Byron Life Magazine

FREE

Oct/Nov 2017

Meet

Annick & Claire

14 Page

from ENZO & TOTO

Nostalgic Feature

THE SOCIAL FLY

The Secret Life of a Barista Byron Bay Guitar Festival

Surf Salt & Sand

COMMUNITY UNITY Giving Youth a Voice with Tony Barry

Meet our local surfing heroes

Future Dreamers Girls Club

Media Partner BRUNSWICK HEADS • MULLUMBIMBY • BYRON BAY • OCEAN SHORES • BANGALOW • LENNOX HEAD

3-7 SHIRLEY STREET, BYRON BAY • A unique and exciting proposition for the savvy buyer!

• Prime position with beach access metres away • 2 minute walk to Byron’s town centre, restaurants and shops • 2250m2 with DA approval for a 16 room boutique hotel • Potential to develop into units, townhouses or a house • Holding income from 3 cottages of $200,000+ per annum

25/33-35 CHILDE STREET, BYRON BAY • Directly opposite Belongil Beach, close to all amenities • Freshly updated with new furniture • Light filled north facing aspect, private courtyard • Large lagoon style pool in complex and heated spa • Highly sought after location, close to everything yet serene • The perfect holiday investment

35 Fletcher Street Byron Bay 2481 | call 6685 8466 sales@byronbayfn.com | byronbayfn.com.au

5

| 3

| 2

rare development opportunity Open:

By Appointment Price: $6,000,000 - $6,600,000 Enquiries: Paul Banister 0438 856 552 James Young 6685 8466

2

| 2

| 1

luxury beachside investment Open:

By Appointment Price: Contact Agent Enquiries: James Young 6685 8466 Luke Elwin 0421 375 635

256 MIDGEN FLAT ROAD, NEWRYBAR • Pristine 100 acre farm • Beautifully restored main home plus cottage • Expansive decking, huge machinery shed • 2 dams, permanent spring fed creek, good fencing • Situated so close to the stunning beaches of Broken Head • Easy fully sealed access to Byron Bay and Bangalow

LA VISTA - 13 CAPE VISTA DRIVE, EWINGSDALE • Set on a peaceful, elevated and level plateau of 5935m2 • Private and exclusive with a country estate feel • Uninterrupted views to Cape Byron Lighthouse and the ocean • 5 freestanding luxurious villas + a spacious 3 bedroom residence • An established business with solid and growing returns • Perfect for health, yoga or lifestyle retreat

35 Fletcher Street Byron Bay 2481 | call 6685 8466 sales@byronbayfn.com | byronbayfn.com.au

8

| 6

| 6

idyllic acreage in premier location Open:

By Appointment Price: $3,550,000 Enquiries: James Young or Helen Huntly-Barratt 6685 8466

8

| 7

| 7

luxurious country estate - b&b plus home Open:

By Appointment Price: Contact Agent Enquiries: Su Reynolds 0428 888 660

POOL SHOP FOR ALL YOUR SWIMMING NEEDS + WATER TESTING We are the Northern Rivers swimming pool, spa and landscaping specialists providing professional pool installation, pool servicing & repairs.

With a combined 40 years' experience in the pool and landscaping industry, we can see each project through from the design process through to the installation and landscaping.

No job is too big or too small.

Pool’s and Spa’s

Maintenance and Repairs

Pool Products and Equipment

Landscaping Services

1/3 Acacia street, Byron bay (02) 6685 8933 e: profile@westnet.com.au | w: profilepools.com.au

The Life Of Byron Collection Australian Owned and Designed Bikinis. Inspired by the Unique. w w w. t h e l i f e o f b y r o n c o l l e c t i o n . c o m

contents

pg 11

pg 15

pg 28

pg 54

pg 16-17

pg 61

10 COMMUNITY UNITY

22 THEN AND NOW FEATURE

MIND, BODY & SOUL

10 LEANNE FROM BUNDJALUNG

26 THE ARTS FACTORY

45 HOROSCOPES

11 FUTURE DREAMERS, EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN

28 SHIRLEY NIELSON

46 THE HEALTH LODGE

31 THE OFFICE ACCOUNTANTS

49 BANGALOW LASER

32 EDEN AT BYRON

50 THE MAKEOVER BY BYRON BEAUTY BAR

52 BAMBOO YOGA

12 GIVING YOUTH A VOICE WITH TONY BARRY

14 CELEBRATING OUR LOCAL SES

15 HEALING WITH HORSES

16 PERSONALITIES IN BUSINESS

16 COVER STORY WITH ENZO & TOTO

18 PAUL FROM FIRST NATIONAL

19 DONNA FROM MULLUMBIMBY HIGH SCHOOL

20 JULIE-ANN FROM RAINE & HORNE

HOME, PROPERTY & GARDEN

38 RAY WHITE BUSINESS PROFILE

40 ELDERS ‘MEET THE AGENT’

42 CASE 22

SURF, SALT & SAND

53 CRAIG ‘WARTO’ WARTON

54 MARIA NIELSON

56 JOEL PAXTON

57 WAPU FROM MOJO SURF

CORE PUBLISHING AND EVENTS PTY LTD p: 07 4945 4429 m: 0429 035 046 Editor in Chief: Rebecca Douthwaite / bec@byronlifemag.com / 0409 577 282 Managing Editor: Nik Torti / nik@byronlifemag.com / 0429 035 046 General Manager: Rachael Thackray / rachael@byronlifemag.com / 0417 267 373 Production: Rebecca Douthwaite / Marc Tarnate / Lydia Wilson / Norina Jane Accounts Manager: Christine Forest Writers: Amanda Wright / Nik Torti / Rachael Thackray / Ian Browne / Danny Salfield Photography: Raegan Glazner RG PHOTO INC./ 0474 272 388 / raeganglaznerphotoinc.com Hair and Make-up: Byron Beauty Bar / 02 6680 8886 Cover Hair and Make-up: Sulis Lifestyle.Salon.Spa / sulisbyron.com.au / 02 6680 8801

pg 42

pg 52 THE SOCIAL FLY

59 MEET THE CHEF AT SUN BISTRO

61 MEET THE BARTENDER AT MEZ CLUB

62 MEET THE CHEF AT FOXY LUU’S

65 MULLUM MUSIC FESTIVAL

67 BYRON FILM FESTIVAL

69 BYRON GUITAR FESTIVAL

02 6680 8801 1/15-19 Fletcher Street sulisbyron.com.au   sulisbyron

From the

editor I

would like to start by showing some seriously deserved gratitude and appreciation to all of the beautiful members of the community that helped bring together the information and create the content for this issue. It was an absolute pleasure and I feel extremely honoured to have met such amazing pillars of our community.

A couple of individuals in particular are Shirley Nielson and Ginny Black. Thank you so much ladies, I am forever in your debt. I had the most incredible time getting to know these lovely ladies who each helped paint a remarkably clear picture of the region, then and now.

I would also like to give a special shout out to Katie Elliot who is the genius behind Wild Goat Events. My wife and I had the privilege of enjoying a Wild Goat Events ‘Toast to the Sun’ Lighthouse experience last month and it was one of the most memorable mornings of our lives.

I have to admit that when I first organised to meet with Katie to talk about Wild Goat Events featuring in the magazine all I could think about on the way to the meeting was that Wild Goat Events must be some kind of a ‘Byron’ spin on bird watching which entailed me go to goat watching.

I could not have been more wrong!

As many of us know, there is a mythically induced fairy tale attached to the most easterly point of Australia, a place where the wild goats once called the Watego’s area home.

I have even heard from a couple of the kids in the

region that there is still one goat left. They believe it is a combination of wild goat and mystical unicorn.

Perhaps this could be our new Byron Bay mascot!?

Whether it is the spirit of the famous Wategoat or a rumour created by some imaginative kids, a Wild Goat ‘Toast to the Sun’ experience is something I would recommend to all of you.

Imagine sneaking down to the cliff tops at sunrise and there spread out before you is a picnic hamper containing delicious goods, a comfy blanket and beyond, the true majesty of nature spread in front of you. A rare opportunity to be among the first people on the most Easterly point of Australia to watch the sun rise over the ocean that day. Magic!

Wild Goat Events tailor your morning Toast to the Sun experience to your every desire for an intimate couples or group booking.

Be sure to check out the website for more details: www.wildgoatevents.co

Keep living, loving and enjoy Byron Life.

Nik

Contact Us: Managing Editor Nik Torti 0429 035 046 nik@byronlifemag.com

Editorial editor@byronlifemag.com

Sales sales@byronlifemag.com

Design & Production design@byronlifemag.com

Accounts accounts@byronlifemag.com

Publishers Indemnity. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to BYRON Life Magazine, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes. Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements. All material is correct at time of printing and is copyright of CORE Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.

8 www.byronlifemag.com

YOU DON’T PAY ME...

THE LENDER DOES. 6 MONTHS UNLIMITED BAMBOO YOGA SCHOOL PASS • Full access to the services and teachers of the Bamboo Yoga School.

• With a delightful mix of teaching innovation and classical yoga wisdom we offer vinyasa flow, Hatha, yin, Kundalini, meditation and yoga nidra

VALUED AT $700 10 X MUSIC LESSONS FROM BYRON MUSIC SCHOOL •Have you ever wanted to learn a new instrument?

•Or maybe you want to fine tune your existing skills?

VALUED AT $350 JOIN THE CIRCUS REVOLUTION $500 worth of amazing classes and activities at Circus Arts Byron Bay • Flying Trapeze for 2 people • 3 months Rock Climbing & Gym for 2 people • Playspace visit • 6 week course of your choice - COURSES AVAILABLE Adult Handstands & Acrobatics, Adult Trampoline or Adult Aerials

YOU GOTTA BE IN IT TO WIN IT! enter online now at www.byronlifemag.com Winner Drawn 30th November 2017 terms and conditions apply

LIKE BYRON ON FACEBOOK TO SEE IF YOU’RE A WINNER

Janice Ryan Mortgage Broker

Diploma of Financial Services

30+YEARS LENDING EXPERIENCE

e: janice@wpff.com.au SPECIALISING IN COMMERCIAL FIT OUTS RESTAURANTS | BARS | CAFES | OFFICES | RETAIL

FOR A FREE QUOTE CALL 0410255881 jskfitout.com

m: 0400 364 723 www.wpff.com.au Australian Credit Licence 437115 www.byronlifemag.com 9

COMMUNITYUNITY

I raised my children on Bundjalung country with Byron Shire Artist - Leanne Hamilton

B

eing an Indigenous Byron Shire resident can mean many things. While the Arakwal Bundjalung are the proud local custodians of this leafy paradise, many other Indigenous Australians have arrived to share their cultural identity, with a curious art loving community from all walks of life.

Leanne Hamilton is a local artist who explores not only the region’s natural themes within her paintings, but incorporates the exotic art techniques of Arnhem Land as well.

Story by Ian Browne

Leanne: My father is a Mara man from near Borroloola, NT, which is also my grandparent’s country. But dad was actually born on Groote Eylandt to the north, in Arnhem Land. One of my brothers lives in Darwin. I love Darwin; if I didn’t live here, I would live there. I have been to Beswick in the Top End, but not out to Borroloola. I want to go and see where my grandparents lived one day.

“I use my hair to paint with!”

My mum was born down in the Hawkesbury River region. On my mother’s side are the Bungaree, who live along the Marra Creek there. Mum is a Darug lady and has European ancestry also.

I raised my children on Bundjalung country. My youngest daughter Kahlia and I love the beach, the bush, and swimming in the creek. I have two sons and another daughter as well. My children get their passion for music from me. When we lived down in Sydney, my children were more in tune with my grandmother’s community. Being Indigenous has given us all an appreciation of other cultural issues too.

“I use my hair to paint with!”

I am an artist and my favourite style is Arnhem Land ‘Rarrk’, which includes the use of the cross-hatching stick-painting technique. I paint animals in Rarrk, many are totemic like the goanna. I had a dream about ‘earth and time’, the way time passes in our life, and how when people dig down into the earth the different layers are exposed. I don’t know where this dream came from, but I knew by painting the dream I wouldn’t have borrowed the idea from another artist. I painted two ‘Earth and Time’ canvases using my Rarrk cross-hatching colours, and one sold on the first night of a local art exhibition. My eldest daughter also loved this painting.

I like to paint traditional styles. I use my hair to paint with! I tie a knot in my hair, then I flatten some beeswax and wrap it around the hair knot, to the size of a grape. I then cut my hair to the length I desire, and I now have an excellent paint brush. I use this hair paint brush in my Rarrk Art painting. To this day it is still used as a medium in NE Arnhem Land on tree bark. I can use the brush with the same sized brush stroke throughout, or with the right amount of paint and pressure applied, I can vary the thickness and size of the pattern. I like watching anyone paint in any style. It relaxes me.

The Bundjalung Country Art Exhibition includes artists from the Bundjalung nation, and from different regions of Australia - who now live on Bundjalung country. As an amalgamation of artists, we support each other throughout.

We don’t get together to big-note our own achievements, but to share in ideas and to encourage one another. We respect each other’s interests and passions.

You can see the Arakwal Bundjalung influences on show with the depiction of marine life, such as dolphins, whales and ocean turtles. Along with my ‘Earth and Time’ art, some of the local animals I enjoy painting include pythons, goannas, echidnas and owls. My symbol the ‘water lily’ is always present.

10 www.byronlifemag.com

I like carrying on the tradition of my ancestors with my art. My eldest daughter has also begun to show an appreciation in her culture and intends to join an Indigenous dance troupe. As they grow from teenagers into young adults, a thirst builds for their own culture it seems. My work includes Indigenous themes; it’s all about our food source, our spirituality.

“It’s all about seeing the happiness in each other” We have been trying to get the young Indigenous community involved in the Bundjalung Country Art Exhibitions too. We want to build up their confidence, and provide them with a future economic prospect, while keeping their culture alive. I have seen some shy teenagers join us and I have watched them build in confidence. It’s all about seeing the happiness in each other.

If you would like to find out more about Leanne’s artwork or to purchase you can contact her via email on leaart67@gmail.com

Today’s dreamers are tomorrow’s achievers

T

COMMUNITYUNITY

hey laugh hard, admire individuality, embrace exploration and draw on their own experiences to help today’s dreamers achieve big. Their main mission is to empower young women to feel more confident, leading to living full and happy lives.

“Those steps will be the best ones you’ve ever made. The minute you walk into the club you are met with a warm welcome, a non-judgmental attitude and a genuine willingness to help you reach your full potential. We think girls are amazing and can achieve anything with the right support and guidance.”

They are the Future Dreamers, Byron Bay’s ultimate girls club, inspiring and empowering the next generation of women to climb higher. Founded and operated by a group of passionate women, this vibrant not-for-profit collective facilitate workshops, events and unique experiences for teen girls and young women in Byron and beyond.

While many Future Dreamers have achieved amazing success, a story dear to Leah’s heart is a shy young dreamer who unleashed her passion for photography.

One of the Future Dreamer’s founders, Leah Rettenmaier, explains how the concept was born.

“A collective of women came together with the energy, intention and passion of delivering a kick-ass, modern and relevant girls club. It was conceived from the thought of ‘be who you needed when you were younger’ and ‘create the space you craved when you were younger.’ We set out to create a club which girls can call their own, a place to be, to discover self, be inspired and motivated, make new friends and have some serious fun,” Leah said.

The group aims to accommodate girls and women aged from 12 to 25 years, but also present an opportunity for experienced women within the community to share their knowledge and expertise with the Future Dreamers. For girls who may be shy, Leah explains that the hardest part is making the decision to walk through the door.

“She joined our creative expression team and took some amazing photos of a Byron sunset. We were so blown away by her words and art that we uploaded her work onto our website in a blog. As a consequence it attracted a lot of attention and praise from her peers and the industry. It led to her participating in a high-end fashion shoot, which was her dream. To see her shine brightly with new-found confidence was a beautiful experience.”

Future Dreamers also hold popular Wild Warrior adventures, where girls can find confidence in outdoor activities. These unique and challenging trips have included climbing Mount Warning and floating on tyre tubes under the Killen Falls.

Located at 24 Marvell Street, the club house door is open, but needs community support to stay that way.

