Where are you from? I’m a good ol’ Canberran!
How long have you been climbing for? 13 + years
How did you first get into climbing? I have been climbing my whole life, just not rocks. If you have one of those kids who climbs up the fridge and clothes horse given any opportunity – that was me! Climbing up trees and over fences since 1994.
What is your proudest climbing accomplishment? I spent a good 6 years competing with the Rock Squad family. In that time, I have competed in many fun and character-building comps. My proudest times are probably just those where I have sent a move/climb/problem I really believed I couldn’t. I was probably proudest when this happened in Bouldering Nationals in Sydney where I was competing in the Youth A category and ended up coming first.
Where have you climbed outdoors? Climbing outdoors is so different to plastic and so challenging. I have climbed outdoors mostly in New South Wales (Mittagong, Nowra, etc.) but also in Victoria at the beautiful Grampians and Tonsai in Thailand.
Do you coach for CIRC? I have coached the Rock Rats and Geckos, but I am not currently coaching.
What are some of your personal goals? My non-climbing goal (as I am not seriously climbing any more) is to run my own dog sanctuary. Until that time comes, probably be able to go a whole week without eating chocolate. If either of those fail, I still have my trusty coin collection to expand and complete.
What are your other hobbies/interests besides climbing? I enjoy volunteering, accounting (for now at least), collecting coins, animals, and getting outdoors.
What advice do you have for newbies who are just trying climbing for the first time? My first bit of advice would be not to limit yourself before you get on the wall – often people surprise themselves with how well they do (especially those afraid of heights!). The second piece of advice for when you’re on the wall; use your legs to push you up (not arms pulling so much), keep your hips in close and think about your next move/hand or foot hold!
What’s the best part of your job at CIRC? I really enjoy the atmosphere of working here, inclusive of the staff, customers and general environment. It is such a great friendly place to be and always improves my week, whether I am climbing or working. My favourite part would have to be meeting all of the different people who visit us and running birthday parties with the kids.