My journey with Clocked Out and Early Warning System began thanks to Vanessa Tomlinson. She invited me to be part of these projects, and her support has been incredible since the very beginning of my life in Australia, which started in October 2002.

I still remember my first Christmas here—Vanessa kindly invited me to her home. The streets were quiet, almost like a ghost town, with very few buses running and no one walking around. I assumed everyone was enjoying Christmas with their families at home. Vanessa welcomed me warmly and helped me adapt in so many ways.

Back then, I was a percussion student, and I also babysat Vanessa’s children. Over time, she became not only a mentor but a lifelong friend. I feel truly lucky to have crossed paths with her. Vanessa has a strong and positive heart—sometimes delicate and fragile—but always deeply inspiring. She is an amazing human being to know.

I’ve shared many wonderful experiences with her: in percussion, in family life, at parties, and on trips like PASIC and the Transplanted Roots Percussion Symposium. Playing music with her has always been a joy.

I also can’t forget to mention Erik Griswold, who has been equally amazing to me. I love his compositions, and I feel so fortunate to live in the same town as Clocked Out, Vanessa, and Erik. Their presence has enriched my musical life in countless ways.