INTERVIEW with Tony Ongart || Island Haus Runway 2026 Runway Model

SD: Hi, Tony. For my readers who don’t know you yet, can you please introduce yourself?

TO: Hi, my name is Tony Ongart. I’m a Gold Coast-based model who is relatively new to the industry, having walked in Gold Coast Swim Week and Valor Men’s Fashion Review. I’ve been fortunate enough to work on runway shows, photoshoots and different creative projects, and I’m really enjoying pushing myself, meeting new people and seeing where this journey takes me.

SD: Describe your personal style of clothing?

TO: I have quite a few different styles depending on the occasion, and I’m always trying out new looks. I feel most comfortable in streetwear or resort wear, though, and I tend to wear gym clothes quite a bit too, as I train most days.

SD: When did you know you wanted to be a model?

TO: It was actually so random how it all began. My best friend sent me a post on Instagram about a runway show and asked if I was keen to do it, and I said, “Yeah, keen.” We did the show just for fun to see what it would be like, and from there it started opening up so many doors and opportunities. I met so many new people, got to experience different parts of the industry, and started thinking that this could actually lead to something bigger.

SD: If you could talk to your ten-year-old self, what would you say?

TO: I’d probably tell my 10-year-old self that the dream of becoming a sumo wrestler might not be the best idea. I ended up putting on quite a bit of weight, which unfortunately led to some bullying at school. Looking back, though, it ended up motivating me to get into the gym and start taking an interest in fitness. I never would have imagined that years later it would become such a big part of my life and eventually lead me into modelling.

SD: What has been your favourite photoshoot to date?

TO: I don’t particularly have a favourite photoshoot. I find that any shoot that involves working with friends or meeting new, like-minded people is always fun. I also really enjoy shoots where I get to wear something I wouldn’t normally wear in my day-to-day life. It’s cool being able to experiment with different styles and step outside my usual comfort zone.

SD: What are you most excited about for Island Haus Runway?

TO: A few model friends I’ve worked alongside are walking in the show too, so I’m excited to see them again. I’m also looking forward to meeting new people, having some fun with it and seeing what opportunities come from the event.

Tickets are selling out fast. See Tony on the runway and buy your tickets HERE

Island Haus Runway:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islandhausrunway/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586227610162
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@islandhausrunway

Tony Ongart:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonytheboywholived/

Photo Credits:

First Photo: Taken by Lucid Dreams Imagery
Second Photo: Taken by Grey Wolf Studio