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A JOURNEY TO THE BRINK AND BACK With Local Street Artist Nitsua
DO EVERY T HING. DO NOT HING. That’s the Beauty of Bangalow
SURF, SALT & SAND
The Art of Surfing with Brett Munro Pro Surfer Gatien Delahaye Rising Star Elise Trigger
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Wedding Feature GRAND SLAMS AND GOLD MEDALS
Meet 88 Year Old Tennis Legend Margaret Fisher
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MIND, BODY AND SOUL
Leave Your Ego at the Door Finding Your Soul Mate Later in Life
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contents
pg 28
pg 44
pg 20
pg 56
pg 50
pg 60
10 COMMUNITY UNITY
27 MEET THE VETS
44 MIND, BODY & SOUL
10 RACHAEL TORISE BAY FM
28 MEET THE AGENT
44 MAKEOVER
12 DO MORE WITH A DAFFODIL
14 KILLING WEEDS WITHOUT KILLING THE EARTH
16 A NEW APPROACH TO PROBLEM-SOLVING AT MULLUM HIGH
18 GRAND SLAMS AND GOLD MEDALS MARGARET FISHER
22 MEET THE LOCALS
24 ENNISMORE FIELD
25 THE RUG SHOP
A JOURNEY TO THE BRINK AND BACK WITH LOCAL STREET ARTIST NITSUA
48 LEAVE YOUR EGO AT THE DOOR 50 CHOC INDULGENCE WITHOUT THE GUILT
36 WEDDING FEATURE
52 HOME & GARDEN
36 TOP TIPS AND TRENDS
53 GARDENING IN THE SHADE
38 GRACE LOVES LACE
54 TO AUCTION OR NOT TO AUCTION?
40 VENUES ON THE MENU
42 BREAK FROM TRADITION AND ELOPE
55 RENOVATING? FIND OUT HOW A MORTGAGE BROKER CAN HELP
20 BANGALOW FEATURE
46 HAVING FUN COULD BE THE SECRET TO LONG-TERM WEIGHT LOSS
30 COVER STORY
56 PROPERTY REVIEW
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: Amanda Wright / editor@byronlifemag.com / 0428697421 General Manager: Rachael Thackray / rachael@byronlifemag.com / 0417 267 373 Production: Rebecca Douthwaite / Marc Tarnate / Norina Jane Sales Manager: Lisa Richards / lisa@byronlifemag.com / 0429 035 046 Accounts Manager: Christine Forest Writers: Amanda Wright / Rachael Thackray / Ian Browne / Maree Curran Photography: Raegan Glazner RG PHOTO INC./ 0474 272 388 / raeganglaznerphotoinc.com
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pg 63
pg 38 58 SURF SALT & SAND 59 THE ART OF SURFING WITH BRETT MUNRO 60 WORLD SURF LEAGUE GATIEN DELAHAYE
62 ELISE TRIGGER
63 SURF BETTER AND INJURY FREE EVOLVE PHYSIO & PILATES 65 SOCIAL FLY
65 SHORT COURSES WITH BYRON COMMUNITY COLLEGES
66 SPLENDOUR IN THE PARK
67 BYRON WRITERS FESTIVAL
68 MEET FREAK-FOLK ‘VIOLA GYPSY’ ANNI M FABLES
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om Note fr
the
r o t i Ed
And they lived happily ever after.
T
he Royal Wedding. By now, you’re probably sick of hearing about it, from the drama of Markle’s father to the scathing criticism of Victoria Beckham’s facial expressions, unless you’ve been living under a rock it will have dominated your ears and eyes. But for what it’s worth, here are my two cents. Did I watch it? Yes. Because, regardless of whether we agree or disagree with the lavish price tag, whether we have respect or contempt for the royal family, it was undeniably a significant event in history. Maybe I have a child-like view on the world, I get overly excited at the small things and love to see the positive in everything, so the one thing I disliked about the royal wedding was all the negativity which emerged in the aftermath. The first, a flood of ‘what did you think about the dress?’ posts which swamped my Facebook timeline. Honestly, who cares. She could have worn a sack and looked beautiful. I was more interested in looking at the pure happiness in her eyes and the smile
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on her face that what she wore; which was, shock-horror, a white dress. The criticism of the fleeting glances we had of the Queen and Prince Philip during the ceremony. For goodness sake, they are both in their nineties! I think it is remarkable they managed to last through the Reverend’s rant without falling asleep. I was just happy to witness two people, in love, getting married. Isn’t that what a wedding should be about? In this edition of Byron Life Magazine, we take a look at some of the best places in the Shire to tie the knot in our own wedding special. Our destination in focus is beautiful Bangalow, where country charm and sophistication come together where many of us love to live. We have a great blend of salt-loving surfers and life savers in The Froth, plus we introduce our new sales account manager, Lisa. Let a little love into your heart, the world is a better place when we choose to see the good in every situation.
