Shane O'Connell
"Growing up, my father instilled in me some fundamental values — loyalty to family, a commitment to strong ethics, and the importance of supporting one's family through hard work."
Q: What values or principles have guided your journey, and how have they shaped who you are today?
Growing up, my father instilled in me some fundamental values—loyalty to family, a commitment to strong ethics, and the importance of supporting one’s family through hard work. These principles have significantly shaped my character, and my work ethic can be traced back to these foundational beliefs.
Q: Who has been the most influential person in your life, and in what ways have they impacted you?
Undoubtedly, my father has been the most influential figure in my life. Beyond imparting essential values, he shared invaluable life experiences with me, particularly in the field of construction where we collaborated on numerous projects.
Q: Are there any challenges or hardships you’ve faced that have made you the person you are today?
The early loss of my mother presented a profound challenge, necessitating a journey through life without her guidance. More recently, navigating a divorce has posed its own unique set of challenges, contributing to the person I am today.
Q: How do you find moments of peace, relaxation, or escape from your daily life?
To foster moments of peace, I’ve adopted various tools such as therapy and daily walks with my dog, Maggie, down to the creek. During these outings, I intentionally clear my mind, immersing myself in the present moment while exploring different spots along the way.
Q: Are there any hobbies, talents, or interests that bring joy to your life?
Finding joy in my interests, particularly my Kombi, and expressing my talents through playing the mandolin contribute to a fulfilling and enjoyable life.
"Driven by a passion for horticulture, I aspire to establish a teaching facility to impart my 40 years of experience to the younger generation, fostering a love for this craft."
Q: Have you had any life-changing travel experiences, and if so, what did you learn from them?
Venturing to Europe in my early 20s was transformative. This experience broadened my perspective on different ways of life and instilled a deeper appreciation for my home in Australia.
Q: How have you evolved or changed as a person over the years?
Over the years, I’ve cultivated a greater sense of tolerance and compassion. Regular reflection on my actions has led to a heightened awareness and a willingness to explore alternative approaches to various situations.
Q: Can you share a moment when you felt truly inspired or motivated?
My two daughters continually inspire me, serving as a beacon of positivity during the challenges of divorce. Their encouragement propels me towards focusing on positive pathways and opportunities.
Q: What aspirations or projects are driving you currently?
Driven by a passion for horticulture, I aspire to establish a teaching facility to impart my 40 years of experience to the younger generation, fostering a love for this craft.