Monitor meets...
Alan Nicol

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Canberra?
Originally Toowoomba QLD. I moved here in 1973 to take up a position at the then Canberra College of Advanced Education

What do you do at the University?
I'm a graphic designer for the Division of Communication and Education and, as such, design some of their marketing material, as well as book covers, posters, OHP transparencies, invites, Powerpoint Presentations - in fact anything requiring design skills beyond those of the requesting staff member. I'm also the Division's photographer.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear University of Canberra?
That now that I'm retiring I won't have to think about UC for a long time.

What is your favourite thing about Canberra?
The fact that you can get out of it quickly! I like the ease of getting around, the bush so close to the city.

If you could change anything about Canberra what would it be?
Move it to the coast.

What are you: reading / watching / listening to?
- Reading Underground by Andrew McGahan
- Watching ABC TV Wednesday nights - "very angry" that The Glasshouse has been axed
- Listening to Sarah Blasko

Name three famous people (alive/dead/fictional) you would like to have
dinner with and where in Canberra you'd take them?
Clive James
Sarah Breedlove Walker
David Tench
For a barbecue at Uriarra Crossing

What couldn’t you live without and why?
My car - because we live in the country, we are so dependent on it for all our transport needs. And my camera for creativity and my computer for communication and information. (Google is my friend). And music for relaxation.

Where did you go on your last holiday?
Chiang Mai, Thailand

How would you spend your ideal weekend?
An early morning walk with the dogs along a deserted beach followed by breakfast in a café overlooking the water. Do a cryptic crossword - catch a few waves, then enjoy a long lunch. Read and sleep till it's time to go fishing. Enjoy the sunset with a champagne while listening to Chris Rea - preferably in a spa. Watch the full moon rise out of the ocean before a light dinner/BBQ with friends.

Repeat as required.