I am the father and step-father of five grown boys and consider this and the fact I have lived in intentional community with several other families worth of kids growing up around me as one of the main triggers that initiated TRACKS.

A dentist for 30 years, I am from England and have lived in South Africa, Canada where two of my sons were born, and now after living here fifteen years, consider New Zealand my home.

My personal journey with mens work led me to the concept of Conscious Mentoring and 'Rites of Passage' (Initiation) over eight years ago. Since then I have also been interested in the concept of 'Eldership' in our modern society, growing a generational mens culture that supports the growth of healthy people.

I am an active Trustee of the Tui Spiritual and Educational Trust and I live in Tui Community, Golden Bay, with my partner Susan Jessie, our dog Maggie and several small fish.

I currently Chair the Nelson Tasman Youth Workers Collective and also have a seat on the National Council of the National Youth Workers Network Aotearoa.

The early years of my career were focused on ‘Detached’ models of youth work, engaging with marginalised young people on the streets and in mobile units. Detached work was challenging, unpredictable, exciting and largely about crisis intervention.

In 2001 I left England and street based youth work to explore New Zealand and contemplate different ways of working with young people and in particular young men. In Golden Bay I found an inspired and enthusiastic group of men in the conceptual stage of designing a Rites of Passage journey for their boys. That was in 2002 and Tracks has come along way since then.

In my opinion The Contemporary Rites of Passage model is one of the most potent and relevant approaches I have seen in terms of addressing the current needs of boys, young men, their families and communities. Its ability to educate and empower young men with the necessary tools and awareness to navigate the ‘Bridge of Adolescence’, redefine their relationships and move out into the world as confident, responsible young adults is unique. To see young men realising their potential and standing strong with a sense of purpose and direction, ready to contribute to society is extremely confirming and brings a sense of hope for our future. 

I feel privileged to be managing our organisation; I love the work, the people and the place. My goal is to develop Rites of Passage youth work throughout New Zealand and assist in raising awareness of this work, its relevance and effectiveness, right across the globe.

While travelling and working overseas I have had the chance to immerse myself in a number of different cultures, which broadened my horizon immensely.

I am a proud mother of twin daughters, who have now left the nest, but have benefited greatly from growing up in Golden Bay. During their younger years, I have been involved in a range of school initiatives, such as serving on the GBHS board of trustees for two terms, and being part of a range of other community & school projects.

I feel very strongly about providing young people with the best possible opportunities for personal growth, and feel privileged to have been invited to take part in the Tracks mission.

I am the father of Taimarama (born in july 2006) and Koa (born April 2008) and the Husband of Sacha. I am happy to be living at Tui Community with my family and the rest of the Tui whanau.

I have been intimately involved with the emergence of Tracks. Working with my father as Chairperson and co facilitator has been and continues to be hugely rewarding. We bring a special flavour to working with young men on the threshold to manhood as a father and son team.

One of my passions with Tracks has been to use video and photography to document our program, other similar programs and interviews with relevant authorities. This has been a tool for training and development, as well as being a networking tool to share this exciting work with the world.

I am proud to be a part of the evolution of an inclusive and creative culture working towards positive change in the world.

I have been employed as a probation officer, youth outreach coordinator, adolescent and family counsellor, student advocate and mental health worker.

I am committed to empowering young boys and men with the tools and awareness to allow them to grow in this world.

Eric's determination to encourage young people was a driving force behind the TRACKS model. Eric bequeathed part of his estate to support TRACKS development.

Generosity of spirit and substance will grow from his passing.