Pages

January 19, 2009

"All that and more!" (My Statement of Qualifications)

Tourism Queensland is looking for an Island Caretaker with:
That's all great and everything, but why should Tourism Queensland take my word for it?  

Loyal readers (regular commenters and lurkers alike), I'm asking for your help.  Please tell us: Why should Tourism Queensland hire me for the job?


48 comments:

Anonymous said...

I first met Micheal in the community of Fort Liard Northwest Territories Canada. I was welcomed by Micheal immediately. I could tell we was inspired on all the beauty that was in and around Fort Liard. Within that one year I was living there me and micheal traveled up Mount Coty and a long the way I sure learned a lot about the land and history of the surrounding area. I feel Micheal would be a nature fit in tourisum and the region of Queensland.

Anonymous said...

Given his adventurous spirit and enthusiasm for all things outdoorsy, Michael is clearly the best guy for the job. Either him or Obama. But I suspect Michael can grow a better mountain-man beard so I'd give him the edge.

Anonymous said...

I was fortunate enough to go to high school with Michael. After quickly becoming friends, he was quick to introduce me into things that I never would have thought about doing. From rock-climbing (both indoors and out), to unforgettable camping expeditions in gail force winds, sleet, snow, and of course wonderful sunshine, Michael was a true leader on these wonderful experiences and ensured fun was had by all.

If Michael was able to take a city boy like myself out into the wilderness to show me what nature truly has to offer, I feel that there isn't a more passionate person about nature and the outdoors than him because trust me, I was very reluctant to go sometimes, but always glad I did.

Please send Michael to Australia. You won't regret your decision.

Anonymous said...

an adventurous attitude;
passion for the outdoors;
-------------------------
= Mike

Wow, good find Mike. Sounds like a perfect match for you.
That would be awsome to get paid to be doing something that you do that you enjoy so much.
Way too many outdoor trips to list here that we've been on... (rock climbing, ww canoeing, summer/winter camping, mountain biking, hiking, ect, ect ect...lots more)
Well good luck with this one...it sounds like it's right up your alley.

Anonymous said...

I can not think of a more better suited person for the job thank my good friend Mike. I've known Mike for many years and have always enjoyed listening to or reading about his adventures. This job needs someone who is aventurous, someone who will take risks, someone with passion, someone knowledgeable and someone who likes to share. From the time I have know Mike, he loves trying to new things and going to new places. He has a passion for culture, nature and travel. He's knowledgeable in everything he does or enjoys learning. His creative senses allows us to get a glimpse of his world as he shares his day to day life or the adventures of a new place he may have recently visited. I'm sure Mike will keep all the readers and views interested in what to expect next in the Adventures of Mike on the Big Island!

Good luck Mike!!

Peter Tyrrell said...

Michael is quite entertainingly insane. The things he does, and then labels "sport"! Outdoors!

I'm making him sound like a daredevil, which he is not. Yes, slow, surefooted, conscientious steps into mad outdoor pursuits are his hallmark. He has a stout heart and stouter legs.

And then, of course, he has to share it all by writing it down and making me read it, or by filming himself in the very act.

Dear God, give him an island in the sun to explore before he decides to test his mettle by moving his family to an ice yurt on the tundra.

Jennybell said...

He needs to thaw out after this Yukon winter. He ventures out in the worst of weather there so I'm sure nothing Queensland could throw at him would phase him. He seems to have moved around quite a bit and that means he's had to make new friends and adapt to new situations.

Anonymous said...

I actually don't know Michael BUT he has a fantastic blog and you can't help tuning in every few days for more of his meanderings. You will not find a more entertaining blog writer and competent adventurer to promote Queensland tourism.

Matt, Kara, Hunter and Cavan said...

Michael is also able to provide idiot-proof instructions over the internet regarding new technologies without making you actually feel like an idiot! I was having issues getting my skype account up and running and Michael (who basically only knows me through my blog) graciously offered to assist! He lives 400km away and was able to answer all of my questions and get me started right over the internet.

It can be hard to find strangers so willing to help, so I am glad that folks like Michael still exist out there!

Unknown said...

I've had the pleasure of knowing Michael since we met in university about 12 years ago. He is truly one of the most amazing people that I have ever met. He is one of those people that you are proud to call your friend, because of his dedication and passion that he puts into everything he does. His love of the outdoors is second to none, in my opinion, and that, coupled with his outgoing personality, patience, and desire to help people make him a truly extraordinary person.

He would definitely be a great asset to Tourism Queensland.

Anonymous said...

