The Sunday Times [Perth, WA] 
19 July 1992

PROBE CALL ON UNI SEX CLAIMS
By Joe Poprzeczny

    An archaeologist claims University of WA
Vice-Chancellor Professor Fay Gale has tried to suppress a
serious problem in the archaeology department by merging it
with anthropology.

    Mr Joe Mattner has written to all 22 university
senators seeking a thorough investigation of the former
department's activities. 

    "Suspension of the department and its transfer to
anthropology means there might be no further scrutiny of the
issues," he said.

    "The departmental review committee which assessed the
department late last year recommended an investigation
into allegations by students of discrimination and
harassment: matters outside of its brief."

    Mr Mattner, a UWA graduate based in Meeketharra,
claims he was discriminated against while studying.

    "Other students have alleged far more serious discrimination and
even harassment," he said.

    "Some of the complaints involve staff-student sexual
relations, restrictions on intellectual freedom, students
being publicly ridiculed and ostracised and favoritism in
employment."

    "None of these issues is likely to be resolved by the
temporary suspension of the department."

    Sexual contact complaints surfaced during the
departmental review.

    No obvious disciplinary actions were taken, but a folio
of letters by students to Professor Gale and the committee
resulted in Professor Sandra Bowdler standing down as
archaeology department head.

    The issue was clouded with secrecy and legal problems
made it difficult for the media to outline complaints.

    Some relate to allegations of sexual interactions
between staff and students and occupation health and safety
issues during outback field trips.

    Because the department has merged, the matter has
avoided Academic Board debate.