Michele uses her personal experience as a person who is hard of hearing to advocate for those with lived experience – opening hearts to disabled perspectives. She holds a Master of Philosophy (Education) from the University of Newcastle and a Master in Community Management from the University of Technology, Sydney, and is a current member of the Disability Leadership Institute.

Following consultation with staff, students and groups across the University, Michele has formed a representative group of people with lived experience called the Lived Experience Network of D/deaf and hard of hearing.  The Lived Experience Network is open to all D/deaf or hard of hearing staff, students and community groups. If you are interested in joining, contact michele.nealon@mq.edu.au

1. Something people usually ask you when they find out what you do for a living

My career has been an eclectic one, so people who know me, often ask how I am making a difference now.

2. Something you would like staff to know about

The International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is celebrated annually on 3 December, but many in the disability community are perfectly happy to identify and be recognised as people with disability every day of the year.

Not all disability is visible, yet all of us, whether we know it or not, work and play with people with disability on a regular basis.

3. The theme for IDPwD 2023 is ‘Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world’. What does this mean to you?

Technological innovation is making huge changes to the range of devices and services available to people who are hard of hearing. I’m thinking of vibrating watches that alert of motion, vibrating alarm clocks, AI captions (although there is still some way to go with accuracy), hearing loops and the like.

The most transformative solutions for inclusion are of the human kind. The ones where all people, organisations and businesses are willing to engage in flexible communication methods to provide accessible communications to those who are hard of hearing.

4. Something you feel proud of

Macquarie University Hearing recently hosted a seminar by the world’s most recognised advocate for hearing loops, Dutch-born US citizen Dr Juliëtte Sterkens – a fabulous presentation that shared critical information in creating inclusive environments for all people who are hard of hearing.

5. What you need to do your best work

To be surrounded by people who know what it means to provide an accessible and inclusive environment for people who are hard of hearing like me, AND chocolate!

6. Something you have read recently that has had an impact on you

Positively Purple by the magnificent Kate Nash. So many useful tips on building an inclusive world where people with disability can flourish.

7. Something you are aiming to do differently in 2024

I will continue to advocate for the inclusion of people who are hard of hearing in all matters that impact them.

8. Your definition of success

I believe in the quote that, ‘Success is a journey, not a destination’. I continue to work towards ensuring people who are hard of hearing are visible, heard and above all, valued in their contributions.

9. A personal quality you value in others

The ability to gently invite outsiders into conversations.

10. The first person you go to for advice

A wise friend who listens intently to what I’m saying, isn’t afraid to tell me when I’m wrong but invariably provides gentle clarity of thought and action when I’m struggling.

Beginning in the neuroscience field, James developed a passion for innovation having seen how research and innovation in health can have a direct benefit to a patient’s quality of life. James then moved into a role coordinating collaborative research and innovation-based projects across the Westmead hospitals, as well as universities and medical research institutes.

“These projects proved that when we work together, we can be greater than the sum of our parts – the multiplier effect in action,” he says.

James was influential in developing the culture of commercialisation and entrepreneurial thinking among the researcher and clinician communities through the delivery of educational programs, partnership opportunities and participation in the broader innovation ecosystem.

James is thrilled to have joined Macquarie Incubator and looks forward to using his skills and passion for innovation in STEM to support startups across a broader set of sectors to reach their potential.

1. Something you would like staff to know about

Learning entrepreneurial skills and design thinking is not only valuable to startups, but it can also help anyone to think clearly about identifying problems and creatively solving them in the most effective and efficient ways.

2. Something you feel proud of

I am proud to be in this role. I get to work with amazing startups and inspiring company founders across a variety of sectors including healthtech, fintech, defence, software, manufacturing, sustainability innovation, and more.

3. What you need to do your best work

A problem to solve and some pumping tunes from my headphones.

4. The most impressive/useful piece of equipment you use in your work

The Incubator building is pretty incredible and has won prestigious international architecture and design awards. Come up and check us out some time.

5. Something people usually ask you when they find out what you do for a living

“But what do you actually do?”

