ICML 2009

Post Congress Newsletter

2009-09-15T15:48:00.003+10:00

Dear Delegates

The post Congress ICML Newsletter is attached for your information. Many thanks for making ICML a very memorable occasion.

Warm regards

Heather and Lisa

ICML T-Shirts

2009-09-15T13:17:00.002+10:00

If you liked the ICML t-shirts that a few of us wore during the Congress, you can order them from Sunshine Monograms. You can find the t-shirt you like on their web site and they will add the ICML monogram:

www.sunshine-monograms.com

Or email them:

Sunshine@launch.net.au

To Teach the Sick by John Pearn

2009-09-15T12:53:00.004+10:00

To Teach the Sick is a new book just published by the ICML Patron, Professor John Pearn. This is a hardcover book with 372 pages of historical photographs that documents hospital schooling in Queensland. This magnificent book is available for AUD$30 and AUD$10 for postage within Australia. Follow the link for the Order Form.

ICML Newsletter No. 3

2009-08-26T14:46:00.004+10:00

Dear Delegates

ICML Newsletter no. 3 is attached for your information.

Thanks to Jenny Hall, Liaison Librarian, at the Herston Health Sciences Library for compiling the newsletters for ICML delgates.

All the best from your Convenors

Heather Todd and Lisa Kruesi

Upload your ICML 2009 photos to Flickr

2009-08-25T14:59:00.004+10:00

Our official photographer will be roving and taking shots all week; these will be uploaded to the Congress’ Flickr group account (ICML 2009).

We’re also looking forward to seeing your photos on the Flickr page.

If you’re not familiar with Flickr, uploading instructions follow below:

Note: If you have a Mac, Mozilla Firefox may freeze mid photo upload; Safari is OK; Internet Explorer works each time.

Go to Flickr

* Establishment steps:

If you don’t have a Yahoo account – create one

If you don’t have a Flickr account – create one

Join the ICML 2009 group – note: the Group Administrator must approve you. Once approved, you’ll receive an email to your nominated email account, which will contain a link to the ICML 2009 page

Near the top of any Flickr page, use the blue Groups link then enter “ICML 2009” in Find A Group. Click Join?, and an email will be sent to the Group Administrator

Upload your ICML 2009 pictures to your Photostream (from your USB or C:/ drive, etc)

* Next steps:

Allow some time for the Group Administrator to approve your request

If you’ve nominated Yahoo as your email account - login to Flickr, and check your Yahoo email (mail icon is at top right of page). From the Group Administrator’s acceptance email, click the link to ICML 2009

If not using Yahoo email, check your usual email to link to the ICML 2009 group, then login to Flickr

At the ICML 2009 group page, click Add Photos or Video link next to the header Group Pool

Your Photostream will display. Click on a photo to upload – you can add up to six at a time

Click Add to Group

* If you already have a Flickr account; and for subsequent uploads:

On the lower left of the Flickr page under You, click Upload, and upload your ICML 2009 photos to your Photostream (eg. from your USB or C:/ drive)

Once loaded, click on one of your photos

Above each photo and below each title appears a Send to Group icon, second from left

Click this, and choose the ICML 2009 group from the list, then click OK

* To find ICML 2009 in future:

On your Home page, you will find ICML 2009 listed under Your Groups

Delegates from educational facilities, do you know about Eduroam?

2009-08-19T14:44:00.004+10:00

Do you work at an educational facility, in Australia or elsewhere?

Will you be bringing your laptop, PDA, iTouch or similar hardware to ICML?

If you do, make sure you install your home institution’s Eduroam certificate profile and VPN access profile files, preferably before you arrive so your home IT can help troubleshoot.

Eduroam (EDUcation ROAMing) is the roaming infrastructure used by the international research and education community that provides the Eduroam user experience: open your laptop and be online.

Being part of Eduroam allows users to access a wireless network at a visited institution (also connected to Eduroam) simply using the same credentials (for instance, username and password) the users would use if they were at their home institution.

For example, if you are attending ICML Continuing Education sessions at The University of Queensland’s campuses, you will be able to use Eduroam on your enabled hardware.

Eligible institutions

St Lucia campus wireless hotspots map

Rural Health Librarians Lunch Fri 4 Sept

2009-08-19T13:35:00.001+10:00

Join librarians working in rural areas or supporting rural health services for an informal lunch on Friday 4 September. Collect your conference lunch box and then meet us in the foyer of the Congress venue just after 12.30pm. We'll go to Southbank Parklands for a picnic. This is another chance to catch up with like minded people, especially if you can't attend the rural health dinner on Wednesday night. Contact Kaye Lasserre with any queries: k.lasserre@library.uq.edu.au

More events on in Brisbane during ICML

2009-08-18T16:37:00.001+10:00

Take a look at a new page on the ICML website, listing more events within walking distance of the Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre.

They’re listed under a few broad groupings: Aboriginal Themes, History, Art, Fashion, Food, Performance, Exercise / Sports, and Miscellaneous.

Enjoy Brisbane!

