. This was not specifically focused on women in science, but is available for download by searching the ABS website at http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4913.0. The Minister announced $190,000 in matching funds to support the AVCC’s Action Plan for Women in Universities 2006-2010.

7. We all received this media release about a study of women scientists http://uninews.unimelb.edu.au/articleid_3965. html, which found that while female scientists produce better quality science, they are less productive early in their careers, and thus have to play catch-up to their male counterparts. The main author was Dr Matthew Symonds, Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne.

8. In 2007, FASTS will concentrate on one key theme in media releases/opinion pieces and in lobbying political parties, which will be skills and their relation to productivity (K-12 and tertiary) including funding issues, science education, career pathways (of particular relevance to WISENET). Other main themes will include adaptation to climate change – science, infrastructure, skills and data, internationalisation of science, and preparedness and its relation to why we do public sector science (risk minimisation, public benefits, early warning for industry). Rosemary White

Acceptance of the report was moved by Diane Webster, seconded by Robyn Porter, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report
The report was based on the Profit and Loss Statement and Balance Sheet. These were posted to all members by email and circulated at the meeting. The audit statement was completed on April 4th and is attached to the minutes.

The major cost for 2006 was the journal, including layout, printing and postage. WISENET spent approximately $1,100 more than was received in subscriptions, which were lower than in the previous year. Nonetheless, there is still more than $6,000 in the bank.

In discussion, a question was raised on whether the subscription rate should rise a few dollars in line with the cost of living increase. Comments indicated that $50 could be a barrier to some, particularly since this is an optional rather than the primary professional body for most women scientists.
Nancy Lane

Acceptance of the report was moved by Nancy Lane, seconded by Melissa Wakefield, passed unanimously.

Membership Report
As of March 2007, 154 members were listed in the database, of whom 113 were financial. These numbers represent very similar membership to the previous 2 years.

By member type there were 110 ordinary members, 19 retired members, 14 students, 1 honorary, 2 complimentary, 1 subscription paying institution and 5 other memberships.

Membership was divided amongst the Link Groups as follows
 

It was suggested that direct debit be investigated as an option for payment of subscriptions to assist in membership renewal (ie opt out rather than opt in). This will be investigated. A flier is also to be prepared to clearly articulate the benefits of WISENET membership.

Much discussion also centred around increasing get togethers and networking at a branch level as a way to enhance the interaction between members of the WISENET community.

The importance of coordinating WISENET activities with like-minded groups was raised and will be followed up on by the National Exec and Link groups as opportunities arise.
Julie Arblaster

Acceptance of the report was moved by Julie Arblaster, seconded by Nancy Lane, passed unanimously.

Journal Coordinator’s Report
A report was not filed as the position is currently vacant. Olivia Broadley resigned to pursue other interests overseas. Journal production continues to go well.

The need for a print version of the journal was raised in discussion. However, it should be noted that the major journal cost is layout not printing. Options to reduce the lay-out costs will be investigated.

Reports on link group activities and projects
Reports were presented by Convenors of Link Groups in ACT, NSW-Sydney, and WA. A report from the Qld group was also received but not tabled at the meeting. No other reports were received.

ACT Link Group Report
It has been another steady year for ACT’s group, with a few highlights. A significant event was the transferral of the national convenorship to Victoria, which led to the well deserved retirement of the National Executive, with the exception of Dr. Rosemary White who continues as a National Co-Convenor. Another achievement was the eventually successful production of the ACT edition of the WISENET Journal, which among other things profiled a group of women working in science related public service areas. The third highlight of the year was a lunch meeting with MP Julie Bishop, Minister for Education, Science and Training and the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women’s Issues. Despite her hectic timetable she found time to sit down for an informal discussion about the issues women face in working life. In addition, as usual, ACT members have continued to meet approximately every other month for a lunch, with or without a guest speaker.

The ACT Link Group will now experience some changes, as Dr. Sari Ruuska will be stepping down from the convenor’s post, and the current co-convenor, Dr. Ines Carrin, will be taking that position. We are looking for a new co-convenor. Sari Ruuska and
Ines Carrin

Acceptance of the report was moved by Robyn Porter, seconded by Ines Carrin, passed unanimously.

Sydney Link Group Report
The Sydney WISENET link group has been active on a number of fronts in 2006. Production of J71 in March 2005 has led to increased visibility of the group’s activities, which resulted in Jenny being invited to participate in the open forum “Women in Science” held at the Australian Museum on the occasion of International Women’s Day, 2006. The sad passing of Diana Temple in 29 August 2006 saw a number of members of the Sydney Link group attend her funeral, and a group met for brunch later in September as an informal Diana memorial. The meeting over brunch sowed ideas for a number of articles which were contributed towards the J73 edition. In order to broaden WISENET activities and recruit new members, I joined the Sydney University Network of Women (SUN) group in 2006, and organised a lunch at the University of Sydney where members from both groups were invited to attend. The lunch, which was jointly funded by WISENET and SUN, resulted in a number of attendees either joining or rejoining WISENET, and I made a number of contacts within the University of Sydney which should be useful for future WISENET activities. SUN also forwarded information about WISENET and its activities to all its members. I will also represent WISENET at Science Meets Parliament 2007, which is being held in Canberra on 27-28 March.
 