I believe Micheal is the best candidate for this expedition/toursim/island caretaker.
I have met Michael and His wife when they lived in Fort Liard, Northwest Territories a few years ago. They are friendly, caring, and adventurous. With a love for the outdoors not many people contain. Michael was always on an expedition, taking local kids on hikes, canoeing, walks, etc. He is energetic and confident and retains the full skills for this tourism opportunity. Good Luck Michael, hope for the best!

Anonymous said...

I also had my first outdoor rock climbing experience with Michael and in high school! He led a group of friends on quite the trek. We still talk about it years later. Michael's sense of adventure and love of the outdoors is contagious. I think he would love this job and you'll love him! Good luck Michael.

Anonymous said...

I read about this job posting on yahoo when I logged in to check my email one day. I thought now wouldn't that be a nice gig as I looked outside at the snow blowing furiously in my backyard. But I burn easily, start to panic when snorkeling and have never had a blog and read very few of them....since they are generally pretty boring. Michael's and his wife's are most entertaining - you'd even get two bloggers for the price of one.

Michael mentioned his application to me while chatting on facebook today and I immediately though now this is the right guy for the job...well actually I though at first wouldn't that be a nice climate change for him...from snow dogs to sea shells.

I've known Michael since University and he's one of the most adventurous people I've ever met. Every time I think of him I remember the time he dragged me out to the Rideau Canal in Ottawa to try to save the giant Carp that were trapped in the canal locks. I can't remember if his mission was successful - as it got colder I gave up and headed back to campus - but he was determined. This determination makes him the number one candidate for Island Caretaker. Even the title suits him perfectly. There is no one who would take better care of your island, and no one better to write about it. He is one dandy story teller.

Kathleen

Anonymous said...

Tailor made.....the job has Michael's name all over it.
Adventurous...yes...from the time he could crawl. Now, if there's a mountain he hasn't climbed, a river he hasn't canoed, a spot on the map he hasn't explored, it drives him crazy.
Passion for the outdoors...yes. Who'd sleep outdoors in just a sleeping bag in the middle of a Canadian winter, just to breathe the fresh air, and who couldn't bear working behind a desk....Michael.
Good communication skills...yes, especially since he's been blogging. When Michael believes in something, he finds a way to get his message out...I could list several instances where Michael fought for something...and got it done.
Enthusiasm for the role...a definite yes. When Michael's outdoors, he's in his element and his enthusiasm shines through.
Personality/creativity...I'm know Michael could sand carve as well as he carves snow, and he has a great personality too.
Pick Michael for the job...you can't go wrong.

Derek.Endress said...

I saw the footage today and realized his dream; he's the man for your quest. I've known Michael for the last 2 and a half years here in the Yukon. He is competent, kind, casual and loves to explore the north. So I think it only fair you let him do some xplorin' for you 'down under'! He's da man!

Anonymous said...

I met Mike in Fort Liard NT Friendliest and most welcoming man I have ever Met. Turns out he is quite the adventurist either it being paddling down the the Liard River or Treking through the Nahanni or being in the back country of the Yukon Territories. He has got to be the best canditate for the job

Givem Hell Mike

IndyComp0T1 said...

This job couldn't be more perfect for Mike. I have known him now going on 11 years and I have never known anyone to be more passionate for the outdoors and the environment as he is. As a bona fide city person, reading about his hiking and camping adventures almost makes me want to be more outdoorsy myself (see, he's THAT enthusiastic and THAT good a writer). His enthusiasm is infectious, his sense of humor is second to none, and he can even carry a tune, too. You can't go wrong. HIRE MIKE!

Anonymous said...

I met Michael in highschool. He's a fantastic musician and a really nice guy.

He's the kind of guy that drives you home on those nights when you're not even sure how to get to your own home.

And .. he makes me laugh.

Anonymous said...

The fact that you have a business degree and have done work in the tourism field before is a huge bonus. Plus, you're already a blogger; you know the medium, you've developed your blogging voice, and you'll bring your loyal readership along. Tourism Queensland would be gaining a whole chunk of audience just by hiring you.

Not to mention your loving and supportive wife, who is also a blogger, and an even bigger readership, who'd all be coming along, too. ;)

Meandering Michael said...

And I'm a PADI certified Open Water Diver (but I could use a refresher)!

Alex said...

hey don't feel so bad! John didn't exactly invite me either...I was invited by association! Which is just as good if you ask me...

I'm hoping to do the Butte in a couple of weeks (weather permitting of course)...thanks for the heads up on the cache!

Anonymous said...

Michael is one of the first people I met when I moved to the Yukon this past summer. The knowledge I have gained from him about the area has proven to be quite valuable.

