Local Profiles

Local Profiles

Crafting Spirits with Heart: The Story Behind Imbibis Distillery

Behind every great craft spirit is a story of passion, persistence and a little bit of courage. For Jason and Maree Hannay, the founders of Imbibis Craft Distillery, that story began with a dream to create something uniquely Australian – and deeply personal. Today, their boutique distillery has earned international recognition for its artisan gins and brandy, but the journey to get there has been just as rich as the spirits themselves. Jason, your background is in winemaking. How did the journey into distilling begin? Jason: I spent more than 20 years working in the Queensland wine industry, so fermentation and flavour were already part of my life. But I’d always had a fascination with distillation – the science and artistry of transforming raw ingredients into something complex and expressive. Eventually, that curiosity turned into a dream to craft my own spirits using local ingredients. That dream became Imbibis.  What was it like launching a distillery from scratch? Jason: Equal parts exciting and terrifying! We officially launched in late 2019, and within months we were navigating a global pandemic. But the response from the local community was incredible. People really embraced the idea of an Ipswich-based distillery producing premium spirits, and that support kept us going in those early days.  Maree, you’ve had a very different career path. How did you become involved? Maree: My background is actually in the corporate and legal worlds. I worked with organisations like Woolworths, BHP and MinterEllison before joining Imbibis full time. But creativity has always been important to me – I’m also a watercolour artist – so stepping into the distillery gave me a chance to bring that creative energy into the brand. These days I wear many hats: marketing, events, customer engagement… and occasionally bottle labelling and glass washing!  Your spirits have already won international awards. What makes them special? Jason: We focus on small-batch production and high-quality local ingredients. Many of our botanicals are native Australian flavours like lemon myrtle, native pepperberry and bottlebrush. The idea is to create spirits that reflect where we live and the ingredients available around us.  What does it mean to see your work recognised on the global stage? Maree: It’s incredibly rewarding. When we started, we simply wanted to make beautiful spirits that people would enjoy sharing with friends. To now see our gins and brandies winning medals internationally is both humbling and exciting. And finally – what’s next for Imbibis? Jason: We’re always experimenting. Distillation is a constant journey of discovery. Whether it’s a new botanical blend, a small-batch brandy or something entirely unexpected, we’re always looking for ways to keep the creative process alive. Stay tuned for launch of Ipswich’s very first whiskey. Coming soon. For Jason and Maree, Imbibis isn’t just a distillery – it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, local ingredients and the simple joy of sharing a drink with good company. imbibis.com.au

Local Profiles

Growing strong girls, empowering futures

By Megan Stray  More than a decade ago, while working as a kinesiologist in a small clinic beneath my home, I began noticing a pattern that was impossible to ignore.  Young people were arriving not with the usual childhood complaints, but with something far heavier. Seven-year-olds struggling with debilitating anxiety and missing large amounts of school. Ten-year-olds already prescribed antidepressants. Bright, sensitive young girls battling eating disorders far earlier than anyone expected.  Behind every child was a family searching for answers, hoping to find the missing piece that would help their daughter feel safe, confident and whole again. Watching these stories unfold, it became clear that something needed to change.  From that realisation, Heal.ed Tribe was born.  What began as a deeply personal response has grown into a local not-for-profit organisation supporting young girls across the Gold Coast. The first initiative was a small three-day retreat for five girls experiencing eating disorders and their mothers, alongside two teenage girls living in homeless shelters. There was no rigid clinical agenda. The intention was simple: to create a space where young people felt seen, supported and genuinely cared for.  Today, almost eleven years later, Heal.ed Tribe continues to focus on education, prevention and early intervention, helping young girls build resilience and strengthen their mental wellbeing. Every program and conversation is grounded in a core belief that no young person should feel alone in their mental health journey.  The challenges facing young people continue to grow. Experts predict that by 2030, mental health concerns could become Australia’s greatest disease burden, surpassing cancer and heart disease. Yet beyond the statistics are the real stories and quiet breakthroughs that remind us why community support matters.  Because these girls are the women of our future. Watching a young person rediscover hope, confidence and a sense of belonging is powerful, not only for them, but for the families and communities surrounding them.  To learn more or support the work of Heal.ed Tribe, visit healedtribe.org.au 

