What’s been happening at your prison at the moment?
Our frequency of ‘lock-ins’ is increasing to about 2 per week while staff do training for the handover. Program offerings, schedules and food options remain the same – at least I’m treated correctly on a dairy-free diet.
If you could start a program in prison, what would it be and why?
An engaging opportunity to be closer to nature would help. It gives prisoners a connection to green environments and helps
with mental and physical health.
What helps you get through hard days that you’d like to share with others?
Having an opportunity to talk to other inmates who are of a similar age (over 60) and societal background.
If you could interview a famous person, who would it be, why them, and what would you ask?
The spiritual leader Gandhi.
Tell us about a day in your life that you’ll never forget.
The day I proposed to my now wife of nearly 42 years of marriage. We were doing an evening walk whilst staying at a relative’s house in Tasmania.
What’s your favourite TV show right now and why do you like it?
My wife and I would enjoy watching Hard Quiz, hosted by Tom Gleeson on the ABC. This show is one of the most witty intelligent comedies on TV.
What song or music artist always lifts your mood? Why?
‘Piano Man’ by Billy Joel, as my wife and I saw him perform in Sydney and his musical talent amplified the importance to sing clear ballads that tell stories to those who listen to all the words.
What book has stayed with you after reading it?
The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People by Stephen Covey.
