GirlGeek of the Week
March 2001

Kellee Cruse

In 1995 Kellee Cruse was employed as Marketing and Event Manager for one of Australia's leading entertainment complexes. Later, she was appointed as the National promotions manager for Festival, a major recording label. During this period the Internet in Australia was fast becoming "the space of opportunity" and Kellee couldn't resist the invitation to become involved.

It's been over eighteen months since Kellee began heading up Startup.com.au Pty Ltd's Marketing and Operations. But soon after commencing her employment, and working on several Startup sites, it soon became apparent that Femail.com.au would require her full attention, due to the public demand for a women's site in Australia. It was not long before Startup.com.au's directors offered Kellee a percentage of the company in return for her dedication to this innovative concept.

Kellee Cruse is now Co-Director, Editor and Business Developer of Australia's most popular website for women, the online magazine www.femail.com.au.

When did you first discover your love and/or obsession with computers and technology?

Until the Internet surfaced for public use in Australia about 5 years ago, I was only ever interested in my Nintendo, particularly Mario Bros. That was the extent of my tech interest, until I was about 25! Sure, I use Microsoft programs as a work tool but Excel, Word and Access don't excite me at all. Power Point was a little more exciting as it allowed for some creativity. But now I love using Notes, Illustrator and Fireworks, brushing up on my Web design skills and surfing at least 10 hrs a week in my spare time.

How do you earn a living?

I am Editor/Business Developer for www.femail.com.au.

Do you consider yourself a Geek?

I think I've been in denial for a long time but now I am loud and proud. Hooray, I'm a Geek!

What is your favorite Website?

www.femail.com.au of course!

What do you do when you are not working?

Surf the net, read magazines Marie Claire, Harpers Bazzaar, Ad News. Catch the latest flick, entertain dinner guests or frequent my favourite cafe's and bars, clothes shopping, play with Koko and Monte my canine friends.

What's your motto?

Don't think about it too hard; just do it.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

Drew Barrymore.

What would be the title of your autobiography?

Late Bloomer

Who is the person you most admire?

At the moment a woman named Christine Nixon. She is the current New South Wales (Sydney Australia) Assistant Police Commissioner and I just read a brief autobiography about her trials and tribulations in the Australian police force as a woman dating back to 1972, This woman has an iron will!

When and where were you the happiest?

The night my husband proposed.

If you could have one super power what would it be?

To change into what ever my situation requires: fire, water, bird etc. Just like the wonder twins — Wonder twin powers activate!