CQUniversity Emerald campus ITD Contractor/Developer Ben Robertson loves enabling staff and students to achieve their goals by making sure the IT equipment they are using works for them. He also enjoys helping people to help themselves in regards to technology, by providing insight into the cause of the issue they are having problems with.
What is your first memory?
I remember the summer of ’75 playing with my sister after opening Christmas presents. It was hot and Cat Stevens was blaring on the stereo (I feel old now).
What was a recent highlight of your life?
I have been accommodating backpackers and it’s been a blast. Over the past few weeks, I have had three Koreans, one Chinese national, one Dutch lady, a Slovakian and another from the UK. I have been exposed to some really dynamic people adventuring around Australia. I have really enjoyed giving them an insight into Australian culture and learning about them and their views on the world.
What is the best thing about being at CQUni?
In my role as IT Support Field Services, I like the fact that I am assisting staff and students by providing the Information Technology infrastructure that is enabling them to shape their future. Also, the people - they are the best thing about CQUni.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I like to play with technology in a creative way. I have a couple of high power RGB laser projectors, video projectors for projection mapping buildings and things, and when I’m going all out, 30 (moving head) fixtures that I am refurbishing over time. When the opportunity arises, I bring these to bear to create a cool atmosphere or environment for friends or the community. When all the dealing with the physical stuff is too much mucking around, I slip into virtual reality, where you’re only limited by your imagination and you get to meet people from around the planet.
This weekend is free - what do you do?
If it is a long weekend, I’d whip down to my friend’s near Bundy. He has a property with a 10 gigalitre dam backing onto a pine forest. A laser show over the water is just transfixing. I will often sit out there well after guests and friends have gone to bed.
Jamie Oliver is coming for dinner - what do you make for him?
I do a pretty wicked slow cooked chicken thigh with sweet chili, plum, soy and garlic on the BBQ, and of course my sister’s potato salad. This would be served with a few bottles of plonk or cocktails around the pool listening to cruisy house music or some jazz. Friends would be welcome … I think it would be more of a party.