Local Profiles

Elevated Alfresco: A Conversation with Mary Sidey of Dune Outdoor Luxuries

For more than 17 years, Mary and Ben Sidey have been shaping how Gold Coasters live outdoors. As the founders of Dune Outdoor Luxuries and the exclusive Australian distributor of iconic U.S. brand Brown Jordan, Mary has become synonymous with timeless design, premium craftsmanship, and serene alfresco living. We sat down with her to talk inspiration, luxury materials, and the secrets to creating outdoor spaces that truly feel like home.    The Inspiration Behind the Craft  What inspired your passion for luxurious outdoor spaces?  MARY: I’ve always wanted to create a sanctuary at home – a place for family and friends to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Travelling overseas exposed me to brands that were operating at a higher level. Brown Jordan stood out for its heritage, attention to detail, and marine-grade materials. Becoming their exclusive Australian distributor was a natural step. Their designs from the 1940s are still relevant today — timeless and enduring.    The Art of Effortless Elegance  What’s your secret to transforming an ordinary outdoor area into a sanctuary?  MARY: Layering and using only the best materials. Sunbrella solution-dyed acrylics are non-negotiable for us – they last and elevate every space. I also keep accessories minimal; the furniture should always be the hero. When the design is strong, the space feels calm, inviting, and effortlessly elegant.    Alfresco Trends – and What Lasts  What trends are shaping luxury outdoor spaces?  MARY: I focus on understanding a client’s lifestyle. Onsite consultations help create flow from indoors to outdoors, making the space feel cohesive. I don’t chase trends – create long-term spaces. For apartment living, I recommend deep seating instead of dining, encouraging more use and comfort. Timeless design always wins.    The Dream Outdoor Haven  If you could design your ultimate outdoor space, what would it include?  MARY: A pool and covered seating area layered with an outdoor rug and sheer Sunbrella curtains. An outdoor kitchen with a built-in Weber BBQ, oversized pots filled with lush plants, and furniture that connects seamlessly to the interior. Outdoor rooms should feel just as beautiful and inviting as the indoors.    A Standout Project  Is there a project that holds a special place in your heart?  MARY: One home in Sanctuary Cove stands out. The developer asked me to stage the outdoor areas. I encouraged them to invest in quality furniture, and it transformed the property. Interiors were staged professionally, and I styled the outdoors with Brown Jordan furniture, cushions, and plants. The result? Top-dollar sale — and the buyers purchased all the furniture. It was the perfect example of how powerful outdoor design can be.

Local Profiles

From boardroom to belonging.

Howard Campbell never imagined a life helping others. For decades, he had been climbing the corporate ladder, thriving in high-pressure management roles where results mattered more than relationships. At 68, he admits he “had little time for people” who didn’t share his drive.  Success had been his focus, and with it came a certain blindness. He rarely considered the struggles of those around him until semi-retirement slowed the pace and gave him time to reflect. “I realised many people around me, including family and friends, faced mental health and substance challenges I had once overlooked,” said Howard.  Determined to understand and make a difference, Howard began searching for ways to help. That’s when he discovered the Certificate III in Community Services at TAFE Queensland. Enrolling was the start of a deep personal journey. “I was amazed that at this late stage in my life I could gain insights I’d been blind to all my life,” he said. “Understanding mental health and addiction challenges has been profound. I now see people I once judged differently and I can actually help.”  “I had no intention of going beyond the Certificate III, but the journey was so rewarding I had to continue to Certificate IV,” he said. Today, Howard works as a Support Worker—a role he finds deeply fulfilling after decades of success in business. “I feel like I’m finally contributing to something meaningful. And that’s a feeling you don’t outgrow,” said Howard.  This sense of purpose has brought him a peace and fulfilment that his high-powered corporate roles could never provide.  Howard’s TAFE experience Howard’s decision to study at TAFE Queensland was pivotal in his career shift. The Certificate III in Community Services provided him with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for his new path.  TAFE Queensland’s Southport campus offers a range of courses in community services, including counselling, youth work, child health and family intervention, individual support and mental health. These programs are designed to equip individuals with the tools to make a positive impact in their communities.  The supportive learning environment at TAFE Queensland, coupled with practical placements, ensured Howard was well-prepared to transition into his new role. His experience highlights the importance of vocational education in facilitating career changes and personal growth.