6. Something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you

I just finished The Psychology of Money, by Morgan Housel and it was a fascinating look at how this super important thing in our lives – money and financial security – is impacted by our perceptions and behaviour. I think it should be mandatory reading for all school leavers.

7. The first person you go to for advice (and why)

My wife. She is wise and tells it how it is.

8. A personal quality you value in others

Humility.

9. Something you’ve been trying to do differently in 2023

To see every moment in life as an opportunity for personal growth. Even the hard times … actually, especially the hard times.

10. I’m happiest when…

I’m playing with my two young boys and being in the ocean.

Morgan has nursed in both the United Kingdom and Australia in the public and private systems for the past 30 years and is an Advanced Life Support Instructor and a member of the Australian College of Critical Care Nurses.

1. Something you’d like staff to know about

As a cardiothoracic case coordinator, I care for patients that mostly require open heart surgery, thoracic surgery and minimally invasive heart surgery. Most patients are over the age of 65 and I find patients are understandably anxious about their surgery. My job is to ensure they are well educated about their surgery and recovery.

The job I do as CNC Cardiothoracic case coordinator is the best and I love doing it. I get to know people at their most vulnerable and stressful time. They allow me into their lives and, overall, I believe I have a positive effect and I consider this a privilege.

2. Something you feel proud of

The team I work with. The nurses, doctors, allied health staff, ward clerks, cleaners, kitchen staff and porters work at a high standard, always have the patient as their first priority and work well together as a team.

Macquarie University Hospital staff members are from many different backgrounds, they are welcoming and lots of fun. There are always many laughs in my office and at the nursing station. It makes you feel good coming to work, even when it is busy and stressful.

Seeing patients go home to their families after surgery is an achievement for us.

3. What you need to do your best work

Definitely my team. I can only fulfil my role by working with the team I work with. I often think of my role as the icing on top of the cake; all the other staff do the bulk of the hard work (the cake) and my role is the icing on the top.

4. The coolest bit of equipment you use in your work, and what it does

The TED stocking applicator is a simple device that assists in applying compression stockings to a patient’s leg. It is simple, effective and great for your back.

5. Something people usually ask you when they find out what you do for a living

Oh, you are a nurse? I have this pain on my…

6. A favourite photo from your camera roll

We have the cutest dog called Archie. He is a Beagle and he is the most spoilt dog in the world!

7. Your definition of success

Happiness. I think being happy in your life, both personally and professionally, is so important. You don’t have to earn a lot of money or be the best at something; life is short and you need to enjoy it.

 8. The first person you go to for advice (and why)

My mum – she is a great listener and I value her advice.

9. Where you live and what you like about living there

I live in Marsfield. I love living there as I have lots of friends close by to catch up with and it’s easy to get to work. I also love the beach and heading up the coast, which I can access easily from home. There is also lots of great walks locally and I love walking with mates, often stopping for a refreshment along the way.

10. I’m happiest when…

I’m on holiday, especially in Shoal Bay. If I am not on holiday, I am planning one. I also love just hanging out with my two daughters. They make me laugh.

She completed a Bachelor of Law and Communications (Public Relations) at Western Sydney University and was admitted as a solicitor to the Supreme Court of New South Wales. She practiced for three years, specialising in Civil Litigation, Family and Immigration law, before joining Macquarie.

The Research Awards team supports the management and administration of all research funding awarded to Macquarie researchers, as well as unfunded research projects with specific regulatory requirements. The Research Awards team ensures that researchers and the University meet obligations to external sponsors and partners throughout the project life cycle. In her role, Dorothy is passionate about delivering high-quality customer-focused support to researchers, providing them with a point of contact and making it easier to access the information and resources they need throughout their project.

1. Something you’d like staff to know about 

The Grant Development and Awards team within Research Services has developed a new Notification of Intent (NOI) Form. This is a one-stop form to notify key research support teams of a researcher’s intent to apply for competitive research grants, engage with partners or work with philanthropic funders. The NOI also creates a Pure record so that’s one form doing two jobs.

More information about NOI can be found on the Research Grant Resources page.

2. Something you feel proud of 

I am proud to lead a dedicated team who provide outstanding service and are passionate about their work.

The Research Awards team encompasses both the former Research Contracts and Research Post-Award teams. We have recently celebrated our one-year anniversary.

