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2024 STUDENT ELECTIONS

These are your 2025 Student Representative Candidates:

President

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Jack Oates Pryor (he/they)

Hey guys, gals, and non-binary pals,

I’m Jack, an Arts(Theatre, German)/Law student who loves hiking in Tassie’s wild, deep chats with friends, and film scores.

I was your Southern Campuses President and Deputy President in 2024, and saw the systems which aren’t serving student needs. In the last year, my motto has become, “Be kind with people, Be bold against systems” and I’ve developed the skills, knowledge and networks to stand against inequity again, this time as your President in 2025.

As a student representative, my focus is on empathetic advocacy of your student voice. As a student leader, my focus is on empowering others and serving our community’s needs.

The Your Uni, Your TUSA ticket is, in my opinion, the strongest team of candidates for an independent, united State Council and passionate NUS Delegation who care about your experience, voice and needs.

Vote for me, JOP, and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

General Secretary

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Belle Smith (she/her)

Hey lovely people! I’m Belle, and I’m excited to run for 2025 General Secretary!

Having grown up experiencing rural communities across Australia, I have a deep connection to nature and a resounding appreciation for Australia’s diverse communities. This has influenced me to strive for compassion and equity in all I do, as I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard and valued. This sentiment inspires my approach to studying Social Work and informs my leadership capability.

I believe that students deserve a voice in all University changes, and I am committed to listening, understanding, and working with you to create a more positive environment for all. If elected, I promise to bring a relentless energy and commitment to ensure that at UTAS, compassion guides action and every student feels empowered to make their difference.

Vote for me and the “Your Uni, Your TUSA” team, for fairness, equity, kindness, and a powerful student voice!

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

Lucian Beattie (he/him)

Hello all! I’m Lucian Beattie, and I’m a first-year law student running for 2024 General Secretary.

I have dedicated a large part of my life to trying to improve my local community, places of education, and even the world by listening to and representing as many people as possible. As a first-generation migrant from Thailand who has lived on both the rural east coast and suburban south of Tassie and gone through the public education system, I’m no stranger to the vital importance of diverse experiences and opinions in improving communities.

With my experience in previous representative roles and managing the finances and meetings of numerous local groups and organisations, I can guarantee that I will do my utmost best to represent and follow up on every opinion, idea, and feedback brought to me by you.

We deserve fair representation and input with the education that affects our future, and I will always fight for that.

Vote Lucian for General Secretary, and every AFR member.

Equity President

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Mark Warrington (he/him)

I’m Mark Warrington, running for re-election as your Equity President for 2025. Over the past year, I’ve proudly led the development and formation of the TUSA Equity Committee, strengthening our commitment for an inclusive campus wherever you are. As someone with vision and hearing impairments, I bring a unique perspective and deep empathy for students with disabilities, ensuring their voices are heard.

Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community I am dedicated to advocating for marginalised groups and fostering a culture of equity at our university. My upbringing in a traditional and conservative farming community instilled in me resilience and determination, traits that have driven me to achieve real change.

If re-elected, I will continue to work tirelessly to make our university a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive space for all students.

Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

Ranae Zollner (she/they)

As someone with lived experience & having studied at UTAS previously, I can see how much has changed & what areas need to improve right now!

Despite UTAS’ insistence support is available for students with intersectional needs, there are still real systematic hurdles that stop students from getting help to succeed!

With your support, changes lead & created by the very people who are most impacted can be achieved! We can fight back, we can resist!

Vote RESISTANCE for your TUSA & NUS Delegates!

1. Ranae Zollner – Equity President & NUS Delegate
2. Ciaran Toman – NUS Delegate
3. Matt Haubrick – Southern Campus President & NUS Delegate
4. Sam Campbell – Education President Postgraduate & NUS Delegate
5. Vaness Yap (Independent) – Education President Undergrad

Education President (Undergraduate)

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

Imran Khan (he/him)

Hello everyone! My name is Imran Khan, and I am a first year student at the University of Tasmania. I am presently pursuing my Bachelor of Laws, and I am interested in applying for the role of Education President – Undergraduate.

I would like to apply for this role to advocate for a constantly improving academic experience for all undergraduates. Moreover, I want to ensure that the needs of undergraduates are met, whilst ensuring that concerns and suggestions are communicated to the Student Association in a timely and efficient manner.

