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CSIRO Education enquiries: Program enquiries: | Sports Technology and Applied SciencesChris Anderson, Stunts Coordinator - Special Effects 
Chris has been involved in stunts for TV and movies for around 30 years. As a kid, he loved driving and he decided he would get in less trouble if he found a job crashing cars safely! He has worked as a stunt man in a huge list of movies, including Mad Max. Now Chris works as a stunt coordinator, which means he coordinates and choreographs stunt sequences for stunt doubles and actors. His is a very responsible position, as he is in charge of the safety of the stunt people, actors and crew as well as managing the budget for the stunts and finding the right people for the stunt work. Chris says that his work doesn't make him a lot of money, but he enjoys taking ideas out of someone's head and seeing them through to reality. "It still brings a smile to my face every day." ^TOP Duncan Banks, Windsurfer - Board Sports Episode
The holidays during summer were his favourite because he could teach windsurfing in the morning, then when the wind got up in the afternoon, go out himself. He graduated in 2004 and got a job as a civil engineer. Most Civil Engineers work in just one area such as water, transport, structures or geotech, but Duncan has been lucky enough to work on projects involving all of these disciplines. Whilst at Uni he also competed in the Australian University Windsurfing Championships and won his weight division. Windsurfing isn't the only water sport Duncan does; he also does a bit of surfing and kite surfing - depending on the weather conditions. Not to mention tennis, golf and riding to work. It is a wonder he has time for engineering. ^TOP Simon Bobeldyk, Diving Instructor, Nautilus SCUBA - Water Sports Episode
The best part of his job? The diving of course! He gets to experience a world that not everyone gets to see and as well introduce others to it. He has also been lucky enough to do some travelling with diving and seen some amazing places and animals. From day to day he does a range of things, such as giving advice to people about equipment, learning to dive and dive travel in Australia and overseas. There is also equipment maintenance, teaching people to dive or doing specialist training himself. ^TOP Derek Boothroyd, Track and Field State Performance Coordinator, Victorian Institute of Sport - Sports Technology 2 Episode
Because there are so many events within the broader scope of Track and Field, no two days are the same for Derek. But, working with a group of highly motivated athletes and making a contribution to their success makes the job really enjoyable. And as if that wasn't enough, Derek still competes in Triathlon over summer so he keeps active by swimming, cycling and running whenever he can. ^TOP David Bourke, State Hockey Player and Physiologist, NSW Institute of Sport - Sports Body Episode
This led to his involvement in the Institute's Applied Research Program. He really enjoys working with athletes who are continually trying to improve their performance and learning about the human body and how it responds to exercise. ^TOP
Anthony Brown, Australian Slalom Team Member, Penrith Whitewater - Water Sports Episode
In Australia kayaking is not funded as well as in the UK so he has to work and train, although luckily he works at Penrith Whitewater organising and coordinating the Junior Development Program and he can still train full time (about 30 hours a week). The sport of kayaking is pretty unique in that every course design is different it means that a whole range of people win each event. The sport is not restricted to one particular height, weight or style, so it appeals to a broader range of people. ^TOP Nabil Codman, Category Development Manager - Deodorants (Sweat Expert), Unilever - Grossology Episode
A typical day can involve planning new product development work, evaluating the performance of new products and meeting with project partners. So how does a sweat expert work up a sweat? Nabil's favourite ways are with a game of soccer or a round of golf. ^TOP Peter Coles, International Research and Development Manager, Rip Curl - Clothing Technology Episode
Being an avid surfer gives Peter an insight in to what a surfer needs in a wetsuit, and he is just as passionate now about surfing as he was about playing footy as a 13 year old. And he gets to impart his knowledge into the wetsuit design/development/production phases of the Rip Curl wetsuit business, something he also loves. ^TOP
Captain Paul Considine, Pilot and Training Captain, Virgin Blue - Flight Episode 
Paul has been flying for over 20 years, the last 16 years being professionally. He started training for a private pilot's licence completed his training up to commercial pilot's licence. Because of the expense involve in training (around $100 000) most pilots have had two careers. Paul's was in television, but he worked with solicitors, ex policemen, electricians, plumbers, nurses and a many others. The great part about being a pilot is travel, being able to have breakfast in Perth and dinner in Mackay is pretty unique. As a Training Captain, he also enjoys training pilots on how to fly the Boeing 737. It is very satisfying working with a pilot to assist them through their training and seeing them pass their line check at the end. When he is not flying around the country, he and his 2 sons (fans of Scope) are working on converting an old school bus into a camper. The "maiden voyage" is planned for later this year! He is also working to finish his Masters degree in Aviation Management. ^TOP Shannon Cook, Surfboard maker - Surfing Science Episode
Even though he has been doing the job for 8 years he still really enjoys it, particularly the relaxed work environment. Each day is different because no two boards are the same, sometimes he'll be shaping, or sanding, or painting or glazing. And what do you think a surfboard maker does when he's not at work? Goes surfing of course. ^TOP
Fiona Crawford, Australian Women's Softball Team - The Games 