Whether it be financial, in-kind or volunteering, Future Dreamers need your help to keep the dream alive for the next generation of girls. If you can offer support, email info@futuredreamers.com.au to help the girls of tomorrow, begin their dreams today. www.byronlifemag.com 11

Young voices for the environment 12 www.byronlifemag.com

A

man, famous for a voice which we have grown to love over many years of film and television, is now encouraging our next generation to realise the potential and power of their own voice.

One of the most prolific actors of our time, Tony Barry has appeared in more than 100 feature films and television series in a career spanning four decades. But it is his tireless passion for helping and educating those in our community from all walks of life, which makes him one of Byron’s most humble hero’s.

For most of his life, when he hasn’t been acting, Tony has been working one-on-one with prison inmates struggling with drug and alcohol abuse, has taught drama to students across the country, has worked tirelessly with at-risk youths, has championed for the environment and has been influential in promotion of the arts.

His latest project is one which is starting here in the Northern Rivers, a Young Environmental Protectors High School Environmental Competition. This is an offer to High School Students, which presents them with an opportunity to creatively express their concerns and hopes for the future of their environment.

COMMUNITYUNITY

Tony said the vision behind this project is, “A world where future voters’ concerns will be taken into consideration by those who determine the environmental outcomes of our planet.”

Tony believes this competition will allow year 10 students to challenge inactivity where the future of their environment, and ours is at stake. It is hoped that this initiative will extend beyond the Northern Rivers to enlist the help and support of other schools throughout the state and nation to open up and engage in this conversation.

The prize money of three thousand dollars has been donated by Tony and his long time friend Ross Bishop, a Melbourne business man.

The monies will be allocated thus; $1,000 first prize, $1,000 second prize and $1,000 third prize, with the option available to the winners to either keep the money or in conversation with their school, invest it in an environmental program decided upon in that conversation which will bear their name at that school in perpetuity. It is hoped that the prizes and the concept will encourage vigorous participation from the six randomly chosen High Schools from across our region.

Entries are submitted via an art form of choice, from writing, poetry and dance to music, drawing, photography and more. It can be on any environmental topic of the student’s choosing, to encourage raw passion.

The event will be celebrated with a weekend in December at the Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall for presentations and judging.

Saturday 16th December Delivery and Set up • 10am to 4pm open to contestants.

Open to environmental groups for decoration.

Sunday 17th December Judging and Presentation Judging 10am to 1pm.

Presentation open to public 2pm to 5pm.

Holley Somerville-Knott, a local girl who is passionate about the world and its environment, is an inspiring patron for this event.

This is an opportunity for youth to influence environmental policy outcomes, and express a voice which can, and will, change the world we live in for generations to come.

JOIN THE CIRCUS REVOLUTION One of a kind indoor venue in Byron Bay that offers  High Flying Trapeze  Variety of kids & teen circus classes  School Holiday Programs  Variety of circus fitness classes for adults  Climbing Wall & Gym  Jump! & Parkour Classes  Circus classes for pre-schoolers  Playspace & Cafe  Circus shows & Venue hire  Team building & Group bookings 17 Centennial Cct, Arts & Ind Park Byron Bay

6685 6566

c i r c u s a r t s . c o m . a u

Comprehensive program of classes caters to all levels of skills, from beginners to advanced students

Volunteering Reimagined Storm season prompts volunteering call for Northern Rivers residents

W

ith the storm season underway, the NSW SES has unveiled new opportunities for Northern Rivers residents to volunteer to help build greater community resilience in severe weather.

The new initiative, ‘Volunteering Reimagined,’ has been launched and allows more flexibility as well as different options for people to get involved with the Service.

NSW SES Richmond Tweed Region, Acting Region Controller, Wayne Pettit, said this new program taps into the wide range of skills within the local community.

“The purpose of ‘Volunteering Reimagined’ is to broaden the capability of the NSW SES in the Northern Rivers and provide more opportunities for people to join us. More people are wanting to help their communities but often feel they can’t because they are time-poor or believe they do not have the physical capabilities to do some of the emergency tasks that the NSW SES often responds to,” Mr. Pettit said.

“As part of this new initiative we have introduced three new categories of volunteering in addition to our existing Unit members. These new categories of volunteers include Community Action Team (CAT) members, corporate volunteers and spontaneous volunteers,” Mr. Pettit said.

“CAT members will be a group of people or individuals who join a designated Community Action Team and can be tied to a geographical area or a specific functional role.

14 www.byronlifemag.com

“Spontaneous volunteers will be those individuals who provide assistance to the NSW SES in a temporary way, usually in response to large disasters, while corporate volunteers will be employees of companies that have partnered with our organisation and the employer will provide volunteer leave for their workers to contribute to the NSW SES,” Mr. Pettit explained.

“We’ve also made changes to our existing volunteer membership policies to allow greater flexibility in how these members volunteer their time with us.”

“So it doesn’t matter whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare each year, you can get involved with the NSW SES and you don’t necessarily have to be out in the elements battling Mother Nature,” he added. “Whether you’re doing those front line roles or providing assistance in a supporting role like managing logistics or finances, intelligence gathering, media liaison or community engagement, there is a place for you with the NSW SES.” “With the storm season upon us, there has never been a better time to volunteer with the NSW SES. Whatever your background, location and skill-set, there is a place for you to join us,” Mr. Pettit concluded.

For more information about volunteering with the NSW SES visit: www.ses.nsw.gov.au

COMMUNITYUNITY

The Spirit of the Horse byron equine

WHAT IS SPIRIT OF THE HORSE AUSTRALIA?

I first began my journey towards healing myself with horses a few years ago. I was at a crucial turning point in my life and found comfort in visiting a horse over the fence every sunrise. At the time I was spending a lot of time alone surfing and away from my inner being.

When I learnt about the training opportunity with Equine Assisted Learning, I knew this horse over the fence had shown me the way forward. I’ve been instinctively drawn to rescue horses, as they seem to me, like we are one tribe.

WHY WAS I DRAWN INTO EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING? Working with horses, has a powerful and creative way to heal our deepest wounds. As a survivor of domestic violence, I turned to horses to begin my own transformational work. Being with horses is a personal and unique commitment to a healing journey that only you can experience when fully present.

Horses are constantly aware and understand on a somatic, as well as an energy-vibration frequency level, how to be in contact with one another as a herd and interpret the feelings of people.

I remember one client arriving so flustered that Dante, the horse waiting to co-facilitate, decided to canter and buck in circles. Another client became so embodied and grounded during the treatment that the horses all closed their eyes to sleep, one (Dahlia) even lay down and began to snore.

My clients and friends who do not like being questioned or struggle with assertiveness, always draw attention from Blaze. He is one of my biggest horses, who will deliberately confront your boundary

weaknesses, although to the aware and present client, the same horse will stand motionless and allow gentle contact. It is amazing to watch how intuitive my horses are and how in-tune they can be with human emotion.

The model of Equine Assisted Learning I provide is focused and based around Gestalt psychotherapy principles and ideals. Gestalt, meaning “wholeness”, requires the practioner and client to relate into a relationship called i-thou. This is an attitude of relating when two people have an authentic meeting. They encounter each other as openly and non-defensively as they can in full awareness of their separateness and of their connection. This is instead of an i-it relating when we approach a person as an object or function.

WHY DO I WORK WITH RESCUE HORSES? I first began my healing journey with rescue horses, as I felt drawn to their energy. I find it fascinating that a very powerful animal was at some point vulnerable and has now become a beautiful and gracious creation of authentic energy that is able to connect with its herd and reach out to humans.

The rescue horses provide me with an energy, a psychological tool and a healing modality which incorporates a natural and pure will of existence and desire to live.

My rescue horses have shown me an alternative way of being. Even those who have had a life of the hardest knocks can still recover and go on to achieve their personal goals.

by Stephanie Rouillon

Annick and Claire ENZO & TOTO

16 www.byronlifemag.com

Earthy, feminine, effortless, risk-taker, fun.

E

veryone has their own individual style which should be embraced and celebrated. While clothes don’t define the wearer, they do give a telling insight into their personality.

The threads we wear are an expression of our inner being, a connection between mind and body, a silent statement.

And yet, although people crave unique, well-curated, thoughtful pieces of fashion, the industry is in danger of providing mass-produced, poor quality garments in an effort to be the cheapest on the market.

Local fashion house, Enzo and Toto, is swimming against the tide in an effort to re-define the way we think about what we wear. Instead of opting for five pieces of fashion which may last for five weeks, wouldn’t we prefer one wardrobe staple which becomes a favourite for five years, or more?

Owner, Annick Muylle, talks about mindfulness in fashion for authenticity and longevity.

“Effortless style and comfort should be a top priority in choosing what we wear. Love what is in your wardrobe and this will translate into confidence,” she said.

Growing up in Belgium, Annick worked in a high-pressure corporate position for many years before making the lifechanging move to backpack across the world. She never considered herself to be a shop-a-holic, in fact when it came to choosing her corporate wardrobe, Annick had a knack for getting in and out of a shop in record time, while choosing timeless pieces which would stay in her repertoire for years to come.

“It was definitely a risk. Back then, the thought that high-end fashion would sell in a town where casual fisherman pants and surf apparel was the norm was a far-flung idea, but the shop has grown organically and Byron itself is now garnishing a reputation as the place in Australia to shop.

Enzo and Toto was formed in 2005, from this concept, where people could find unique brands together under one roof, where it was possible to do an annual shop for fashion without needing to traipse from shop to shop searching for inspiration.

“Fashion savvy women travel from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne to shop here, because of the diverse labels which have evolved from the spirit which is Byron Bay. It’s exciting to be a part of that. Here at Enzo and Toto, we have exclusive labels from Italy which you won’t find anywhere else in Australia. I have more than 50 different suppliers, and it’s certainly not an economical way to do business, but it means I can deliver a fashion experience unlike any other,” Annick said.

A few years after opening, Claire joined Enzo and Toto, progressing quickly to store manager. The Byron local plays a big part in curating Enzo and Toto’s style, with Annick commenting that they have formed a close and respectful business relationship.

“I already knew Claire from when she worked at a local juice bar before working for me at Enzo and Toto. She’s one of the most determined and dedicated people I know. She will be at bootcamp at five in the morning before coming to work, where she puts as much love and passion into the business as I do. She’s fantastic with the customers, many of our regulars will ask for her specifically as they value her style and advice.

“I am a huge believer of horizontal structure where we work as a team and each one brings in their own strength and skills. She has put her stamp on the Enzo and Toto brand with her strong skills in merchandising and styling,” Annick said.

Although you can purchase items from Enzo and Toto online, Annick has focused the business toward an authentic and personal shopping experience here in Byron, where friendly service and a welcoming environment is a top priority, with no pressure to buy.

“The experience we deliver is as unique as our fashion. Some clients may come in for a chat and leave two hours later with a scarf, or even nothing at all, and that’s perfectly fine. Others may spend 10 minutes in store and walk out with their annual wardrobe. We style, offer advice or alternatively leave people to browse for as long as they like. We believe that we are able to keep the mortar and brick experience alive for many more years.”

Hugo her much-loved dog is Enzo and Toto’s mascot, “His colours and personality match the Enzo and Toto style,” Annick laughed.

Walks along the beach and yoga help Annick to recharge daily while allowing her to take in the beautiful blue hues of Byron which she fell in love with as a backpacker many years ago.

“I still pinch myself when I look at the ocean, feeling very lucky to live somewhere so beautiful.

My daughter and I love to travel, but Byron Bay is home. We are blessed.” www.byronlifemag.com 17

Paul Banister FIRST NATIONAL BYRON BAY

O

ne of Paul Banister’s first memories is his Dad pushing him onto his first wave at The Pass in the mid 1960’s when he was a young boy.

It is this connection with nature, the feeling of being close to the surf and the outdoors lifestyle he remembers from this experience as a boy that drew Paul back to the area to live years later with his own young family.

25 years ago when Paul’s daughter Kelsey was just three months old, he and his wife Sandy packed their bags and left their home in Cronulla, Sydney. Swapping the big city smoke for the rolling hills and fresh air of Byron was an easy decision for the family and they had their son, Wez ‘a true born Byron local’ a year later.

When the family first arrived they lived in Bangalow before moving to ‘the Bay’ in 2001 when Paul took a position at First National. Seven years later, Paul became Business Partner/Director of First National as well as an active Licensed Selling Real Estate Agent.

As a Real Estate Agent Paul prides himself on understanding the local community, working with and respecting the natural beauty as well as our unique local culture. He makes sales personal and loves matching people with their perfect home, even adding his own style of music to create the perfect ambience when selling a house.

18 www.byronlifemag.com

“Playing Blues and Reggae music at my Open Homes is a bit different but it makes it a happy experience and people love it!” he said.

When he’s not selling beautiful homes in the region, Paul can be found outdoors enjoying nature.

“I love anything to do with water, either in it, on it or near it! That’s why I love living in Byron Bay” said Paul.

On his days off you will find him fishing, surfing or swimming at some of his favourite places like Flatrock at the Three Sisters, Broken Head or Grassy Knoll at Snapper between Brays and Whites Beach.

If you are looking for an adventurous challenge Paul recommends you grab a mountain bike and ride to Brunswick Heads from the Bay on low tide and just listen to the sounds and view the scenery. He promises it will be magic!

Paul is also a community-orientated man and loved getting involved with his kid’s sporting groups when they were younger. These days he still plays competitive Water Polo with a close group of mates.

So, if you are looking to buy or sell your home, enjoy the personal approach and expert advice from Paul who truly knows, respects and loves our beautiful region.

Donna Pearson MULLUMBIMBY HIGH

W

hen Donna Pearson taught her first lesson at Mullumbimby High School as a student teacher over 35 years ago, she did not expect to return as Principal one day.

“It was like coming full circle” said Donna, “and now that I have been a part of this school and this community, I cannot imagine ever working or living anywhere else. Mullum High is my dream school.”

Originally from Tamworth, Donna, spent 19 years as an English/History Teacher and Head Teacher History at Tamworth High while raising her young children who all went to the public schools. When her youngest son graduated they made the move to the Northern Rivers looking forward to a well-earnt seachange.

It didn’t take long for Donna to feel at home in our beautiful region, enjoying the diverse cultural offerings as well as the surrounding natural beauty.

Whether she’s spending time with family, catching up with her friends to talk books at a local cafe or attending one of her favourite local festivals, Donna manages to achieve a busy but fulfilling work-life balance.

“Principals don’t really have hobbies or weekends,” jokes Donna, “but when I manage to steal some time for myself, I enjoy nothing more than getting the paper early on a weekend morning and having a chai with my partner at Table View café in Brunswick Heads, then going for a walk out on the wall.”

“I also love dropping into the Yelgun truck stop early of a morning on my way to work to have a chai at Dave’s Bean Van. You meet such an interesting group of people there and it is a really relaxing way to start my day.”

At work, Donna is a passionate, dedicated principal who believes in teaching the whole child, focusing on their future career path and individual skills as well as how they interact as people.

“I would like every child to leave our school with a love of learning, the confidence and expertise needed in the areas they want to pursue further as a career and personal skills such as an awareness of their place in the wider diverse community and an ability to contribute to that.”

Donna also believes that every student deserves a quality education and the opportunity to discover their unique skills.

“I love the thrill of seeing young people discovering what they are good at, what they like doing and giving them opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Every day is different in my job and every day I am amazed at what the students and staff achieve.”

After 35 years, Donna has found her place once again at Mullum High, living in an area she loves and supporting countless students in their pathway to adulthood. www.byronlifemag.com 19

Julie-Ann Manahan

F

RAINE & HORNE OCEAN SHORES AND BRUNSWICK HEADS

rom the moment Julie-Ann was old enough to imagine a career for herself, she knew she wanted to work in Real Estate. During her school years she worked for a local Real Estate agency every Sunday and as soon as she graduated she began working for a solicitor. From here it wasn’t long before she migrated towards property once again, heading-up the their conveyancing department.

“When you are a client you become part of our family and get to know the entire team” said Julie-Ann.

While working at the law firm Julie-Ann spent her evenings and weekends studying for her Real Estate Diploma, which at the time took four years. As soon as she became qualified she found her home working in Real Estate once again and has since enjoyed a hugely successful career in property, spanning almost thirty years.