Editor’s Top 3 Picks 1 Ginterviewing rand Slams 88-year-old and Gold Medals. I had the absolute pleasure of Margaret Fisher. This outstanding lady is
a shining example of what means to grow old bold. Her remarkable life includes playing tennis for Australia at Wimbledon, to now where she successfully became a double world-champion in the 85-years-and-over age group. Incredible and inspirational are two words I would use to describe this wonderful woman. See Page 18
2 Psomeone ro Surfertouring – Gatien Delahaye. It’s not every day you get to chat with in the World Surf League, but when we found out
this young talent was dating a local Byron Bay girl, we had to find out more! What we discovered is that not only is he one of the most talented 21-year-olds to surf, but he is absolutely humble, polite and charming. We can’t wait to see him back in the Bay soon. See page 60
3 Falmost rom Snowy Slopes to Surf and Sunshine. In a community where everyone surfs, it was amazing to find a local who once
made a living from carving up snowy slopes! Steve Scott spent a large part of his life as a professional skier and ski instructor before starting a well-known ski apparel line with a mate. This legend’s story was another remarkable one to tell. See Page 17
meetLisa Richards POTTSVILLE’S POCKET-ROCKET
S
ay a warm bonjour or a hearty Guten Tag to Byron Life Magazine’s newest member, Lisa Richards. Our multitalented Aussie speaks both French and German and joins us as our sales account manager after a vast corporate background in business and sales. Lisa studied a Bachelor of Arts at university in Sydney, majoring in both French and German. She received a scholarship to study abroad and spent a year at university in Germany, while also working in a puzzle factory part-time. Her multi-national and linguistical talents lined her up for a varied career, including selling high-end Australian-made jewellery to international clients and as a business development manager for BridgeClimb Sydney where she strengthened markets from the UK, Europe and Asia. Fun fact: Lisa has climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge nine times, one time being at the summit in a hail storm! She moved to the Northern Rivers from Sydney’s Northern Beaches with her husband, Andy, and their two children, Zack (7) and Scarlett (3). The couple owned a cake shop as Lisa’s husband is a talented pasty chef who trained in London.
FUN FACT: L isa’s husband, Andy, once baked for the Pope! The couple moved to Pottsville, attracted to the region for its laidback lifestyle where they could raise their young family. “I wanted my children to grow up somewhere near the beach as I did in Sydney but in a less hectic area, where kids can be kids, be active and enjoy the simple things in life. “Zack is very much into his mixed martial arts and Scarlett loves her dolls as much as she loves trucks! With playdates, swimming lessons, martial arts training and yoga for myself, these things keep us busy outside of work hours.” Lisa and Andy set up a unique business, Bin There Cleaned That; servicing from the southern Gold Coast to Ballina and surrounding areas; cleaning, deodorising and drying wheelie and industrial bins. “The business concept came from identifying a need in the area due to the climate we live in; humid weather means smelly, dirt and, unhygienic bins, and it also being a job that many do not want to do themselves,” Lisa said.
Q&A WITH LISA If someone were to play you in a movie, who would you want it to be? “Margot Robbie as she is stunning, but I think Bridget Jones would be a more realistic casting of my true character.”
Where is the most interesting place you’ve ever visited? “I am finding it hard to decide between Varanasi in India, as it is such a spiritual place or Jaisalmer, due to the arid desert landscapes.”
