Author: Tanya

Meet Larissa, overseas traveller, community service worker & her wild & unpredictable hair!

“I like to see people light up when they see a solution or a glimpse of hope.”

In my daily life, I find purpose in reaching out to the homeless, deeply connecting with my community. It’s not just a job; it’s a mission, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves support. Every day, as I walk the streets, the challenges I face align with the idea that we should lift each other up. Reflecting on my journey, the joy in people’s eyes when they see a solution aligns with my commitment to making a positive impact. This passion goes beyond professional gains—it’s about empowering others and creating a community where simple acts of kindness have a profound impact.

“I’m so glad I jumped into the unknown.”

Leaving my stable retail job was a leap into the unknown, a pursuit of balance and meaning. Striving for this balance became a guiding principle in my life, a commitment to ongoing self-discovery. This journey reflects my dedication to personal growth and the idea that each of us has the power to shape our own story. It’s not about complex terms; it’s about taking risks, finding meaning, and continuously evolving.

“I have been to 20+ countries and intend to travel to many more.”

Now, I’m comfortable in my own skin. As a person in a larger body, I once wanted to change, but now I embrace myself with happiness and self-value. I’ve come to appreciate not just my unique qualities but also the amazing places my body has taken me. This journey showcases the transformative power of self-acceptance in simple, relatable terms.

“I love my hair it is wild and unpredictable.”

Let’s talk about my hair—it’s wild and unpredictable. I used to spend years straightening and styling it, but now I let it be, appreciating its natural beauty. This shift reflects a broader theme of embracing authenticity, whether in ourselves or in the untamed essence of our wild curls.

“Be kind to yourself, You are enough take time to reflect and rest.”

Dreaming of a beachside home isn’t about following trends; it’s a testament to resilience and the pursuit of a meaningful existence. Shaped by lessons learned, this journey showcases a commitment to authentic aspirations, embodying fulfillment rather than societal expectations. It’s not about complex dreams but empowering oneself to chase authentic aspirations and shape meaningful goals.

Meet Jennifer, wife, mother & grandmother with a passion for everything outdoors!

“I can’t believe I’m adding modelling to my life’s adventures.”

“Wow, here I am at 58, approaching the big 60, and I can’t believe I’m adding modelling to my life’s adventures.” It’s a sentiment that fills me with both excitement and gratitude. The incredible opportunity to be a part of OceanRoad swimwear’s collection has been a joy beyond measure. Their unwavering belief in celebrating “us ladies” is truly inspiring, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.

“Throughout my life, I’ve often been labelled a ‘big girl’.”

Throughout my life, I’ve often been labelled a ‘big girl’. Born at a whopping 9 pounds and 9 ounces, standing tall at 175 centimetres, and sporting a size 10 foot, it’s no wonder that societal standards can make you feel less than happy about your body. Stepping into this modelling role required some inner work and self-acceptance, a journey that continues to evolve.

“Plenty of time for rest when you’re dead.”

I’m also a proud mother to two beautiful daughters and a loving stepmother to three wonderful children and their partners. Besides, I’m blessed with six amazing grandchildren. My commitment to staying fit and healthy is driven by my life motto, “Plenty of time for rest when you’re dead.” I live an active life filled with camping, hiking, fishing, golfing, gardening, and daily walks, aiming to reach my 10,000 steps a day.

To maintain balance, I adhere to what I call the “FER theory”:

1. Food: Eat well
2. Exercise: Find enjoyment in it
3. Rest: Prioritize sleep

This, coupled with my mobile meditation (yes, those 10,000 steps), has been my secret weapon in navigating the challenges of menopause and nurturing my mental well-being.

“Yes, you can be sun-smart and still bit sassy!”

Years of outdoor work and play have left their mark on my skin. Growing up without sun hats or sunscreen and opting for coconut oil sunbathing in our teenage years took a toll. That’s why I was ecstatic about OceanRoad swimwear’s range, which prioritizes sun safety without compromising on style. Yes, you can be sun-smart and still be sassy!