3. A person you admire at Macquarie, and why

Dr Erin Semon, Director of Research Grants and Awards is an empowering leader and manager. Erin is consistently her unfiltered, authentic self. She offers outstanding opportunities to our team to further develop our skills, knowledge and network. We feel confident knowing she is in our corner.

4. What you need to do your best work

A quiet workspace, noting I am the most disruptive in the office.

5. The coolest bit of equipment you use in your work, and what it does

While reviewing documents by way of track changes is fun, on special occasions I indulge by printing a hardcopy. I love iPrint.

6. Something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown.

7. A favourite photo from your camera roll

This is Chloe, Research Services’ Mental Wellbeing Puppy and Contracts Coordinator. We enjoy going for strolls by the lake on campus to decompress in between meetings.

8. The first person you go to for advice (and why)

My dad. He is pragmatic, respectfully challenges my view and always shows unconditional love. He also has a talent for not getting distracted by my theatrics, a skill I learnt from being the middle child. 

9. A personal quality you value in others

Consistency and kindness.

10. Something you’re trying to do differently in 2023

Not sweating the small stuff by focusing on my circle of influence.

Jason has a background in primary education as well supporting primary, secondary and tertiary students from disadvantaged backgrounds with their education.

He started working at Macquarie in 2023 and was quickly appointed to his current role. His role is varied and involves implementing initiatives that target increased access, participation and success in higher education for potential domestic undergraduate students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds, and regional and remote areas, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The essence of WPU is about enhancing equitable access to learning; every student should be given the chance to aspire to higher education.

Jason is also currently the Macquarie delivery lead for the NSW Equity Consortium (NEC), a partnership between the University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, the University of New South Wales and five Greater Western Sydney high schools to deliver a literacy-focused program. The program is based on a unit of work called ‘Imagined Futures’, which seeks to expand students’ future educational and career opportunities.

 1. Something you’d like staff to know about

We are always on the lookout for Macquarie students who would like to assist in the delivery of WPU programs and events, facilitated both on campus and within schools. Best of all, it is a paid position.

 2. Something you feel proud of

Working with a great cohort of Equity Ambassadors. We currently have more than 50 in the NEC Program – and staff to inspire our next generation of students in schools.

3. A person you admire at Macquarie, and why 

My manager Adeline Pandian, and not only because she is my manager, but also her enthusiasm and genuine motivation to make a difference to those around her and to the students we are trying to engage.

4. The coolest bit of equipment you use in your work, and what it does

We have an ex-ambulance vehicle that our team uses to transport resources to events and programs throughout New South Wales.

 5. Something you’ve watched recently that has had an impact on you

I have been watching a TED talk by actor America Ferrera discussing the importance of being your authentic self, even if you may not fit the mould. She says, “Change will come when each of us has the courage to question our own fundamental values and beliefs, and then see to it that our actions lead to our best intentions.”

 6. A favourite photo from your camera roll

I love taking photos. This picture was taken when I was walking through a disused tunnel under Wynard Station as part of an event called Dark Spectrum.

7. Your definition of success

I know it’s very clichéd, but success to me is when something I have done has made a difference or a positive impact.

8. The first person you go to for advice (and why)

My partner, Mo, who always seems to have a way with words.

9. A website or app you can’t live without

Recipetineats.com – I go to this website for inspiration of what to cook for weeknight dinners.

10. Where you live and what you like about living there

I live in the vibrant Inner West where there is always something to discover such as a new café or a local event. There is always a sense of energy around!

After completing her Bachelor of Science (Biomolecular science) and Diploma of Education at Macquarie in in 2013, she worked as a high school science teacher in Australia and the United Kingdom for nine years.

Working in the public education system was a wonderful experience that gave Ellen the chance to meet an incredibly diverse range of students and help them discover how science connects people with each other and the world.

“I loved teaching, but I was also interested in looking at other ways of engaging people with science, so I now work for the Junior Science Academy, which runs science programs for school-age children. My role is to deliver science incursions and excursions for schools (pre-school to high school level), which we’ve just started doing this year,” she says.

