MEET... KEEGAN WALKLIN

AT KINGS DOMAIN BARBERS By Louise May

Keegan Walklin’s journey into barbering started with a fascination for hair artistry and the transformative power of a great haircut. After spending nearly a decade in the fitness industry in roles like club management, sales, and eventually owning his own gym, he found his passion had faded, and he needed a change. Keegan wanted to work with his hands, to create something tangible.

He always loved keeping up with hair trends and chatting with his barber and his stepmum, who was conveniently a hairdresser/ barber back home in New Zealand. It all just made sense — barbering was his calling. The learning curve was steep, but the joy of seeing the immediate, positive impact of his work on clients made it all worthwhile. Every haircut is an opportunity to create, connect, and contribute to someone’s confidence.

Editor Louise May chats with Keegs about his journey, and being a puppy carer!

Tell us a little about you?

I am a dedicated barber at Kings Domain Barber Shop with a passion for creativity, precision, and building connections through my craft. I take pride in delivering high-quality services while staying ahead of industry trends to ensure every client leaves feeling confident and refreshed. My journey into barbering has been fuelled by a love for learning, a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, and the desire to create memorable experiences for my clients. Outside of the barbershop, I am a devoted puppy carer, American BBQ and country music lover, and black coffee and Guinness drinker.

Who inspires you both personally & professionally?

Many people have influenced my work, but two stand out. First, Lyndal Salmon, Biba Academy Creative Director and 2023 Australian Hairdresser of the Year. Lyndal’s passion and knowledge are unmatched, and she taught me the importance of being intentional — every section, every blow-dry movement matters. The lesson of being present and deliberate in every action has profoundly impacted my work.

The other is Peter Gosling of Glassbox Barbershop in Canada, whose work is bridging the gap between barbers and hair stylists. Their dedication and innovative approaches continually push me to improve. My family has also always been a source of inspiration demonstrating a strong work ethic and the importance of commitment, consistency, and genuine care for others. I also take a lot of inspiration from my team at Kings Domain Barber Shop - we all come from different walks of life, and it is great to be able to share and learn from my peers in a challenging yet rewarding Team.

What do you love most about what you do?

What I love most is seeing my clients light up with confidence after a cut. We have a saying at home: “Look good, feel good.” A great haircut can change someone’s entire week or even month, and knowing I contribute to that positive change is deeply rewarding. I thrive on the relationships I build in the barbershop, hearing clients’ stories, sharing laughs, and being part of their lives beyond the haircut. The creative freedom to experiment with styles and techniques adds another layer of excitement to my work.

What does barbering mean to you, what do you love most about it?

Barbering is more than a job; it’s a craft rooted in creativity, precision, and community. It’s about providing a safe, welcoming space where clients can offload their worries or share their successes. Anyone can cut hair, but building trust and genuine relationships is what makes a great barber. I see barbering as an evolving art form — one that requires technical skill, artistic vision, and the ability to understand and connect with clients on a personal level. The barbershop is a community hub, a place where friendships are forged, and self-esteem is restored.

You are an ambassador for JRL, can you tell us about this?

Being named a JRL ambassador was a dream come true. I worked tirelessly on social media to engage with the JRL and Hairco teams, and when the opportunity came, I was over the moon. JRL is a leader in innovation, known for tools that are quiet, efficient, and high performing. I feel privileged to represent a brand that genuinely values feedback from professionals to improve its products.

As an ambassador, I get to test new tools, provide insights, and share my experiences with the wider barbering community. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a company that prioritises quality, innovation, and the practical needs of barbers.

What are your go-to products for styling?

Currently, I love ‘Kings Domain Melbourne - Thickening Treatment Spray,’ which I use as a blow-dry assist and volumizer. This product is fantastic for adding body and texture without weighing the hair down. Another favourite is ‘Solid State Fat Wax,’ which provides great hold and, when finger-styled, creates amazing separation.

I appreciate how versatile this wax is — perfect for textured, messy looks as well as more polished styles. High-quality products are essential for delivering consistent, long-lasting results, and these two never let me down.

Tell us about being a Puppy Carer!

Becoming a puppy carer wasn’t my idea but I don’t regret it. One morning, my partner Laura said, “Please don’t be mad, but I signed us up as carers for Seeing Eye Dogs Australia.” I was thrilled! We love the dogs — they’re so intelligent and gentle but a bit crazy, like us. Our first puppy, Yousef, had us on an emotional rollercoaster, but when he graduated and was placed with a client in Queensland, we were incredibly proud.

The experience has taught me patience, compassion, and the joy of contributing to a cause that changes lives. Watching these pups grow, learn, and eventually support someone with vision impairment is truly heartwarming.

Any future news you would like to share?

I’m currently working on a few creative hair collections for awards and showcases. I’m also looking toward shop management and, eventually, ownership. I’d also love the opportunity to connect with more highprofile clients — I recently had the pleasure of looking after US country music artist Jordan Davis on his world tour with Luke Combs. My barber journey is ongoing and forever changing, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. Barbering has given me so much, and I’m eager to give back to the community that has supported my growth.

@k.w.barber