I believe that I am the best candidate for this position, and will be able to carry the role diligently, and to the best of my abilities

Yours sincerely,
Imran Khan

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Siska-Lut Buelens (she/her)

I am Siska, and I’m eager to run for Undergraduate Education President, after nearly a year in the role of College of Science and Engineering TUSA Experience Leader (CoSE TEL). The past year, I’ve worked closely with students and staff, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges we face. I’m ready to tackle these issues and represent the interests of all undergraduate students.

I will advocate for a higher standard of both in-person and online learning across campuses. Moving lectures on campus is crucial, while also ensuring that students who rely on online learning have access to the same quality education.

I am committed to making sure students are involved in UTAS decision-making. No matter your campus, cohort, or enrolment type, your concerns matter, and I will ensure they’re heard. I’ll also push for increased financial support, so no student is left behind.

Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Running as an independent

Vaness Yap (she/her)

From my first year in Tasmania, I’ve been deeply involved in committees: as an advocate for mental health, women’s rights, and international student support. Known for my collaboration skills, even by my opponents, I am a vocal and active student who listens to the concerns of others. My campaign focuses on 3 key areas:

1. Enhancing Mental Health: I’ll push for expanded mental health resources, ensuring every student has the support they need.

2. Championing Inclusivity: I’ll advocate for equity and inclusion, ensuring all voices are valued and supported.

3. Improving Campus Life: I’ll work to enhance academic support and streamline communication between students and staff for a better university experience.

Your voice matters. I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration can drive change, and I’m committed to bringing that energy to TUSA. Vote for me, and let’s work together to create a more inclusive and supportive UTAS community!

Education President (Postgraduate)

Running as an independent

Anjia Ye

As a dedicated postgraduate student at the University of Tasmania, I am committed to enhancing the academic experience for all postgraduate students. With my research experience in Artificial Intelligence and education, I want to enhance teaching and learning using AI responsibly and ethically. My methods include strengthening postgraduate societies, improving communication between students and the university, and advocating for better resources and support services. Together, we can create a more connected and supportive academic community. Vote for me to represent your interests and drive positive change at UTAS.

Running as an independent

Jeppe van der Lee (he/him)

I am excited to nominate myself for postgraduate Education President! I aim for an inclusive and empowering university experience:

Support: Strengthening mental health resources and academic advising to ensure every student feels supported.
Collaboration: Boost networking opportunities and interdisciplinary projects to foster a vibrant, connected community.
Advocacy: Championing your needs and concerns to ensure student voices influence university decisions.

Best,
Jeppe

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Namesh Kumar (he/him)

I’m Namesh Kumar, running for the 2025 State Council election as your Postgraduate Education President. Over the past four months, I have worked as a TUSA academic student experience leader. I am committed to improving student experiences and ensuring their voices are heard. I am an international student reading for my master’s in business administration in my second semester. I bring in the understanding and perspective of students from the postgraduate course myself. I intend to represent the whole postgraduate student cohort: distance & in-person, University-wide, inclusively and engagingly. I will ensure that I will engage with academic societies and academic TUSA Experience Leaders for more comprehensive postgraduate student representation. Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

Sam Campbell (he/him)

I’m Sam & I’m mad…

More than ever before graduates & postgraduates are struggling with the Cost of Living pressure. Our union, TUSA, has been kneecapped. And the university continues to rely on the unpaid labour of postgrads work! Enough is enough!

With your help we can reinvigorate TUSA. We can create innovative ways to support one another with cost of living pressures. We will resist against unfair expectations on postgraduates.

Vote 1 to 4 for RESISTANCE for your TUSA Representatives & NUS Delegates!

1st Ranae Zollner – NUS Delegate & Equity President
2nd Ciaran Toman – NUS Delegate
3rd Matt Haubrick – NUS Delegate & Southern Campus President
4th Sam Campbell – NUS Delegate & Education President – Postgraduate
5th Vaness Yap (Independent) – Education President Undergrad

Vote against the status quo! Vote against “business-as-normal”! Vote as an act of RESISTANCE!

Southern Campus President

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

Matt Haubrick

I’m Matt Haubrick, struggling to complete a masters of teaching, and fighting for:

Guaranteed, affordable accommodation for all students
Fair wages for student placements
A vibrant, accessible student community on Sandy Bay & City Campus
All student fees to go directly to TUSA; your democratic student body
A demilitarized university with financial and academic ties to private weapons manufacturers, militaries, and apartheid regimes banned
A democratic revolution for students and staff to control our University & restore it as a seat of learning rather than a real estate venture
A Free Palestine
Return of unused University lands to the palawa and pakana peoples of lutruwita. Always Was and Always Will Be.

