Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I majored in Arabic at university and lived in Tunisia for three months.
What are you most passionate about?
Addressing the lack of diversity in kids books. Kids need to see themselves represented positively on the page. If they don’t, they notice it. They start to wonder why. I had that experience growing up and I don’t want others to.
What do you love about writing?
I love that moment when a kid finds something they really like to learn about. It’s magical. As a kids author I also like keeping up with what kids are reading, thinking, feeling, and hoping.
What do you love about Pakenham?
I grew up on beautiful Wurundjeri country. Since moving to Boon Wurrung country, I’ve been exploring and learning about the land with my kids. I like creeks and wetlands, especially if I can hear birds and frogs. I wish I could see what the Kooweerup swamp looked like before it was drained. We like to go to the swamp lookout. I’d love to see some of the wetlands restored and initiatives to connect people to the rich history of this area.
What would your last meal be?
A bowl of tofu and veggie pho and some rice paper rolls from 2 Fat Ducks in Pakenham and a slice of my wife’s homemade pizza.
What was your most memorable moment?
When my kids were born! I sang to both of them when I held them for the first time. I just remember being full of joy and gratitude for my partner who had worked so hard to bring them both into the world.
What was your favourite subject in school?
I loved English and Literature in VCE. We studied Cat’s Eye by Margaret Atwood and Ariel by Sylvia Plath, and I still love both books.
What event past or present would you like to witness?
I would have liked to see disabled artist Lisa Bufano perform before she died. She’s an amputee, like me. I’d especially have liked to see ’Five Open Mouths’ performed live. I’m so glad I can still watch it on YouTube, though.
Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?
I’ve always wanted to meet Alice Wong, a disabled activist, writer and friend from Twitter. I wish I had met disabled comedian and activist Stella Young before she died, so she’d definitely get an invite. And disabled artist Larissa MacFarlane, who created my favourite visual artwork, the Disability Pride Mural, in Footscray! I’d invite disabled poet Andy Jackson so we could talk about poetry. Jackie Saunders is an amazing Indigenous disabled artist and musician, and I’d love to talk to her about her recent solo art exhibition. And finally, I’d invite disabled musician Eliza Hull to the table. She’s a friend and her music is truly beautiful. We could listen to it while we eat!
What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?
I’m currently reading a non-fiction book called Heroes, Rebels and Innovators: Inspiring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from history by Karen Wyld and Jaelyn Biumaiwai, which should be in every school library and classroom in Australia. I’m listening to the Original Storytellers playlist on spotify, curated by journalist Rhianna Patrick. It’s regularly updated with music by Indigenous Australian artists, and it’s where I find a lot of new music to add to my ’favourites’ playlist. I’ve just started watching New Gold Mountain on SBS, about the Gold Rush.
How would you describe your fashion sense?
I wear a lot of clothing designed by disabled activists and creators. I love a good t-shirt slogan. My favourite is one that says ’The Future is Accessible’, designed by Annie Elainey.
Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life?
I have a cat named Rainbow. I’ve always had cats. I have chronic pain, and when I’m in the middle of a pain flare, a cat that likes to curl up on my lap makes life a lot more bearable.
If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?
I’d make a brothy veggie soup! I always have some in the freezer. It’s comforting, and reminds me of the soups my grandma made. I like to dice the veggies up super small so my kids will eat it.
Where is your dream holiday destination?
My partner and I lived on the Sunshine Coast for a while, on Gubbi Gubbi land, and I dream of going back there for a holiday with the kids!
What were you like as a kid?
I had a mostly happy childhood. I had three really lovely siblings growing up, and they’re my best friends now. My mums were very interested in politics and what was going on in the world, so our family would often talk about big ideas and issues at the dinner table together. We were encouraged to think for ourselves. I did have a rough few years when I was diagnosed with cancer and had my leg amputated. I read a lot of books while I was in hospital, and they were a great comfort and escape from that difficult reality.
What is your favourite colour and why?
Purple and pink! I tried dying my hair pink one day and finally felt like myself when I looked in the mirror. I feel the same way with purple hair.
Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert?
I’m definitely an introvert. My perfect day would be spent reading and drinking a nice cup of coffee by a window, while it pours rain outside.
