Being a professional surfer is the greatest job in the world. The ocean is my office, nature is my business partner, and the industry is the best it’s ever been. Being a part of elite women’s surfing right now is such a privilege. It’s been a wild ride so far, and I can’t wait to see what’s around the corner.

That’s me having the time of my life on my boogie board at Gerroa beach, on the South Coast of New South Wales. I’m lucky to say I still have that much fun in the ocean every day. Pretty soon after this picture was taken I upgraded to my very first surfboard, out the back with my three big brothers. I didn’t care if I was younger or smaller than them, always wanted to be able to do everything they could.

But surfing wasn’t my only love. As a kid, I ran track, played soccer, touch, footy, as many sports as I could fit in. Running to gold medals in the 800m and 1500m at the Youth Olympics in 2007 was definitely a highlight for me. I’ve always wanted to represent Australia. I firmly believe that we can all achieve anything we put our mind to.

When I was 17, I won the World Surf League Qualifying Series in a whirlwind – I was the youngest and fastest to ever qualify for the world tour. It solidified the career path I had imagined, and I haven’t looked back.

I’ve been on tour for over 15 years now, and over time, the whole experience weaves this tapestry of wins and losses, highs and lows, that makes you the competitor that you are today. And sharing that journey with you is what brings it all to life. The fans on the beach, my family back home in Gerroa watching live at 2 am, it still blows me away and it’s part of the reason I’m still competing today.

Fitness is such an integral part of everything I do on tour. I love discovering new ways to move and challenge my body, to be stronger, fitter and more powerful in the water. Nothing compares to the confidence that comes from that kind of inner strength – it’s infectious.

I firmly believe that our fitness, well-being, and self-confidence are all connected in that philosophy. It’s about real strength, functional fitness and a holistic view to creating better health. You just need to make a start 🙂

My #1 goal is still my surfing career – I want to win world title events and compete as long as I can. I’m still an athlete first and foremost. But building something that’s bigger than me – that’s what really makes it meaningful, sharing my experiences and connecting with the next generation.  My objective is simple: connect many, inspire more, energise all to live active, healthy lifestyles while caring for the environment.