Celebrant, MC, Holistic Counsellor and MAFS bride.
Celebrant, MC, Holistic Counsellor and MAFS bride.
It’s not every day you meet someone whose name matches their vibe so perfectly, but Lucinda Light is exactly that – a bona fide ray of sunshine. Let’s face it, with a name like hers, it’s practically written in the stars. Lucinda has just announced an exciting new chapter in her dazzling journey, she’ll be hosting Intrepid Travel’s Find Your Light: Daintree and Cape Tribulation Adventure in tropical Queensland. A mix of adventure, connection, and self-discovery? Yes, please!
For Lucinda, this trip is more than just a travel itinerary – it’s a chance to help Aussies hit the pause button on life’s obligations and reconnect with their true priorities. Intrepid’s recent research backs her up: 85% of us are feeling the pressure to say “yes” to things we’d rather skip, while over half wish they could say “yes” to more travel. Lucinda is here to light the way (pun absolutely intended) to a life of joy, freedom, and adventure.
So, whether you’re looking to reconnect with your partner, recharge your soul, or just bask in the natural beauty of the Daintree Rainforest, this journey promises to be transformative. Read on for our illuminating chat with the woman who’s making it all happen!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’ve just returned from an amazing trip across Europe, visiting the UK, Scotland, and Ireland, filming my TV show. It’s a fun mix of cabaret, comedy, and life lessons. I can’t wait to share it – it’s been such a hoot!
I’ve also been busy writing my book, and since MAFS, I’ve really embraced my passion path; I feel incredibly blessed.
With close to 650,000 followers on Instagram, you’ve become one of Australia’s most beloved reality stars. How do you navigate that kind of attention and stay true to yourself
It’s definitely a bit of a whirlwind, but I’m loving every second of it. I try to stay grounded by focusing on things that matter to me – like my home, my passion projects, and the things that bring me joy.
I live a quiet life in the bush along the Great Ocean Road. My home is my sanctuary; I love cooking, going to the beach, and staying connected to nature.
When people recognise me, it’s always such a lovely experience, especially when they resonate with the work I’m putting out there. I find that focusing on the things I love keeps me true to myself.
I also have fun on Instagram and TikTok! It’s heartwarming to connect with people and see them resonate with my work. It’s all been such a loving and beautiful experience.
Tell us about the ‘Find Your Light: Daintree and Cape Tribulation Adventure.’
This adventure has been such an exciting project for me! It’s all about reconnecting with ourselves through nature and wellness. The trip is set in one of my favorite parts of the world, and it’s been designed to help people reset through a mix of holistic tools – yoga, somatics, dance and relaxation – to name a few! We will all get in touch with ourselves and come out lighter!
The beauty of this trip is how much it allows people to connect with both themselves and others and leave feeling restored, renewed, and inspired. It’s so lovely to bring like-minded people together, get down with our big, bad selves and just be immersed in nature.
How does this journey blend adventure, self-discovery and connection?
It will be an adventure every day. We’ll be exploring the beautiful surrounds, focusing on soul connection and moving with intention. From dance parties to emotional intelligence sessions to tropical fruit tastings, this journey will focus on holistic tools, all designed to help people get in touch with themselves.
The natural environment is so nurturing and healing – it’s the perfect setting for self-discovery and connection. Being immersed in nature, connecting and breathing in that fresh air makes it all so magical.
You’ve spoken about saying “yes” to what matters. What advice do you have for people looking to create more space for joy and adventure in their lives?
What you focus on expands. I truly believe that. So, if you focus on joy, self-love, and self-care, that’s what you’ll attract into your life. The trip is all about giving people the opportunity to reset and have an adventure – it’s a gift to yourself. Take time to prioritise yourself, focus on what brings you happiness, and create space for fun and adventure. The more you do that, the more you’ll see how much life has to offer.
It’s also like my two worlds colliding, as I actually used to work for Intrepid and I truly love the region. I call it the lungs of Australia, the rainforest creates so much oxygen – it’s divine!
From reality TV to real-life adventures, what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about connection and self-awareness?
The more we do the inner work, the better connected we can be with ourselves and others. It all starts within – self-awareness is the cornerstone of everything. The more we get to know ourselves and accept our blind spots and patterns, the more authentic we can be in our relationships.
Taking time to process life and check in with ourselves is so important. Humans can emit negativity. You have to take the time to put down devices, go within and be with yourself – just process life. Maybe that’s with a therapist? Whatever tool works for you.
