How did you get started in bridge? At what age? Who from?
At age 30 I went with a few of my friends to learn bridge thinking that this would be fun. My first real bridge teacher and inspiration was Craig Gower in South Africa.
What do (did) you do professionally?
I was a professional ballerina, following which I owned my own ballet school. I was also an international ballet examiner.
Who is your partner and for how long? Longest partnership?
My current playing partner is Helena Dawson in ladies team. I also play with Peter Buchen and Craig Gower.
If you had a choice who would you like to play with? Australia and Internationally- living or dead?
I would love to play with Zia. He is the most fascinating and funny bridge player I’ve ever met. Yes, he came to South Africa and I have an amazing and very amusing memory of him!!
In your playing career, what is the bridge success that has the most meaning for you?
To have represented Australia in the world championships.
And your worst moment in bridge?
When having been given the power in my hand to win the match I proceeded to lose it.
What do you do between sessions to put you in the best frame of mind for the following session?
Try to relax, have a short rest or go for a swim if there’s a pool.
Do you have a favourite and least favourite convention?
I love conventions so don’t really have a least favourite. My best is switch Lebensohl with Rubensohl.
Would you prefer to have more system or less?
I don’t really mind. The more the better providing my partner and I can remember them!
What do you do to improve your game?
I like to watch the best players on vugraph. I read bridge books and I like learning from my bridge peers and partners.
Favourite bridge book?
Secrets of expert card play by David Bird and Tony Forrester
What interests or hobbies do you have besides bridge?
I enjoy physical exercise and am at the gym most mornings.
I also love taking care of my grandchildren.
What is the number one thing that bridge has done for you as a person and for your life?
Bridge has kept me stimulated and challenged. Just when you think you’ve got it you realise you don’t have it!. It’s a never ending mystery. It has taught me to deal with many different situations and people in life.
Bridge Results and Awards
National Titles
Winner and runners up in many national tournaments at Summer Festival in Canberra and Spring Nationals in Sydney.
State Representation
Represented NSW in women’s teams on several occasions and now also in seniors team.
International Representation
Australian Women’s team 2019 Asia-Pacific, Singapore
Australian Women’s team 2019 Venice cup, Wuhan China
Australian Women’s team 2023 Asia-Pacific, Hong Kong
Australian Women’s team 2023 Venice cup, Marrakesh Morocco