Julie-Ann is a vibrant character, refreshingly honest and authentic, preferring not to ‘sugar coat’ things, but rather provide the facts so that clients can make informed decisions.

In 2014, Julie-Anne moved to the Northern Rivers with her husband, Charlie. It wasn’t long before she opened Raine & Horne in Ocean Shores, servicing Ballina to Tweed and everywhere in-between.

“I love helping my clients achieve their property dreams, it doesn’t matter how big or how small. It is so rewarding. I also have a large number of clients that have since become friends for life and now I’m helping their children buy their first home. It’s pretty hard to top that” said Julie-Ann. A true professional, Julie-Ann believes that total transparency is paramount and is willing to help her clients on all levels; buying, selling, leasing, asset growth and much more.

16 www.byronlifemag.com

Her many happy clients say they are drawn to her professionalism, her incredible motivation and her commitment to going above and beyond on their behalf.

In her spare time Julie-Ann loves looking at property, architecture and exciting new developments around the area. She is also a huge foodie and enjoys tasting local cuisine whenever she gets the chance.

Passionate about the beautiful Northern Rivers region, Julie-Ann is a big supporter of local events and community causes.

As a businesswoman, Julie-Ann is a professional with a positive and open approach. She is dedicated to achieving fantastic results on her customer’s behalf and loves working with families and individuals throughout the community

S

Damian Hopkins

tudy, work, children… life. All too often it’s in our nature to prioritise everything above our own health and wellbeing, however it’s true what they say, the best project you’ll ever work on is you.

Personal Trainer, Damian Hopkins, commented that even the fittest among us can lose sight of our own wellbeing. He was a fit teenager, played a lot of sport and then lifted weights into his early 20’s, but when he studied Information Technology (I.T) at TAFE, it was his health which took a back seat.

“I played rugby union but as I got further into my study, the rugby got less and less. To the point where I had completely neglected my fitness. I went from a lean 75kg to an unfit 90kg. Life happened, I married the love of my life in 2001, and we moved from Dubbo to Perth. I drank too much, started smoking again and worked retail for seven years.

STEP INTO LIFE

“My lightbulb moment came when I saw a photo of myself with my shirt off and I knew I needed to do something for my health. It was now or never. I taught myself how to run again, cycled and worked out as we travelled. My go-to exercise was skipping, sometimes I’d skip for an hour at a time. It took about a year to lose the 20kg I had packed on, but I had fought my way back to fitness and stopped smoking,” Damian said.

Damian and his family moved to Brunswick Heads. He became a personal trainer after completing study in Brisbane and started as a one-on-one instructor in Burleigh Heads for 12 months, before purchasing the Step into Life franchise.

“Our group personal training sessions encourage people from all walks of life to get off the couch and regain their fitness. Our youngest member is 15 and our oldest is 70! We really are for everyone. We offer a number of structured classes throughout the week, focusing on cardio, resistance and “My wife, Amy, and I then needed a change, so we sold the house and bought kick-boxing. It’s a supportive and fun way to keep motivated,” Damian said. a caravan and 4WD. Our children, Zac and Lili, were 10 and 5 at the time. We home schooled them for 14 months and travelled Australia.

From barely being able to jog the length of the rugby field, Damian built his running ability up year after year. He’s now completed numerous fun runs as well as two half-marathons and four full marathons. His methodology is proving to be a success for his clients as well.

“I started training a gentleman who couldn’t run 100 metres. We started slow, but he was motivated and is now completing his third marathon this year in New York. It’s being able to change people’s lives which has made this journey so incredible,” he said.

Damian is also a volunteer lifesaver with the Brunswick Surf Life Saving Club and has organised the Byron2Bruns Beach Run for the past seven years.

With exciting developments in the pipeline for his personal training clients, including an online fitness platform and challenging obstacle course, Damian is excited about training the next generation of people wanting to better themselves.

Make your next project about you, there’s no better time to start than now and no worthier cause than your own health.

www.byronlifemag.com 17

FROM INDUSTRY TO INGENUITY, THE CHANGING FACE OF BYRON BAY. THE THINGS IN LIFE WE CAN’T CHANGE ARE OFTEN WHAT END UP CHANGING US. Since the 1960’s, Byron Bay and the wider region has experienced extreme changes to its economy and primary sources of wealth generation like no other area in Australia. While the nation has seen similar movement from primary industry to niche enterprise, it would be hard to find another town which has experienced a complete about-face to the same extent as Byron Bay, and even harder to find one which has done so as successfully.

It’s hard to imagine now, but Byron Bay was once the biggest industrial town in New South Wales, north of Newcastle. It started with timber and butter, Norco was the biggest butter factory in the southern hemisphere until 1972.

Our most famous landmark, the lighthouse, was built in 1901, and the railway was developed between Lismore and Murwillumbah, which allowed industry to really boom. But over time, one by one, large industry shut down. When the Walkers piggery slaughterhouse closed in 1983, most locals thought this would bring the end of Byron Bay. As we look back now, we can see this was just the beginning.

Main beach, which was once awash with abattoir blood and stank from the carcasses of rotting whales, is now one of the most idyllic and iconic surf locations in the world. Soul surfers and peaceloving hippies moved in over the 1960’s and 1970’s, opening the creative doorway for musicians, artists and alternative thinkers to transform the coastal communities and rolling hinterland into a destination for mindfulness and meditation.

The vibe is like no other, anywhere on Earth, and this is why tourism is now Byron Bay’s largest enterprise. This has opened the doorway for unique boutique opportunities to thrive, such as the story of Enzo and Toto, who are bringing trendy fashion seekers from the city to Byron.

We have seen real estate companies grow who have adapted their businesses to become large local employers. The Arts Factory Lodge has become one of the most iconic backpackers worldwide and embodies the heart and soul of what Byron Bay has become.

This month, Byron Life Magazine has taken a nostalgic look back on some of the local businesses who have stood the test of time, moulding the shape and face of the communities we love. We have also featured some of the personalities who have played a big part in how Byron has evolved over the years, to hear their thoughts on the way the region has changed.

While the demise of primary industry undoubtedly hurt many families who relied on the employment it once provided, it has paved the way for a new wave of ingenuity, provided a platform for boutique business to succeed and allowed hospitality and tourism to thrive. Environmentally conscious and societally mindful enterprises such as Flow Hive, Painted Earth and Eden at Byron are changing the way we think about how and what we consume and use on a daily basis.

www.byronlifemag.com 22 22 www.byronlifemag.com

Byron Bay is revolutionary, radical and ready for business. It is with gratitude and respect we pay homage to the businesses and people who have cultivated Byron Bay into the town we are blessed to call home.

THEN&NOW

the sandpit

Who remembers the Rib Cage?

I’ve been bouncing around in this beautiful, beatnik bubble for most of my life and looking back on the ‘good old days’ is a little guilty pleasure of mine.

Some of my clearest memories growing up are firmly attached to people and places that no longer exist in the Byron Shire of today.

T

here is no plaque on a memorial of fallen Byron businesses, the Dic’s Diners, Farmer Smith’s Chicks, Bay Burgers, Suppertime Blues, Ringos Cafe, The Rib Cage, Sweets and Treats, Sky Surfboards, The Car Park Night Club, The Piggery (where the very first Blues Fest was held) or the many more names, that evoke in those of us that grew up here, memories of our youth and of a Byron that no longer exists. For those who were weened in Lennox, Bruns or Mullum you will have your own nostalgic memory map to revisit in times of confusion as the facades of your community is reshaped, reimagined and reborn.

Businesses after all, are much more than bricks and mortar and reflect more than profit and loss on there balance sheets. A business can and should form a direct link to our own life stories. For example, who reading this took their first date to the old Earth and Sea Pizzeria when it was next to, what was back then, Bay Action and shared a Mullum Madness and a Coke Spider. More importantly who remembers what a Coke Spider even was?

(Coke in a milkshake glass, topped with ice cream and decorated with a plastic monkey or mermaid).

When I spoke to Cath Gell in this issue on the last day of trading for Macs Diner, a business that started over fifty years ago and was the last of its generation of takeaways, I felt a little like I was closing a window to my youth. I had always taken for granted I could pull up after a surf on my way back in town and one of the Gells would automatically place my order before I could even open my mouth,. We would talk about the surf, or more importantly what the surf was like ten years ago.

As much as I love much of the ‘new’ that is in Byron, it is the old that anchors us to our youth. So when you read about some of the original Byron Shire businesses that are still thriving in our towns, remember not to take them for granted - they are a bridge between the old and the new Byron. Whether you got your first car serviced at Simmo’s garage, or drank your first schooey at the Rails, In this issue we celebrate some of the still living memories of Byron’s past.

mac’s milk bar E

stablished over fifty years ago by the Wall family has small shop attached ot the family home, Macs Milk Bar has been a muh loved institution on the way into town off Bangalow Road.

Named Macs, when it was owned by the Mac Family some twenty five years ago, Mac’s Cafe has featured some of Byron’s favourite burgers.

So well known by the locals that they even named some of the menu after some of their most loyal customers, like the “Hayoe” Burger after Josh Hayhow. Josh is one of the many characters that find refuge from the ultra-trendy Byron that surrounds Mac’s like a an island in the sea.

Kath Gell, the matriach of the Gell family who have, for the last 5 years, given Mac’s their own unique style and flavour but unfortunately they are now shutting up shop.

It is a sad goodbye to one of the oh-so-rare family run style businesses, the sort of store that provides its own ongoing real life drama of a family opening there doors and hearts to the community. www.byronlifemag.com 23 www.byronlifemag.com 23

Byron Bay Lifeguards - 1939

T Model Ford, William James - c1924

Killen Falls Bangalow - 1930

Norco, Byron Bay - early 1900s 22 www.byronlifemag.com

The Ryan twins

1897

Young women at the beach Byron Bay - 1938 Empire Day www.byronlifemag.com 23

nomads a genuine

HAPPENING TRIBES AND HAPPY PEOPLE, THE ARTS FACTORY LODGE IS ONE OF THE MOST GENUINE BYRON EXPERIENCES YOU CAN GET, BEST OF ALL, AT A BARGAIN RATE. FAMOUS WITH BACKPACKERS WORLDWIDE AND A LOCAL INSTITUTION FAMOUS FOR MUSIC AND MUCHO VIBES, THIS HOSTEL EVOLVED FROM A HIPPIE COMMUNE TO A ROCKING MUSIC VENUE BEFORE OFFERING EXCITABLE TRAVELLERS A PLACE TO REST THEIR HEAD.

O

pposite the hostel, where the Byron Bay Premium Brewery is now, was the Piggery, the famous venue founded by Californian Dan Doepel. The site prior to this was a pig slaughter house, hence the venue aptly named the Piggery. The brewery site was once also an art gallery, many of the artists visiting Byron Bay would stay in the lodge.

The Piggery was the site of the first Byron Bay Blues Festivals and hosted major industry names, including The Pogues, The Violent Femmes, Crowded House and Paul Kelly. A victim of its own success, the gigs outgrew the venue and it sat defunct. The Lowry family who were lovers of the Byron Bay lifestyle had the grand vision to create the Arts Factory Backpackers Lodge. Their passion for the area and forethought led to the development of the creative space we know and love today, preserving the vibe and energy of guests who had stayed over the years.

26 www.byronlifemag.com

-

B

s

e

THEN&NOW

- the arts factory lodge

Byron experience

The Arts Factory Lodge not only leaves a mark on the spirit of all who stay there, but also on the people who are fortunate enough to work there.

Long-term member of the Arts Factory family, Craig Shaw, has been with the lodge since it opened 24 years ago. The café owner operator’s Steve and Sorrell Millis, have been involved with the hostel for 18 years. Sorrell was the manager before leaving on maternity leave, only to return by purchasing the hostel café. The current manager, Peggy O’Neill, has been in her position for thirteen years and counting. It’s more than a job to these guys, it’s their lifestyle, passion and they love what they do.

Epic events and blockbuster movies have also called the Arts Factory Lodge home, including a Guinness World Record for the most people twirling fire. The lodge set the record in 2009 with 102 people and then broke their own record a year later with 112.

This home-away-from-home provides so much more than a place to rest your head. It is famous for the musicians who perform regularly on-site as well as hosting a huge range of activities, from bush tucker walks, yoga and African drumming to talent shows and art workshops. Volunteer in the eco garden in exchange for fresh produce, sleep under the stars in ‘The Jungle’ or stretch out in a massive teepee. Chill out in the five acres of subtropical gardens and prepare to make life-long friends.

This place of mystical magic has meant to much to so many and will continue to provide epic adventures for generations to come.

www.byronlifemag.com 27

THEN&NOW

Our magnificent matron

shirley nelson

AS SHE WALKS THROUGH THE STREETS OF BYRON BAY, LONG-TIME LOCALS OF THE NOT-SO-SLEEPY SURF TOWN STOP TO GIVE HER A WARM SMILE. “GOOD MORNING, MATRON,” THEY SAY, OUT OF RESPECT FOR THE MANY YEARS SHE SPENT DEDICATED TO SHAPING THE FABRIC OF OUR MEDICAL SYSTEMS.

S

hirley Nelson describes herself as one of the original backpackers, only she had an arranged job to look forward to upon her arrival into Australia. She spent six weeks on a ship from England, an experience in itself, and one where she was paid more for those six weeks at sea than she would have made in England in an entire year as a midwife. She arrived in Hobart in 1962, and then travelled extensively until 1970, including returning to London for a year during which time she undertook a Cordon Bleu cookery course.

With her long-term friend, Nan, Shirley returned back to Australia in 1970, and found herself housesitting near Lismore. She worked for the State Health Department as a school nurse, before applying for the Matron position at the Byron Bay Hospital. She was the youngest appointed Matron the region had seen, a position which evolved into the Director of Nursing and oversaw both Mullumbimby and Byron Bay Hospitals.

She reflects on the many changes she experienced in the medical industry.

“The fabric of the hospital changed many times, especially with regards to midwifery and birthing methods. New technology was constantly introduced; ECG machines, monitors, defibrillators and of course computers. We had wonderful doctors who cut their teeth in rural towns and had picked up outback surgical skills. They provided major surgical services, however these services later ceased and were performed only in larger hospitals.”

“It is a very sterile and disposable culture these days, we used to make our own cotton wool balls and dressings, where everything just comes in a packet ready to go now,” Shirley said.

Her dedication to the community only intensified when she was approached by George Feros, a man with a dream to provide

quality care for the elderly in Byron Bay. This ambitious dream started in 1976, and a formal committee was appointed in 1979.

It took years of fundraising and cutting through ridiculous amounts of red tape for Feros Village to be opened in 1990. A second facility was later opened in Bangalow. The Feros brand is now recognised nationwide as a place for elderly citizens to grow bolder rather than older.

Shirley’s tenacious work in the health field, particularly with Feros Care, was officially recognised in 1992, when she received an Order of Australia Medal for outstanding services to nursing and the community.

Walking through the main street of town today, she is relieved that much of the character of the Byron Bay she fell in love with in 1970, is still alive today.

“George once said to me that the surfers are more generous than any other man you’ll see on the street, and he was right. The town is certainly wealthier now, but the free spirit and surf connection is still here.”

28 www.byronlifemag.com

n

bay fm IN A COMMUNITY SATURATED WITH EPIC TALENT ACROSS THE SPECTRUM OF THE ARTS, IT’S NOT SURPRISING THAT BAY FM PUNCHES WELL ABOVE ITS WEIGHT IN TERMS OF NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND AWARDS FOR ITS COMMUNITY RADIO STATION.

B

ut it doesn’t just throw those impressive punches, it deals a knock-out blow when you consider that it is among the top 10 community radio stations in Australia. And this includes the big community stations in the capital cities. It took out a grand prize by winning Station Of The Year in 2006, from the Community Broadcasting Association and currently has three shows selected to be played nationally on the Community Radio Network weekly.

From its inception when a group of people met and formed the station in 1997, Bay FM’s journey hasn’t been without struggle and sacrifice.

However as Bay FM’s President, Oliver McElligott explains, it is the wealth of local talent and heart of the community which has allowed Bay FM to strengthen the waves of information.

