HER Peninsula

In this episode of HER Peninsula, host Sophie Jackson sits down with Australian media icon Tracee Hutchison, a trailblazer in music journalism, broadcasting, and community storytelling. Tracee reflects on her incredible career in media, including the unforgettable moment she helped discover and champion iconic Australian band Silverchair, and what it was like being at the centre of the music industry during such a defining era. She also shares her journey back to the Mornington Peninsula, why returning home was important, and how she’s now using her experience and influence to support and uplift the local community. From national stages to local stories, this conversation is about impact, purpose, and the power of coming full circle.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, we sit down with Erin Summers from Little Pier Olive Oil, whose journey to the Mornington Peninsula is a story of change, courage, and connection. What began as a move away from the familiar has evolved into a deeply rooted life on the land, where Erin has embraced the challenges and rewards of farming in a way that feels both intentional and community-driven. As she shares her experience stepping into the world of olive growing, Erin offers an honest insight into what it means to learn the land from the ground up, the unpredictability, the resilience required, and the quiet satisfaction that comes with it. At the heart of her story is the creation of a community olive oil project, we also explore the lesser-known idea of “fox peppering” a property, and how caring for the land often means understanding and working alongside nature in unexpected ways. This is a story about starting again, trusting the process, and discovering that the most meaningful things are often the ones we grow together.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, we sit down with Emily Rovere for an honest and inspiring conversation about business, life, and finding your place.Emily shares her journey in business, including the realities of running a smoothie business, the lessons that come with building something of your own, and what life behind the scenes really looks like. She also opens up about her experience with fertility challenges, speaking candidly about a deeply personal chapter of her life.We also chat about what brought her to the Mornington Peninsula, why she chose to settle here, and how the region has shaped the life she’s building now.It’s a warm, real conversation about resilience, reinvention, and creating a life that feels right.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, Sophie chats with Angela Cleland, CEO of Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism, a passionate leader championing the region’s tourism industry and the people who make it thrive. Ange shares her career journey, from her early days in finance, to leading one of Victoria’s most dynamic regional destinations. She talks about the importance of supporting local businesses, using data and insights to drive smart decisions, and fostering collaboration across the Peninsula. This episode also explores why it’s vital for businesses to step out from behind their logos, to share their stories, their people, and their purpose, creating deeper connections with locals and visitors alike. It’s an insightful and empowering conversation that celebrates leadership, community, and the power of storytelling in building a stronger, more connected Peninsula.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, Sophie sits down with Mel Villani, owner of Evergreen Clothing, to talk business, balance and the mindset that underpins a life well lived. Mel’s entrepreneurial spirit showed up early, and it’s something she’s carried with her through every chapter of her journey. From building a successful fashion business to navigating the realities of life, motherhood and ambition, Mel shares her story with honesty, warmth and infectious positivity. What makes this conversation special is Mel’s refreshing approach to life and work. She doesn’t overthink, she trusts her instincts, and she believes deeply in creating a life that feels good, not just one that looks good on paper. This is an episode for women who are building something, whether that’s a business, a career, or simply a life that feels aligned. Mel’s grounded wisdom and light hearted outlook are a reminder that success doesn’t have to be stressful, and joy can be part of the journey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, Sophie sits down with Michelle Crotty, the Manager of Art, Design and Environment at Chisholm Institute, a creative leader who has built a dynamic career centred around education, innovation, and nurturing local talent. Michelle takes us through her career journey, from her early creative influences to the path that led her into teaching, leadership, and shaping the next generation of designers, artists, and environmental thinkers. We explore the exciting work happening within the Art, Design and Environment departments at Chisholm, from student projects and exhibitions to industry collaborations and hands-on learning that prepares students for real-world opportunities. Michelle shares stories of students doing extraordinary things, the growth she sees in them, and why the Peninsula is such a powerful place to foster creativity. We also look ahead to what’s next for Chisholm: new programs, emerging creative fields, evolving industry needs, and how the institute continues to build opportunities for the local community. This conversation shines a light on a passionate educator and leader who is driving creativity, confidence, and innovation across the Mornington Peninsula.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, Sophie sits down with Rhiannon, the creative force behind Rhino Tiger Bear, a small batch wine label making waves on the Mornington Peninsula. Rhiannon shares her journey from her Canadian roots to falling in love with winemaking in Australia. We dive into how her curiosity and creativity shaped her path, what makes the Peninsula such a special place to grow and create, and why her label is more than just great wine, it’s about community, connection, and bold ideas. Whether you're into wine, small biz stories, or just love a good yarn with a local powerhouse, this episode is one to sip on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this uplifting and genuine episode, Sophie sits down with Meagan and Heather, two remarkable women whose individual breast-cancer journeys brought them together and sparked the creation of BreastFoot Forward.  They talk candidly about the challenges of diagnosis and treatment, how the experience changed them, and the unexpected blessing of a friendship formed in the trenches.  Together, they’ve launched Breast Foot Forward to give back, creating care packages, community workshops, gentle movement and breath-work, and a space of connection for others navigating breast-cancer recovery on the Mornington Peninsula. Breastfoot Forward is more than just a project, it’s about support, awareness, and reminding people that no one faces breast cancer alone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What started as a creative outlet has grown into a thriving business capturing the heart and soul of the Mornington Peninsula. In this episode, we sit down with Amber Gardener, the woman behind Natural Light Photography, to hear how she turned her passion into a career. Amber shares her journey into photography, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the joy she finds in working with such a diverse range of local businesses, from makers and cafes, to wellness brands and community events. It’s a story about following your instincts, staying grounded, and building something beautiful right where you are.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, we sit down with Ainslie Lubbock, one of Victoria’s most respected hospitality leaders, and the driving force behind the renowned dining experience at Pt. Leo Estate. Ainslie shares her career journey in hospitality, from her early experiences to becoming a key figure at one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most celebrated destinations.  We explore her philosophy on creating exceptional customer experiences, and the little details that elevate a meal into a memorable moment. From her passion for people to the precision behind service, Ainslie offers insights into what truly makes great hospitality, warmth, care, and attention to detail. This episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication that goes into every table at Pt. Leo Estate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of HER Peninsula, we chat with Jackie Green, a dynamic local artist whose early career involved some seriously daring sign writing. Jackie shares stories from those early days, where creativity met risk, and how her love of sport, despite limited opportunities for girls at the time, fuelled her passion for empowering young women today. From painting bold murals to advocating for girls in sport, Jackie’s journey is one of courage, creativity, and commitment to making space where it’s needed most. Listen in to hear about her art, her activism, and the inspiring way she’s helping reshape the local landscape for the next generation. Whether you’re an art lover, sports enthusiast, or passionate about social change, this episode offers a heartfelt look at one woman’s drive to make a difference.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kirsten Wolfe has helped thousands of women on the Mornington Peninsula navigate their fertility journeys with compassion, insight, and the support of traditional Chinese medicine. In this episode, she shares her holistic approach to hormonal balance, fertility treatment, IVF support, and emotional wellbeing, all from her beautiful clinic in Mornington. Whether you’re just starting to explore your cycle or deep in your conception journey, this chat is full of wisdom, warmth, and reassurance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Judith Muir has spent decades introducing people to the wonders of the water through her work with Polperro Dolphin Swim in Sorrento. But her journey goes far deeper than dolphin tours, it’s about connection, conservation, and helping people find a sense of peace and purpose in nature. In this episode, Judith shares the powerful lessons she’s learned from the sea, her work in education, and why the Mornington Peninsula is the perfect place to connect with nature and inspire action to protect our environment for generations to come.   Produced by ACE RadioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.