Free Concert Sunday Afternoon 30 August

2009-08-16T10:15:00.003+10:00

Dear Delegates

There is a free concert on Sunday 30 August at 3 pm until 4 pm, live from the ABC Ferry Road Music Centre, West End, Brisbane. You must be seated by 2.50 pm for a live broadcast that begins promptly at 3 pm. Concert details:

The Endeavour Trio with Paul Dean (clarinet), Stephen Emmerson (piano) and Louise King (cello). Known for their musical excellence and adventurous programming. They will be performing Beethoven's Trio in B flat for Piano, Clarinet and Cello, Op 11, Andrew Schultz's After Nina and Frankel's Clarinet Trio, Op 10.

Ferry Street is a twenty minute walk along the Brisbane River from South Bank. Going up River past the State Library and GOMA.

ICML Newsletter No. 2

2009-08-14T12:25:00.003+10:00

Dear Delegates

ICML Newsletter no. 2 is attached for your information. Get ready for an action packed time Down Under.

All the best from your Convenors

Heather Todd and Lisa Kruesi

ICML Newsletter

2009-08-05T16:34:00.005+10:00

Dear Delegates

We hope you will find our first issue of the ICML Newsletter informative. We are counting down the days to the Congress!

All the best from your Convenors

Heather Todd and Lisa Kruesi

ICML Rural Health Dinner

2009-08-04T16:07:00.003+10:00

If you are working for a Rural Clinical School or providing services for rural and remote communities you may like to meet with other like minded people over dinner on the evening of Wednesday 2 September. It will be a great opportunity to chat about what we do and find out what others are doing. We have booked a table at Ottoman's which is close to the Congress venue and can accommodate a large group. We have a small party already and would welcome more join us for a merry evening, commencing 7.15 onwards. Please email j.hansen@library.uq.edu.au so we can confirm numbers.

Conference Bags Arrive!

2009-07-21T12:43:00.007+10:00

ICML committee members were excited to take delivery of our conference bags last Friday. These are made by the Rehabilitation Unit of The Schieffelin Institute of Health in Karingiri, Tamilnadu, India (about 150 kms from Chennai - originally Madras).

Two committee members still use their Schieffelin bags from an Indian conference in 2000. Whilst in Sardinia attending the same conference series last month, we were pleased to see another delegate using hers. We hope you will enjoy our version as much.

The Schieffelin Institute of Health was established in 1957, and is an internationally renowned centre for leprosy and for treatment of dermatological, eye and orthopaedic problems. It also manages general conditions such as diabetes, and supports community health including maternal and child welfare. It has over 25 medical staff and specialists, and offers training to medical and allied health professionals. A general nursing and midwifery course was initiated in 2001, and its School also conducts a community geriatric care course.

The Institute’s video unit uses state-of-the-art equipment and has produced many teaching videos. Conversion of existing U-matic cassettes to DVD has recently been completed, and the editing of videos into interactive tapes is underway. Its library has 6000 books, 1772 bound volumes of journals and subscribes to 60 journals annually.

Protective devices and rehabilitation products such as handloom woven articles, hand-printed items, and miscellaneous handicrafts are also made. The rehabilitation unit runs as 'not for profit' with workers paid on a piece rate basis. Training and materials are provided, and help is given to market products. Workers are the leprosy-cured, the disabled, and the ‘socially deprived’. The Unit takes pride in helping its workers live a life of dignity.

Check Out one of the 1st Automated Book Sorters

2009-07-20T20:14:00.002+10:00

Centrally located, the Brisbane Square Library boasts a vibrant atmosphere in an architecturally stunning new building, complete with windows that look like slanting book spines. It is not just the exterior that is so inviting, once inside, open spaces, easy comfortable seating, trendy perspex bayend panels and glimpses of the beautiful Brisbane River all add to create a delightful atmosphere. This Library is not only ascetically pleasing but is also technologically advanced with the acquisition of the first automated book sorter in the Southern Hemisphere, designed to automatically check books in and sort them onto book trolleys for easy reshelving – a great help with a collection of over 110,000 items.

Why not join a tour to experience the workings of the Hi IQ book sorting system? Follow the journey of returned books via the conveyor belt from the floor above, see how items are measured, checked in and sorted into broad categories and loaded onto book sorter trolleys or into smartbins, ready to be placed on the shelves.

Inside Queensland

2009-07-07T15:06:00.021+10:00

Queensland is well known for its beautiful beaches, but the interior has spectacular scenery too. A journey to the outback offers an insight into another aspect of Australian culture.
Some places of interest within a days travel from Brisbane include:

Carnarvon Gorge

Carnarvon gorge is a National Park that is 720km northwest of Brisbane. The lush gorge has many creeks and rainforests that are home to a wide variety of wildlife. The gorge is rimmed with towering white cliffs. A wide variety of walking trails, from the short and easy to long and difficult, allow access to most of the gorge terrain. For an introductory view watch the video.

Aboriginal rock art at Carnarvon gorge provides a connection with the longest contiguous culture on earth.

A trip to Carnarvon Gorge is worth at least two days staying at the gorge (i.e. 3 nights). Accommodation options include camping through to staying at Takarakka Bush Resort or the Wilderness Lodge.

