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Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
MANNKAL
F O U N D AT I O N ’ S
BI-ANNUAL REVIEW
S p ri n g 2 0 1 8 Vo l . 1 8
Editor: Eva Christensen
Mannkal’s
Musings
1
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Contents
Mannkal's Mission
Ron’s Report 3
We are a private, not-for-profit
Andrew’s Angle 5
organisation. We promote free enterprise,
Mannkal’s Special Opportunities 6
limited government and individual
intiative for the benefit of all Australians.
Alumni: Where Are They Now? 7-8
Our flagship activity is our Leadership
Advisory Council, Ambassadors & Donors 9
Development Program, which provides
Scholars’ Articles 11-17 scholarships for Western Australian
university students to attend conferences
Your Application: The Inside Scoop 18
and volunteer at think tanks, both
Host Think Tanks 19 domestically and internationally.
Events: The Year in Review 20-25
Essay Competition Review 26 Who is Ron Manners?
Events: The Year Ahead 27 Ron Manners is the Managing Director of the
Mannwest Group, the Emeritus Chairman of
Mannkal Scholarship Timeline 28
the Australian Mining Hall of Fame Ltd, and is
a member of the Advisory Council for the Atlas
Network, Washington, DC.
Ron was born in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.
As a fourth-generation prospector, he studied
electrical engineering at the Kalgoorlie School
of Mines before he assumed management
of the family mining/engineering business,
W.G. Manners & Co. (originally established in
1895) in 1955. He expanded and diversified the
company which has evolved to become the
Mannwest Group.
Between 1972 and 1995 Ron floated several
Australian listed mining companies before
joining the board of a Canadian company
with operations in Mexico, Brazil and Turkey.
In addition to his mining interests, Ron has
pursued an interest in economic education,
establishing the Mannkal Economic Education
Foundation in 1997. Ron is also the author and
editor of numerous books and articles.
Mannkal Volunteers and Staff
Trustee Board Members Executive Director Media & Communications
Andrew Pickford Coordinator
Ron Manners
Eva Christensen
Lyndon Rowe Executive Assistant
Judy Carroll Web and IT Consultant
Jenny Manners
Matthew Lock
Bill Stacey Scholarships Manager
Kate Wagstaff Research Assistant
Andrew Pickford
Bayley Novakovic
David Stevens Scholarships Coordinator
Sharni Cutajar
Neil Fearis
2
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
RON’S REPORT
John Hyde retires from the
Mannkal board...
W
listen.
hen John Hyde speaks, we should
I have learned that lesson over my many
years of friendship with John.
On two occasions, when I was living in
Kalgoorlie, John phoned with brief suggestions
that I visit Perth to meet a significant person.
He simply said, “Manners, you should be
in Perth next week, as there is someone here
who I would like you to meet.”
He never mentioned who, but I responded
positively on both occasions and it gave me
the opportunity to have lunch with two very
significant individuals.
On one occasion this was the noted British
historian and author, Paul Johnson.
On the other occasion it was Lord Peter
Bauer with whom, a year later, I spent several
weeks in Moscow and St. Petersburg. We
were joint participants in Russia’s Transition to John set a standard by which politicians should
Freedom Seminar, organised in 1990 by the Cato be measured.
Institute. In the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, John, with a
During John’s nine years in Federal politics he small band (approx. 10 in number) called the
was an intellectual giant amongst pygmies and ‘Dries’, became alarmed at the way government
one of the few who recognised policies almost always resulted
Australia’s dangerous drift toward in impoverishing further the
diminishing freedoms.
I recall the late Justice George “When John Australian public. They set about
to devise ways of reversing that
Sutherland once saying… trend.
“For the saddest epitaph which
can be carved in memory of a
Hyde speaks, They orchestrated a range
of policies to revitalise Australia
vanished freedom is that it was lost
because its possessors failed to
we should but were astonished at how their
own party, the Liberal Party,
stretch forth a saving hand, while
there was still time.” listen.” treated these ideas. The ideas
were treated the same way that
What an appropriate theme to the human body treats strange
connect with John Hyde. Those who know John proteins; it rejected them.
appreciate how he has devoted many years of This agenda was ready-made and awaiting the
his life to doing just that, “stretching forth a saving Australian Labor Party (ALP) when they were swept
hand while there was still time.” to power in 1983. The ALP claimed these policies
If you want to discover the real character of a as a momentary alternative to their full-frontal
man, just ignore what he says about himself and socialism.
look instead at his dealings with other people. The details are well documented in John’s book
The same is true of governments; ignore “DRY: In Defence of Economic Freedom.”
what their extensive and expensive propaganda American author Lew Rockwell wrote a similar
departments say about themselves, and judge book from the U.S. point of view – “Speaking of
them instead on how they deal with their own Liberty” – and in describing his book, he also
people. Do they steal from some and give it to accurately describes John’s book:
others? Do they indulge in such acts that would be “What possible difference can another
illegal for individuals? book make? Why should anyone care about
3
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
the message of one book as compared with In short, because of John Hyde, I enjoyed a
its many millions of competitors? It comes ‘golden age’ in Australia’s economic prosperity.
down to this. I would like to see future generations of
Though there is an astounding proliferation Australians enjoy these same opportunities.
of words in our time, there is a drastic shortage That simple goal is one of my main motivators.
of something that is essential to the survival Now, as John leaves our Mannkal Board, after
of civilization: defences of property against being there from the first day, 21 years ago, he
its ubiquitous enemies and its main enemy, leaves us with three important gifts:
the State. Core principles contain within them • His friendship;
the power to slice through billions of other • His residual wisdom;
words based on trivia and fallacy. Though we • His book DRY: In Defence of Economic
are out-numbered and out-gunned on every Freedom as an inspiration of how good policy can
front, we believe in the power of ideas to make revive a stagnant economy.
a difference. This is why we libertarians write.” Our challenge at Mannkal is to take on the task
John Hyde has made a difference, by bringing of developing fresh, courageous young minds
ideas to the threshold of people’s consciousness, who will take up the challenge of reinvigorating
with his book, with his 550 newspaper articles, but, our nation and guiding its path to as yet untapped
more importantly, with his consistency in putting potential.
principle before politics. We wish John and Helen many more years of
I am personally aware of the very real outcomes happiness together and assure them that their
of John’s reformist zeal. The outcomes arrived, in spirit of reforms will become contagious in future
the midst of my business career. generations of young Western Australians.
