When it comes to the ultimate “multi-hyphenate,” Gina Kim is in a league of her own. This Gold Coast-based, Korean-born powerhouse began her career as a professional pianist, before trading sheet music for sketches, launching her award-winning fashion label in 2003. Since then, she’s dressed some of the world’s most iconic women, including Nicole Kidman and Kim Kardashian.

But wait—there’s more! Her love of wellness and beauty has led her into exciting new ventures: SKINES, her modern skincare line, and Maison Koko, a premium matcha brand that’s already a hit among wellness enthusiasts. With boundless creativity and a keen eye for detail, Gina’s influence extends far beyond fashion. She’s basically living proof that with talent, vision, and a whole lot of passion, you can truly do it all.

Ready to meet the woman behind it all?

How long have you called the Gold Coast home?
I’ve been a Gold Coast local for almost five years now, having made the move from Brisbane.

What do you love most about living here?
The Gold Coast’s vibrant lifestyle is unmatched. I adore the stunning beaches, the consistently beautiful weather, and the overall sense of community that makes it feel like home.

Can you share a bit about your background?
I was trained as a professional pianist from a young age, which ignited my passion for creativity. However, I found my true calling in fashion design. Now, I’m thrilled to be building my brands: SKINES, a modern skincare line, and Maison Koko, a premium matcha brand. Each venture reflects my love for beauty and wellness.

Tell us about your fashion label, Gina Kim.
Gina Kim launched in 2003 in Brisbane and has since garnered multiple awards, including the RAQ Australian Fashion Supreme Award. My collections have graced the runways of Sydney, Melbourne, New York, LA, and more, earning features in international media. I specialize in ready-to-wear and made-to-measure designs that blend femininity, elegance, and sophistication. Inspired by travel, nature, music, and art, my creations are designed for the worldly woman who embodies confidence and style.

What’s your design process like?
Creating a new collection is a deeply immersive experience. I start with brainstorming themes, colour palettes, and inspirations, compiling them into a mood board. Then, I meticulously source fabrics and materials, bringing each design to life through sampling and refinement.

Who do you envision wearing your designs?
My label has been embraced by a diverse clientele, including iconic figures like Nicole Kidman, Kim Kardashian, and the Minogue sisters. I envision my designs empowering women, accentuating their strengths and making them feel their best during special occasions.

You’ve also launched Maison Koko and Skines. What inspired those ventures?
After years immersed in fashion, I wanted to explore something beyond apparel. The pandemic prompted me to innovate, leading to the creation of my skincare line, SKINES, after two years of careful branding and product development. Maison Koko was born from my travels, particularly my time in Paris and Japan, where I envisioned sharing high-quality products that I truly believe in.

What challenges and opportunities have you encountered?
The global pandemic certainly posed challenges, but it also opened doors for innovation. I focused on adapting quickly and emerging stronger, embracing new potentials in a shifting landscape.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received?
Timing is crucial, but perseverance is key. It’s essential to nurture your team and inspire them to push their boundaries – they’re the backbone of any successful venture.

What does the future hold for Gina Kim, Maison Koko, and SKINES?
I’m excited to continue expanding internationally, exploring opportunities in countries I enjoy visiting, and connecting with new audiences around the globe.

What are your Gold Coast favorites?
Café: 26 & Sunny at The Langham
Restaurant: Rick Shores & Palette
Bar: The Langham Lobby Bar
Beach: Burleigh & Currumbin

How do you like to spend your days off?
I often catch up on work or meet up with friends. When I can, I love to travel and explore new destinations. Each experience fuels my creativity and inspires my work.

For 20% OFF Maison Koko, click here and use the code WELCOME20

Carly Gallagher is a powerhouse Naturopath, Aromatherapist, Yoga Teacher, and go-to wellness coach for middle-aged women navigating hormonal weight gain.

With over two decades of experience in the health space and a personal 8-year journey to overcome her own weight struggles, Carly has honed a unique, science-backed process that resets the metabolic drivers in the microbiome—helping women in their 40s and beyond not only lose weight but keep it off effortlessly. And the best part? Her method is simple and can be done from the comfort of home, without grueling workouts or restrictive diets.

We caught up with Carly to dive deeper into her philosophy, how she’s transformed her own health, and the advice she has for women looking to get back in control of their weight and wellness.

How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I’m a Gold Coast native, having grown up here and attended John Paul College in Daisy Hill. After graduating from The Australian College of Natural Medicine in 1994, I spent some time travelling overseas before settling in Melbourne for about two decades. The allure of the beach brought me back to the Gold Coast in 2020, so I’ve been a local again for the past few years. I wanted my teenage daughter to have the same life I had growing up on the beach.