Fiona started playing softball at the age of 5 because her two older sisters played and she copied everything they did! From there, it has been a journey of hard work, self belief and a passion to succeed. She loves the constant challenge to better herself but most importantly having the opportunity to represent Australia. As well as being a member of the Australian Softball team, she also has a job as a Human Resources Manager, because not all sports people can be full time professionals. So what does a day involve? Wake up 5.30am , gym session from 6am - 7am , work from 8am - 5.30pm then training from 6.30pm - 8.30pm . Then wake up and do it all again!!!! ^TOP Luke Czabar, Surveyor, I-SiTE - Light episode
The combination of the two means you get the best of both worlds. His job also involves quite a bit of travel too, and he has been to some really interesting places with work. To get where he is, Luke studied for fours years doing a degree in Geoinformatics and Surveying. This course covered the fields of mapping (traditional cartography, computer based Geographic Information Systems or GIS, and remote sensing) and measurement science. When he has a spare moment, he enjoys being an Aussie Rules umpire or doing athletics. ^TOP Steven Daddow, Down Hill Skateboarder - Extreme Sports Episode
Steven has skateboarded since he was eleven. "I saw downhill skateboarding on TV and thought I could do it. I bought a board and skated by myself for nearly a year before joining up with some other downhill skateboarders on the Gold Coast." In 2003, Steven decided to try his luck in international competition Downhill Skateboarding (Speedboarding) and got to number 3 in the world. Steven says that downhill skateboarding is not for everyone. "It's not that easy, it costs money and it takes a lot of guts to do it. It also involves a lot of up hill walking!" But he loves it anyway! Steven also works as a stuntman in movies, and in his spare time loves surfing and snowboarding. "I work to play. I love it!" ^TOP Will Davidson, V8 Supercar Driver, DICK JOHNSON RACING - Racing Car Science
It used to be a pure hobby, he just loved driving fast! Of course the adrenaline is still there but it's now his job and there is a lot more pressure involved. No matter what, the cool thing about his job is that it never ever gets boring! He is a confessed speed freak, so he also enjoys dirt bike riding and jet skiing. His job is very physical so he also spends a lot of time keeping fit with cycling, swimming and tennis. For a typical race meeting he arrives on the Wednesday prior and has two full days of sponsor commitments. Then the race weekends are full on: in the car, at engineering meetings or having more promotional commitments. ^TOP Richard Dean, Gymnastics Coach - Sports Body Episode
"Gymnastics is a long term sport which involves many years and hours per week of training. As a result, the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing students develop from children into young adults and being able to input into their development not only as a coach but also a mentor." Essentially, his role as a gymnast coach is to develop a gymnast to the best of his and their ability, by a process of constant analytical feedback based upon their performance and a general standard of performance. Currently he is juggling work and full-time study as he is almost half way through a degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine). So there isn't much spare time. ^TOP Mark Ellis, Designer, Headzone - Sports Technology Episode 
Mark has put 17 years experience coaching waterskiing to good use in his current role as inventor and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Headzone. He was coaching world-class waterskiers, but was becoming frustrated at not being able to communicate easily. He relied on hand signals from the boat, and had to stop anytime he wanted to explain something to his students. So Mark designed a better system - a helmet with a UHF radio that would allow him to communicate directly with his students, so they could react and improve instantly. He found it worked, and eventually set up his company to sell the technology to other coaches like him. Mark says the transition from coach to CEO wasn't as hard as he expected. "I use the same set of skills in this job," he says. "It's just like taking a waterskiing student to the world titles, except the company is my student." ^TOP Dr. Rene Ferdinand, Biomechanist, University of Sydney - Sports Body Episode
He conducted research in golf biomechanics around the same time, before successfully applying for a position at the University of Sydney to head cricket and golf biomechanics research programmes. A typical day there could include giving lectures, taking laboratories, doing university administration jobs, negotiating research contracts, supervising postgraduate research students, and conducting specialised research. Despite researching the subject Rene still enjoys playing and coaching cricket (he is a professional cricket coach too). ^TOP Amanda France, Skateboarder - Extreme Sports Episode
Amanda says it's a pretty demanding sport. "I've been knocked out a couple of times and I have been sacked, which is when you land with your legs either side of the rail. That happened a few months ago and it really hurt. I have rolled my ankles heaps as well. When I knocked myself out on a rail in Caloundra, that was definitely the most painful." Amanda's obviously been up close and personal with gravity and other forces, and she's hoping to continue her skateboarding science discoveries in overseas competitions in the future. "I haven't been anywhere yet so I would love to go." ^TOP John Fox, Explosives Expert - Special Effects
After high school, John completed an apprenticeship in electronics, and he also had an interest in mid-nineteenth century America. Through chance and good fortune, John has found a career that combines these two different interests - the explosives he uses require a knowledge of electronics to set the charges safely, and his weapons work on period films has drawn on his historical knowledge. John is very conscious of the important role he has to keep everyone safe during weapons and special effects work. "It is essential for the cast, crew and public involved in TV and film production to have safety as the number one priority. This is one of the 'on set' Armourer's roles." ^TOP Rebecca Gilmore, Assistant Coach NSW Institute of Sport Diving Team - The Games Episode
