Wlatest Facebook status update about having “just spotted a spider on my bed. Eek!” to typing strings of sentences

elcome to the first edition of Brisbane State for that massive assignment, to chatting with a friend. As High School ’ s proudly s tudent-run Austrian philosopher, Wittgenstein, once said: “the newspaper, The Ink Drop. limits of my language mean the limits of my world”,

Inside, you can quench your thirst to find out about words are the most powerful tool each individual international and local news, one writer’s irrevocable possesses. Use words, and use them well. Hopefully, affinity for the internet, the future Grammy award- you’ll find that The Ink Droppers have used their words winning band, Hatless, and much more than can be well.encapsulated in a mere paragraph. Really, the only way for you to discover the wonders of The Ink Drop is to flip On behalf of The Ink Drop committee including its the page, picture yourself reclining on a deckchair at a brilliant writers, photographers and assisting teachers, pool whilst languorously sipping a smoothie and - most we invite you to bask in the full glory of State High.importantly - start reading! Words play such an important role in our lives, from the Christina B & Christine C,

Founders of The Ink Drop

Hi everyone!

TheInk

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A world of words

The Ink Drop - Edition 1, March 2011

Mr. Haynes p.11~12

Egyptian Revolution p.3~4

Amnesty International p.23

Operation Helios p.22

Sports p.5

State High Bands p.14

Happen ngsB Y L Y D I A D

newsevents

DEBATING

MUSICAL

VOCAL SOIREE

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their school life wishing that their school had as talented singers as State High. The BSHS Vocal Soiree showcases our blossoming stars, know it gets monotonous going to all the filled with an array of songs that ensures there e v e n t s a n d c o n s t a n t l y f e e l t h e is something that everyone will love! You overwhelming talents of State High, but if would be crazy to miss the vocal soiree you can bear to watch us shine again, come and performance on Sunday, April 10 in PAC! watch the GPS and QDU Debating

Competition. See Australia's future Prime Ministers and politicians before the rest of the world, and learn how to win that next argument that you are going have with your teacher when you 'forget' to finish your homework! The first QDU rounds are on March 16, 23 and 30. If you want to see State High conquer Nudgee College once again, come along to round four of the GPS competition on March 25.

hat do Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Katy Perry and Justin Bieber all have in

common? They all performed in their high school's vocal soirees and spent

Do you dream about Broadway, seeing shows every day and watching Broadway's biggest stars on stage? Well look no further, because State High's performance of Fame - The Musical is set to be the biggest school production ever to be performed in Brisbane State High School history! Watch as they shock you with their best acting, dancing and singing skills! If you miss it, you will definitely regret it, so mark June 2 - 4 in your diary and don't miss State High's incredible performance of Fame!

GPSCricket - Volleyball -

March 19March 19

QGSSSACricket - Basketball/Football/Touch -

March 16March 18

OthersDonnelly Dash - Interhouse cross country -

March 15April 5

Other Upcoming Events...

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news

hen the protests began on December 17 2010 persistent international and internal pressure, Hosni in Sidi Bouzid, a central town in Tunisia, the Mubarak stepped down as president and handed his world of the Middle East and North Africa powers over to the army. W

entered an era of revolution, though no one knew at the time. After Tunisia, came Egypt; this became the The Libyan president, Colonel Gaddafi, in contrast, is biggest blow to the political stability of the region. After utilising whatever means possible to maintain a hold 17 days of heavy, yet peaceful, protests from the on his autocratic rule, despite heavy international Egyptian public, the 30-year rule of Hosni Mubarak condemnation. Propelling his supporters to go forth officially came to an end on February 11, 2011, marking and “cleanse Libya”, the Colonel seems unwavering in the second success of “people power” in the North his determination, as neither strong international Africa/Middle East region. This revolution in Egypt pressure nor internal riot deviates him from ensuring became an alarm clock for the sleeping discontent of the continuance of his rule. her oppressed neighbours.

All this time, the international community has Aroused and encouraged by the Tunisian and watched on, anxious of what ensues. The countries that Egyptian uprising, civilians of Middle Eastern and have maintained a friendly, diplomatic relationship North African nations have w i t h t h e s e a u t o c r a t i c organised mass protests in governments, notably the U.S. capital cities and in urban, but not excluding Australia, suburban and rural areas now have a clear choice: across their countr ies . supporting the leader, in Yemen, Algeria, Libya, Jordan, order to safeguard their Morocco, Bahrain, Iraq and n a t i o n a l i n t e r e s t s ; o r Iran have seen protesters out supporting the people, in order on the streets since Tunisia to reinforce their advocation and Egypt's overthrow of their f o r d e m o c r a c y a n d dictators, and unrest is condemnation of autocracy. beginning to surface in Syria. Common themes of poverty, Despite economic, political high rates of unemployment, and diplomatic concerns, the lack of preservation of human U.S. has established a stance: rights and rising food prices are go democracy! This was, however, fuelling the revolution that is spreading through the not consistent throughout her response to the Middle East/North African region. Previously afraid Egyptian crisis. Originally, the U.S. Special Envoy in of the oppression imposed by the authoritarian Egypt states that “Mubarak must stay for now” to governments, the tyrannised people are now ensure political stability; later on in the uprising, emboldened by their neighbours and raising their President Obama calls for “an orderly transition” and voices. that it must be “meaningful” and “must begin now”.

