I was "born and bred" in Cook's Hill and, from 1957 until 1967, attended Cook's Hill School. 

In 1988, I completed a Bar and Dining Room course and in 1993, I attended Newcastle Technical College where I completed a Shorthand course. In 1996, I attended evening classes at Newcastle Technical College and obtained Accounting Clerk qualifications. During 1968 to 1981, I was employed in a variety of work. I trained for approximately 12 months in nursing, sales assistant in retail outlets and delivering bread. From 1982 until my retirement.in 2009 I worked for Hunter Area Health Service (HAHS), later to be known as Hunter New England Area Health Service (HNEAHS). I was initially employed in the catering and housekeeping departments before I accepted the position as executive secretary to the Director of Finance at Area Headquarters. I held that position for several years before transferring to a position of Management Accounting clerk/ Finance Officer in their central finance department.

In 1997, I joined Muree Golf Club as a seven day member although, working full time until 2009 limited my golfing to Saturday's and the very occasional Tuesday. Prior to joining Muree, I was also a member of Karuah Golf Club. Whilst I don't have management skills or served on a Board in any capacity, I was the Ladies Handicapper for two years, a position I resigned from because of a seven month caravanning sojourn around Australia. Currently, I hold the position of Ladies vice President. I believe other Muree Board Directors are far more qualified than me in the financial aspect of running Muree Golf Club. I am also fully aware that there are many responsibilities and tasks that all Directors need to undertake. These are responsibilities and tasks that I fully accept.  I feel that I am able to provide representation and communication for the Muree Ladies and Muree Vets. This is an area that I believe can be better managed.