Turning 40: Surprise Parties, Trivia & School Mates Reunited

They say life begins at 40, and if the way my milestone birthday played out is anything to go by, they might just be right! Over the course of a few days, I was lucky enough to have two incredible surprise parties—one with colleagues who had become good mates, and another with friends from high school, people I’d shared my teenage years with 25 years ago.

Beer, Schnitzel & Trivia at Beerhaus
The first celebration was in Bowen Hills at Beerhaus, where my workmates-turned-mates pulled off a surprise that involved good beer, massive schnitzels, and some of the fastest-paced trivia I’ve ever played. The Trivia Master (is that what they’re called?) burned through questions like he had a plane to catch, leaving our team—aptly named “No Farking Idea”—scrambling to keep up. In the end, we managed to snag a win, proving that maybe we had some farking idea after all. It was a night full of laughs, great company, and a reminder of how lucky I am to work alongside such an awesome group of people.

A Farm Celebration with School Mates
The second surprise came months later, when my longtime friend Vicki and her husband Troy hosted a party on their farm, west of Brisbane. The guest list? A handful of mates I’d gone to school with 25 years earlier—friends who had been there through bad haircuts, dodgy playground antics, and all the chaos of teenage years. To see these familiar faces, all gathered to celebrate my 40th, was nothing short of incredible. The night was filled with catching up, reminiscing about old stories, and making new ones, proving that no matter how many years go by, some friendships are built to last.

40 & Feeling Grateful
Turning 40 wasn’t just about the milestone—it was about the people who made it unforgettable. From workmates who have become lifelong friends to schoolmates who still feel like family, and a very special night away with Kiri; this birthday was a perfect mix of past and present. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate. Here’s to old friends, new friends, and the next chapter ahead—whatever it may bring!