This shift in attitude highlights the U.S.'s change in her Responses from the despots vary from offering choice: from the preservation of national interests to economic benefits or compromises (such as not democracy. running for office again, or promising to step down at a certain time), to sacking an entire cabinet and appoint Despite this choice to support people power, a new one, to “cleans[ing]” the country of protesters, economic, political and social instability will prevail in house by house, as Libya has done. During the the region and will impact upon the U.S. and anyone Egyptian protests, former President Mubarak who has vested interests in the region. Firstly, the price attempted to appease his people by removing and of oil will rise, which will have an impact on the prices replacing an entire cabinet. Eventually, under of commodities all over the world. This is especially

The Dawn of a Revolutionary Era

This revolution in Egypt

became an alarm clock for

the sleeping discontent of her

oppressed neighbours

News in a nutshell

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newsdetrimental to countries such as the U.S. and Australia, countries such as the Western nations, will mean that where there is heavy dependence on oil. Secondly, the these nations will no longer have the easy access to the ousting of the dictators, who are friendly with other region, as foreign relations will now be under the

public scrutiny of these newly democratic states. Thirdly, the discontent towards the dictators may empower militant groups, which is unfavourable for the stability of the society. Lastly, the social unrest and political turmoil has the potential to destabilise the social structures of these nations.

Despite the seeming victory, problems lie ahead. No matter which stage the revolution reaches, those involved are in for a difficult battle. As citizens of a prosperous country, we can use our voices to call for democracy, because for the silenced, there lies hope ahead.

efore January 13, our generation would never simply inspiring and electrifying to be in the presence have used the words “Brisbane” and “floods” in of such positive energy and I know that this event shall Bthe same sentence. Before that historic day, forever remain memorable as a time of such

mentioning anything about flooding in Brisbane would inconceivable tribulations and kindness. have gotten you many a perplexed look. Now, however, the two words in question when strung together form a Isn't it ironic that in the worst of times, the best of chronicle of stoicism, a narrative of valour. This humanity is brought out?combination of three simple syllables brings up lasting visions: entire streets underwater; schools inundated; parks deluged; the local newsagent submerged; the sheer ferocity of the Brisbane River. For us, the young generations unsullied with memories of the destructive ‘74 floods, we were born with no idea of the beast that lay within the River, thinking that the River was merely a medium utilised by the Citycats that ferried passengers to and fro. Or perhaps we thought it a charming landmark. Whatever we thought it to be, we definitely did not think it capable of such devastation.

The Old English epic poem Beowulf describes perfectly the essence of this cataclysmic event, as a portion of it describes Grendel, a water monster killed by Beowulf. Yes, our citizens were struck down by the monstrous and unremitting ferocity of the Brisbane “Grendel”. And yes, the citizens of Brisbane did manage to kill this ruthless monster, not with the blades of Beowulf, but with generosity and magnanimity. The citizens of Brisbane facilitated an expeditious recovery with munificence. The aftermath of the floods consisted of sheer desolation and ruin but this did not dissuade thousands of volunteers from putting on some old clothes and getting their hands dirty. Neither the colossal mounds of rotting waste nor the heavy loads discouraged this mass of altruistic individuals. It was

Brisbane Floods

Murky flood water surrounds the iconic ‘Brisbane Eye’ in South Bank

Protestor holds up Egyptian flags, calling for democracy

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Detailed below are just some of the fantastic and extraordinary aspects of State High's AWESOME EXTRACURRICULAR ARENA!!!

The Swimming Carnival

sports

Hordes of fanatic and spirited spectators, a spectator dressed up in wonderful if slightly weird and slightly scary costumes, raving eccentric costumes; I swear I saw a female music and lots and lots and lots of zinc. onlooker dressed in a green, risqué… elf costume.

No, I am not describing a chess meet nor am I Not only did State High master the art of elucidating upon some sort of secret society costumes, we also mastered the art of swimming. initiation. I am chronicling the BSHS Prodigious swimming skill was displayed SWIMMING CARNIVAL!! A day of intense fun resulting in many records being broken. The where the casual onlooker would have found intensity of the swimmers, the crowd, the rain, many a swimmer basking in the buoyancy and was almost too much to bear. The talent of State cheerfulness of what turned out to be a great day. High swimmers just keeps building, wave after The casual onlooker would have also found many wave.

Exciting, exhilarating, stirring, electrifying, fielder Lydia B, I could not help but get gripped by inspiring; what could all of these adjectives her mind-blowing enthusiasm for the sport. All possibly relate to? Lawn Bowls? NO, members on the team were extraordinary with

GIRLS’ CRICKEEET!! State High has been having their talent and passion about this sport; it's nothing but success in this thrilling game with the amazing how much talent is flowing in the State Opens undefeated so far!! When speaking with High pool of students!

You may have noticed that Girls’ Cross that it's not some sort of secret preparation course Country has started once again. Perhaps on for the Navy Seals but rather rigorous training for your way to school you've seen a bunch of the endurance sport of cross country. When

school students training around Kangaroo Point, interviewing one runner about why she did cross Musgrave Park, or South Bank? Perhaps you've country, she said this most sagacious and seen some students executing push-ups, sit-ups or perceptive description: “I felt fat just sitting some other form of exercise? Well now you know around..it just feels good to run.” Fair enough.

Girls’ Cricket

Girls’ Cross Country

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news

tate High is getting right back into its usual whenever we need it. You don't understand how much bustling and busy self. The summer sports are all work actually goes into organising for Valentine's Day Sstarting up their competitions and all the various until it's your turn and my respect for all the previous

projects and activities are taking their baby steps Captains and Prefects, who took on every towards realisation, be it the Cambodia Project or the responsibility and still met every person with a smile school musical or the literature-driven venture that on their face, has risen astronomically. Similarly, the you're reading at this very moment. The Prefects and staff and teachers are simply amazing. Captains are also finding their feet, we're all trying to All in all, together, everyone - teacher, student, young comprehend and fulfil our responsibilities without or old - has helped start off another State High year failing too noticeably – and trust me when there are with great enthusiasm and not too many wistful more than 2200 sets of eyes watching you, that's a conversations of the holidays gone by. To everyone pretty tough task. However, from trying to work the with older siblings who go to university and had an dreaded Assembly microphone – I swear it has mood extra month of holidays, I feel your pain! All jokes swings! – to organising the Valentine's Day event, we aside, the year is travelling by us at an alarming pace have all learned a lot more about the school than we and I've certainly already made many memories that I thought was possible after four years and are getting will remember for years and I anticipate everything very used to sending looks of earnest gratitude to the that is to come ahead. staff and teachers who are there to help and advise us

B Y A I S H W A R Y A J

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creativeshort story

B Y I V A N L

Shaking my head to steel myself, I grunted, resolved to keep on moving, but my body thought otherwise.