“Here’s to the next chapter of life’s incredible journey!”

My husband, Rick, and I embarked on a grand adventure in late September 2022, accompanied by our beloved 10-year-old Labrador, Marley, a true heartbreaker. Our planned 12-month journey has taken us across vast landscapes, from crossing the Nullarbor into South Australia, venturing through Victoria, up into New South Wales, across Queensland, and over to NT where I met Tanya who offered me the chance to model some of her collection.

Life at 58 is about embracing new opportunities, celebrating the skin you’re in, and embarking on epic adventures with loved ones. Here’s to the next chapter of life’s incredible journey!

Fill our application form below if you are interested in being our next meet the models model?

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Meet Nicole, a proud Darwinian, fitness enthusiast & fabulous in her 50’s

“I love the vibrant, humid atmosphere of my hometown.”

As a proud Darwinian through and through. I have a deep-rooted love for the vibrant, humid atmosphere of my hometown. It’s a place that’s close to my heart, and I’m passionate about being an active member of its wonderful community.

“I grappled with maintaining a healthy weight,”

For the better part of my life, I grappled with maintaining a healthy weight. It wasn’t until I reached my late 40’s that I decided I would reignited my passion for fitness. I was fortunate to have the guidance of an exceptional personal trainer named Paul Fogg. With unwavering determination, I threw myself into the gym, primarily focusing on resistance training. It was during this journey that I had a profound realisation: consistency in weight training and sensible eating was the key to sustaining a healthy weight.

“The absence of alcohol brought a newfound sense of clarity and well-being.”

Around the same time I embarked on my fitness journey, I unintentionally made another significant change in my life. I decided to give up drinking alcohol, and once I did, I never looked back. The initial decision wasn’t driven by a conscious choice to quit; it just happened. However, I quickly realised that the absence of alcohol brought a newfound sense of clarity and well-being. I no longer had to contend with the discomfort of hangovers, and my overall health improved.

“I’ve bid farewell to the endless cycle of yo-yo dieting.”

Fast-forward five years, and I can proudly say that I’ve bid farewell to the endless cycle of yo-yo dieting. Many of my friends are curious about how I’ve managed to stay fit and fabulous in my 50s. My answer has remained consistent—three times a week, I commit to resistance training and incorporate regular walks into my lifestyle. Of course, maintaining sensible eating habits plays a pivotal role.

“I’ve learned to embrace and love the skin I’m in.”

It’s been quite a journey, but today, at the age of 53, I can honestly say I’ve never been happier or healthier. My perspective on body image has transformed—I’m no longer chasing after the elusive ideal of a “skinny” woman. Instead, I’ve learned to embrace and love the skin I’m in. It’s not about being a certain size; it’s about feeling confident, strong, and content with who I am. I owe this transformation to my commitment to fitness, sensible eating, and the support of my incredible community here in Darwin. Life is a journey, and I’m savouring every moment of it, happier and healthier than ever before.

Meet Devi, Darwin resident & adventurer of both the physical & spiritual

“Believe, Belong & Be Brave”

“A battle against self-doubt and self-criticism”

Throughout most of my life, I wrestled with a profound conflict regarding my body and presence. These feelings of restlessness, loss, and mistaken identity have led me on countless adventures, both physical and spiritual, from wandering the streets of Paris to trekking through tropical rainforests. It often felt like I was merely a shadow of others, unsure of my own path and purpose. This inner struggle, a battle against self-doubt and self-criticism, was a weight I carried for far too long.

“I’ve learned to believe in myself and my values.”

Reflecting on my five decades of discovery on this beautiful earth, surrounded by incredible people, I’ve come to realise that it all boils down to three magical words:

Believe – I’ve learned to believe in myself and my values. The journey of self-discovery has shown me that my beliefs are my guiding star, helping me navigate life’s twists and turns.

