Check out this edition Mocha Hair Magazine.

More great articles by our very own Anthony Gray “The Power of Education at C’ba Hair” on page 28, and “National Training Reforms” on page 84.

MOCHA HAIR is the only magazine of its kind which offers a comprehensive look at both the business and image side of the hair industry. It provides salon owners with tools and information to be more successful and knowledgeable when it comes to business skills as well as keeping them informed with trend forecasts, interviews, profiles, news, reviews and product info.

Hailing from the small rural town of Thargomindah, 1200 kilometres west of Brisbane, Jacinta Byrne’s journey into hairdressing is as unique as it is inspiring. Growing up in a community of just 150 residents, she developed a strong connection to her roots, a love for the outdoors, and an unshakable determination to turn her dreams into reality. Now on the brink of completing her hairdressing qualifications, Jacinta is set to open her very own salon to serve her hometown and surrounding areas.

A SMALL-TOWN UPBRINGING

Jacinta’s upbringing in Thargomindah was shaped by the close-knit community and rural lifestyle. “Life here is different,” she shares. “It’s quiet, but there’s a sense of connection and support that you don’t find elsewhere.” Hairdressing in such a remote area is rare, and Jacinta saw an opportunity to fill that gap. “Most people have to travel hours just to get a haircut,” she explains. “I want to change that by bringing professional hairdressing services to my town.”

The Hairdressing Journey

Jacinta’s path into hairdressing began at 16 when she started her first apprenticeship in Roma. “Working in that first salon gave me a strong foundation and confirmed that hairdressing was my calling,” she says. Moving to her second salon, she honed her skills further, gaining confidence and experience. After taking time off to start a family, Jacinta found her way to MIG Training to complete her Certificate III in Hairdressing through the RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) process.

“The RPL process was perfect for me,” she shares. “I already had so much hands-on experience but needed to formalise my qualifications. MIG has been incredible, helping me fill in the gaps and ensuring I have the skills I need to succeed.” Traveling 1200 kilometres for block training—sometimes flying, sometimes driving—has been a challenge, but Jacinta is determined to see it through. “The atmosphere at MIG is so supportive and fun. The trainers genuinely want you to succeed, and that makes all the difference.”

PASSION BEYOND HAIRDRESSING: MUSIC, RACING, AND HORSES

When Jacinta isn’t cutting and styling, she’s pursuing her other passions: music, racing, and horses. A talented musician and songwriter, Jacinta’s love for music began in childhood, inspired by her mother playing guitar. She now performs and shares her music online, with her debut single recently launching on streaming platforms. Her Instagram account, @jacinta_byrne_music_, gives a glimpse into her musical journey, showcasing her artistry and connection to fans. “Music is another way for me to express myself and connect with people,” she shares. “It’s something I hope to continue alongside my hairdressing career.”

In addition to music, Jacinta has a passion for dirt bikes and racing. In 2021, she competed in the iconic Tatts Finke Desert Race, a gruelling off-road event held in Alice Springs. “The Finke Desert Race was one of the most challenging but rewarding experiences of my life,” she says. “It pushed me to my limits, both physically and mentally. The camaraderie among the racers and the thrill of the course made it unforgettable.” Her adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors are clear reflections of her upbringing in the rugged Australian outback.

Jacinta’s love for horses has also been a lifelong passion. Growing up in Thargomindah, horses were an integral part of her life, representing freedom and connection to the land. “Horses have always been a source of joy and calm for me,” she shares. Whether riding for leisure or helping out on the farm, Jacinta finds solace and inspiration in spending time with her horses.

The Future Of Hairdressing In Thargomindah

Once she completes her qualifications, Jacinta plans to open a family salon tailored to the needs of her community. “It’s about more than just hair,” she explains. “It’s about creating a space where people feel valued and cared for, where they don’t have to travel hours for quality service.” Her salon will also allow her to balance her professional aspirations with her family and rural lifestyle.

Jacinta credits her previous employers and mentors for shaping her approach to hairdressing. “Each of them brought something unique to the table and helped me grow,” she says. Now, she’s eager to pass that care and expertise on to her clients.

A Journey Of Determination

Jacinta’s journey has been one of sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering determination. Taking time away from her family to travel for training hasn’t been easy, but she knows it’s all worth it. “Every challenge has made me stronger,” she reflects. “I’m doing this for my family, my community, and myself.”

As Jacinta prepares to launch her salon and continue her music, racing, and equestrian pursuits, she’s proving that small-town roots can lead to big dreams. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and staying true to one’s values.

