I was born in La Jolla California, and raised as an Aussie. And yes, my parents are hippies, hence the name. I grew up mostly in rural areas around Australia during my formative years, and I developed a keen interest in how the world worked.

A strong interest in electronics began at the age of four when I first saw my Father soldering wires together, explaining, "that's how electricity flows". The passion for electronics was in full swing as a hobby from the ages of eight through until today.

During year 10 at High School, I studied Digital Techniques at the Carnarvon School of TAFE, and the following year studied Microprocessor Design. It was during this time I bought my first computer love; a "Pocket TRS-80" which I carried with me everywhere. (ok, I'm a Nerd from way back)

After joining the Royal Australian Air Force, training as an Avionics Systems Specialist (electronics plus instrumentation) and working at Pearce Air Force Base, I was ready for a new challenge.

I have since worked in many sectors within the Electronics and IT industries, always seeking new challenges and room for continued learning. Among the favourite places to work was the University of Western Australia, where I worked for three years in a research environment. It was here that I met and worked with a wonderful mentor, Wladek Bzdyl, a Polish born Electronics Engineer who taught me well. Wladek had worked for the Russian Navy specialising in RADAR Engineering and had many amazing stories of electronics as well as the human challenges. He is the King of analogue electronics!

In 2002, I enrolled at Edith Cowan University and studied for a dual degree in Business Law and E-Commerce which, after completing most of the degree, decided that I'd learnt exactly what I'd gone there for and went back to full-time work. It's said that "knowledge is power", yes, but only when put into action!

Flying in Argentina

Chilean coastline