Viv McWaters, Director of Beyond the Edge Pty Ltd, runs a facilitation business that specialises in human and organisational development through communication, facilitation and learning. She designs and conducts individual workshops and training with groups to help with strategic thinking and planning, organisational change and effectiveness, leadership, communication, community development and evaluation. Before starting her own business, Viv worked in communications and management roles for many years, working with teams in developing their leadership capacities.

Although Viv operates independently she often collaborates with others to form a dynamic team to meet client needs - able to analyse and review what is happening and develop innovative, but appropriate, approaches to most situations.

Viv has co-ordinated the Victorian Landcare Program and catchment management in the Yarra Catchment, has developed community education programs, reviewed and analysed existing programs and services and is an accomplished editor and writer.

Viv uses a range of participatory approaches to facilitation and learning, including Technology of Participation, Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, action methods, drama, improvisation and humour. She brings to these roles her skills as a former journalist and community educator.

As an active member of various facilitation networks and organisations Viv is continually updating and developing her skills so as she remains on the leading edge of facilitation and evaluation practice.

Viv has worked in the agriculture, forestry, conservation, community services and community development sectors. She works throughout Australia and South-east Asia.

Viv studied agricultural science at Longerenong Agricultural College and has a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from RMIT, and a Masters in Applied Science (Agriculture and Rural Development) from the University of Western Sydney.