I groaned as I dropped my pencil and clutched my Pain and exhaustion had stretched me past the forehead, a pulsing throb sneaking its way into the limits of my physical capabilities, and along with a base of my skull. After seventy minutes of a faltering resolve, my will slowly dissipated as I gave swelteringly humid class, it was simply pure luck in to the heat. that I had ended up unscathed, with only a sledgehammer lodged deep within my brain. As I Suddenly, the world tilted sharply, and the next scanned the room, I realised that not everyone was thing I knew, I was staring back up towards the as lucky as I. Some looked like they had been run sneering sun. It was with that, I began to laugh over by a vehicle, whilst others didn't even seem to hysterically, cursing at my misfortune as darkness be alive. Who would have thought that a simple began to creep up towards me. The door to death maths test could cause such fatalities? With all that was ajar, and as I reached out to enter, a sudden, brain damage, I wouldn't be surprised if zombies blinding white light pierced through the darkness, did exist. wrenching me away and back into consciousness.

A few moments later, I found myself by the exit. As I With a raspy gasp, my eyes fluttered open, and I stepped out of the room, the door locked behind me knew I had returned back to a world of pain and and I realised only too late that I had made a fatal dehydration. But who or what revitalised me? error; I had completely underestimated how deadly Questions flooded my brain, and powerful curiosity an Australian summer could be. overcame and propelled my reluctant body to sit up.

There, I saw the source of the blinding white light, Before I could react, I was literally thrown back as a and then witnessed a miracle beyond belief. sudden wave of dense, stifling heat greeted me with a powerful slap, suffocating me in its unbreakable What stood in front of me, my saviour, was no grip. The lingering presence of the sweet, air- ordinary newspaper. It was a legendary hardcopy of conditioned room suddenly ceased to exist, only to the first edition of 'The Ink Drop'. It was the be replaced with a fiery reality: summer's hell. epitome of greatness, its raw awesomeness

surpassing even the extremities of the universe. It Due to the drastic change in environment, my was more beautiful than the most beautiful maiden worn-down brain refused to respond, and I was in the world. It was more pure and fragile than the temporarily immobilised. Like a sitting duck, I was smallest baby ever born, so much so, that I had to vulnerable while the sun locked on to an easy prey avert my gaze in case of tainting it with my stare. It and pounced at me. I grunted as pain flared onto my was a newspaper so breathtakingly grand, that it exposed skin, and I knew I had only minutes before was distributed specifically to the students of the UV rays granted me skin cancer. Brisbane State High School.

Gritting my teeth, I staggered forward, seeking As I reached out to touch such a wonderful creation, relief from the sun, but I only managed a few steps all of my sufferings abruptly ceased, and the world before a full scale war between countless suddenly became cooler and much more sledgehammers broke out within my head. comfortable. My heart soared as I fondly caressed Ignoring the pain, I forced myself forward, as the the purity, and it was with that, I knew my life was heat continually sapped at my exhausted energy finally complete. reserves.

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love that some people have an innate gift for Hughes uses a variety of poetic devices to convey words. I love that they can create something one universal concept: the importance of Iout of nothing: a blank page then becomes a p o s s e s s i n g d r e a m s . H u g h e s e m p l o y s

profound page of scribbles. I love the way that metaphorical language to create visions in the those scribbles, seemingly insignificant, are poetic reader's mind. He associates the death of dreams and mind-blowingly moving. I love the way they to a “…broken-winged bird…” which “…cannot can really inspire me. I love hating terrible love fly…” By painting this visual image of a life without tales; did I mention that I was once thrown out of dreams, he stirs the reader to “Hold fast to Angus and Robertson for putting Twilight in the dreams” for hope is the very entity that propels us self-help section? forward, like the wind beneath a dove's wings.Strange, isn't it? How a few written words can empower somebody to really “get out there and The use of rhyme in Dreams creates rhythm and Carpe the hell out of the Diem!” I love how a few harmony to ensure that even after reading the last words, when strung together, can provoke you to line, the poem and its profound meaning will stand up and change your world for the better. I forever stay with the reader. By likening a just love literature! So, it is with the greatest dreamless life to a “...barren field” irrevocably pleasure that I introduce my favourite poem and “...Frozen with snow”, Hughes summons images poet: of a depressing winter without sun. Additionally, a

barren field cannot yield anything – no corn, no wheat, just nothing. Hughes is saying that, similarly, if you relinquish your dreams, you run the risk of living an unfulfilled life.

Hughes manages to express the significance of dreams by employing the aforementioned poetical devices of metaphor and rhyme. I hope you feel as inspired as I did upon reading this poignant poem. Remember: “Hold fast to dreams” and Carpe Diem!

Do you remember the sound of crashing waves? Where we could actually talkOr the calls of the birds in the night? Something is wrong; awfully wrongYou may not but I clearly do, because it's just So please make a change. May it be planting more simple so peaceful trees?With not a single can in sight; with not a single Or simply not going on the Xbox,artificial light but instead, playing with those good old blocks!Or a TV blasting on about wars, or some other So, everyone, do you remember those days?bloody plights Or maybe the sound of crashing waves?What happened to a world without cars? You may not, but I clearly doA world where we could actually walk And I hope that one day, you can too.What happened to a world with no computers?