Coming out of decades of economic stagnation,
suddenly, to use the sailing ship analogy, Australia’s
sails were filled with wind and we accelerated at
full speed.
I was a beneficiary of these great years, so am
personally grateful to John, and equally sad to see Ron Manners
Australia, again, stuck in the doldrums! Chairman
MANNKAL WELCOMES LYNDON ROWE TO ITS BOARD
Lyndon is a professional company director with
governance and executive experience in a range
of industries including energy, airports, economic
regulation and de-regulation, superannuation
funds, education and employer organisations.
Lyndon’s career has involved either overseeing
the merger of existing organisations or the
creation of new organisations. Examples of
this include as full-time Chairman of the newly
created Electricity Generation and Retail
Corporation T/A Synergy; as the inaugural
Executive Chairman of Western Australia’s new
Economic Regulation Authority; as an inaugural
director overseeing the establishment of the
superannuation fund Westscheme (now merged
with AustralianSuper) and as the inaugural CEO
of the, then new, Chamber of Commerce and
Industry of Western Australia (CCI).
May 8th, 2018
4
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
ANDREW’S
ANGLE
to the local level. Neither will there be an explanation
that a spike in prices is not a market failure, but instead
is a signal to both producers and consumers. Very few
politicians will talk about the benefit of risk and risk-
taking, even if there are negative consequences.
The implications for a desire for stability in
markets, government provision of goods and services,
and cartel-like arrangements in key sectors of the
economy should be clear. It results in lower economic
growth, higher prices than in a more competitive
economy and a larger tax burden for present and
future generations.
Those favouring liberty need to find better
ways to communicate the trade-offs from spending
taxpayer money on NBN and NDIS. No one is against
faster internet or helping people who are disabled.
However, if you expect the government to do this
effectively or efficiently, at best you are naive and
idealist. At worst you favour bureaucrats making
decisions that should be left to individuals and
corporations. Venezuela is an example where the
P
state dominates decision making and the economy.
While those favouring economic freedom
roponents of liberty in Australia will find made great strides in the 1980s and 1990s, the high-
2019 challenging. water mark has passed. We are now in retreat and
A resurgent and increasingly leftist Australian there has been a return of big government and utopian
Labour Party will likely run a federal electoral schemes. Marxist language has been replaced by
campaign where large government projects are calls to be green and sustainable. These advocates,
framed as the best possible solutions to apparent referred to as ‘watermelons’ by their opponents,
problems. Debates over the suitability of government now dominate the cultural institutions and are active
involvement will give way to politically through groups such as
arguments over the level of support
or so-called taxpayer “investment”.
“By understanding GetUp! and trade unions.
What is to be done? Emulating
Problems with the National how individuals the tactics and approach is not
Broadband Network (NBN) and
the hidden liability for taxpayers
and groups the answer. Mannkal believes that
young, budding Western Australia
should be ample evidence of what have restrained leaders will find new methods and
can happen when government is
involved in delivering goods and government in other liberal and libertarian ideas while
strategies from drawing on classical
services. Older readers note the countries, they will be interning in free market think-tanks
common thread between mandated
slow NBN speeds and the dismal able to apply these across the world. By understanding
how individuals and groups have
Telecom fixed line telephony
service.
insights to Australia.” restrained government in other
countries, they will be able to
Beyond the NBN, even well-meaning schemes apply these insights to Australia. While 2019 may be
such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme challenging for those favouring liberty, there will be
(NDIS) threaten to consume ever larger parts of the a growing voice of young leaders who are fighting
federal budget. Not only does this centralisation of against big government.
services undermine traditional forms of community
and faith-based support groups, but it also causes
inefficiencies and creates a culture of dependency on
government to address personal problems.
What will our political parties promise to the
electorate to win votes this time? It certainly won’t be Andrew Pickford
a call for resilience and or devolving decision-making Executive Director
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Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Mannkal’s Special Opportunities
Australia’s Busiest Person Donates Her Most Precious
Asset - Time - To Mannkal Scholars
Standing, from left: Sharni Cutajar, Ben McDonald, James Walker, Eva Christensen, Gina Rinehart, Ron Manners, Mason Tufilli, Tej Patel, Nick
Marsh, John McMahon, Connor Lane. Seated, from left: Herman Toh, Llew Cross, Elizabeth Powley, Emma Watson, Olivia Maso.
These fortunate Mannkal Scholars enjoyed the opportunity of spending a full afternoon
with Mrs Gina Rinehart as she shared her experiences covering her wide spread of interests.
Mining, cattle, agriculture, exports, private vs public companies, regulatory impediments to
the nation’s future and philanthropy were among the topics of the wide-ranging discussions.
The Mannkal Scholars’ one-on-one discussions with Mrs Rinehart were of immense help
with their future career choices. It was a remarkable afternoon and an incredible opportunity
to share the thoughts of one of Australia’s most extraordinary and inspirational business
leaders.
***
Apply Now!
Applications are now open for 2019 Mid-Year opportunities.
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to Scholarships Manager, Kate
Wagstaff at scholars@mannkal.org. Our multi-step application process involves getting
to know you through interviews, essays and reports, seminars and other events.
Don’t delay - get in touch with us today!
For more information and instructions on how to apply, visit www.mannkal.org
6
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Our Alumni: Where Are They Now?
Hannah Pham [2016] progression, Sally retains a keen interest in free
market economics and that interest is something
Hannah was awarded a she will always foster, along with her involvement
Mannkal Scholarship to intern with Mannkal.
with the Institute of Economic
Affairs in London at the end of
2016. She subsequently went
on to complete her Economics
Honours at the University of
Western Australia, where she was also an research
assistant, focusing on development economics in
the labour market.