After working in this industry for some time, she was offered the position as Assistant Diving Coach with the NSWIS (New South Wales Institute of Sport), where she has been for 10 months. She says that the best part about her job is working with aspiring athletes and witnessing their skill development on a daily basis, not to mention the interstate and international travel. Training sessions happen twice daily, 6am to 8am (strength and conditioning, flexibility and land somersaults) and 3pm to 7pm (largely involving repetition of dives in the water). In between all that, she is studying for a masters of primary teaching. ^TOP Jackie Graham, Surfing Instructor - Surfing Science Episode
This also involved completing a bronze medallion and advanced resuscitation certificates through a surf life saving club, as well as 25 hours of shadow coaching and 5 hours of shadow judging before she actually became qualified. Her favourite part of any surfing lesson is the buzz she gets from watching people get excited when they first stand up. Apart from teaching the basics of surfing she also teaches people surf awareness and safety, describing rips, waves, tides, sweeps and dangers. She is also keen on acting so maybe the next time you see her will be in a surfing movie. ^TOP Detective Sergeant Peter Hennessy - Fingerprint Expert - Forensics Episode
A typical day at work involves going to crime scenes and conducting examinations for fingerprints, spending time in the office identifying fingerprints, and going to the morgue to obtain fingerprints from deceased persons. Peter initially joined the NSW Police in 1988 and completed 3 years of General Duties. He then transferred to the Forensic Services Group and after studying fingerprints for 5 years and after passing a number of exams, he became a Fingerprint Expert in 1996. He most likes the satisfaction that comes with examining a crime scene for fingerprints and by analysing the evidence that he gathers to identify the person responsible. ^TOP Johnny Henson, Wakeboarding Instructor - Board Sports Episode
Johnny started wakeboarding around 11 years ago, his family was a very keen water-ski family and went boating all the time when he was young. From there he went in a competition and became sponsored at the age of 12. What he really enjoys about his job is watching people become so stoked when they learn something new. That vibe that occurs when a new trick is landed whether it's a new flip or just riding for the 1 st time is just awesome. He also loves riding his 50 and going wakeskating. ^TOP Jane Holland, Environmental Specialist, CRL - Mining Episode
Her job involves monitoring environmental values on the island, including water quality, flora and fauna surveys and visiting site where necessary to check operational impacts on the environment. But because she lives on an island she spend most of her spare time at the beach with her pup, surfing, travelling, playing golf, listening to live music, snowboarding, and just enjoying the island. ^TOP Natasha Holland, Principal Planner, Brisbane City Council - City Science Episode
For her, Brisbane is an exciting place to work at the moment because there is so much development. There is a fantastic range of work which is really interesting, such as shopping centres, massive subdivisions, industrial developments and residential towers. She works with a great team and gets to work with lots of different professionals, like engineers, architects, landscape architects, ecologists, and environmental scientists, every day. On her days off she loves going to the beach or doing a bit of yoga. ^TOP Cheyne Horan, ex-world surf champ - Sports Technology Episode Cheyne is a world champion surfer, who has been surfing since he was ten. His dad was an Australian speed skating champion, but Cheyne focused on other sports - at one stage he won both a surfing and a skateboarding title in the same year! Cheyne has competed in surfing competitions all over the world, but now focuses on coaching professionals and teaching beginners. He takes classes through his surf school in Queensland, and has also made two 'learn to surf' DVDs. Cheyne also has a focus on innovation. He worked with Ben Lexcen to design a new keel for surfboards, and is the first surf school in Australia to use the Headzone http://www.headzone.com.au coaching helmet. ^TOP Richard Jameson, Snow Sports Training Coordinator, Perisher Blue - Ski Science Episode
As a training co-ordinator he writes and implements the training program for all ski and snowboard instructors at the largest ski resort in the southern hemisphere. He also teaches private lessons and writes instructional articles for Skiing magazine. But when the snow is melted in Australia? You'll find Richard skiing and teaching on the slopes of near Lake Tahoe, California. ^TOP Clint Jensen, Skate Designer - Sports Technology Episode 
Clint was an Australian representative speed skater who moved into skate design to fill a hole in the market. When he started out, his fellow speed skaters had to wait up to a year for custom-made skates as there were so few manufacturers around the world (and only one in Australia, who was about to move overseas). Clint started off making skates for former team-mates like Stephen Bradbury for free, "just to help them out". His skates were shown to the Canadian speed skating team, who bought two pairs and proceeded to win gold medals in them - and Clint's company, the Revolutionary Boot Company, took off. Clint says that there are some lessons he learned as a professional athlete that have helped him in his business. "You learn when to rest and when to put your head down and go for it," he says. "It's important to stay focused on your final goal, just as you do when you are training for any sport." ^TOP Mark Kennedy, Development Coach, AFL Queensland - Ball Sports Episode
This means travelling around to schools to run clinics (Auskick) and organising volunteers and coaches to ensure the future of Australia's own ball sport. ^TOP Kira Llewellyn, World Champion Bodyboarder - Board Sports Episode
