In ‘Secret life of…’ we reveal the lesser-known sides of some well-known Macquarie people.
As Macquarie’s Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Tim Beresford looks out for people. There is one group of people he is particularly keen to support – the most vulnerable members of the Australian community. Here he speaks about his experience serving on the board of The Benevolent Society and the potential we all have to change people’s lives for the better.
A commitment to social justice is a part of who I am. As a young boy I watched my grandfather’s contributions to his local community, they were simple things such as delivering Meals on Wheels or raising funds for the local community at the local bowling club, all grassroots stuff with tangible and immediate impact. Spending time with my grandfather made me realise you can change people’s lives for the better.
The Benevolent Society (TBS) is about helping vulnerable people in vulnerable communities, at both ends of the age spectrum – whether it be young children and their parents or helping older people age well within their community. I am currently the Deputy Chair of TBS and have been on the Board for about three and a half years, working with people, communities and governments to deliver social impact and change. For example, recently I was in La Perouse and saw first hand the positive social impact TBS is having with the local indigenous community.
Prior to TBS, I was on the Plan International Australia Board for nine years. Like the Benevolent Society, Plan is very much about social purpose and meaning, helping children and families in developing countries have meaningful lives.
By nature, I’m an optimist who views the world’s challenges as an opportunity. Yes, there is still a lot of work to be done and I am confident as a society we can and will continue to make positive difference.
What’s great about Macquarie is that through scholarship we provide all our students with the knowledge and skills – both soft and hard – to play critical roles in tackling major social, cultural, economic and civil challenges facing our society. Now that is purpose and meaning with real impact!
Macquarie University actively supports community volunteering by providing up to two days leave for continuing full time and part time staff to participate in fun activities with local communities.
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