Please VOTE RESISTANCE for NUS Delegates & TUSA Reps:
1. Ranae Zollner & Equity President
2. Ciaran Toman & NUS Delegate
3. Matt Haubrick & Southern Campus President
4. Sam Campbell & Education President Postgraduate
5. Vaness Yap (Independent) – Education President Undergrad

Solidarity Forever!

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

Oscar Wadsley (he/him)

I have to declare something: I have a vested interest in making living and learning in the South better. Living and growing up in rural Kingborough, attending local government schools, studying in the CBD before moving to UTas Sandy Bay, where at 19 I’m in my first year of law (and philosophy), I believe making a difference starts with getting involved – whether in the Premier’s Youth Advisory Council or a school breakfast club. That’s why I’m throwing my hat in for a better UTas with AFR.

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Ruby Fox (she/her)

Hey everyone! I’m Ruby, and I’m excited to nominate for the role of your Southern Campuses President for 2024.

Growing up in Margaret River, WA, I’m passionate about all things ocean and environment. I was drawn to Tassie with the promise of adventure and community and have adored my last two years pursuing a Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science here.

As a resident in Student Accommodation, and a Student Ambassador, I am passionate about the importance of strong representation to improve wellbeing and satisfaction across our community. I believe we can build a campus where every student, no matter their background or course of study, feels valued, supported and connected.

As your Southern Campuses President in 2024, I promise to let your stories drive my advocacy. Together we can create practical action for sustainable outcomes. So please vote for me and all other “Your Uni, Your TUSA” candidates, for an effective, equitable, kind and transparent student voice!

Northern Campus President

Running as an independent

Anjia Ye

As your Northern Campus President, I am committed to transforming our student life by exploring the beauty of Tasmania. My vision is to build a strong bridge between the TUSA and our local community, including organisations like Fishing Tasmania and local communities. Together, we will create monthly activities that go wild. Say goodbye to the usual sausage BBQs and hello to events featuring fresh produce from our garden and local ingredients for cooking. Let’s make our campus life vibrant, authentic, and unique. Vote for me, and let’s make this vision a reality!

Running as an independent

Hanna Shojaee Pour (she/her)

I’m running for Northern Campus President because I believe that student life in Launceston deserves more than just textbooks and deadlines. I believe we need an advocate who can not only navigate the complexities of academia but also keep things interesting. As your rep, I’ll focus on creating a vibrant campus where everyone feels connected, and making your student experience less mundane and more memorable. I’ll work to support clubs and societies, organize cool events, and ensure your voice is heard at the TUSA. Let’s make our campus a place where you can get your work done and good times are always around the corner.

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Terenz Eujean Batac (he/him)

Emboldened me, Empowering you! There’s so much we can do! Howdy! Terenz here, Delightfully Running as your Northern Campuses President. A student of architecture, a student of life, Living the dream’s my usual tagline! I poke and remind you that we’re blessed living and studying at UTAS. And to which how TUSA is the peak body organization, that has the platform to Amplify our voices, championing your interests at heart and ultimately interweaving further value across to you and through the whole institution. Through this role, I can further be of catalyst for enriched value having endeavours in committed volunteering throughout the local community (Multicultural Broadcaster – City Park Radio, Harvest market, Interweave Arts) and institutionally aligned (Accomodation – North, Gardens, Creative Pod, DArchside). Borrowin’ from Burn da Floor, Dare to Dream! Let’s dare together!
Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for and effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Cradle Coast Campus President

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Angus Bisset Stewart

I’m Angus and I’m thrilled to be running as a candidate for Cradle Coast President. Originally from Sydney, I moved to Burnie three years ago to pursue a career in nursing and get away from the big city. I enjoy sport, making music, cooking on a budget, computers and the outdoors. I am very passionate about helping others and it is my belief that we should all have a fair go. As someone with living with ADHD I really understand the difficulty of navigating the intricacies of study whilst at university. I am dedicated to improving support for students and the quality of education offered at our Cradle Coast Campus. I am currently the Cradle Coast President until November and therefore have experience in the role. If elected I will continue to work relentlessly to improve life on campus and ensure that Cradle Coast students are not left behind.

Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for and effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice.

National Union of Students (NUS) Delegate

Please see below list of Candidates by Ticket or Independent status, and detailed statements, for each NUS Delegate Candidate.