Local Profiles

Hearts of gold: Archer’s design brings hope to sick kids this Christmas

This Christmas, nine-year-old Archer from Queensland is sharing a little extra joy with families facing one of the toughest experiences imaginable: having a child in hospital.  Archer is one of 11 young patients whose artwork has been transformed into festive wrapping paper and Heart Tokens as part of BIG W’s annual Christmas fundraiser for the Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation. His cheerful design, complete with Santa, a present and a cookie, captures the magic of the season and the hope that comes with healing.  For two and a half years, Archer has been treated for Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. His journey has included chemotherapy, blood transfusions, surgeries and long stretches in hospital. Recently, he reached a milestone moment many families dream of. He rang the bell at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, marking the end of his active treatment.  During his time in hospital, Archer found joy in the creative programs run by the Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation. These activities, funded by community donations, gave him moments of normalcy and connection in an otherwise overwhelming time.  His mum, Marta, says the Foundation became a lifeline for their family. “Two and a half years ago, our lives turned upside down. The Foundation was there through every step, from providing emotional support to creating special moments for the kids. After spending a Christmas in hospital, it feels like such a gift to be celebrating this one at home, together.”  Funds raised through BIG W’s Charity Wrap and Heart Tokens go directly to the Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation, helping support programs that bring joy, comfort and relief to sick children and their families. This year, BIG W has also donated an additional $20,000 to support these initiatives.  Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice says the need for support continues to grow. “Each year, the hospital treats more than 110,000 children, and one in three come from regional or remote areas. Many families spend the holidays far from home. Thanks to the generosity of the community, we can help make that time a little brighter.”  For Archer and his family, that generosity means something simple and profound: the chance to spend Christmas surrounded by love, laughter and good health once again.

Local Profiles

“I Don’t Want to Feel Helpless”: Why Irish Chose Nursing

When Irish Tse lost her grandfather, she felt powerless. But that moment sparked a determination that would shape the rest of her life. “I don’t want to feel helpless anymore,” she says. “I want to contribute to the community.” Now in her second year of a Bachelor of Nursing at TAFE Queensland’s Southport campus, Irish is well on her way to becoming a registered nurse, driven by a clear sense of purpose. Her first patient during placement brought that mission to life. “He had multiple sclerosis,” says Irish. “I saw him get better, and when he thanked me, I knew I was where I was meant to be. It was so rewarding. It still motivates me.” At 28, Irish began her journey with TAFE Queensland’s Diploma of Nursing, which she says prepared her for both the academic and emotional demands of the degree. “It gave me the foundation I needed, not just with writing or assessments, but how to walk into a room, speak to patients, and be confident even when I didn’t have all the answers,” she says. Now working in the cardiac unit at Pindara Private Hospital while completing her bachelor’s, she is already applying her skills in real-life settings, supported by the practical, hands-on approach at TAFE Queensland. “The support at TAFE is incredible. The teachers go above and beyond. They care about you, not just your grades. I’ve never felt like just a number,” she says. “They explain complex theories in ways that actually make sense.” The Southport campus’s realistic training environments and small class sizes gave her the space to grow and the confidence to ask questions without fear. “That’s my advice to other students: be brave. Ask everything. No question is too small,” says Irish. Irish sees her future in emergency care, where adrenaline and critical thinking meet purpose. One day, she hopes to volunteer in remote or disaster-affected communities. “Nursing is never boring. It’s always changing, always growing.” Scholarships available for TAFE Queensland nursing students Becoming a registered nurse just got easier and more affordable, with TAFE Queensland now offering academic scholarships of up to $3,000 for eligible students enrolling in their Bachelor of Nursing program. The scholarships, which are automatically applied upon enrolment, mean students can save up to $750 per unit in their first semester. There is no separate application process or extra paperwork. To find out more, contact TAFE Queensland at tafeqld.edu.au

