StarCentral Kids

Spotlight On Ellory Grace: A Teen Star Inspiring the Next Generation

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Photo Credit: @jzphotography_official

At an age when many teenagers are still discovering their passions, Ellory Grace has already built an impressive career across fashion, entertainment, music, and writing. With confidence, creativity, and a passion for making a difference, she’s proving that young people can dream big while staying true to themselves.

Ellory first captured audiences’ attention with her memorable role as the iconic “Lucerne Milk Girl,” and since then, her career has continued to soar. She has appeared in some of the world’s leading fashion publications, including ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Glamour, and has walked the runway at prestigious fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, and New York.

Her talent has also attracted some of the biggest names in fashion and lifestyle. Over the years, Ellory has worked with internationally recognised brands such as Gap, Levi’s, Skechers, Joyfolie, Pottery Barn Kids, and Forever 21, showcasing her versatility both in front of the camera and on the catwalk.

But modelling is only one part of her story. Ellory is now expanding her career into acting and music, with several exciting projects scheduled for release in 2026. As a songwriter and author, she continues to explore new creative outlets while encouraging other young people to express themselves fearlessly.

Away from the spotlight, Ellory is equally passionate about giving back to the community. She actively supports causes including animal rescue, youth empowerment, and mental health awareness. She also co-sponsors a Holiday Toy Drive benefiting Toys for Tots in Los Angeles, helping provide gifts for children in need during the festive season. Her dedication to community service has earned her the prestigious U.S. Presidential Service Award twice, recognising her commitment to helping others.

With talent, kindness, and determination leading the way, Ellory Grace is a shining example that success is about more than fame—it’s about making a positive impact.

StarCentral Kids recently had the opportunity to sit down with Ellory Grace for an exclusive interview, where she shared insights into her career, creative passions, and advice for young dreamers. Here’s what went down:

1. You’ve built an impressive career across modelling, acting, songwriting, and writing — how do you balance all these creative paths while still being a teenager?

I’ve always been the kind of person who gets stuck on one thought longer than everyone else. Most people move on, but I’m still thinking about it. That’s usually how my songs start. Sometimes it’s one sentence in my Notes app. Sometimes it’s a question I can’t stop coming back to. I never really know where it’ll end up. One day I’m sitting in class, the next I’m in a recording session in LA, and somewhere in between, a song just kind of appears. I guess that’s just become my normal.

Photo Credit: Josh Moreland

2. From walking at Paris, Milan, and New York Fashion Weeks to working with global brands like Levi’s and Gap, what has been your most defining career moment so far?

Walking those runways and working with those brands was such a cool experience, especially because I got to do it starting from such a young age. Looking back, I don’t think I realized at the time how much those experiences were shaping me. For a long time, I was helping bring other people’s ideas to life. Music feels different because it’s the first time people are getting to know me. I think that’s what makes this chapter so exciting.

3. You first became widely recognized as the “Lucerne Milk Girl” — how do you reflect on that early role now that you’ve evolved into a multi-hyphenate creative?

It always makes me smile because I was so little that I had no idea people would still remember it years later. To me, it was just a really fun day on set. Looking back now, it’s funny to think that something that felt so ordinary at the time became something people still remember from my childhood.

4. Many teens struggle to balance identity and public image — how do you stay grounded and authentic in such a fast-paced industry?

I think it’s really easy to feel like you know someone from social media, but it’s only a tiny part of who they are. I’m still figuring out who I am, just like every other 17-year-old. The only difference is that some of that happens where other people can see it. My family and friends have known me long before any of this, so they remind me to be the same person I’ve always been, not the person people expect me to be.

Photo Credit: [from Ellory’s personal collection]

5. You’ve been featured in major publications like ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Glamour — what do you think sets your story apart in the fashion and entertainment world?

