North Queensland product whose rise to the national team didn't follow the lines of most at this level. Coming to Sydney, Thwaite played for Sydney University in the lower State Leagues, before deciding to go for a trial with Marconi Stallions in the National League. Was quickly snapped up and has made every post a winner since then, with his displays in defence. The collapse of the national league saw him head overseas to play in Romania with FC National. After initial success, endured a very tough time of it and was forced to spend many months on the sidelines after deciding he would not re-sign with the club. Eventually his case went to FIFA and was allowed to sign with top Polish club Wisla Krakow. Played with the Under 20's at 2003 World Youth Cup, playing all four games and the Under 23's although only in qualifying. Made his Socceroos debut in 2005 and is one of the next generation of defenders coming through. Can play anywhere across the backline, although at club and international level so far, he has been mainly used on the left.