Meet the Team
THE A-TEAM:
Skilled, Supportive & Curious
Kindness and compassion are golden threads of our studio and our incredible teachers are committed advocates. We take our craft seriously, always learning and refining how our practices can support you.
Hand-picked and trained with heart, no two instructors are the same and bring their own signature style and character. Whether you’re looking for something sweaty, stretchy, soothing or a combination – we’ve got a class and a teacher for that.
In a recent community poll, 96% of respondents said our teachers are a huge reason (if not THE reason) they keep coming back. They said we are fun, kind, realistic, encouraging and entirely judgement-free.
You’d better believe it, we really do care about you!
-
Also affectionately known by some as ‘The Abs Assassin,’ this beautiful soul has been with us right from the beginning.
A mother of three teenagers, her kind heart and calming energy brings a wealth of experience to our studio. With a keen interest in environmental sustainability, she has donated her time to charities that clear debris from waterways and beaches and helps to care for sick and injured marine life. It’s this humility and genuine thoughtfulness that we love the most.
-
Jess’ journey with yoga began some years ago in a bid to support her mental and emotional wellbeing – and after gifting her more than she could ever have imagined, the journey evolved…. Now she stands on the teachers’ mat, supporting the mental and emotional wellbeing of others and normalising expectations.
With a driving passion for encouraging and inclusive classes, Jess loves to teach using props – expect to use bolsters, blocks, straps…. The whole suite!
-
“After 23 years in building and construction, my body was all but broken. I came to yoga to help repair my physical body. I had no idea where it would take me.
It’s been over three years since I walked into my first yoga class; I was incredibly fortunate to meet two mentors who believed in me. I’ve since been given a wonderful opportunity to teach what I’m learning – Antara has amazing vibrations! I feel so lucky to share the space.
During my teacher training I sat and served two 10-day silent meditation seminars. Meditation in silence is what I love the most about my practice. No verbalisation, no visitation. Just your breath and your mind. If you trust the path you’re on, it makes life a whole lot easier to deal with.”
-
Carolyn walked into her first yoga class 20 years ago and never looked back!
"As a teacher I am passionate about creating classes that get students out of their head and into their bodies. I love using props and providing variations of poses so that students can adapt the practice and make it their own.”
Off the mat Carolyn is a proud mumma, loving wife, artist, nature lover and all around super inspired chicka!
-
“In my schooling years I was an Australian champion discus thrower. Being in the competitive sports arena, I ran into a few injuries along the way so, I started reformer Pilates to help with a persistent back injury and a few other niggles. I fell in love and decided that I needed to share this beautiful form of movement with everyone and teach!
Pilates’ strengthening and lengthening allowed me to fine tune my body and keep injuries away, while working on my balance and coordination all at the same time. It’s also helped me to feel strong in other areas of my fitness training.
I love that no matter your age or ability, Pilates is the perfect movement for everyone. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my clients surprise themselves with what they are capable of…. Oh, and seeing their faces when it gets nice and spicy is good, too!”
-
Heather has been teaching with Antara since our earliest days.
“I began yoga wanting to exercise my body but eventually realised it was my heart and mind that received the best work out. I believe that yoga is not about ‘looking good’ or ‘being good’ at it, but being good to yourself. Yoga is for everyone and every body and everyone’s yoga journey is perfectly unique and worthwhile.”
-
"While I have been a lover of yoga for a long time, it has been within the last five years that this practice really deepened for me personally.
Yoga taught me how to nourish my mind, body, and spirit and also how to restore my nervous system. I loved the magic of yoga so much and how it made me feel that I wanted to share this practice with others.
Working as a Clinical Psychologist and Energy Medicine Practitioner, I felt yoga was the missing piece in how I was working with individuals and groups. I love incorporating my knowledge across my different holistic health modalities and combing that with my yoga practice to help others develop strength in their mind and body.”
-
Dana has been practising and loving Pilates for well over 15 years, and became a Pilates instructor to show the world exactly how much fun you can have in moving your body.
She’s infamous for “that jumpboard” and her favourite exercise of all time is the plank to pike – in every which way that you can do it!