I’ve been lucky enough to grow up in a lot of different creative worlds, but I think the one thing that’s always stayed the same is that I notice little moments other people might not think twice about. I’ll hear one sentence or notice something small, and somehow it sticks with me. I don’t always know why at the time, but looking back, those are usually the moments that stay with me the longest.

6. You’re also developing projects in acting and music for 2026 — what can you share about the direction you’re taking creatively, and what excites you most about this next chapter?

I think what excites me most is that I still don’t know what my favorite story will be. It could be a song, it could be a character, or it could be something I haven’t even imagined yet. I hope it surprises me.

Photo Credit: [from Ellory’s personal collection]

7. Philanthropy plays a major role in your life, from youth empowerment to animal rescue and the Toys for Tots holiday drive — what drives your passion for giving back?

I’ve always noticed the things people don’t always see. Sometimes it’s the person who gets overlooked or someone who says they’re fine, but you can tell they’re really not. You never really know what someone is carrying, and I think that’s probably why giving back has always mattered so much to me. If I can make one person feel a little less alone or leave their day a little better than I found it, then I think that’s a pretty good day.

8. As a two-time recipient of the U.S. Presidential Service Award, what do service and impact mean to you personally beyond recognition or awards?

Receiving those awards was really special, and I’m so grateful for them. But to me, they aren’t a reminder of what I’ve done; they’re a reminder of the kind of person I want to keep being. I think that’s something I’ll always be prouder of than any award.

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Minions & Monsters. . . A Chaotic Love Letter to Movies and Mayhem!

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Editorial credit: Opasbbb / Shutterstock.com

The Despicable Me universe has never been short on chaos, but Minions & Monsters takes a surprising detour into something much more layered. Beneath its bright colours, slapstick gags, and familiar Minion mischief, there’s a story that quietly pokes fun at the very place it comes from — Hollywood itself.

At the centre of it all is James, a Minion who doesn’t quite fit the mould. While the rest of his crew happily follows the usual routine of work, obedience, and banana-fuelled distraction, James wants something different: to create. His drawings and ideas are dismissed as pointless by the group’s leader, Dick, but James refuses to let his imagination be flattened. That simple conflict — creativity versus conformity — becomes the emotional spark of the film.

What gives the story its unexpected depth is James’ relationship with Max, an experienced filmmaker who knows exactly how unforgiving the industry can be. Max doesn’t sugar-coat it. He describes a world where art is often reduced to numbers, where creative voices are shaped by producers more interested in control than storytelling. It’s a surprisingly sharp message for a kids’ film, but it’s handled with enough warmth and humour to keep it accessible.

Through Max, James learns to keep going even when the system around him feels stacked against creativity. His journey becomes less about making a perfect film and more about protecting his ideas in a world that keeps trying to reshape them.

As the story unfolds, things spiral into classic Minions-style mayhem. A mysterious creature named Goomi and a gigantic multi-eyed monster named Irene turn the filmmaking dream into a full-blown disaster zone. What starts as a creative adventure quickly becomes a chaotic “film within a film” situation, where everything that can go wrong absolutely does.

James’ small crew adds to the heart of the story. Henry is fearless and loyal, always ready to throw himself into danger for the sake of the camera, while Ed — a deaf Minion who communicates through sign language — becomes the quiet backbone of the group, keeping everything together when things fall apart. Their teamwork gives the film genuine warmth underneath all the chaos.

There are also clever nods to cinema history sprinkled throughout, including a playful sense of old Hollywood silent films and even a surprise cameo that film fans will appreciate. At its best, Minions & Monsters feels like a celebration of movie-making itself — messy, unpredictable, and full of imagination.

But the film isn’t perfectly balanced. The first half is where most of the fun and energy lives, with fast-paced comedy and sharp visual gags that really land. The second half, however, shifts into heavier monster territory, and the story loses some of its rhythm. The humour becomes less consistent, and the emotional thread of James’ filmmaking journey gets slightly buried under the chaos.

