I'm an Experiential Trainer, Best-Selling Author & Keynote Speaker. This is my professional website, please browse a few of the links to get to know me more and how I can help you.
What are you trying to get done? I'd love to have a conversation to discuss what I can do to help you.
Contact MeAs one of the most experienced & qualified experiential trainers in Australia. I'm an expert at helping other group leaders create remarkably fun programs that make a difference.
I’m the author of two best-selling activity books, featuring ice-breakers, group games, trust exercises & team-building activities. My latest book 'Serious Fun' describes how I do what I do.
A highly sought-after trainer on the national & international circuit, I'm a fun, vibrant & super-passionate keynote speaker who will engage your audience immediately & make them laugh.
With a voice people enjoy listening to, I have worked as a voice-over professional for more than 15 years, narrating 90+ audio books, dozens of TV & radio commercials and podcasts.
Hi there, and welcome. Thanks for stopping by. My name is Mark and this is my official website.
I’m a trainer, author, speaker, husband and father (that’s my family on the right.) I also own and operate a professional development business called playmeo.
I love to inspire and empower others. I bring a natural warmth and energy to everything I deliver, from experiential-based training and team development programs to voice-over and speaking engagements.
I’m also the author of three best-selling books, including No Props, Count Me In and my most recent publication, Serious Fun.
I was skeptical before coming. I preferred a cricket match and some beer afterwards. But I have to admit being wrong. This was an excellent team development program...
Dave, Manager, BHP Westernport, VIC
The one word that describes Mark as our wedding MC is SENSATIONAL. He was confident, funny, professional, entertaining and passionate in what he does. Every guest we spoke to felt the same way towards him. We honestly think our night would not run as smooth if it weren't for Mark's efforts to pull it off nicely...
Pauline & Jack Dermawan
Mark has a true talent for narrating talking books. His rendering of the stories makes the characters come alive to the listener...
Phil Lawson, CBM Australia
We can not really find the words to express how highly Nick and I and our families feel about the overall experience with you being our MC. Thank you again for your outstanding service...
Bianca & Nick Panagiotou
I have just returned from Narrabeen Academy of Sport where I accompanied my students for a 3 day camp. I was really impressed with many of the activities, especially the team building games. The instructors showed me your book which they use as a resource. I now want to purchase it...
Nehama Werner, Teacher, NSW
I would like to sincerely thank you for the fabulous job you did as our MC on the brand launching evening. Your professionalism was a blessing. Your ease, your presence and the way you kept the program running was the glue that held our evening in place...
Caz Higgins, Evolve at Typo Station
Mark, What I love most about reading your book, is that I can hear you speak the words; it is written very much the way you talk. It's very cool...
John Isaacs, School Facilitator, USA
Mark, you were brilliant! You captivated the attention of our rather large, diverse crowd, and kept them entertained and moving forward all evening. Thanx so much - we will definitely be booking you again...
Don MacDowall, Executive Officer, Camping Association of Victoria
It is always a pleasure doing business with Mark. The professional quality and attention to detail he brings to his regular voice-over work with us helps keep my life stress-free...
Richard Leigh, Snr Producer, Video Education Australasia
Mark, I have found your book to be an invaluable resource in my work as a youth director for a large church organisation. It contains material that is fun and easy to use, ... well suited to those of us who have very busy schedules ... in short - a magnificent book!...
Murray Hunter, Youth Worker, QLD
You did a fantastic job and helped make the night thoroughly enjoyable and stress-free. We had not thought to hire a professional MC at first, but in retrospect, we doubt that a family member or friend would have done such a good of it. You were lovely to work with - we would not hesitate in recommending you to anyone who is looking for a wedding MC...
Wilhelm & Patricia Hollenbach
No Props and Count Me In are two of my all time favourite games books. I attended one of your games workshops as part of the ACA conference last year and I can honestly say it was the best PD I've had since I graduated. And it was GREAT fun too! I've been able to put heaps of things I learnt to practical use since...