What do you love most about Gold Coast?
What I love most about the Gold Coast is, without a doubt, the beach – did I mention the beach? It’s not just a coastline; it’s a way of life here. The year-round awesome weather is a close second compared to Melbourne, making every day feel like I just got off a plane in Bali. It’s impossible not to notice how fit and active Gold Coasters are. We’re practically a city that lives in activewear! Whether it’s surfing, jogging on the beach paths, or doing yoga on the foreshores, there’s always someone out there embracing our outdoor lifestyle. The combination of sun, surf, and an active community creates this vibrant, energetic atmosphere that just fills up my heart with love.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a naturopath and yoga teacher with over 25 years of experience in health. My life changed when I entered my 40s during perimenopause 8 years ago (hello hormones!), and I threw myself into women’s health, finding yoga and adding teaching to my toolkit. During COVID, I created a chakra-balancing range of body oils and herbal teas, which I sold at Palm Beach Currumbin markets for a year before my business for women over 40 took off. When I’m not helping my ladies or crafting wellness products, I’m in Currumbin with my cycling-enthusiast husband, our beach-loving 14-year-old daughter, our 2-year-old moodle, two cats, and four chickens. It’s a busy house-hold, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

How did Inner Alchemy come about?
Inner Alchemy’s birth was quite a mystical experience. While studying yoga in Thailand, I had this surreal moment during a deep, ‘woo-woo’ meditation. One minute I’m being guided through a meditation, the next I’m envisioning a new business logo and brand – talk about a creative download! The tetrahedron shape in the logo has three points, representing me, my husband, and our daughter. Plus, being born in March, three has always been my lucky number. Cosmic coincidence? Maybe! At its core, Inner Alchemy embodies my fascination with transformation and change, much like our health journeys in life. It’s all about that magical process of melding and evolving, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary – just like alchemy itself!

Tell us a bit about your program.
My Metabolic programs are tailored for women over 40, focusing on sustainable weight loss and vibrant health. I’ve designed it to work with the body’s natural rhythms, considering hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause.

My programs include curated meal plans, tailored 15-minute ‘fat-burning’ exercise routines, yoga classes and stress management techniques, all easily accessible through my new App. More information can be found at my website.

What makes my approach different is the focus on rest-based weight loss and hormone balancing. I teach ladies to move away from the old ‘eat less, exercise more’ approach because, frankly, it often doesn’t work for women our age.

Instead, I emphasise strategic rest periods, smart nutrition choices, and efficient workouts that boost your metabolism without stressing your body.

My methodology is rooted in naturopathic principles, addressing the root causes of weight gain in mature women. I look at the whole picture – not just diet and exercise but also sleep quality, stress levels, and hormonal balance. My goal is to help women achieve lasting results and feel great in their bodies, without extreme measures or deprivation.

What has been the biggest opportunity and/or challenge so far?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced, which I share with many women over 40, is learning to slow down. We’ve been conditioned to believe that constant hustle and pushing ourselves to the limit is the key to success, especially when it comes to health and fitness.

Rewiring our mindset around rest and recovery, rather than the ‘go-go-go’ mentality we’re used to, has been a significant hurdle. For those who are fit and active, learning to exercise the smart way – with strategic intensity and adequate rest – is often the hardest part of our journeys.

However, this challenge has also presented the greatest opportunity. Embracing a rest-based approach has been incredibly rewarding. It’s opened up a new way of achieving health goals that’s more sustainable and fun. Who would say ‘No’ to a sauna and spa at the Eco Village instead of a workout, especially when it still helps your metabolism!

What is your number 1 hottest tip for women over 40 to start losing weight?
Rest more!!… Resting isn’t just about plonking yourself on the couch. It’s a mindful approach to well-being that goes beyond ‘doing nothing’. We’re talking about finding the balance – not over-exercising, not under-eating, but doing what’s just right for your body. This approach naturally creates more free time to enjoy life and family which incorporates rest. It’s about working smarter, not harder!

What do you love most about working on the Gold Coast?
The fact I get to enjoy a walk on the beach at Tugun with our dog each morning and say hello to all the locals before starting work.

What are your Gold Coast Favourites?
The Gold Coast has really stepped up its cuisine game over the last 4 years. Having moved back from Melbourne, I can honestly say, ‘Well done, Gold Coast!’ for the amazing new restaurants that have opened. It’s hard to pick just one for each, but I have to keep it local for this is where we eat out the most.

Café: ‘Costa Taco in Palm Beach –family-friendly and super tasty
Favourite restaurant: Rabbath Lebanese Bistro in Burleigh – a gorgeous French-Lebanese twist to their menu that is so fresh.
Bar: Our favourite Friday night date night is at our local Little Vine Room in Currumbin.
Beach: Currumbin – of course!

How do you choose to spend your days off?
Did I mention the Currumbin Eco Village? One of my favourite days off would be to have an infrared sauna and bath and dine on their amazing food all situated in nature. I also love gardening and you guessed it… going to the beach!