For the community

Oliver explained, “A well-known local business man, Bay FM lover and all round nice guy, Warren Simmons, offered us the use of his land just opposite the Butler Street market site, so we literally picked up and moved the station on the back of a truck through town early one morning.”

“Much to people’s surprise, an army of Bay FM volunteers pooled their skills and efforts to pull it off with no break to our transmission. It then took two-and-a-half years to build our new studios into the empty shell of the community centre.”

The community has always been at the heart of Bay FM’s transmissions, highlighting the diverse cultures, celebrating multiculturalism and of course, playing an entertaining and eclectic range of music. Tune into 99.9FM and find out why people can’t stop listening to the Bay’s favourite FM station.

“Our transmitter which had been running for around 25 years was about to fail in 2015, due to old age. It did extremely well to last that long in the marine environment of the St Helena transmitter site. Under our broadcast license, we are allowed to broadcast at 3000 watts but our old beast was only pumping out just over 1000 watts in its final days”.

“Radio transmitters are not cheap and it would cost $25,000 to get a new one from the specialist Italian manufacturer. We started our ‘Watts Up’ campaign to crowd fund for the replacement transmitter. People could purchase Watts for $5 for our new transmitter.”

“The community really got behind us and the money was raised. With our new transmitter working at full strength, hopefully it will serve the community for the next 25 years,” he said.

The station’s biggest challenge came in 2001, along with a frequency change from 91.3 to 99.9FM, Bay FM realised it would need to re-locate while the new Community Centre was being built.

In true Aussie ingenuity fashion, the station was moved on the back of the truck, literally, through the middle of town! www.byronlifemag.com 29

First National

A memorable move

WHAT WAS ONCE CONCLUDED WITH A HANDSHAKE AND GOODWILL IS NOW A THOROUGH AND CONSIDERED PROCESS INVOLVING COMPLEX DOCUMENTS AND LEGALLY BINDING PAPERWORK.

P

rincipal of First National Byron Bay, Chris Hanley (OAM), takes a nostalgic look back at the real estate industry of yesteryear, recalling the simplistic approach to buying and selling prior to computers and the internet.

“The agent was the fount of all data, the fount of all information. A buyer needed an agent more in those days, as the agent had all the information regarding sale prices either in a book on his desk or in his head. Now, that information is readily available on the internet. There is more transparency in the industry now.”

“Gone are the days where a buyer would travel to the real estate office, then get in an agent’s car, spending hours looking at property. The car was a connection capsule, especially when it came to rural real estate. It wasn’t uncommon for an agent to spend a day with a client, stopping for a picnic for lunch, in-between showing homes and land, building a real connection and rapport,” Chris said.

Technology has played a big part in changing the way an agent now connects people with property.

“The agent would do everything, from floor plans and writing advertisements to taking photos and placing signs. There are now professionals who look after many of those aspects for the agent, although some agents still prefer a hands-on approach.”

“Photos of course were an effort in themselves. We take for granted how instant images are now. Previously we would have to wait for the photo to be developed, collect it and then place it in a window card. The process could take a week.”

“Keeping up with the latest technology is imperative to providing the best service. First National Byron Bay sells the most property in the Byron Shire, and that is due to the extensive research we do continuously on each community. We pride ourselves on having the most up-to-date and detailed knowledge on hand as a result of this research. We embrace technology and provide crucial data to give the best guidance possible during the marketing process,” Chris said.

In the 1980’s, it was possible for an agent to sell a home for a client on a handshake. Today however, the agency agreement must be in writing and the sale itself involves a lot of legal and financial paperwork. Trust in the agents who know Byron the best and make your next move a memorable one.

Profile Pools & Landscaping WHILE SOME NOSTALGIA CAN BE FUN TO KEEP AROUND, YOUR POOL IS AN ASSET YOU MAY WANT TO REVIVE FROM THE 1980’S.

W

ith more than 20 years of experience in the pool building and landscape industry, owner of Profile Pools and Landscaping, Tony, has seen many changes in the way people think about their pool.

“No longer is a pool just the average 8 X 4 in the backyard. These days the pool or spa is the focal point of a wider entertainment area, where people gather, celebrate and spend their weekends. Pools are becoming more imaginative; with water features, beach areas and infinity edges.”

“This is why we have built our business around providing the entire package, from concept and design to installation and then maintenance. We integrate the pool or spa with the surrounding landscaping for a seamless result. Our team are experienced and qualified landscapers and pool builders; together we can do as little or as much as a client requires, we problem-solve to make almost any dream a reality. We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach, we custom-create designs to deliver unique leisure areas,” Tony said.

With the only specialised pool shop in town, Tony and his team provide everything you need to keep your pool sparkling at competitive prices.

“People can bring their water into us for testing or we can test on site to ensure their water is balanced. We also specialise in building pools in tricky situations as well as renovating old pools making them look new and fresh again. We also install all pool equipment eg pumps, filters, chlorinators, cleaners, etc and can recommend energy efficient models to help save on electricity bills.” Tony said.

A local team with strong ties to the Byron community, see Tony at Profile Pools and Landscaping for all your pool requirements, from planning to poolside perfection.

30 www.byronlifemag.com

THEN&NOW

the office

Accountants &Business Advisors

NOT ALL BUSINESSES ARE THE SAME, THEREFORE NEITHER ARE THEIR FINANCIAL OR BUSINESS NEEDS.

C

onfusing financial reports, technical economic jargon and bean-counting ideology is becoming a thing of the past. The office… Accountants and Business Advisors, goes beyond the traditional realm of an accountancy firm, providing real-time advice across a wider spectrum of business.

With offices in Bangalow and Byron Bay, this modern approach to accounting is attracting global clients, thanks to the evolution of the business model utilising new-age technology and a client focused approach. The office partners, Greg Clark and Matthew Bleakley, explain how the adaptation of their business model has attracted a wider spectrum of clients.

“The entrepreneurs of today are tech-savvy and think globally. With the ability to run their businesses from anywhere in the world, Byron Bay is becoming a hub for new-age business owners, living the perfect lifestyle while still keeping their finger on the pulse of business.”

“By offering technology such as Xero software for our clients, we can offer on-the-spot and real-time advice on their financial situation. In a fast-paced business, especially in something as potentially volatile as the hospitality industry, or other internet-based businesses, having your accounts done annually can potentially be too late to prevent cash-flow issues. Without going into technical details, we can analyse figures such as gross profit margins and staff costs to sales ratios to know if a business is on track or potentially facing trouble. With real-time data analysis, we can see the financial position of a business week-to-week, rather than leaving the number crunching until the end of the year. This helps us to become more involved with clients, so we can advise in many aspects of their business, to help our clients ultimately succeed,” Greg said.

The Office provides a full range of accounting and taxation services, specialising in selfmanaged superannuation funds, and are a Xero Certified Gold Partner, meaning they are fully in-the-know when it comes to everything technical the Xero software platform can offer, including a vast array of apps that integrate with this new-age business solution. By

streamlining data using advancements in technology, Matt and Greg have more time to get out and visit their clients on-site, to provide the ultimate balance of old-fashioned customer service with the most up-to-date technical support.

“We’re not desk-bound, we have a holistic approach when it comes to looking after the finances of our client’s businesses, which range from local small and medium-sized enterprises to international family groups who have invested in the area. We like to understand what they do and how they do it, putting us in a better position to deliver advice. What we enjoy is forward planning and setting goals with our clients,” Matt said.

When it comes to your business or personal financial position, don’t just dream success, achieve it. Find out how the office and Xero can deliver real-time results so you can keep your finger on the pulse of your finances.

Call us today on (02) 66 872 960 or email info@theofficeaccountants.com.au to find out how we can help you

www.byronlifemag.com 31

THEN&NOW

eden at b PLANTS ARE LIFE. IT IS THAT SIMPLE.

T

hey are fundamentally the most important items on earth and as we make conscious choices to live healthier lifestyles, a revolution toward nurturing growth is gaining traction.

While previously gardening was thought to be the hobby of the elderly, more and more millennials are embracing the opportunity to fill their surrounds with verdant, thriving foliage. And as we collectively move toward an organic lifestyle, we want to know where our food has been grown. You can’t get any fresher or more organic than growing it yourself.

This millennial movement is great news for the garden centre industry.

As Maree Curran from Eden at Byron explains, garden centres faced near extinction with the rise of large warehouse competition. “The Byron of yesteryear saw fresh fruit and vegetables, plants and flowers being sold all across town and through the valley. Garden centres were owned by families and were small businesses which relied on local support. Once larger warehouse-style corporations moved within a radius of these businesses, most were gobbled up due to economic pressure. Unfortunately the demise of these unique and quirky family-owned businesses also saw a lot of unusual plants and flowers disappear from the market. People planted what was easy

32 www.byronlifemag.com

t byron

The way we grow and would opt for the cheapest supplier. It was hard for a family to compete with the mass buying power of these large corporations.”

“Thankfully what we are seeing now is a surge in the opposite direction, where consumers are mindful of where their plants and flowers come from. They want to know what soil they were planted in, if they have been grown organically, if no chemicals have been used to treat them. This is where businesses like ours thrive, as we have adapted natural solutions over the years to combat almost every problem a plant can face.”

“We understand the interaction of the eco-system, how plants and bugs are inter-connected. So we have the ability to provide organic solutions in almost any situation,” Maree said.

She commented, “People are interested in plants again and we love to share our passion and knowledge. A home full of plants has been proven to be beneficial to health and wellbeing. It can be as satisfying as having a pet, watching your plants grow and take shape. It’s a form of self-nurturing to be surrounded by plants, a chance to connect with nature in your own home for a healthier environment.”

Even those who fear they haven’t a green thumb, can’t go wrong with some micro-greens in the kitchen. Add some herbs, graduate to succulents, plant some vegetables in the backyard and before you know it, your environment is lush and you have something other than the beach to post on Insta.

Visit the team at Eden at Byron and find out how a plant in your hand is more exciting than two in the bush.

140 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay, NSW Open 9am – 5pm Monday - Saturday 9am - 4pm Sunday. August – May 02 6685 6874 www.edenatbyron.com.au

“We can help you FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE” - Michael

Contact Michael Murray 0428 555501 | 02 6684 1744 www.byronpropertysearch.com.au

www.byronlifemag.com 33

painted earth WE SPEND ON AVERAGE 14 HOURS PER DAY AT HOME. MORE IF WE WORK FROM HOME, ARE PRE-SCHOOL AGE OR ELDERLY. WE TREAT OUR HOME LIKE A SANCTUARY, BUT ARE WE TAKING A CLOSE LOOK AT THE MATERIALS WE LIVE, BREATHE AND TOUCH DAILY?

E

xposure to harmful agents inside the home can have profound effects on our health.

Founder of eco paint and building supplies companies, Painted Earth and the Green Building Centre, Deb Preston, shares how the evolution of her business has been making Byron homes healthier for the past decade.

“It has taken time, but non-toxic, and environmentally responsible building products are now taking traction and becoming easier to source. Europe is ahead of Australia in this field and many countries are now legislating against paint with VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds). Rockcote Ecostyle is our top selling zero VOC paint. It’s great value as a high quality acrylic paint with a 15 year warranty for both interior and exterior use,” Deb said.

Deb has been a visionary for organic and natural products for more than 20 years, studying, cooking and working in natural therapies and organic food in Sydney before moving to Byron Bay. She moved into a converted banana shed in the hinterland, which she renovated sourcing natural paint

Deb Preston

and wood finishes. Many of her products came from a supplier in Mullumbimby, whom Deb come to know well. When the small business was offered to her to purchase, Deb saw this as an opportunity to further her knowledge in the natural building industry.

Her business started in an incubator unit in the industrial estate, where the GFC made business hard-going for many years. As eco and sustainable products became more readily-available and affordable, her business has flourished as people make more mindful decisions about the environment they live within.

“Low VOC paints are equally as durable and easy to use as high VOC paints, and now the cost is very similar. They have a high-performance rating which have been tried and tested for decades now.

It really is about making the right choice for our bodies and the environment.”

Painted Earth now sells Australia’s largest range of modern, eco-friendly and non-toxic house paints and wood finishes. It’s about being human and planet conscious. For advice, see Deb at Painted Earth, 1 Brigantine St, Byron Bay.

Want to Create a Healthy Home for You & Your Family?

Building or renovating? Interested in healthier material and product choices but don’t have time to do the research. Concerned about indoor air quality, mould or electromagnetic fields, then we can help.

Contact Healthy Living Spaces to create a home that supports your health and wellbeing. We can tailor our Healthy Home Consults to your individual needs.

+61 (0)411 111 645 | narelle@healthylivingspaces.com.au | healthylivingspaces.com.au 34 www.byronlifemag.com

byron music

THEN&NOW

Hitting the right notes

AN INSPIRATIONAL TOWN WHICH HAS BOTH PRODUCED AND HOSTED WORLD-CLASS MUSO’S, BYRON BAY HAS LONG BEEN A CREATIVE HUB FOR THOSE WHO LOVE TO MAKE MUSIC.

A

t the heart of this hub is Byron Music.

Opened in 1985 by Pip Lee, the store was originally located on Jonson Street opposite Woolworths. 15 years later it was bought by Craig ‘Barney’ Potter and Leonie Fulton who relocated the store to the now demolished part of the Woolworths carpark. They handed over the reins after 15 years to current owners and music teachers, Nick and Madelyn Sergi, who have owned and operated the funky instrument store at 144 Jonson St since New Year’s Day, 2015. Madelyn also teaches at Byron High.

too, which only gets better when you watch them progress from an enthusiast into a professional.

“I’ve been fortunate to see this a lot, and the previous business owners also have some great stories to tell of locals who used to come here for music lessons and then have gone on to bigger gigs. Parkway Drive, In Hearts Wake, Garrett Kato, Kyle Lionhart, Tora and so many more.”

Visit Byron Music for all the musical inspiration you need to hit the right notes.

Byron Music sells a range of contemporary instruments; guitars and bass, drums and percussion, keyboards and pianos, amplification, PA systems and audio recording.

Other services it provides are tuition, repairs and hire. Nick commented that technology has played a large part in refining and changing the way instruments are used today.

“We sell instruments in their traditional form, everyone still wants a Sunburst Fender Stratocaster and a Marshall stack! But digital instruments have revolutionised what it is now possible to hear, it’s pretty cool stuff!”

Nick says that the best part of being in the music industry is seeing and hearing his instruments being put to work, and in a town like Byron, you’re likely to reap those rewards on the street or in a local pub.

“It’s great when someone buys a product then you see them in town busking on the street or at their first live gig. Seeing a beginner buy their first instrument is exciting

ENROLLING NOW for 2018 In our great school, your child’s individuality and achievement is celebrated.

We are renowned for academic, creative and sporting excellence.

We encourage all our students to be successful and support them in their efforts.

9 Jubilee Ave Mullumbimby

6684 2600

www.byronlifemag.com 35

get to know

David Gordon

Jackson Prestwidge

Ray White Real Estate Byron Bay Owner

The Byron Baby Shop Owner

FAST 7 FACTS

FAST 7 FACTS

Star Sign: Libran

Star Sign: Gemini

Favourite Movie: Are you kidding? Too many to choose just one!

Favourite Movie: Ace Ventura - When Nature Calls

Favourite Colour: Blue

Favourite Colour: Blue

Favourite Holiday Destination: Italy and Fiji

Favourite Holiday Destination: Forster, Tuncurry

Favourite Music: Gangs of Youths, Calvin Harris, Imagine Dragons

Favourite Music: Folk

Favourite Quote: “You can get along way on a little bit of GRIT”

Favourite Quote: If you’re going to repay a favour, repay it double

Tell us something most people don’t know about you:

I’m an accomplished high altitude mountaineer and have spent the last ten years climbing some of the highest mountains on various continents throughout the world. My climbs have taken me to Nepal, Tibet, New Zealand, Russia, Argentina and Africa. I have only a couple more to go until I reach my dream goal.

As a fourth generation Real Estate professional, Dave has I love of property running in his veins. Starting out in the industry at just 18 years old, he is proud to say it has been his one and only chosen career for the last 33 years.

His love of the area, from the mountains to the sea has kept Dave passionate about property to this day.

“I’m also fortunate to work in a people industry and get to meet some wonderful people throughout the whole region”, said Dave.