She can also play the saxophone, drive a tractor and manage detailed excel spreadsheets like it’s nobody’s business. Multi-talented!
-
Pilates assisted Amber in the recovery and rebuilding of her body after an emergency c-section – in particular, her core strength, but also with other less dominant issues such as clicking hips and shoulders.
Two more babies and seven years of teaching later, Amber still loves sharing the benefits of Pilates (and that beautiful burn of hers!) with her clients.
“My favourite Joseph Pilates quote is ‘In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 you’ll see the difference, and in 30, you’ll have new body.’ I felt that this was the case for me, especially after having babies – not just superficially, but internally….. I felt more aligned.”
-
“After discovering the endless benefits of yoga after my very first class, I attended years of practice before I studied my foundational 200hr training. I have since completed over 500 hours of yoga teacher training with a group of incredibly talented and knowledgeable teachers. Although my greatest teacher by far, has been my beautiful daughter and the journey of Mummahood.
I long to share my love of movement, meditation and wholistic health. I invite my students to step away from the constant movement of life to find moments of stillness on the mat, so they may experience the healing and balancing power of the practice.
Barre is my other go-to movement practice as I really enjoy the functional movement and strength it creates in the body.
My teaching comes from my heart, because it’s the only way I know how to be. So I look forward to sharing my heartfelt teachings with this wonderful community.”
-
Jaimee is as cool as a cucumber, but brings a spicy spicy game to the reformer studio here at Antara. You’ll be feeling the after effects for days in all the right places…. And if you know, you know!
“When I was 16, I was diagnosed with compartment syndrome in my lower legs, and yoga and pilates was recommended as maintenance to avoid surgery. It’s now many, many years later, and no surgery yet!”
-
"I've always had a fascination with the way we move, our biomechanics and all the possibilities that could be. Add to that, a passion for beautiful music and the utmost respect for the ancient teachings that are available to us.
Life experience has given me an understanding and appreciation for self reflection, self worth, benefits of mindfulness and meditation and the importance of simply breathing well; the need also, to manage challenging and stressful situations that are so common with our modern lifestyle; most importantly, it's realising the ability we all have within, to change our state with a completely holistic approach to our practice.
I strive to provide a thoughtful practice allowing for diversity, individuality and kindness. A space where practitioners can learn, gain confidence and feel really good about themselves.”
-
"I did my first yoga teacher training in 2018 when my eldest was 18 months old... it was so rewarding and the biggest thing I took away was not the poses, but the breathwork and the meditation components.
At the time, I wasn't planning on teaching but after completing 'yoga for physio' courses, I took a deeper dive - in 2021 I completed another yoga teacher training, with the intention to teach AND to incorporate more into my physio sessions in clinic.
For me the beauty of yoga is really in feeling into the body as it moves, slowing down the breath and becoming present with yourself for that small part of the day and I think this is what really makes it accessible and adaptable for everyone. I really hope that when people come to my classes this is what they walk away with.
I really feel like career wise I have come full circle - my first uni course (I've done 3 degrees!) was exercise science - and I didn't pursue that because, in my own young dumb words, "no one wants to be taught fitness by an old lady" I truly didn't see the longevity of it... what an idiot... Interestingly now all I want to do is help people rediscover the joy of moving their bodies!"
-
"I became interested in yoga and its rich history from a young age - both of my parents did yoga growing up. My mum took me to my first yoga class at the of age 10 while living in Mission Beach FNQ, and I have not strayed since!
Yoga continues to support my dyslexia - something that has been part of me since I could remember; it strengthens my cross-body connections and the way I may interpret information through movement.
In 2022 I decided it was time to explore and further my journey with yoga studies, and here I am!
I believe yoga is a never-ending learning journey, whether it’s the practice itself or the rich history, and I personally find a lot of comfort in that.
And I am thrilled to be here, sharing this experience with you.”
-
“I first discovered Pilates when I was 16 and instantly became fascinated with the attention to detail in movement. I loved how you would work so hard in class, but would leave feeling taller and with more energy than at the beginning.
