Staff Profiles
SMCS prides itself on technical professionalism and friendliness. All our instructors and staff are qualified and experienced in their chosen fields, but most importantly they’re great entertainers and great teachers. They will ensure your safety at all times so all you have to worry about is having fun and taking in the views!
Here is a little information on some of our staff. More profiles will be added.
Chris Brown - Managing Director/ Senior Trainer
I began my climbing career in 1985 after rodeoing for 12 year, needing a safer more predictable way to get my thrills. I started mountaineering in the Cascade Ranges of Washington State before taking up rock climbing. I then proceeded to try to visit every crag in the U.S, before I rediscovered my passion for the big mountains. Starting with the Canadian Rockies, I soon graduated to Alaska and then the world. I began SMCS in 1996 out of a passion for the mountains and a desire to share this with the world. My travels have taken me to places far and wide and have allowed me to discover new places and people. I guess I'm really just an explorer at heart!
Tim Benstead - Operations Manager
I have been involved in the Outdoor Recreation Industry since 2003 when I was accepted into university to study a Bachelor of Applied Science (Adventure Ecotourism). In conjuction with this degree I also gained a Certificate 4 in Outdoor Recreation which has provided me with the majority of my outdoor skills and the chance to travel.
Since the commencement of my studies, I have experience a number of the natural wonders and activities around N.S.W. and Victoria and have also experience the Kokoda Trail. In recent travel's I have missioned up through Queensland working in a variety of Outdoor Recreation positions including tour guide up through Mossman Gorge & Cape Tribulation, white water rafting guide on the Tully river and Indoor climbing and sea kayaking guide around the Gold Coast.
I thouroughly enjoy the outdoors and trying out new experiences, what ever they may be.