Since graduating in late 2017, Hannah has
been working as an administrative assistant at The
Wealth Designers, a boutique financial advisory
company in Perth.
Sally campaining - “I love low taxes”
Connor Lane [2016]
Connor is a graduate
of the Curtin University of
Technology, where he has
completed a Bachelor of
Commerece, with a major
in Finance and minor in
Economics.
Connor travelled to
London to intern at CapX on a
Mannkal Scholarship. CapX is a libertarian online
Hannah during her IEA internship
news portal, housed within the Centre for Policy
Studies.
Sally Hatter [2016] After completing his internship, Connor was
Since completing her fortunate to meet Mrs Gina Rinehart at a special
Mannkal scholarship at the Tax Mannkal gathering. As a result, Connor secured a
Payers’ Union in Wellington, New role in the Commercial Contracts team at Roy Hill,
Zealand, Sally was also awarded a where he has been employed since May 2018.
Mannkal scholarship to complete
an Economics research project at
the University of Notre Dame..
Whilst completing this project alongside her
law degree she has worked part time for the
Terrace Initative, a management consulting firm.
Sally has found passion for change management
consulting and is excited to commence full time
work when she graduates.
Sally has had the opportunity to work on many
different projects and has been exposed to large
scale mining and rail projects in Western Australia.
A particularly interesting project that Sally has
worked on is the implementation of driverless
trains at RioTinto. Whilst focussing on her career With the Iron Lady at CPS
7
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Our Alumni: Where Are They Now?
Tej Patel [2017] James Walker [2017]
Tej Patel is a former Mannkal Since his internship at the
Scholar from Curtin University. Centre for Policy Studies in
In May 2017, Tej was selected London, James has completed
to attend the prestigious Mont a 10-week internship in Westpac
Pelerin Society Conference Institutional Bank’s leveraged
in Seoul, along with six finance team. After this internship
other Mannkal Scholars. Tej James completed an advanced
subsequently travelled to Atlanta, Georgia to certificate in valuation at New York University’s
intern with FEE. Throughout his internship, Tej Stern School of Business, a course tutored by
assisted with FEE’s online content and strategic legendary finance academic Aswath Damodaran.
marketing.
Tej graduated just before embarking on his
Mannkal journey and he returned to Perth to
commence his career in investment banking. Tej
is now an analyst at both BlueMount Capital and
Ocean Reach Advisory.
First day at the Centre for Policy Studies
James has also begun working part time at
Australian Venture Consultants, a management
consulting firm working with ASX 100, government
and multinational clients. In September of 2018,
James travelled to the Canary Islands to attend
Out for lunch with FEE President, Lawrence E. Reed the Mont Pelerin Society General Meeting, thanks
to the kind nomination of Ron Manners. He joined
four other Mannkal Scholars to spend the week
Elizabeth Powley [2016] immersing themselves into the world of free
During the 2016/17 intake, market economics.
Liz interned at the Institute for
Democracy and Economic
Affairs (IDEAS) in Kuala
Lumpur. Upon her return, she
was fortunate enough to be
an Economics Intern at the
Chamber of Commerce and
Industry WA; and says one of the highlights of
her time at CCIWA was publishing the quarterly
“Consumer Confidence Survey”.
At the end of 2017, Liz graduated from the
University of Western Australia, with a Bachelor
of Commerce majoring in Economics and Law
& Society. Since then, Liz has been working as
a Procurement Administrator at Rio Tinto, with
tasks ranging from drafting contract variations to
analysing trends in the labour market. At Petronas Towers
8
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Advisory Council
Sarah Basden Riyad Hammad Luke McGrath Hannah Berdal
(London) (Dubai) (USA) (London)
Felicity Karageorge Jessica Pendal Naomi Brockwell Emma Dyce
(Sydney) (Perth) (USA) (Perth)
Steven Schwartz Mac Nichols Yuliya Tychkivska Brad Walmsley
(Sydney) (Perth) (Ukraine) (Geneva)
Sofie O’Mara Emma Crisp Benjamin Marks Ashley Klingenberg
(USA) (Sydney) (Sydney) (Canberra)
Ambassadors
Mannkal thanks and acknowledges its Ambassadors, who each contribute to our running costs.
We couldn’t do what we do without them.
Mr Rafe Champion Ms Juel Briggs Mrs Sally Jones Mr Dick Lester
Mr Bill Stacey Mr Ross Cable Mr Geoff McNeil Mr Russell Lester
Mr Gavin Bunning Mr Jock Clough Mr Toby Nichols
Mr Bill Hassell
Mr David Reed Dr Ross Fardon Mr Maurice Rousset
Mr Bob Berven Mr Dinny Grimwood Mr Peter Sansom Mr Jim Keough
Mr Colin Agnew Mr Doug Hall Prof George Kailis Mr Jack Williamson
Donors
Mannkal thanks its Donors who contribute vital funds to sponsor student opportunities.
Mrs Gina Rinehart Mr Willy Packer Mr Peter Iancov Mr Ron Manners
9
Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
London Scholars Camille Cross and Cian Hussey in
Westminster (July 2018)
Madrid Scholar, Emma Watson, out for dinner with her Talisien Nexus Scholar, Joshua Morgan, with former
colleagues at the Fundacion el para al avanche de la Libertad in presidential candidate, Gary Johnson and Mannkal alumnus
Madrid (July 2018) Phil Hancock at FreedomFest in Las Vegas (July 2018)
SCHOLARSHIPS
Hong Kong Scholar, Michaela Gartz (right), with fellow
students of the Asia Institute for Polictical Economy
10 London Scholar, Cian Hussey, crossing Abbey Road US Scholar, Gianni Rifici, on his first day at the Foundation for
(July 2018) Economic Education (FEE), in Atlanta, Georgia (June 2018)Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Mannkal Scholars Abroad
Mannkal internships at our partner host think tanks run twice a year: in the mid-year and end-of-
year university breaks. Our Scholars write weekly blogs which you can read on our website and
by the end of their internships they also write a professional report detailing their experiences
- you can read them all on the following pages!