The Granite Belt

Stanthorpe is the central town in the grape growing and agricultural region called the granite belt of Southern Queensland. Attractions include wineries, apple orchards, restaurants, a lavender farm and Girraween National Park. Many of the wineries feature live music. Girraween’s walking trails to outcrops of large granite boulders offers sweeping vistas of the granite belt. The region is a 2-3 hour drive Southwest of Brisbane.

Boonah
An hour drive from Brisbane, the picturesque town of Boonah sits nestled within the scenic rim of the Great Dividing Range. This area offers beautiful views of the mountains. Other attractions include fishing at Moogerah and Maroon dams, wineries, country stores, hiking, rock climbing and much more.

The Ginger Factory at the Sunshine Coast

2009-06-28T19:34:00.007+10:00

Home of the World's Finest Ginger™ Buderim Ginger, The Ginger Factory is the perfect place to experience a real taste of Queensland.

Take your tastebuds on 'The Ginger Tour' and enjoy a taste of the worlds' finest ginger. Get a real buzz with the new Superbee tour, a live beekeeping show complete with the taste of pure Australian honey.

Choose your favourite from 65 flavours of freshly churned, homemade ice cream. Ride 'The Ginger Train', a 100 year old piece of Queensland history. Enjoy the ginger-lovers paradise of The Ginger Shop now complete with a full range of honey and health related products.

The Big Pineapple at the Sunshine Coast

2009-06-28T19:31:00.006+10:00

The Big Pineapple is a famous tourist attraction and working farm situated near Nambour, Queensland. The Big Pineapple is 16 metres high, and was originally open back in 1971. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, agricultural exhibits, exciting rides, restaurants and tours for all ages.

Take a ride on an authentic sugar cane train through tropical fruit orchards and pineapple fields, stopping for an informative farm show about growing pineapples. Visit the Koala and Fauna Sanctuary, home to many of Australia's great birds and animals.

Scuba Diving

2009-06-21T15:49:00.007+10:00

Moreton Bay and the SE Queensland coast are great places to dive, short or long trips, everything is catered for! For more details go to:

Redcliffe Scuba Dive Centre

Sunreef Scuba Diving Services

wireless hotspots in Brisbane

2009-06-15T13:42:00.004+10:00

Read all about where can you find free internet access - and other marvels of the digital age whilst in Brisbane!

Markets in Brisbane & surrounds

2009-05-22T20:05:00.012+10:00

Farmers Market at the Powerhouse

The Farmers Market at the New Farm Powerhouse is a unique boutique fresh seasonal produce market with around 100 stalls showcasing all the best available goodies in Queensland. All made, caught, dug, plucked, picked, bottled or baked by the person serving you. Organics, hydroponics, aquaculture and horticulture on show. Held every alternate weekend on Saturday from 5 am until noon. See the web site for dates.

South Bank Markets – Brisbane
Every Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday, the South Bank Lifestyle Market features an exciting range of arts, craft, homewares, collectibles, exotic items, designer fashion and much more. The markets are an ideal way to find a unique gift, orsimply stroll through and enjoy the atmosphere.

Eumundi Markets – Sunshine Coast
The Eumundi Markets is more than just a market with magical experiences every way you turn. You will be enchanted with the sounds of our wonderful musicians and swoon to the delights of the diverse cuisine that is available. The art and craft stalls are unique in Australia and our fresh produce is second to none. So why not come along and enjoy the experience of Australia's largest market. We are open rain, hail or shine every Wednesday & Saturday throughout the year. Wednesday 8am-1:30pm and Saturday 6:30am-2pm

Bush walk in the Brisbane State Forest

2009-05-17T17:25:00.009+10:00

Eight members of the ICML social committee undertook the planned ICML bush walk in the Brisbane State Forest this weekend. It was a perfect Queensland day, with temperatures around 20 Celsius (68 Fahrenheit). The walk is two hours through beautiful Queensland rain forest. With magnificent sweeping views across western valleys, hundreds of different plant species and wildlife make the walk a memorable experience. Close by is the Maiala Rainforest teahouse and restaurant that is available for replenishing after the brisk walk. You can sign up for the walk when registering for ICML. Remember to pack sturdy walking shoes if you plan to join the walk.

Library Tours during ICML

2009-05-11T12:35:00.003+10:00

For information on library tours during ICML go to:
http://www.icml2009.com/program/lib_tours.html

Bookings to undertake the tours can be made on the registration form:
https://www.icms.com.au/icml2009/register/

Contact us if you require further details via
ICML@library.uq.edu.au

Sailing

2009-05-08T15:32:00.003+10:00

Moreton bay on Brisbane’s doorstep is a great place to do some sailing. Here are some websites with further information
http://www.sail-away.com.au/ http://www.redballoondays.com.au/experience/MHV170
http://www.travelaus.com.au/cat/3-adventure-sailing-to-moreton-bay-full-day_879.htm

Don't know what to pack, why not SHOP when you are in Brisbane?

2009-04-27T16:02:00.007+10:00

The ICML Social Committee has prepared a brief outline of the main shopping precincts in and around Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Lots of other gems are out there for you to find – we focussed on where to get the most shopping achieved in a manageable area.