The more self awareness we can cultivate, the better our lives will be. It’s so beautiful how we can connect with nature and others, but it starts with ourselves.
What’s next for Lucinda Light?
I’m focused on finishing my book, my show and leading this transformative trip. After that, I’m planning a well-deserved break this summer!
What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Fox’s Pantry for the best wraps
Restaurant: Frida Sol for their amazing tacos on Tuesday nights
Bar: Miami Marketta has such incredible food and atmosphere
Beach: I love Burleigh and Currumbin, where the river meets the ocean. Tallebudgera is also divine. And the Eco Village in Currumbin is amazing for a sauna or spa.
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I’m a true Cancerian woman – I love being at home, swimming in the ocean, cooking, and creating art. My sanctuary keeps me grounded, but I also love a good adventure in nature.
Some of you may recognise Sasha Mielczarek as a former Bachie contestant, but he’s left the reality TV world far behind and is busy kicking goals as a business owner, builder and family man. Last year was super busy for Sasha as he married the love of his life, completed a stunning renovation on a Bowral property and opened LOCAL in Burleigh. We’re officially exhausted just reading that! We chatted to Sasha about his many ongoing projects and what he loves about living on the Gold Coast.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I moved here in 2019 to pursue an opportunity with some close mates of mine in construction. Quite different to Country NSW where I grew up but I’m embracing the lifestyle of the Gold Coast and everything that comes with it.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I grew up in Western Sydney and Country NSW. Spent a bit of time in Canberra where I went to Uni (studied Engineering/Commerce) and played footy. Played a bit of footy overseas in England and the US.
I started in Construction in 2007 (both commercial and residential) and never looked back. Loved understanding and learning how things were built (must be the engineering brain). This extended past construction and with the influence of my Dad and Step Dad developed a passion for classic cars and bikes (I’m currently building a 1969 Dodge Charger in the US and am just about to finish a 1959 Cadillac here in QLD).
Given a close history with prostate cancer I actively support the Movember Foundation and Men’s health in general having raised close to $90k in 20 years. The biggest thing I encourage everyone to do is to go get a health check on a yearly basis as it could mean the difference between getting something early and getting on top of it OR leaving it too late.
I relocated to the Coast in 2019 where I switched from builder side to subbie side and took up a position as Operations Manager for a facade company that two good mates of mine started back in 2008. These two fellas (Nick and Jack) have also given me a number of other opportunities which I’m extremely grateful for. Putting work aside I have an amazing family, 2 brothers and a sister ( Jay, Jedd and Charlie), a beautiful niece and nephew (Isobel and Reggie), an amazing wife (Carly), a beautiful little puppy (Sadie) and a close-knit friend group. Hopefully, a few ‘tin lids’ (kids) in the future, who knows? Definitely getting in some practice haha I’m extremely close with my mother (Kym) and literally owe everything I have as well as all my successes to her. My parents worked tirelessly to afford me the greatest opportunities in life and I feel extremely fortunate to have them by my side every step of the way.
You recently opened LOCAL in Burleigh. What made you want to get into the hospitality scene on the Gold Coast?
It’s always been a dream of mine and there were limited places I genuinely enjoyed going for a beer that had it all i.e. Good food, drinks, live music, an outdoor beer garden, like-minded people and just a nice space for all occasions.
I was lucky enough to be given an opportunity to jump on board with some close mates of mine who were already in the hospo space and that’s when we stumbled across the old Harry’s site. We always had intentions of doing something great, it just took a bit longer than we first hoped. But we wanted to make sure we did it once and did it right. That’s when LOCAL Burleigh was born and the response has been truly overwhelming.
Side note, would like to thank the Locals and everyone who has come in and continues to pay homage and support us. Locals supporting LOCAL… How many times you think I can say Local in a paragraph, haha!
You have a number of other projects, including a coworking space in Burleigh. Tell us about that.
I seem to jump from one thing to another. It’s usually the odd house on the side however this time my business partners and I decided to do a shared office space on the main strip of Burleigh, James Street. We saw a gap in the market for a professional co-working community (namely those in the construction space). Rather than having people come and go we wanted to create a community of like-minded people where those on board could share information and ideas to help build and grow their own business. Since opening in late 2022 we’ve been full books and have a number of different businesses on deck including a Project Marketing Company, a Structural Engineering Firm and a Facade Company amongst a number of others. Given its success, we are looking to create another Blank Space in the near future so watch this space.
What has been the biggest opportunity and/or challenge so far for you?
