‘Rick’s diverse experience and background in all areas relating to human relationships together with his organisational skills plus his dedication and enthusiasm, qualifies and equips him well in his role as a marriage celebrant.’
Margaret May
former Federal MP

My (Rick’s) Background Story

I have resided at the southern end of the Gold Coast for over 30 years and after a rest from performing ceremonies and services in the early 1980’s, in 2004 I returned to this profession as I derive so much pleasure from sharing in the passion and excitement of a wedding ceremony.

As well as performing in the role of a Marriage Celebrant, I have provided PR, media and marketing expertise to many companies associated with the Gold Coast Tourism industry.
Surf Life Saving Queensland was my major client for 20 years and as a result of my developments of various safety/tourist initiatives, and winning a total of 4 Qld Tourism Awards and 3 Australian Tourism Awards, SLSQ was inducted into the Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame in 2004/2005. As a current part time employee of the Department of Defence, based at RAAF Amberley, I am responsible for strategic planning and special projects for Australian Air Force Cadet promotion courses and activities.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
1980 - 1985 School counsellor Palm Beach/Currumbin High School.
1985,1994/95 Motivation Seminar Organiser and Speaker 1000 students and unemployed at each session on the Gold Coast.
1988 - 2008 Tourism Development Manager - Surf Life Saving QLD
1988 - 2010 Reporter - 'Live' Surf Reports relayed to radio stations (Gold FM, SEA FM and River 949 FM)
1994 - 2004 Freelance Journalist - Australian News Syndicate
Media for Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter and Australian Airlines
1994 - Current Training Officer Strategic Planning/Special Projects, 2WG Australian Air Force Cadets, RAAF Amberley
2004 - Current Authorised Civil Marriage Celebrant

EDUCATION
CHC41502 Certificate 1V in Marriage Celebrancy
CHC42608 Certificate 1V in Celebrancy
Youth and Education Diploma - UCA
Diploma of Freelance Journalism - Australian College of Journalism
Diploma in Marketing and Business Management - RHSM
Negotiation and Communication Skills Course – Department of Defence

‘Creating beautiful and memorable occasions’