Please enjoy… page down (once) to find the “Shopping” section on the ICML website, under the "Destination" > "Brisbane" links.

PS: If you’re interested local, award-winning high end fashion, check out Easton Pearson. Only two shops in Australia – Brisbane and Sydney.

Outstanding ICML Preliminary Program - Now Available

2009-04-26T09:05:00.006+10:00

"I am stunned by how many sessions there are. The Conference is jammed with activity and excitement! While I was thinking maybe I will get some time to sneak off and look around, I am thinking I can’t miss a moment of this!"
Feedback on the ICML Preliminary Program from Janene Batten, MLS AHIP, Reference Librarian to Yale School of Nursing, Cushing/Whitney Medical Library:

Don't miss out on this major world health information event - REGISTER soon.

Bird Watching Websites

2009-03-30T18:30:00.008+10:00

General Information
http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/parks_and_forests/activities_in_parks_and_forests/watching_birds_and_other_wildlife/
http://www.ausbird.com/qld.html
http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/BCC:BASE::pc=PC_2283 (Includes a check list of birds that can be seen)

Brisbane and surrounding areas
http://bird-watching.suite101.com/article.cfm/birds_of_brisbane_city_botanics
http://www.birdingservices.com.au/
http://www.birdtours.co.uk/tripreports/australia/se-queensland/Brisbane-03.htm
http://www.ourbrisbane.com/suburbs/local-guide-8 (in the: Take a break paragraph)

Gold Coast
http://www.binnaburralodge.com.au/?gclid=CPXCx46YsJkCFU0wpAodFEFKJg

Other Suggested areas
Oxley Common - near Brisbane Markets
Minnippi Wetlands - near the Gateway and Lyton road
Port of Brisbane
Brisbane Forest Park (buses to just below Enoggera reservoir and then a walk the rest of the way)

Books

The field guide to the birds of Australia / by Graham Pizzey, illustrated by Frank Knight, updated and edited by Peter Menkhorst. Pymble, N.S.W. : HarperCollins ; Enfield : Publishers Group UK [distributor], 2007. 8th ed.

Wildlife of Greater Brisbane.
South Brisbane, Qld. : Queensland Museum, 2007. 2nd ed.

North Stradbroke Island sharing another of Brisbane's secrets

2009-03-18T14:13:00.023+10:00

Having moved to Brisbane a year ago, I’ve frequently been urged to visit Straddie, as it’s fondly known. Located 40 minutes by ferry from Brisbane’s shoreline, it’s 38kms long, 12kms at its widest, and is the second largest sand island in the world. A 30m deep layer of bedrock below sea level forms headlands at its north at Point Lookout, and lower rocky outcrops at Dunwich to its west. South Straddie lies just to the south, and Moreton Island to the north.

Straddie’s an ideal place to watch the passing whale parade. According to one website, more than 9000 Southern Humpback whales were spotted off the headland at Point Lookout in the (southern) winter of 2007. As commented on this blog last year, such estimates may be conservative. Last weekend, we saw several pods of dolphins at play, riding the waves off Frenchman’s Bay. These are easily viewed from the headland near North Gorge – just look for groups of people with cameras.

Human surfers enjoyed conditions off the 32km long Main Beach. A section of this is patrolled by surf lifesavers, and houses the Surf Club. The latter is popular for weddings, taking in spectacular views over dunes and eye-stretching beach. Four wheel drive enthusiasts (with permits) dotted the pristine sands, gaining access through the mid-island National Park. Fishing is a popular pastime, and tours can be taken for diving, snorkelling, kayaking etc.

Travelling to the beach takes drivers past the easily accessible Brown Lake (dyed by shed ti-tree leaves), a popular swimming spot close to Dunwich. Also along the way is Blue Lake, a 2.5 km walk through the National Park (each way). Access to the lake was closed for revegetation during our trip, but it was visible from a viewing platform. It was an easy walk, with ancient and distinctively Australian grass trees (and other flora) shading much of the path.

Another highlight of our four day weekend was watching turtles hunting in the wild North Gorge. The walk around offers great views from three sides of this compact natural feature. We also saw schools of fish as we took the well maintained path that extends to Main Beach. Other walks from Frenchman’s to Deadman’s beaches took us over rocks inhabited by small crabs. In all, Straddie is a photographer’s delight. Food is great (lots of locally caught, fresh seafood), and accommodation is varied to suit all budgets. We sourced ours through Wotif, and it overlooked Main Beach.

Though positioned directly below Moreton Island, Straddie escaped the disastrous oil spill of March 2009 which accompanied the Pacific Adventurer’s loss of 31 containers of ammonium nitrate overboard in heavy conditions during Cyclone Hamish.

Biblioteca Botanica at the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens

2009-03-02T14:47:00.006+10:00

Please join us on a visit to the Mount Coot-tha Botanica Gardens, Brisbane, Queensland.

