Blog
Tell us a little bit about yourself
I'm a born and bred Cairns girl, married to Greg in 1998 and have three amazing little humans: Georgia, 16, Josh, 13, and Tayrah, 11.
I play hockey for Saints Hockey Club, and I've recently completed my first Ironman in a team event - definitely something I will be doing again next year. My kids are also fully involved with hockey, and my youngest does cheerleading - very busy lives!
I've been involved with Smartline Mortgage Brokers since September 2004, and purchased my own franchise in March 2012.
Prior to Smartline, I worked in commercial finance with the Commonwealth Bank, which started in 1989. I love the fact that I can combine all my working knowledge to help and benefit clients who are looking for finance for either their first home, an investment property, refinancing or business lending/equipment finance.
No client is ever the same, and no borrowing situation is ever the same, so it provides a challenge in always ensuring my clients get the correct information upfront, and that they have a complete understanding of what is involved. You can never have too much information when it comes to one of the biggest purchases of your life.
What inspired you to agree to be a Fashion Ambassador for Oceana Walk Arcade?
Who could say no to an opportunity to be pampered and wear some beautiful outfits from some of Cairns' best fashion stores! I know so many ladies who are extremely time-poor, and may not have the opportunity to get into town, like myself.
I hope this identifies Oceana Walk as a fashion precinct in Cairns for locals who are looking for unique, one-off, vintage or designer fashion, for not only the Racing Carnival, but all year round.
In your own words, how do you like to enjoy the racing season?
I play hockey on Saturdays, so getting to all the racing events can prove quite difficult. Though the race days that I can attend, are generally spent socialising in business network groups.
My outfits are always last minute ideas, and with the amazing selection of fashions available in Cairns, this can be quite easy to do.
Which stores do you particularly like to visit in OWA (Oceana Walk Arcade)?
This Arcade is quite amazing and the shopping is fantastic. I do love Gypsett and Vivienne Francine, but Eggplant & Poppy is such a fun store with so many different ideas.
I'm pretty sure no matter which store you visit, you will find something that just stands out.
What are you most excited about this race season?
Watching the 'Fashions on the Field' - these ladies always look fabulous, and the fine attention to detail is incredible. They are always on-trend, and look like a million dollars - I think FNQ have the ultimate fashion field, as we have proven when our winners head down south to the racing carnivals.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?
Cairns is such a magical place, and there's no place I'd rather live or raise my family.
Beautiful weather, amazing swimming holes, glorious reef and rainforest, friendly locals who go above and beyond...what more could you want!
My favourite part, so far, of being a Fashion Ambassador would have to be the pamper session (hair and makeup) - I haven't felt that pampered since my Wedding Day!
Plans going ahead for me, involves an overseas family holiday (kids still choosing where - they were given the task of deciding together where to go, and are researching the destination).
Business wise, I have recently moved into an office at The Pier after working from home for the past 10 odd years. My plan is to continue to grow my business, link myself with some pretty awesome business partners and provide excellent one-on-one customer service – Smartline Personal Mortgage Adviser Michele Annison ›
We think you're doing amazing Michele!
AT THE RACES WITH FASHION AMBASSADOR MICHELE
As the fashion partner for the Cairns Cup, Oceana Walk are thrilled to introduce this year's outstanding fashion ambassadors. Up next, meet Michele Annison, devout Mum and Mortgage Adviser.