She thinks the best part of what she does is being at the beach and keeping active. She gets to travel the world doing what she loves and meets new people. Mostly she wakes up early and heads to the surf, or if there is none, she does some training, organises her schedule, catches up with friends and maybe even does a little yoga. She is also keen on photography and snorkelling. ^TOP Dylan Longbottom, Billabong Adventure Division Surfer - Extreme Sports Episode
Dylan specialises in surfing big waves, particularly big tubes. He recently won the 'Monster Tube Award' in the Billabong XXL surfing awards, which goes to "the surfer who catches and rides the most radical tube ride of the year". In fact he was the only Australian nominated for the award that year! Dylan's award-winning ride took place at Shipstern Bluff, on the southern tip of Tasmania. ^TOP Ben Lukoszek, Skateboard Innovator - Extreme Sports Episode
Ben first developed the truck nearly five years ago when he was 14 and is now working hard to bring the product to market. Running a business is exciting work for Ben and each day is different. He is constantly being confronted with new and exciting challenges which require a lot of creative thinking. Ben says the skills he learnt in Year 11 and 12 Physics are really useful in his work. "Developing a new product is not a matter of just sitting down and coming up with some great idea. It is nearly always the result of being confronted with a problem, understanding what you are trying to achieve and working your way through to a solution. These are skills which I love using and are used every day in science." ^TOP Ed Mahon, Supervisor of Ski Patrol, Mt Buller - Ski Science Episode
A typical day for a ski patroller at Mt. Buller starts at 8am when they head out and check the ski runs to make sure they're safe. At the end of the day they do a "sweep" of the ski slopes to make sure everyone gets safely back to the village. Ed started off as a lift operator then worked as a supervisor in the Lift Operations department before he was offered a position as a full time ski patroller. He's also learning to surf but currently is more like a cork in a washing machine than Kelly Slater. ^TOP Jennifer Manning, Sports Scientist - The Games Episode 
While doing a Bachelor of Science-Human Movement Studies (Hons) Jennifer undertook work experience in the Biomechanics Department at the Australian Institute of Sport. Having thoroughly enjoyed this work, she set about getting as much experience in the field of biomechanics in elite sports.Since starting at the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) she has worked with various sports including water polo and rowing. Her current focus is athletics and cycling. One of the challenges she really likes is being able to solve problems in an athlete's physical technique using scientific principles (like Newton 's Laws of Motion) and by using heaps of great equipment. She is also a pretty keen sportsperson too, but doesn't like to compete with the QAS athletes (in case she shows them up, right?). Some days are spent in the lab, others on the track so it is always interesting. ^TOP Matt May, Water Skier, Sea World - Water Sports Episode 
Matt started skiing before the age of two. His mother and uncle were professional skiers back in the 1960s and 70s, and Matt has trained non stop his whole life to achieve many accolades in water skiing. He has also been fortunate to travel all around the world doing shows and competitions, and has always had a drive to ski and to get better. ‘I guess I loved the challenge of the sport. There are many disciplines to excel at. I think I also like skiing because I have been able to have success on a high level,’ Matt says. A typical day for Matt is writing the show schedules, organising rehearsals throughout the day, a bit of office work and ultimately skiing two shows for Water Ski Wipeout. Outside of his work he like to take to the air in a different manner, on a hang-glider. ^TOP Peter McCabe, Carpenter and Field Guide - Antarctica Episode 
After completing his carpentry trade, Peter moved to the UK and worked in London as a carpenter for one year. Upon his return to Australia, he worked as a subcontractor and it was then that he met a fellow tradesperson who had just returned from the Antarctic. With keen interest he applied for a position and ended up working at Casey for one year and Davis for two months. At home he is a regular rock climber and also enjoys hiking trips, so the job was a perfect fusion of his work and outdoor interests. Although primarily employed as a carpenter he managed to occasionally work as a field guide for visitors to the stations. What he loves about working down here is the diversity that every day holds. Some days he might be working in a remote field hut fixing a broken door, and other days he might be assisting science staff in the penguin colonies counting penguins for their population records. Every day is an adventure, and always new and interesting.^TOP Shannon McGuckin and Benjamin Gough - F-111 Pilot and Navigator, RAAF - Human Transport Episode 
Shannon joined the RAAF after high school. Following initial officer training, combat survival training and aviation medicine training, he started six months of basic flying training. Then came nine months of advanced flying training which culminated in him receiving his wings as a RAAF pilot. As he was posted to fly fast jets, another nine months of introductory fighter training on the Hawk 127 was then required. After a further year flying the Hawk, he was posted to the F-111. The best part of the job for Shannon is that it challenges him every day, although he also quite enjoys flying up the coast at 100 feet and 600 miles an hour too. After joining the Air Force Ben completed Officer training and from there he undertook a navigators course. He spent one year flying on the Hawk 124 jet trainer before being posted to Brisbane to fly the F-111. He thinks flying around low and fast in a supersonic bomber is fantastic, but also enjoys the challenges that he faces each day and the sense of achievement when all the hard work pays off in a job well done. For both of them, the day starts with morning brief at 8.15 am where the day’s flying operations are discussed, weather is analysed and jet serviceability checked. From there, planning will usually begin for the mission that will be flown that afternoon. This process will take around three to four hours depending on the complexity of the scenario and mission. If they are lucky there will be some spare time for a bite of lunch then it’s time to brief the mission that has just been planned with the crews who will be flying it; the mission itself will normally take between two and three hours. On return from flying they normally spend about an hour debriefing and by then it is usually around 5.00 or 6.00 pm so it’s time to head home. ^TOP Craig McPhail, Aquatic Supervisor, Dreamworld - Water Park Science Episode 
