Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I don’t like not wearing socks! A lot of my friends think it’s strange, but I don’t like having my toes out – unless I’m wearing heels then it’s alright.
What are you most passionate about?
I am an upcoming bodybuilder for WBFF here in Australia so I’m very passionate about my fitness, and am also studying to become a personal trainer and helping other people create sustainable and healthier lifestyles in and out of the gym.
What do you love about bodybuilding?
I love the community and personal development that comes with it – the industry receives a lot of stigma from the outside, but when you’re in it, everyone is just so supportive and uplifting. Some of the skills you pick up around discipline, time management, and mental strength both in and out of the gym have been some of the most life-changing values that I will carry with me through life.
What would your last meal be?
A good, homemade, mac and cheese for sure! Lots of bacon, lots of cheese – just give me the carbs!
What was your most memorable moment?
I was on a leadership course a couple of years ago, and part of that was to tackle a high-ropes course and we went caving at Waitomo in New Zealand. My caving group went into the middle of a cave, all sat on a rock in the pitch black surrounded by glow worms, and one of the girls sang a very beautiful Māori waiata (song) that was just very powerful in the moment. It was very humbling and emotional and that memory has stuck with me since.
What was your favourite subject in school?
I have to say the social sciences were right up my alley. I went to university to do a BA in International Relations and Media, and have always been interested in how foreign politics and inter-country relations work.
What event, past or present, would you like to witness?
I actually would have loved to witness Nelson Mandella’s “I have a dream” speech because it’s a staple in global history and was one of the more interesting topics I studied at university.
Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?
Have to have Chris Hemsworth, Jay Shetty, my best friends Abby and Dominic from home, my coach Casey Glase and I’d have to add my Granddad as well.
What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?
I’m currently reading Jordan B. Peterson’s 12 Rules for Life and I always listen to a few podcasts – top three would be Jay Shetty’s On Purpose Podcast, The Bikini and The Brain with Adam Bonilla and Ashley Kaltwasser, and The One Up Project by Sarah Kelsey.
How would you describe your fashion sense?
Comfortable and active, before I came in as a journalist with Star News Group I basically was always in activewear or something comfortable. In the office I’d say it’s quite classic, high waisted work pants and a comfy tee (I definitely need an office attire upgrade!).
Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life?
I have, my only pet that I’ve ever had was my cat Merlin. I accidentally ended up adopting him in my later university days, and he was my number one buddy for almost four years before I moved to Pakenham. I keep a polaroid of him in my wallet from the day he caught his first bird.
If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?
I am a sucker for a fancy meal and getting creative, however, I think I’d go for a pan-fried salmon with creamy mashed potatoes and some greens on the side with a nice buttery sauce.
What is your dream holiday destination?
Greece for sure, I have a bad obsession with Mamma Mia and would love to visit the Mediterranean and see some of the film sites (maybe even remake a few of the dance scenes) .
What were you like as a kid?
My family would say I’ve always been very mature and independent for my age as I’ve grown up. I’ve always been a bit of a nerd with a lot of curiosity, and very adventurous. It definitely shows in my adult years.
What is your favourite colour and why?
Yellow – but a nice bright yellow like a fresh lemon. I feel like you can’t be sad when you see that particular colour, it’s just a nice happy colour!
What was your first job?
My first job was back in my hometown of Whakatāne (Fa-Ka-Ta-Ne) in New Zealand and I worked in an orchard store selling fresh produce and managing the storefront, and from time to time I’d help out the back with packing. It was a real country bumpkin job.
What are the three most used apps on your phone?
Instagram, TikTok and my Spotify easily.
What’s one question you have never been able to get the answer to?
Where do all of my socks keep disappearing to?!