Belong – Embracing myself in my entirety, from my skin to my soul, has been a profound revelation. I’ve found a sense of belonging within my own being, accepting every facet of who I am.

Brave – In embracing my true self, I’ve mustered the courage to face any challenges that come my way. These challenges aren’t primarily from external sources but often arise from within, as I confront my own doubts and fears.

“Today, I feel a sense of liberation and contentment that I once thought impossible”

Through the transformative power of healing, self-discovery, and self-compassion, I’ve reached a place of profound gratitude for who I am, just as I am. Today, I stand at ease with myself, feeling a sense of liberation and contentment that I once thought impossible. It’s a journey that has led me to discover the beauty in embracing my authentic self. Being a part of Ocean Road Swimwear resonates deeply with these sentiments. This brand reflects the values of self-acceptance, authenticity, and celebrating one’s true essence.

“Shine brightly in your own unique way”

As I continue on my journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance, I extend my hand to anyone who may be on a similar path. Let us all believe in ourselves and our values, find our sense of belonging within, and muster the bravery to face life’s challenges. Each of us is unique and beautiful, deserving of love and acceptance. Together, we can create a world where self-love and self-compassion flourish, allowing individuals to shine brightly in their own unique way.

Meet Olushola, Katherine resident, disability support worker & dream chaser

“Never give up your dreams”

“It has always been my dream to walk on a run way stage”

I never imagined myself as a model, but life’s surprises can be wonderful. It has always been my dream to walk on a run way stage. So I couldn’t ignore the chance and volunteered. Dressing up has always been my passion, and this opportunity brought my runway dreams to life.

“Life is about doing what you love”

Life is all about doing what you love. For me, that includes singing and dancing to my heart’s content. I also have a serious case of wanderlust, and you can often find me exploring new places, savouring delicious food, and sharing hearty laughter with friends.

“I’ve learned to embrace change”

My journey took an unexpected turn when I moved from Sydney to Katherine, Australia. Change can be challenging, but it can also be the catalyst for personal growth. I’ve learned that embracing change is essential to living a fulfilling life. It was this change that eventually led me to where I am today.

“Caring for others is my passion”

With a nursing background, my true calling emerged as a disability support worker. Caring for others is my passion, and I approach each day with dedication. In the future, I aspire to be a child protection specialist, championing the rights of vulnerable children.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through life’s ups and downs. I hope my story inspires you to embrace change, follow your passions, and never give up your dreams. After all, the best is yet to come!

Meet Lwana, domestic violence survivor, mother of two & wanna be ‘curvy Bond girl’

EMBRACE YOUR CURVES LADIES. EMBRACE YOUR DIVERSITY AND BEAUTY.

“Embrace your beauty. Embrace your body.”

So here I am, on behalf of OceanRoad Swimwear – I am a real woman (not a professional model), 47 years of age, plus-size mother to two young boys. I have worked in Accounts for 25 years for many different organisations. Whilst I am not a professional model, I have had previous modelling experience from the age of 2, for Mother Care in London and I continue to do photo shoots as a hobby to boost my self-esteem and confidence.

“Find the strength to see your beauty, worthiness and realise that there is only one unique YOU in life.”

My life’s biggest challenge has been a long-term survivor of domestic violence in my late 20’s. Apart from flashbacks of physical trauma, my self-esteem and confidence were smashed. However, I did find courage to open my heart to someone else, fall in love and marry again. It was a slow process rebuilding from past trauma and my greatest accomplishment was deciding to do some photo shoots to boost my confidence and self-esteem. To any survivors of domestic violence, find the strength to see your beauty, worthiness and realise that there is only one unique YOU in life. You are fierce and brave. Embrace that.

“I know my rolls are here to stay! So, to all you curvy ladies out there, you are not alone. Hold your head high! You got this!”