Brief lectures "40 000 years of health and healing" Botany and the world's longest surviving culture - the Aboriginal Peoples of Australia - Professor John Pearn AM FLS, Patron ICML 2009 & "Medicinal and Toxic Plants" Mr Ross McKinnon AM FLS

Visit includes tour of the Botanic Gardens

See the flyer on our ICML website for more details

Social Event: Sunday 30th August 2009, 10 am - 3 pm

$15 & lunch on the day to be self funded

Golfing in Brisbane and surrounding areas.

2009-01-04T17:57:00.004+10:00

There are lots of golf courses to choose from, both in Brisbane and the surrounding areas. The weather in August and September is usually ideal for a round of golf.

Here is a flavour of some of the local courses:
Just North of the CBD is Victoria Park .
At the edge of Moreton Bay is Wynnum Golf Club. Non-members are welcome to play the course.
In the western suburbs of Brisbane are:
The Oxley Golf Club
The Jindalee Golf Club
And The St Lucia Golf Links
For a nine hole par 3 course on the Brisbane River there is the Bulimba Golf Course.
A bit further out of the city are:
Ashgrove Golf Club.
Brookwater Golf Club.
Carbrook Golf Club.
Chambers Pines Golf Club.
Keperra Country Golf Club.
Logan City Golf Club.
For those wanting a really special experience (at a price), pick from the following choices
The Royal Queensland Golf Club (site of 3 Australian Opens).
Hyatt Regency Coolum. (pictured above)
Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club.

More reasons why you should come to ICML in Brisbane

2008-12-11T11:14:00.007+10:00

Here are a few more pics ’n facts to tempt you to Brisbane next year:

Brisbane brochure (52p.) (11.3MB)

Wikipedia – Brisbane

Essential information - Brisbane

“Quick facts” tab - Brisbane
(Please note: ICML does not endorse any particular carrier).

Looking forward to a great conference, with you there!

XXXX Brewery Tour Ale House Brisbane

2008-12-10T20:29:00.006+10:00

Bet you didn't know that in Queensland beer is spelt XXXX !

More than a brewery tour, the XXXX Ale House gives visitors a glimpse into the history and workings of the famous XXXX Brewery.

The brewery is located only minutes from Brisbane's city centre at Paten Street, Milton.

Don't miss Australia's greatest beer experience, with an interactive brewery, a huge XXXX Beer Gear Shop and our unique XXXX Ale House bar where you can sample brewery fresh XXXX beers.

More information: xxxxalehouse@xxxx.com.au

What is Paintball/Skirmish?

2008-11-02T20:09:00.002+10:00

Paintball is like a game of tag and chess combined. Each player is armed with a compressed gas powered paint marker that propels soft gelatine balls the size of a bath bead. These are filled with biodegradable washable paint that splatters upon impact.
Where is it located?
There are several locations in Brisbane
Top Gun Paintball is located just 10 minutes north of Brisbane; this 60 acre venue at Keperra can cater for numbers of between 1 to 120 people at a time.

Laser Skirmish the Mt Cotton battlefield is more than 300 acres of Australian bush. It features awesome trails through the woods and a feature lake.

What is the minimum age for paintballing?
Under the Queensland Weapons Act all players must be over 15 years old.
How much does it cost to play?
Prices vary see individual websites for prices

Travels around Brisbane # 1

2008-10-14T12:07:00.009+10:00

Hello from another member of the ICML 2009 social committee.

As a long-term resident of South-East Queensland, I’m lucky to regularly visit some of the great beach locations within a short distance of the area. One of my all time favourites is Straddie (North Stradbroke Island). I’ve been going there for over twenty-five years and although the buildings and shops are becoming a little more upmarket, the island is not overdeveloped. Its beautiful, natural landscape endures and dominates, so it remains a place to unwind and relax and get around in daggy beach gear (see photo below).

What to do and where to stay:
There are three main townships on the island which offer accommodation ranging from camping and cabins, rental properties to luxury resorts. The area around Point Lookout, (Queensland’s most easterly point), is where I usually stay. Cylinder Beach offers swimming under the watchful eye of life-savers and shady spots for delicate skins, (the one time I lament my Scottish ancestry). I’ve never failed to spot dolphins and turtles when I do the North Gorge walk. I recommend binoculars because late August is a perfect time for whale watching. Deadman’s beach, (don’t let the name put you off), offers spots to fish and paddle amongst the rock-pools (see photo). If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb one of the sand dunes. If you prefer to swim in freshwater, Brown Lake and Blue Lake, not far from Dunwich, offer picturesque swimming spots.

How to get there:
It’s a hop, skip and a jump to the island. If you leave from the Brisbane CBD it takes approximately forty minutes by car, (allow longer for peak hour traffic), or one hour by train to the mainland jumping off point, Cleveland. From there, it’s a thirty minute water-taxi ride on Stradbroke ferries or the Flyer. You disembark at the settlement of Dunwich and can catch the Island bus to Amity point (11 kms) or Point Lookout (20 kms). If you plan to take a vehicle, you’ll need to catch one of the vehicular ferries Stradbroke Ferries or the Big Red Cat .

Have a great time!

