Berwick representative

Robert Saunders

Portfolio

The Berwick Campus Representative represents and is elected by all postgraduates enrolled at Berwick. He is subject to the direction of the MPAEC and is the official representative of the MPA in dealing with the Berwick Campus and shall report to the MPAEC on any such dealings.

The Berwick campus represenative is responsible for:

• chairing all MPAEC Berwick-based meetings or committees

• liaising with other office bearers regarding Berwick-based issues

• initiating Berwick-based activities and events

• developing and maintaining communication with the Berwick-based postgraduates

Background

I am a mature-age, part-time postgraduate research student in the Management Department at Berwick campus, and a member of Monash Tourism Research Unit. I have a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a Master of Environmental Science from Monash University, and post-graduate diplomas in Teaching and in Business Management from other tertiary institutions. My Masters thesis investigated the issue of recreational conflict in forests, with an emphasis on the impact of motorised activities on non-motorised pursuits.

I have worked in park and recreation planning and management for 30 years, mostly in Victoria’s national parks, metropolitan parks, bays and waterways. I have also worked in visitor information, education and park interpretation, including the development of an interpretive strategy for Tasmania’s World Heritage Area, and I was a founding member of the Interpretation Australia Association.

My involvement with Monash University stretches back over four decades. During that time I have been involved with several tertiary institutions, either as a student, as a visiting lecturer, or as a member of course committees. In that time I have also seen Monash University grow and develop dramatically.

Research

I have particular interests in nature-based and heritage tourism, and Protected Area management. The focus of my PhD research is on guided long distance walking, and the scope for this activity to facilitate personal development and transformation. .

Personal interests

I enjoy active outdoor pursuits including walking, trail running, cross-country skiing and cycling, and am a regular leader in the VNPA Bush Walking and Activities Group.

I am also very interested in education and learning, both in the formal and informal sense. My involvement in the MPA results from my interest in the culture of the university, its range of roles in the lives of students, and the use of technology associated with learning and communication. I hope to increase awareness of MPA and its activities, particularly among postgraduates at Berwick campus.

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