What’s been happening at your prison at the moment?
Lots of lock ins, new supply chain operations, Course Cert 2 starting soon, BBQ meat packs available $11.70, recently had a NAIDOC Week BBQ.
If you could start a program inside prison what would it be and why?
Definitely a poetry program so we can express ourselves, our emotions, thoughts, feelings and share with others who are interested. We can support and encourage each other.
What is something people on the outside don’t understand about prison life?
It would be all the lock ins – it’s like you’re trapped and there’s no escape, it’s mentally draining like being held hostage against your will. It’s inhumane as we don’t get access to the basics like sun or fresh air.
Also the amount of time it takes to see a doctor or nurse: forever.
And the mind games that go on in here – jail politics etc. Physically, being here does not bother you much unless you have a wife and kids etc then it becomes taxing on you. It drains you not to be there on special occasions like anniversaries and kids’ birthdays.
I find the psychological games and pressure can be very draining, so 3pm lock in is “me” time to escape the immature bored individuals.
But change is possible for everyone, it’s up to the person. Are they willing to turn their life around? It’s worth it in the long run not just for yourself but others who care most about us – our family, sons, daughters, wives, friends.
They are doing it hard too without us – it’s like they are doing jail time.
They feel mixed emotions like a rollercoaster of ups and downs.
What helps you get through hard days that you’d like to share with others?
Remaining positive despite toxic distractions, trying to overtake your thoughts and mind, focus your energy on things that take your mind to a calm place like reading, poetry.
Making calls to family and friends can definitely get your mind in a better position, it’s good for mental health.
Think about the future – better days await with family and friends. I say each day is another step closer to release, you’re always moving forward even if it feels slow remember the officers can’t stop time ticking forward.
I also say our mistakes do not define us, they teach us we are only human. Nobody’s perfect, we made poor choices or a bad decision but it does not reflect our true character.
Exercise is a thing that will lift your mood increase serotonin, joy or exercise and also share a yarn and have a laugh.
If you could interview a famous person who would it be, why them and what would you ask?
Kylie Minogue. I’ve actually met Kylie – I won tickets in the Sunday Telegraph years ago to meet her backstage at Capital Theatre with free Lemon Ruski beverages, had my photo taken.
She is a true Aussie icon who most Aussies love and adore due to her performances on Neighbours.
I’d ask what was her biggest highlight whilst on the set of Neighbours and what is something most people didn’t know about Michael Hutchence as she spent time with him and got to hang out with Michael, a true music icon.
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Never give up your goals and dreams, try to fulfil your ambitions and don’t let anybody hold you back.
Also think before you act as there are consequences for our actions.
Love your mum, treat her kind, make the most of time spent with parents as you never know when they will leave you and go to heaven like my mum in 2017 of a stroke brain aneurysm, tragically gone at 70.
Tell us about a day in your life that you’ll never forget.
A pinch myself moment was working at Home nightclub in Darling Harbour from 1998 to 2000.
It was a dream job as I got to meet the world’s best DJs like Carl Cox, Judge Jules, Paul Oakenfold, Pete Tong, and to top it off I was there working during the official Olympic Games afterparty for all the Australian athletes: Cathy Freeman, Andrew Gaze, Evander Holyfield was there too.
It was a once in a lifetime thing. Home was the official afterparty venue for athletes to let their hair down – awesome.
What’s your favourite TV show right now and why do you like it?
The Voice, as people have amazing skill and talent. They underestimate themselves, doubting their talent and when a judge turns around they are blown away. It’s very inspirational and shows we are capable of achieving anything deep, we all have it, just gotta have belief in ourself.
What song or musical artist always lifts your mood? Why?
Jelly Roll. He speaks from the heart, been through struggles but still remains strong. A lot of people can relate to him – powerful words and very meaningful. Also when I hear John Denver it reminds me of mum.
What book has stayed with you after reading it?
Any Jack Reacher book by Lee Child, as well as Robert G Barrett’s Mud Crab Boogie.