Pip Scott, teacher, VIC
It was so helpful to see how your games could create such cohesion in a group...
Bronwyn, VIC
I just wanted to let you know how successful your No Prop ideas have been with all our groups. Even corporate groups, which is amazing, because most of the middle aged men thought they wouldn't get anything out of these "games"... I just can't tell you how much I have personally got out of all your wonderful ideas...
Liz Tooker, Camp Program Leader, QLD
I attended a session you did at Licola a few years ago. It has proven to be one of the most useful training sessions I have ever done...
Mitch Brody, Camp Leader, QLD
The workshop was a blast. The activities invite everybody to participate without feeling like a fool, even if you do something wrong...
Paul, QLD
I work for 3 and have been using some of your idea's (games/ice-breakers) in my team warm ups when we have cold calling days, they have all been a massive success and I wanted to say thank you...
Kerry Baddeley, corporate trainer, VIC
On all accounts, the program evaluations of your team building sessions were exceptional...
Stella, Program Development, YMCA, VIC
The activities invite everybody to participate without feeling foolish even if you do something wrong. The book explains the activities very simply and the drawings give you an indication on how to organise the group and activity. I am looking forward to using some of the activities for our next school camp...
Paul Ball, Teacher, QLD
Excellent modelling of the material. Mark is an awesome facilitator and his knowledge of the processes and design of programs is extensive...
Brigette, QLD
Your session was one of the highlights of the day for me. I have already used some of your activities in the classroom. Awesome stuff. Seeing my students leave the classroom still laughing and having learned something was brilliant...
Belinda, VIC
Mark, well what can I say! Such a professional job you did, thank you. Everything flowed beautifully and smoothly. Thank you for making our wedding day special...
Wendy & Allen Rayner
No Props is a great tool for teachers and the like as it offers not only a wealth of fun and engaging activities but it provides a solid structure for setting up meaningful learning for students...
Mark Oates, School Outdoor Educator, VIC
Our tourism team had a great result from the team development day devised by Mark. We were able to address issues and build on our strengths as a team, whilst inspiring the inner child. The team had lots of fun and laughter and I highly recommend this unique program to any team...
Raquel Bloom, Manager, The Hills Shire Tourism Board, NSW
We have a collection of books and resources that we provide our students when they are required to plan and lead their own adventure program. Since adding 'No Props' to our collection, it is always the first students grab and is by far the most popular with it's fun no-fuss games and modern, easy to follow format...
Andrew Davis, Co-ordinator, Outdoor Rec Training TAFE, VIC
No Props' is one of the biggest selling education books we have - no activity leader should be without it! There is NO SUBSTITUTE for such a superb book filled with quality games & activities...
Damien Clarke, Red Rock Adventure Products, QLD
The volunteers and staff went crazy for the No Props book we gave them - they don't have anything like that there, and considering the lack of funds and resources they're working with, the books are proving to be invaluable for their kids programs. Most of the guys wouldn't let them out of their sight for the week they were on camp with us...
Ang Cuy, YMCA Community Dev Officer, VIC
Mark has a great understanding of the technical requirements of recording which makes the final product sparkle. His enthusiasm and commitment to the work make him a pleasure to work with...
Phil Lawson, CBM Australia
The activities in Count Me In are great. A huge plus has been the way that the activities get rid of the children's habit of being picky about which partners or groups they end up with. I pointed this out to my group and they were blown away by the fact that the activities become so much more fun when they don't worry about social issues. Thanks for putting together such a great resource - keep up the brilliant work...
Bernard Kerrins, Catholic School teacher, NSW
Mark was an outstanding MC. He has a very calm and balanced manner, a good sense of humour and an excellent attitude. My colleagues spoke highly of him without prompting. I recommend Mark without reservation...
Prof Rob Willis, Academic Director, Monash University
There is still a buzz around the Centres from your conference sessions. Thank you so very much...
