"Australians are blonde surfer types" - It's funny how some things becomes stereotypical of a place even though it might not be an accurate reflection. Usually Hollywood goes outdoorsy 'Steve Irwin' stereotype for Australians and surfers for Californians :D
I also think when you say that you put them in an uncomfortable position at the beginning of the glass, you mean to bring them out of their comfort zone. If my assumption is correct then I know from experience that it is a very effective strategy for getting all the neurons fired up in a students brain before the actual lesson begins.
Yes, it forces them into paying attention and choosing their steps. Puts them on edge as they don't know how to react without a social rule for it.
I was a STEM trainer for a while. This strategy works with adults almost every single time. With kids not so much, at least during the beginning of a session. They just get agitated and distracted. Although on college 'kids' it works like a charm.