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Dr Arthur Wilson
Leadership, Reflection, and Life in the Southern Forests

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The Golden Years: One Experience at a Time

The Pemberton Tram Experience…

Melissa and I recently went for a ride on the Pemberton Tram, winding our way gently through the Southern Forest to the Cascades National Park. It was one of those experiences that invites you to slow down, to learn more about the history of your town, to admire the natural beauty, to listen to the flowing rivers, birds singing, and to simply be present, relax and enjoy.

A Journey Through Time

The ride on the Pemberton Tram was as much about stories as it was about the journey itself. Along the way, we learned more about how the town of Pemberton was established, the rise of the once-mighty timber mill and the role it played in shaping the town, as well as the challenges the community faced when the mill eventually closed.

We heard how the Prince of Wales — later King Edward VIII — travelled on these very tracks in 1920, only for his train to be derailed. We also heard tales of train robbers from another era and how they emerged from the trees…then disappeared back into them with the loot never to be seen again.

All of this was expertly brought to life by our tram conductor, Peter. For the price of a ticket, it was remarkable value — and it left us feeling a little more connected to our Pemberton community.

Sitting writing this post I recall that the forest was calm and beautiful. I still have visions of the towering Karri and Marri trees, the soft light, the waters from the local rivers moving quietly through the landscape. It was the kind of place that reminds you how fortunate you are to be exactly where you are.

First Experience of 2026

This year feels different for us. We’ve decided that it’s a year of experiences, of shared moments with each other, with some family, and with some friends. Our stage of life is often called the “golden years.” We don’t take that phrase lightly, and we certainly don’t take the time for granted.

The Pemberton Tram ride was one of our first experiences during 2026 and we hope for a few more. Simple experiences, unhurried, fun and meaningful. Some moments will be close to home like this one, others will take us further afield — including something we’ve never done before: Traveling to our first Formula 1 race.

Different settings, different types of experiences. Each special in some way. Each an opportunity to create wonderful memories.

Our journey continues.

My Journey: From San Diego to the Southern Forests of Western Australia

I’m retired…or as close as it gets. I was enjoying retirement when I was recruited by the Southern Forests Food Council (SFFC) to assist them as the Executive Chair (part-time). Most of my life I lived the city life, but now I am living (and loving life) in Pemberton, Western Australia in the heart of the Southern Forest Region.

These days, besides time with family and friends, I enjoy watching the vineyards, farms and communities in the region evolve.

This website shares the story of learning about being freed: my journey to become a professional, from being a technician to a manager, from being a follower to a leader. To strengthening existing relationships, to building new ones, to drawing boundaries.

I have done the grind and looking to enjoying the benefits, including enjoying the simple things in life, a few experiences, time to relax and enjoy precious moments.

I have built a life based on a mission to reach my personal and professional goals. Mission accomplished.

My new mission is the journey to simply enjoy life.

Leadership Reflections: Work, Life, and What Really Matters

Here’s what I’m thinking through as the work and my life changes shape.

How to enjoy life, stay sharp without letting work consume me, my day, my week, my month, my year.

As my life evolves, how to make the transition to the “golden years” and do what it takes to make the best of the time…

Also I take time to reflect on something I have been doing for time… what it means to lead a transition—to guide people, organisations, communities through change.

I reflect how Melissa and I still hold hands, our steady we are when life gets busy, the noise gets louder, boundaries breached: We figure it out and move forward. We remain focused…no drift.

On this website I provide short, direct essays. Just what I’ve learned and what I’m still trying to solve.

Southern Forests Leadership, Academic Research, and Community Impact

I chair the Southern Forests Food Council, helping guide practical, long-term transformation across industries, communities, and policy.

I continue my academic research on how change happens—why systems fail, how leadership shapes outcomes, and how to rebuild structures designed to endure.

In the Southern Forest, I advocate for growers. I cut through complexity. I build systems that run well without me, so the region strengthens itself over time.

Here you’ll find short bios, project snapshots, and ways to connect—whether you’re a grower seeking support, a researcher looking to collaborate, or a partner working to strengthen the region.