In the heart of Mackay, sits a salon that’s quietly redefining what leadership, education, and culture look like in the Australian hair industry. Intuition The Art of Hair is not just a destination for beautifully executed blondes and lived-in colour—it’s a blueprint for building high-performing teams.

Led by founder Victoria Rushby and her leadership partner Kate, Intuition has grown into a nationally recognised brand. It’s not just the technical work that’s earned accolades—it’s the business model itself, rooted in mentorship, mindset, and the belief that when you invest in your people, everything else follows.

“I didn’t just want to run a salon,” says Victoria. “I wanted to build a space where hairdressing was a fulfilling career—where people could grow both professionally and personally.” She purchased Intuition at just 23 years old. Eight years on, it’s now home to a 14-strong team, seven of whom began their careers there as apprentices.

From Apprentices to Industry Assets

The salon’s growth story is inextricably tied to its commitment to education. Victoria and Kate have designed a custom training pathway under the “Intuition Training Academy” banner, in partnership with MIG Training. The goal? Turn raw enthusiasm into commercially competent, confident stylists – fast. Apprentices begin by mastering foundational skills: consultations, basin work, blowdries. As they demonstrate competency, they advance to colour, men’s cutting, and eventually full colour services and restyles. Time trials are used to build speed and confidence, and each skill milestone is signed off only once the apprentice feels genuinely ready.

“There’s no conveyor belt,” explains Kate. “We check in regularly to ensure they’re not just technically capable, but mentally prepared too.”

At the 2.5-year mark, apprentices graduate to the “Emerging Stylist” level—a vital transitional phase that blends responsibility with support. They begin working with clients, managing columns, and earning commissions—giving them hands-on experience while still under the watchful guidance of mentors. By the time they reach full qualification, they’re not just “qualified” on paper—they’re contributing to the business, financially and culturally.

Education Beyond the Chair

While technical development is essential, what truly sets Intuition apart is its commitment to personal development. Every Wednesday morning, the salon closes for one hour of dedicated education, covering topics that range from balayage and cutting to mindset, confidence, posture, boundaries, and emotional regulation.

From yoga and chiropractic sessions to workshops on victim mentality and goal setting, no topic is off-limits. The goal is simple: support the whole person, not just the stylist.

“Without mindset, the technical skills don’t land,” says Victoria. “You can’t pour into someone who’s burnt out or doubting themselves.”

The team also has access to EAP Assist, offering counselling sessions when needed—just one of many wellbeing touchpoints that foster safety and openness in the workplace.

Team Culture that Sticks

In an industry known for high turnover, Intuition boasts unusually high retention. Stylists stay for years—many for their entire careers—thanks to a leadership style built on honesty, transparency, and shared vision.

Every year kicks off with a “brand identity and goals” meeting. Team members help shape the year ahead: what kind of reputation the salon should have, where skills need improving, and what personal goals each stylist wants to pursue. This buy-in creates ownership.

“When people feel heard, they stick around,” says Kate. “They’re not just working for us— they’re working with us.”

That sense of shared purpose extends to financial transparency. The team is taught how the business runs: overheads, budgets, profit margins, and even seasonal fluctuations. They help track salon expenses and are rewarded when the business hits targets. There’s even a whiteboard “goal tree” in the back room that grows when budgets are met.

Performance with Purpose

Intuition’s incentive structure isn’t about pressure—it’s about empowerment. Stylists are rewarded not just for productivity, but for consistency and alignment with team values.

New KPIs were introduced in 2024 after Victoria and Kate shadowed Perth-based salon leader Sharlene and revamped their systems.

“We realised we needed a model that worked not just for the business—but for the team’s personal goals too,” says Victoria.

Since implementing the new structure, every stylist has hit their bonus at least once. The commission model is tiered and transparent, giving everyone a clear view of what’s achievable. Stylists know their numbers, understand how to work smarter, and celebrate one another’s success.

This clarity has translated into the salon’s most profitable month to date. But more importantly, it’s created a motivated team with high morale and a shared desire to push forward together.

Chelsea’s Climb: From School-Based to Star Performer

One of Intuition’s standout stories is Chelsea, who began her journey as a school-based apprentice. From the beginning, she stood out for her work ethic and drive. Supported by both the MIG training model and in-salon mentoring, she moved swiftly through her practical milestones, transitioning through her apprenticeship.

In 2023, she represented Queensland at the Australian Training Awards—a career-defining milestone and a testament to what’s possible when education is structured, consistent, and personal.

“Chelsea’s journey is the result of a system that works,” says Kate. “We knew she had potential, and the structure helped her unlock it.”