Even so, the animation remains outstanding throughout, bursting with detail, colour, and creative design. Voice performances — including a standout turn from Trey Parker as Goomi — add extra personality to an already lively world.

What Minions & Monsters does best is remind us why this franchise works in the first place. Yes, it’s silly. Yes, it’s chaotic. But when it leans into creativity — both in storytelling and in its tribute to cinema — it becomes something more enjoyable and surprisingly heartfelt.

It may not fully stick the landing, but it’s still a fun, energetic ride that celebrates imagination, teamwork, and the messy joy of making something from nothing.

Rating: 3/5 Stars

StarCentral Kids Spotlight: Cris Cadungog Collection Shines at World’s Best Dressed 2026

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Strathfield Golf Club was transformed into a stage of elegance and creativity as the Cris Cadungog Collection took centre stage at World’s Best Dressed 2026, presented by MS Entertainment Network in collaboration with StarCentral Magazine and StarCentral Kids.

Far more than a fashion showcase, the event celebrated design artistry, with the Cris Cadungog collection emerging as the undeniable highlight of the evening. Each piece brought a unique blend of sophistication, structure, and modern flair, reflecting a designer with a clear vision for elegance and contemporary style.

A standout element of the showcase was the way teen models brought the Cris Cadungog designs to life on the runway. With confidence, poise, and personality, they elevated each look, adding movement and energy that highlighted the collection’s creativity.

For many young models, walking in such a professionally curated designer collection was a valuable experience — offering them the chance to engage with high fashion in a real-world runway environment.

The runway moments were beautifully captured by photographers, with images courtesy of Mohan Raj, preserving the elegance and atmosphere of the evening. From detailed close-ups of the garments to dynamic runway shots, the collection was showcased in its full visual impact.

Paramount Unveils Official Trailer and First Look Images for “The Angry Birds Movie 3”

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Get ready for feathers, fun, and family chaos as The Angry Birds Movie 3 is officially heading to cinemas this Boxing Day, with Paramount Pictures releasing the first trailer and brand-new images from the highly anticipated animated sequel.

Presented by Paramount Pictures in association with Rovio Entertainment Ltd., One Cool Group, Flywheel Media, and Dentsu, and produced by Prime Focus and John Cohen Production, the next chapter in the beloved franchise promises bigger laughs, higher stakes, and even more outrageous bird-powered action.

In The Angry Birds Movie 3, one angry bird faces his greatest challenge yet—not just saving the world, but surviving fatherhood along the way. The story takes fans on a wild and heartwarming journey filled with comedy, teamwork, and unexpected heroics, making it a perfect holiday treat for audiences of all ages.

The film is directed by John Rice, with a screenplay by Thurop Van Orman, and produced by John Cohen, Dan Chuba, Carla Connor, and Namit Malhotra. Executive producers include Louis Koo, Toru Nakahara, Ben Mattes, and a wide international team of creative talent helping bring the colourful world of Angry Birds back to life.

The star-studded voice cast features Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Emma Myers, Rachel Bloom, Walker Scobell, Danny McBride, Marcello Hernández, Tim Robinson, Anna Cathcart, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Nikki Glaser, MrBeast, Salish Matter, Psalm West, Sam Richardson, James Austin Johnson, alongside Lily James and Keke Palmer.

With its official trailer and first-look images now released, excitement is already soaring for what promises to be one of the most entertaining animated releases of the holiday season. The Angry Birds Movie 3 lands exclusively in cinemas this Boxing Day.

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Is Toy Story 5 Worth Watching??

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Editorial credit: tetesong / Shutterstock.com

When we sat down to watch Toy Story 5, we honestly weren’t expecting much. After so many sequels, it would’ve been easy for Pixar to run out of ideas. But even though the movie didn’t completely blow me away, we still walked out of the cinema having a really good time.