Michael has such an array of interests and experiences he was able to help point me in the right direction of things I wanted to pursue.

Whenever I need information on anything I can always count on Michael.

Anonymous said...

If you are looking for someone who will catch a fish with his bare hands and bake it in a fire he started by rubbing two sticks together; explore the island to within an inch of its life, establishing geocaches along the way; and share his observations, experiences and misadventures with a wide, international audience in an intelligent and entertaining style…HIRE THIS MAN! NOW. He’s a can’t miss candidate.

P.S. If you squint, that snowbank he’s snorkelling off looks a lot like coral sand.

Anonymous said...

Michael has been a pleasure to know ever since I first met him in our high school years through Guiding and Scouting. I highly recommend him for this position.

Michael has an innate sense of adventure and enjoys new challenges. He doesn't take "no" for an answer, but seeks out ways to overcome obstacles. Yet his common sense is evident in his careful undertaking of risk management, making sure that his adventures can be safely accomplished. He is also resourceful, and able to problem solve when something unexpected comes up.

Michael has a comfortable and approachable manner. He is outgoing and friendly and enjoys meeting and engaging with people from all walks of life. His strong interpersonal skills would be an asset in this job.

Coomunication skills are another strong asset he possesses. Michael communicates effectively and clearly both in person and over the internet. He uses colourful and diverse vocabulary to describe settings, situations, people, or instructions. Yet his descriptions are clear and easy to understand. He has a strong knack for storytelling which has made me return to his blog daily to seek out his latest adventures.

Michael has a passion for adventure, for the outdoors, and for writing -- all of which make him the ideal candidate for this position!

Anonymous said...

I can honestly say that as soon as I saw this job listing, the first thought that popped into my mind was Michael. They would certainly get their money's worth if he was 'hired'. He would immerse himself in the cultural as well as physical aspects of the area and leave no stone unturned. His blog reports style would be informative and very puntual in its delivery. Michael Pealow thrives on the outdoors!

Anonymous said...

I met Michael through music in High School. He was several years older then me, yet he had the ability to communicate to all ages.

He played Trumpet and Tuba, while I played the Trombone. Both him and I were members of the low brass.

We also shared similar tastes in tasteless humour, music, Scouting, and many other activities.

He introduced me to many extra curricular activities I had either little, or no experience with before.

He got me involved in rock climbing, hiking, canoeing, camping, and many other outdoor activities I otherwise might not have found a love for.

Not only is he a bright and a hard worker, but he is honest and caring too.

Michael is the best person for the job, and is more then qualified to tackle any job you have to throw at him.

Anonymous said...

I've known Michael for a long time. I can't think of another person who has such a passion for the outdoors and making the people around him feel as comfortable as possible so that they would enjoy the same experience as he has. I had the privlege of going on some adventures with him and each time we were out, there were memorable moments that I will cherish for the rest of my years. The knowlege that he picks up along the way you could tell that he was soaking it all in. Where I come from, we have traditions that we take into our every day lives and Michael showed a high amount of respect to try new things that could take some getting used to but he showed no means of disrespect as he tried to learn them which caught the attention by all in the community and is easily welcomed to anyone's home because of it. I think he will do an amazing job without thinking twice.

Anonymous said...

Pretty simple - Mike is hands down the quintessential Canadian; the nicest person you will ever meet; a hard worker; adventuresome; open-minded; and, smart! I don't think I've ever spent time with Mike indoors - I can just picture him taking full advantage of this opportunity.

Queensland couldn't ask for a better advocate ...

Anonymous said...

I have know Michael since University. He is one of the kindest, most thoughtful person that you will ever meet. His love for life and his family is the epitomy of who he is. Whether it is playing with his kids or rolling up his pants to go into the Rideau Canal to rescue a female carp that was full of eggs, he always does it with a smile on his face. He would be a definite asset to Australia and Australia will never be the same after being introduced to Michael.

Lester said...

Where do I begin explaining why Micheal would be the perfect person for the position? I first met Micheal in HS...he was a few years older than me and assigned to my class as our peer helper. Being in a school with triple the capacity that I was used to and about 4 times the size peer helpers were put into place to address and fears and concerns we might have settling into our new surroundings of High school. Always willing to give the shirt off his back he always had an extra "hop" in his step. I remember specifically one occasion where we were outside cause of a fire drill and it being a surprise we were not prepared for the freezing temperatures with no outdoor gear. Mike gave the shirt off his back to one of the girls and huddled a bunch of us young frail girls into a circle and grouped "big strong burly men" around us to keep us warm. He's always up for adventure and definitely got a greater appreciation for the world around him.

