How Jules Neale is celebrating Mother’s Day this year after split from AFL star Lachie Neale

This year’s lead up to Mother’s Day could not look more different for Jules Neale, four months on from the mother-of-two’s high profile public split from Brisbane Lions premiership player Lachie Neale.

Returning home to Perth in January to be with family after more than seven years in Queensland, Jules has adjusted to life as a single parent as she balances custody of her two children.

The couple’s kids, Piper, 4, and Freddie, 1, are regularly featured in individual social media updates from their mum and dad who have continued their lives on opposing sides of the country, suggesting the former couple manage somewhat of a dynamic custody arrangement.

Jules told the Herald Sun that this year’s date dedicated to mums, May 10, will not be like those before it.

“Mother’s Day this year is looking a little different,” she said.

“But my kids are my absolute world and literally the best thing that’s ever happened to me. They make every single day brighter and I don’t take a moment of it for granted.”

In a recent paid collaboration with Country Road celebrating motherhood, Jules and her tot Freddie could be seen embracing lovingly at a luxury estate to illustrate their bond.

Looking to repay the love to her own mother ahead of the special day, Jules’ return to WA has brought the pair closer in more ways than one.

“Mother’s Day has always meant so much to me and I’m excited to be able to celebrate with my own mum this year,’ she added.

“She’s been an incredible support over the last few months to me and the kids.

“We’re planning to have a big family lunch with my brothers, their partners and kids, so it will be a beautiful day spent together.”

While Jules and Lachie have attempted to remain publicly amicable as they co-parent, a recent Instagram post by the Brisbane Lions ahead of the dual Brownlow medallist’s 300th game drew criticism from the mother.

Piper had been staying with her dad ahead for his 300th game milestone, and was seen crying and burrowed in her dad’s arms as she escorted him onto the MCG ahead of the bounce.

Brisbane captioned the video “Our shy queen”, which Jules took issue with.

“She’s not shy. She’s scared and it’s not funny,’ the mother responded.

Lachie has spoken of Jules’ flexibility with allowing him to visit their kids in Perth as he chooses, with his footy club allowing the same access.

While yet to commit to where he’ll be playing beyond 2026, Lachie told Triple M radio he will weigh up the “pros and cons” of staying in Queensland, and returning to WA.

“For me, it comes down to family. Obviously my kids, love them to bits... Piper and Freddie,” he said.

“They’ll be top priority.”