1. Something you’d like staff to know about

The Junior Science Academy (JSA) is offering school programs. If you know a teacher or school wanting to get their students excited about science, let them know. 

JSA is also running a school holiday program from 25 September to 6 October where primary school-aged children can learn STEM based topics in a fun and interactive environment.

2. Something you feel proud of

Our team recently piloted our primary school incursions that explore chemical reactions, electricity and coding, and our educators did a brilliant job.

3. What you need to do your best work

 A clean desk, a cup of tea and a window.

 4. Something people usually ask you when they find out what you do for a living

I often hear, “Oh, I hated science at school”, which is the experience JSA wants to change!

5. Something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This book is a beautiful exploration of how Indigenous knowledges and science interact and can strengthen each other.

6. A favourite photo from your camera roll

In January I got to live my dream of visiting Antarctica – kayaking through the sea ice past penguins and leopard seals was truly a life highlight.

7. Your definition of success

 Finding the right balance of purpose and rest.

8. A website or app you can’t live without (and why)

FaceTime, to talk to friends scattered around the world.

 9. A personal quality you value in others

Kindness and care for other people.

10. I’m happiest when…

 I’m out walking or I’m reading with my cat on my lap.

She completed her PhD in India and has more than a decade of experience in research services, including considerable experience in the submission and management of competitive grants.

In Dr Kaur’s current role in the Grant Development Team, she has been actively involved in providing grant specific strategic advice, taking the lead in specialist grant schemes, resource development and providing high-level support to academics under tight deadlines.

With a comprehensive understanding of internal and external processes and procedures, she is providing valuable insight into the development of grant and fellowship funding strategy support documents across the University.

1. Something you’d like staff to know about

Researcher Pitch Week is coming up. Pitch Week provides an opportunity for Macquarie academics to present their research ideas and receive valuable feedback from Macquarie experts, including academic peers and grant development specialists. The event will take place from 12pm – 5pm on Wednesday 13 September in room T2 at 23 Wally’s Walk. All members of the Macquarie community are welcome to attend.

2. Something you feel proud of

I feel proud that I work in a great team. It was fully established only last year and has already progressed to provide quality service in grant submissions, while working to overcome obstacles, achieve milestones and provide excellent service to the academics at the University.

3. A person you admire at Macquarie, and why

Dr Erin Semon, Director of Research Grants and Awards. She inspires me through the leadership of her teams and the way she gives space and time to each employee. She understands the ‘why’ and acts and advises accordingly. She is approachable, encourages communication and makes herself accessible to each employee when needed.

4. What you need to do your best work

I prefer clear instructions, clear goals and space to do my best work.

5. Something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you

The book Atomic Habits. It provides a practical framework for creating positive changes in one’s life. By making small consistent actions, one can develop habits that lead to improved productivity, health, relationships and wellbeing.

6. Your definition of success

Success to me is to love what I do. Success is a journey, not a destination.

7. The first person you go to for advice (and why)

My mother, because of the deep bond and the trust we share. I get to learn from her experience, knowing that she wants the best for me.

8. A website or app you can’t live without (and why)

Google search engine along with its suite of services like the Gmail, Google Maps and Google Drive as it is essential for everyday tasks.

9. Where you live and what you like about living there

I live in Sydney. I like that Sydney provides so many opportunities in education and employment, and has culturally diverse food and events.

10. A personal quality you value in others

Empathy. I believe demonstrating empathy is an important value, and empathy along with kindness are strong values for any human being.

From all the universities she toured, it was her most memorable Open Day experience and the moment that lead her to complete Bachelor, Honours and Master degrees at Macquarie. Little did she know she would go on to spend many years working in that very laboratory, as both a research student and a microscopist, exploring the tiny world of living and non-living things.

Between roles at other organisations, Nicole has now worked at Macquarie for more than 20 years. For much of that time she has worked closely with postgraduate students, teaching them specialist microscopy skills and collaborating on research projects. Subsequently, her work diversified to include contributions to work health and safety policy development and work integrated learning program governance. In her current role as Technical Project Officer, she supports strategic and operational initiatives within the faculty, with a focus on the Technical Operations and Macquarie Analytical and Fabrication Facility groups.

