By Jane Rocca

Copyright brisbanetimes

Mum [Madelene] was born in the mid-1960s and lived down the road from my dad, Joe. Her parents were very strict. Dad worked as a mechanic and ran his own businesses. He had his share of girlfriends but heard there was a “good girl” down the road. My grandmothers arranged for them to meet. A movie date turned into more and nine months later they married. Mum was 19 and had me at 21.

Mum is the money minder in my business and keeps a close eye on every dollar. She’s a quiet lady who is strong in her own way, and very patient. I get my determination from her.

My sister, Renee, and I are very close. She is two years younger than me. As teenagers, we used to love dancing while watching Rage or Video Hits. She was very social and butted heads with Dad more than I did.

My celebrity crush growing up was Peter Andre. I danced around Dad’s workshop listening to his songs.

I always felt comfortable around girls, and they felt comfortable around me. I didn’t want to kiss a girl or be in a relationship with one, but ended up kissing a friend during schoolies.