Centre for Policy Studies – London
Cian Hussey - BArts, Politics and International Relations (Notre Dame)
mostly on policy research, with a capable member of staff able to
a particular focus on welfare comprehend complex policies and
programs and the tax burden discuss their implications. While
on small and medium-sized this was, at times, a daunting task,
businesses. This proved to be the research team were there to
extremely rewarding work; I was guide and support me in my role.
required to undertake thorough Over the course of my
and unbiased research into past internship, I further developed
and current government policies my ability to think critically about
and proposals to determine their arguments and discussions,
intentions and outcomes. My quickly noticing the contradictions
tasks were not only to research and inconsistencies to be found
the facts and present them for in many government policies and
someone else to interpret, I was their justifications. My experience
This year, I was lucky enough also given the opportunity to at the CPS allowed me to develop
to be given the opportunity to express the merits and drawbacks a greater sense of independence
live and work in London for seven of particular policies and present as I researched various topics and
weeks as a Mannkal Scholar. a case for why they may not have sifted through analyses and cases
Working at the Centre for Policy worked as intended. both for and against different
Studies – a think tank established This is one of the benefits interpretations.
by Margaret Thatcher and Sir Keith of the scholarship I was offered One highlight of my trip was
Joseph in 1974 – was an incredibly through Mannkal; I didn’t spend the fast-paced and inspiring
rewarding experience where I was my days making coffees and environment of Westminster. I
able to work alongside a high- running errands, I was treated as often walked past the Palace of
calibre research team to explore
policy settings around the
world, with a focus on the
United Kingdom. While my
working days were mainly filled
with research, my evenings
and weekends were used to
explore London and other
places in England, along with
a weekend getaway to France.
After spending a year and
a half studying politics and the
various ideologies, aims, and
challenges that come with
the political process, Mannkal
offered me the opportunity to
put this learning into action.
My time at the Centre for
Policy Studies was spent First day at the office
11Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Westminster, where the British day, there was plenty to keep me
parliament sits, on my way to up and out of an evening. I spent It is not only an insight that I’ve
and from work, and many a lunch weeknights going to the theatre, come home with, however. The
hour were spent sitting in Victoria listening to bands in jazz clubs and think tanks which Mannkal sends
Tower Gardens in the shadows hanging out with fellow interns at Scholars to provide more than this.
of the Palace. Being so close to local pubs and markets. The CPS aims to combine both
the political epicentre of England This is what made the theory and practice to develop
provided a wonderful environment internship experience so fulfilling policies which are influential
to work in, especially considering for me. To be given the opportunity in government, along with
the number of MPs who contribute to spend a number of weeks communicating these policies to
to CPS reports and the impact that not only working on meaningful the body politic in an effective,
many reports have had on shaping policy, but also exploring one engaging way.
current government debate and of the most exciting cities in the Interning at the CPS has
policy. world. The Mannkal program allowed me to develop the skills
Exploring the different parts of offers a truly unique and rewarding I need to also be an effective
London and the wider country are internship experience, partnering communicator. If I were to
some of my favoured memories. with think tanks the world over to summarise the skills, they would
My trips to Liverpool, Lincoln, give Western Australian students be thorough research, effective
Paris, and Fontainebleau were an insight into policy and its real- reporting, and engaging outreach.
wonderful; I was able to catch up world implications, allowing us I believe that these skills will
with family and get out of bustling to return home to actively work greatly assist me in my studies
London for a time. Not that London towards the promotion of liberty and career, and it is the work of
is lacking in things to do! While with a sound understanding of the Mannkal team and their fruitful
the work kept me busy during the what that entails. program I have to thank for this.
The Institute of Economic Affairs – London
Nick Todd - Juris Doctor (UWA)
demonstrably appropriate venue academics that have researched
for me to hone in on the ideas of at the IEA and now have a plaque
liberty during what is a crucial on the wall. To know that you will
time for libertarianism. Walking be researching within the same
past the Palace of Westminster think tank as people like Milton
on my way to work was a Friedman and Friedrich Hayek
formidable reminder of how is awe inspiring. It is even more
important Western Civilization special to be introduced to other
and individual liberty has been to notable people in the current free
the flourishing of society. It was market thought sphere. One of the
in these moments that I realised highlights of my trip in fact was
the gravity and opportunity of my meeting Nobel Laureate Vernon
Mannkal scholarship. The ability Smith just before he made a
to be in London and immerse speech at an IEA Luncheon. The
“You find no man, at all myself in the multitude of ideas significance of researchers, past
intellectual, who is willing to that swirled around the city was and present at the IEA creates
leave London. No, Sir, when an opportunity that honestly could such a rare work environment, one
a man is tired of London, not be grasped anywhere else in that is truly only accessible for a
he is tired of life; for there is the world. Perth university student through
in London all that life can The magic of London certainly the generosity of Ron Manners.
afford.” did not stop as I walked through the Having to live up to the
– Samuel Johnson doors of the Institute for Economic grandeur of the IEA’s significant
As I boarded my departing Affairs each morning. The iconic history is no problem for the
flight on a beautiful Saturday golden letterbox bearing the think current staff that are working
afternoon in London I could think tank’s name in bold black letters and researching there. Despite
of no truer words to be spoken caught my eye each day. After coming from almost literally the
about the city where I had just entering the building, you almost other side of the world I instantly
spent the last 5 weeks. It is full immediately notice a myriad of felt at home and at ease with the
of spirit, of humanity, history past outstanding thinkers and lovely people around the office.
and culture. It was therefore a
12Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
hope to remain in contact with
over the years to come.
A Mannkal scholarship
provides you with the unique
opportunity to work and think
about economic ideas at think
takes on almost any continent
in the world. Even when you’re
not at work, there are always
new and exiting experiences
to be involved in. I took every
opportunity I could in my
spare time to explore London.