Pilates has really personally helped me with personal injuries, confidence in my body and overall well being. It's because of this my favourite part of teaching is being able to bring the challenge to a session, but also the care.”
-
"I have been a yoga teacher for over 7 years and started teaching at Antara in February.
I have always been interested in health and fitness and first started yoga as a physical outlet but knew it would also create a sense of calm in my life. I just didn't realise at the time how yoga could have such an impact in all aspects of life.
When I am not teaching yoga, I am teaching high school students or running my own little crew around to school, sport and work.”
-
“Hello, my name is Renee. I’ve been practicing yoga for several years, and over time, it became the most cherished part of my day.
I was drawn to teaching because of the profound way yoga made me feel—exhilarated yet grounded. I knew I wanted to share that sense of transformation and balance with others.
I enjoy teaching a wide range of styles, from the dynamic discipline of Ashtanga to the stillness of Yin. I believe all forms of yoga complement and enhance one another.
Over the past eight years, I’ve been traveling and studying extensively in India and Nepal to deepen my understanding of yoga—both on and off the mat.”
-
"I’ve been practicing yoga for over 20 years now, and have personally found it to be a soothing balm in an over-stimulating modern world. As a women’s health physio, yoga has also been incredibly supportive in my clinical practice in so many ways. This led me to complete teacher training in 2021, and I come to the mat with the goal of supporting others to come back to themselves, to find a stillness, a clarity, a sense of ease, that they can take with them when they leave the mat.
I aim to provide a deeply embodied and heart-centred practice and particularly enjoy teaching in a Kundalini-inspired style, that is both somatic and trauma-informed."
-
"As a former gymnast, I’ve always been drawn to movement that challenges my body and mind. After discovering reformer Pilates I fell in love with the unique combination of strength, balance, flexibility and mindfulness. I love helping people to reach their goals and discover the joy of movement to feel empowered in their own bodies."
-
“I fell in love with yoga after having my son in 2021 as it allowed me to move my body and calm my mind in a nourishing way. Falling in love with how yoga made me feel physically and mentally, I wanted to take my yoga journey to the next level. In 2024, I completed the 200 hour yoga teacher training here at Antara.
I never thought I would teach yoga but I couldn’t resist sharing all of its goodness - breathwork, movement, some spiritual awareness or moment of gratitude and sweet, sweet savasana! My favourite part of a class is savasana, seeing everyone drop into themselves and ground - it’s a magical place to be and I am so grateful to guide people into it.”
-
Originally from Canada and later England, Lily spent most of her life in the world of gymnastics - first as a competitive gymnast and then coaching young athletes for many years.
After moving to Australia, she found her way to yoga and completed her 200-hour teacher training in 2025. Yoga offered a new way to explore movement - one that combines her love of body mechanics with a slower, more intentional approach... and she LOVES getting upside down!
Lily now works as a children’s librarian and is also qualified in children’s yoga, something she feels deeply excited to share with the next generation.
-
“What a remedy it is to return over and over again to a practice that reaches out across time and culture and place with always the same conclusion: come back to the body, come back to the heart beating, the lungs breathing, the moments unfolding before us.
Being on the mat reminds me how lucky I am just to live a life, in all of its preciousness and precariousness. There is something about the class setting that exemplifies this for me - that what is most beautiful about being human is the unseen and the unmeasurable, that we are connected, and that there is always hope.
After practising yoga for some years, and being a student at Antara for a few, I completed the 200h YTT hosted there in 2024 (and bonus - had Amy as my mentor!). It’s a joy to share yoga, and I love incorporating sensory elements such as props, chimes and sound bowls during savasana.”
-
“I started reformer Pilates a little over three years ago and absolutely fell in love with the challenge, discipline and full body and mind experience that it brings. I'm so grateful to be able to share this love through teaching, with the hope that clients leave my classes feeling strong, proud and maybe a little sweaty.”
-
Spanning across all kinds of seasons and styles, Carla’s long term love for Pilates and movement began over 20 years ago.
Carla found her way to Antara for its energy and genuine sense of welcome; the kind of place where you can arrive feeling flat and leave feeling stronger, taller, and a better version of yourself…
.. and that’s exactly what you’ll get in her classes: something supportive, challenging, and uplifting.