Local Profiles

From Rock Bottom to Incredible Heights

Meet Allie Pepper Having recently turned 50, Allie Pepper is climbing stronger than ever. But her latest summit isn’t just about breaking altitude records, it’s about reclaiming her life. Australian high-altitude mountaineer Allie Pepper has spent a huge part of her life chasing the clouds and pushing her limits. Get It Magazine spoke with Allie to hear about a recent summit, Kanchenjunga (the world’s third-highest peak at 8,586 metres!) and to learn more about her journey after a series of deeply personal challenges that nearly saw her hang up her climbing boots for good. “I was at rock bottom,” Allie says, reflecting on a time not too long ago when everything seemed to collapse at once. “I’d lost my dad unexpectedly, my marriage had ended, and I was going through severe menopause symptoms. depression, night sweats, insomnia. I didn’t feel like myself. I wasn’t sure if I could ever climb again.” Like so many women, menopause hit Allie by surprise, and it almost ended her climbing journey. At first, Allie didn’t even realise what was happening to her. “I was 46 and had no idea my symptoms were menopause. I saw three doctors before I found someone who understood. Most GPs aren’t trained in menopause properly. It’s so under-recognised.” Eventually, she connected with a Welfem-trained doctor and began hormone therapy, and Allie tells me: “It absolutely changed my life. Within a month, the depression, insomnia, and joint pain started to ease. After a year, I felt like my body had reversed in time. I could build muscle again, recover from training: it was like night and day.” Allie had already completed major climbs in her earlier career, including her first 8,000m summit in 2007, but the dream of completing all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre peaks without supplemental oxygen (a feat achieved by only a handful of people worldwide) had always burned in the background. “The project was always in my heart, but I hadn’t fully committed. After everything I went through – it just felt like now or never.” As her peaks have progressed, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. For Allie’s Kanchenjunga climb, funding came late & the weather window was closing. And while Allie had planned to summit without bottled oxygen,  as she had on five other 8,000m peaks, she made the call to use it. “It wasn’t safe without it,” she says. “I was on the edge of a storm at over 8,500 metres. I wanted to survive and come down.” “It’s so extreme up there” Allie explains, “Without supplemental oxygen, your brain is operating with just a third of the oxygen it’s used to. Even when conditions are perfect, your legs can give way. This climb wasn’t about the view — it was survival.” Behind that physical strength, though, is a different kind of work, an ongoing commitment to deep emotional and mental training. “I worked with a life coach for over a year when I began seriously preparing for the 14 Peaks,” Allie explains. “I needed to master my mind, to stop attaching to fear, to outcomes. I meditate daily. I train mentally, emotionally, and spiritually: not just physically.” Now, she says, “I know my body so well. I feel better at 50 than I did at 40. Stronger. Sharper. I’m climbing better than I ever have – better than most men I’ve climbed with. Only one Australian man has achieved more in the 8,000m peaks than I have.” The milestone of turning 50 – which coincided with her descent from Kanchenjunga – was a calm and quiet celebration. “We drove for hours that day and stayed in this remote hotel. I went to sleep at 8pm. The next day we celebrated in Kathmandu with some incredible female climbers. It was perfect.” She laughs when asked if this was the life she imagined at 30. “Not at all. But I also never imagined how much was possible!” As this next chapter of her life unfolds, Allie is working on a short film about the climb and considering a full documentary. “This journey is about more than mountains. It’s about showing people that it’s never too late. We are capable of way more than we think. You can go through the hardest chapter of your life and still find your way to the summit.” For those standing at their own crossroads, wondering what’s next? Allie suggests turning the mirror back on yourself: “It’s a good time to ask: how do I want to live the rest of my life? It’s not just about being thin or fit. It’s about being well: body, mind and soul. That’s a choice we get to make, every single day.”