My body has also suffered from severe endometriosis and I am blessed to have even fallen pregnant. I have fluid retention because of pre-eclampsia which resulted in two premature births, with the second being the most traumatic after nearly losing my life. With my 29 week gestation son being resuscitated at birth, I am blessed he is a happy, cheeky 9-year-old and that his learning disability makes him unique. With the challenges of raising a special needs child, gone are the days of having ‘me’ time going to the hairdresser or getting a facial. After having two children and post medical issues, my body image has changed from a size 12 to a plus size. With all the lumps and bumps evident especially after two caesareans, I know my rolls are here to stay! So, to all you curvy ladies out there reading this, you are not alone. Hold your head high! You got this! Go and pamper yourself with Dove products and buy that Ocean Road swimsuit that makes you feel gorgeous and look a million dollars!

“Excuse me James Bond movie director, are you looking for a curvy Bond girl?”

My favourite piece in this collection is the Black swimsuit dress that covers my thighs. It looks so cute and classy. I also loved the Blue rashie in this collection. It is super comfortable and it was a lovely blue colour. I felt so calm when I saw the colour. The rashie also reminded me of a Bond girl coming out of the water lol “Excuse me James Bond movie director, are you looking for a curvy Bond girl?” After the photo shoot, a woman came up to me asking where she could purchase the outfit which boosted my confidence even more making me realise I do need to embrace my curves and not be ashamed.

“There is nothing more beautiful and powerful than a smile that has struggled through tears from pain and suffering. I smile from the strength to rise above my battles. It’s not what I have been through that defines who I am. Its how I get through it that makes me the person I am today.” Quote: Demi Lovato

To all the curvy women out there, yes you! Regardless of your shape and size, I want you to know that you are beautiful, both inside and out. Embrace your beauty. Embrace your body. If you are battling low self-esteem and confidence, I want you to take a look at ‘The Dove Real Beauty Pledge’ campaign which features real women and not models. https://www.dove.com/au/stories/about-dove/dove-real-beauty-pledge.html

Meet Lee-Anne, Bundaberg resident, Pickleball enthusiast  & proud to be a ‘Curvy Girl’

“One of the things I love about my age is that I am so much more confident”

“Everybody is a beach body, and I want to pass on that message”

I am a proud mum to 4 young adults, step mum to 3 and Nanna to 2 divine little girls. The one thing my 53 years has taught me is to love and embrace my body. My body has produced life, fought off illness, given comfort and has been strong and healthy. It also carries around my soul!!  I now class myself as a curvy girl, thank you menopausal changes!!  I will no longer hate on this lump or that squishy bit. Our bodies are wonderful and miraculous regardless of our shape and size. Everybody is a beach body, and I want to pass on that message.

“Every day I wake up and love going into work”

For the last 15 years I have called Bundaberg home. Every day I wake up and love going into work.  I’m so proud to work for a local not-for-profit support organisation what strives to enrich the lives of people with disabilities. I married my best friend, strongest supporter, and Pickleball partner in September last year. Pretty sure we are still in our honeymoon phase ;-), although if he leaves his shoes out again that may change!!y!

“My favourite piece in this collection is the gorgeous spotty swim shorts”

I just adore my gorgeous spotty swim shorts, they are so fun and cute!! I love the retro look to them and they are so comfortable to wear.  I have a pair and I wear them to workout in as well as in the pool.

“I love to help others less fortunate than myself”

I am a staunch ally for the LGBTIQ+ community and Mental Health issues– particularly in the workplace.  I have my own diagnosis of anxiety depression and PTSD. When I’m not out training or competing with our local Dragon Boat team, I do a lot of volunteer work for a Charity very close to my heart – ‘Share the Dignity’,  3 times a year we do big collection drives and seek donation of  Period products and filled handbags to distribute to those in need.

Check out this link Share the Dignity  you will see donation boxes in Woolworths and many other local business through to March and September Nationally, and in Bunnings in November.