Opportunities as mentioned above.
Biggest challenges: Personally – trying to find my feet on the Gold Coast having moved from Country NSW as well as finding a solid friend group and a partner. It’s taken time but I managed to do both.
Professionally – establishing a new business is always challenging little lone making it successful. Still navigating our way through and always looking to continually improve but heading in the right direction.
What do you love most about living on the Gold Coast?
The lifestyle and weather. Being an early riser it’s good to have the sun come up early and make the most of the day. Also being so close to the beach and the vast array of things to do. Growing up it was the local skate park or meet down at the 7/11 with the lads in a VL commie (Commodore) for a Friday night soiree. Being on the Gold Coast I can still do that but there are also so many other activities right at your doorstep to make the most of.
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café: I recently discovered Bear Boy Espresso up at Hope Island and it’s bloody fantastic. Everything from the food, to the coffee and the staff was all time.
Coffee spot: Not just saying it because I have a vested interest in the joint but love the coffee at LOCAL. We get our beans from Bellissimo coffee in Bulimba where I first met my beautiful wife. So having that tie makes it a bit spesh. I also love the coffee at Chut & Co in Mermaid. A mate of mine, Joey recently gave up his job in Construction to open up a cafe of all things and he’s killing it. To be honest much better cafe owner than builder haha (he’ll love this when he reads it).
Restaurant: Got a few however my wife and I are all over Sofia’s in Broadbeach like cheap suit at the moment. Also, can’t really go past Etsu. Always on point!
Bar or pub for a drink: Of course, LOCAL Burleigh but also love the Crab Pot down on the water. Good crew of local lads down there and it reminds me of home (with a slightly better view and a tab).
How do you choose to spend your weekends?
I’m always on the go however recently my wife and I have tried to take a step back and enjoy quality time together. We love the odd bike ride up to Main Beach from Burleigh, jumping on the Jet ski and going for a cruise up North, taking our little puppy for a run around down the Alley or simply going out and trying new places. Literally living up all the Goldie has to offer.
From Melbourne hustle to Gold Coast bustle, Cat Sanz and her fam swapped skyscrapers for surfboards in 2021, and haven’t looked back! She’s a mum of three, entrepreneur and one of our go-tos for all things effortlessly chic.
Cat’s journey from fashion designer to content creator is like a perfectly styled outfit—layered with passion, sprinkled with inspiration and always on-trend. She started sharing her daily real estate office fits on insta and has since built a thriving styling business. Her top tip? Wear what makes you happy—confidence never goes out of style!
Read on to learn more about Cat, including some of her style tips, including that boho is back, sheer is chic, and logos are so last season.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
We moved here in 2021.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
The lifestyle here is what we love so much, we came from Melbourne and life was so hectic in city living. Here on the coast we can cruise into our weekends and spend a lot more time focused on family and nature.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a mum of 3 with a degree in marketing and previously a fashion designer and a social media coach. I have owned and worked in businesses for a long time before creating my own styling content business, which I love. Both hubby and I are entrepreneurs and love to travel, we are lucky enough to have built businesses and life that allows us to work around the world.
You’re one of our go-tos for outfit inspiration. How did you get started as a content creator?
Oh, thank you so much. My content creation started off by sharing my daily outfits whilst working in one of our businesses (real estate). It was a way to share how I was rediscovering my style after having kids, a journey so many women find after having kids and changing careers that our wardrobes and personal style changes so much.
Can you give us your top 3 styling tips?
• Wear what makes you happy, when you feel good in your clothes you will inevitably share that confidence in how you put yourself out there in the world.
• Layering (where possible) will always look chic
• Identify your jewellery style and lean in on it, the most basic of outfits will always be elevated with some jewellery pieces.
What items are you loving at the moment?
• Maxi skirts & column dresses
• Printed Tshirts
• Great sunglasses
What trends do you think will be huge this year coming into spring and summer?
• Sheer outfits
• Crochet
• Boho
• Maxi Skirts and Column dresses
• Thongs (Sandals)
What trend is it time to say goodbye to?
Too many logos in one outfit.
What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Tarte Bakery
Restaurant: Labart and Little Itoshin
Bar: Rosella’s
Beach: Cabarita otherwise Burleigh North
How do you choose to spend your days off?
We hit the Burleigh markets of a Saturday and then generally pick a beach somewhere on the coastline, set up for a few hours to play, collect shells, body surf and hang out before grabbing some lunch and returning home to chill.