B Y B I N D I N

creativepoetry

Dreams by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged birdThat cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreamsFor when dreams goLife is a barren fieldFrozen with snow.

B Y Y E N E E S

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The Ink Drop (TID)

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: What gets you up in the :I like kids, and I wanted to be involved in a morning? positive career that helped people grow and

develop.: I love my job. My family also gets me up – they're loud in the mornings.

: What is your favourite high school memory?: I remember watching, in year 8, the year 12 : Name three people that most inspire you.

students play cricket, and two of them played for : My wife is probably one of the most Queensland, and I remember just watching them inspirational people I've ever met. She's a bundle and wishing I could be like them. of energy. I like Matthew Hayden, the cricketer,

and the values he has based his career on. I've : What was your favourite subject in high always found Paul Keating just inspirational. He

school?had this gift with words, and he held a 'big picture' view of things. : Graphics. I've always liked the idea of being

an architect – that was another of my childhood career aspirations.: What do you do to unwind and relax?

: I play sport with my boys, Isaac, who's 9, and : What did you want to be when you were 12 Samuel, who's 7. Our holidays are very precious,

years old?and we go camping a lot, just sitting around the campfire and cooking. Family's very important to : I wanted to play cricket for Australia. I also me, especially because I grew up as the eldest in liked building things. I had always had something my family, with five sisters and a brother. for the construction industry.

:What is something trivial about yourself that : What was your very first job?few people know? : I worked at Coles packing shopping bags and

: I once scored 12/10 for a geography pushing trolleys.assignment. I think that teacher was a bit generous. : Which actor would play you in a movie about

your life, and why?: Why did you decide to pursue a career in : George Clooney, hands down (laughs).

education? : If you could be any kind of animal, which one

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Fashionably accessorising his suit with a genial smile and genuine passion for education, BSHS’ Executive Principal Mr Wade Haynes took time out of his busy first six weeks to speak exclusively with The Ink Drop about school, cricket and eggs… among other things. Phoebe W reports.

A Day in the Life of…

Principal Haynes

B Y P H O E B E W

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would you be?: I'd be a dolphin. I like the

ocean, and dolphins are friendly, intelligent and helpful.

: If you could travel to any destination in the world, where would you go?

: Barcelona, Spain. It's my favourite city in the world.

: If someone wrote a biography about you, what would its title be?

: A Principled Life

: What is your all-time favourite book?

: Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières. It's a tragedy about the occupation of an Italian island during the war. He just writes beautifully.

: What came first, the chicken or the egg?

: I'd say the egg, but then the yolk would be on me.

: If you had a pet dragon, what would you name it?

: Fire-breather.

: What are your main hobbies?

: Apart from camping, going to the beach, and 4-wheel driving, I like building things,

ask instead what you can do for State High.”especially in the form of woodwork. I'm also interested in technology. I'm a bit of a nerd.

: What is the best part about being principal of State High?: Do you own an iPad?

: Working with wonderful people – wonderful : No, I've been resisting the temptation to students and wonderful teachers. I believe if we purchase an iPad because I'm waiting for them to look after everyone well, the school will prosper. release the new one. I'm definitely getting one.At the same time, we have to respect traditions. But it's the little things that are the big things, and : Who is your favourite musician?I'd choose the people every time. I'm really looking : I love U2, I saw them when they came. We forward to being here, and making the school the had third-row seats, and there was nobody in the best it can be.first two rows, so it was great.

: Do you have a quote to live by?: “Ask not what State High can do for you, but

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contemporaryfeature article

THE INTERNET.

“Don't click on it. It's not important. Your chemistry assignment - that's important.”

“No one is dying.”

“If they're dead, then they're past needing your help, aren't they?”

“Well. Wasn't that riveting. Can we go back to chemistry now?” “What could you possibly muster as a reply to 'lol'. I am fairly certain that 'lol' is a reply-less statement.”

“This could also be important. What if someone's seriously injured? What if they're dying?”

“They could be dead.”

-click- <John Smith commented on your photo: lol>

“He'll think I'm rude if I don't reply.”

“Nah, I'll just say something quick. It'll only take a second…”

Procrastination. Procrastination. Procrastination.

DCats that look like people and dancing videos of giraffes

ear old friend, it's three in the morning. We - stupid and insanely ridiculous things you usually really must stop meeting like this. It's an would not touch with a ten foot pole suddenly become unhealthy relationship we have and frankly, a intriguing on the INTERNET.

bit undignified.And of course,

DISCLAIMER: Now usually, I wouldn't be the website which is the worst of the worst: o p e n l y a d m i t t i n g m y p r o c r a s t i n a t o r y 'achievements'. They are nothing to be proud of and would, usually, be profusely denied. Picture this: It's 11pm. You've finally gotten to that

stage where you decide to get some research done. You So here I am once again. Sitting in my swivel chair, open up your browser, with every intention to type in which I cannot for the life of me stop swivelling. It is 3 wikipedia.org (a perfectly viable information source, am in the morning. My hair is a mess. And I am sitting regardless of what your teachers might say) but before here staring into the cold and unforgiving soul of an your mind can click to what's happening, you've empty word document, the blank white page mocking instead typed in 'facebook.com' and have hit enter. me relentlessly. Just a simple mistake, right? Just press the little red 'x'

and start again. So I have to write a feature article for the school But wait.newspaper. So I have to both start and finish that by You have one new notification. tomorrow- wait, it's already 3 am, I have to finish that And suddenly your mind splits into two: a sensible by today. It's fine. Heck, I once performed in a concert, side, and an 'I'm-bored-I-want-to-play' side.went to a preview screening of 'The Social Network', ate six glazed doughnuts, and wrote an Economics speech all in one crazy night. I can do this.…Oh gosh, I can't do this.