In many of these instances
the friends I had made at
work helped unlocked these
experiences for me. For
Visiting the University College of London example, I found myself being
given an exclusive tour of the
This really goes from the top right some from India, others from the Palace of Westminster as
through the organisation. The European mainland, from America well as being able to enjoy a cold
senior researcher who helped and the UK. This in itself made the beer on the Palace’s delightful
me with my report was a quick internship experience even more terrace overlooking the Thames.
witted and interesting fellow who valuable as I could constantly A Mannkal scholarship really is a
was incredibly easy to talk to. The and quite casually engage in once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,
person in charge of managing the sometimes heated debates it is unique and immeasurably
interns was also great, often finding over libertarian ideas which has valuable, the scholarship truly is a
the perfect balance between expanded my thinking. At the end well-rounded opportunity for self-
having a laugh and getting things of the day have expanded my improvement.
done. The interns themselves network by making more friends,
were excellent to be around. They both professional and otherwise,
came from all corners of the earth, in my time at the IEA. Friends that I
Foundation for Economic Education - Atlanta
Gianni Rifici - BComm, Finance and Economics (UWA)
the pledge of allegiance. There is of FEE, took the other interns and
also a feeling of free enterprise I for a trip down to Newnan after
and development in Atlanta the fourth of July. He showed us
that is not felt as much in Perth. the town courthouse and told
For example, there are dozens us about the history of the Civil
of urban ride-share services War in Newnan. Newnan was a
including electric scooters and hospital town during the war which
bikes that are not prevalent at helped confederate and union
home. soldiers alike. This is one of the
The United States reasons why Newnan was spared
demonstration of national pride destruction, even though Atlanta
was epitomised for me on the and other surrounding towns were
fourth of July. I celebrated destroyed after the war.
The cultural differences Independence Day with the other The following week I attended
between The United States and interns on the Chattahoochee the FreedomFest conference in
Australia were visible quite quickly river. The river water is fed from Las Vegas. The conference had
after I arrived in Atlanta. I met the Blue Ridge mountains. The influential speakers like Charlie
people with concealed weapons water is really cold but it was a Kirk and Larry Elder. Topics of
permits and I saw fireworks for sales refreshing relief from the Georgian discussion at the conference
in shops. I found paper pamphlets Summer heat. ranged from identity politics, the
of the constitution and posters of Lawrence Reed, the president 2020 election, and even diet and
13Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
education. Lawrence Reed’s Real Heroes. Oklahoma, Alabama, and Ohio. I
In the next week Larry invited This week I also had the feel like some of the conversations
Tyler, Jorge and I for a trip down opportunity to visit Moss Pawn about their respective states and
to Ellijay. It was great timing as I and Gun store, which is the home histories taught me as much as my
had spent the last month in either of the Iraq Veteran 8888 YouTube academic experiences in the office
Atlanta or Las Vegas. Both are big channel. I went and met some of did. I learned about how different
cities with congested traffic and the cast of the channel and they states interact, and the particular
lots of people. Ellijay is a peaceful let me take a picture with some state systems of government. I
country town though. We went interesting firearms. We discussed learned about this because some
and visited the Amicalola falls and the importance of the second of the other interns have worked
climbed all the way to the top, amendment and the relevant on political campaigns in their
where we found an amazing view contemporary challenges facing states.
of the North Georgia mountains. the United States Constitution. I believe that the relationships
The next weekend Tyler and These experiences have I have formed with some of the
I worked at a home-schooling taught me a lot but the most other libertarians in the office are
conference representing FEE. influential element of my what have been the most valuable
We gave information to parents internship has been the people I part of this experience. Building
about FEE’s online courses and have met. I met Jorge Jraissati, a those networks and incorporating
our publishing partners. We also Venezuelan political activist. The that personal element has made
gave away prizes to the kids and other interns were interesting to me excited to see what they and I
distributed libertarian literature— meet too because we could all will achieve in the future.
particularly copies of Leonard talk about home—some came
Read’s famous essay, I, Pencil, and from Spain, others interstate from
Taliesin Nexus - Los Angeles
Joshua Morgan - Postgrad Diploma in Web Comm. (Murdoch)
Indie movie screening, attended surreal, fantastic moments that
a wild political protest, witnessed change our course. And I think we
a wheelchair theft and pitched take our stories and look at great
a surreal crime story to the guy movies, art, music and novels
who wrote Liar Liar, who in turn from that perspective.
roasted me for my description of When I look at my journey
the story as “surreal”. toward becoming a Mannkal
Through my experiences, Scholar it both makes sense to
I have gained perspective on me and it does not. When I was
the realities of the film business in my bedroom, just a university
and the clash between art and student editing little libertarian
product, the toxicity of partisan idea-based videos and getting
politics, the
There has been no greater necessity
crossroad in my 22 years than for diversity
becoming a Mannkal Scholar, in thought of
flying to America and interning at opinion across
a Hollywood production company. all fields and
It has been a unique and life- what it truly
altering experience to intern at means to find a
libertarian production company great story.
Taliesin Nexus and be in the Ever ything
thriving iconic city of Los Angeles. in life can be
In my time here, I have surfed looked at as
Malibu beach, shot at a gun a great story.
range, spent a week in Vegas Our lives will
at the Libertarian conference have peaks and
FreedomFest, co-organised an valleys, great
changes and Checking out the local street art in LA
14Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
my friends to voice and co-write look. I hardly think it should matter film-viewing, I have come to have
them, to barely any views, I could what your political persuasion a better grasp on what it means to
never have known what would is; what should matter is that we tell the story of liberty, and how
lead from this interest in ideas of foster a fully open discourse, storytelling is crafted and the
liberty. Looking back also, I can maintain diversity of thought and immense value it brings. Ideas
see how this hunger for ideas that to challenge rather than silencing are so powerful, but sometimes
dissented from the establishment ideas we disagree with. people turn their ears off and refuse
thought that dominates education, One of the other biggest to listen, they are blinded by their
media and the court of public detriments to this politically- own side and the perceptions of
discourse – did, in fact, lead me fuelled American culture is the fall politics as being good versus bad.
