Anonymous

Private citizen

Jul 18, 2009

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

All interaction with nature has had a large impact on me. My grandmother worked voluntary for WIRES before she died and so my house and yard was always filled with animals being cared for. Particularly in the last two years, I have had a pet bird, an Indian Ringneck, who I absolutely love, his personality, innocence, and trust in me is a very special thing.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood? How about now??

Yes my favourite place as a child was the beach, and particularly now, I love Pebbly Beach on the south coast of New South Wales, where the Kangaroos roam the beach in their natural habitat. The wildlife on the beach is amazing.

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

All birds. I believe birds are amazing, beautiful and intelligent creatures.

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

The greatest challenge facing the environment I believe is simply the fact that a HUGE majority of people do not respect it. If people had a little more respect for the environment, then they would be able to contribute to a more sustainable future for the environment. Education is a major factor. As a teacher, my number one aim throughout my career is to educate children about respect for the environment and all life.

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

"We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children". I believe this quote is very meaningful when you think about it. People need to have a deep think about how they want to leave the planet for future generations.

Do you have any comments or other information that you would like to share relating to this project?

I believe education about the environment is the number one issue and start to a solution. There is not enough environmental education in schools and there needs to be a further emphasis on this.