I think that's happened to all of us at some point. But it isn't really your fault, is it? You really do want to study, don't you? You know who should be blamed?

There is nothing from which the Internet can't distract you.

I mean, when do you ever hear anyone say, “Sorry, Miss. I didn't do my homework because I was too busy doing cartwheels around my house.” It always seems to be, “Sorry, Miss. I totally meant to write it but then I went on Youtube, so I didn't.”

The Internet, ladies and gentlemen, is evil. It's not your fault that you can't hand in an assignment on time! It's AND FOR SOME UNFATHOMABLE REASON, not your fault that you haven't bathed in four days THREE HOURS LATER, YOU'RE STILL ON because you've been seated at your computer, clicking FACEBOOK. Assignment far from completion, your mouse for so long that your hand has now been productiveness at absolute zero; but at least if anyone moulded into a permanent claw! No, it's the Internet's had been mauled by a jackal, you would have been fault for being too entertaining! the first to know.

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contemporarymusic

Introducing Hatless; consisting of Levi (drums), Michael (guitar) and Aleea and Lisa on vocals. I had the privilege of catching up with the band during the week.

Watch out for these guys, especially at State High Rocks in Term 3! I'll leave you with an excerpt from Michael's massively long statement: "Music and art come hand in hand. Texture, shape and colour create music in yourself. Tones, rhythms and melodies create visuals in your mind.”

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Best live act you've seen? My favourite live act is a small Brisbane

band called Chocolate Strings. For me, live acts are best small with a crowded room to dance to your own groove!

So tell me, how did you guys form? Well, we'd always chill and play And, what are your plans for 2011?

music together for fun, and just ended up doing it on a Well, I guess just to get involved in more more regular basis. I guess that just makes us a band. events and to encourage other bands to get their music

out and about… but yeah, definitely writing some new One day chilling in the music room, stuff is on the agenda.

Aleea magically apparated and said “let's do this”. So yeah, what Michael said. Cool, so you're looking forward to State

High Rocks?What genre would you say your music fits Yeah, definitely, it'll be great to get the

under? music scene in State High up and running again… and Well... I'd like to think that we're a just to basically hear some new and original music.

magical combination of punk-grunge-indie-hippy-rave. But I guess we're probably just experimental I remember going to my first State High alternative. Rocks when I was in year eight and watching the bands

perform in old K Block. My favourite act that year was And our individual tastes are pretty Yolande and the Sea; I brought their demo CD which I

diverse which I reckon is really beneficial when writing still listen to today!and interpreting music.

Musically, what have been your main influences?

Personally, almost any artist of any genre. From Jay-Z, Kanye West, Kid Cudi; to Daft Punk, Muse, Air or Gorillaz; to Jimmy Hendrix, Stevie Wonder or Cat Stevens (Yusuf Islam) and everything in between all of that.

Michael:

Michael:

Lisa:

Lisa:

Levi:

Levi:

Levi:

Aleea:

Aleea:

State High has a knack for attracting ridiculously talented musicians. Just listen to the likes of The Last Dinosaurs or The Cairos if you feel the need for persuasion. Proud to have been a stepping stone to such great musical aptitude, Brisbane State High continues to encourage such blossoming talent.

Hats offto State

HighBands

B Y L O U Y E N H

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contemporary

m u s i c a n d f i l m s

Modern society has had finally hitting success with Tangalooma. to cope with the likes of Overpass is definitely the winning hit off the album. J u s t i n B i e b e r a n d 'He likes to throw bricks from the overpass' are catchy Britney Spears' 'talents' lyrics teamed with a buoyant beat that really just to form the so-called makes you want to flail your arms around whilst current Pop genre. Fear mimicking a pogo-stick and simultaneously head no longer! Hope has been banging and singing along. The song was originally restored in the form of a about The Welsh Miners’ strike in 1984, where a man 6-piece Brisbane-born threw bricks from the overpass taxis went through to band - The John Steel transport people to and from the workplace, and killed S i n g e r s . F i t t i n g a driver. The John Steel Singers still manage to create a dubiously into the pop song talking about death into something relatively

category, they soon quell doubts with their upbeat club-worthy… now that's a talent. second album Tangalooma, released in November Most of the songs off the album are boppy and easy to 2010. sing along to, even with the jumble of slow songs and The bubbly sound of the band's EP In Colours enticed fast ones. radio DJ's of popular radio station Triple J, and the SO GO BUY IT NOW!band ended up winning the prevalent Unearthed Or, you can check them out for free at:Competition in 2008. Shortly after this, they released their first album, The Beagle and The Dove, before http://www.myspace.com/thejohnsteelsingers.

musicB Y R E M Y A GThe John Steel Singers

It seems as though these days our spray painted streets the name of Thierry Guetta and his series of obsessions lined in all their beautifully illegal colour have taken on from movie making to street artists, to street art, to quite the level of respect. And perhaps this is thanks money. Whilst at first it may be confusing as to the most part to the rising debate over just what it takes whether the man is actually an actor perfectly adapted to separate graffiti from art; a debate which appears to to the role of a classic back-alley, dodgy dealer with a be squeezing itself a more determined place in the very sucessfully irritating and amusing personality, modern politics of pop culture each day we continue to with the addition of Banksy's identity safe commentary not turn on the news. So, if you've ever wondered just (anonymity covered by voice alteration and back how it is that that large, man-sized, intricately spray lighting) you realise that Thierry, his thoughts, stories, painted stick figure got onto the side of that building mutton-chop, moustache and felt hat matchup, is all, you walk past every morning, Banksy's Exit Through very much for real. the Gift Shop might take your innocent level of As Banksy says within the movie, “there's probably a curiosity to a whole other level of interest. Just the moral in there somewhere.” – and while the moral of same as many other beautiful things under the the story may be unclear, what is clear is that this notorious tag of Banksy, this doco-come-movie enters special wayside production is not to be left unwatched the disreputable and ever cool world of street art to should you stumble upon it in the DVD store. Banksy's spindle a genuinely witty, interesting and hilarious art for storytelling unravels Exit Through the Gift Shop story about telling a story, that in the end was never as a perfect demonstration of not only the genius of told. Banksy but also of the beauty in the creation, Directed by Banksy himself, the documentary follows distribution and display of street art around the world. the life of a French shop keeper based in Los Angeles by Definitely something you'll want to see.