to the Mannkal seminars: where of comedy! You cannot watch a Great stories are like capturing
engaging ideas and those who late-night comedy show without ideas and presenting them in a
care to explore them unite. And a serious, drab analysis of “what unique, awe-inspiring way. I do
what a great union this has turned Trump did today”. It is a sad decline not know where the line between
out to be. from Carson to Colbert after all the art and product it - maybe it is all
We hear a lot about U.S politics, great 1970s talk show hosts where subjective.
but I feel you have to be there to the likes of Johnny Carson and This journey has been an
truly understand the viciousness Dick Cavett created fascinating absolute thrill, and I have Mannkal
of partisan left or right politics. discussions and fun, hour-long to thank for this experience. I am
People truly view things as good escapes from the day-to-day not sure where the road will lead
vs evil, and very few can take a grind. Our modern talk show hosts from here, but storytelling abroad
middle ground position – even merely share the same left-wing in America was a fantastic way to
my admittance of not being left politics and the same Trump jokes. start.
or right but being libertarian got Anyhow, at the Taliesin Nexus
me the occasional eye-roll or odd office through script-reading and
Adam Smith Institute - London
Camille Cross - BComm, Human Resource Management (Notre Dame)
but manage to cover many to ensure their safety and security
areas of politics and lifestyle in the villa. In traditional political
economics tax reform and much theory, this applies to countries.
more. I was able to learn and States increase their security
write about all different areas, my by increasing military power. In
favourites bring, the economics this situation, both countries are
of Love Island (a reality TV show), unsure if the other is increasing
plastic straws and paid organ their security. To combat this
and blood donations. potential threat, they increase their
When researching my first own. This then heightens tensions
article, the economics of Love between the nations even though
Island, I was introduced to a neither country particularly
concept I had not heard of, the wanted it.
I had the experience of a Security Dilemma. This is shown I had not given much thought
lifetime working at the Adam on Love Island when the boys into plastic straws, but after the
Smith Institute (ASI), living in were forced to move to another plastic bag ban in Australia, it
London and travelling around the villa, Casa Amor, filled with six new will surely become next step as
English countryside. I have been girls. While the original boys were shown by the UK which banned
able to gain experience writing, away, another six new boys were plastic bags in 2012. The majority
editing and organising while also sent to the original villa to tempt of the waste found in the ocean
learning the day to day aspects the remaining females. actually comes from 10 rivers
of the running of a think tank in All islanders face the problem mainly in Asia but also in Africa
Westminster. that their partner might recouple which have millions of people
The ASI is a great office to go and leave them single before they living among them. Knowing that
to in London for a comprehensive are reunited. Individuals end up Australian and British plastic bags
view on Libertarianism and free recoupling with new partners even and straws don’t make it into
markets. They are a smaller office if neither of them actually desired it the ocean made me realise that
15Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
we are actually hurting the
environment further through
the production and emissions
released through the creation
of these products. On another
note, more than half of the
plastic that is found in the
ocean isn’t actually household
waste or single-use plastics
from individuals. More than half
of the debris found is actually
commercial waste including
fishing nets, ropes, lines.
Another area that sparked
my interest while in London
was the idea of commodifying
blood and organ donations.
This all started when I looked Outside the ASI office
into nudging where England
wants to follow suit with Wales interns in London as well as some architecture and parks.
and introduce an opt-out system. friends from back home who I decided to spend my last
When I think of blood donations I happened to be there. We had weekend visiting the one and
think of the advertisement saying some great times with all three only Windsor Castle where Prince
1 in 3 Australians will need blood of us heading to the THINK!, the Harry and Megan Markle recently
at some point in their life but only conference run by the IEA and a got married. This was a great
1 in 30 Australian donate. This trip to the famous Portobello Road experience to stand exactly where
statistic is quite scary when you markets. As time was running out they stood and also compare it
consider that at least one person at the end, I managed to spend a to Buckingham Palace and other
in every family will need blood at day in Bath which has a fascinating royal landmarks and buildings.
one point. Australia and Brazil and history from the Roman empire to This opportunity has helped
some of the counties that have when it was a Georgian metropolis me in so many ways and opened
an outright ban on paid blood, that rivalled London. Looking lots of different doors. I cannot
plasma and organ donations. back at Bath from the hillside thank Mannkal and the ASI
I had great fun on the you can actually see the periods enough.
weekends with my fellow Mannkal of economic downturn in the
Fundación para al Avance de la Libertad - Madrid
Emma Watson - Bachelor of Law and Commerce (Notre Dame)
economic class; we are the explore libertarian ideas, form
spokesman for all classes, networks, attend a conference,
for all the public; we strive to gain experience working in
see all of these groups united, another country, immerse myself
hand in hand, in opposition to in another culture, expand my
the plundering and privileged ideas, and develop myself
minority that constitutes the rules professionally and personally.
of the State.” Fundalib staff welcomed me into
- Murray Rothbard their homes and gave me my own
I was extremely fortunate Spanish libertarian family!
to be the first student to intern No day was the same at
at Fundación para el Avance Fundalib, whether it was discussing
de la Libertad (Fundalib) in libertarian ideas over lunch or
“We libertarians are not the Madrid Spain. My six weeks as dinner, writing papers or exploring
spokesman for any ethnicity or a Mannkal Scholar was perfect the countryside the libertarian
as the internship allowed me to way - it was always exhilarating!
16Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
comfort zone. I talked to lots
of professionals who were
mostly non-native English
speakers and experienced
the importance of non-verbal
cues in communication. Since
returning to Western Australia
I sometimes catch myself
gesticulating strongly as I make
some point in a discussion!
My internship at
Fundalib allowed me to grow
intellectually and personally.