What is on your bucket-list? “I would love to visit Machu Picchu one day.”
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COMMUNITYUNITY
Rachael Torise Bay FM
A
woman with many names who wears many hats, Rachael Torise is a true community champion. A radio presenter for Bay FM, Rach has a particular passion for engaging with elderly, inspiring indigenous youth and providing a platform for women to be heard. She is Bay FM’s Vice President as well as its Community Access Coordinator and presents Belly Mondays from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. She is also one of the most talented vinyl DJ’s on the Northern Coast. Of Samoan ancestry, Rachael was born in Auckland, New Zealand. Immediately she made her mark on the world, Rachael was the longest baby ever to be born in Howick’s National Women’s Hospital due to her long feet! Although she adored New Zealand’s beauty, she was never exposed to her Samoan heritage and felt as though her childhood was spent as a confused introvert, wondering where her thoughts and feelings came from. Her voice was discovered once she found community radio. After spending 10 years in London, she moved to Sydney in 2000 and worked for BondiFM. She quickly fell in love with the sound and genuine feel of community radio. She accompanied her best friend, DJ Jackie Shan, to her first ever radio show in 2003 for moral support. “Shan turned to me at the end and clearly stated she never wanted to do it again, unlike me she hadn’t enjoyed the experience at all and suggested I take it on instead. Without hesitation i agreed and presented the Sista Show the very next week and for the next six years, spinning vinyl and learning the art of radio as i went along, without any training,” Rachael said. She moved to Byron and has been with Bay FM since 2009.
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In her roll as the Community Access Coordinator, you’ll see Rachael with a microphone at events and markets, gathering interviews for her food show and bringing the voices of the community to the airwaves.
production as well as a radio room to learn interview and editing skills.”
When she’s not working, Rachael has an eclectic zest for life; collecting and playing records with other vinyl addicts, whipping up delicious organic foods and drinks, climbing volcanoes, surfing waves, yoga, adventures and explorations in nature and recording conversations with strangers.
In early 2014 i was selected as one of twenty women in Australia to participate in a project set up by the CMTO (Community Media Training Organisation) looking for ideas to get more women involved in community radio. My idea was to offer free DJ lessons to women of all ages, teaching them new technical skills in a fun environment, whilst finding ways to support and involve them in community radio. This fast became very successful and i was invited to the CBAA (Community Broadcast Association of Australia) National Conference at the end of 2014 to present my project. From there i started to write and receive grants for a variety of other projects under the banner of Community Access Coordinator. I focus on underrepresented minorities - youth, indigenous, women, elderly and disabled.
We sat down with Rachael to find out more about her work with women, the elderly and indigenous youth. What is the Collaborations Show? “Together with Leigh Roy and Sean Spencer, the Collaborations Show focuses on Australian Community Hip Hop. Organisations like One Vision Productions and Desert Pea Media have been tirelessly working on projects for years to connect at-risk youth to their culture and give them a platform to express their views and issues through workshops in high schools and remote communities. The programs culminate in the production of a hip-hop track and video and the Collaborations Show is where their music can be heard along with interviews from producers and youth involved.” Tell us about how youth can learn music production and interviewing skills? “A free open night is held weekly at One Vision Production HQ in Byron A&I Est where youth can learn everything from live music to electronic
Where did the inspiration Spin Sistas come from?
“Spinsistas has many spin-offs, last year was the She Sessions, a weekly open night at BayFM for women to learn the skills of interviewing, editing, producing, presenting and podcasting. DJ lessons are returning soon due to popular demand!” Tell us about the creation of ‘Radioldies.’ Radioldies, interviewing our elderly, has to be one of the most rewarding projects I’ve ever been part of. The wisdom, knowledge and incredibly moving stories held by these fascinating people are priceless. All they need is someone with the patience and passion to listen. And i have both!