Dave leads a strong team at Ray White and enjoys mentoring them to be the best they can become. On the home front, Dave has two teenagers living at home which he describes as challenging but also very rewarding.

“I’m also very passionate about travel and giving my children experiences that I never had growing up,” said Dave.

In his spare time, Dave is an active guy who loves any form of exercise, especially outdoors. From surfing to stand-up paddle, mountain climbing to obstacle races, he is always out enjoying our beautiful region.

“I’m rewarded in so many ways every day and you don’t have to go far to be reminded of just how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of one of the best countries in the world,” said Dave.

36 www.byronlifemag.com

Tell us something most people don’t know about you:

I am an endorsed enrolled nurse

At his core Jackson is a family man and his ambition in life is to be a great father and a great husband. He leads a happy life and in-turn creates a happy life for his two boys.

Originally from Tuncurry, he left when he was 19, moving to Wagga for university. Then, three years ago he moved to Byron, where he now calls home.

Jackson owns The Byron Baby shop which he hopes to turn into a franchise one day and in his spare time he loves hanging out with his family. His other hobbies include Muay Thai, Brazillian Jiu Jitsu, running and surfing.

An active guy, Jackson is always on the move. He made the top 5% of runners in the 21km Gold Coast half marathon. He is also one of the coaches at the Academy of Mixed Martial Arts in Byron.

Jackson’s other achievements include being able to eat 1kg of steak in under 15 minutes and being able to skull a beer in less than 7 seconds. His wife is a lucky lady!

Jackson would also like to share that Kevin Bacon is not made of bacon, flyspray won’t make you fly and if you eat 1kg of marshmallows it won’t make you mellow.

Thanks for clearing that up Jackson, it’s been great having you in the magazine!

Soak up the early morning rays with Australia’s most luxurious sunrise experience, Toast The Sun.

Monique Hartman Popped Creative Co-founder/Director

FAST 7 FACTS Star Sign: Gemini Favourite Movie: I’m more of a TV gal. Mad Men, Californication, 30 Rock, Veep

Favourite Colour: Green Favourite Holiday Destination: Cairns Favourite Music: Rock, Jazz, Folk Favourite Quote: “Not all those who wander are lost”, – JR Tolkien Tell us something most people don’t know about you: Before moving to Byron Bay I shaved my head and worked as the only female crew member on a working cargo boat in FNQ for a year.

The words dynamic go-getter sum Monique up perfectly. She produced her first festival when she was 16 and has always held down at least two jobs using her earnings to back her events. She has written two books and launched Popped Creative, a new events and creative services agency in May this year.

Originally from The Entrance on the Central Coast, Monique is a big believer in being part of social change and dedicated to creating broader acknowledgement of some of the marginalised groups in society. She believes we are missing out on so much by removing seniors from our mainstream conversation and also wants to close the gap for Indigenous Australia.

“I would love to see a day when we actually respect, revere, and consult with our First Nations people by default, especially on matters relating to the environment and land.”

“It’s not much of a stretch to see how arts and culture, elder consultation, and Indigenous connections are closely tied together, and I very much want to work in all three spaces more.”

In her spare time Monique loves cooking, entertaining, reading, writing, going to the beach, boxing, road trips, enjoying wine with friends. She has also promised a lot of people she’s going to start surfing this summer and now all Byron Life readers know too, she must really mean it!

The humble picnic receives a gourmet makeover, set against Byron’s breathtaking sunrises and annual whale migration.

MAXIMISING THE VALUE OF YOUR PROPERTY WHILE ACTING WITH INTEGRITY; IT TAKES KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND EXPERIENCE. RAY WHITE PROUDLY PROCLAIM TO HAVE SOLD MORE PROPERTIES IN AUSTRALASIA THAN ANY OTHER REAL ESTATE GROUP. SO ISN’T IT TIME YOU LISTED WITH THE LOCAL AGENTS WHO WILL GIVE YOUR PROPERTY PRIORITY? Ray White Byron Bay specialises in all areas of real estate, from buying selling and renting, to residential, holiday and commercial. Covering Mullumbimby to Brunswick and Ocean Shores, Bangalow and all areas inbetween; Ray White have the local area covered, with in-depth knowledge on the local market, buying and selling trends and trade experience to maximise sales.

Years of experience can make a world of difference when choosing your agent to sell your home and this is one of the key points that the team at Ray White bring to the table. Every Ray White Real Estate agent is supported by decades of customer care and local property knowledge.

Here is an insight into what makes the Ray White team a success.

MEET THE TEAM David Gordon aka Gordo

Principal / Commercial Manager As a fourth-generation real estate agent, David was born into the industry.

His 33 years with Ray White has resulted in a wealth of industry knowledge and experience.

“I’m very passionate about the Byron Bay community. I work hard to ensure that we deliver the best outcomes for our clients on a daily basis and am incredibly grateful to be able to raise a family in such a wonderful part of Australia.”

April Nicolson aka Apes Sales Consultant

SKILL EXPERIENCE KNOWLEDGE

Originally from Sydney’s Palm Beach, April is now heavily involved in the Byron Shire community and enjoys giving back. Her sponsorship and volunteering event contributions have raised more than $60,000 for local charities. Her 15 years of industry experience includes 10 years as a business development manager and property manager before moving to sales.

“I want every client that works with me to feel the need to tell others about their incredible experience.”

Damien Smith aka Damo Sales Consultant

Originally from Tasmania, Damien moved to Byron Bay on a five-year plan, but after 14 years soaking up the beach and community lifestyle, he has no plans on moving. He spends his Saturday’s playing soccer and volunteers as a coach. His 14 years of industry experience includes property management and sales.

“Go hard or go home!! If you’re not prepared to work as hard as you possibly can for your clients then you are in the wrong industry.”

Michael Gudgeon aka Gudge Sales Consultant

Michael is the epitome of the Byron lifestyle. He has lived in the area for 30 years and surfed all his life. He keeps fit mountain biking and swimming, a regular competitor at 2km ocean races. In his 18 years with Ray White, Michael has specialised in residential, rural and commercial sales.

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, either way you are right.”

38 www.byronlifemag.com

The highly focused team Matthew McCormack aka Macca

Kelly Brown aka Kel

Originally from regional Victoria, Matthew spent five years living the city life in Melbourne before moving to the Byron area two years ago. He brings four years of industry experience to the team and is loving the sea change and warmer climate.

Home is where the heart is, and that’s Byron Bay for Kelly. She moved to the Gold Coast as a teenager and then backpacked Europe, but after having two children she returned to the town she loved, a simpler lifestyle back in Byron. She brings four years of industry experience to her position.

Sales Consultant

“You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take.”

Nicolas Rosso aka Nick

Sales Secretary

“Never let anyone dull your sparkle.”

Sales Consultant

Born and bred in the region, Nick has always called the Northern Rivers home; captivated by the natural beauty and lifestyle it provides. With a background in marketing and interior styling, Nick has honed his skills and passion for service, exceeding his clients’ expectations.

“Good service leads to multiple sales. If you take good care of your clients, they will open doors you could never open by yourself.”

Brett Connable aka Running Bear Sales Consultant

Born in Aspen, Colorado in the USA; Brett rolled into Byron Bay on a bicycle in 1994 and fell in love twice. First with Byron Bay and then with his future wife, Leone. 23 years later he is blessed with two sons and still adores the Northern Rivers region. He brings 12 years of residential, commercial and rural property sales experience to the team.

“My goal is clients for life. “I love working with people on their journey, and real estate is a big journey. My aim is to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible.”

Amber Bristow Sales Support

A Byron Bay Local, Amber explores all avenues within the local sporting community while enjoying family time at Byron’s beautiful beaches.

Amber is a new face at Ray White and is enjoying the transition, supporting the sales team.

While expert local knowledge is crucial to the success of his business, Principal of Ray White Byron Bay, David Gordon, explains how community relationships and looking after people is what brings results.

“Our reputation in the market is paramount, which is why it is humbling to know that almost 80 percent of our business is from referrals. It’s due to the passion we bring to the table for our clients. Most of our sales team members have been with us for more than a decade and we consistently receive a 10 out of 10 rating from the Ray White Customer Monitor program.”

“Although we are in the business of property, we are really in the business of people. The people who are selling their home to move to a new destination, fulfilling the dream of a first-home buyer. Helping families who are renting and ensuring investments and commercial properties are being looked after. This is also why we engage heavily with the local community. We donate to the Surf Club, Soccer Club, Rotary, Primary School, Steiner School, Community School, Northern Rivers Community Foundation and Scouts, just to name a few,” David said.

In the current market, there has never been a more important time than now to ensure that you are entrusting your property with the best agent. Find the Ray White team at 15 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay, to make your next move a success.

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” www.byronlifemag.com 39

call us to discuss selling your Byron Hinterland home

nt e g A e h t t e e M

Duncan Lorimer Principal and licencee in charge of Elders Bangalow Duncan began his Real Estate career in 1979 working in Sydney’s lower North Shore and has been involved with literally every aspect of Real Estate. These days he likes to specialise in lifestyle hinterland property and has been self-employed for 30 years.

What are your top tips for buying property in this current market?

I think if you are a new comer to the area the best plan for finding a new home is hire a car and simply drive around for a few days to help understand the different areas. The Hinterland is so diverse it can be confusing for a buyer. As soon as you establish a specific area you would like to call home you can focus on what you really want and need in a home.

Shop 3/5 Lismore Rd Bangalow

When selling a house, what would you recommend our readers look for in selling agent?

Honesty and integrity in an agent is worth its weight in gold. Also, look for an agent who has runs on the board, someone who has a proven track record of continued excellent results with happy clients.

Any tips and tricks for our readers looking to get into the property game?

Do your homework on a specific area so you really understand the market in that particular location and then be ready to make a decision promptly when you find the right property.

Tell us about your perfect home: Everyone has different wants and needs but for me I like views, established tropical gardens with plenty of space and privacy. In regards to the house itself something very modern and solar passive or an older style charmer, both styles appeal to me.

6687 1500 www.eldersbangalow.com.au

I feel this part of the world is very special and we are very fortunate to be able to live in such a wonderful environment taking into account the natural landscape, beaches and the amazing communities we have.

inoutside

Less stress than a reno, more stylish than a man-cave; Inoutside is simply that, more inside room, outside.

The clever concept provides an economically viable and environmentally conscious alternative to provide families with extra living space. How you choose to utilise the space is entirely up to you and only limited by your imagination. An art gallery, pottery den, music studio, pool house or a selfsufficient apartment; Inoutside is revolutionizing the way we choose to live through simple modular lifestyle buildings.

The genius minds behind these stylish studios are Tony and Julie Atkinson.

While living in England, Tony’s career as a builder involved converting attics into functional rooms. The couple moved to Australia 13 years ago, and Tony continued working as a carpenter. With a passion for increasing household space, Tony looked for alternative solutions given that Australian households

rarely have attics or basements. He blended the need for more space with the Australian lifestyle of living outdoors and created Inoutside, outdoor rooms that stylishly incorporate nature’s rugged beauty with the convenience of encapsulating more indoor space.

There are three styles of studio to choose from, each is made-to-order and completely customisable. Each Inoutside living space is constructed from highquality building materials which meet all Australian building standards. You then have a choice of attractive finishing materials to choose from to suit your landscape style. The units can be raised off the ground in flood-prone areas to mimic the popular ‘Queenslander’ style, and can either run off an existing property’s main power supply or be converted to run off a solar solution.

Inoutside have just launched a new Design It tool that let’s you build your dream outdoor room, retreat or granny flat online and see a live quote as you tailor your design. Visit inoutside.com.au

more inside, outside Simple Process

Style & Function

Earth Friendly

Inoutside's efficient build process means your studio can be made and installed in 6 weeks with free delivery Australia-wide.

Inoutside’s modern, purposebuilt and portable designs let you achieve the best use of space to suit your work and lifestyle needs.

Inoutside’s locally sourced materials help reduce our carbon footprint and integrate seamlessly into the natural environment.

Call Julie today on 0408 891 369 or drop us an email info@inoutside.com.au We look forward to talking soon.

inoutside.com.au

CASE22 WELCOMES THE RETURN OF FURNITURE DESIGNER

n w o r B TH After a 45 year hiatus, Australian mid-century designer TH Brown is back and has landed at Case22 Byron Bay. Local business, Case22 prides itself in being a destination of the most sought-after mid-century furniture finds. The showroom,

nestled in a laneway in the Arts and Industrial Estate, houses the area’s greatest collection of design objects from Eames, Hans

Wegner, Børge Mogensen and more. And whilst their catalogue

of items are primarily sourced from abroad and pre-loved, owners

Aaron Treloar and Kincade Wilks were very excited when they were

approached by the grandson of famed Australian furniture designer 42 www.byronlifemag.com

TH Brown and son of mid-century designer Peter Brown, to discuss stocking the re-issue of an Australian design icon – their famed Danish Bar Stool.

‘We were really excited to even be considered’, says Kincade, who heads up the Byron Bay operation. ‘It made sense to us to stock

these stools. They’re stunning and crafted beautifully and stand for

what we value here at Case22 - original, solid and beautiful design.’

The TH Brown brand has produced many of the most sought-after

mid-century, retro furniture pieces ever produced in Australia. Iconic in design and highly coveted, these original examples have become heirlooms and are seen in many magazines, exhibitions and design showrooms around the world.

Since they’ve resumed production of their iconic mid-century

designs after a 45 year hiatus, the response from the public has

been overwhelming. Carefully produced under license in Adelaide

by Workspace Commercial Furniture P/L (formerly TH Brown

Furniture P/L) – the original manufacturing space used back in the 50’s, the attention to detail remains the same today as it did then.

‘Each limited edition stool is hand finished to the same standards as the original craftsman, so you really are experiencing the originals when you invest,’ Kincade explains.

‘It just blows my mind how these designs were created so long

ago, and yet are entirely relevant today,’ says Wilks. ‘Take stylist,

Mr. Jason Grant, whose eye for design and trend is inspiring. You look at the way he styles mid-century furniture in his latest book

Modern Retro Home and you can really see how a piece like the Danish Bar Stool can effortlessly compliment your existing home décor.’

TH Brown’s return to the furniture game with the Danish Bar Stool has enthusiasts pumped – but there’s more to come. ‘We’ve just

received a new Martelle Bar Stool and, quietly, we’ve been told that

more of the range is to be released in the coming months,’ Kincade says excitedly. ‘This is just the beginning.’

Case22 Byron Bay is the exclusive TH Brown Flagship store in the Northern Rivers area. Numbers are limited. Head to the showroom to secure your TH Brown Danish Bar Stool today.

Paradiso Beauty Studio

1 x sign // 1485mm wide x 290mm high premium adhesive vinyl on 3mm thick acm panel $120 + gst

4 x window frosting // 1170m apply to inside of windows $50 + gst each

Paradiso Beauty Studio located in the heart of the beautiful Byron Bay offers a full range of beauty treatments.

Our highly experience staff and with the use of only the highest quality products you too leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated every time.

- OUR SERVICES INCLUDE -

• WAXING • SPRAY TAN • NAILS • ELECTROLYSIS

Install for• additional sign and frosting • MASSAGE SPA BODY THERAPY • SKIN CARE • MAKE UP $100 + gst • EYE LASH EXTENSIONS • TINTING Install for additional sign and frosting $100 +staff gst are happy to answer and advise on all concerns prior you your Our In-House nurse and friendly

treatment beginning to ensure the best of treatment to each individual.

Shop 3/14 Middleton St(cnr of Byron St ) Byron Bay

02 66 858 005

www.paradisiobeauty.com

FOOD THAT LOOKS GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT Perfectly styled food in your photographs is the best way to create beautiful images that bring the food to life and turn heads.

I can capture the full potential of your product with delicious-looking food to make the mouth water.

Your food served up with my style.

• Magazines and Cookbooks • Product Advertising • Television • Recipes • Food Packaging • Take-Away Menu Boards Create INSTANT appetite appeal.

BECAUSE WE ALL EAT WITH OUR EYES FIRST.

m: 0419 976 877 e: wbstyle@bigpond.com w: wendyberecry.com

Signag

horoscopes ARIES: (March 21- April 20)

LIBRA:

Your financial matters should be in much better nick very soon and surprise offers from unexpected sources. Some fun is also in offer and more romance as you meet new people. Something you have been trying to get off the ground for some time should now be ready to launch. Keep everything very clear in your head and important matters should be in writing.