Robert Ridley, Manager, NSW Sport & Rec, Centre Ops
Mark, your books are doing great!!! I used them for activities in O'Week - and planning to use them extensively at the beginning of a new community development program I'm running to build trust, etc. Your books will be a great reference for me as I work with these groups...
Erin Morgan, Student Union volunteer, VIC
I would like to thank you for writing a book that has been very useful for me when trying to engage some very negative and entrenched people within local government. The activities have been very well received...
Peter Yow, Learning & Development Co-ordinator, WA
Thank you very much for Saturday night, I didn't get a proper chance to say good bye. We had a very successful night raising $5,648.00 – and most of this was because of you. You were brilliant Mark...
Kristi Hanley, Diamond Valley Multiple Births Assoc
I have had great feedback from the event. You came up quite a few times as "the handsome young man" and the "smoothy with the groovy"... well done, and thanks...
Caz Higgins, Evolve at Typo Station
It was AMAZING to put your book into practise straight away, the improvement in my facilitation with groups was really evident. I am a lot more confident in my delivery and can deal with any changes as they arise...
Clint Miller, School Camps Leader, QLD
You presented one of the best evenings our church has ever had the pleasure to enjoy. Your attitude and enthusiasm was infectious, it was near impossible to not have a good time last week. Thanx so much...
Steve Tyrell, Minister, Coatesville Uniting Church
Mark is a natural in this role. He immediately engaged with my team and was able to commence the day with great enthusiasm which spread to all of the participants. He kept the day moving, and each session had a fresh approach which extracted the most from the team...
Richard Williams, Marketing Manager, Transurban
From our first meeting with you Mark, Shane and I were more than comfortable to sit back and let you run the show. You gave us great confidence that the night would go without any troubles. And that it did. Great job! Mark, you would be the only person I'd recommend...
Shane & Charmaine Greaves
Mark, I met you in 2002 ... I'm now training to be a primary school teacher in NZ. I can't seem to find your 'No Props' publication ANYWHERE! How do I go about purchasing this fantastic resource - it's a great education resource for teachers...
Andrew J White, Teacher, New Zealand
Thanks again for teaching our students like no else can. They really get everything you teach and put it into practice straight away...
Andrew Davis, Wodonga TAFE, VIC
I was extremely impressed with the organisation and co-ordination of the event. I was particularly impressed with the MC too. He did a remarkable job and knew how to work the audience...
Participant feedback, Play In A Day, Sherbrooke Theatre Co. Inc
Another great tool to have in the kit. Great activities to use, easy to understand and no equipment needed to facilitate on the run...
Brad Quinn, Corporate Team Building Co-ordinator, VIC
Thanks for the session yesterday, you are a true artist in games!...
Virginia, QLD
I can honestly say that this workshop was the best PD I have ever had since I graduated. And it was great Fun too. I've been able to put heaps of things I learnt into practice immediately...
Phillippa, TAS
ATTENTION facilitators, teachers, group leaders, youth workers and party animals!!! The No-Props book is a fantastic resource. Over the years, I have used nearly every activity in it and found them to be a powerful way to get people connected and create an engaging atmosphere. Mark has really captured a truckload of wisdom and placed it into this great resource that should be in every facilitator's tool-bag. Well played Mark!...
Michael Derwin, Consultant, QLD
Mark has provided a reliable and professional service time after time. His turnaround is swift and his process has been a great match for our requirements...
Derek Green, Director, e-interact
Thank you!! I thought you might like to know where I heard about / saw your fantastic book being used. We have just taken our stage 3 students on a Sport & Recreation camp and one of their night activities was 'games'. All the games they played were 'no props'. I thought it was terrific and the instructor referred me to your book. I can't wait to use it!!...
Amy Dennis, Teacher, NSW
Thanks for Monday evening. The feedback has all been very positive, even from those who wanted a count back! See you again...
Andrew McGuckian, Uniting Church Synod (VIC)
In fact, you've probably had a greater influence on the "brand" and perceived quality of the program than anyone else. I was left in awe of your professionalism, attention to detail and genuine commitment to the program. We'll be forever grateful...
