Consul General visit to Gippsland region

1 September 2010

Consul General for the United States of America, Mr Michael Thurston, listens to a research presentation at Monash University's Gippsland campus

Consul General for the United States of America, Michael Thurston, recently visited Monash University's Gippsland campus where he spoke about the education, economic and research opportunities for the region.

Meeting with the University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ed Byrne and the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Gippsland campus, Professor Helen Bartlett, Consul General Thurston said that education was the single biggest factor in ensuring productive, prosperous communities and effectively responding to the challenges of our time.

Consul General Thurston said this was particularly important to regional sustainability, the environment and low carbon futures, and recognised the efforts of Monash University in shaping its teaching and research efforts accordingly.

Citing examples from the US and his experiences as a senior diplomat in posts around the world, Consul General Thurston said successful education providers needed to be not only locally responsive and relevant, but internationally engaged and connected.

During his visit, Consul General Thurston met with Monash University researchers working on clean coal, carbon sequestration and water management, before inspecting the unique training spaces of the Gippsland Medical School.

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Helen Bartlett, said that Consul General Thurston's visit reflected the growing profile of the campus, and an increasing appreciation of the role universities played in regional Australia.

"I'm delighted that Consul General Thurston has found the time to visit the campus, and allow us to draw from his significant experience and interest in education," Professer Bartlett said.

"Consul General Thurston's visit confirms that Monash University Gippsland continues to be seen as a leading regional campus, and one that is positioned to support the community well into the future."

Outside of his professional duties, Consul General Thurston said that he and his family had enjoyed discovering Gippsland's unique environment since arriving in Australia in 2008, including several camping trips to Metung and Lakes Entrance.