Some unexpected travel could put a different slant on your ideas and big changes could be in the agenda. Do let your close ones take part in this side of your life. A good idea would be to listen to someone older and wiser you could never have too much help. Surprising period in which many of your wishes could come true suddenly.

Lucky Colour: Blue Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.1.

Lucky Day: Wednesday Lotto Numbers: 13.15.24.40.22.10.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20) Lucky Colour: Orange Racing Numbers: 6.4.2.7.

Lucky Day: Friday Lotto Numbers: 13.18.24.40.45.33.

This should be a very fortunate period for business and financial matters and you could be starting something you have been thinking about for some time now. Big changes that could see you travelling a lot. If on the lookout for a new partner this could be the time to find the right one, very good romance wise.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21) Lucky Colour: Lilac Racing Numbers: 8.4.5.7.

Lucky Day: Tuesday Lotto Numbers: 13.15.24.40.22.10.

You seem to be in two minds about your social and romantic life. A good period to listen to people with more experience in your field of work and take notice of advice. Very much a period of surprises and sudden changes, you could be thinking of long distance travel and new plans for the future is indicated.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22) Lucky Colour: Yellow Racing Numbers: 8.9.4.5.

Lucky Day: Thursday Lotto Numbers: 13.18.24.29.37.39.

(September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Orange Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.1.

Lucky Day: Tuesday Lotto Numbers: 13.15.26.2.20.44.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9.5.4.1. Lotto Numbers: 9.18.45.40.12.21 Housing and real estate will be much in your mind for the next few weeks. You could be very lucky in games of chance.

Plans to change some of your usual habits. A period in which you should use all the tact and diplomacy you can master as people around you could be easily irritated.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Red Racing Numbers: 9.5.1.3.

Lucky Day: Friday Lotto Numbers: 9.15.24.40.22.44.

There could be some extra concern about someone in your family. Otherwise a very busy time and some travel will be under taken or discussed very soon. Try not to overdo things during this period, not money or otherwise. Tendency to put on weight could also be there. Travel plans could go astray but love should flourish.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4.5.2.1. Lotto Numbers: 13.15.26.24.40.33.

Good run in career and work matters will give you a chance to relax a little. But more responsibility is coming up and you could be getting an offer too good to refuse. You might have neglected your health during the last few months and now need to be extra careful.

Trust your own instincts rather than get carried away with speculation. You could find something that will benefit you very much later on. Discussions with loved ones about some changes in your life style will become heated if caution is not used. Very busy period with meeting of new people that could turn into great friendships.

LEO: (July 23- August 22)

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Green Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.1.

Lucky Day: Saturday Lotto Numbers: 1.6.15.24.29.35.

You could be tempted in several ways during this period. Keep your purse strings tight and you could avoid some problems later on. Travel is very much on the agenda. News from far away could change your plans a lot in the future.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23) Lucky Colour: Violet Racing Numbers: 6.4.1.2.

Lucky Day: Thursday Lotto Numbers: 1.6.14.19.24.29.

Good time to start new ventures and taking some risks on the business world. Should be a good period in all aspects in your life and do not forget to enjoy it. Might be a difficult period to stay away from family problems, try not to let you get too excited about them though.

Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 6.5.2.1. Lotto Numbers: 13.15.24.40.33.36.

You could be disappointed in someone at first but later they will come through with flying colours. Do not let emotion colour your plans with business. Good period to start a fitness course or otherwise look after your health matters. If you feel you have missed on a chance in the past you should now be able to try again.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Beige Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 6.4.7.8. Lotto Numbers: 7.8.15.19.28.36.

You could be treading on thin ice if you mix your business and social life, keep domestic issues private during this period. Think positive and use your charm and you will win.

You have a chance to influence someone younger to follow a good example and get better enjoyment out of life.

$150 OFF A 21 DAY CLENSE FOR THE MONTHS OF OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER ONE COLONIC AND ONE LIPO AT $175

bottomsupcolonics.com.au 133 Ballina Rd Lismore , NSW

Jump into Spring with a 21 day cleanse LEARN ABOUT GETTING FLUSHED CALL TRACEY AT BOTTOMS UP COLONICS LISMORE ON 0256247009

MINDBODY&SOUL

THE HEALTH LODGE

Byron Integrated Medicine

IN THE PURSUIT OF TOTAL WELLNESS, PUT YOURSELF AT THE CENTRE OF INTEGRATED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE AS PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH AS YOU ARE. A vision 15 years in the making, Reine DuBois, Clinical Director of The Health Lodge, saw first-hand benefits from integrative medicine, a place where patients could receive comprehensive health care that employed a range of modalities.

“I wanted to create a haven for patients where they could receive all the treatment they needed to regain health - offering medical, psychological, nutritional, herbal and physical support. The Health Lodge is the culmination of this vision, where dedicated health professionals work with each other to keep people healthy.”

“The vision is still developing and The Health Lodge will continue to evolve as we answer the calls of more members of our local community, to provide them the best in health care. There are many paths to wellness, The Health Lodge provides many avenues for people to travel on their personal journey of wellbeing,” Reine said.

Reine’s vision has become an exciting reality, which has grown tremendously over the past two years, thanks to the support from the local community.

“Here we are creating the future of medicine and what better place to offer this holistic approach to health than here in Byron, where people want to live healthy lives. We are proud to say we really are a team of ‘health geeks’ who love nothing more than a challenge. It’s not just a profession, we care about the wellbeing of the community and work to great lengths to collectively solve complex health problems and illness,” Reine stated.

Much like servicing a car, Reine commented that it is more affordable to maintain wellness than to treat disease.

“We aim to be preventative rather than reactive and encourage people to crack their wellness code. What that means is there are means and ways to maintain peak health, whether it’s weekly or monthly massage, acupuncture, yoga or meditation, combined with mainstream medicine. Discovering what works for you, cracking your health code, to realise what makes you feel your best, that’s exciting stuff.”

“Don’t ignore those niggling problems, get them seen 46 www.byronlifemag.com

to before they turn into a larger problem. Talk to our experts about how you’re feeling, before your immunity is compromised and your body operates under duress. Stress can lead to adrenal fatigue which can leave you feeling tired and run down. Invest in your health. Some of our practitioners bulk-bill and we aim to be affordable for the community.”

Health and wellness stays are available, some are designed for maintaining health while others are uniquely tailored to fight chronic mental and physical disease, a place to rest and recover.

“Our practitioners come together to provide a united approach to wellness. With something as frustrating or debilitating as chronic pain, a team will work together to reach a solution. It’s at the one location, so the patient doesn’t have to re-explain themselves or try to explain what the practitioner before did. Our experts share cases and work together on the common goal of wellness,” Reine said.

Rediscover your health and live life with vigour and zest. Spanning both mainstream and complementary practices that focus on medical science, nutrition, physical, mind and emotional wellness; The Health Lodge is your local wellness destination.

To book your next appointment call The Health Lodge, 78 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay on 02 6685 6445 or book online at www.thehealthlodge.com.au.

THE HEALTH LODGE PRACTITIONERS IN FOCUS SIMON SULLIVAN Osteopath

Pain. It is something which many people live with on a daily basis, accepting it as a part of life.

But as Simon explains, it can be managed or improved.

“My job as an osteopath essentially is to find what is not moving well in your body and help it move. We work together to free up any restrictions which then allows you to feel less pain, exercise better and live your life to its fullest,” he said.

Simon has been working in the health industry for more than 10 years, starting as a sports massage therapist before completing his Masters of Osteopathic Medicine in 2015. With a twoyear-old son, he spends more time in the whitewash than out on the waves, but his keenness for surfing is one of the reasons he’s so passionate to help treat pain.

“If you are in pain try not to feel disheartened, there are things we can do that will help alleviate it. I aim to be as gentle as possible with any technique and always strive to find the underlying cause of your discomfort.”

SAM GILL Chiropractor

“I believe in harnessing the body’s amazing ability to heal itself and have a keen interest in how your emotions, (both conscious and subconscious), affect your physiology.”

Sam graduated from Macquarie University in 2009, with a Masters of Chiropractic. After graduating, Sam practiced in Scotland and Denmark for three years. In order to meet the Danish board requirements, he was required to learn Dutch.

“The people I worked for put up signs around the practice in Danish saying “Sam is not allowed to speak English”. I found this both amusing and very challenging, as I had no prior experience with the language!”

He is passionate about empowering individuals to thrive optimally. “I find that having an integrated approach to facilitating optimal health and function achieves greater balance in our nervous system, body and lives. My focus encompasses the physical, chemical, and emotional aspects of your family’s wellbeing,” Sam said.

MATT WIERZBICKI Yoga and Remedial Massage Therapist

“My aim is to help people with their overall health and wellbeing, no matter what stage of health or fitness they are at.”

Spending 15 years as an engineer, Matt still has a great deal of interest in environmental and sustainable engineering, but now sees the body as an amazing structure which moves and works every day. He has spent the past 10 years as a yoga teacher, where he has a particular interest also in meditation, helping people with chronic illness and assisting injury rehabilitation and management.

“Through yoga, I offer something for the body, emotions and the mind. Through this holistic an inner harmonizing and balancing occurs, leaving people feeling rested, relaxed and rejuvenated,” Matt said. Through yoga, corrective stretching and massage, Matt can help overcome muscular skeletal imbalance, to alleviate tightness, pain and restrictions in movement. It can also assist other afflictions such as headaches, fatigue, insomnia or digestive issues.

JOSHUA LEISHMAN Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine.

Acupuncture is more than needles. Acupuncture can assist in the reduction of anxiety, depression, pain and improves overall health by combining a range of techniques.

Joshua obtained his Bachelor of Health Science almost 20 years ago and has enhanced his study in China and Japan in Chinese herbal medicine and massage acupuncture.

“Chinese medicine from the classics is my primary interest. The classical formulas are recorded in a 2000 year old text. These texts are as relevant today as they were in the ancient era. I continue to spend time in China studying under master herbalists with a wealth of experience.

This is my passion. Text is useful but a teacher with fifty years’ experience is invaluable.

“With proper and skilled diagnosis and assessment, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture is able to treat many acute and chronic conditions effectively. It can enhance the body’s capability to utilise medications effectively, resulting in better patient outcomes,” Joshua said. www.byronlifemag.com 47

B L

Fun. Flirty. Unpredictable. Uninhibited.

Locally Made. Locally Designed “Beauty is style that effortlessly stands out from the crowd.” - Reshmai Knox

i r m p a r

byronblu_swimwear

0439 962 980

L

327 Byron Bay NSW 2481 reshmai@byronblubikini.com.au www.byronbluswimwear.com.au

T I w G a

V

B t a S R a

We care about you and the health of your skin Our Laser Treatments with the Gentle Max Pro include: • Hair removal • Skin rejuvenation • Active acne/scarring • Vascular lesions • Fungal nails • Skin pigmentation

25

%

discount

for hair removal on legs and arms

• Rosacea / Redness

90 Byron, Bangalow, NSW, 2479 | www.bangalowlaser.com.au

BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION NOW On 1300 210 610

MINDBODY&SOUL

Bangalow Laser is the only medical and aesthetic Laser business within the Northern Rivers region equipped with a Syneron-Candela GentleMax Pro Laser. This intelligent, medical grade, laser can treat a wide range of skin conditions including skin pigmentation, acne, acne scarring, hair removal and vascular lesions such as rosacea. The laser also offers a variety of aesthetic treatments for wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation.

Laser Hair Removal

Skin Pigmentation

The GentleMax Pro sets the standard for safe and effective laser hair removal.

If you’re thinking, ‘I’ve tried IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and it didn’t work or was really painful,’ then you will be relieved to know that the Syneron-Candela Gentle Max Pro Laser works differently to IPL. It is more precisely targeted with a cooling system that provides maximum patient comfort and safety

Living in a region known for its sundrenched beaches and outdoor living exposes us to sun damage which can age us beyond our years. At Bangalow Laser we can take years off your appearance with our safe and effective skin pigmentation treatments.

Take a look for yourself….

Vascular Lesions Bangalow Laser is the only local clinic able to offer medically supervised treatments for vascular lesions such as spider leg veins and facial veins (before and after photos below). Dr Bronwyn Hudson, in partnership with Vascular Surgeon, Dr Anthony Leslie, offer treatment for all forms of vascular lesions.

Rosacea and facial redness can also be treated with ease and medicare rebates are often available.

Pre treatment

Two weeks post treatment

Onychomycosis (Fungal Nails) Getting foot ready for summer means wearing open toe shoes or sandals.

Onychomycosis can be extremely troublesome but the GentalMax Pro Laser treatment can speed the healing process up to be rid of those unsightly nails for summer.

Pre treatment

Post treatment

Pre treatment

Post treatment

The team at Bangalow Laser who perform these transformative procedures are highly-trained medical professionals. Take advantage of a no-obligation free consultation with Bangalow Laser and make a plan to love the skin you’re in today.

MINDBODY&SOUL

makemeover! has been created by: Byron Beauty Bar

Hair Dresser : Shantele Barton Hair Stylist : Jana Chislett Make Up Artist : Carmen Jose MODEL : Renee When a busy mum of two is asked if she wants an afternoon of pampering, the answer is obviously yes!

Renee is originally from the little bush village of Dunoon and now lives in Ocean Shores with her husband and two daughters, aged seven and four.

The family own local tile store, Essence Tile and Stone in Billinudgel and Renee is constantly working. A break from routine was much needed and it was perfect timing because she was due a haircut!

“I never give myself time to do this kind of thing,” said Renee, “It was good to give myself time for pampering and fun! It was an amazing experience with the team at Byron Beauty Bar, I left feeling like a million dollars!”

AFTER

BEFORE

50 www.byronlife.com.au

Renee has fine hair that has been over processes. Her cut has grown out and lost its shape.

STEP 1: Cut & Colour Shantele opted for an asymmetric bob with a slight undercut to achieve fuller look with a sharp and sassy edge.

Renee had similar tones all over with a brassy reflect. Shantele wanted to achieve a natural look and chose a root blend one shade darker than Renee’s natural colour with soft balayage to highlight the bob frame.

STEP 2: Styling Jana opted for the Byron Beauty Bar signature blowdry to achieve volume and loose beachy waves.

She used Shu Uemura volume shampoo and Eimi Root shoot for extra volume.

STEP 3: Makeup Renee already had really great skin so Carmen just freshened it up a bit with SKll skincare and then I primed her skin with a liquid Laura Mercier water-based foundation primer. She then used a blend of two shades of the very light textured foundation (Becca Aqua Luminous) to achieve the perfect shade and give Renee a nice healthy, even glow. The Becca range has great staying power and you can barely feel it on your skin, a great option if you don’t want it sliding off your face in the Byron heat. A colour correcting under eye concealer which reflects the light, was then used to brighten up any minor shadows. This was also used to prime the eyelid before adding colour.

TIP:Using a primer ensures eye shadow lasts and also tends to bring a truer pigment out of any colour applied over the top.

Carmen used a number of bronze tones around her eyes, which really worked for Renee’s skin tone. She used both a pencil and powder on her brows to create definition while retaining a natural look. After that Carmen applied a gorgeous apricot toned La Prairie bronzer to various areas around the face to create subtle contouring. Carmen also opted for Modelrock false lashes to create a bit of drama. Working on the lips Carmen chose a nice and natural look using a Dior balm which changes colour depending on the warmth of your lips.

www.byronlife.com.au 51

MINDBODY&SOUL

Find your bliss

BAMBOO YOGA SCHOOL

“Yoga practice is designed to evolve our human potential. We strengthen our bodies, refine our minds and ultimately expand the spirit. We use our bodies, our breath, our actions and our minds to connect with spirit in a meaningful and purposeful way. Yoga ultimately seeks to support us in the journey to realise the best possible version of ourselves.”

home to Byron last year to establish the Bamboo Yoga School and teach within my home community.”

fter meeting Louise Sear on a yoga retreat in Bali, Mark Purser continued his exploration into the teachings of yoga by moving to Byron Bay in 1999. While some in the community will know Mark from his many other pursuits in media, surfing and hospitality; ultimately yoga has always been at the core of his spirit and is something he has continually practiced and pursued.

