Meet Peta – Regional Director, Mt Gambier campus
I am new to the tertiary education sector with my last real connection being over 20 years ago on submission of my thesis and completion of my Master of Forest Science.
It's fair to say university life has changed considerably since I commenced my Bachelor of Agriculture Science on North Terrace in 1993, followed by several wonderful years out at the Waite Campus.
I joined UniSA in the role of Regional Manager, Mount Gambier in March 2025, following a professional career in public service – initially as a forester working with farmers planting woodlots. This was followed by a decade in forest policy and industry development and a further decade in regional development.
The first 12 months of the role has been fascinating as I observed a change management process like no other. I greatly appreciated my predecessor’s foresight that enabled me to have input into transitioning the Mount Gambier campus to Adelaide University.
The nature of my role means this involved not only managing the impact on staff, students and the campus, but also the external and public interface, engaging with the regional community, businesses, service providers and industry.
Although the transition to Adelaide University presented some challenges, the opportunities to be realised for our campus, and the Limestone Coast and South West Victoria that fall within our remit, is immense and truly exciting.
How do you start your day?
My day starts with a 50km drive from my home in Penola to Mount Gambier, taking in the majestic red gums, observing how the forests, pastures, and livestock are fairing across the seasons, dodging the odd kangaroo or emu and making way for the log trucks before arriving at the picturesque Budinya Precinct.
The Adelaide University campus, including the new Forestry Centre of Excellence is co-located with TAFE and the Limestone Coast Technical College. So it is not long before I’m negotiating my way through students and staff – many on their way to the local café.
How do you do your best work?
My best work is done when engaging with (internal or external) stakeholders who may be presenting a new idea, concept or partnership opportunity. I thrive on scanning for links or connections and aligning this with strategic direction and priorities. My extensive regional and government networks combined with a building Adelaide University base supports my mantra of collaboration and creativity to get the best outcomes.
What is the philosophy you live and work by?
It is about ‘equity’ not ‘equality’.
How do you balance health and wellbeing at work?
Weather dependent (which can be a challenge in Mount Gambier!), I sit outside in our courtyard area to eat my lunch and take off my shoes so I can stand on the grass and be at one with nature, even if for just a moment. I also take this opportunity to check in on my family and see how their day is tracking.