When Craig McPhail joined a surf lifesaving club in 1997, he never imagined he would have a hand in opening one of the world’s most technologically advanced water parks! It was during beach patrol when Craig saved a young girl from drowning when he realised what he wanted to do with his life. After completing a course to become a Bronze Medallion Instructor and advanced Resus (oxygen) Instructor, Craig worked as a lifeguard before getting his dream job as one of WhiteWater World’s Aquatic Supervisors. In his spare time, Craig devotes his energy to staying fit and healthy. He enjoys going for a swim at the beach, taking a bike ride along the sand, playing sports and visiting Byron Bay for a bit of well-deserved relaxation. Craig also spends time throughout the year in Japan teaching surf education and raising awareness of surf safety.^TOP Mark Melhuish, Extreme Kitewinger - Extreme Sports Episode
Mark first got into kites during a trip to England. There he discovered 'power kites', which are like ordinary kites only much bigger - between 2m and 8.5m in size and big enough to lift a person off the ground! Mark became addicted to all things kite: kite buggying, kite surfing, kite snowboarding and kite mountainboarding. Back in Australia, Mark saw Kitewing on the Internet, and immediately ordered one to try out. He spent six months teaching himself how to use it, then started selling Kitewing around Australia . Mark says that Kitewing gives him a "workout you don't notice", providing lots of fun and a real adrenaline rush. However, he says that Kitewing is one of the safer extreme sports and can be learnt by anyone from 10 years and up "as long as you have a bit of coordination". ^TOP Elissa Morley, Senior Talent Search Coordinator, Australian Institute of Sport - Sports Body Episode
She went on to complete a Graduate Certificate in Sports Management, before eventually joining the Australian Institute of Sport as a Senior Talent Search Coordinator. Her job combines her interest in sports science with the opportunity to work with up-and-coming athletes. She loves being able to assist athletes to develop - from never having experienced a particular sport (and falling out of a kayak) to being a top level performer in that same sport after a couple of years of development. ^TOP Graeme Moore, Technical Representative - Sports Technology Episode
Graeme has a strong background for his job. He has a degree in Human Movement, specialising in Biomechanics, and also has a passion for running and sport in general. This means that he understands athletes’ needs in the design and functioning of their equipment, especially their footwear. To keep in touch with the latest adidas innovations, Graeme works extremely closely with his colleagues in Germany and the Asia Pacific region. Graeme also gets to travel Australia regularly and loves meeting, interacting with and educating people of all levels on how they can best benefit from using the right equipment for their sport. ^TOP Dr Stuart Morgan, Sports Scientist - The Games Episode
He gets to work at every level in the development of new technologies and ideas. Firstly, with coaches to build an understanding of the things they would like to be able to do, secondly as part of the creative processes involved in thinking of solutions, and finally developing and implementing these ideas in practice. This means he's often out at training sessions and matches, which is were he gets to do the "real" sports science work. Even when he's not working, he still is in a way. He coaches cyclists, runners and tri-athletes, which he both enjoys and helps him understand the things that coaches need and the technical problems they encounter. ^TOP Stuart McKerral, Firefighter - Fire Science Episode
Stuart says there's a long selection process to go through before you can become a firefighter. First there's a written exam to test your mechanical reasoning, mathematics and comprehension, then a group interview, a fitness test and a 'mini olympics' of practical skills such as climbing ladders and carrying hoses. If you're successful, you go on to do a college course, plus lots of on-the-job training. Stuart really enjoys his job. He likes the fact that every day is different and you never know what you will be doing. "And you're always helping people - they're pretty happy to see you," he says. ^TOP Colin Moore, Managing Director, Oil Response - Buoyancy Episode
To do the job, Colin is qualified to drive boats, forklifts, cranes and trucks, operate breathing apparatus, handle chemicals and dive. Why? Because there is no such thing as a normal day in this industry. The day might start with carrying out some planned maintenance on some of the equipment, but then he could receive a top priority call about an oil spill. All other work stops and they send out a team out to investigate. This is usually done from one of their response vessels. Other days might be spent conducting training courses where he shows people how to clean up oil spills and the types of equipment that are available. ^TOP Sean Muller, Sports Scientist, RMIT University - Sports Technology 2 Episode
His job involves a combination of teaching, research and leadership/administrative duties. He looks after Motor Control & Learning, which is to do with the performance, learning and retention of motor skills (e.g. catching a ball, striking a cricket ball) and Sport Coaching. In addition, he gives practical classes to students about how to teach cricket skills to high school students. Then there is his research, on the factors that differentiate an elite athlete from less skilled individuals. Recently, his research has examined how international level cricket batsmen can read a bowler's delivery before the ball has been released and how they compare to less skilled batsmen. ^TOP Tino Pangallo, Pyrotechnician, Foti Fireworks - Energy Episode 
