What do I do to chill out?

Iwork 12 hours per day. The times I’m not actually working I spend time with my family, and have somewhat risky hobbies. My ideal travel destination is somewhere with fresh water, a flushing toilet and electricity for a few hours a day.

I work.

I am constantly reading Journals, research articles and discussing with colleagues new ways to use lasers. I invent and evolve new methods, but safely push the envelope of cosmetic laser dermatology. If you enjoy what you do, it’s not work- it’s expanding your mind. 

I lecture.

I am away for 6 weeks of the year lecturing overseas. I have been doing this for the past few years. It gives me a break from clinical work, but also gives me an opportunity to see what other Specialists are doing overseas- this is very important as I can bring back new treatments from countries such as the United States and Asia.

I help

Once a year I travel to the Pacific, and practice tropical dermatology- it is very different from Cosmetic and laser dermatology! I always bring a suitcase full of medications as Third World countries do not have access to the medications we have. They say charity starts at home- I beg to differ. I think these countries need access to good skin care. Simple medications to eradicate lice in children or anti-fungal creams makes a huge difference.

I travel.

I hate 5 Star Hotels as I’m stuck in these boxes when I lecture. My holidays are spent in some remote Island in the Pacific. My ideal holiday is a hut with a fan, electricity a few hours a day and local food from the village. The harder the journey, the more beautify the destiny. My favourite destinations are East Solomon’s or Islands North of Indonesia. I started my career as a marine biologist, so every break is a diving vacation. I end up doing most of my web projects in between dives. My best ideas are with a little nitrogen in my blood stream!

My family.

I have a girl who is growing up quickly, and a wife who is the most tolerant and patient woman I know. So far I’ve dedicated my life to work, and some day that tide must turn. The one with fur is Toby, my wife is to my left.

My passion.

I have a soft spot for animals, and adore my Jack Russel, Toby. We always do the Million Paws Walk and every year we sponsor a kennel to keep homeless dogs fed and well. 

I race.

I won several race events in Queensland, and every chance I get I am on the track. I race Porsches and Renaults. I love cars, but only race cars. I travel to the US annually to take part in circuit racing and race training. I don’t have a future in Formula 1…yet alone the local car club. What is my daily drive? A 10 year old hatch back, or a 40 year old classic. I am not into bling, and feel embarrassed to be seen in a modern prestige car. Each to their own. You can pick my car in the doctor’s car park- it is the one with the roll cage. 

I rest.

I only sleep 4- 5 hours a night, so taking a break from my professional life is a real treat.