Once again, Pixar proves why it’s one of the best animation studios in the world. The animation is absolutely stunning, with every scene packed full of detail and colour. You can really tell there’s years of experience behind every frame. Even when the story feels a bit uneven at times, it still looks incredible from start to finish.

A Story About the Digital World

This time around, Toy Story 5 tackles something very modern — kids growing up in a world dominated by technology. Instead of a classic villain, the film focuses on a broader idea: what happens when toys (and imagination) are pushed aside as children are glued to screens.

It’s actually a pretty clever idea, and it feels surprisingly relevant. The movie shows how playtime is changing, and how toys like Woody, Buzz, and Jessie are trying to find their place in this new world.

Jessie Steps Into the Spotlight

One of the biggest changes in this film is that Jessie finally gets a much bigger role. Woody and Buzz are still around, but this really feels like Jessie’s story. Some fans might miss seeing Woody take charge, but it makes sense — his journey already feels complete.

Jessie is a great choice to lead the film. She’s energetic, brave, and full of heart, and it’s nice to see her finally given the spotlight she deserves. There are also some fun new toy characters introduced, including a tablet-like character that represents modern technology.

Funny, Emotional… but Not Perfect

The movie has plenty of funny moments, some exciting adventure scenes, and a few emotional beats that actually work really well. However, the story does feel a bit uneven at times, and some parts feel like they move too quickly or don’t quite land as strongly as they should.

It’s also a little more straightforward compared to earlier Toy Story films. While kids will definitely enjoy it, older fans might notice that some of the clever layered jokes from previous movies aren’t as strong this time around.

A Message for Kids and Parents

Interestingly, Toy Story 5 feels like it’s aimed just as much at parents as it is at kids. It reflects on how technology is changing childhood, and it might even make adults think about how much screen time kids really get these days.

The message isn’t about blaming technology itself, but more about how it’s used — and how important imagination and play still are.

Final Verdict

Toy Story 5 isn’t the strongest film in the franchise, but it’s definitely far from a disappointment. It’s fun, colourful, and heartfelt, with a strong message at its core. Jessie shines as the lead, the animation is top-tier, and the world of Toy Story still feels full of life.

It might not reach the magic of the original trilogy, but it still proves one thing clearly — even the “weaker” Toy Story movie is still a really enjoyable adventure.

Rating: 3/5 Stars

StarCentral Kids Spotlight: Young Models Shine as Cover Stars at World’s Best Dressed 2026

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Strathfield Golf Club was filled with glamour, excitement, and runway energy as kids and teen models stepped into the spotlight as the official Cover Stars of World’s Best Dressed Magazine 2026.

Presented by MS Entertainment Network, in collaboration with StarCentral Magazine and StarCentral Kids, the event celebrated fashion, confidence, and creativity — with the next generation of models taking centre stage in a truly memorable showcase.

One of the most exciting highlights of the day was watching young models walk the runway with the confidence and presence of magazine cover stars.

For many of the participants, this moment marked a major milestone — stepping into a role that mirrors real magazine cover shoots and high-fashion editorial work.

A Runway Full of Confidence and Personality

What made the showcase truly special was the individuality each model brought to the stage. Some delivered bold, expressive walks, while others carried a soft elegance — but all shared one thing in common: confidence.

The audience watched as the runway transformed into a live magazine editorial, with each model representing the front cover of World’s Best Dressed in their own unique way.

Cheering families, photographers, and industry guests captured every moment as the young stars embraced the spotlight with pride.

StarCentral Kids Celebration of Young Talent

At StarCentral Kids, we love highlighting opportunities where young talent can grow and shine — and the Cover Stars segment of World’s Best Dressed 2026 did exactly that.

Seeing kids and teens step into the role of magazine cover models showed just how powerful fashion can be as a form of storytelling and self-expression.

Sydney’s Best Dressed Model of the Year Returns for 2026!

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Calling all future fashion stars! One of Sydney’s most exciting modelling competitions is back, and it’s bigger than ever.