Being a member of the family who owns the company, Tino was born and raised around fireworks. He studied Industrial Engineering (Manufacturing systems and Quality Control) before beginning fulltime work applying his studies to the industry. Tino likes the creative side of it all, always researching and developing new concepts to be ahead of their competitors. He also gets to travel around the world putting on displays. There are many jobs that are done on daily basis. As far as manufacturing in the factory, his job is to manage and supervise production of pyrotechnics items, which includes staff allocation around the factory, inspection and testing of products. He is involved in managing display preparation within the factory as well as organising staff allocation installations on display sites and choreographing and designing shows using a simulated firing program. ^TOP Matt Pini, Former Australian Rugby Union Player - Ball Sports Episode
Interestingly he has played for both Italy and Australia . These days he is still involved with the sport, as a coach of juniors and kicking coach for the Queensland Reds, and when he's not doing that you'll probably find him skiing, either on water or snow. ^TOP Greg Planner, Operations Manager, Champion Data - Numbers Episode
There is plenty of variety, which Greg likes - analysing the stats, dealing with the clients (AFL clubs, TV stations, radio stations, newspapers), overseeing most of the logistics and staffing and also being involved at the lower levels when they cover the under-16 and under-18 championships. ^TOP Kieren Pyke, Streetboarder - Board Sports Episode
He rides his board when ever time allows these days, at least once a week mainly on weekends. There has only ever been one competition in Australia and Kieren came fourth overall. He then went on an east coast tour from Melbourne to Brisbane with world champion streetboader at the time Brinton Gunderson the number 1 rider from Spain, sk8ting as many sk8 parks as they could in 2 weeks. But to pay the bills, Kieren is a carpenter. ^TOP Philo Saunders, Sports Physiologist - Sports Technology Episode
Philo is working on two areas of research. Firstly, he is studying the physiology of running, looking at how runners respond to changes in altitude and how to improve their immune system so they take less time off due to sickness. Secondly, Philo is working on a research project about the health benefits of physical activity in kids. Philo says he prefers working at the AIS to other research organisations because he can do more field work, getting involved in training sessions and sporting competitions. His research allows him to work with highly motivated athletes and world-class coaches, which he says has also improved his own training. "I like to push my body to the limits," he says. ^TOP David Sorenson, Kiteboarder and Instructor
The weather plays an important part in his job, so he checks it before calling any students and arranging times to meet. There is no better feeling than to see a student's smiling face after the first time they get up and riding, or when they land a new trick, and he thinks it is just great knowing that you helped them to achieve it. What to do in his spare time? Go kiteboarding of course, when the wind is up. If there is no wind there is also wakeboarding which is a great cross over sport. His company is at http://www.learntokitesurf.com ^TOP Luke Shakespeare - Rock Climbing Science - Young Scientists Episode
Luke is still a school student, and loves doing research as it is a great way to find out about things, and maybe finding new ways to help people. Luke would love to be a pilot, travel the world and see different aspects of many cultures. Also he has an aspiration to work in science and to work for NASA designing the interiors of space craft. What else is there in Luke's life? "I LOVE basketball and would love to play for Sydney in the future. I also secretly admire the strength and spectacle of Wrestlers." ^TOP Nic Svenson - CSIRO Industrial Physics - Numbers Episode
With her colleague, Dr Piers Barnes, Nic won the 2006 Ig Nobel prize in mathematics for calculating the number of photographs you must take to (almost) ensure that nobody in a group photo will have their eyes closed. Nic has a Bachelor of Science with Honours in science communication from Murdoch University in Perth. If you want to know what she sounds like, and you live in Sydney, you might hear her on 1224 2RPH: a special purpose radio station where volunteers read newspapers, magazines and books for people who cannot see, handle, or understand printed material. ^TOP Steven Van Aperen, Director, Australian Polygraph Services - Secret Agent Episode 
Steve was always interested in psychological profiling and wanted to visit the famed Behavioural Sciences Unit of the US Federal Bureau of Investigations in Quantico, USA. The visit inspired him to learn more about polygraph testing so he enrolled in a course at Western Oregon University then did an internship with the Los Angeles Police Department's polygraph unit. Steve likes the variety of work in his job. One moment he can be assisting the police in a homicide investigation and the next he can be conducting testing for a multi-million dollar fraud. Steve also does a lot of public speaking, such as media interviews and lectures on how to detect deception and identify whether someone is lying to you. When he needs a break from intense police work, Steve loves clearing his head by running, swimming and taking his dog for a walk. ^TOP Grant Vanderploeg, Sports Scientist, ACT Academy of Sport - Sports Technology Episode
Grant has always had a passion for sport and an interest in science. When he first left school, he completed a general biology degree at the University of Adelaide because at that time there were few specialised sports science courses available. Later on, he returned to Flinders University to complete Honours in exercise physiology and a PhD.Grant says he enjoys working with athletes and coaches and playing with the gadgets he uses to monitor sports performance (his favourite gadgets are the GPS systems. "I enjoy seeing athletes progress from a junior squad to representing their country. It's a nice feeling to think I had some input in that." ^TOP Tracey Veerhuis, Lift Supervisor, Mt Buller - Ski Science Episode
