Stacey Thomson

58, Manly, radio host and Redland City Council environmental ambassador

What time do you wake up on a Saturday?

I look forward to a Saturday sleep-in when I can wake up to the sound of birds, instead of my alarm. Usually I get up about 7am which is a real treat, because weekdays mean a 4am wake-up to co-host the Triple A Murri Country radio show.

Best place to go with kids? Our daughters are 22 and 19 so we’re past the kid stage. When the girls were little nothing could beat the beach, our local whale water playground on the Wynnum Esplanade, or a wander through the Queensland Museum.

Favourite park? Indigiscapes on the Redlands Coast is a naturally wonderful gem. It’s a 14.5ha reserve featuring short walking trails, native botanic gardens, nursery, gift shop, and cafe. It’s also home to a gnarly 400-year-old tallowwood tree. Last week I even spotted a koala in a scribbly gum!

Local coffee haunt? My weekend faves are Groundhog Social, Manly, and Caffeination Station, Wynnum, for consistently great coffee and friendly service. But on my way to my radio gig each weekday my go-to is Cheeky Bean at West End.

Best spot for date night? My husband Rob and I like to venture close to home. A twilight drink at the rooftop bar of the recently renovated Manly Harbour Boat Club never disappoints, then a short walk to the Manly Boathouse for dinner.

Favourite takeaway? Midweek takeaway is popular at our house. A longtime favourite is Italian from Lido Italia, Manly … pizza and pasta, then gelato.

Where and when do you exercise? Walking the Wynnum/manly waterfront is my favourite form of exercise. It used to be every morning but now I fit walks in whenever I get a chance. Yoga is next!

Best hidden treasure in Queensland? When filming for Totally Wild, I was lucky to travel to some remarkable and often remote places. Lawn Hill Gorge in the north-west is a breathtaking oasis in the Outback.

Favourite place to holiday in Queensland?

We’ve holidayed in Noosa since before the girls were born and have many precious family memories. Another favourite destination is Port Douglas where you can experience the rainforest and the reef … and return home totally relaxed.

What’s your idea of the perfect Saturday?

An early-morning walk in Noosa National Park, coffee overlooking the beach, Eumundi markets, then a swim in the ocean. Then it’s a long, late lunch at Gusto Riverfront Restaurant. This kind of day makes me smile!