Getting to know... Tom Heenan
Dr Tom Heenan
Name: Tom Heenan
Title: Dr
Faculty/Division: Arts
Campus: Caulfield
How long have you worked at Monash?
Ten years.
Where did you work prior to starting at the University?
I worked for the Department of Defence. I had a job writing briefs on Australian defence industry, and compiling and editing a catalogue on Australian and New Zealand defence capability.
What do you like best about your role?
As part of the Australian Studies program, taking international and local students on walks through the Barrier Range outside Broken Hill and watching the sun set over the Mundi Mundi plain. It’s hard to top.
Why did you choose your current career path?
It’s one of the few jobs where you’re encouraged to think rather than follow someone else’s thinking; and universities are the most international of workplaces.
First job?
Wiring hair dryers in a Collingwood factory.
Worst job?
Dairy farming on the west of Ireland. Too wet and too many early mornings after too many big nights.
What research/projects are you currently working on and what does it involve?
With David Dunstan, I am writing a biography of Sir Donald Bradman and a history of Australia-India cricket.
What is your favourite place in the world and why?
Karimabad in the Hunza Valley in north Pakistan. There is a grassy plataeu a good walk above the village where you can sit and look at some of the world’s highest mountains in the shadow of Ladyfinger Peak.
What is your favourite place to eat and why?
Glenarys in Darjeeling in the foothills of the Himalayas. Great place for a beer and a curry while watching the sun set over the tea plantations. Locally, the steak sandwich at the Charlton pub.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
When you’re being publicly criticised for your thoughts, you’re doing your job.
Tell us something about yourself that your colleagues wouldn’t know?
I once took block at Lord’s, but that was another life ago.