[Posted on behalf of Kaye]

Ballooning in Southern Queensland - A unique way to see the sights

2008-10-04T17:56:00.008+10:00

Balloon with Hot Air - for trips over the Queensland Gold Coast, one hour south of Brisbane. (Photo thanks to Hot Air Balloon Rides)

Balloons over Brisbane – includes Champagne breakfast. Note minimum age of children – 8yrs

Fly me to the Moon – Hot Air Ballooning
Complimentary pick-ups can be arranged from city accommodation. After the flight you will be treated to a five star buffet breakfast at the Sofitel Brisbane Hotel.

August / September 2008: Travels of a New Brisbane Resident

2008-09-30T14:31:00.026+10:00

Following my description of Brisbane in August/September, I thought I’d share three recent trips taken out of town: two in Queensland, and one in the snowfields.

The beach: Port Douglas (Queensland)

A two-hour flight from Brisbane took me above the Tropic of Capricorn to Cairns, gateway to two World Heritage locations: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Forest. A short drive along the heartbreakingly rugged coastal road (and numerous roundabouts), led to Port Douglas.

Its beautiful Four Mile Beach (left) may seem deserted, but is teeming with life: tiny crabs; visitors riding the hardened wet sand on bicycles, or strolling or jogging; kite-flyers, and people generally enjoying the idyllic conditions. (Don’t forget sun screen). I had a three day weekend, but you'll need more time if planning to explore the kaleidoscopic Reef and the lush Daintree.

The beach: Noosa Heads (Queensland)

A two hour drive north up the Sunshine Coast (less, if there are no roadworks) found me at Noosa Heads and Sunshine Beach for another three day weekend. Though not fringed by palm trees like Port Douglas, the beaches and dunes are magnificent.

Writing now, I feel the sun’s warmth on my skin, and remember families playing ball games, a bird-man suspended from a motorized kite, surfers, and dogs frolicking in the water. Noosa’s short main street is a microcosm of city pleasures (all sampled): scrumptious restaurants, cafes, boutiques and art galleries.

The snow: Falls Creek (Victoria)

Just for variety and to show overseas visitors how extreme August/September can be in Oz: why not go snowboarding? This excursion involved flights from Brisbane to Sydney (1 hour), then Sydney to Albury, New South Wales (1 hour in a smaller plane).

An alternative snowfield awaits under two hours flight from Brisbane via Canberra. The Snowy Mountains (New South Wales) with its mighty hydro-electric dam, is one of the nominated wonders of the modern world. Though I’m not one for the cold, I can appreciate the novelty of fresh snow crunching underfoot and coolness against sun toasted skin during the northern hemisphere’s summer. Why not come downunder and see for yourself...

August / September 2008: Thoughts of a New Brisbane Resident

2008-09-22T15:58:00.011+10:00

Hello prospective ICML 2009 visitors to Brisbane!

I’m a member of the ICML 2009 Social Committee, and new to Queensland. I thought I’d share some experiences of Brisbane during the same period as next year’s conference. I hope seeing it through my fresh eyes will capture your imagination.

Riverfestival Fireworks (Sat 30 Aug 2008)

Hundreds of boats began travelling up the river from early morning to get into position for RiverFire. The trickle turned into a torrent at 10:30 a.m. when members of the Queensland Yacht Squadron sailed upriver en masse. From then on, the pace didn’t slacken.

Anyone who’s seen busy port cities like Shanghai will easily envisage the never ending line of white gleaming boats, pressed port to stern, with their orange permit pennants flapping in the light breeze. Small tin boats, island ferries, and cruising vessels dodged around the regular blue, white and yellow CityCat services.

Just before sunset, the RAAF Roulettes in Pilatus PC-9/As began their first display over Brisbane’s skyscrapers. A second run just on sunset riveted all eyes upwards, as the sky’s golden glow enveloped the estimated 500,000 extra people stationed along the river, on boats, and in buildings.

At 7:00pm, RiverFire erupted with a flypast of the RAAF F1-11 strike jet low over the city before performing a ‘dump and burn’, giving the night sky a second sun. Children and adults alike called out in excitement in buildings around me. For thirty minutes following, fireworks such as interlacing red hearts fired into the sky, and the Story Bridge shot multiple blasts, transforming a two kilometre stretch of cityscape into a riot of colour.

Riverlife Activity Centre

Lisa, ICML’s intrepid co-convener, myself and other social committee members took roller blade lessons at Riverlife. As none of us were experienced, the carpeted room and sympathetic instructor were most welcome. One member returned for a rock climbing lesson on the adjacent 30 million year old Kangaroo Point Cliffs, which are opposite the city centre. Riverlife also takes night kayaking tours, and offers Aboriginal song and dance sessions with descendants of the local Yuggera Tribe.

More later...

Riverfestival - Brisbane: Countdown to ICML 2009

2008-08-30T05:51:00.006+10:00

Fireworks will mark the countdown to ICML 2009 in Brisbane this evening. Have a look at the Riverfestival array of sparkling events. This annual festival will be taking place when ICML commences next year at the venue on South Bank.