A key aspect to the Bamboo Yoga School is also to teach the ancient traditions associated with yoga and meditation. Mark aims to remain true to the ancient wisdom and classical knowledge of the practice but deliver it in a way which is practical in the context of modern life.

A

Mark studied yoga firstly in Byron Bay, then at the Academy of Yogic Science at Mangrove Mountain and with further study in India but still believes the quality of yoga teaching in Byron to be as good as anywhere in the world.

“I feel really fortunate to have connected with so many great teachers in Byron Bay. I’ve subsequently studied elsewhere, in Australia and overseas, but Byron Bay was a really important place for my learning of yoga,” he said.

“There is a strong tradition of yoga within Byron Bay. Yoga is a natural fit with the spiritual inclinations of many of the people who live in this area. To deepen my study of yoga, I spent time overseas connecting with various teachers and lived in ashrams. I returned

Mark founded the Bamboo Yoga School as an integral part of The Health Lodge and teaches a wide range of yoga styles; modern vinyasa yoga, yin yoga, kundalini yoga, and a strong focus on meditation and yoga nidra.

“There are a huge range of yoga practices that most people don’t know about, exploring internal cleansing, kundalini yoga, and meditation. We hope to make a lot of this deeper knowledge available for our students.

“I really like to support the students on their path, whatever it might be. I really enjoy connecting with a student and establishing their objectives, the aspect of their lives that they would like to develop, whether that is physical strength and flexibility, recovery from injury, relaxation or spiritual awareness; yoga can and should give us all of this.

“I truly love to make yoga an adventure, an adventure of the spirit, supporting people to learn and grow into a fuller, more realised version of themselves.

“As a teacher of yoga, that is my bliss.”

BE LIKE BAMBOO

STRONG. FLEXIBLE. PERENNIAL.

OPEN FOR STILLNESS

Daily Classes, Vinyasa, Yin, Kundalini, Yoga Nidra, Meditation

www.BambooYogaByron.com located at The Health Lodge 74-78 Bangalow Road Byron Bay

52 www.byronlife.com.au

SURFSALT&SAND

Meet

n o t r a W g i a r C Nickname: Warto Type of surfer: Free Surfer Type of board: Shortboard.

Fav food: Japanese Surf idol growing up: Kelly Slater, Tom Carroll and Margo.

Favourite saying: You only get one ticket might as well enjoy the ride.

Running from Tennyson Street down to the beach, Craig Warton’s childhood was typical of the natural free-spirited Byron Bay lifestyle. His parents and older brother surfed, so he was hanging out on the beach most days, then after Nippers he gained the confidence to get out on the waves himself.

From then, there was no stopping him. Regularly touted as being one of the most exciting aerial specialists to watch, Craig was initially criticized for racing past sections to do airs.

“I just loved going really fast on waves, it was what felt better to me. I loved to get as high off the wave as possible and pull it off, if it was an air-reverse or a grab then they are great feelings, that release and floating through the air at speed,” he said.

Throughout his career, Craig commented that he preferred the pursuit of perfect waves for photo shoots over competitions.

“One of the best trips I ever went on was to P-Pass near Guam. We were the first ones to stay at the new surf camp there and scored some amazing waves.

I really enjoyed the adventure side of traveling to places I had never been to before and seeing all the different cultures and ways of living. The waves we usually had were just a bonus.”

He escaped injury for the majority of his younger surfing days, but then blew out two ankles back-to-back which required a lot of physiotherapy and acupuncture. His most humbling moment on a board was on a trip to Hawaii with his mate, Dan Wills, where the power of nature became overwhelming real.

“Willsy dragged me out at Waimea in Hawaii when I was there for the first time.

All the locals were laughing at how small our boards were and were telling us it was going to be maxing out in the next hour. We had to sit inside on the bubble and we were at least 50 closer to shore than the others.

“We caught a few fun ones and then a real set came. I saw the guys way out scratching for the horizon. Willsy swung and free fell on the first one and I thought to myself ‘he's dead!’ I just managed to scratch over the first few and caught the last one. By far the scariest moment for me in the surf. Willsy made his one and was smiling and laughing when I caught my wave in,” Craig said.

These days, Craig is a sales rep for Diageo which keeps him on the move, and he loves nothing more than spending time with his wife, Kristel, and two kids, Bon and Delilah. He laughs that you’re just as likely to see him in lycra these days as you would in a wetsuit.

“I swore I’d never become a ‘MAMIL’ but I’m in lycra and loving it! I enjoy a run and bike ride most days. I try and fit a run or a surf in when I can when I’m on the road for work.”

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE YOU’VE EVER SURFED? “Mentawaii islands was amazing. I have never surfed waves as perfect as that ever. You surf from sun up to sun down and nothing is better.

“I also had a funny experience there one year when a group of us decided to climb up the volcano, not sure but I think it was Krackatoa, halfway up the thing just went bang and shook! We all shit ourselves but still went to the top.

Something I'll never forget, it was amazing.”

WHERE IS THE ONE PLACE IN THE WORLD YOU'D LOVE TO SURF? “Tahiti, would love to surf Teahupo'o.”

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT SURFING? “The connection with nature is great. That feeling when you are having a fun time with great mates getting amazing waves is truly hard to beat. Now days I get just as good a feeling pushing my kids into waves and seeing that look on their faces of pure enjoyment.”

www.byronlife.com.au 53

Meet ria

Ma n o ss l i N

LOCAL DESIGNER AND OWNER OF ATMOSEA WETSUITS

O

riginally from Helsingborg, Sweden, Maria moved to sunny Australia in 2006 where she fell in love with the quirky & weird down under style of life. A student of design, art, print-making and textile/ fashion design in Sydney, Maria now works as a designer for The Bare Road & Children Of The Tribe. She also started a wetsuit brand called ATMOSEA, based in Byron. Her first memories of the Byron surf culture are pleasant ones as she tested our healing waters following a break up in Sydney “I was surfing at the pass for the first time and another gurfer (Loz) paddled up to me and said, 'You look happy wanna hang out after the surf?' I was amazed by how open and great the vibe was. I quickly got a little posse of gurfer friends and we were running amuck both in the water and on land, putting on art shows and surfing our brains out.”

MOTIVATED "EVERY DAY I AM F SURFERS

BY THE WAVES O TER.” I SEE IN THE WA

54 www.byronlife.com.au

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE BEACH IN BYRON? Belongil is my favourite beach for many reasons, it’s close to my house, dog friendly, there are waves and it has some sort of mystical vibe.

I love rocking up at Belongil in the misty winter mornings with my little gurf dog, there’s always dolphins playing in the waves and it can be fun on small & big surf, fast breaking rights and lefts.

HOW DID ATMOSEA COME ABOUT AND WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF ENTERING THE SURF INDUSTRY. I started doing this like an art project, THE SURFING ALIEN. It was an assessment task for my studies. I created a high cut neoprene fashion piece. It had space shoulder pads, barnacles and a hood. I’ve always enjoyed being creative. After making the alien suit I was hooked and wanted more. This is when Atmosea was born! I wanted to create a surf/swimwear label that was different to the rest. Atmosea is mermaid punk fashion you can surf in. I don't feel that I need to look for motivation as it comes naturally. My brand encompasses my lifestyle and I enjoy working in the industry.

Every day I am motivated by the waves of surfers I see in the water.

My next step will be to make Atmosea a lifestyle platform that is community-based. It will be a combination of creative surf trips and fun surf comps that celebrate and promote rad girl surfers and their passion to inspire other girls.

The main challenges are trying to find the perfect balance of functionality and design. Like I said before the customer has to feel and look good in the product. Atmosea is made for all women. All the models I use are different shapes and sizes to ensure the product is the best fit for the women of today. Did I mention that all the girls that I use in the photo shoots ACTUALLY SURF! That is something really important to me and the authenticity Atmosea.

WHAT MAKES YOUR WETSUITS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER MAINSTREAM BRANDS AND IS IT COOL SEEING YOUR FRIENDS ALL WEARING YOUR SUITS IN THE SURF? I want Atmosea to make every gurfer feel confident in the water. I always put functionality first when I create a new product. Without functionality what is the point of producing a product?

Next, is to make sure the customer feels good in the product. Surfing and paddling out the back can be a challenge and we should be proud of our body and its ability to do this. That’s why it’s important to make sure the product looks good so you can shine. Atmosea is influenced by the galaxy and all that is out of this world.

www.byronlife.com.au 55

SURFSALT&SAND

Meet

n o t x a Joel P H

e’s stomped mega air at J-Bay, represented Australia at a remote archipelago off the coast of Portugal and surfed monster swell in Hawaii, and this talented teen is just getting started. Despite his already impressive haul of achievements, Joel Paxton is a down-to-earth guy who just loves spending time on the water.

Joel was born and bred into surfing. His parents owned a surf shop in Merewether, Newcastle. He lived close to the beach and was in the water as early as he can remember, surfing with his Dad. He lived and breathed the ocean, but when his family moved to Byron Bay when he was eight, Joel’s spark for surfing really ignited.

“The water was warm, the Pass was always good, I was hooked,” he said.

A natural on the board, Joel’s greatest achievement to date came last year, when he represented Australia in the ISA World Junior Titles in The Azores.

“We ended up placing second, behind France. It was a big year and I had put a lot of time and effort into getting there. I had a lot of help from some really awesome people who made it all possible,” he said.

His scariest moment on the water happened in Hawaii, but despite a few unnerving moments, Joel brushes them off and calls them learningcurves.

“This year will be my seventh season in Hawaii and I’ve developed a lot of respect for the breaks. I was out Haleiwa which is a right hander that packs a lot of punch and is very easy to get caught inside. It was a solid eight foot or so and I had just paddled for a wave and missed it, I turned around to what was a pretty big set and it got me right on the head.

“I got absolutely rag-dolled under water and had no air left. I remember trying to swim up and I couldn’t go further, it was all foam and I just took a breath, more so of foam than air, when the second set hit me unexpectedly. Back under I went and copped another beating. I barely got a breath in and I was pretty scared at this point and thought I might drown.

I was pretty relieved to be back on the beach after.”

Nickname: Packo WHERE DO YOU SURF LOCALLY? “Normally I like to surf by myself or just with a friend, either at Suffolk or Broken. I tend to avoid crowds around home. I also drive up and down the coast a fair bit, 40 minutes north or south there are some pretty good uncrowded spots.”

WHAT IS IT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT HITTING THE WAVES? “It makes me happy. There are so many different aspects to it, that no matter what way you look at it, you can always enjoy and appreciate the moment.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO SURF? “I really want to surf Cloud Break one day, hopefully I will get there soon!”

WHICH PRO-SURFER DO YOU ADMIRE MOST? “I like a lot of different pro-surfers for different reasons, but at the moment it would have to be Dane Reynolds, watching his surf clips amp me up to go surf.”

56 www.byronlife.com.au

Words of Surfing Wisdom

MEET WAPU

the Senior Coach at Mojosurf

I believe I have the best job in the world! To be able to spread the gospel of surfing and share my knowledge of what I’ve learned is a privilege. I’m so proud to be a part of this team of athletes, we take the safety of our students very seriously and it’s all about great teamwork.

Tell us a bit about your surfing philosophy:

What do you love most about the ocean and surfing culture?

To truly feel a connection with the ocean you must give your soul and spirit to her and get as close as possible. Take it to the edge and step out of your comfort zone. Be in harmony with nature. Only then you can truly feel the magic.

I truly feel blessed that I’ve been fortunate enough to spend my whole life around the ocean. I spent 8 years traveling up and down the east coast in my truck with my dog surfing some amazing waves and meetings some incredible people.

During this time I was employed as When did you first start surfing? a sales rep for my family business which took me over to Tassie twice I was introduced to surfing at a really young age because my dad was a surfer and up as far north as Noosa. I would camp at different surf breaks each back in the sixties. As a young bloke I night and explore the coastline. It can recall hanging out on the beach was life changing. watching him. I believe at that point I made some type of connection and fell What are your words of surfing in love with the ocean. wisdom?

Who or what inspires you as a surfer?

My mum loved the ocean and taught all her kids to respect it. She would always be in the water whenever we were at the beach, ensuring we had good water safety and became confident swimmers.

You can surf whether you stand up, kneel or lie down. Whether you are rich, poor, strong, or weak, big or little. The ocean does not discriminate. You are free.

VALID FOR OCT- NOV 2017. CHOICE OF ANY WRAP OR ROLL WITH SURF LESSON PURCHASE. CHOICE OF ANY SMALL COFFEE WITH WRAP/ROLL PURCHASE

www.byronlife.com.au 57

n o d r o w t e e r t the s

ow... n k y a m you from those

If someone co uld give you the answer to any unsolved question, wh at would you ask and why?

What will Byron Bay look like in another 50 years time?

Will humanity ever have equality?

Tahni Holmes

Greg Clark

What is the nature of consciousness?

Dominic Spreckley

SALES CONSULTANT ELDERS REAL ESTATE

ACCOUNTANT THE OFFICE... ACCOUNTANTS

Just to preface this, my first impulse was to ask for next week’s winning lotto numbers! But at the risk of sounding a little “out there”, I would love to have the answer to the following question:

“While I am naturally curious in the answers to the big questions like cancer and the afterlife, being a born and bred Byron Bay local and in keeping with the theme of ‘then and now’, my question would be to ask “What will Byron Bay look like in another 50 years time?”.

“What is the nature of consciousness” Why? Well that’s another question: Are we simply a complex makeup of biochemical systems with the illusion of being a self-aware individual being, separate from the rest of the universe? Or is that part of us that is not our thoughts and not our feelings…. that simple awareness of “I”, actually something?

And if so where does that something come from?

And even more importantly where does it go once our body turns to dust?

Having seen the changes from being a meatworks town through to the surfing culture to today’s hipster, artistic, world renowned tourist destination, I wonder what the future Byron Bay will look like.

Will we see a car free town, like many popular European tourist towns or even driverless cars, giving more respect to cyclists.

The days of affordable housing are long gone, I just hope we can preserve some of the towns icons, especially the beautiful vibe.”

contents

So there you have my question, perhaps the oldest one humanity has been asking……. That said, I’d be happy with next week’s lotto numbers too!

STUDENT SAE Will humanity ever have equality? An eternal question asked by so many that essentially affects everyone?

Will the wars stop? Will my friend be able to marry who he wants? Will my family and friends stop being treated as less-than just because of their skin colour? Will people stop being denied their basic human rights because of the land they come from and the God they worship?

It is such an ever present topic, one that is always on my mind and I don’t know if the answer would be the one that I want.

However I hope if the answer was not what I wanted that myself and others would try every day, even in the smallest way to bridge these gaps in humanity and help it work towards a more equal and accepting world.

START A CAMPAIGN IN THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE AND RECEIVE A FREE FULL-PAGE FEATURE ARTICLE ABOUT YOU! The deal: Sign-up to a half-page ad placement for three issues we will give you a full-page Personality Profile valued at $1695 + gst as a gift!

This includes hair and make-up for one person, a themed photo shoot and journalist write-up.

Call Nik for further details:

0429 035 046

SOCIALFLY

meet the Chef Darren Chef at Sun Bistro

B

eing a chef has taken Darren on some amazing cooking adventures including cooking for the Queensland Cricket Team, three Australian Primeministers and many sporting stars.

He has also cooked on national television!

What would you recommend from the menu at Sun Bistro?

Definitely the pork belly.

What is a cooking secret you would like to share with our readers?

Always cook from your heart.

What is your philosophy regarding food?

Darren has spent the last 34 years living in Queensland and has only just moved to the area. He tells us he has maroon blood, but he asks us not to hold that against him!

He started working at the newly established family friendly Sun Bistro just six weeks ago and loves serving up fresh, creative meals for his customers.

You never stop learning.

Who inspired you to become a chef?

At 16 my father said; “you are not sitting around here all summer, I have found you an apprenticeship as a chef,” thanks Dad! I didn’t really want to be a chef, but I found I was pretty good at it, and I have never been out of work.

Who is your favorite celebrity chef and why?

I hate most of them, but I like to watch Ramsey’s Kitchen Nightmare’s.

