General News
10 July, 2026
Mum’s clever idea
AN outdoor apparel brand inspired by family life in the Far North is expanding its reach through BCF across Queensland – including Cairns – as well as New South Wales and Western Australia.
Little Fisho founder Steph Fetterplace first came up with the idea for her ‘UV Defender Onesie’ while living in Port Douglas on maternity leave with her daughter, Kyra, now two-years-old.
Like many local families, weekends were often spent fishing, boating, camping and exploring the outdoors.
But finding practical clothing that protected babies from the sun and mosquitoes while remaining cool and comfortable in the North Queensland climate proved surprisingly difficult.
Rather than giving up the outdoor lifestyle she and her husband loved, Ms Fetterplace decided to create a solution.
“The idea came directly from our Far North Queensland lifestyle,” she said.
Ms Fetterplace said the family spent a lot of time outdoors but couldn’t find anything for their daughter that offered the combination of comfort, coverage and practicality they were looking for.
“Anyone who has raised children in Far North Queensland, especially a baby born at the end of November during one of the hottest and most humid times of the year, knows the conditions can be challenging.
“The heat, humidity, mosquitoes and intense sun are all part of everyday life, especially if your family enjoys boating, camping and fishing.
“I didn’t set out to start a business. I was simply trying to solve a problem I was experiencing as a new mum.
“When I couldn’t find what I was looking for, I decided to create it myself.”
Little Fisho officially launched its first range in January 2025 and has since sold more than 2000 UV Defender Onesies through its direct-to-consumer website and retail
partners.
The brand first launched into BCF stores in Mackay, Townsville and Hervey Bay, as well as online at BCF.com.au in October 2025, and is now expanding from three stores to 12 locations nationally from August 2026, including BCF Cairns.
For Ms Fetterplace, seeing the brand arrive in Cairns is particularly meaningful.
“Far North Queensland is where Little Fisho was born,” she said.
“The lifestyle here shaped our UV Defender Onesie from day one and continues to influence everything we do.
“To now see our range launching in Cairns as part of our national BCF expansion
feels like a full-circle moment.”
The onesie was designed for outdoor-loving families who want to keep babies and toddlers comfortable during long days outside.
Made from lightweight, breathable and quick-drying fabric, it features full-length arms and legs, fold-over hands and feet for added protection when needed, a vented mesh back panel for extra airflow and a two-way zipper for easy nappy changes.
Ms Fetterplace said while Little Fisho had grown beyond Far North Queensland, the region would always remain central to the brand’s identity.