A typical day starts with the start up crew, an hour before the other lift operators, and if it snowed over night they have to climb up the lift towers to hit all the ice off (otherwise the wheels won't turn). After that they get the lifts turning, and set up each station. Then it is all aboard. ^TOP Anthony Ward, Flowrider Operator, Dreamworld - Water Park Science Episode
Anthony’s day starts with the all-important safety checks to ensure that the trampoline base of the perpetual wave machine and Flow Boards are in good condition. He teaches groups of up to 15 people how to body board for half an hour at a time, in between giving stand-up demonstrations. Not surprisingly, Anthony loves surfing in his spare time and this makes his job at FlowRider even more enjoyable (other job perks include being able to work outdoors and watch TV scientists make some pretty spectacular stacks). ^TOPMark Winterbottom, Race Car Driver - Motor Car Science Episode 
Mark is a driver with the Larcam-Orrcon racing team. Mark's dad, Jim, was also a race car driver; he won two Australian Sprintcar Championships. Mark began racing karts when he was nine and over the next ten years won an amazing ten Australian Championships and 19 State Championships. Mark moved on to the Formula Ford competition, then competed in the 2003 Konica Championship with tremendous success. He claimed five pole positions (four of which were in a row), four round wins and eight race wins. After being crowned the V8 Development Series Champion, Mark joined Stone Brothers Racing for the Sandown and Bathurst endurance races, where he ran inside the top ten for the majority of both events. In 2004, Mark graduated to the upper echelon of motorsport in Australia driving for Larkham Motor Sport in the V8 Supercar Championship aboard a brand-new Orrcon Racing Ford BA Falcon. ^TOP |
On Scope you saw Duncan Windsurfing, but during the rest of his time, Duncan is a Civil Engineer. During his time at university, he was working as a windsurfing instructor during the summer (having been a windsurfer since he was 12).
Simon grew up in Townsville and first learnt to dive there. After studies in Townsville he moved to Brisbane where he did more diving and progressed through his diving qualifications up to Advanced Instructor. He also worked weekends and holidays teaching diving.
Derek studied Sport Management at University while he was competing as a triathlete. He studied how to improve an athlete through various training methods, and fortunately he got a job in sport while still at university. He started at the VIS as the Triathlon Program Manager, moving to his current broader role 5 years later. But it is not just him, there is a team of people (sport medicine, sports science, nutrition) working with him to help the athletes improve.
An interest in sport science began through David's involvement in hockey (which he still plays) and grew from there. He completed a degree in Exercise and Sports Science and shortly after graduating was given the opportunity to do casual work with the NSW Institute of Sport. 
It all started while Anthony was still at school in the UK, where he joined the local canoe club and started training with all the other kids there. A couple of years later he was on the British Junior Team and kept progressing onto the Senior Team. He represented Great Britain at numerous World Cups and World Championships before coming to compete for Australia in 2004. He is Australia's number 1 and working towards the Beijing Olympics. 
While completing a Science degree, Nabil did some part time work at a small company involved in manufacturing deodorants and skin care products. He enjoyed his time there, learning about the different technologies. Soon after completing his degree he joined Unilever where he is involved with the development of new products right through from concept to reality. And this mostly means developing new products of deodorant. 
Peter started at Rip Curl at a young age and learnt about the wetsuit/manufacturing business as he went (it helped to have some great mentors within the company). Now days, he is mainly involved with p lanning production, R&D (research and development) of raw materials/finished wetsuits and quality control of manufactured products.
Making surfboards runs in Shannon 's family, his Dad owns the business where Shannon works. 
The favourite part of Luke's job doing 3-D laser scanning is that it is a technical profession that lets you get outside, as well as having some office based work too. 
Steven works as a carpenter most of the time, but whenever there is an opportunity to go downhill really, really fast, he grabs it!
Will grew up around motor racing and is a third generation racing car driver. It's all he ever dreamed of doing, but it's certainly been a long road to where he is now.
Richard has been involved in gymnastics for almost 20 years, initially as a competitive gymnast, then progressing to coaching.
Rene was a professional cricketer with an engineering background who then decided to combine these two interests, and many years later completed postgraduate studies in cricket biomechanics in New Zealand. 
17-year-old Gold Coaster Amanda France enjoys the simple things in life: acting, hair straighteners and throwing her body down instant death rails on a skateboard. She has been skateboarding since she was a kid: "I am a bit of a tomboy and everyone was doing it when I was growing up so it was just natural, I guess."
John has been working on feature films and TV series for over 25 years. His role as a film armourer [http://www.motionpicturearmourer.com] involves providing weapons and other specialised equipment for the actors in the film; creating special effects such as explosions and gunshot wounds; and making sure that all safety and legal requirements are met.
Rebecca's career path is far from conventional. She was an international diver (Olympic Bronze Medallist in 2000 and five-time World Cup Medallist) for nine years, before retiring in 2002. During her diving career she completed a commerce degree and then went on to become a Chartered Accounted.