Scaling Sustainably in Regional Australia

What makes Intuition’s story even more compelling is that it’s unfolding in the regional centre of Mackay and not in one of the larger capital cities where hair education and opportunities are concentrated and often more easily accessed.

Intuition proves that success doesn’t require a capital city postcode. With intention, mentorship, and innovation, regional salons can be just as competitive—and often more supportive.

“We’re showing that excellence can happen anywhere,” says Victoria. “You don’t have to be in Melbourne or Sydney to run a world-class salon.”

The team’s success is attracting attention: job applicants now cite Intuition’s strong culture and Instagram presence as their reason for applying. Some even say, “I just want to work somewhere that feels like that.”

Eyes on the Future

With a recent lease renewal and plans to build a larger premises, Intuition is already planning its next chapter. In the coming months, the team hopes to welcome two or three new apprentices, expanding their training pipeline and opening up more opportunities for senior stylists to mentor and lead.

That growth is exciting, but for Victoria and Kate, it’s also deeply personal. They want to raise their families while growing a business that reflects their values: sustainability, empowerment, and education.

“We’re not gatekeepers,” Victoria says. “We share everything we’ve learned because we want to see the whole industry rise.”

A Model Worth Following

In an era where staff retention, mental wellbeing, and training outcomes are front and centre, Intuition The Art of Hair is proving that these challenges aren’t unsolvable—they just require intention.

By focusing on people over profits, and systems over short-term solutions, Victoria and Kate have created something rare: a salon that doesn’t just teach hairdressing—it teaches leadership, selfbelief, and the value of long-term vision.

“We’re not just building hairdressers,” Victoria says again, this time with a smile. “We’re building futures.”

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@intuitionhairmackay

@mig_training

Check out this edition Mocha Hair Magazine.

Great articles by our very own Anthony Gray “Intuition: The Art of Hair” on page 38, and “From Small Town Roots to Big Dreams in Hairdressing” on page 42.

MOCHA HAIR is the only magazine of its kind which offers a comprehensive look at both the business and image side of the hair industry. It provides salon owners with tools and information to be more successful and knowledgeable when it comes to business skills as well as keeping them informed with trend forecasts, interviews, profiles, news, reviews and product info.

Some businesses are born out of necessity, others from a stroke of luck. But for Michael Vernon-Livingston and Luke Grevell, Knuckleheads Barbershop was the natural evolution of their shared journey—two different paths, one ultimate goal.

Finding the Calling

For Michael, the road to barbering began after three years in Canada. Returning home in 2020, he found himself in quarantine, reflecting on his next steps. A conversation with longtime friend and barber, Roddy Machray, sparked inspiration. “I’ve always loved talking to people and hearing their stories. I wanted a way to help people, and barbering seemed like the perfect fit,” Michael recalls.

Luke’s story, on the other hand, was shaped by his best mate. “I had never even been to a barber before,” he laughs. “But my mate started his apprenticeship and needed someone to practice on. I was captivated by the atmosphere and the industry as a whole, so I pursued an apprenticeship myself.”

Both men recognised early on that barbering was more than just cutting hair. It was about forming connections, being part of a community, and having the ability to make someone’s day with a fresh cut and good conversation.

The Apprenticeship Journey

Michael began his training at MIG, spending six months refining his craft before securing an apprenticeship at the Barber Shed with the help of MIG Trainers Rozi and Olivia. Over the next 2.5 years, he learned the ropes while receiving continued support from his mentors at MIG. “I had great teachers who supported me, and I still stay in touch with them to this day,” Michael says.

For Luke, immersing himself in the barber shop environment helped him forge connections. “Visiting the shop where my mate was cutting gave me the chance to meet the owner and senior barbers. When the opportunity to start an apprenticeship came up, I put my hand up.”

The biggest hurdle? Confidence. “At the start, I struggled with self-belief,” Luke admits. Michael faced a different challenge—being a mature-age apprentice made it tough to find opportunities. But perseverance paid off for both. They dedicated themselves to mastering their craft, soaking up knowledge from seasoned barbers and always looking for ways to improve.

From Apprentices to Entrepreneurs

After completing their apprenticeships, Michael and Luke worked as senior barbers but felt they had outgrown their environment. “We both had a vision for a shop that focused on quality barbering, building community connections, and just having a bloody good time,” Michael explains. Knuckleheads was born. Finding the perfect location in Buddina behind the Kawana shops, they transformed an empty space in a new apartment high-rise into their dream shop. “We did a lot of the fit-out ourselves, with the help of friends and family,” Luke says. “Huge shoutout to Mat at Envious Painting and Michael’s dad, Gerry from Gerry’s Fixology.”

