Hello, local Eastern Suburbs Mums friends. I’m founder of The Doula Pod, a service born from my own experiences and challenges in motherhood. My goal is to offer mothers a truly supportive space for education and connection, so every new family feels equipped and confident in the early days of parenthood. I provide birth education, in home practical support, online courses  and newborn care services; with a particular focus on the crucial fourth trimester when a mother’s needs are often overlooked.

My background has always been tied to the vibrant community here in Sydney’s East. I grew up in Perth and moved here at 20, falling in love with the beaches and community spirit. Now in my 40s, it seems I’ve never left! I have called Coogee and Maroubra home for years, and we’re currently settled in Matraville which we are truly loving.

When I’m not working, I’m often at kids’ sports events, shuttling to activities and parties, or hosting sleepovers! I try my best to practice what I preach, making time for myself where I can, and spending cherished moments with my family, which includes my three children, aged 7, 12, and 15, and my supportive husband. 

Doing this article has made me realise how quickly time goes; the last family photo we have all together was in 2020 and had to take a quick couch photo for you all to see my tribe before submitting this.

Where and how long have you lived in Sydney’s east?

I have lived here for 22 years, I have lived from Bondi to Matraville and feel like every suburb in-between.

Three words that describe what it’s like to live in the eastern suburbs?

Community. Family. Ocean Living. 

How many children?

Three! Daughter 7, Son 12 and stepson (my son by love!) 15 Plus our fur baby Atlas 4

Favourite Park?

Cooper Park – truly a hidden rainforest escape that myself and the family love

Favourite Beach?

Malabar Boat Ramp – does that count as a beach!?

Favourite kids friendly cafe?

Courtyard Coogee, plenty of space, outdoors feel (yet so cozy in winter )and very kid friendly

Favourite Coffee Spot?

I still go to Maroubra Bakehouse for my morning coffee even though I am now in Matraville, Johnny and the team are fab.  Coogee Courtyard is also a fave for coffee.

Favourite date night place? 

It’s not very often we get a date night, but I love Sugar Cane. Such great food, cocktails and service. These days date nights are a local walk together.

Where in the east have you yet to explore and would like to go?

Ooooh, great question, I feel like this is a “you don’t know until you know”

 We are always finding new places to explore but haven’t got anything specific on the list.

What would you like to see improve in the eastern suburbs?

I would love to see more dog friendly beaches and more community gardens.

Favourite Local Shop?

San Sebastian! Always great for a last minute gift, kids items or something special for myself!

Favourite wet weather location?

To be honest we usually bunker down in the wet weather, take the opportunity to watch a movie or play uno!

Favourite Local family Weekend Activity?

We try to do things where we can take our dog Atlas, so if there’s no kids sporting commitments we do park adventures. Without the dog we spend a lot of the warmer days paddle boarding and swimming off Malabar Boat Ramp.

Work or SAHM?

I am working, but I feel so grateful that I truly don’t feel like I go to “work” each day. Spending my days supporting families in their fourth trimester to navigate life with a newborn or teach birth education is truly a joy for me.

Motherly advice?

Your superpower is motherhood, however, you don’t have to do it all. Ask for help when you need it. Accept help when it is offered. Take off all the ‘hats’ sometimes and just be.