About Our Club
Beachside Physical Culture Club was established in 2019. In 2023 we celebrated 5 Years servicing Blue Haven, Budgewoi and their surrounding suburbs. We are a not-for-profit community sport provider with volunteer associate teachers who contribute their time and expertise to our wonderful members and our club.
Beachside Physie Culture Club provides an all-inclusive environment, catering to females of all ages and abilities. We structure our classes to suit beginners as well as more experienced dancers or those wishing to return after a long break. Unlike many other ballet and dance studios, our primary focus is on nurturing the self-esteem and confidence of our students by teaching them to have a positive relationship with their bodies and help our members blossom with confidence and self-assurance. Beachside Physie is passionate about nurturing our members total wellbeing in both mind and body. Not only individual, but we are also a team sport accepting and encouraging our members to be the best version of themselves.
Beachside Physie is proudly sponsored by Wyong Leagues Group, and we encourage all our family’s to support our partnership by becoming a member at one of their many venues across the Coast.
Ashleigh Thomas
Founder - Head Associate
Ashleigh has been passionate about Physie since the age of 4, enjoying a successful career as a competitor and teacher. She has performed as a national finalist on the iconic Opera House stage and contributed to numerous National Team titles as a supportive team member. In 2019, Ashleigh led Beachside’s first-ever Ladies team to win the National B Grade Championship trophy.
Beyond Physie, Ashleigh achieved remarkable success as a synchronized swimmer. She was a multi-year National Junior Champion and competed globally, earning a 4th place world ranking at 15 years old. In 2002, she represented her country at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester, winning a Bronze Medal in the Duet Event.
Now a proud mum of five, including her baby girl Amelia born in July 2023, Ashleigh balances family life with her passion for Physie. She fosters a welcoming and supportive environment, tailoring her classes to suit all levels—from beginners to experienced dancers. Her goal is to help every student feel confident, valued, and empowered to enjoy the excitement and joy of Physie.
Paige Stottelaar
Associate Teacher
Paige brings passion, commitment, and a nurturing approach to Beachside, creating a positive impact on our community. With a background in primary special education, Paige is skilled at adapting lessons to ensure every student feels supported, confident, and capable.
Her empathetic teaching style fosters a welcoming environment where all students, including those needing extra assistance, can thrive. By understanding each child’s individual learning style, Paige helps students build resilience, self-belief, and joy in movement.
Paige embodies the supportive spirit of Beachside. Her dedication and influence continue to shape our classes into more than just dance lessons—they are opportunities for personal growth and empowerment. Beachside is proud to have Paige on our team, and we look forward to seeing the lasting difference she will make in our community.
Gayle Forster
Associate Teacher
Gayle is our cherished teacher’s mentor and advisor, bringing decades of experience and a deep passion for Physie to Beachside. Starting her Physie journey as a competitor at age 11, Gayle began teaching in the late 1970s at Merrylands Physical Culture Club, where Ashleigh herself started as a young girl.
As a competitor, Gayle achieved great success, earning multiple Zone Champion titles and competing as a national finalist at the Sydney Opera House. As a teacher, she has guided Ladies and Seniors for over 20 years, achieving outstanding results in both team and individual events.
Joining Beachside in early 2020, Gayle has become a beloved member of our teaching team. Her wealth of knowledge, combined with her caring and gentle approach to teaching and corrections, creates a balanced and dynamic partnership within our Associate teaching team. Our members adore her, and we are grateful for the wisdom and heart she brings to our community.
Annaleigh Bracken
Teaching Assistant
We are thrilled to welcome Annie to our teaching team in 2025! A Physie girl since the age of 3, Annie has blossomed into an exceptional performer and an inspiring leader in the Physie community.
Annie will be assisting Miss Ash with the Mini Mermaids and 5–8-year-olds, bringing her passion for Physie and dance to our youngest superstars.
Her focus will be on providing guidance, encouragement, and building confidence, ensuring every girl feels supported as they develop their skills and love for dance. We can’t wait to see Annie grow as a teacher and make a lasting impact on our Beachside family.