Crafting a Unique Barbershop Experience

Knuckleheads is more than just a place to get a haircut—it’s a space where people feel at home. The team, currently consisting of Michael, Luke, and Tara, have built an atmosphere of camaraderie and comfort. “We wanted to create a shop where people could not only get an excellent haircut but also feel like they’re hanging out with mates,” Luke says. The shop’s culture is built on inclusivity, humour, and high standards. “Sometimes, people just need a place to unwind, have a cold beer, and share their stories. We want Knuckleheads to be that place,” Michael adds.

Crafting the Perfect Cut

While both barbers love a challenge, Luke’s go-to style is the taper fade—a modern twist on a classic look. Michael enjoys anything that pushes his skills, especially detailed scissor and clipper work. But for both, the true highlight is the people. “Building relationships with our clients, having a laugh, and creating a space where they can unwind—that’s what keeps it fun,” says Luke.

Their clientele includes a mix of locals, regulars, and first-time visitors who quickly become part of the Knuckleheads family. “We’re known for giving you the perfect cut while having a good time,” Michael adds.

Overcoming Challenges & Looking Ahead

Running a business comes with its fair share of hurdles. One of the biggest challenges Michael and Luke faced was securing the funds to get started. “Finding the money to open our own shop wasn’t easy,” Michael admits. “But we believed in our vision and made it work.”

Another challenge? Worrying about individual trading days instead of looking at the bigger picture. “At first, I’d stress over one slow day rather than focusing on the week or month as a whole,” Luke explains. “Learning to step back and see the bigger picture has been a huge personal growth moment for me.”

Despite the obstacles, their passion for the industry keeps them going. “We love what we do. Every day is different, and the styles are always evolving,” says Michael. “There’s always something new to learn.”

The Future of Knuckleheads

With nearly two years under their belt, Michael and Luke are excited for what’s next. “We want to continue growing our business and strengthening our ties with the community,” says Michael. Expanding their team is also a priority. “We’re looking forward to bringing on more talented barbers who share our vision,” adds Luke.

Ultimately, their goal remains the same: to create a welcoming space where everyone feels accepted, with just the right amount of banter.

“Knuckleheads isn’t just a barbershop—it’s a place where people come to connect, laugh, and leave feeling their best,” Michael says.

With their passion, talent, and commitment to their craft, Michael and Luke have carved out more than just a barbershop—they’ve built a legacy. And for the clients who walk through their doors, Knuckleheads is more than just a haircut. It’s a place to belong.

@knuckheads_buddina

@mig_training

Sunday 20^th October saw the national winners announced for the 11^th annual Australian Hair Industry Awards 2024- Business. Launched in 2014 by Mocha Group, this definitive awards program recognises business excellence for Australia’s leading hairdressers, salons, specialist businesses, educators and professional products.
Key winners included Perth’s Circles of Hair which was awarded AHIA Australian Salon Business of the Year and AHIA Business Director/Owner of the Year for Sharlene Lee as well as AHIA Vidal Sassoon Humanitarian of the Year, Craig Hollywood of Short Back and Sidewalks and AHIA Special Recognition Award to Epic Hair Designs.

The awards were presented at the much-anticipated gala event which was held at the The Star, Gold Coast and the evening began at full volume with an intricately choreographed song and dance show and ultra-modern take on the Oscars opening show. The performances blended the Beyoncé Single Ladies aesthetic, with Dua Lipa’s attitude, and the futuristic spectacle of Katy Perry’s 2024 VMA moment. Accompanying the performance was a custom club remix of some of classic tracks, complete with original AHIA lyrics. The celebration continued well into the wee small hours of the following morning with the After Party at Nineteen at the Star, sponsored by Be Crowned. Guests enjoyed cocktails, cool sounds and were caught on camera in the custom built 360 video and photo booth.

The AHIA Business entries were judged by an independent panel of international and national judges consisting of industry, media and PR professionals, as well as business specialists from fields including architecture and finance. Names included Alexandra Bilisi, Charlotte Grant-West, Faye Murray, Joanne Charlton, Kirstie Stafford, Narelle Lancaster and Nicole Healy.

