After growing up in Darwin, Leanne Scott-Toms travelled the world. Now she’s returned home and is leaving her own mark on the city.
WORDS BY ALLEY PASCOE PHOTOS BY GEORGE FRAGOPOULOS
Q: You’re the owner of holiday accommodation business Stay Your Way as well as the dance troupe Karibu Collective, and a sales agent at Ray White. What do you do in all your spare time?
A: When I’m not doing all of the above, I’m chilling with my 16-year-old dog Archie. He’s such a little gentleman, and a star in his own right; he’s been dressed as Doggy Parton, performed in a six-week Christmas show and won the Camp Dog Show at the Pride festival for his impersonation of Madonna.
Q: That’s quite the resume – for both you and Archie. But seriously, is there anything you can’t do? Please tell us you’re a bad cook at least…
A: [Laughing] I’m bad at keeping the kitchen clean as I go, although I always recall my Nanna saying “A good cook is a messy cook.” I do enjoy cooking with my partner Andrew and we recently hosted a Peruvian feast with our friends.
Q: As the manager of 29 Airbnbs here, where’s your favourite place for a staycation in Darwin?
A: The Waterfront, all my favourite things are down there (including the salt and pepper crocodile at Snapper Rocks). It’s like being on holidays at home.
Q: And as the founder of Karibu Collective, where’s your favourite place to dance in Darwin?
A: We’ve danced on the main stage at the Darwin Festival, on the lawns of the Mindil Beach Casino, at the Darwin Entertainment Centre and at the Convention Centre. Performing for the community is such an amazing opportunity.
Q: You do so many things out and about in Darwin. Tell us something most people don’t know about you…
A: Fun fact: I was the choreographer for the movie Top End Wedding and went to Salt Lake City for the World Premiere.
Q: How would you describe yourself in three words?
A: Creative, overthinker, adventurous.
Q: How would your mum describe you in three words?
A: Thoughtful, patient, stylish (I did ask Mum and she wanted me to put that last one in and remind me that I don’t need to buy anymore clothes).
Q: Give us your local tips… Best sunset spot in Darwin? Best cocktail? Best laksa?
A: Sunset on our balcony, Mango Daiquiri from Snapper Rocks, and laksa from The Purple Lady on Saturday at Parap markets.
Follow Leanne on Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StayYourWayaccom
