Founder, CEO & C.R.E.W Leader
Hi, I’m Yvonne and the very passionate Founder of Women’s Fitness Adventures.
All my life I’ve been connecting women. In fact my earliest memory was in high school and welcoming all the new girls to the school.
My passion is encouraging women to become fitter and stronger for life. And one of the best ways to do this is through outdoor adventures. Getting fit and getting social – all in the fresh air.
Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved the outdoors. From family camping trips to mystery driving weekends. And I was always first up. There’s something special about the promise of a brand new day.
Over the years I’ve hiked many of the great trails of the world and those close to home too. From the volcanoes of Hokkaido, Japan, to the trails of the Cinque Terre in Italy and the remote Kokoda Track in PNG – twice. The first time for my 50th birthday.
I’m often asked which one is my favourite and that’s always a challenge to answer. For me, it’s where I can go remote and disconnect. Australia is good for that, in particular the Northern Territory and North Western WA. You don’t have to go too far for our wide open skies, fabulous landscapes and the opportunity to be yourself with no distractions.
I know the magic that happens to women when they adventure together and it’s such a transformational thing. I look foward to sharing all of this with you.
C.R.E.W Leader
I am Jane, a gypsy at heart and an intrepid traveller. I am into adventures, boots n’ all!
My first introduction to Women’s Fitness Adventures was whilst organising a mother/ daughter event. I was on the Women’s Fitness Adventure’s web site and was very excited to see so many adventures so I signed up!
As a lover of the outdoors I am always up for an adventure and a challenge.
The world is there to be explored and enjoyed. Although some days are more challenging than others the attachment to the outdoors simply makes for beautiful moments.
As a child I grew up travelling. My dad was in the army and that meant moving! As an adult I have lived in England, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and The U.S.A. I moved to Malaysia with a suitcase and a job and returned 15 years later with a husband, 2 children and a shipping container. Yes, I collected a few things on the way!
Over the years I have trekked to Everest Base Camp, built houses in Cambodia, white water rafted, sea kayaked and travelled to many destinations around the world. I am always trying to improve my wilderness skill set!
Always active and wanting to escape to the outdoors, Women’s Fitness Adventures has given me that escape. Even if it is only for a morning to connect back to basics of life, it is always wonderful. I come home a happy mum with lots to talk about. The house may be a little messier but no one notices.
I am excited to be both a C.R.E.W Leader and the Chief Operating Officer for Women’s Fitness Adventures. I always look forward to meeting and trekking with the wonderful women who are also up for a little adventure – rain or shine , there is always beauty and always fun.
See you outdoors, Jane
C.R.E.W Leader
Mandy grew up in Brisbane with a love for storytelling and the visual arts, which led her into a career in television. She worked as a production coordinator and producer on well-loved shows like The Great South East and Totally Wild. It was a creative time that sparked her passion for connecting people through stories and showcasing the beauty of Australia.
After a decade in TV, Mandy made a big shift – turning her passion for health and fitness into a career. She completed her Cert III and IV in Fitness and built a successful personal training business, working with women aged 18 to 70 in both group and one-on-one settings. Over 15 years, she has helped countless clients build confidence and healthy habits, creating a supportive fitness community along the way.
Her love of the outdoors grew into a real passion for trail running, mountain biking and hiking. A ‘thru-hike’ of Carnarvon Gorge with her husband kicked off years of adventure, exploring Queensland’s great walks – from the Gold Coast to K’gari Fraser Island, and the world-renowned “Thorsborne” Trail on Hinchinbrook Island. Other accomplishments include climbing peaks such as Mt. Barney, Mt. Maroon, Flinders Peak, Pages Pinnacle and Cunninghams Gap. More recently Mandy has completed Tasmania’s Overland Track and Three Capes Walk.
Mandy also works at a primary school looking after WHS, Risk & Compliance, and Facilities, playing a key role in keeping students and staff safe. Never one to sit still, she’s also earned her Bronze Medallion at North Burleigh Surf Club and is now a regular on beach patrol. Ocean swimming is her latest challenge, and she’s loving it.
At the heart of it all is her family—her husband and three adult sons—who’ve always been her biggest cheerleaders. With her adventurous spirit and love of community, Mandy brings energy and enthusiasm to everything she does.
C.R.E.W Leader
With over 25 years’ experience as a Physiotherapist and a lifelong passion for movement, Simone brings a practical, prevention-focused approach to every hiking adventure. Her career has spanned elite sport, university education, and workplace wellbeing, yet her purpose has always remained the same, helping others stay active, strong and injury-free for life.
Now in her fifties and with her young family nearly through school, Simone is embracing the things that energise her most, connecting with women, moving with purpose and spending time in nature. Based on the Gold Coast, she’s already led workplace wellness programs and trail adventures across Queensland, including Mt Warning and D’Aguilar National Park.
Simone shares our Women’s Fitness Adventures belief in the power of hiking to build confidence, connection and resilience. When she’s not guiding on the trail, she leads a team of facilitators at Bond University, helping medical students grow their communication skills and confidence, a collaborative spirit she brings to every hike. Whether you’re navigating a rocky path or enjoying a heartfelt trail chat, Simone will be there with empathy, energy and expert care to support your journey.