Hubby and I try to grab a meal out on a Friday lunch or a weekend when we can.
After 15 years competing as an IronMan Matt Poole announced his retirement earlier this year. In a fitting full-circle moment his last competition was held at Kurrawa, where he made his debut in 2007. We chatted to the new father about his drive to become a professional sportsman, what he loves about the Gold Coast and why he won’t be waiting for a cooked duck to land in his mouth!
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I moved to the Gold Coast from Sydney when I was 18. I’ve been here on the GC the entire time except for 6 years on the Sunshine Coast.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I moved to the GC at 18 to pursue my sporting dream of becoming a professional IronMan, I spent 15 years racing professionally only just retiring earlier this year in April. Highlights of my sporting career include winning the 2017 Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain IronMan series, 2022 Shaw & Partners Shannon Eckstein Ironman classic, 2014 Molokai2Oahu World paddle board championships and winning gold at the ISA games in Fiji for team Australia. Outside of my sporting career I’ve got two businesses where I am a co-owner, MAMAN Bar & Kitchen in James St Burleigh and Gravity Seltzer.
Who/what inspired you to pursue a professional career as an ironman?
I grew up at the beach and fell in love with the ocean from a very young age. My Dad would take me in the water with him and pushed me into waves on a surfboard. I played a lot of sports growing up, but Surf Life Saving was my calling and through my teenage years really started to succeed and do well. I first qualified for the professional Ironman series at age 18.
Do you have any advice for aspiring athletes?
The life of a professional athlete is tough.. it takes hard work, dedication, sacrifice and resilience. Work hard, enjoy what you are doing and make it your passion!
How do you define success?
Success can be defined or measured a million different ways from a million different people. For me specifically success was always determined by training, racing and competing at my optimum. Winning races is the ultimate reflection of success, but sometimes for me I raced amazing, didn’t win and still deemed it a success.
In 2020 you teamed up with Oli Frost on opening Maman Bar and Kitchen. What made you want to get into the hospitality scene on the Gold Coast?
Oli Frost is a good friend of mine, he’s got one of the best business minds I know so when he came to me with an opportunity to partner up with him and launch MAMAN here on the Gold Coast, I jumped at it! We opened at the start of Covid which was always a risk, but even that aside we have continued to grow from strength to strength and are now a known and loved restaurant here on the coast.
You announced your retirement from competition earlier this year. Talk us through that decision.
I announced my retirement earlier this year in Feb, I still had a few more major events to round out the season but the timing felt right. 15 years racing professionally and I never left a stone unturned with my training and preparation. It takes its toll on the body physically and also mentally. I love racing and I love winning, when you lose motivation and you’re constantly getting injured it makes training suffer which in turn affects performance.. having said that, after I announced my retirement, I had my best results in Kellogg’s & Summer of Surf series races, but I enjoyed to go out on top, haha.
What’s next for Matt Poole?
My life has transitioned/ changed massively since finishing up my athlete career. I now have my beautiful daughter Posy who is 4 months old, I’m working with Gravity Seltzer to unlock new venues on and off premise for both our alcoholic and Non- Alcoholic range. I’m working on a podcast which is set to launch early 2023 and I’m also doing some commentary work with ch7 this season for Summer of Surf.
Health and wellness is obviously an integral part of your life, how do you intend to continue to incorporate that into your daily routine?
I thought after retirement I would take a long hiatus from any forms of training, however I quickly realised how much I love and miss that feeling you get after a hard session. Although I’m not training like a professional athlete, I still love staying fit and healthy. Mostly I go to gym, run, ocean swim, surf and a little Ocean Ski paddling.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
Best advice I have ever been given… It’s more of a quote but it’s still advice: “The hunter who waits for the cooked duck to land in his mouth, is going to be a hungry hunter” – It’s weird, but since retiring I’ve realised you have to work hard for everything in life. You can’t just wait around for opportunities to land at your doorstep.
What do you love most about living on the Gold Coast?
I love the beaches, restaurants and warm weather! I live a stone’s throw from the beach and waking up, going for a morning ocean swim and grabbing a coffee on the way home is the perfect way to start any day!
Do you have any Gold Coast favourites you keep going back to?
Café/Coffee spot: The Kiosk Burleigh Pav
Restaurant: MAMAN
Bar or place for a drink: Burleigh Pav
Beach: Burleigh
How do you choose to spend your weekends?
I love spending my weekends eating out, surfing, fishing and having a drink with mates.