David Baker, Camp America Australia
So many of the activities support the development of team work, communication and goal setting – and they're fun! A great way to introduce or reinforce skills developed through the Personal Development Skills (PDS) strand of VCAL...
Jan Hagston, CEO, Victoria Applied Learning Association
BEST in-service I have EVER attended – a big call...
Hilary, QLD
Mark is a fantastic facilitator and I just love 'No Props'. It is packed with loads of activities, the book is easy to read and handy to have available...
Liz Leyshan, Camp Director, NSW
I am using the book heaps because I work with school programs. Each time I run a games session, I try to use a new game from your book. It's an excellent resource. Thanx heaps...
Penne Anderson, Teacher, NSW
Thank you for your books and new ideas. I work with a Christian group called Kairos and we go into the prisons weekly and these icebreakers get the ball rolling and start the afternoon with a bit of fun...
Lyn Thornell, SA
In the last month I have been having lots of FUNN! Your books have been with me on all of my trips and I have been using activities from them to enhance my initiative sessions. The kids have also been enjoying the games. The books were definitely a great investment!!!...
Rebecca McGrath, Outdoor Educator, VIC
Having the opportunity to be a participant on your program was absolutely inspirational!! Thank you for doing what you do the way you do it...
Deb, VIC
I couldn't believe how much fun people were having. Thanks for contributing so much to our conference...
Helen, Co-ordinator, National Outdoor Education Conference, VIC
All feedback on the Trivia was extremely positive and really rounded off a successful day...
Dean McDonald, Design Solutions, PowerCor
Feedback from the night has been universally positive which is a testament to your ability to enthuse the group and encourage participation...
Lisa Sukkel, RACV Club Library
I have learned a LOT from your book and am already drawing connections to how I can better my programs. Thank you, thank you, thank you!...
Stella Cifone, Community Development Officer YMCA, VIC
Mark has an authoritive voice, with a warm touch, perfect for educational productions or corporate work...
Cath Collins, Producer, Video Education Australasia
The 'No Props' book is a great publication as a reference to remind us of all the activities we have forgotten or variances, simply explained, that we have not thought of. The book gives great piece of mind to have it on hand whilst running any style of program!...
Frazer Yendell, Program Co-ordinator, VIC
Just a quick note of thanks for your excellent hosting last night. As expected it was nicely executed, your chat with the other presenters was great, your dealing with questions at the end was handled professionally, and we finished on time...
David Baker, Director, American Institute For Foreign Study (Aust)
The workshop gave me heaps of ideas for fun games and activities for working with young people. The activities we learned will be especially useful for our current target group of 11-14 year old "at risk" students...
Del, VIC
You were so charming, articulate and helpful on the night, we had no worries at all. You are easily the BEST MC we have ever seen and we would highly recommend you to everyone we know...
Brandon & Amy Lee
'No Props' is a fantastic resource in my book collection - the tattered pages and pen marks show it is also the most used book in my collection! As an outdoor educator, it has been a wonderful tool to help groups learn through games and with "no props" it's suitable for anywhere, anytime! Put me on the purchase list for 'No Props #2' when it comes out...
Beth McLeod, Teacher, QLD
Mark is an excellent presenter. He engaged all of the participants all of the time...
Ross, QLD
Mark was at all times professional, prompt in his responses and able to use his wealth of experience in a way which was inclusive to us as clients. He was also thankfully very well prepared yet flexible and could restructure the event schedule when required to ensure the evening finished on time...
Lisa Sukkel, RACV Club Library
Mark has a fantastic approach to delivering games that are focused on getting people of all ages involved in fun and productive interpersonal activities. 'No Props' outlines hundreds of games that are easy to deliver... the information is well presented and easy to understand... it's an excellent resource for anyone involved in managing and training groups. Check it out!...
David Payne, Outdoor Educator, QLD
It was a great day. Everyone commented that it was one of the best that they had ever attended...
Fiona Coad, Manager, The Hills Shire, NSW