Dr Patrick Gilmour
Professional Background
Patrick is an evaluation specialist with more than 15 years experience undertaking research and evaluation with a particular focus on the environment. Coming from a background in ecology, and a PhD exploring collaborative approaches to the management of natural resources, Patrick is adept at navigating the ecological-evaluation nexus.
Career Journey
Patrick has led more than 50 evaluations of large-scale environmental programs implemented in complex contexts. He has worked extensively with agencies in NSW including the Natural Resources Commission, the Environmental Trust, Local Land Services, and government departments. His passion for quality work is balanced with a pragmatic view of what is reasonable and feasible. This has resulted in a reputation for reliability and beneficial work across those Patrick has worked with.
Approach and Expertise
Patrick's speciality is the development of fit-for-purpose evaluation processes - particularly the creation and use of data collection tools that are both implementable and useful. Patrick has undertaken evaluations of dozens of grant programs, and is well versed in the diverse needs or organisations and projects 'doing' the work on-ground.
Specialisations
Patrick brings advanced evaluative conceptual skills, data analysis, and reporting capabilities with extensive experience operating at the intersection of the environment and environmental evaluations. He has in-depth understanding of environmental programming, particularly in NSW, and extensive experience in complex, multi-level evaluations.
Selected Projects
Patrick has led and contributed to evaluations and research projects that address significant environmental and natural resource challenges, demonstrating expertise in complex evaluation design, stakeholder engagement, and translating findings into actionable recommendations.
Coastal IFOA Monitoring Program 5-year Evaluation
Led independent evaluation of the Coastal Integrated Forestry Operations Approval monitoring program's adequacy. Evaluation included detailed document review and videoconference interviews with 30 stakeholders to assess program effectiveness.
Formative Evaluation of the Feral Deer Project
Developed and implemented evaluation framework for this $9 million program aimed at developing and testing new methods for controlling feral deer. Included extensive stakeholder interviews with NPWS staff, LLS stakeholders, researchers and landholders.
GAPP Stakeholder Outcomes Evaluation
Evaluated the $65 million Grains Agronomy and Pathology Partnership, gathering data on research output uptake and adoption by grain growers. Used surveys and phone interviews to demonstrate outcomes in increased yields, profit, and environmental benefits.
Forest Monitoring and Improvement Program
Designed evaluation plan for this multi-million dollar investment in forest monitoring across NSW. Supported the Commission through stakeholder consultation and development of comprehensive logic model for program outcomes.
Areas of Expertise
Patrick's expertise spans environmental evaluation, ecological research, and natural resource management, with particular focus on complex programs requiring innovative and collaborative approaches.
Evaluation and Research
- Environmental Program Evaluation: Leading evaluations of large-scale environmental programs across diverse contexts including biodiversity, natural resource management and agriculture
- Ecological Research Methods: Advanced capability in ecological research intersections with evaluation methodology
- Complex Multi-level Evaluations: Expertise in navigating complex program evaluations implemented across multiple stakeholders and jurisdictions
- Framework Development: Specialist in developing evaluation frameworks, program logic, and theory of change models
Environmental Specialisations
- Natural Resource Management: Deep understanding of collaborative approaches to natural resource management systems
- Biodiversity Conservation: Expertise in forest monitoring, marine biodiversity, and conservation program evaluation
- Pest and Weed Management: Extensive experience evaluating pest control programs, including feral deer and blackberry management
- Climate Change Programs: Experience with climate adaptation and sustainability program evaluation
Technical Skills
- Advanced evaluation design and implementation methodologies
- Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis
- Stakeholder consultation and engagement processes
- Grant program evaluation and review
- Environmental monitoring and impact assessment
- Policy analysis and evidence-based decision making
Collaborative Approaches
- Stakeholder Engagement: Extensive experience in designing and facilitating meaningful engagement processes with diverse stakeholder groups
- Participatory Research: Skills in implementing community-based research approaches that centre local knowledge and perspectives
- Collaborative Governance: Understanding of collaborative approaches to environmental management and decision-making processes
- Capacity Building: Experience in building evaluative capabilities and supporting organizational learning and development
Education & Qualifications
Patrick's educational background in ecology and social dimensions of natural resource management provides a strong foundation for his work in environmental evaluation and collaborative approaches to complex environmental challenges.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Human Geography)
University of Melbourne • 2012
PhD exploring collaborative approaches to the management of natural resources, providing deep understanding of the social dimensions of environmental management and stakeholder engagement. -
Bachelor of Science (Ecology) (Honours)
University of Melbourne • 2002
Initially trained as a marine ecologist, providing strong foundation in ecological principles, research methods, and environmental systems understanding.
Professional Development
- Environmental Evaluation: Advanced practitioner in evaluating complex environmental programs and natural resource management initiatives
- Collaborative Governance: Expertise in stakeholder engagement and participatory approaches to environmental management
- Systems Thinking: Specialist in applying systems approaches to environmental and ecological challenges
- Mixed-Methods Research: Advanced skills in combining quantitative and qualitative research approaches for environmental evaluation
Previous Experience
- Senior Consultant - Roberts Evaluation
- Marine Ecologist - Australian Marine Ecology
- Researcher - Australian Conservation Foundation
- Teaching - Masters of Environment Program, Melbourne University
- Research - Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute, Victorian National Parks Association, Deakin University