Billionaire hospitality magnate Justin Hemmes and his partner, model Madeline Holtznagel, were recently observed riding an electric bicycle in Byron Bay with their one-year-old son, Jaeger, without wearing helmets. The incident occurred on a Friday, with the couple seen navigating local streets and a beach.

E-Biking Safety and Legal Requirements

The outing highlighted a lapse in adherence to helmet regulations, particularly pertinent in New South Wales, where e-bike riders are legally mandated to wear protective headgear. Failure to comply with this law can result in an immediate on-the-spot fine of $344. Despite the legal stipulations and the widely acknowledged risks associated with riding without a helmet, Hemmes, 53, and Holtznagel appeared relaxed and joyful during their excursion. Hemmes, the proprietor of the Merivale Group, recently acquired a beachfront property in Byron Bay valued at $18 million.

During the ride, Holtznagel was positioned at the front of the e-bike, holding their young son, Jaeger, in her arms, while Hemmes sat behind her. The family appeared to be enjoying the sunny winter weather, sharing smiles and laughter.

Family Outing and Public Appearances

Following their e-bike ride, the family was seen stopping at a beachfront cafe for coffee. Holtznagel was dressed in a stylish beige-and-white tracksuit set, complemented by sunglasses and her hair styled in a chignon. Her accessories included a brown leather handbag and black-and-white sandals. Hemmes opted for a more casual ensemble, wearing a black jumper and grey chinos. Young Jaeger was dressed warmly in a navy fleece jacket, beige trousers, and a blue beanie.

Hemmes and Holtznagel, who have been a couple since 2019, generally maintain a private approach to their family life, making only occasional appearances at select public events. Holtznagel announced the birth of their son, Jaeger, on Instagram in June 2025, sharing a series of photographs. She had previously expressed her anticipation for motherhood, telling Stellar magazine that she felt destined to be a boy’s mother and was looking forward to a “new journey” with Hemmes.

Holtznagel noted that while she values her privacy, she decided to share some moments of her pregnancy journey, particularly as she reached a stage where she felt comfortable doing so. She mentioned that she had intentionally kept her pregnancy off social media for a period, enjoying the quiet time away from public platforms.

Family Context and Siblings

Holtznagel is the sister of fellow Australian model Simone Holtznagel. Simone welcomed her own daughter, Gia, in March 2024 with her former partner, Jono Castano.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to road safety regulations, especially for vulnerable road users like those on e-bikes, and the legal obligations surrounding helmet use in public spaces.