Story: Born in Sydney in 1972, I grew up in Cobbitty NSW with the land as part of me. I am the eldest of 5 children. My father works as a Plumber and a backyard philosopher. My mother studied to be a Naturopath and Massage Therapist, however, sadly passed away in 1998, aged 43. My parents fostered a strong work ethic and ensured that everything that they learnt in their life became my lessons too. Consequently, I was plumbing from the age of 3 and learning how powerful natures medicines are. These skills combined with my creative nature and sense of adventure has given rise to several entrepreneurial ventures in my life. Unbeknown to my parents my upbringing was very similar to the values of Aboriginal culture, I was taught a respect for the land and people and a sense of spirituality that had no reference to traditional western religions. I feel my family values now allow me to share the friendships of this Aboriginal community in Gerringong.

I trained as a practicing artist in the mediums of Drawing, Photography and Sculpture. I have exhibited locally and internationally and continue to develop my art practice. In 1995 I received an OAM for showing leadership to Youth of Australia whilst on board sailing The Young Endeavour from Sydney to Brisbane. I then received a scholarship from The Australia British Society to sail on board English Tall ship vessels in The Canary Islands. From my sailing experience I learnt invaluable skills about team management and timing.

As a practicing artist, exhibition officer and teacher for the past 13 years I have been able to have a unique experience with the local Aboriginal community. Through building skills and an awareness of the visual world our dream of "Boolarng Nangamai" has become a bridge for all communities to gather and celebrate culture with creativity.

I believe my vision and ability to teach others how to believe in themselves has allowed this unique place and experience to come about. BN Studio provides a home to practice traditions and ensure they are not lost and that they are passed onto other communities and generation to respect and value Aboriginal Culture.

PROJECT INVOLVEMENT:

Museum of Sydney Cadigal Place exhibition

Living knowledge in science education ANU

DEEWR - Economic Indigenous Employment Initiative

Regional Arts NSW - Design of innovative funding application and art skill development workshops.

EDUCATION:

Masters Applied Science - Conservation of Material. 1st year complete

University Western Sydney

Masters of Education - 2 subjects complete

University of Wollongong

Advanced Diploma Fine Arts TAFE

Cert IV Training & Assessing - Kiama Community College

Cert I Tourism Australian Indigenous Culture

Certificate in Foundry

NEIS Small Business Course

EMPLOYMENT:

1995 - 1997 Wollongong Regional Gallery

1995 - 2010 Wollongong West TAFE

2005 - 2010 Arts Development Officer / Director.