“I have a lot to thank Macquarie for – in addition to education and career achievements, many friendships have sprouted here. I even met my husband at a Conception Day long ago,” says Nicole.

1. Something you’d like staff to know about

Astronomy Open Night is on Saturday 23 September. Tickets go on sale soon!

2. A person you admire at Macquarie, and why

Alison Downing, who amongst many admirable things, cultivates an appreciation of botanical diversity through her enlightening Plants of the World stories.

3. What you need to do your best work

Enthusiasm and a view of something natural, whether it be a desk plant, blue sky or trees in the distance.

4. The coolest bit of equipment you have used in your work, and what it does

An ultramicrotome (pictured below), which is used to cut ridiculously thin sections (~70nm) for biological transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

While it is certainly not as glamorous as using the microscope, the ultramicrotome is a far more challenging piece of equipment to master and one that is critical to image sections through TEM.

5. Something you’ve listened to recently that has had an impact on you

The Threads podcast by Veronica Milsom. The figures on how many clothes Australians buy, how little we wear each item and how much is discarded are pretty confronting. Buy less. Wear it more.

6. Your definition of success

Being happy with and proud of the outcome, even if it isn’t exactly what you envisaged or planned for at the onset.

7. Something you can’t live without (and why)

My garden – it saves me a lot on gym fees and is a source of so many emotions (from ‘Wow, I’ve found a hornwort growing!’ to ‘Drat, something has feasted on the pumpkin I was about to harvest!’).

8. A personal quality you value in others

Honesty and openness.

9. Something you’re trying to do differently in 2023

Eat less chocolate!

10. I’m happiest when…

I am outside, sharing my love of the natural world with my children.

Sydney born and bred, Geoff entered the industry as a carpenter and builder in the early 1990s. After working his way up the ranks to become a high-rise construction supervisor, including on projects at Macquarie, he started a new role as a client-side project management consultant in 2000. Since then he has continued to lead project teams to deliver significant buildings and complex capital programs.

In his new role, he is accountable for all project delivery outputs on campus and leads a team of Macquarie project management staff, retaining expert external specialists if required to augment capability and manage peak workloads. Working in close concert with the wider Property team, the project management mandate covers the full spectrum of capital construction on campus, from flagship projects such as the Michael Kirby Building, all large and small refurbishment projects – from lab upgrades and deep building maintenance, such as facade replacements, to the current assignments underway at the Macquarie University Hospital. The team also supports our partnerships, both commercial and research, by helping create bespoke environments for research and incubator spaces.

Geoff is passionate about the role that the built environment can play in the wellness of our society: “Buildings create immense value for our communities socially, practically and economically. Conversely, they consume enormous amounts of materials and energy, and people spend most of their time inside them.

“As professionals we have a responsibility not simply to minimise the environmental impacts of their construction and operation but also to search for ways to design, construct, use and occupy them that enable us to be better connected, more engaged, happier and healthier.”

1. A person you admire at Macquarie, and why 

I’m going to nominate a team – namely everyone who works at the Macquarie University Hospital. I am lucky to be a cancer survivor and even luckier that my life was saved right here on campus by the amazing team of talented, dedicated nurses, doctors and support staff. I am grateful every single day for the wonderful care I received – thank you. 

2. What you need to do your best work 

No one can do it on their own, and I am looking forward to working with the great team here in Macquarie Property as we continue to deliver rewarding, powerful outcomes for our community. 

 3. Something people usually ask you when they find out what you do for a living 

A very hot topic at the moment is housing – not simply availability and affordability, but the distressing number of contractor insolvencies and the disturbing increase of shockingly defective new apartment developments. I am consistently asked, ‘How can this be happening?’ 

4. Something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you 

I have just re-read Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard. I was prompted to pick it up again after he recently rolled the Patagonia empire into a public trust, effectively gifting this multi-billion-dollar enterprise to the community. Apart from being an athlete, craftsman, pioneering environmentalist and – as he puts it – a reluctant businessman, Chouinard is also an inspiring leader. While the book could, in my opinion, use a solid re-edit, the feelings he evokes and the themes he captures have never been more relevant. 

