After leaving school, Tess began a degree in teaching, but after some time decided it was not quite what she wanted.  During this period, Tess twice went to the United States of America to work in the ski fields. Here she added to the impressive list of injuries sustained in various falls over the years.

Tess is now living in and enjoying Canberra.
In early 2005, Tess took part in the “World's Greatest Shave” to raise money for the leukemia foundation. She raised $1320 - photos can be seen in the Photo Gallery.