As the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club celebrates its 100th anniversary, one of its most iconic members, Karla Gilbert, reflects on what it’s like to be part of a club that’s been protecting Australia’s most famous beach for a century. As a professional ironwoman and life member of the club, Karla has played a pivotal role in shaping the surf lifesaving scene, from a pint-sized nipper to a powerhouse IronWoman. From her early days at the club (including losing a board on Mum’s car—oops!)  to her domination in surf sports, Karla’s connection to the club runs deep. She reflects on a life lived by the tides, the incredible legacy of the surf club she calls home and her passion for keeping things salty, strong, and connected.

How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
Since day dot! My parents were among the first to build a house along Murlong Crescent in Tallebudgera in the early 1970s; it is still there today, although we moved to Currumbin Hill for most of my childhood. I have so many memories of visiting dad’s business, Palm Beach Printing, on Palm Beach Avenue as a child, with the smell of freshly printed paper and ink. I am always keen to return home from travelling and always feel proud to call myself GC born and bred!

What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
There aren’t many unexplored stones in the GC anymore, compared to the past when you might find an unexplored spot to appreciate with ease of travel. I feel quite passionate about protecting our natural environment and preserving the unique qualities of the GC. These days, it still seems so simple to start the day with energy by going for a swim, paddle, or walk at sunrise. Particularly if you’re a water baby, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy the beach, the warm weather, and the coastal lifestyle!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Gosh, where do I start… I feel I have lived 3 lives in one. Firstly,  I love sport and in particular surf sports which luckily enough gifted me a career as a professional Ironwoman for 15 years, winning Australian and world titles. It was a crazy time in the sport and obviously living on the GC helped nurture me as an athlete. From here I met my wonderful husband Andrew and we now have 2 busy teenage girls pulling us in every direction!  Business-wise wise I assist clients in nutrition and health through my website and also work alongside LifeChanger Foundation, a mental health and wellbeing preventative for youth,  building out the SE QLD region with school workshops and organising their fundraising adventure challenges. I also help coach a community ocean swimming group, saltwater swimmers which is super rewarding and great to be a part of.

You started your journey in surf lifesaving as a nipper at the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. What are your earliest memories of those days?
I joined Surfers at age 13, after being enticed with a new nipper board (my old one was lost after I forgot to tie it down on mum’s car), and I remember being feeling like I had landed in the right place.  The support from the beginning with the members was amazing and I instantly had an extended family (mainly big brothers!) Females were in minority at the time and Cassandra Segman, another pioneering female athlete helped to pave the way for other females to prove we are just as strong and fierce in the ocean as the males.

How did being part of the SLSC shape your career and your passion for the ocean?
I was always drawn to ocean activities as a child and grew up windsurfing, surfing and swimming, but it was the lure of competing in a changing environment with the challenge of the ocean that really captivated me. In the beginning, Ironwoman racing wasn’t a thing so I watched and modelled my training off the men – thinking that was my destiny until 1990 when the first ironwoman event ever was held and I someone won this as a 15 year old. From there it was a whirlwind and a career I never imagined unfolded which cemented my love and fascination with the ocean.

As Surfers Paradise SLSC celebrates its 100th anniversary, what does it mean to you to be part of such a significant milestone for the club?
I feel very humbled to be involved in the 100 year celebrations of the club, honoring and appreciating everyone who has played a part in protecting one of the busiest beaches in the country. Surfers Paradise beach is one of GC best tourism assests and through seasonal patrols over this time, we have never lost someone in between the flags. We all come and go, and ultimately are custodians in time but Surfers Paradise will always be my home club where I am a proud life member.

You’ve inspired so many women in the sport. What message would you give to young girls aspiring to follow in your footsteps, both in competition and in wellness? Believe in yourself and trust the journey. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, not just in sport but in life. Focus on the small, consistent actions that lead to success, whether it’s training for competition or building healthy habits. Above all, stay true to who you are, find joy in what you do, and remember that balance and self-care are key to sustaining both physical and mental wellness. Dream big and be patient with your progress—it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to get involved with a surf lifesaving club, either as a competitor or as a community volunteer? Joining a surf lifesaving club is a fantastic way to build fitness, community, and life-saving skills. As a competitor, the training is fun but  will push you to your limits, teaching you resilience and mental toughness while offering the camaraderie of a supportive team. Stay committed, and be open to learning from every experience, the ocean is a great teacher for this! As a community volunteer, you’ll have the chance to make a real difference. The sense of fulfillment that comes from protecting others is incredibly rewarding and everyone’s contributions—whether on the beach or behind the scenes—are vital to the safety and success of the community. It’s not just about saving lives; it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself and staying connected with the ocean and the people around you.

What are your Gold Coast Favourites:
Café: Haig Street Cafe, Kirra for breakfast
Restaurant: Any of the surf clubs for great views!
Bar: I’m not a huge drinker but anywhere with a view of the ocean captivates me for one!
Beach: The Alley

How do you choose to spend your days off?
Days off are a rare commodity but if I have the chance I am pottering around the house, after a morning swim and coffee at Tallebudgera. If the surf is good a lunchtime surf is on order, after the crowds have gone then a family BBQ to round off the day.