Fame and fortune should never get in front of your passion. The passion will generate the fame and fortune, if you're good enough.

My father Big Max told me many years ago that 'anything you are good at will contribute to your happiness'. Great advice.

I used to want to be a lawyer, but I didn't want to have half my brain sucked out.

When I go and speak now at all sorts of conferences, later in the night there's always a better Maxie Walker than me. Billy Birmingham's legendary for basically being able to verbally kneecap any of a number of Australia's characters, particularly in the commentary box.

Given how well the cards have been dealt to someone like myself, I think there's an inherent obligation to try to reach out and make a difference.

I was good at football and cricket at school. My dad said, 'Son, be an architect,' and I came to Melbourne passionate about becoming an architect.

My sister died and my mum was really distant, as you do - you don't expect your offspring to die before you. I thought I was bulletproof up until that stage.