B Y L I S A KfilmExit Through the Gift Shop

Rated M

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contemporary

Explain the

Inexplicable!

B Y M E L I S S A N

?

In late 1997, The British Medical Journal (BMJ) reported the peculiar case of a middle-aged woman – referred to as AB – who in 1984 was sitting at her London home reading when she heard voices inside her head: “Please

don't be afraid...we would like to help you” the voices said. The voices then gave her the address to a hospital's brain scan department and told her to ask them for a scan. Although previously she hadn't suffered any symptoms, the scan revealed that she did in fact have a brain tumour and an inflamed brain stem. A thorough freak-out and brain operation later, the voices were heard again saying: “We're pleased to have helped you. Good-bye”.

ValuableVoices

Ever wanted a pen pal? How about a balloon buddy? In 2001, at her grandfather's 50th wedding anniversary, ten year old schoolgirl Laura Buxton decided she did. With her grandfather's help, she took a helium

balloon from the party and tied a card with her name, address and phone number on it. The chances of a balloon travelling very far without getting caught in a tree or popping are already very slim, let alone travelling around 140 miles into the garden of another girl by the same name. That's right, Laura Buxton's balloon travelled over 225 kilometres into another Laura Buxton's lawn ten days later. Not only did they share the same name, but the same age and same pets: black Labradors, a guinea pig and a rabbit. Soon after, they became very good friends.

Buxton's Balloon

Around the 1940's, two twin brothers – Jim Springer and Jim Lewis – were separated at birth. Unknowingly, both their adoptive parents decided to christen them as James. At their schools 40 miles from each

other, both boys enjoyed maths and carpentry but hated spelling. In adulthood, they pursued similar career paths: one twin becoming a security guard and the other, a deputy sheriff. As their lives progressed, they both married women by the name of Linda and had a son each, whom one named James Alan and the other named James Allan. Later, they both divorced their wives and remarried other women – both named Betty. Oh, and just to top it off, they both owned dogs named Toy.

DoubleLife

Source: British Medical Journal (1997)

Source: Unsolved Mysteries.

Source: How Stuff Works.

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entertainment

HOUSE SCOPES Allenby, Allenby, Allenby. What have you done? Just because you've experienced one triumph (i.e. winning swimming carnival) does not grant you the authority to parade around like you're Supreme Dictator of the Universe. Modesty is the best policy. Be proud of your achievements: just don't go strutting around and proclaiming it to the populace. Now, go off and prepare for your next great project. The stars tell me that this is your month.

Allenbians Something troubling you? Academic arena getting too competitive? Athletic endeavours annoying you? Is your bassoon/cello case getting too heavy for you? Everything feels as if it's going wrong but the stars tell me that this is just a phase. You need to step back, smell the daisies, take a deep breath and re-evaluate your options. Birdwood, you get in what you put out.

Birdwoodians

Mars in on the horizon and for Monash-tarians, this means it's an optimum time to tackle endeavours that require focus and dedication- those sorts of things that you're usually much too lazy and distracted to do. Like that Math assignment you have to finish by Friday but 'Gee gosh it's only Monday and I totally would do it now, but - I have plenty of time!” Or that novel you've been meaning to write about…

Monashtarians This is the month to face your fears! If you have a phobia of open water, learn how to swim. If you have a phobia of spiders, take a bath in a tub of them. If you have a phobia of ducks, go out for some Peking duck and show 'em who's boss. The sky's the limit for Glasgowegians this month. Don't let your fears conquer you; let yourself conquer your fears!

Glasgowegians

Co

mic

s:

UL

TI-

MA

NB

Y

CL

AI

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B Y Y E N E E S & Y U T I N G W

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entertainment

High choolSbeen there, done that!

Katina B takes a look into the lives of several previous high school graduates and the memories that they'll treasure forever. Read on to discover whether ex-high school students are similar in any way to those of today.

I was a teenage boy attending a high school in the country. We were kicking a football around when it got caught between some tree branches. Being the hero that I thought I was, I climbed the tree in order to retrieve the ball. Two things happened: the first was that I got the ball and the second was that I soon found out that I was too scared to come down. I was stuck in the tree. The school had to call the town fire brigade to help me get down. The fire brigade arrived and every student, teacher and person at the school watched as I was helped down the tree by a few firemen. I was sixteen years old.

I was born in Greece and attended high school in Athens. I enjoyed high school in Greece very much and have many memorable moments from there. High school in Greece is different to high school in Australia in many ways, and yet similar in others. I remember this one time in Year 12 Philosophy when we had a substitute teacher. He had an interesting method of teaching and told us to memorise the entire lesson he had just taught and then come back the next day and recite it. So, being the “good” student that I was, I went home and I memorised it. The next day, after reciting it correctly he accused me of cheating off the boy's book next to me. I was so angry, that after all my hard work, I had been accused of cheating. Not yet having reached maturity, my next well-reasoned course of action - how appropriate for a philosophy subject - was the right thing to do. I felt furious at the iniquity committed and seethed silently, convinced that I was the most misunderstood adolescent in the history of the planet. And that's Greeks for you, misunderstood yet so passionate.

Survivor No. 1: Mr A.

