IntervieweeDr Ross McPhersonInterviewerNeil ChippendaleRecorderKaren RichardsonDescriptionRoss Gordon McPherson was born in 1958 in Parramatta, New South Wales. He was the son of John and Rosemary McPherson and grew up in Epping, New South Wales. It is in his early years, searching for tadpoles in the creeks around Epping, where his interest in the environment began.
Ross was educated at Carlingford Primary School and Carlingford High School. Once leaving school in 1976 he worked for TAFE from 1977 to 1989, the Environmental Protection Agency from 1989 to 1992, and then UTS from 1992 to 1994 before joining Hornsby Shire Council in 1994. While working these jobs, Ross studied between 1977 and 2002 gaining his Chemistry Certificate, Bachelor of Science (Hons) and his PhD. Ross continued working for Hornsby Shire Council, reaching the position of the Chief Environmental Scientist, until his retirement in September 2018.
On the eve of his retirement, Dr McPherson reflected on his childhood and his long career with Hornsby Shire Council. During the 75 minute interview, he went into some detail about various projects he had been involved with throughout the years and explained the environmental changes in Hornsby Shire he had witnessed. He also expressed some thoughts about the future of the Environment Division in Hornsby Shire Council.
Ross was 59 years of age at the time of the interview. He spoke clearly and confidently during the interview and had a good recollection of his time at Hornsby Shire Council. Ross communicated the interesting story of his career well and in great detail. The quality of the recording is good, with very little extraneous noise apart from the occasional closing door outside the room.
The strength of this interview is Dr McPherson’s detailed articulation of his career and clear passion for science and the environment. The interview gives a wonderful insight into a man dedicated to improving the quality of life for people in Hornsby Shire. DateSeptember 5 2018LocationHornsbyKeywordsDr Ross McPhersonHornsby Shire CouncilEnvironment & Human Resourceswater catchment
