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Subscribe The Best of Brisbane With Magpie Goose’s Amanda Hayman
Explore Meanjin (Brisbane) with Wakka Wakka and Kalkadoon woman Amanda Hayman, as she shares her go-to cafes, creative hubs and inspiring local women.
This International Women’s Day, we’re touring our capital cities through the lens of the local women who inspire us. For Meanjin (Brisbane), that means a lovely chat with Wakka Wakka and Kalkadoon woman Amanda Hayman.
You might already know Amanda through her work as Owner and Managing Director of Magpie Goose, a First Nations-led social enterprise. Well, Amanda’s passion for art, fashion, cultural storytelling and creating space for First National excellence to thrive also sees her as Co-Founder and Director of Aboriginal Art Co, a not-for-profit arts organisation, and Owner and Director of Blaklash, a creative agency focused on Country-centred design.
We were lucky enough to nab a few minutes from Amanda’s busy schedule to chat about the city she calls home and the other women who inspire her.
Hello! Shall we start at the beginning? What’s your go-to breakfast spot in Brissie?
Our little family ritual is Sunday mornings at West End Coffee House. My son Charlie always orders the pulled pork fried rice. It’s his absolute favourite, and honestly, watching him enjoy it is half the reason we keep going back. We also love the Laos-style sausage with wok-fried eggs. But — if we had a big night, we skip dining in, stop into Morning After for a MaMuffin and The Fat Carrot for a fresh juice — the best hangover cure.
Where do you go to swim or slow down when you need a reset?
Our rooftop. We’re lucky to live in inner-city Brisbane and our building has a beautiful rooftop pool and magnesium plunge. It’s where we reset, unwind and spend our late afternoons together above the city.
If we were to go away for the weekend, we often go across to Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), where the pace drops the moment we step off the ferry. Bathing in the saltwater and soaking in the sun does wonders for our stress levels.
What is an underrated dinner spot more people should know about?
Fish Lane in South Brisbane is my go-to precinct. I love Julius Pizzeria, Bar Rosa, Southside, and Hello Please — and when it’s a special occasion, we wander a little further down to La Lune Wine Co for something extra special.
Describe to us your perfect date night in Brisbane.
A slow evening along Fish Lane; start with a drink, share a meal, wander through an exhibition at QAGOMA or catch a show at QPAC, then finish with a night walk along the river. It’s relaxed, vibrant, and feels like the city is putting on a show just for you.
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Can you tell us about your favourite local walk?
Living near the Brisbane River means we’re surrounded by incredible walking paths that connect all the bridges. We take Charlie to ride his bike or scooter while we stroll. Seeing so many people outside enjoying the sunshine always lifts my mood — it’s a reminder of how alive this city is.
What’s a local woman-owned business you love supporting locally?
A woman-owned business I love supporting locally is Cause/Affect Design Studio, run by Keisha Leon. Keisha is a graphic designer who intentionally chooses projects that promote social change and the greater good. Her work is bold, dynamic, and instantly recognisable, and she brings a unique style and strong sense of personality to everything she creates. I admire not only the quality of her design, but the values behind it — she proves that creativity can be a powerful force for positive impact.
Are you able to share a bit about a woman who inspires you?
A woman who inspires me is my best friend Kerri. Despite living with Crohn’s disease and facing ongoing health challenges, she shows incredible strength and resilience every day. She remains selfless, positive, and deeply committed to her family, always putting her children first and setting an amazing example for them. She takes care of herself, works hard, and never lets her struggles define her. Her attitude, perseverance, and kindness inspire me to face life with the same courage and optimism.
The best advice you’ve ever received (and who gave it to you)?
The best advice I’ve received has come from two inspiring women in my life. My friend and colleague Mia, who is incredibly calm, grounded, and kind, recently reminded me, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” It helped me step back, breathe, and focus on what truly matters.
Another powerful piece of advice came from my friend Nisa, who said, “Things are meant to change.” Which felt really profound. She encouraged me to stop resisting change, accept new opportunities, and understand that it’s okay to close a chapter. Her words reminded me that growth often requires courage and letting go, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Together, their advice has taught me to trust the process, stay true to your purpose and move forward with confidence.
What do you value most about womanhood?
The ability to hold strength and softness at the same time. Women carry stories, nurture ideas, build communities and lead change — often all at once. That layered power is something I deeply value.
Loved reading about Brisbane through Amanda’s eyes? Uncover more Brisbane gems with our guides to the best coffee shops in Brisbane and the best free things to do in the city.
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