Local Profiles

From Crisis to Innovation

How One Mother’s Determination Created a Lifesaving Product Gold Coast entrepreneur Krissy Jarvie has turned a parent’s worst nightmare into a business solution that’s keeping people connected when they need it most.   When Krissy Jarvie’s phone rang that evening, what followed was every parent’s fear—a call for help from her son who had been attacked and was stranded with a dying phone battery. That terrifying moment of lost connection sparked an idea that would eventually become Powerdaze, a compact emergency phone charger that’s now helping people across Australia stay safe and connected. The Spark of Innovation “The most haunting reality was how was I going to reach him because his phone had died completely ,” Krissy reflects. “That single moment made me realise how many people must face similar situations—stranded, vulnerable, with no way to call for help.” Rather than dwelling on the trauma, Krissy channeled her energy into solving a problem she knew was bigger than her family’s experience. “I kept thinking about festival-goers, hikers, people working late, students walking home—anyone who might find themselves in danger with a dead phone.” Building Something Better What started as a mother’s determination quickly evolved into serious entrepreneurship. Krissy spent months researching portable charging technology, studying market gaps, and envisioning a product that would be compact enough to carry anywhere yet powerful enough to make a difference. “I wanted something that could fit in your pocket, wouldn’t add bulk to a purse, but could give you that crucial 50% charge you need to call for help, call an Uber, or let someone know where you are,” she explains. Overcoming the Challenges The journey from concept to product wasn’t smooth. Multiple manufacturers turned her down, dismissing the idea or questioning the market demand. “I heard ‘no’ more times than I care to count,” Krissy laughs. “But I knew this product needed to exist.” Her persistence paid off when she found a manufacturing partner who shared her vision. Together, they developed Powerdaze – a biodegradable, recyclable pre-charged device that provides approximately 50% phone charge and fits easily in a wallet or pocket. Smart Design Meets Real Need What sets Powerdaze apart isn’t just its convenience—it’s the thoughtful design that considers real- world emergencies. The chargers come pre-charged and maintain their power for months, meaning they’re ready when you need them most. The biodegradable and recyclable materials reflect Krissy’s commitment to environmental responsibility.“We didn’t want to create more electronic waste,” she explains. “If you’re going to solve one problem, you shouldn’t create another.” Market Success and Real Impact The response has exceeded Krissy’s expectations. Customers are purchasing Powerdaze chargers not just for themselves, but as gifts for  students, festival-goers, and anyone who spends time away from traditional charging sources. “Parents are buying them for their kids heading to university. Event organisers are purchasing them in bulk. We’ve had hikers tell us these chargers gave them peace of mind on remote trails,” Krissy shares. One customer wrote: “I keep one in my running belt and another in my car’s glove compartment. It’s such a simple solution, but knowing I can always make that emergency call is priceless.” Building a Business with Purpose What started as a personal mission has grown into a thriving business. Krissy has developed relationships with retailers, built an online presence, and is exploring partnerships with safety organisations and educational institutions. “The business side has been a huge learning curve,” she admits. “But when you’re passionate about your product and know it can genuinely help people, that drives you through the challenges.” Environmental Innovation The biodegradable and recyclable aspects of Powerdaze reflects a growing trend toward sustainable tech solutions, unlike traditional portable chargers that contribute to electronic waste.“Sustainability wasn’t an afterthought – it was central to our design philosophy,” Krissy explains. “We wanted to create something that helps people without harming the planet.” Looking Forward Krissy is already working on expanding the Powerdaze range, with plans for different capacity options and exploring potential partnerships with safety apps and emergency services. “I’d love to see these become as common as carrying a spare key,” she says. “Not because people expect to need them, but because when you do need them, they’re there.” Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs For others considering turning a personal experience into a business venture, Krissy’s advice is straightforward: “Don’t let people tell you there’s no market for your idea if you know there’s a real problem to solve. Sometimes the best innovations come from the most personal places.” The Bigger Picture Today, Krissy’s son has fully recovered and is proud of what his mother has built from their difficult experience. “He jokes that he’s the ‘inspiration’ behind Powerdaze,” she laughs. “But really, he’s shown me that you can take something negative and create something positive from it.” Powerdaze represents more than just a charging solution—it’s proof that innovation often comes from the most unexpected places, and that determination can transform even the most challenging experiences into opportunities to help others. “Every time someone tells me they feel safer carrying a Powerdaze, or that it helped them in a tough situation, I know we’ve achieved what we set out to do,” Krissy reflects. “That’s the real success story.” Powerdaze chargers are available online and through select retailers. For more information about the product and Krissy‘s entrepreneurial journey, visit powerdaze.com.au or follow @powerdaze on social media.  

