John was born in 1938 and educated in Glasgow, Scotland where he was awarded a BSc. in Applied Physics from the University of Strathclyde. After graduation he spent five years in England with Ilford Films in their Physics Development Laboratory, then returned to Scotland and specialized in the plastics industry for six years. Following migration to Australia, he spent three years with ACI Plastics until an economic downturn in 1978 forced him to seek new pastures.

An opportunity to join Vic Roads allowed him to develop a career in traffic engineering, where his technical talents led him into activities related to traffic signals. For a good portion of his 22 years service, he led a team of engineers who were responsible for the operational design of all Victoria's traffic signals. During this period, the advent of computer control of traffic permitted his active involvement in the development of linking of signals along suburban arterial roads, leading to traffic control on an area wide basis.

Following a period of indifferent health, he joined the Peninsula Woodturners Guild in late 1997 prior to retirement in 1998 at age 60. He has found wood-turning to be a most engaging hobby with many facets, each providing interesting challenges. It provides a timely diversion, particularly in the winter months, when inclement weather curtails his other main interest, that of cruising in his trailable sailing-boat.

	Footstool This 360mm diameter stool was assembled in quadrants from Victorian Ash and is supported on five feet for extra stability. It has been lightly stained to match Teak furnishings. The upholstery comprises a dome-shaped medium density polyurethane cushion which is attached to a plywood disk held in the frame by screws from beneath. My wife, Myra, must be credited with the excellent needlework.
	Pedestal bowl This piece is 135mm diameter x 65mm high and is of Camphor Laurel, finished with Danish Oil.
	Candlesticks Fabricated in two parts from Merbeau; each piece stands 155mm high and is finished with Danish Oil.
	Segmented Egg, Cup & Coaster These items were produced from a block made up by laminating Red-gum and Camphor Laurel.
	Pedestal Desk Clock Standing just 130mm high, this three piece assembly is of Red-gum finished with friction polish.