AUSTRALIA’S number one athlete on the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation list, Bendigo-based James Hume, is aiming for more individual success as this year rolls on and into 2027.
A superb year on the bodybuilding front included the first Work Hard Play Hard men’s bodybuilding overall champion and male professional athlete awards.
The 24-year-old is building up for a return to competition in Brisbane on 30 August.
A goal is to add an Organisation Of Competition Bodies pro card to his list.
“It’s the one pro card I do not have,” Hume said.
It’s not just on-stage performances where Hume has succeeded this year.
He has earnt an International Natural Bodybuilding Association coaches award in what is his third year of coaching for bodybuilding poses.
“There was a big change to branding earlier in the year,” Hume said of his business venture through Stoic Posing Society.
Hume’s partner Alexandra Duck has played a crucial role in raising Stoic’s client base and profile.
“Alexandra rebranded Stoic, runs the daily operations and is an incredible support to me,” Hume said.
Stoic has four coaches based along the east coast and more than 60 clients.
There’s also been a career change where Hume has crossed from working in the banking sector to now be with McGrath Real Estate.
“There’s so much to learn, but I have great support,” he said.
It’s a hectic time for Hume, who trains six days a week, splitting between cardio sessions which may involve running or cross-fit, and then weights later in the day.
It was not just bodybuilding where Hume stepped up for challenges as his year included cross-fit competitions with Duck, and he also ran a marathon.
A Bendigo Sports Star of the Year finalist in 2024 and 2025, Hume continues to inspire and help others close to home at Silverback Gym, but also across the country and around the world.
His client list for Stoic covers a wide range of ages and competition experience.
“Playing a part in helping others prepare to compete and achieve success, no matter the result or sport, is incredibly fulfilling,” he said.
