There is more than cooking....!
I consider myself fortunate to have collaborated with incredible individuals, contributing to my journey. Living in diverse places has allowed me to learn new skills and share my knowledge. The businesses and communities I cherish are the spirit of teamwork and mutual support, fostering an environment where we can all thrive and give back.
Embracing an open mind opens the door to endless opportunities for learning. No matter how much I believe I know, there's always more to discover, and the desire never fades. It's a journey of continuous growth and exploration.
​
Separating private life and business is not easy. I am fortunate that my wife Celine, loves our work as much as I do. So business always seems to find a way into our private lives, which we don't mind. My parents were publicans, and I grew up living in a business (pub, bowling and function venue in Germany). There was no hiding, and soon I made work my lifestyle.
​
Here are some of the skills I have acquired throughout the years as a Chef, Manager, Business Owner, Trainer, Presenter, Salesman, Consultant, Limo Driver, Father, Husband, Son of Publicans, Tour Guide, Entrepreneur, living off-grid and of course as a Story Teller.
Off Grid
Living Off-Grid means living independently from public utilities.
Our Off-grid systems include solar/batterie power and generator backup, water collection and hauling, an enzyme bacteria sewage system and energy-efficient appliances.
One of my roles is to ensure these systems run smoothly, are properly maintained, and are used responsibly. This includes monitoring power and water usage, performing routine checks, and providing a comfortable, well-managed experience for guests and residents.
Swiss Army Knife
Living off-grid, managing and operating a business and more.
Living Off-Grid is certainly not everyone's cup of tea.
Since 2020 Celine and I have focused again on sharing our experiences in more remote locations like the Camel farm, Wilson Island, Rangelands Outback Camp and Nusa Lembongan (remote island off Bali, a small project we took privatly on completed early 2025)
These locations don't allow you to 'just call' the plumber, solar expert, mechanic, electrician or handyman/builder as you need them. A lot of these issues have to be fixed (temporary or permanent) right there and then.
It is the same owning and operating your own business (especially for example on North Stradbroke Island), as every dollar you spend is wisely weighed up and you end up doing a lot of work yourself.
Managing and operating a business, especially off-grid does not just involve cooking and hosting, but finding solutions for equipment breakdowns/installations, troubleshooting, constant maintenance and checks.
Every day something could go wrong and being prepared and hands-on helps tremendously.
​
Story Teller
Presenter, Ambassador, Sales, Tour Guide
I enjoy sharing knowledge and experiences. Talking about wildlife, flora, dinosaurs, stars, time and geology at Rangelands Outback Camp. About camels and their amazing products on the Farm, marine life and birds on Wilson Island and Straddie. I hosted numerous cooking classes over the years at James Street, private or in my own venues, and gave interviews on ABC radio, channel 9 or at food festivals, talking about the love for food, the amazing produce available and the venues I represent.
Promoting brands I place confidence in like BORA, Magimix, Thermomix and RoboCoupe.
Giving tours (Summer Land Camels, Rangelands etc.) talking about nature, animals, history and food.
And my favorite, after work sitting down, talking with and listening to your guests and fellow colleagues.
Photography
Photo, Video and Media
Something I always loved doing.
Eventually, in 2021 I managed to buy myself a new camera and some glass to restart one of my first passions. Taking photos and finding that perfect shot.
25 years ago I got into digital food photography for my first restaurant, knowing it would be a very good tool later in time when the world has caught up with the digital world and the internet.
Building my first website in 1999 and using digital footage was quite something at that time.
Canon are my go-to Cameras.
I have focused on wildlife, star-gazing and food for some time now and slowly started learning about interior photos, architecture, street photography and portraits.
Videography is something I started not long ago. Mainly with drones and mobile cameras or phones.
​
Hands on Consulting
New openings and exsiting businesses
When I meet people who are in need of some hospitality business consultation or need help in opening their first venture into the hospitality world, I like them to recognise me as one of their own.
Having a close look at the business, finance, marketing and operation is most important at this early stage. Exploring the possibilities, location and suitable themes.
Finding points of improvement in the operation, staffing (quality or quantity?), investigating the marketing plan and more until doable solutions are created and put into action.
Over 35 years of experience in all aspects of the trade and business gives me the tools to be a creative and affective help in achieving goals.
​
​
Technology
The future is here
My first computer was a Commodore C16 in 1984 and I was hooked.
Today I work with something a little more efficient.
Using mainly Apple products (MacPro, iPad Pro and iPhone) for data processing, communications, finance planning, reporting, drawing and much more.
Computers have become an extraordinary help and
​I enjoy the constant evolution of technology and love growing with it.
Using new technology in ovens, sous vide, Thermomix, mobile thermostats, security systems, recipe books and fridge temperature control systems (online), security systems, weather stations monitoring, wide covering wifi installations, remote air conditioner control and much more.
​
If used right it can make life easier.
​
​
Find at the link below some more info regarding computer skills.