A Guest Speaker With a Difference

After completing the 6,000km bush walk of the mainland continent from most north to south, Michael is very keen to share his experiences with as many Australians as possble as well as continue to raise further funds for the benefit of The Cancer Council.

Michael's presentations are unique in many ways, not least of which is his ability to make his audience fee like they're back 'on the track' with him. The Walk has left him with endless stories about the people and places he encountered along his jourey. Michael is the only person known to have followed the particular route of The Great Australian Cancer Bush Walk. So, only he knows the real story of what it's like to carry a back pack for a whole year through the Australian bush. In particular, his recollections of the Bicentennial National Trail (BNT) and The Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) are a must to anyone with an adventurous spirit.

Of course there was much more Michael's story than just making the finishing line. Michael explains his reasons behind deciding to support The Cancer Council and tells the story of his frustrations and triumphs whilst spreading awareness and raising funds for this wonderful charity. He also gives an insight into the massive task of organising and planning such a huge event.

Very Interactive

Michael believes in giving his audience the opportunity to shape the presentation by asking as many questions as they wish. He has such a huge range of experiences to draw upon that there will surely be something for everyone involved. Michael brings his backpack and much of his equipment from the walk to prompt questions as well as referring to the hundreds of images contained in his ever changing slideshow presentation.

Schools and Teachers

Being a very experienced teacher himself, Michael has a particular ability to engage both primary and secondary audiences. He understands the need for schools to often justify the engaging of guest speakers with regards to educational outcomes. Michael's experiences can be used to compliment VELS in all three core strands and across many domains. He is happy to tailor his presentation to suit the needs of schools if necessary.

Community Groups

Since finishing in May 2008, Michael has presented to a number of Rotary and Bush Walking Clubs respectively. Again, Michael's emphasis on inviting audience questions to help shape the presentation has proven to be hugely popular.

Costs and Fund Raising

The cost to schools of having Michael come to present $250. In addition, Michael will bring with him a donation tin to collect voluntary donations for the benefit of The Cancer Council. Donations of $2 or more will receive a gift from Michael. This gift is a small Australian flag, the same as Michael carried on his backpack throughout the walk.

There is no set cost to community groups. Michael encourages such groups to make a donation to The Cancer Council in return for his presentation. Groups wishing to offer payment of any sort can do so by negotiation with Michael.

TO MAKE BOOKINGS

Please call Michael 0429199717 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it