Sydney’s Best Dressed Model of the Year is officially returning in 2026, giving young aspiring models the chance to shine on the runway, build confidence, and experience the exciting world of fashion.

The competition is open to two age divisions:

• Female Kids (ages 6–12)
• Teen Models (ages 13–19)

Adding to the excitement, contestants will be competing for an incredible $2,500 in cash and prizes, making this one of the most rewarding opportunities for young aspiring models in Sydney.

For many participants, this event is much more than a competition. It is a fun and supportive platform where young models can learn new skills, make friends, and gain valuable experience in a professional fashion environment.

Whether contestants dream of becoming runway models, magazine cover stars, performers, or public speakers, Sydney’s Best Dressed Model of the Year provides an opportunity to take those first important steps towards achieving their goals.

The competition is dedicated to empowering young women from all cultural backgrounds. Participants are encouraged to embrace their individuality, celebrate their unique qualities, and develop self-confidence both on and off the runway.

Contestants will have the chance to showcase their personality, style, and poise while learning important life skills such as self-expression, discipline, and teamwork. The experience helps build confidence that can benefit them not only in fashion but also in school, community activities, and future careers.

Organisers continue to focus on discovering and nurturing the next generation of talent. Through professional exposure and positive mentoring, participants gain valuable insights into the modelling industry while creating unforgettable memories along the way.

For many young models, this competition has become the beginning of an exciting journey filled with opportunities, friendships, and personal growth. Along with the chance to win prestigious titles and exciting prizes, participants gain valuable runway experience and exposure that can help open doors within the fashion and modelling industry.

Could you be Sydney’s next Best Dressed Model of the Year? With $2,500 in cash and prizes up for grabs, the runway is waiting for the stars of tomorrow!

Backstreet Boys Drop New Song “Bottle Up” for PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie!

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Get ready for a dino-sized adventure with music, excitement, and everyone’s favourite heroic pups!

The legendary pop group Backstreet Boys have released a brand-new song called “Bottle Up”, specially made for the upcoming animated blockbuster PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie. The song, along with its colourful music video, is out now and already getting fans singing and dancing along!

A Dino Island Adventure

In this brand-new PAW Patrol adventure, things take a wild turn when the pups’ ship is caught in a mysterious storm. They crash land on a hidden tropical island—only to discover it’s full of real dinosaurs! 🦕

But they’re not alone…

The pups meet Rex, a clever dino-expert pup who has been living on the island for years. With his help, they quickly learn how to survive in a world where everything is bigger, louder, and much more prehistoric!

Trouble from Mayor Humdinger!

Just when things start to settle, the PAW Patrol’s biggest troublemaker, Mayor Humdinger, arrives with a very bad plan. He begins mining the island for its natural resources—without caring about the danger he’s causing.

His reckless actions accidentally trigger a massive volcano eruption, putting the entire island at risk!

Now it’s up to Ryder and the pups to jump into action for their biggest mission yet.

Dino-Sized Rescue Missions

From racing to stop lava flows to saving dinosaurs in danger, the PAW Patrol face challenges bigger than ever before. Every pup will need to use their skills, teamwork, and courage to stop Humdinger and save the island from disaster.

Star-Studded Cast

The film features an amazing voice cast including Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Jennifer Hudson, Bill Nye, Paris Hilton, Snoop Dogg, and many more exciting stars!

🎤 Music + Adventure Combined!

With the Backstreet Boys’ energetic new track “Bottle Up” powering the adventure, PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie promises action, laughs, and plenty of sing-along moments for kids and families everywhere.

So get ready—because this is one dino adventure you won’t want to miss!

PAW Patrol Goes Dino-Sized in an Epic New Adventure!

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Get ready, PAW Patrol fans! Chase, Skye, Marshall, Rubble, and the rest of the heroic pups are back for their biggest adventure yet in PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie!

This exciting new animated film takes the beloved rescue team somewhere they’ve never been before—a mysterious tropical island filled with real-life dinosaurs!

