Mike was born at an early age and as a youngster dreamed of becoming a fireman, but instead he chose a different career path and decided to put out fires in the competitive world of advertising.

He is now one of Australia's most highly regarded (and awarded) creative people, and at various times occupied the post of Creative Director at several multi-national advertising agencies, where he has been responsible for many icons of Australian advertising. He has also worked overseas with stints in London, New York, Jakarta, Hong Kong and Singapore.

His most recognised campaign was the launch of ‘Oh what a feeling' for Toyota some 25 years ago, and he has also won many awards including a Gold Lion at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival for one of his commercials.

Mike started his own advertising agency over 15 years ago, and he now splits his time working from home in Woodend and his office on St Kilda Road in Melbourne. He is married to Anne who runs the shop Zappa-do in Woodend, with lots of great things for baby and you!

They moved to Woodend from Brighton nearly 10 years ago in search of a much needed ‘tree change', after falling in love with Central Victoria from their holiday home in Daylesford.

Mike joined the CFA soon after arriving in Woodend when he realised he knew very little about living in one of the ‘world's most dangerous bushfire areas', and to also become involved in the local community. "As a newcomer to Woodend, it was a great way to quickly get to know people from the area. And I finally got to realize my childhood dream of becoming a fireman!.

"I love the many friendships I have made within the CFA, and working with such a diverse range of people. It is amazingly rewarding to give something back to the community and help provide a much needed and invaluable service".

His most memorable moments thus far in the CFA have been attending several strike teams at major fires around Victoria, "where you really to get to witness what a great organisation the CFA is".

Mike is currently 1st Lieutenant with Woodend CFA and is the author of a regular article in the Woodend Star.

In what spare time he has, Mike looks after his property and is writing the definitive history of the automobile entitled ‘The AutoBiography'.

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