Anonymous said...

definitely the perfect guy for the job. He wears shorts in December for heaven sakes because it's "such a beautiful day!" Ever since I've known him he's always been up for the next adventure and if one isn't presented to him he'll create one and make the most of it and of course memorable for all.

Anonymous said...

Micheal has a adventurous spirit in anything that he has to do. He loves the outdoors,and has a great passion for life. He is so good to talk to, I have never heard him say anything bad or negative about anyone.He is very helpful to anyone that needs help, and he is creative. Micheal is amazing, he loves his family and life.

Anonymous said...

I also met micheal in Fort Liard, he is a great guy to be around, he always puts a smile on your face no matter the situation. I found that every thing he did came from the heart and he never complained if somthing went wrong. he tends to always be on the ball and a very organized person. he took me on a trip to some water falls during the winter one time and we snowshoed a couple of kilometers just to get there, and the best part about it is that he did it on his own time. I think he is the man for the job.

Heather, aka: Mum said...

Heck, You have to hire Michael otherwise I'll never know ANYTHING about your little island!! & I'd REALLY like to know about your little island.....

Besides, there really aren't anyother choices worth entertaining now are there?

Did I mention how persuasive this man is??? Oh, & level headed & amusing....

Just hire him! You'll learn to love him just like us :)

Anonymous said...

Michael is a good friend of my eldest son, and they went to high school together, and on many adventures.

I still remember numerous times answering the doorbell in the middle of a Canadian winter, only to find Michael there, in shorts, with exposed legs!!! I couldn't get him to come in fast enough so that I could close the door to the howling, blowing snow and cold.

He and my son went on many camping trips, bike trips etc. I remember one overnight winter (who the heck does that???) camping trip they did in the woods surrounding our homes. There I was, in the middle of that night, huddled under my electric blanket (with it turned on, of course!), listening to the wind shake the siding on the house and wondering about the two of them out there in a tent. Of course, they showed up fine the next day...Michael going on about what a wonderful jaunt it was, and my son agreeing with me that it was an awful cold night! :-)

Michael would be absolutely perfect for the job!!!

Anonymous said...

I met Mike in University... great guy to know and well tuned to helping anything that breathes. I will always remember his heroic efforts to save the fish from the annual draining of the Rideau Canal. I think he saved around 20 fish that were trapped in the locks of the Canal... He rounded up a few volunteers and all of them went down into the canal and saved as many of the fish they could catch. Put them in buckets and then transported them to the river to give them a new lease on life. Nature is one of Mikes greatest loves, and he appreciates every living being in it.

Anonymous said...

if the fact that Michael has been living up north in the territories for the past i don't know how many years doesn't show how adventurous and outdoorsy he is then i don't know what will! i don't know anybody else who is as passionate with the outdoors and the environment as Michael is! plus as his blog definitely demonstrates he not only loves to do stuff outside (even in the frigid cold) but he certainly appears to love to write about it on his blog! it's great for his friends who are scattered across the world as it helps us feel a bit closer and feel like we get to share in all his adventures! please send him somewhere warm to do what he passionately enjoys doing and so he can change his profile pic! :)

Unknown said...

Michael is indeed one of the most innovative and adventurous people that I know. He is full of life and I am constantly amazing by the things he gets up to. He will be a fabulous winner of this job and I have no doubt he will be a truly wonderful advocate for Australia. He border-lines insane but has a wonderful personality that is very likable. The connection to Canada's north is also a great one that will be a nice contrast to Australia's beautiful warm sunny climate.

Anonymous said...

Michael Pealow, whom i have known for 18 years, has always been outgoing, friendly and adventurous guy. He takes big chances and never really see obstacles when he wants something.

He's the only Junior student i knew that was in Junior band, senior band and stage band. If there were adventure and hiking club he would have done that as well without batting an eye - if Mike wants it, he will do it!

I delight in the the stories he tells about Fort Liard and White Horse. He has conveyed what a wonderful place it is to live up north. Most of us never even heard of these places, let along want to live there...and Mike has not only bridge the gap in our knowledge of this wonderful place, he has had people visit him, some even MOVED there.

I could go on about what a wonderful adventurous and creative person Mike continues to be, and how his blogs are well written, and other than his wife probably the only blog i actually read BUT what other proof do you need?

Mike was able to get people who knew nothing of Whitehorse to move there....you would only need 1/10 of his talent to get him to convince people to visit a glorious island.

So clearly he is over qualified, but for $150,000 you should take the BEST.

