My so-called 'down time' is usually spent contributing in some way to my 'up time'. So when I place these 'personal interests' on a separate page, this is not into imply they are separate in my life. There are many aspects of my interest in BUDDHISM, QUEER/GENDER THEORY, SCIENCE FICTION, COSMOLOGY/ASTRONOMY, and SOCIAL ACTIVISM that intersects with my academic life.

Buddhism >>>>
Don't ask why I place Buddhism first. Perhaps it is because it features heavily in my life at present, when one is faced with many cross-roads one usual reverts to basic belief systems and centres of 'faith'. I became a practising Buddhist in 2002 (interestingly the same year I started my PhD), however, I guess I've been Buddhist all my life; I just didn't realise it. This is perhaps the most personal of my personal interests, so I shall not elaborate, yet, feel free to download an article I wrote a few years ago. It subsequently lead to an invitation to present at the 2003 Queers and Spirituality Conference as part of the Adelaide Feast Festival.

Queer/Gender Theory>>>>
To be expected this part of my interests is best articulated elsewhere, however, I will say that I am a firm believer of "THE PERSONAL IS POLITICAL". My personal journey of discovery in regards to my queer/gender identities are mapped out in my academic career. But let me digress and refer to my gendered and queer praxis. Such as wearing nail polish and occassionaly I can be found wearing leopard print high heels and perhaps a black dress; at graduation or my thirtieth birthday.

Science Fiction>>>>
Escapism at it's finest. Not surprisingly, science fiction is often cited as a forum within which we envisage a possible future 'better' than the present. While mostly restricted to Star Trek, there are moments when I enjoy Star Wars, Alien, Dune and the odd sci-fi series.

Cosmology/Astronomy>>>>
I don't get to talk about this one much, a very well kept secret. Not many people would know that I spend considerable amount of time reading about the origins of the universe, the physics of the universe and the philosophies that accompany it. Not sure if I totally understand what I read, but I enjoy it nonetheless.

Social Activism>>>>
As the 'Extracurricullar Activities' page will attest, i have spent a great deal of time volunteering in organisations/events that 'make a difference'. I have a few moments of pride where my intention to 'help' has been achieved, so i guess fifteen years of poverty is worth it.