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

Imran Khan
Jacob J Puthenparambil
Lucian Beattie
Oscar Wadsley

Running as an Independent

Anjia Ye
Vaness Yap

Running on the Resistance Ticket

Ciaran Toman
Matt Haubrick
Ranae Zollner
Sam Campbell

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Ashley Schmidt
Belle Smith
Jack Oates Pryor
Liam McLaren
Mark Warrington
Millie Meyers

Scroll to View Candidate Details

If viewing via mobile, you may need to click and drag for the full Candidate Statement to appear.

Anjia Ye

Running as an Independent

Ash Schmidt (she/her)

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Hello! I’m Ashley Schmidt, running for the National Union of Students to enhance student life across Australia. As a first-year student at the University of Tasmania, I’ve taken on leadership roles as the Sports Convenor for Hytten Hall, a Movember student ambassador, and worked on initiatives focused on well-being and sustainability.

I’ve organized intercollege sports to promote mental health and community through friendly competition, expanded fitness programs, and collaborated with university staff to create ‘Fit Games’ during Wellbeing Week. I also led sustainable cooking workshops, teaching students budget-friendly, eco-conscious meals, and helped host fortnightly campus dinners for student connection.

As a NUS representative, I will continue advocating for mental health services, student-run activities, and sustainability initiatives, making university life more inclusive and supportive. Vote for me and the ‘Your Uni, Your TUSA’ team for a united, thriving student community

Belle Smith (she/her)

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Hey lovely people! I’m Belle, and I’m running for one of your 2025 NUS Delegates!

As someone who has lived in student accommodation, I’ve faced the pressures of rising rent, expensive groceries, and the struggle to balance study with financial survival. The cost of living crisis is hitting us hard, forcing many to choose between basic necessities and their education.

I’m passionate about pushing for reform that makes student life more affordable, from advocating for more accessible housing to securing financial support for students. My experience as a student leader has given me a deep understanding of these challenges, and I’m committed to making real changes that benefit all students.

With a background in Social Work and a drive for equity, I’ll ensure that the voices of students dealing with these pressures are heard and that we push for the reform we need to thrive.

Vote for me and the “Your Uni, Your TUSA” team, for fairness, equity, kindness, and a powerful student voice!

Ciaran Toman (he/him)

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

Free Palestine.

Vote 1 to 4 for RESISTANCE for your NUS Delegates (& TUSA Reps)!

1 = Ranae Zollner (& Equity President)
2 = Ciaran Toman (& NUS Delegate)
3 = Matt Haubrick (& Southern Campus President)
4 = Sam Campbell (& Education President Postgraduate)
5 = Vaness Yap (Independent) – Education President Undergrad

Imran Khan (he/him)

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

I believe that I am the best candidate for this position, and will be able to carry the role diligently, and to the best of my abilities

Yours sincerely,
Imran Khan

Jack Oates Pryor (he/they)

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Hey guys, gals and non-binary pals, it’s me again!

There are two reasons why you should vote for “Your Uni, Your TUSA” for all six NUS Delegates:

1. We know the systems well, and can use this prior experience to best support and advocate for you. Last year, I was elected to attend the NUS National Conference and have since campaigned with the NUS ‘End Student Poverty’ teams and was quoted in national ABC news as an advocate representing your student voice.

2. As ticket focused on independent representation of your student voice, it’s in your best interests to elect students who don’t bring their personal political agenda into this work. Instead, choose students who listen to your story and concerns, represent you genuinely as strong advocates for change, and are independent from partisan politics.

Vote for me, JOP, and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Jacob J Puthenparambil

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

My experience in fostering cross-cultural collaboration, alongside a deep understanding of sustainability and innovation, equips me to effectively represent UTAS. I am passionate about driving meaningful discussions and building lasting networks that contribute to positive change. My proven track record in leading projects and my ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders will ensure I make a strong impact as a delegate.

Liam McLaren (he/him)

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Over the last two years I have served as the President of TUSA across a major time period of change and upheaval across the board. We have seen huge wins national wins, including:

Paid placements for set degrees
Overhauls of the HECS/HELP indexation schemes to lower our student debts
Creation of a National Action Plan for Gender Based Violence in Higher Education
Another National Student Safety Survey to be conducted in 2025
Both a new national student ombudsman and the ongoing creation of a national student charter
Ongoing pushes for overhaul of youth allowance, Austudy and Abstudy
Federal promises of National Racism on Campus Surveys to be conducted in the upcoming year
Minimum legislated SSAF to student-led organisations like TUSA

All these items are the reason why I am nominating for NUS delegate to ensure our good work is continued into 2025.
So please vote for me Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Lucian Beattie (he/him)

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

Hello all! I’m Lucian Beattie, and I’m a first-year law student running for 2024 General Secretary.