For the first time I had the
opportunity to work as an
author. I co-wrote the World
Index of Moral Freedom 2018
published by Freedom Press
Overlooking the capital of Spain and wrote a paper on Western
Australian secession, which is
Fundalib allowed me to see was able to experience other parts
being published later. I certainly
that libertarian ideas can make of Spain including Toledo, Castile-
developed my thought on different
significant change in countries La-Mancha, El Escorial, Segovia,
aspects of libertarianism and built
around the world that are fighting San Ildefonso, Ayllon, Maderuelo,
my confidence in expressing my
for freedom. I experienced real Riaza, Salamanca, Avila and
views in this area.
advocacy, developed my ideas, Aranjuez. Viewing these places
I would not have been able
engaged in rallies, and discussed from a libertarian perspective
to undertake the internship at
thoughts with prominent enabled me to look beyond the
Fundalib without the generosity
libertarians who have lived in tourist surface and see the role
of Ron Manners and the support
different countries and have seen that people and events from the
and patience of the Mannkal
how important these ideas are to near and distant past are playing
team. Being a Mannkal Scholar
human flourishing. in today’s Spain.
has enabled me to develop my
Fundalib allowed me to mature Being a Mannkal Scholar has
thinking and my professional style.
as a writer, fostering my ideas and enabled me to meet so many
I have been able to access a range
developing my writing style. My people that have formed by views
of opportunities that have inspired
internship challenged my ideas as a libertarian and allowed me to
me and challenged me and
both intellectually and morally. I grow as an individual. I had many
helped me achieve some of my
was exposed to a different way immersive experiences where I
desires for my future. I am forever
of thinking, a different culture and met and networked with a range of
grateful to Ron and the team for
a different political atmosphere. libertarians from Spain and across
the time and energy they have
This experience allowed me to Europe and forged connections
given me.
become independent from the that would not have been possible
After my internship experience
constraints of university opinions without this internship. I vastly
with Mannkal I am able to take on
and enabled me to tackle new improved my communication
anything!
thinkings, cultures and lifestyles. and interpersonal skills and
As well as exploring Madrid I was compelled to get out of my
Visit www.mannkal.org/internship-blog to read the Scholars’ weekly blogs!
**
Applications are now open for our 2019 Mid-Year Internships.
17Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
SUCCESSFUL
SCHOLARSHIP
APPLICATIONS
- the inside scoop
Mannkal’s Scholarship
manager, Kate
Wagstaff, on how
to succesfully apply
for conference
and internship
scholarships.
“H ow can I improve my
chances of receiving a scholarship?” may
These skills
appear
As Scholarships Manager at obvious and
Mannkal, I hear this question all the generic. In fact of professions in Perth, around
time. The bad news? There is no they are essential and, surprisingly Australia and all over the world.
easy answer. The good news is that often, absent during the initial Industries include economics,
the skills and attributes necessary application stages. Happily, these investment banking, government,
for a scholarship are also exactly basic attributes are easily learned, business, policy, finance, law,
those most keenly sought after in and will help students succeed consulting and media.
“the real world” by employers. The in any context; effectively leading To see our students grow
even better news is that, through the a group assignment, proceeding and flourish, to see them placed
Mannkal Leadership Development through a job application process, in amazing jobs with highly
Program, students can develop all earning the respect of colleagues, competitive companies, to see
these skills that will set them up a stage full of proud, smiling
for real life success. Mannkal faces, to have parents
When I am asked this
“Understanding how hug me and tell me that their
children have transformed into
question, my answer is always, to think critically and adults – this is the true reward for
annoyingly, “What do you think
you can do?” Clearly this is not independently, and the Mannkal team, and we know
that we are well on our way to
what students hope to hear.
However, understanding how to developing an awareness achieving our goals of developing
think critically and independently, of one’s own shortcomings Australia’s future leaders.
and developing an awareness of
one’s own shortcomings - as well - as well as assets - are
as assets - are crucial qualities for
success in professional and social crucial qualities for Our graduate
environments.
To offset my irritating answer, success in professional placements include:
there are a few key pointers that
savvy scholarship applicants and Australia:
The Wealth Designers
should note: social environments.” The Terrace Initiative
City of Vincent
- Use your best manners, always. Chamber of Commerce & Industry
People notice; impressing managers, achieving ACIL Allen Consulting
- Desire to expand your mind and a promotion, establishing a strong Australia Venture Consultants
The Liberal Democratic Party
question conventional wisdom; professional reputation, launching a WA Super
- Pay attention. Make notes. Follow business… and of course attaining a South32
instructions. Arrive early; Mannkal scholarship! Sansom Capital
Phillip Morris International
- Before you speak or act, consider Students who realise that what Roy Hill
the effect. Aim to create a positive they learn through their Mannkal
impression during every interaction; experience translates to a larger, Global:
Latham & Watkins LLP, London & Dubai
- Never, ever, miss a deadline. Be global context have a substantial Cato Institute, Washington DC
respectful of other people’s time; advantage over their peers. Our Competitive Enterprise Institute, Washington DC
- Learn how to accept criticism successful interns are those who Adam Smith Institute, London
Various investment companies, Hong Kong
graciously and turn it into a positive take these lessons to heart and
experience; work hard to develop themselves. And many more!
- Be your sincere self. People can Mannkal has helped place high-
detect if you are being disingenuous. achieving graduates in a wide range
18Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Where in the World Do You Want to
Learn?
The Mannkal Economic Education Foundation is looking for students to intern at a
range of internationally recognised research foundations and think tanks. All internships
are financially supported through the Mannkal Leadership Development Program and
open to all enthusiastic university students. Opportunities are now open for the 2019
mid-year break.
Some of the opportunities on offer…
19Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
The Mannkal team with Tom Switzer
(March 2018)
Loic Munso and Christian Bien in Jakarta Mannkal Scholars visiting the
for the 2018 Asia Liberty Forum Parliament of Queensland
EVENTS
Prof Werner Soontiens, Andrew Pickford, Ron Manners and Dr Mike
Nahan MLA at our Freedom to Choose Conference at the University of
Notre Dame (June 2018)
Australian Libertarian Society’s Executive Director, Stuart Hatch, with
Mannkal Scholar, Callum Hudson, with the IPA’s Renee Gorman at the
Mannkal Scholarships Manager, Kate Wagstaff at
2019 ALS Friedman Conference, Sydney (May 2018)
the ALS Friedman Conference, Sydney (May 2018)
20Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Freedom to Choose 2018
Mannkal and the University of Notre Dame analyse resource taxes
Now in its 8th year, our annual Freedom to Choose Conference is held in partnership
with the University of Notre Dame, Fremantle. On Friday, 29th June, more than 85 people
convened at the old ‘Fremantle Hotel’ building to hear about Australia’s resource taxation
woes and related government failures. We welcomed more than 65 students from all five
universities in Perth, who got to network with the speakers, academics, politicians and
business leaders. We look forward to our next Freedom to Choose conference, to be held
in October 2019.
