13 April 2006
Monash University experts are available to speak to the media on various issues related to the Easter period.
Religion and the tradition of Easter: Professor Gary Bouma, head of the School of Political and Social Inquiry, is an expert on religion and spirituality. He is able to comment broadly on religion and the traditions of Easter. Professor Bouma can be contacted on 0409 234 960. Associate Professor Constant Mews, Director of the Centre for Studies in Religion and Theology, can comment on the history of religion, interfaith dialogue and spirituality. Dr Mews can be contacted on 9898 2283.
Nutrition and consumption of chocolate: Professor Mark Wahlqvist, Director of the Asia Pacific Health and Nutrition Centre can comment on the nutritional benefits of chocolate and other issues relating to food consumed over the Easter period. To contact Dr Wahlqvist call Ms Natasha Whalley, Media Communications on +61 3 9905 9201 or 0437 458 457.
Retail and consumer trends: Mr Steve Ogden-Barnes, Program Director of the Australian Centre for Retail Studies, is an expert on retail trends and can comment on the Easter Saturday shopping phenomenon -- where people flock to the stores after being unable to shop on Good Friday. Mr Ogden-Barnes can be contacted on 0418 321 068.
Traffic and road safety issues: Professor Ian Johnston, Director of the Monash University Accident Research Centre, is an expert on road safety and injury prevention. He is able to comment on issues relating to road safety and drink driving. Professor Johnston can be contacted on 0419 350 930.
Workplace laws: Professor Julian Teicher, Head of the Department of Management, can comment on the Howard Government's industrial relations reforms and how they may impact on workers during the Easter holidays. Professor Teicher can be contacted on 0418 542 533.
Sporting attendance: Dr Ross Booth, a lecturer in economics, is an expert on the economics of professional sporting leagues, in particular the AFL. He can comment on player drafts, salary capping, the location of teams, team finances, revenue sharing and competitive balance in the AFL (compared with NRL and NBL). Dr Booth can be contacted on 9905 2434 or 5989 0726.
Impact of Easter on mental health: Associate Professor David Clarke, from the Department of Psychological Medicine, can comment on how the Easter break may impact on the mental health of some people, for example those spending Easter alone. To contact Dr Clarke call Ms Natasha Whalley, Media Communications on +61 3 9905 9201 or 0437 458 457.
For further information contact Ms Natasha Whalley, Media Communications on +61 3 9905 9201 or 0437 458 457.
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