She’s a big fan of finding that extra edge… so yes, she’ll probably ask you for ‘just one more rep.’
(don’t say we didn’t warn you! 😆)
-
"I’m Caitlin, a nutritionist and Pilates instructor passionate about helping women feel strong, energised, and in tune with their bodies.
My own journey with gut issues and allergies led me to discover just how powerful nutrition and movement can be—not just for physical health, but for overall well-being. Pilates isn’t just about exercise for me; it’s about building strength from the inside out, improving posture, reducing stress, and creating a body that moves well for life. Paired with a nourishing, balanced approach to food, it’s a game-changer for gut health, energy, and long-term wellness.
I feel so lucky to teach in the beautiful Antara Studios in Toowoomba, a space that perfectly complements the holistic approach I bring to health and movement. It’s a place where people can come to feel supported, build strength, and reconnect with their bodies in a way that feels good. My approach is all about sustainable, realistic habits—because feeling your best shouldn’t come with restriction or burnout.”
-
“I have been in the health and fitness industry for over 9 years now, learning and teaching all different forms of physical activity and movement. Which to much of my excitement has now lead me down the road and into Pilates; both Mat & Reformer!
I absolutely love teaching as it gives me the opportunity to try and put a smile on the many beautiful faces that fill our studio each and everyday.”
-
“I started my yoga journey as a professional contemporary dancer in the U.K. Strenuous rehearsing and touring would take its toll on my body, mind and ultimately my spirit.
Yoga and mat pilates were core to my training, and became my refuse when I needed retreat and care.
I have learnt so much about myself, and the world, from my mat. Sharing yoga with others, and hearing about their journeys continually inspires me.
After years of practice I undertook Yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, 2019. I discovered depths of pranayama, heights of anatomical knowledge and the vastness of wisdom in yogic teachings & traditions. It was a privilege to have such wise and experienced teachers, and to learn in the place where yoga began.
Of the mat I work internationally in theatre and education as a Community Dance Artist, bringing communities together through Dance, Movement & Theatre.As a Dance & Movement Therapist, I work with young people and in aged care providing therapeutic programmes, supporting the wellbeing goals of the population.“
Meet our in-house Magic Maker
CLINICAL NATUROPATH & CLINICAL NUTRITIONIST
Melissa Awde
Clinical Naturopath AND Clinical Nutritionist, Melissa Awde, has officially opened her doors within Antara Studios!
“Holistic medicine and nutrition is my passion. I love empowering patients to understand their bodies & discover the gentle power of the healing arts.
As an Integrative Nutritionist, I enjoy being able to bridge the gap between holistic & western medicine while providing a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which to heal. I am always looking to integrate new treatments & therapies into my practice & believe that continued learning is important for any good practitioner.”
Specialising in gut health, hormones, sleep & anxiety, blood sugar regulation & a true PLETHORA of other health concerns, Melissa can support you in-clinic or online.
ABOUT OUR BUILDING – ‘An unmatched energy’
Our space is truly unique - this beautiful building has withstood so much transformation in her long lifetime: it was once a motor mechanic repair house, a Turkish restaurant, administration office and a dance studio. She’s experienced severe flooding, destructive fire, huge infrastructure expansion and massive commercial developments.
The transformation into a holistic space was also challenging, and the team at StruXi Design were instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Infusing it with elements that matter to us - space, warmth, integrity - the building has received Regional and State accolades for its transformation.
If you have a building project that needs some extra attention, care and alchemy, then these guys are your people.
Head to their website to check them out: www.struxi.com.au
A Dreamy Transformation •
A Dreamy Transformation •
The transformation was complete when Tom and his incredible team at Lavish Constructions came aboard.
These guys are the real deal: superior craftsmen, true magicians and genuinely beautiful people. The renovation threw every challenge imaginable at them, and the extraordinary result is an honest testament to their labour of love and passion for ‘doing things the right way.’
We are forever grateful to the Lavish team for their patience, persistence and vision as we breathed life back into this iconic Toowoomba building.
View their amazing work at www.lavishconstructions.com.au