Laura’s connection to Airlie Beach started in 2010 when she arrived from the Netherlands for a holiday. Fate intervened when she met her soulmate aboard ‘SV Siska’. She started living in Airlie in 2011 and married a year later. Along the way, their beautiful children, Kayne and Siska, were born.

It was after these life milestones that Laura had the idea to start her own Beef Jerky business. But life threw an unexpected challenge in her path. Just as her business plan began to form, Laura became seriously ill, leaving her unable to work for three and a half years.

Overcoming the Odds

Laura battled pericarditis and debilitating brain fog, which made simple day-to-day tasks a huge struggle. She describes the period as feeling dusty, stiff, and unfit, like being put in a cupboard for two and a half years.

When she finally received the all-clear from her cardiologist, the recovery process began – a complete start over, filled with ups and downs. Laura credits strength training and Pilates, recalling a moment when she cried from sheer happiness during her first pain-free session.

Slowly, over a year, she regained her strength and her thoughts returned to her small business idea.

“I was nervous at the start, and it wasn’t always perfect, but slowly it all came together,” Laura shares.

Top Tukka Takes Off

Now, just four months into her journey with Top Tukka (starting in June 2025) , Laura loves what she does. Her time at the markets is rewarding, offering her the chance to be around people and hear their stories. She is thankful for every day she wakes up without pain, allowing her to have a ‘normal’ life and enjoy time with her children—something she missed dearly.

“I’m proud of how far I’ve come,” she states.

The Artisan Touch

Top Tukka focuses on quality first. The beef jerky is sourced from The Jerky Co in Western Australia because Laura believes it’s the best. What makes her product stand out is the commitment to quality ingredients: it’s 100% MSA Grade Beef, high in protein, contains no added preservatives, and is proudly Made in Australia.

Laura ensures her packaging reflects her dedication, using environmentally friendly paper bags and her own custom-designed stickers.

For Laura, the market has been a platform for more than just sales—it has fostered incredible community support.

“I have met so many lovely locals who come back for the beef jerky. It’s nice to see they support me,” she says.

The market exposure has also led to incredible support from other local businesses, including Oceanic Tales and Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle, where Top Tukka’s delicious jerky is now stocked. This is exactly how the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets help local entrepreneurs grow within the Whitsunday community.