In terms of future plans, I would like to organise similar joint events between WISENET and other relevant organisations (eg gender equity/ EEO offices, women’s groups) at different campuses around Sydney in coming years. Making contacts with gender equity offices at Universities seems to be a great way of forming strategic alliances which may increase WISENET’s involvement in institutional policy making, as well as potentially increasing WISENET membership. I would also like to investigate the types and quantities of research funding that is made available to promote gender equity within universities and other institutions, with a view to ultimately providing more funding opportunities for researchers whose career paths and activities differ from the traditional “male” model currently favoured by national funding bodies. Research funding to promote gender equity seems to present a sparse and constantly changing landscape in Australia, with little evidence of long term planning either within individual Universities, or at a broader scale. In order to achieve these aims, I may first need to clone myself, but I’ll see how I go! I tend to have more time for WISENET activities in the second part of the year, as grant applications are usually submitted by that stage.

Jennifer Byrne

Acceptance of the report was moved by Diane Webster, seconded by Kathleen Lamoureux, passed unanimously.

WA Link-group Report
Greetings to all WISENET members. I was relieved to discover that it has not been a full 12 months since I prepared my 2006 report. However, sadly, I am tempted just to copy and paste the last one as no progress has been made yet again, on issues of declining membership. Clearly I am part of the problem, but as I have also not managed to recruit a replacement for myself, I will stay on as the nominal coordinator until a replacement volunteers or my recruitment capacity picks up! I am concerned to note that other Link-groups are in a similar position and wonder if this reflects equivalent “value of membership” issues in those states. I note with relief that the constitutional requirement for a rotating location for the National executive does allow for refusal of the job if the local Link group does not want to do it.

To end on a positive note, the coming year will include a Journal issue produced by WA-WISENET and Diane Webster assures me I am on track with the current level of preparation (2 co-editors lined up, 1 article in hand, 2 others perhaps in the pipeline).

Swimmingly yours (ie like a duck).
Susan Barker

Acceptance of the report was moved by Susan Barker, seconded by Diane Webster, passed unanimously.

Qld Link group Report
WISENET QLD members reflecting on the previous year noted that there was great support for further workshops along the lines of our 2006 Career Progression Workshop. However, it was emphasised that this type of workshop was too big for one person to organize. Smaller events organized by active members on a rota basis would be more manageable. The Qld branch would like to keep inviting non-WISENET members to events to improve the visibility of WISENET. However, they may introduce a small charge for non-members to cover costs (e.g. catering). It was acknowledged that the greatest benefit of WISENET were the regular discussions and there was support for continuing these on an 8-week basis. At the most recent meeting Sarah Ashmore’s trip to Science Meets Parliament was discussed, as well as challenges in each of our careers currently. There was support for the next workshop being focused on promotional procedures within universities.

Election of New Members
A vote of thanks was offered to all members resigning from the National Executive.
 

Treasurer: Nancy Lane resigned as treasurer. Nancy is heading to Thailand for two years. Helen MacLean was nominated for the position by Julie Arblaster and elected unopposed.
 

Journal Coordinator: Olivia Broadley resigned as journal coordinator. Olivia has moved to South America as part of a volunteers abroad scheme. No nominations were received for this position.

Link group convenors: Jennifer Westren resigned as the Tasmanian convenor. A replacement has not been found. Wendy Russell resigned as the NSW Wollongong convenor. Lynne Wright is the new Wollongong convenor. The Victorian link group has been without a convenor. Elspeth Gold and Julie Arblaster were nominated as co-convenors and elected.

All new members are welcomed to the National Executive.

Website Matters
Melissa Wakefield provided an update on the websurvey. Only 4 responses were received. Questions were raised about the ability to check membership status or host discussion groups. It was noted that, at present, the list-serv does provide a forum for electronic discussions. Investigations into updating the website are ongoing. The generous help and support of the WISENET website by Alex Reisner was acknowledged.

Amendment of the Constitution
The WISENET constitution is currently in breach of the Associations Incorporation Act (WISENET is incorporated under this Act). The Associations Incorporation Act requires that twenty-one (21) days notice in writing be given to members and that “at least three quarters of the members present” agree to such amendment. Two changes are required to clause 17. Firstly, extending the period of notice for a constitutional change from 15 to 21 days and secondly, allows for a 3/4 majority rather than a consensus vote to change the constitution. A motion was proposed by Robyn Porter, and circulated with the AGM notice (30 days before the meeting), to amend Clause 17 to read:
 

“This Constitution may be amended by a resolution by consensus among members present (comprising at least three quarters of members present) at any Annual General Meeting. Twenty-one (21) days notice in writing (including email) of such amendment shall be given to all members of the Association.”
 

At the AGM Robyn Porter moved that the amendment to clause 17 be accepted. Seconded by Ines Carrin. Those present at the meeting voted unanimously in favour of the amendment. However, as a quorum of 20 is required to pass a constitution change it was necessary to move the meeting to a virtual forum. Members were notified by e-mail and the proposed change was also advertised on the WISENET website. Votes were accepted until 5.30pm on Thursday April 19th. The motion was passed, unanimously, with 50 votes [13 from the initial meeting and 37 from the virtual meeting].

The AGM was officially closed at 5.30pm on Thursday April 19th, 2007 with thanks to all participants.
 

Post-script: It was noted after the meeting that despite apparently stable membership the income from subscriptions for 2006 was substantially less than the preceding 2 years. At first glance this appears to be due to the renewal rate. However, it is being investigated more carefully to determine the cause so that appropriate follow-up action can be taken.

 Issue 74 Contents