Emma Harrison, the talented actress known for her role as Joanna Hartman during the 90s in the beloved Australian soap-opera Neighbours, has taken an unconventional turn in her life. After a successful career in the entertainment industry, Emma has now chosen to live in a converted shipping container.
Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, and raised in Australia, Emma started her career in the spotlight as a model and dancer. Her journey into fame began at 15 when a local modelling agency discovered her. From there, she graced the covers of prestigious magazines like FHM, Loaded, Maxim, and Ralph, earning herself a spot on FHM’s 100 sexiest women of 1998 list.
In 1995, Emma’s life took an exciting turn when she auditioned for the role of Joanna Hartman in Neighbours. Little did she know she would become Annalise Hartman’s long-lost sister on the show. Although her time on Neighbours was short-lived, her performance was recognized with a nomination for Best New Talent at the Logie Awards.
After leaving the soap opera, Emma ventured into various other projects, including appearances in films like Intolerable Cruelty and Street Fighter. She also travelled to the UK, hosting television programmes and even presenting the prestigious BAFTA Awards.
Despite her successful career in the spotlight, Emma’s path has led her to a different way of life. At 49 years old, she resides in a converted shipping container, a unique living space she proudly calls home. Speaking about her eco-friendly living arrangement on Australia’s The Morning Show, Emma shared her passion for sustainability and the conscious decision to lead a more minimalistic lifestyle.
Her shipping container home consists of two containers, separated by a balcony, offering a spacious and sustainable living space. Emma emphasised the importance of reducing her environmental footprint, contributing her part to a more considerable effort to protect the planet.
Speaking on her home, she stated: “Well, there’s a lot of focus on sustainability these days, and I feel like, you know, everybody’s got to do their bit because our little bit is part of a much larger bit.
“You know, sort of being more minimalistic and not over-consuming was a conscious choice. So it makes us feel so happy that yeah we’re just decreasing our footprint on the planet.”
While her days on Neighbours and the glamorous modelling world were filled with excitement, Emma expressed that family and motherhood have become her main focus and priority at this stage in her life. Alongside her partner Cade and their children, Emma has found contentment in a quieter life away from the spotlight.
Emma Harrison’s path from soap star to model to sustainable living enthusiast is a testament to the power of embracing change and living life on one’s terms. As she continues her journey, Emma proves that the road less travelled sometimes leads to the most fulfilling destinations.