The awards were presented at the much-anticipated gala event which was held at the The Star, Gold Coast and the evening began at full volume with an intricately choreographed song and dance show and ultra-modern take on the Oscars opening show. The performances blended the Beyoncé Single Ladies aesthetic, with Dua Lipa’s attitude, and the futuristic spectacle of Katy Perry’s 2024 VMA moment. Accompanying the performance was a custom club remix of some of classic tracks, complete with original AHIA lyrics. The celebration continued well into the wee small hours of the following morning with the After Party at Nineteen at the Star, sponsored by Be Crowned. Guests enjoyed cocktails, cool sounds and were caught on camera in the custom built 360 video and photo booth.

The AHIA Business entries were judged by an independent panel of international and national judges consisting of industry, media and PR professionals, as well as business specialists from fields including architecture and finance. Names included Alexandra Bilisi, Charlotte Grant-West, Faye Murray, Joanne Charlton, Kirstie Stafford, Narelle Lancaster and Nicole Healy.

Proud sponsors included Redken, Kitomba, Sustainable Salons, Salon Lane, Fresha, Matrix, CPR, Schwarzkopf Professional, Goldwell, Kerasilk, L’Oreal Professionnel, Happy Hair Brush, Shortcuts, DNA Organics, EVY Professional, Comfortel, Hi Lift Professional, Alfaparf Milano Professional, Inspire Brands/Gamma+, Wella Professionals as well as Official Media Partner Hair Biz.

Mocha Group Owner and Founder Linda Woodhead is proud to have been celebrating AHIA Business winners for over a decade now; “The AHIA Business awards were created to combine opportunities for individuals of all levels as well as categories for salons, specialist businesses, educators, and professional products. They provide us with the unique opportunity to celebrate the most impressive business achievements and success on salon floors all across the country. We are committed to providing an exciting snapshot of the impressive quality of the Australian hairdressing industry and these winners are all testament to that.”

2024 AHIA BUSINESS WINNERS

CARE, TREAT, STYLE AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCT AWARDS
BEST IN CARE
Sponsored by Hair Biz
Flower Colour Maintainer Shampoo and Conditioner by milk_shake Australia
 
BEST IN TREAT
Curl Wow Flo-etry Vital Natural Serum by Color Wow
 
BEST IN STYLE
Glow Smooth and Shine by Osis
 
BEST ELECTRICAL
Boss DigiForce Digital Hair Dryer by EVY Professional
 
Salon Team Member of the Year
Sponsored by Hi Lift by M&U Imports
Ben Semple – Circles of Hair
 
Salon Manager/Co-Ordinator of the Year
Sponsored by Wella Professionals
Amber Bullock – Bond Hair Religion
 
Sole Operator of the Year
Sponsored by Salon Lane
Nicole Kae
 
Business Director/Owner of the Year
Sponsored by Kitomba
Sharlene Lee – Circles of Hair
 
Best Business Performance of the Year
Sponsored by Sustainable Salons
Eco Heads
 
Salon Business Newcomer of the Year
Sponsored by Kerasilk
Privé Hair Organics
 
Best Eco Salon
Sponsored by DNA Organics
George & Ivy
 
Best Salon Design
Sponsored by Comfortel
Fon Salon
 
Best Marketing
Sponsored by Shortcuts
Rokstar

Best Customer Care
Sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional
Ms Monaco Hair Society

Salon Team of the Year
Sponsored by Goldwell
Cobelle Creative

Best In Salon Training
Sponsored by Matrix
Bond Hair Religion

Educator of the Year – Individual
Sponsored by Redken
Bernadette Beswick – Beswick Education Services

Educator of the Year – Organisation
Sponsored by Evy Professional
Taylorweir Hairdresser and Barber Training

Educator of the Year – Product or Equipment Company
Sponsored by Hair Biz
L’Oreal Professionnel Education Team

QLD Salon Business of the Year
Sponsored by Wella Professionals
Rokstar

NSW/ACT Salon Business of the Year
Sponsored by Happy Hair Brush
Sloans

VIC Salon Business of the Year
Sponsored by Alfaparf Milano Professional
Telleish Hair Studio

SA/TAS Salon Business of the Year
Sponsored by Fresha
Acqua Lounge Hair Studio

WA/NT Salon Business of the Year
Sponsored by CPR
Circles of Hair

National Wholesaler of the Year 
Sponsored by
Gamma+ and Inspire Brands
Salon Direct Hair & Beauty Supplies

 Special Recognition Award
Sponsored by L’Oreal Professional
Epic Hair Designs

Vidal Sassoon Humanitarian of the Year
Sponsored by mocha goup
Craig Hollywood
Short Back and Sidewalks

Australian Salon Business of the Year
Sponsored by mocha gorup
Circles of Hair

www.mochagroup.com.au
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#ahia2024