Mannkal’s Andrew Pickford opening the day’s procedings Callum Hufdon, Arka Chanda and Matthew Newbound
SPEAKERS
Paul Kelly
“Lessons from the Rudd-Gillard failed
mining tax project”
J.J. Pincus
“If they really are rents, why not tax them
at 100%?”
Henry Ergas
“Rents and democracy”
Hannah Pham and Llew Cross
Lyndon Rowe and Doug Hall David Gilchrist
“Accounting for taxes: public sector
reporting and the accountability
conundrum”
Peter Hartley
“Virtual resource taxes: regulation and
subsidy in the energy industry”
John Gray, Kate Wagstaff and Carl
Patrick Leclezio and Werner Soontiens Schelling
21Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Scholarship Snapshots ‘17-’18
Have a look at some of our most memorable Scholarship opportunities! In the last 12
months, we have sent over 230 students on conferences and internships around the
world.
Held in conjunction with the Institute of Public The Sun Rises in the West II
Affairs (IPA), our Western Civilisation Conference 24 November 2017, Perth
was a day full of riveting presentations and
discussions. The stellar lineup of speakers
included Silicon Valley entrepreneur, John
Chisholm, and Australian academic superstars,
Prof Wolfgang Kasper, Dr Bella D’Abrera, Rev
Peter Kurti and Dr Jennifer Oriel.
With over 120 attendants, including university
and high school students, it was a fantastic
celebration of our Christian-Judeo origins and
why Australia has succeeded where many other
new nations have failed.
This was the second instalment of our Western
Civilisation conference series - stay tuned for the
next event! Prof Wolfgang Kasper, Dr Bella D’Abrera and Rev Peter Kurti
Asia Liberty Forum Atlas Network’s 2018 Asia Liberty Forum in
10 - 11 February 2018, Jakarta Jakarta, Indonesia, was co-hosted by the Center
for Indonesian Policy Studies (CIPS).
More than 200 people from 30 countries
gathered at the Mandarin Oriental to attend the
conference, which featured several thought-
provoking sessions examining the trajectory of
liberty, property rights, and technology in the
Asia region.
Mannkal sponsored four students to attend. The
Scholars also had the opportunity to intern at
CIPS for the week prior to the event, helping out
with the logistics and general organisation of the
Loic Munso, Harvey Diggens, Christian Bien and Sebastiano conference.
Rosati with Atlas Network CEO Brad Lips
Each year, all North American-based Mannkal Ottawa Enrichment Program
Scholars participate in our specially designed 4 - 11 February 2018, Ottawa
‘Ottawa Enrichment Program’ which is led by
Mannkal’s Executive Director, Andrew Pickford.
This year’s participants were Jack Williamson
(Atlas Network), Tej Patel (FEE), Louis Williams
(Alberta Institute), Chris MacCarthy (Ayn Rand
Institute) and Nick Marsh (Canadian Taxpayers’
Federation).
The week-long program included visits to the
Institute of Liberal Studies, the Parliament of
Canada and the Australian Embassy. Discussions
and seminars were held on topics such as
the Classical Liberal Tradition in Canada and
the Program concluded with the Manning
Conference. Tej Patel (FEE intern) and Jack Williamson (Atlas Network
intern) at the Library of Parliament, Ottawa.
22Mannkal Foundation’s Bi-Annual Review Spring 2018
Liberty & Society Student Now in its 22nd year, The Liberty and Society
Student Conference, organised by The Centre for
Conference
Independent Studies (CIS, is an absolute staple
4-6 May 2018, Sydney on the libertarian calendar.
In 2018, the conference was held in Sydney and
was a rare opportunity for free thinking students
to gather for a weekend of discussion, debate
and engaging conversations about topical
and societal issues from a classical liberal and
libertarian viewpoint.
Mannkal is a proud sponsor of this yearly event.
This year, five Mannkal Scholars attended; Cian
Hussey, Carl Schelling, Nicholas May, John Gray
and Josh Adamson.
Josh Adamson and John Gray
The Friedman Conference is the biggest and best 6th ALS Friedman Conference
pro-liberty event in the southern hemisphere! 25- 27 May 2018, Sydney
More than 350 activists gathered at the University
of Technology in Ultimo, Sydney, for a 3-day
bonanza of presentations, debates and social
activities.
2018 saw Mannkal bring over its biggest over
contingent of university students to learn all
about libertarianism and how it can solve the
world’s problems.
Speakers included Jeffery Tucker, Dr Tom Palmer,
Jo Nova, Sinclair Davidson and many more. We
look forward to the next Friedman Conference
with great anticipation! Mannkal Scholars with Jeffrey Tucker
Asia Institute for Political Economy The Asia Institute for Political Economy
7 - 28 July 2018, Hong Kong (AIPE) program is a 3-week intensive course
organised by The Fund for American Studies.
Every year, more than 60 students from all over
the world congregate to Hong Kong to learn
about all aspects of classical liberal thought.
The curriculum is organised by George Mason
University (Virginia, US), one of the absolute top
universities for economics and political economy.
This year was the first time that Mannkal
sponsored students to attend the AIPE program.
Micha Gartz (Curtin), Loic Munso (Murdoch)
and Delaney Bruce (UWA) were all succesful in
their applications and spent three weeks in the
bustling metropolis. Additionally, Micha and Loic
Micha Gartz, Loic Munso and Delaney Bruce with Roger also spent the week prior, interning at the Lion
Ream, President of The Fund for American Studies Rock Institute.
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