Apergis

I attended Corinda State High School and I remember this one particular time on the tennis courts. A basketball rolled over to me from some kids who had been playing with it, and doing the obvious thing that any sixteen year old boy would do, I kicked the basketball and attempted the biggest “up and over” that I could manage. Meanwhile (and unluckily for me) a Canadian teacher was walking nearby. Without him even realising that there was a loose ball in the air, all the students watched as the ball rose, rising higher and higher, and then all of a sudden it came down hard onto the Canadian teacher's head! It was a hard kick and would have hurt very much. I had shoulder length hair at the time, which was unfortunate, as he came towards me, grabbed me by my mass of hair and ears and said to me in a heavy Canadian accent, “Boy, if you ever do that again you are gonna get your head busted!” I will never forget that particular memory, nor will I ever forget it… even if you ever hit me on the head!

Survivor No. 2 Mr P.

Raven

Survivor No. 3: Anonymous

Boy, if you ever do that again you are gonna get your head busted!

B Y K A T I N A B

:

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magine you're listening to a song – specifically, a hardcore kind of song. It's Screamo in music is even statistically proven to be Ifantastic until all of a sudden your ears are harmful to plants, with a scientific experiment

assaulted with a horrific squalling that sounds like showing that the plants leaned away from a radio somebody trying to talk, eat and throw up all at the playing hardcore music while the lucky plants same time. It raises goosebumps like fingernails being subjected to classical music flourished, and scraping on a blackboard and pounds away grew twice as fast. Now the real question is - how relentlessly at your eardrums. That, ladies and do we know that this doesn't apply to humans? gents, is the fine art of 'screamo'. That's right, we don't. The theory would certainly

explain Prianka's height, or lack thereof.Why, oh why, do bands insist on incorporating screaming into their music? Quite simply, it is I'm not denying that it takes real talent to be able noise that sounds terrible. Try as I might, I just to scream. Trust me, I've tried. However, it is one can't find any deeper meaning in screamo beyond among a score of other useless 'talents' that takes the unintelligible, hair-raising, screeching vocals. ages to learn but can – or should – never be used.

Screamo, shrieking out some words in a rage-Now, some people might argue that screamo is a fuelled frenzy with thrashing guitars in the form of emotional release. Screaming, alone, in background, should. Never. Be. Used. It's all too your room is an effective form of emotional release much for the senses, really.but listening to an angry guy screaming through your iPod earphones? It might be just me but I find That being said, perhaps screamo could become a it more emotionally releasing to listen to songs sort of competitive sport to showcase the world's whose (very deep and meaningful, I can assure strongest or most versatile set of vocal chords. But you) lyrics I can actually understand, not to as a great accompaniment to a song? It's not mention sing along to. It sort of ruins it when you exactly my cup of tea.have to Google the lyrics to a screamo song.

Affirmative: Screamo is terrible B Y C H I N

: it’s bad for you.

entertainmentpage 19

Negative: Screamo is YEAHHH!

ince its creation in the early 1990's, the problems. Generally, lyrics are sad, angry, defiant, music genre 'screamo' has taken flight from or just plain raging, and I can guarantee every SSan Diego and is now present throughout teenager feels like that sometimes. The best way of

the world. Deriving from hardcore punk, this countering it, without swearing at your parents genre includes 'typical rock instrumentation', and punching a wall? Listening to 'screamo'. More angry lyrics and, of course, screaming vocals. often than not, the people who sing those songs However, as the world progresses, this style of have such terrible problems that yours seem music is continually labelled as bad; it's even been minuscule in comparison. Furthermore, even just suggested that 'screamo' is the cause of young screaming along with them makes you feel better; adults and teenagers getting out of control. But, it gives you the safety of being rebellious and then again, how can you call a genre of music bad shouting in the safety of your own room. So what's for you? And, there are many redeeming features so bad about it? Yes, it may be a bit loud, but if it of it too. So, to me, there is nothing wrong with this helps us kids get through our difficult teenage sort of music, and it should be fought for. The fact years then why should parents complain? that these songs are often a very good emotional release is one reason why 'screamo' isn't all gloom People can argue all they want to, but really, and doom. they're fighting a lost battle. Music cannot be

stopped, and it shouldn't be, because there's Teenagers need emotional release. Being one nothing wrong with it. 'Screamo' music is a refuge myself, I would know. Also, being a listener of for many teenagers I know, and there is no real 'screamo' music itself helps me see (or hear) that it evidence that it's bad for you. actually does help me feel better about my own

B Y P R I A N K A T

entertainment page 20

entertainment

Q:

Q:

Q:

Q:

What do you like best about dance troupe?

Which do you prefer: eating salsa or dancing it?

What eisteddfods have you been in?

What's your favourite subject at school?

abstract contemporary routine. To start the competitive year off, we will be competing at

I like the dances we do and performing them at the Brisbane Eisteddfod, where we hope to eisteddfods. We do routines in hip hop, perform three dances: contemporary, hip hop contemporary and musical theatre and have a and musical theatre. lot of fun making friends and meeting new people in the same and different grades who all share a common interest.

I haven't actually tried salsa dancing yet, but it would be fun! I also love eating it with nachos!

Last year, Junior Dance Troupe competed in some eisteddfods including the Brisbane Eisteddfod and BPAC. At the Brisbane eisteddfod we won highly commended and at Of course I love dance as a subject, but I also BPAC we won the competition with our really like English.

Q:

Q:

Q:

Q:

What did you do to celebrate your graduation?

What do you miss most about State High?

What is the best advice anyone has given you?

What are you doing this year now that you have finished school?

meeting new people, learning new things and experiencing uni life.

To celebrate graduation, my friends and I went to Japan for 10 days. It took us approximately one year to plan for this trip but the reward was fantastic! Also, during stressful times in Year I miss State High lunchtimes with my friends 12, our graduation trip really motivated us to the most! work hard and try our best with everything. We really had the best time of our lives!