 5. A favourite photo from your camera roll 

Here is a picture of our wedding at Shelly Beach in 2019. That’s Caroline and I with our three handsome sons – Cooper, Isaac and Tom – and two of their lovely partners Rachel and Indy, plus the world’s most excited five-year-old boy, our dear little mate Walt. It was absolutely everything we always hoped our special day would be and more! 

6. The first person you go to for advice (and why) 

My gorgeous wife and soulmate Caroline. She is the smartest, most genuine person I have ever met and absolutely has my number. She knows me better than I know myself and always makes a safe space for us to discuss, examine and resolve anything that life throws at us. She is a truly amazing human being, and I am the luckiest bloke alive to be her partner. 

7. Where you live and what you like about living there 

I have lived in Sydney my whole life, mostly near the coast and more recently in the inner east. I can’t help but feel very fortunate to be living in a place that is clean, safe and has so much to offer. Let’s hope our politicians and community leaders start making better decisions around social and environmental issues, planning policy, infrastructure projects and, in particular, housing availability for everyone who wants to join us in this wonderful city. 

 8. A personal quality you value in others 

Authenticity – pure and simple. 

 9. Something you’re trying to do differently in 2023 

It’s a little corny, but I’m trying to find some time every day to be as still as I possibly can be – and remember to see my life for what it is, rather than for what it isn’t. 

 10. I’m happiest when … 

Caroline and I have our boys and their partners altogether at our place – sharing a meal and some drinks, playing cards and having great conversations. 

Established in 2015, the committee plays an important role in supporting MQ Health’s patient-focused approach to healthcare. It achieves this by developing policies and patient feedback surveys and establishing volunteer programs, among other initiatives. Find out more about the committee. 

1. Something you’d like staff to know about

MQ Health has a very active Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC). The committee is a great place for staff to take ideas, projects and other health-related concepts to receive feedback from a consumer perspective. We have recently developed and launched the Consumer Partnership Framework, which we co-developed with MQ Health. The framework is the perfect place to start to find out about how to engage and partner with consumers to improve patient care. 

2. Something you feel proud of

The CAC gave some great constructive feedback for a brochure about wound care after hospital discharge. The final version of this brochure after our input was made simpler to meet the health literacy needs of patients and showed us as a committee how much value our opinion and feedback had. 

3. A person you admire at Macquarie and why 

That’s a hard one because I have at least three: 

1. Jane Goodwin-Moore (volunteer manager)  
2. Dr Karen Shaw (breast surgeon) 
3. Ruth Cho (McGrath breast care nurse)

They all have the same characteristics. They are all kind, caring people who have the ability to listen to, work in partnership with and support people whether they are patients or volunteers. 

4. What you need to do your best work 

Having like-minded consumers and staff who are truly committed to consumer engagement as a partnership, who work together as a team and understand that together we can improve patients’ experiences and outcomes.

5. Something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you

My favourite book, Stay Alive, My Son, is about a Cambodian man who loses his entire family to the Khmer Rouge. He and his wife had to leave their son behind in a hospital so that they themselves could try to escape Cambodia to Thailand. I can’t ever imagine having to make that choice. He ended up losing his wife in a forest fire on the way to Thailand. This book puts life into perspective and makes you realise what a lucky country we live and bring our children up in.

6. A favourite photo from your camera roll 

Finish line of the 80km Sydney to the Gong Ride for MS in 2022. Had only arrived back from the UK five days before. I think my face says it all, pure relief. Feel free to sponsor me this year. 

7. The first person you go to for advice and why 

Peter, my partner of 32 years. He’s impartial and never afraid to say it how it is. He always tells the truth, even when I don’t want to hear it, and is my biggest support.

8. Where you live and what you like about living there 

We live in Concord. I love it. It’s central to just about everything other than the beach (the one downside) and it’s where the majority of my friends live. It’s such a peaceful suburb, and we are lucky enough to back onto a beautiful reserve and enjoy the peaceful outlook every single day.

9. Something you’re trying to do differently in 2023 

Accept there are some things I cannot change and be comfortable with that.

10. I’m happiest when … 

When my family and their partners are all home for dinner and a good chat.