I think Ramsey is a pretty good business man, and he doesn’t mix his words.

Tell us about your most memorable cooking disaster: I don’t really have one, I’m a great planner and organizer, so things rarely go wrong.

If they do, they can be fixed pretty quickly.

s g n i d ed nts Wand Eve

SPECIALISING IN

18 YEARS INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

GREAT PRICES, EXCLUSIVE RANGING, DELIVERY, TASTINGS, SALE AND RETURN*

PERSONALISED PACKAGES TO SUIT ANY BUDGET.

- Contact Julz and his friendly team at The Sun Bistro Bottle Shop to arrange your next event.

61 Bayshore Drive Byron Bay 2481

p. 02 6685 6500 w. thesunbistro.com

Bottle Shop

e: enquiries@thesunbistro.com *conditions apply

PARTY TIME AT MISS MARGARITA **NEW** Late Night Exclusive Hire at Miss Margarita Mexican Cantina 10:45PM until 2:30AM

Enjoy Byron’s favourite restaurant venue all to yourself!

Targa on Marvell st. A rustic space serving modern European food Open 7 days for breakfast & lunch Share plates from 2:30 & dinner from 5:30 Tues to Saturdays Aperitivo “Happy Hour” Afternoons $12 Cocktails, $8 wines, $7 Beers Tues - Sat 4-6pm & Sundays 1.30-2.30

Events at Targa Specialising in intimate events and pre and post wedding get-togethers. Whether a champagne breakfast, family dinner, sunset cocktails and canapes, charity luncheons, conference event or birthday celebration, our flexible menu options cater to all.

56 www.byronlife.com.au

11 Marvell St, Byron Bay (02) 6680 9960 targabyronbay.com targabyronbay@gmail.com

SOCIALFLY

meet the Bartender Julian Berger Bartender at The Mez Club Julian has lived in a big city his entire life so the small town vibe of Byron is a welcome change for him. He loves running into familiar faces everywhere he goes and is always up for a surf.

W

hen it comes to serving drinks he loves satisfying an uncertain customer. If a customer looks lost, he can ask a couple of questions about their tastes and guide them to the perfect beverage on the menu. If you don’t believe us, head down to The Mez Bar and ask him to find your perfect drink!

What is the secret to making the cocktail?

Stir! It sounds simple, but stirring really is the secret to making the best cocktails.

Which cocktail would you recommend people try at the Mez Club?

Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Julian has learnt his

My personal favourite is the Negronis; a cocktail made of one part gin, one part vermouth rosso, and one part Campari, garnished with orange peel. We just updated our menu to include two new variations and my favourite is The Smoky Negroni, using mezcal instead of gin. Simple and delicious.

Tell us your favourite bartending story about yourself or a customer.

of Vancouver’s pubs, clubs and

Here’s the first thing that comes to mind. Tips are a huge part of the job back home in Canada. We make below minimum wage and rely on them for our income. I remember closing one crazy night and found a girl’s high heel shoe in the tip jar. Must have been a wild night!

lounges. He loves getting paid

Have you ever served a famous person?

to entertain and considers his

Yeah, the crew from a television show being filmed in Vancouver rented our cocktail lounge for their premiere. My coworkers kept mentioning “Channing Tatum” and referring to this dude who vaguely resembled him, just with a few extra pounds. I thought they were joking until after a couple hours I finally broke and asked him. It turns out my coworkers were right! It was Channing Tatum. He is a super nice dude, always cleared the crowd when I tried to walk through with my hands full. He drinks Grey Goose martinis with a lemon twist.

trade from the finest selection

cocktails little pieces of liquid art, or alchemy.

W HAT’S NEW AT T HE MEZ C L U B ?

NOW OPEN MONDAY FROM 5PM

new late night drink s pecials from 9pm thu rsday- saturday

v o dk a l i m e s o d a 6 p in k l y c he e m art i ni 12 es p res s o m art i ni 12 cl a s s i c ne g ro ni 12

MELBOURNE CUP TUESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 2017

CHRISTMAS STAFF PARTIES BOOK NOW!

www.byronlife.com.au 57

SOCIALFLY

meet the Chef Leilani Toivanen Chef at Foxy Luu’s Originally from the outskirts of Melbourne, near the Yarra Valley, Leilani has always enjoyed cooking for her family.

As an adult she travelled the world tasting the different flavours and drawing inspiration from them. She has also lived in Spain and the USA and more recently spent five years working on private super yachts where she was able to experiment with limitless budgets and ingredients.

Leilani and her partner, Utku, now call Byron Bay their home and love being close to nature with access to farmers markets and a crowd of people who deeply care about the food they eat. This year they have had two babies, a new business and a beautiful baby boy.

When they’re not working the couple love spending the weekend travelling and hiking near or far, tasting a plethora of food and connecting with the authentic people of that area.

When Leilani Toivanen made D.I.Y.

Despite not being from Asian decent themselves, Leilani and Utku love staying true to a cuisine and presenting their own interpretation of it. They also have a Bondi restaurant called Sefa Kitchen that specialises in Middle Eastern cuisine.

parents when she was a kid, she

Their philosophy is to offer a unique dining experience yet stay away from being pretentious which is why they love the Asian street food concept they bring to Foxy Luus.

breakfast in bed menus for her dreamt about running her own restaurant one day.

What was the inspiration behind your restaurant and what makes it so unique?

The back streets of Asia where it is grungy and chaotic yet full of surprises and offers tastiest bites served from food carts. During the day, it is grab and go in the hustle and bustle of the town. In the evening the same spot can be a key part of the red light district and entertainment.

Tell us a little about the food on your menu and what is your favourite item?

We combine the best street bites from all the different corners of Asia.

Taiwanese bao sandwiches, Chinese dumplings, Thai and Indonesian salads and soups, Vietnamese paper rolls.

My taste buds go for a ride with the bbq pork bao while my immune system gets its fix with the bone broth soups.

Tell us a funny cooking story: Working on private yachts introduced me to a new level of abundance.

One lunch onboard in the middle of the Bahamas, I was making a lobster surf and turf (with sweet potato fries) for the guests. The owner’s son wanted ketchup for the fries, so we took the helicopter to the nearest town to get him some

z z u b e e f f o c A

dam was raised on the Central Coast of NSW and has always lived close to the beach. When he was younger he ran a café with his mum for six years and first came to Byron to live 13 years ago. During this time he also worked at The Pass but left to chase the big waves of Margaret River in Western Australia in his trusty 1974 Kombi.

As a keen surfer, Adam expresses his love of the ocean through his art and photography.

He studied at university for ten years learning about children before having three beautiful children of his own who he loves to take on adventures all around the shire.

Where do you work and what is so special about the coffee there?

I work at the Pass Cafe, and the coffee is so special because the barista has the best view of any in Australia; whales, dolphins and surfers, we’re living the dream!

What do you love most about being a barista?

The people. Everybody’s always happy to see me, because I am about to wake them up, and I do whatever it takes to get their day started right.

SOCIALFLY

What do you believe is the secret of a perfect coffee?

Love and passion for perfection.

There are a hundred different factors that go into making a good coffee and I work hard to achieve all of them. I find the mechanics of a good extraction comes down to pure scientific knowledge, but equally, it is about the barista’s feel and flow.

What is the funniest moment you have experienced as a barista?

I’d have to say when I had a Cafe with my mother in my younger days. I agreed to a photoshoot for a well-known Sydney photographer for an exhibition called ‘Boys to Men’. I agreed to do the photoshoot naked but for a small apron at the front. We put black plastic sheeting on the café windows before starting, but did a rough job so people could still see through. I began strutting around our cafe making coffee and being very, well, cheeky!

When, suddenly I noticed a small crowd had gathered outside and were pointing and laughing.

Every 2nd sunday of the month @ beachotelbyronbay last saturday of the month @byronbaybrewery

What’s the best pick up line to use on a barista?

My coffee is not quite hot enough, but you’re really steaming me up!

E H T social fly

FLYING TRAPEZE AND CIRCUS FITNESS CLASSES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Circus Arts will take kids, teens and adults on the adventure of their lives with amazing high flying trapeze and circus fitness classes during term & school holidays.

A unique indoor venue boasts over 900m² of space full of professional equipment from 10m high flying trapeze rig, silks, various size trampolines, 10m long tumble track, tight wire, static trapeze to climbing wall and more.

Kids aged 5-15 years can learn a range of exciting circus skills and experience a swing on the trapeze in a popular full and half day holiday programs.

Specialised teens program offers an awesome mix of activities including rock climbing, parkour and a 1.5 hour flying trapeze class. Extremely popular new classes Parkour and JUMP! are available for both kids and teens throughout term and school holidays.

For adults there are Handstand & Acrobatics classes, Aerials, Circus Fit and of course flying trapeze classes are on daily for anyone aged 5+.

Little ones will have fun at Play Space with full size jumping castle and Kinder Circus classes that are on daily.

Visit www.circusarts.com.au for more details or to book online.

@thebeetbyronbay

64 www.byronlifemag.com

Shop 6 Woolworths Plaza, Jonson Street p: (02) 6685 6520 | e: hello@thebeet.com.au www.thebeet.com.au

www.byronlifemag.com 65

E H T social fly 11-12 NOVEMBER 15 OCTOBER BYRON BAY FILM FESTIVAL Now in its 11th year, BBFF spans across ten days in four venues, featuring over 175 independent films, and attracting filmmakers and film-lovers from all over the world; it is the Australia’s most loved regional film festival.

Not just a film festival, it showcases VR experiences, Augmented Reality Art Exhibitions, Filmmakers Breakfast, Music Video Party, and much more.

Opening Night Red Carpet Gala Event - Friday 6 October, Byron Community Theatre - Feature Film ‘Freedom to Marry’ a film celebrating love and equality.

Closing Party Saturday 14 October, Byron Community Theatre, Feature Film ‘Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked America’ For more information and tickets visit the website: www.bbff.com.au Stay connected: Facebook @byronbayfilmfestival // Instagram @byronbayfilmfestival #BBFF2017 #ByronBayFilmFestival #CinemafortheSenses

3 NOVEMBER Popped Creative presents HUSTLE. Prepare to be inspired.

On Friday 3 November Byron Bay’s premier events agency Popped Creative returns with the first of a four-part series designed to connect, inspire and entertain the local community: HUSTLE. Popped Creative’s Creative Director Abbie Gibson says “HUSTLE. was created as an opportunity for the creative industries community and local businesses in Byron Bay and surrounds to share ideas and professional experiences - A place to celebrate those people creating influential and inspiring projects which contribute positively to our growing economy”.

BYRON BAY GUITAR FESTIVAL The Byron Bay Guitar Festival presented

by Byron Music will be held from November 11-12 at the Byron Bay Brewery. There will feature over 35 live performances on two stages from some of Australia’s best guitarists - including Kevin Borich, Phil Emmanuel, Jeff Lang, Fiona Boyes and Steve Edmonds (See full attached lineup)! The venue will be transformed into a guitarists heaven where the Byron Music Carpark Markets will take over and showcase the best guitars and gear alongside our long list of sponsors and partners - including Fender, Yamaha, Ernie Ball, Cort and local guitar builders.

Come along to hear from some of the best in the biz talk about their biggest challenges and successes; the make or breaks that have paved the way to their success today.

There will be a huge list of other activities including seminars and presentations in the Pighouse Flicks presented by our artists and major sponsors, live painting, carpark performances from Byron Music School students, vintage guitar displays and the Ultimate Guitarist Raffle - worth over $10,000 - with all proceeds of the raffle going to our charitable partners MMAD & BUDDI.

For more information and discounted early bird tickets visit www.poppedcreative.com

Please view our website for more information and tickets at www.byronbayguitarfestival.com

burgers | wraps | salads sushi | coffee freshly made in Lennox Head every day 3/62 Ballina Street Lennox Head

66 www.byronlifemag.com

6687 7129

ion Ment for d this a ff $5 o

call 02 66 809 555

www.capebyronkayaks.com

Festivals Australia

www.byronlifemag.com 67

E H T social fly WIN FALLS FESTIVAL TICKETS AT SAE BYRON’S OC-TOUR-BER! Want to kick-start your creative career? Book a tour this October or November to find out how SAE Creative Media Institute can help you reach your potential in the industries that are moving and shaking the future.

PLUS go in the draw to WIN a double pass to Falls Festival Byron Bay! Book a tour today: sae.edu.au/book-a-tour Want to know more? On Thurs, 30th November, join SAE Byron for Info Night. Over three hours spend time touring and speaking with our experienced team, lecturers and students about the path to gaining a Bachelor, Diploma or Certificate in Animation, Audio, Film, Design, Games.

BYRON BAY CAMPUS - EWINGSDALE RD. At SAE, you’ll learn the skills you need to create your future in Creative Media. With Fee-Help* available on all Bachelor, Associate Degree and Diploma courses, you can learn what you love and live it - sooner. Discover how at Info Night.

Register today - Your class starts February.

REGISTER TO ATTEND - sae.edu.au/events | 1800 723 338 *For full details on Fee-Help please visit sae.edu.au 68 www.byronlifemag.com

BYR - ByronLife - Hlfpg - 212x142.5-infonight_v1.indd 1

20/9/17 3:43 pm

www.byronlifemag.com 69

The Pool Professionals The days are getting longer, the sun’s shining brighter and before you know it, your pool will become your daily sanctuary to beat the heat.

W

hether your pool is for your own private use, you have friends who like to come over for a dip or your pool is part of a commercial rental, pool maintenance is vital to protect the health and wellbeing of those who use it. Water requires frequent maintenance to remain clean and healthy, and the maintenance needs of hot water in a spa or hot tub differ again.

Instead of second-guessing your pool’s safety, leave it up to the professionals.

The Pool Professionals are a locally-owned Byron Bay business, specialising in pool cleaning and maintenance to ensure your investment operates to its full potential. The business was established in 1996 and has an experienced crew of pool professionals working with Nick, most who have had five to ten years in the industry.

“With the rising popularity of Air BnB and other properties providing shortterm rentals, it’s crucial to have pool and spa water tested and treated in-between guests. Our area of specialty is to remove that worry from the owners by

ensuring the water is sanitized and balanced,” Nick said.

After outgrowing their retail space, Nick made the decision to close their retail store to focus solely on the mobile service they are famous for.

“The space wasn’t suitable and I wanted to drive the direction of the business back to what we specialise in, which is our mobile cleaning and maintenance services. We provide options for people wanting to get their pool in top shape before an event and can maintain pools while people are on holiday. We just ask for as much notice as possible for a booking as we are leading into the busy season,” Nick said.

If your electricity bills are skyrocketing and you haven’t thought about your pump in a few years, talk to Nick about how a pump upgrade can save upward of $700 per year in energy costs.

“We are an alliance partner with Astral Pool, providing the latest technology in variable-speed pumps. If your old pool pump is a singlespeed, it means it’s probably working too hard when it’s not needed and potentially not hard enough when there is a lot of activity. A variablespeed ensures water is being treated as needed, which is great for the environment and the back pocket,” Nick said.

Get in early before the silly season gets underway and leave your pool maintenance to the professionals.

Call (02) 6680 9910 or book online at poolprofessionals.com.au.

70 www.byronlife.com.au

pr e

POOL REPAIRS | CARETAKER PACKAGE PEACE-OF-MIND POOL SERVICE | VACATION CARE PACKAGE VALET POOL SERVICE | NEIGHBOURHOOD DEAL

WE PROVIDE A RANGE OF TAILORED POOL CARE PACKAGES TO SUIT EVERY POOL OR SPA OWNER HOLIDAY RENTALS AND CHECK IN SERVICES ARE OUR SPECIALTY

ECO FRIENDLY

When it comes to pool maintenance. We have compiled a list of products we recommend to save you money and in turn help save the environment. From Pool Blankets, Solar Heating to eco-friendly pool pumps, we can tailor a solution for your pool.

BOOK ONLINE

You can book your pool cleaning service right from our website.

Whether it be a general pool service or a more complex solution, why wait, pool cleaning Byron Bay, Ballina, Mullumbimby and Ocean Shores couldn’t be easier to organise!

www.byronlife.com.au 71

P: 0427 204 020 | E: INFO@POOLPROFESSIONALS.COM.AU | W: POOLPROFESSIONALS.COM.AU