Surfing lessons downunder

2008-08-29T13:33:00.011+10:00

A list of locations in Southern Queensland for surfing lessons

Gold Coast (south of Brisbane) Surfers Paradise
Distance from Brisbane: 80km.
Travel time: ~1 hr

Currumbin
Distance from Brisbane: 90km.
Travel time: ~70mins

Main Beach
Distance from Brisbane: 70km.
Travel time: ~1 hr

Broadbeach (school 1, school 2)
Distance from Brisbane: 80km.
Travel time: ~1 hrs

Surfers Paradise
Distance from Brisbane: 80km.
Travel time: ~1 hr

The Spit (school 1, school 2)
Distance from Brisbane: 80km.
Travel time: ~1 hr

Coolangatta
Distance from Brisbane: 100km.
Travel time: ~1 2hrs

Sunshine Coast (north of Brisbane)
Noosa (school 1, school 2, school 3, school 4)
Distance from Brisbane: 145km.
Travel time: ~1.5 hrs

Coolum
Distance from Brisbane: 120km.
Travel time: ~1.5 hrs

Caloundra
Distance from Brisbane: 100km.
Travel time: ~1.2 hrs

Kawana
Distance from Brisbane: 100km.
Travel time: ~1.2 hrs

Bribe Island
Distance from Brisbane: 60km.
Travel time: ~50 mins

Submit your abstract - only 1 month left!

2008-08-19T21:07:00.003+10:00

In exactly one month from now on, the abstract submission system will be shut down. So please be sure to submit in time!

The deadline is Friday, 19 September 2008

MLA News features ICML 2009

2008-08-19T20:59:00.002+10:00

On her "What's new" section, the USA Medical Library Association features on her main homepage The International Congress of Medical Librarians (ICML) with the heading:

Plan for 2009 ICML, August 31-September 4, 2009

The ICML, with the theme “Positioning the Profession,” will offer an array of research papers, user studies, and innovative solutions in Brisbane, Australia. Local and international presenters will include those working in health libraries, publishing, and information and communication technologies, as well as clinicians and academics. A number of continuing education activities and tours of the region will also be offered.

What to do downunder

2008-07-21T20:55:00.002+10:00

Below is a 'big picture' view with a bit of a flavour of the places and what you can see.

Cities

Brisbane - warm, friendly, attractive and fun; great for being outside, riding the river ferries, beautiful ocean beaches nearby (Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Stradbrooke Island).
Sydney - gorgeous city and harbour; best seen from harbour ferries; late night partying; nearby iconic ocean beaches (Manly, Bondi, Coogee); terrific shopping, museums and opera house.
Melbourne - very European; sophisticated and cultural; a gastronomic wonderland; magnificent botannic gardens; great live music scene; sports mecca and fashion centre.
Adelaide - almost English; surrounded by wine regions; good food and access point to Kangaroo Island.
Perth - beautiful city on wide Swann River (sailing mecca) and near ocean beaches (Cottislow, Scarborough); good night life; see nearby Freemantle for historical sea port; access point to wonderful South West of Western Australia (see below).
Hobart - historical and clean city on banks of the Derwent River with Mt Wellington as backdrop; great seafood, crafts market (Salamanca); nearby Port Arthur provides the sites and feel of the penal colony past; access point for the many natural wonders of Tasmania.
Darwin - the far tropical north; laid back; magnificent sunsets; access point to Arnhem Land and the Kimberley (see below).

Natural attractions

Great Barrier Reef - a wonder of the world and must see if you are into snorkeling or diving; easiest access is from far north Queensland (Cairns, Townsville), but can also be reached from departure points within five hours drive north of Brisbane (see Heron, Lady Elliott and Lady Musgrave Islands).
Blue Mountains - a few hours from Sydney; beautiful region with sweeping mountain vistas, coloured by the eucalypt forests.
Cradle Mountain and Tasmania wilderness - lush and unique fauna; pristine wilderness, craggy peaks; wonderful fishing; amazing empty beaches (with very cold water).
Ocean Coasts - lots to choose from:

Great Ocean Road southwest of Melbourne - picturesque, lots of nice little ocean front towns with cafes; forested mountains drop down to the sea.

Northern NSW, south of Brisbane - beautiful sandy beaches and rainforest covered hinterlands; Byron Bay and lots of other towns to stay in.

Southern NSW, south of Sydney - fantastic scenery and less travelled countryside.
Sunshine Coast, north of Brisbane - just a little over an hours drive north of Brisbane, fantastic sandy beaches and Noosa National Park. Can go as far as Hervey Bay - the best humpback whale watching area.

Uluru, Kata Tjuta National Park - also know as Ayers Rock, a symbol of Australia and important Aboriginal centre, access via bus or car from Alice Springs
Arnhem Land - the far north of the Northern Territory, pristine tropical beaches and forest; stronghold of Aboriginal culture.
The Kimberley - rock gorges and sandstone formations, pockets of rainforest, a vast pristine wilderness.
Carnarvon Gorge - outback rocky gorge with lush rainforest oasis; about 8-10 hours drive from Brisbane.

Unique places and regions

Coober Pedy - the desert and opal mining centre with many underground homes to escape the searing summer heat; about 850kms north of Adelaide; can access via train (the Ghan) from Adelaide
South West of Western Australia - Margaret River wine region; old growth forests, Great Southern Ocean sea port of Albany.

