Hooper was just a teenager when Killing Heidi reached fame with hits like “Weir”, “I am” and “Mascara” – songs that would ultimately make her cringe later in life.

Despite their huge success during the late 1990s and early 2000s plus multiple awards, they decided to call it quits in 2006.

“There was a lot of things about Killing Heidi for the next 10 years after that I wanted to change; but learning to accept all that and realising it was part of a package that worked, I’m a lot more relaxed about it,” she said.

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For years the idea of reuniting was tossed around but Hooper always dismissed it, saying it would never happen.

Now she’s eating her words and admits she shouldn’t make “big, brash statements” as it no longer seems like a bad idea.

“It’s just the time, the sheer force of the years that have made me grow up and mature,” Hooper said.

“All of a sudden [reuniting the band] didn’t sound like a horrible idea, it sounded like fun.”

Hooper and her brother Jesse are back on the road with original drummer Adam Pedretti, as well as new keyboard player Clio Renner and bassist James Gilligan.

The now 34-year-old still has a giggle at some of the lyrics from her early career but is at peace with who she was, calling it an amazing journey.

“I know it sounds kind of mushy but it really has been a sort of healing, coming full circle sort of experience to go back on and touch on what I did as a a young woman,” she said.

“I feel like I’m such a stronger performer now so it’s really nice to go and revisit it and give it everything it deserves.”

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The last decade Hooper has embarked on solo projects, performed in another band with her brother – The Verses, has forged a name as a TV and radio presenter, and has worked as a mentor to musicians just getting started in the industry.

The year ahead looks to be filled with summer festival slots as well as the headline tour dates plus another solo album for Hooper.

There’s even a television show she’s currently developing though the contents are top secret, except she said it’s unlike anything she’s ever done before.

But for the moment, the focus is on revisiting the mosh pit with Killing Heidi and stirring memories from people’s youth.

The two shows Hooper was looking forward to the most were Wollongong and Newcastle, both cities with an abundance of musical friends.

“I’ve got so many mates there and we’ve got all these special little treats lined up for those shows,” she said, “a couple of special guests and some funny songs.”

Killing Heidi play Waves in Towradgi, Friday October 6. Tickets via www.moshtix.com.au