Meet Stedo | A Lifelong Local with a Passion for Change
As I prepare to embark on this exciting journey in the upcoming local government election, I am thrilled to share more about myself, my personal journey, and why I am passionately committed to serving our incredible community. Orange has been my home for most of my life, and it's more than just a place on the map—it’s where my heart is deeply rooted. My love for this town and its people has only grown stronger over the years, and it fuels my dedication to making our community the best it can be.
My story begins with family—a blend of cultures that shaped who I am today. My mum’s parents emigrated from Trieste, Italy, while my dad’s family hails from England and Ireland. Growing up in Orange, I’ve always felt a profound connection to the town’s rich history and dynamic culture. This blend of backgrounds has shaped my perspective and instilled in me a deep appreciation for our community’s diversity and heritage.
Sports have been a cornerstone of my life, shaping not only my personal experiences but also my sense of community. I'm a proud Life Member of the Orange City Cricket Club, having only missed one full season since '87-'88. My love for the game, and the camaraderie it brings, is something I’ve carried with me through thick and thin. Speaking of challenges, I’ve faced a few that could have ended my story far too early. At nine years old, I was in a car accident that ruptured my spleen, leading to one of the first microsurgeries in the country. Later in 2009, I spent ten weeks in a coma due to Influenza A, later diagnosed as Swine Flu. These experiences taught me the fragility of life and the importance of resilience. They’re why I take health and well-being so seriously today.
Rugby Union also played a big role in my life, both as a player for Orange Emus and later as a coach for seniors and juniors. Now, I enjoy being an “Old Boy” on the hill, reminiscing about the good old days—though perhaps with a bit of embellishment!
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Beyond sports, my career took me into the world of media as the former editor of Orange City Life Magazine and the co-publisher of Live Central West Magazine. These roles allowed me to connect with our community on a deeper level, sharing stories that matter to the people of Orange.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats, each teaching me valuable lessons. It took time, but I’ve come to realise that my experiences don’t define me—rather, they’ve equipped me to help others. Today, as a Mindset, Mental Health, and Accountability Coach, I’ve had the privilege of speaking to individuals and businesses across the globe, both in person and online. And recently, I proudly accepted the role of Facilitator for Men’s Behaviour Change at Housing Plus, a challenging yet fulfilling opportunity to drive growth and positive change.
I’m also passionate about the connection between physical movement and mental health. A few years ago, I discovered the importance of “lifting stuff” for my own well-being. The science behind movement and mental health is clear and compelling, and I’m always eager to share that knowledge with others.
As I look ahead to the election, my focus is on contributing to the growth and well-being of our community. With the experiences I’ve gathered and the lessons I’ve learned, I’m ready to bring my passion for mental health, resilience, and positive change to the council. Together, we can make Orange an even better place to live, work, and thrive.