Loretta Ryan
ABC Radio Brisbane breakfast co-host, Nundah
What time do you wake up on a Saturday?
I love weekend sleep-ins and waking up naturally without the alarm. Now, on Saturday that usually happens at about 7am. You might think that’s not much of a sleep-in but when you get woken by the alarm at 3am Monday to Friday, 7am is absolute bliss!
Where and when do you exercise?
I’ve been training at Mick Coorey Health and Fitness, Clayfield, for about 10 years. It’s such a great atmosphere where the training is often combined with lots of laughter. Just don’t tell Mick on a Monday that you’ve had a big weekend! I also love going to Bikram Yoga North Brisbane at Nundah. Thanks to owner Sherry Davis, the mindfulness of the yoga has really got me through.
Best place to go with dogs? My border collie Timmy and I love the Shorncliffe Esplanade and the pier. It’s such a beautiful spot and I always love to watch the beginning of the Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race on Good Friday from the banks of the river.
Local coffee haunt? Saabi on Manson, Hendra, is my go-to on a Sunday morning with the newspaper or for a quick lunch during the week. Owners Andrew and James are passionate about hospitality and they go out of their way to make you feel welcome. The coffee and food are great too.
Favourite live music/theatre venue? DooBop Bar, Edward St, always have top artists playing. The Basement Bar has a great atmosphere with exposed brick walls and wooden beams, while upstairs is a piano bar.
Favourite takeaway? A Saabi power muffin.
Favourite sporting venue? Mum Verna and I go to the Queensland Tennis Centre, Tennyson, every year to watch the Brisbane International Tennis and it’s exciting because you’re so close to the action. We love watching the top players warm up on the outside courts too.
Favourite beach in Queensland?
Moreton Island is gorgeous for a quick getaway and I always feel like I’ve been on holiday, even if it’s only been a short stay.
Favourite place to holiday or hidden treasure in Queensland?
The Scenic Rim because I feel relaxed in the rural setting. Doing things like visiting the Sunflower Festival at Kalbar and eating at the Scenic Rim Farm Shop Cafe is a great escape.
What’s your perfect Saturday? Meeting up with girlfriends for a long walk, followed by coffee and breakfast at a cafe. I love to have nothing much planned on a Saturday so I can stroll through some shops at leisure and just potter around home.
Ryan is an ambassador for the Wynnum Fringe Festival, November 16-December 4. wynnumfringe.com.au