Local Profiles

Bold, Brave & Beautiful – A Talk with Artist Tracie Eaton

  Known as Australia’s “artist to the stars”, international contemporary artist and Gold Coast local, Tracie Eaton, sits down with Get It Magazine to talk about her signature ‘passion-art’, memorable moments in her career, and drawing inspiration from the world around her. 1. How did your artistic career first get started – did you always imagine yourself working in this field? I have always been a creative person, but became rather obsessed with colour in my early 20s. I was working as an occupational therapist in paediatrics and forensic psychiatry and used art and creativity to help clients unlock their feelings and to communicate. It took another 10 years or so before I realised that painting was my true calling – the moment I first put brush to canvas I knew this was me. 2. How did your A-lister reputation develop, and what draws people to your work? Being commissioned to paint for Academy Award nominees for three years most certainly helped me to gain traction and reputation as an artist. We are all drawn to things that make us feel connected, happy and engaged, and my work does this. From a purely art investment perspective, the value of my artworks have tripled in as many years, and continues to, so I’m sure that is an important consideration for some of my clients also. 3. Can you share about the term “passion-art” and what this means? Passion-art, as described by the curator who used it regarding my work, essentially meant that everyone who views my work “falls in love with it”. For me, passion-art stems from the energy within the work – my artwork is colourful and I use colour very specifically to elicit emotion. By incorporating so many colours, textures, media and painting styles, my paintings are alive – I have never forgotten how to play! I am obsessed with colour and how it makes us feel, so I am inspired every day, doing everyday things. 4. Do you have a stand-out career story you could share? One that does come to mind was when I was approached by Jim Carey who asked me what I thought of his art. It was very humbling to have a discussion around someone’s artwork who is so well established! Another stand-out moment for me was when, following one of my exhibitions, I was approached by someone there, who thanked me. He stated he had been colour blind for years, and therefore never appreciated art. However, one of the pieces I created, he saw perfectly. I was blown away that I had painted something that not only he could see, but one that touched his heart so much. 5. You’re based here on the beautiful GC – what are your favourite things about this part of the world? There are so many wonderful things about the Gold Coast and I’m proud to call it my home. I love the climate, the energy and the vibrancy of the Gold Coast. I enjoy the contrast that exists. Where else can you see a surfer carrying their board, walking barefoot, and a business professional heading off to a meeting all at once? 6. For someone looking to get into the art world, what’s your advice for them to carve their own creative path? I am self-taught, and I believe this is a fabulous way of working out what you want from creativity. My advice is to trust your instinct, remove judgement about what you are creating and simply do. Find a way to become business savvy – if you do not want to learn basic business, sales & marketing skills and process, find someone who can do this for you. Oh, and do not listen to people who say art is a waste of time – have faith, work hard and stay focused. 7. What’s on the horizon for you in 2023? There are quite a few exciting things happening for me and the Tracie Eaton Brand in 2023 – most excitingly, there is significant movement on the international stage. I am excited by all this activity, as it will absolutely force me to be the best at what I do and ensure that my focus is on the creation of new, ever-expanding and changing artworks. I feel I am on the precipice of a new creative journey so I guess all I can say right now is “watch this space.” View some of Tracie’s pieces here

Local Profiles

It’s never too late to become a model!

  Model-turned-agent Monique Jeremiah is taking bold strides to showcase diverse talent on the Gold Coast. We speak with Monique about Diversity Models, her success stories and how she’s driving change one photo shoot at a time. Can you share with us the mission of Diversity Models? We represent confidence, curves & culture – we want to challenge the existing modelling industry and encourage businesses to recognise the value of diversity in marketing and branding. We specialise in casting unique multicultural, curve and mature aged models aged 30 plus for print, social media and TVC campaigns. Our aim is to promote self-confidence and cast models who are naturally beautiful, relatable and have an everyday appeal so that they resonate with customers of our clients. How did you get started setting up an agency, and how did you bring initial talent to your books? In July 2022 I started Diversity Models completely spontaneously after many people were asking me whether I owned a modelling agency – in my spare time I was modelling on the side for fun. However, during Covid, I realised I truly enjoyed the networking, marketing and public relations side of modelling. So, I created an industry-breaking agency where I managed models just like myself and gave businesses what they needed and lacked – faces of diversity. I recruited our talent through initially advertising on my own Facebook profile and then naturally I created a FOMO culture. Now we have such an amazing team of models which is growing! How much of the fashion industry do you think is truly committed to using diverse models? Personally, I believe that the industry is still lacking diverse models and this is very evident on reality TV – I just came back from Farmer Wants a Wife and saw it first-hand. Whilst filming, I was only 1 of 2 diverse faces on screen – the evidence is there, diversity needs to be included and not just tokenised. What is your advice to a woman at any age who is keen to start modelling? I would say it’s never too late to become a model – I entered the industry at 30 as a mature-aged model. It is vital that you are already self-confident, have strong self-esteem and can take rejection. Being an excellent team player and entering the industry with an open mind and no ego is essential, as it takes time, experience and relationship building to become excellent and known in this creative profession. I look for natural beauty, unique cultural combinations and models who have taken the time to look after themselves mentally and physically as women. I love models who are highly team players, supportive of other women and have a positive personality. What do you love about living and working on the Gold Coast, and do you feel consumers here are wanting even more diverse models? I love living here as it is very relaxed, it is an entrepreneurs’ paradise and it is a great home base. I’ve been here 27 years. Consumers here want more diverse and natural models as they are tired of the typical Barbie doll plastic image of the past on the Gold Coast.