Once upon a time, the couch was where Australians gathered to watch television.
Now, it’s a place where we scroll.
People’s lives, personalities and moments are delivered to us in bite-sized form.
In Newcastle, a new wave of local influencers has become the “programming” of that scroll.
They’ve turned into the city’s latest storytellers and, for many, it’s new prime-time entertainment.
Here’s the third story in NW’s four-part series.
FIA HAMILTON
The word “balance” is key in Newcastle-based model, wellness creator and fitness influencer Fia Hamilton’s vocabulary.
After relocating to the region, she documents her lifestyle, Pilates routines and nutrition tips to an audience of more than 25,000 across her Instagram profile.
She also collaborates with several high-profile brands such as OxyShred, APE and Briwok Jewellery, operating as an ambassador.
“I’ve always been into health and fitness, so the transition was fairly easy,” Fia said.
“But, I started creating content when I worked towards my first bodybuilding show, which was probably about six years ago now.
“I had a coach who helped me towards that goal.
“Then, I ended up turning pro in my first bodybuilding show.
“Pretty much from that point onwards, my social media just kicked into gear.”
Fia now prides herself on helping other women achieve their aspirations.
“That’s my biggest thing,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“When I started out, I looked for people who I resonated with or those I could gravitate towards when it came to training around your mental health and mindset practices, nutrition – all in one.
“Honestly, I think I wanted to be that person I was searching for.
“I only train women, so I’m very big on training around their cycle and giving them a routine that caters towards their bodies.
“It’s something they relate to.
“Plus, I have a more holistic approach to health and fitness.
“I’m all about longevity, embracing a more sustainable lifestyle… and balance.
“So, you’ll never see me or even hear me speak about restrictions in any way or form.
“I’m all about creating a balanced lifestyle.
“That way, we can live a long and happy life around training, food and mental health as well.”
Now that Fia’s everyday being is shaped around creating content, the bubbly local admitted she found it hard – sometimes – to “switch off”.
“Yes, of course,” she said.
“It can be very difficult.
“However, if I start my morning with some form of a routine, whether it’s journaling, sitting down with my coffee or just being present for at least two-to-five minutes, I feel okay.
“I’m able to switch on and be like ‘let’s turn my work brain back on’.”
The word “balance” also comes into play with Fia’s collaborations.
“I’m trying to create a more holistic page and not have it so completely health and wellness because I feel, as humans, there’s so many different components,” she explained.
“So, I’ve been diving more into food collabs on social media, which is really fun.
“That way you can show people that they can have balance as well.
“They’re still able to go out, and eat out, and be fine the next day and train.”
For more lifestyle stories:
- Your new friends: Influencing change
- Bronte the Snake Catcher: Educating a new generation
- James Chapman: Delivering a message of hope
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