We deserve fair representation and input with the education that affects our future, and I will always fight for that.

Vote Lucian for General Secretary, and every AFR member.

Mark Warrington (he/him)

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Hi! I’m Mark Warrington, and I’m excited to run as your delegate for the National Union of Students (NUS)! I believe that a strong voice from Tasmania is essential in shaping national policies that address our unique challenges at UTAS.

Key issues needing a national perspective include:

Access to Quality Education: Many Tasmanians live outside the capital, creating disparities in education access. I will advocate for equitable funding to support all students.
Cost of Living: Rising living costs strain students studying at UTAS. I will push for better financial support.
Mental Health Services: As a remote state, we need improved access to mental health services. I will fight for better national support for student well-being.

With my experience as TUSA Equity President and other leadership roles such as director of Disability Voices Tasmania, I’m committed to ensuring our voices shape national policy.

Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Matt Haubrick

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

I’m Matt Haubrick, struggling to complete a masters of teaching, and fighting for:

Guaranteed, affordable accommodation for all students
Fair wages for student placements
A vibrant, accessible student community on Sandy Bay & City Campus
All student fees to go directly to TUSA; your democratic student body
A demilitarized university with financial and academic ties to private weapons manufacturers, militaries, and apartheid regimes banned
A democratic revolution for students and staff to control our University & restore it as a seat of learning rather than a real estate venture
A Free Palestine
Return of unused University lands to the palawa and pakana peoples of lutruwita. Always Was and Always Will Be.

Solidarity Forever!

Millie Meyers (she/her)

Running on the Your Uni Your TUSA Ticket

Hi! My name is Millie and I’m running to be one of your NUS delegates.

After growing up in Canberra, I decided to move back to my hometown of Hobart to go to university. I’m currently in my first year of studying for a Bachelor of Arts/Master of Teaching, majoring in politics and public policy. Before you say anything, I know it’s very Canberra of me to study politics. I’ve always had an interest in politics and believe there are many changes needed in the world to make it a safe and fair environment.

I believe in equality because everyone deserves respect and opportunity, regardless of their situation. Stopping gender-based violence is key to a safe society, and accessible education should be a right for all. I’m committed to representing your voice, fostering transparency, and driving positive change for a stronger, fairer community.

Vote for me and the Your Uni, Your TUSA team for an effective, equitable, kind, and transparent student voice!

Oscar Wadsley (he/him)

Running on the Alliance for Fair Representation (AFR) Ticket

Ranae Zollner (she/they)

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

Vote 1 to 4 for RESISTANCE! Your TUSA & NUS Delegates!

1st Ranae Zollner – NUS Delegate/Equity President
2nd Ciaran Toman – NUS Delegate
3rd Matt Haubrick – NUS Delegate/Southern Campus President
4th Sam Campbell – NUS Delegate/Education President – Postgraduate
5th Vaness Yap (Independent) – Education President Undergrad

Vote RESISTANCE!

Despite UTAS’ insistence support is available for students with intersectional needs, there are still real systematic hurdles that stop students from succeeding! We can resist!
As someone with lived experience & having studied at UTAS previously, I can see how much has changed & what areas need to improve right now! We should resist!
WITH YOUR HELP, changes lead & created by the very people who are most impacted can be achieved! We can fight back! We will resist!

Sam Campbell (he/him)

Running on the RESISTANCE Ticket

Vote 1 to 4 for RESISTANCE for your NUS Delegates (& TUSA Reps)!

I believe in you. I believe the future starts here with us right now…

What is occurring across universities around so-called-Australia is a spit in the face to students like yourself. Mass mobilisations & civil resistance from young people across the continent have been roundly dismissed INSPITE OF INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY. Tertiary institutions continue to block their ears to the unison of voices calling to boycott, divest, & sanction; to pay the rent; to look after students who are THE FUTURE!

Today you can vote against “business-as-normal”! Today you can vote to stop the commodification of human rights like education. Today vote as an act of RESISTANCE!

Vaness Yap (she/her)

Running as an Independent

Vaness Yap – Candidate for TUSA Undergraduate President

1. Enhancing Mental Health: I’ll push for expanded mental health resources, ensuring every student has the support they need.
2. Championing Inclusivity: I’ll advocate for equity and inclusion, ensuring all voices are valued and supported.
3. Improving Campus Life: I’ll work to enhance academic support and streamline communication between students and staff for a better university experience.