I was born in and raised in Bairnsdale, East Gippsland.I became an exchange student in Thailand in 1981 at the age of 17 and lived in Bangkok learnt the Thai Language and studied Buddhism and Thai culture.
I returned to Australia, in 1982 and started as an apprentice Plumber and Gas Fitter in the Family business.
I married my long-time girlfriend Sue in 1985 and left Australia in 1987 to spend 3 years backpacking across Africa and Asia.
When I returned in 1990, I took up a position back in the Family company training apprentices and site manager for Farquhars Plumbing.
I was awarded a Bosch scholarship in 2003 and went to Germany, Portugal and Austria. I visited two Poly-Technical schools to see how apprentices were trained and visited 3 Biogas farms. I also visited the Bosch manufacturing plants in Portugal and Germany.
I spent 2010 to 2013 offshore in Bass strait working on the Kipper Tarrum upgrade project with Esso Australia which is an oil and gas fields project.
In 2008, I created a business called Powerhouse-shop, an alternative energy company dealing in solar energy and Biogas products.
I was a Member Bairnsdale fire Brigade from 1977 to 2000 and had several positions from coaching to the secretary, to Third lieutenant.
I was introduced to and joined Rotary in 2000. In 2003, I assisted with the formation of Bairnsdale Sunrise and became its first President. I have had many highlights in this club, President of the Bairnsdale Air show, co-Ordinator of Feast on the East festival.
I moved to the Mitchell River Club in 2018 and was heavily involved in the East Gippsland Rotary Fire Aid. Out of this developed the East Gippsland Timber Milling Project, a combined Lions and Rotary Project. I have received a double sapphire Paul Harris Fellow and still love every Rotary moment.
I am still married to Sue and have two wonderful children Bronte and Dylan. Two young adults now living in Melbourne and living their lives.