One of the best advices I've been given is to get out of your comfort zones and embrace every

This year, I'm studying dentistry at Griffith opportunity in life. You get out of what you put University. I'm really looking forward to in!

Louyen on Fastrack

Sarah on Dance Troupe

Shelly on graduating

Q:

Q:

Q:

Do you enjoy Fast Track Maths?

Are you good at trivia?

What are you plans for after BSHS?

Maybe something like a vet? After all, bunnies Fast Track is pretty cool and despite its nerdy are cute.connotations it's probably only as hard as normal maths is for everyone else. Most of us have been doing it since Year 8, so it's been a I tried the McDonald's version (you know, the gradual progression to more difficult one that came with a Happy Meal?), and I knew concepts... haven't done too much of the 'uni all the answers to those… except that Lleyton maths' yet seeing as the year has only just Hewitt won a US Open. Who knew he was any begun. Fortunately, though, the teacher good?! Haha. I like trivia, but I just haven't had promises it won't be hard. Fingers crossed! much of a chance to play the real version of the

classic board game.

I don't really know, which is pretty bad seeing as I only have a year left to decide. It's not like I haven't thought about it, I've thought hard.

B Y E L L A B

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informative

Operation

Many years ago, the generally held belief any fatal flaws in the plan, testing the product, was that the world was flat. Of course, making changes, building the final product, people experimented and thought about finding a place to launch from (possible sites, I am

it and decided really it just had to be round. Even able to report, are at Clifton or Goondiwindi), so, there are still those who deny this truth. They receiving permission from CASA (Civil Aviation argue that the Earth is flat; that pictures of the Safety Authority) and finally, waiting for a good curvature of the earth are created with Photoshop; day to launch. It seems like a long wait and plenty that you can fall off the edge of the world, etc. etc. of work before rewards rush in but it seems worth I'm certainly not a believer in the flat earth it to achieve the gorgeous images and video of the movement and two State High Year 9 students curvature of the earth. Liam M-K and Riccardo M M certainly aren't So why would Operation Helios tackle such a either. They are attempting to capture pictures of potentially tricky and audacious project? I'm sure the curvature of the Earth from an altitude of 35 that it was for fun. And certainly, by the post km using a weather balloon and a camera… and sourced in the above paragraph, it could be some other equipment as well. Their plan is to assumed that these two Grade Nines enjoy putting assemble an insulated capsule which is designed their minds through extra frustrations. But to house a SPOT personal tracker which will according to them and other amateur high-provide updates every ten minutes and an 8GB altitude balloonist groups, it really is fun and action sports camera. All this will be attached to a worthwhile to create the craft, launch it and 1kg weather balloon filled with the equivalent witness the often spectacular results. helium of 135 party balloons to raise the balloon

So let us get this straight, Riccardo M M and Liam and its precious package to an altitude of 35 M-K are taking pictures…of the earth? Interesting. kilometres. At this height, the balloon will burst Taking pictures of the earth using technology from and the equipment will begin to fall (don't worry, it eBay? Compelling. Doing this when you're has a parachute) and drift down to Earth. At least, fourteen years old? Very well done. Getting local that's the plan anyway. businesses and people who stumble across your Whether this plan, that will hopefully become an website to donate as well as liaising with other eventuality, succeeds is a question that only a interested groups to share tactics and equipment? higher power knows. Though, it is incredibly Great business skills. All together? Wow! So will likely, almost certain that it will succeed, as most they succeed? That's the plan anyway. amateur high-altitude ballooning attempts have For more information and to donate visit triumphed with outstanding results and

remarkable images. Images of being inside fluffy white clouds, of leaving those fluffy white clouds behind in the balloon's (figurative) dust, of the

To see what high-altitude ballooning is all about white splattered blue globe, of the aura-like glow it visit www.projecthorus.orgaround Earth and more will fill Operation Helios'

website's picture gallery. But all of this is in the future. First, Operation Helios has to finish writing scripts, designing the capsule, ironing out

www.operationhelios.com

B Y J U L I A V A N H

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S

is not just about women; it is also about men. In order to combat this serious issue, it is important that both men and women are on board and understand the issues.

For girls, in places overseas, such as Iran, a women's life has only half the value of a man's, a father can legally marry his daughter off to a 70-year-old man when she's just 13 years old and women are not free to choose how they dress in public.

There are many things that you can do to support Amnesty in its fight for gender equality:

o, we've all heard about that poor girl in Nepal, who had to walk on her knees for ten years and seen those Grade 11's and 12's get

up on assembly and talk about 'Amnesty'. Well, perhaps, attending the Human Rights meeting at lunchtime isn't particularly high on the to-do list and all these horrible stories seem kind of unreal. These places are so far away and it doesn't affect me. Right?

But that's no reason to do nothing about it.

The good news is that there are organisations such as Amnesty International at BSHS. Amnesty International is a non-profit and non-government organisation and a global leader in promoting and defending dignity and human rights. Amnesty For boys: when you support Amnesty's work on works to get public support to pressure this issue, you are fighting for your mother, sister, governments to protect the basic rights of their friend, girlfriend or classmate. This is not people, such as the freedom of speech, the right to something that women should have to do alone.basic education, safety and worship and the right to make decisions about dress, work and Everyone has a different part to play in the world. marriage. However, there are some things that we all can

unite for. Change is possible. We can achieve it.For BSHS's Amnesty Group, the first campaign of this year is Gender Inequality. Gender inequality

1. Come to an Amnesty meeting at every Monday lunchtime at A102 and get involved or find out more

2. Come to Amnesty expos held at P Block and E Block – look out for advertisements around the school

3. Tell friends and family about Amnesty and its campaigns

4. Visit the Amnesty International Australia website:http://www.amnesty.org.au/

informative

B Y E L L A B

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