When you meet Robyn, it doesn’t take long to feel her fierce, tender, and focused energy. A long-time educator, accomplished coach, Masters Sprint athlete, and dedicated Tai Chi instructor, Robyn brings both movement and deep meaning to the Little BIG community.

Born and raised in Sydney, Robyn’s early career was rooted in education. She taught in regional New South Wales, specialising in expressive arts like dance, drama, and choreography. Her passion for helping people, particularly children and disadvantaged communities, defined much of her professional life.

At 50, a “midlife crisis” sparked a turning point. Encouraged by a friend, she retrained as a personal trainer, reawakening her lifelong fascination with the human body. That path soon led her to Tai Chi, a practice she embraced wholeheartedly. For sixteen years, it has been more than a discipline; it’s become a way of life.

Robyn’s journey hasn’t been without challenge. At 60, she was diagnosed with advanced arthritis, which led to hip and shoulder replacements. Fearing the loss of her athletic identity, she turned fully to Tai Chi. It became her “safe place,” helping her “rebuild from the inside out” and restore a sense of balance, physically and emotionally.

Today, at 66, Robyn remains fiercely driven. Her goals include mastering Tai Chi Sword and winning a gold medal in the 300-meter hurdles at the World Masters Athletics Championships by 2026, a testament to resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of movement.

Robyn first encountered the Little BIG House through flyers in the local Mills precinct. As a long-time Summer Hill resident and personal trainer in the area, she was immediately drawn to the space and its energy. Encouraged by a client, she applied to host Tai Chi classes, and was thrilled to be accepted.

Now, she describes Little BIG House as unlike any other place she’s taught. The open quadrangle, the peaceful upstairs room, and the welcoming community all create a setting where she feels completely “present” while teaching. “When I’m in the quadrangle doing Tai Chi,” she shares, “I’m unaware of the world. I’m completely focused on the energy of the moment.”

She speaks warmly of the volunteers and attendees she’s met, from those creating safe spaces for mental health, to social connectors building community through creativity. All of these make her feel part of something much greater, a place that’s not just operational, but emotional and spiritual too.

Despite her extensive professional background, Robyn offers her Tai Chi sessions at Little BIG for free. “Because it comes from the heart,” she explains. Her goal is to make the classes accessible, especially for older adults or those experiencing financial hardship, illness, or mental distress.

While she plans to offer paid classes, she remains committed to keeping space open for those who need support the most. “If someone walks in who needs Tai Chi, I’m not turning them away. That could change their life.”

Her advice for anyone navigating a midlife crisis? “Find your essence,” she says. “We’re all here for a reason. Start doing something that brings you joy; you never know where it might lead.” Her own path, from educator to sprinter to coach to Tai Chi teacher, is proof of life’s beautiful, unpredictable arc when guided by passion.

Robyn embodies the duality of speed and stillness. She moves fast, but with deep intention. She’s living proof that movement, whether through Tai Chi or racing hurdles, can be a path to healing, growth, and connection.

When asked to describe herself in just one word, she smiles and replies simply: “Passionate.”

Here’s more about Robyn:

I’ve been a Summer Hill local since …

2007 as a Personal Trainer with my business called Family Fit, initially based in Hardie Ave, then moving to Edward St, Summer Hill,  then initiating a mobile business for the local area and further reaches of Sydney.  I also lived in the area with my oldest son going to Summer Hill Public School. 

This community is special to me because …

I have met hundreds of locals who have come to my Personal Training Boutique Gym for classes, small groups and individual sessions. Many of whom have become lifelong friends and a number of people continue to utilise my services in PT, coaching and Tai Chi. Some are still with me after 10-15 years! 

My favourite thing about the Little BIG House is …

The variety of events and people it attracts and encourages to participate, conduct and present special one off, regular and occasional events which allows for a wealth of ‘people experience’ to captivate, support and nurture the local community. 

The event / program I’m running in the Little BIG House is …

Tai Chi which is suitable for everyone. Beginners through to those with previous Tai Chi experience and people of all health and fitness levels. Age is no barrier and Tai Chi, in fact, is a wonderful form of exercise for the older adult, which is wonderful as this is another way of linking people together and reducing loneliness and improving general health and wellbeing.  

I hope this event / program will make participants feel …

Happy and relaxed, challenged yet surprised, supported and acknowledged, and part of a growing group of people who are looking for a safe, easy and friendly exercise experience. 

The top thing on my bucket list is …

To gradually learn Tai Chi with Sword. I have been gifted a sword and am looking forward to learning this art form of Tai Chi, which I know will give me even greater understanding of the depth of Tai Chi, so that as time progresses I gradually become more masterful as a teacher providing all my students with a greater depth and wealth of experience in each session. 

I’m most grateful for …

The opportunity to share Tai Chi with locals at The Little BIG House and to be part of a broader community of people, all delivering a diverse range of activities to enhance people’s lives, and bring happiness to their day. 

The last Little BIG thing / action I did for someone else or received from someone was … 

To share an invitation to attend an event conducted by Jonathan Lee who conducts Social Health Workshops to help people develop friendships, reconnect with your sense of social value and uncover simple ways to meet new people.