Jackie has been surfing since she was 13. These days, teaching people how to surf is how she spends most of her time, and she loves it. To start her career she completed a Level One coaching course through Surfing Queensland. 
On the weekends you'll likely find Peter watching his favourite rugby league team, the Penrith Panthers, or maybe even doing a spot of boxing - but during the week it is a different story. 
A typical day for Johnny includes waking up at a really early and making sure that he has the right lunch and equipment for all the students for the day's lessons. He meets his students at around 8.30am, boards the boat, and goes wakeboarding. At the end of the day he has to pack up the boat and wash and clean it for next day.
Jane studied Environmental Management at University (for four years), during which she did a semester of work experience with Consolidated Rutile. After graduating, she worked casually (tree planting and taking mine tours) with CRL until the job of Environmental Specialist came up, which she promptly applied for and got. So now lives and works on a beautiful island, and the four-wheel sand driving around North Stradbroke isn't bad either.
Natasha studied town planning at the University of Queensland for four years and graduated with first class honours. While at uni she did lots of work experience with a private planning consultant and with councils. After graduating she started as a planning student, worked in a number of different teams doing lots of different planning work, both strategic, development assessment and appeal work (court work), to eventually become a Principal Planner in the Development Assessment South Team, which is her current job.
Starting out as a High School PE Teacher, Richard traveled to Canada and the USA during University holidays to work and ski. He fell in love with the sport and combined his knowledge of Biomechanics and Sports Science to ultimately become the Head Staff Trainer of Perisher Blue Snow sports School. Best of all he gets to do what he loves, and to share that passion with others. And, yes, most of his spare time is skiing too, along with a little hiking or mountain biking.
Mark played AFL for St Kilda and the Brisbane Bears (now Lions) before turning his hand to AFL development. He really enjoys being able to follow players from their beginnings to playing at the highest level. 
Kira was first introduced to bodyboarding through her two older brothers; she instantly loved it and hasn't stopped since.
Dylan grew up in a surfing family on the South Coast of NSW. His dad was a surfer too, and also built surfboards in Sydney in the 1970s and 1980s.
Ben is the co-director, along with his best friend Jack Hockley, of 
Mark's company, 
Elissa had an interest in sport and completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement Studies) with honours. After lots of work experience in a range of fields during her university years, she discovered that talent identification was the area for her - a great mix of sports science and sports management. 
Graeme is the 
It was with a bit of luck and a lot of work that Stuart ended up working at a Sports Institute. He used to work at a university, where his research allowed him to collaborate with the Victorian Institute of Sport. The collaborations blossomed and soon he found himself working for the VIS instead.
Stuart is a firefighter with the 
Colin worked for the Port Authority until it was privatised, which is when he started the Oil Response Company. The satisfaction of completing a successful cleanup following a spill incident is the part of the job that Colin finds most enjoyable.
Sean loves his cricket, and this makes his research all the more enjoyable. It all began with a Human Movement degree after which Sean worked his way through postgraduate studies at different Universities before returning to Melbourne to work at RMIT.
Matt has played rugby for 25 years, many of those as a professional rugby player. This means he has traveled the world meeting lots of great people, not to mention have a good time whilst doing his job. 
Greg started out doing stats in the coach's box on match days for St Kilda as well as editing all the videos for the coaches and players. He was asked to help Champion Data get their AFL program up and running at the start of 1996 and went full time three years later.
Kieren first got in to streetboarding when someone gave him a board to ride, and he eventually ended up it getting his own board. That was when he was about 17 and now he has been riding on and off for about 8 years.
Philo has found a great way to combine his interests with his career. Philo is a champion middle-distance runner (he is hoping to qualify for the 2006 Commonwealth Games) and also a sports physiologist at the 
Over 7 years ago, David walked in and asked for a job. He started as a sailboarding instructor, then one day had a go at kiting which he found easy and heaps of fun. He learnt how to do it so he could teach, he has also done an instructors course.
When asked how he got to where he is, Luke replied "Many hours of measuring, recording and describing data!" When asked "do all the experiments work", he replied, "No, of course not, there are many hours doing of experiments that go wrong as well as some going according to hypothesis". That is the fun of science, you don't always know what to predict.
Nic is a science writer with CSIRO Industrial Physics. As well as writing posters, brochures, magazine articles and web pages, a typical day is likely to see her trying to get the perfect photograph of a scientist at work.
Grant has been working at the 
Starting as a lift attendant at Mt Buller in 2000, Tracey has worked every winter since, and has been a lift supervisor for the last few years. The thing she likes most about her job is working in the outdoors and getting to snowboard everyday! Outside of that she enjoys going to the beach and surfing. 
After successfully auditioning to be a part of Dreamworld’s Entertainment Team in 1998, Anthony started a job he loved – he thought it could not get any better. But when Australia’s first FlowRider opened, Anthony decided he wanted to make his weeks of work a bit more interesting. As well as working on the stationary surf machine, Anthony also looks after Dreamworld’s many characters and performs in a Slime show.