Tip number 1: unless you really like driving, don't travel between the major cities and towns by car because you will spend most of your time in a car.
Tip number 2: search the web for locations, accommodation, things to do and see - most of Australia is well covered on the web.

EAHIL 2008 Helsinki

2008-07-03T18:16:00.005+10:00

Please take a look at Guus' conference remarks and his exemplary list of Web2.0 tools for the EAHIL2008 conference (with an impressive presentation by Heather, which was heavily discussed throughout the conference). For sure he would be willingly to do something similiar for the ICML 2009, if kindly requested. :-)

PS: The conference logo on the top right is now clickable.

Call for Abstracts

2008-05-19T18:39:00.004+10:00

The 10th International Congress on Medical Librarianship (ICML) 2009 will incorporate the 6th International Conference of Animal Health Information Specialists (ICAHIS) and the 4th International Clinical Librarian Conference (ICLC).

Just now, the Call for Abstracts went out. Deadline is Friday, 19. Sept. 2008. Submission is online. Detailed information (PDF).

Dates to remember:

Friday, 19 September 2008 - Abstract submission deadline
Friday, 14 November 2008 - Abstract notification to authors
Friday, 10 April 2009 - Submission deadline for papers
Friday, 17 April 2009 - Close of early registration
Friday, 3 July 2009 - Registration for inclusion in proceedings

The Whales are coming

2008-05-08T16:18:00.002+10:00

Every year over a 1000 Humpback Whales make the long trip from Antarctica to Hervey Bay, a three and a half hour drive along the scenic southern highway from Brisbane.
It is fortunate indeed for delegates to the ICML 2009 that this migration is at its strongest from the months of July to October.
This could well be a once in a life time experience for delegates and those seeking more information should visit the following sites.

Humpback whale migration
Tours and costs
A tour guides site

Visit the Irwins' Australia Zoo

2008-04-06T08:59:00.008+10:00

Australia Zoo is a wonderful place to learn about Australia’s wildlife. There are opportunities to get close to koalas, kangaroo, dingos, wombats, snakes and, best of all, crocodiles. The Zoo is located about an hour and half drive north of Brisbane.
Photo: Australia Zoo

Closest Koala's in Brisbane

2008-03-21T16:46:00.004+10:00

Lone Pine Koala Park a half hour drive from the City and accessible by boat from Southbank, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary provides opportunities to cuddle a Koala and see other Australian wildlife. The excellent customer service will assist you to have a wonderful experience in the Australian bush. Photo: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Once Just a Stopover, an Australian City Grows Up

2007-11-12T13:06:00.000+10:00

New York Times article about Brisbane.

Queensland's State Library Awarded Best Building

2007-10-30T20:22:00.000+10:00

The State Library of Queensland (located just minutes from the ICML Conference Venue) was named the nation's best building by the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) on Thursday 25 October 2007. "The State Library was awarded the nation's top prize for public architecture at the 2007 RAIA National Architecture Awards," said Mr Welford, Queensland Minister for Education and Training and Minister for the Arts. "The State Library is a celebration of inspiring architecture and urban design. It is a truly active, interesting, engaging and welcoming space for the public and Queenslander's should feel proud to have this state-of-the-art facility in our backyard." Principal architect Timothy Hill envisioned the new State Library as an "open space which, unlike many public buildings of the past, is neither intimidating nor conventional". Described by RAIA judges as an extraordinary project that had opened the State Library up to a new generation of users, the award is the most recent accolade for the building.

Be prepared!

2007-10-29T22:32:00.000+10:00

Only three months left and the Call for Papers for the ICML 2009 will be issued. There is plenty of time in the coming months (especially for residents in the northern hemisphere, because it's winter ;-) ) to think on appropriate projects and topics. Be creative!

In one year's time the programme committee will decide if your abstract is accepted or not - so be well prepared to reach your goals (professionally or socialprogrammally)!

Whale watching in Queensland

2007-08-17T19:34:00.000+10:00

Attention ICML delegates and accompanying persons! Start planning now...as you are in for an experience of a lifetime. Do you realize that humpback whale s migrate from Antarctica to the East Coast of Australia between the months of July and November? That means when you come to the ICML 2009 it will be a great opportunity for you to experience their majestic beauty.

UQ library re-fit a hit with users

2007-07-23T10:59:00.000+10:00

Read about our most magnificent University of Queensland Biological Sciences Library which has just had a A$13.5 million facelift!

The Bibliography of Australian Literature launch

2007-07-06T21:28:00.000+10:00

This week the third volume of the Bibliography of Australian Literature was launched! Only one more volume to complete the set. Read about this milestone achievement.

Beaches of Queensland

2007-06-30T07:34:00.000+10:00

When you travel DownUnder make sure you experience the wonder of the beautiful beaches of Queensland!

Welcome

2006-11-20T21:08:00.000+10:00

The University of Queensland Library and IFLA Section of Biological and Medical Sciences Libraries invite you to participate in the 10th International Congress on Medical Librarianship, to be held in September 2009 in Brisbane, capital city of the state of Queensland, Australia.

Venue

2006-11-20T19:55:00.000+10:00