Brisbane born Geoff Wallen was born 5th generation horseman. His father Kevin Wallen was a well renowned A Grade racehorse trainer. His father operated one of the biggest riding schools in Brisbane with upwards of 100 horses. There are not many horse riders in Brisbane that did not pass through their front gate. Geoff grew up with the majority of his waking hours in the saddle, either teaching or training horses for re-sale. Geoff and his brother Allan grew up through the pony club ranks and represented Queensland at inter-state championships. Their father encouraged the boys to spend time with other leading trainers and horsemen to further expand and adapt their horsemanship skills.