Q&A with Dr Keane Wheeler

UQ School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences Dr Keane Wheeler is one of nine new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander academics recruited through UQ's alternative career pathway program.

We caught up with Dr Wheeler to discuss his culture and what he hopes to achieve at UQ.

Where are you from?

I'm a proud Ngarabal man and Accredited Exercise Scientist. I live on the Sunshine Coast with my wife and three kids.

Tell us about your new role?

I'm a Lecturer, for UQ's School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences and an Affiliate Lecturer for UQ's Poche Centre for Indigenous Health.

My research focusses on how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities can co-design programs that engage children in a broad range of child development areas. I have co-designed movement-based programs, ensuring a trauma informed culturally-responsive approach towards childhood development. 

What inspired you to apply?

There are opportunities for greater impact working with UQ and stronger career progressions.

What do you hope to achieve at UQ?

I'm hoping to progress my teaching and research skills, experience and knowledge with Professor John Cairney.
As I can bring an Indigenous perspective and cultural background to this role, I hope to add to the voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within UQ and achieve greater reach and impact. 

What does this role mean to you?

I love teaching and research and want to make a long-term impact.

What have been some of career highlights to date?

I was the first Indigenous Australian to graduate with a PhD from the University of the Sunshine Coast and I was awarded the Accredited Exercise Scientist of the Year Award for 2020 from Exercise and Sport Science Australia.

I have led high performing teams working on education programs that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families through a strength-based and holistic framework. I have co-designed and provided Indigenous leadership to a range of projects that have catered for the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and through this experience I have partnered to deliver diverse governance solutions and educational engagement frameworks.

Last updated:
3 September 2021