The adventure begins when the PAW Patrol’s ship gets caught in a strange storm, causing the pups to crash-land on an uncharted island. There, they discover a prehistoric paradise where dinosaurs still roam freely.

Luckily, they meet Rex, a brave pup who has been stranded on the island for years. Rex knows everything there is to know about dinosaurs and quickly becomes a valuable friend to the PAW Patrol team.

But trouble isn’t far behind!

The pups’ longtime rival, Mayor Humdinger, arrives on the island with plans to mine its natural resources. His reckless actions accidentally trigger a massive volcanic eruption, putting the island, its dinosaur inhabitants, and everyone on it in danger.

Now it’s up to the PAW Patrol to tackle a series of thrilling, dino-sized rescues unlike anything they’ve faced before. From escaping erupting volcanoes to protecting gigantic dinosaurs, the pups must work together to save the island before disaster strikes.

The film features an all-star voice cast, including Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Jennifer Hudson, Fortune Feimster, Jameela Jamil, Bill Nye, Paris Hilton, and Snoop Dogg, along with many talented young performers bringing the adventure to life.

Adding even more excitement, the movie’s new trailer features the catchy song “Bottle Up” by the legendary Backstreet Boys, giving fans another reason to get excited for the film.

Why Kids Will Love It

✅ Dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes
✅ Action-packed rescue missions
✅ Friendship and teamwork lessons
✅ Brand-new characters to meet
✅ Exciting tropical island adventure
✅ Lots of laughs and heartwarming moments

Whether you’re a dinosaur expert or simply love the PAW Patrol pups, this movie promises prehistoric fun, thrilling action, and plenty of tail-wagging excitement.

So buckle up, grab your pup pack, and get ready for an adventure of prehistoric PAW-portions!

PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie is coming soon to cinemas, and it looks set to be one of the most exciting family films of the year.

PAW Patrol is on a roll… and this time, they’re going prehistoric!

One Last Glow: Experience the Magic of Vivid Sydney’s Grand Finale on June 13

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Time is running out to experience one of Sydney’s most spectacular events! This Saturday, June 13, marks the final day of Vivid Sydney, giving families one last chance to enjoy the dazzling lights, exciting entertainment, and unforgettable atmosphere that have transformed the city into a glowing wonderland.

If you’ve been planning to visit or hoping to squeeze in one more magical adventure, now is the perfect time. Head to Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park, where an evening packed with family fun awaits.

The excitement begins at 5:00 pm with Tumbalong Kids, a series of FREE family-friendly shows specially designed to entertain children of all ages. Get ready to dance, sing, laugh, and join in the fun as energetic performers bring the stage to life. It’s the perfect way to kick off your Vivid Sydney adventure before exploring the famous Light Walk.

As the sun sets, Darling Harbour comes alive with dazzling colours, glowing sculptures, and incredible light installations that spark the imagination. Every turn reveals something magical, from giant illuminated artworks to interactive displays that make visitors feel like they’ve stepped into another world.

Kids will love discovering the glowing creations while parents can enjoy capturing memorable family photos against the spectacular backdrop of Sydney’s iconic waterfront.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Families can also enjoy live music performances throughout the evening, creating an exciting festival atmosphere that makes Vivid Sydney one of Australia’s most loved events.

Feeling hungry after all that exploring? Darling Harbour offers plenty of family-friendly dining options where you can grab dinner, a sweet treat, or a quick snack before continuing your adventure.

Best of all, many of the attractions and activities are completely free, making it an affordable and memorable night out for the whole family.

But remember—this Saturday is your last chance! Once the lights switch off at the end of the evening, Vivid Sydney 2026 will officially come to a close until next year.

So gather your family, put on your walking shoes, and prepare for one final night of wonder, creativity, and excitement. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for one last look, the final day of Vivid Sydney promises to be a magical experience you won’t forget.