Regards,
Kathleen O'Neill

Anonymous said...

Michael is the type of person people want to be around. He is what we all aspire to be...fun, determined, happy, secure, doesn't sweat the small stuff, and handles the BIG stuff with ease and grace.

It isn't a question of his wilderness skills, and his blogging is superb (unlike my spelling and run ons). He documents with gorgeous photographs and intelligent and useful video, but most importantly he makes you want to be there. That is BIG because us Canadians we have our cold weather...it would be easy to convince us that a warm island in Australia was a good idea, but this guy convinces us that a COLDER place is divine!

Michael Pealow is the type of person that makes everyone around him want to do better, be better. Most of the time you don't even realize until you read a collective of comments on all the things Michael has done throughout his travels that you were once touched by his upstanding morals, kindness, and sense of humor - and you are a better person for having known him.

He doesn't need the job...but your are sure lucky he WANTS it, but be careful what you wish for, if Michael just brings his friends alone, it might fill your island right up!

Anonymous said...

When Micheal told me he was applying for this job I knew instantly that he was perfect for it. I've know Mike since high school and even though you lose touch with the people you grew up with it feels like no time has ever passed and he makes that possible with his blogs. I love reading about what he and his family is up too. I really don't think you will find a better suited person for this adventure. I can't wait to learn all about Hamilton Island and Queensland from Micheal and Fawn!
Good Luck Mike....Queensland will be lucky to have you.

Speaka said...

I first met Michael through our blogs...he's my blog brother. I think he would make an excellent Caretaker for the Island. He is obviously an adventurer. He loves nature. He is a prolific and eloquent blogger. And...have you seen his video! He is certainly ready, willing and able to try insane things and vlog/blog about it to share with the world!

Asheya said...

Definitely hire Michael! Not only is he intelligent, funny, and adventurous, he also brings with him his blogging wife and two small children.

You'll get adventure tourism PLUS family friendly holiday! More than one target market, more than one blogger, all for the price of one. This is your man.

Anonymous said...

Given the fact that Michael snorkeled at below zero temperatures, there is no denying he is a motivated individual. A true original, I met Michael on a joint working group dealing with aboriginal issues. I found him to be professional, thorough, and above all welcoming and fun to be around. He is also extremely interested in and passionate about the outdoors. I would definitely support his application for the Queensland position.

Karen Dove

Anonymous said...

This message is for the hiring agency for the position Micheal is apply for "the best job in the world"...

If you hire Micheal, I would be completely shocked if your visitor numbers didn't triple within 9 months..he's THAT GOOD!! He is the most friendly, well manner, optimistic, enthusiastic, intelligent, trustworthy, faithful and dedicated person, friend, employee and leader I have ever had the pleasure of working along side. He is the PERFECT MAN for this job. I am as certain about his abilities to do this job as I am about How much American's Love their new president!! I am sure you will hear from others about him and see his qualifications, but what you haven't seen yet is him in action directly....I would not hesitate to hire him if I was doing the hiring...I have worked with him in many areas of business development, tourism and arts and culture, he is truly amazing and his skills are extremely diverse as is his love for life and his commitment to his family and well being..someone your island needs to lead your team. Thank you.

Bryan and Vikki said...

Micheal visited our remote lake (100 km from the nearest road) last Sept. I had a satelite computor system for email. In two hours he had made us a Blogg site, had hooked us up to Skype and corrected my computor...he was wonderful.. Even now at the drop of a hat when I am in trouble on the computor ....I just email him and right away he has the problem solved...and he does this as a friend. Also while he was here on this remote lake...(we are the only couple living here) he climbed the mountains all around the lake....this man is adventurous and has the gift of the gab with a quick wit... He is wonderful, He impressed us immensily. Trappers Vikki and Bryan

Anonymous said...

I got to know Mike during my university years. He's a great candidate because he is everything everyone said above and more! You won't find a better person: devoted to his work, loves the outdoors, all around great guy!

Idania said...

I would choose Michael for this job in a heartbeat! I've known Michael over 12 years, and you couldn't get a friendlier, more outgoing person.

As a mom who also has 2 young daughters, I think that this will give Michael an edge up on some other candidates, as he likes to blog not only from his point of view, but also his family's. This will attract:
-the adventurous type
-the family types who might be hesistant to try something 'out of the box', and show them how wonderful it is to share this experience with their children
-everybody else!

Plus, the fact that he's been able to get national coverage on his application says a lot; imagine what he can do for Tourism Queensland?

I guess my only concern is:
Will Tourism Queensland will be able to keep up with Michael?

;)

Idania