COMMUNITYUNITY
“Most of my interviewees are in their 90’s with the oldest nudging 98. More people should take the time to visit the elderly, to give them the respect they deserve. My role is to collect enough of their stories to eventually present a one-hour show called ‘Radioldies.’ For now, they can be found as podcasts on the Chopsuey Roaming Radio Soundcloud page and the Radioldies FB page. Who is the most fascinating person you’ve interviewed for Radioldies? “Ninety-eight-year-old, Jilli Richardson. Jilli has had a fascinating life but it’s the way she tells her story that is most remarkable. So beautifully eloquent. A woman with an incredibly spiritual nature brought up in a time where women were not acknowledged for who they were but rather what purpose they served. Jilli’s life took a huge turn when her husband and father of their four
daughters died suddenly and left Jilli in a state of shock, disbelief and longing to search for the true meaning of life. She did this alone, leaving behind everyone she loved, only to be reunited with them some thirty years later. Jilli has one of the freshest and most endearing approaches to life and her words warm the depths of our own lost souls.” Your DJ alter-ego, Chopsuey, will we see her return? “I’ve recently taken a break from Chopsuey, a 7-year show on Friday nights from 6-8pm. I still DJ at various festival and chosen gatherings. Chopsuey means a little bit of everything, funk, soul, hip hop, rnb, afrobeat, boogaloo, remixes, soulful and cranking house and breaks, drum n bass, old skool; that’s what i do, mix it all up and pump it out with a whole lot of love!”
What is the Wonder Women project you’re working on? “It’s a grant-funded project where I select one inspiring woman per week to interview, producing a six to eight-minute radio edit which gets played on Fridays around 8 a.m. A full podcast will also be available to hear on the Wonder Women Facebook page or the Bay FM Facebook page. A quirky fact about Rachael is that she can write backwards in mirrored writing as easily and quickly as she can write forward! A strange but true fact you can ask her about the next time you see her out and about. As the sun sets at the end of the day, without a microphone in her hand, Rachael loves nothing more than to unwind in nature, in the back of her truck, staring out into the abyss of a breathtaking Byron view. www.byronlifemag.com 11
COMMUNITYUNITY
Susan Tsicalas, Jenny Moore, Lindy McCollum and Christina Mastoris
Do more with a daffodil “Every minute, every hour, every day. Cancer never rests, and for that reason, neither do we. And tomorrow, with your help, we'll start again.”
Did you know that Cancer Council is 95% community funded? That means that the thousands of people locally and across Australia who are assisted by Cancer Council, rely on people like you, and me, to dig deep. Because life is precious, and often, there is little time to lose. Daffodil Day is Cancer Council’s largest annual fundraising drive, relying heavily on everyday people in our community to make a donation or purchase merchandise. Every dollar makes a difference.
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How does Cancer Council make a difference to people in our community affected by cancer? Funds raised from Daffodil Day helps to support Cancer Council’s research, prevention, advocacy and support programs. But also, support is offered locally in direct ways to assist those living with cancer. Locally, the Cancer Council operates support services such as; Transport to Treatment - which provides local eligible cancer patients access to subsidised transport to medical appointments.
Pro Bono Legal and Financial Program providing access to free legal and financial advice. Cancer Council Information Services - located in hospitals and treatment centres providing free information and support services. Cancer Council also have a strong focus on education to reduce the number of people with preventable cancer. Local prevention initiatives include; Eat It to Beat It – a program that is rolled out in local schools, helping families understand how eating the right amount of fruit and vegetables helps reduce cancer risk.
COMMUNITYUNITY
Daffodil Day Volunteers
Improve Your Long Game – in collaboration with participating golf clubs encouraging golfers to use sun protection. SunSmart - supporting primary schools, childcare centres and out of school hours care services across NSW to help minimise student and staff overexposure to UV radiation and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Healthy Sports Initiative - helps to create a healthy, cancer smart environment for junior cricket clubs. Tackling Tobacco – a program that aims to reduce smoking related harm amongst the most socio-economically disadvantaged groups in NSW. The Brunswick Valley Cancer Action Group was officially set up in 1995 and members have been associated with Daffodil Day each year since 1996. The group has 17 financial members along with generous support from friends and family to help with larger events such as Daffodil Day and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. Last year the group was also involved with Relay for Life and Dancing with the Stars events. As the group says, the more the merrier. The action group would welcome new members to help with their crusade to raise funds for Cancer Council. The commitment isn’t great but the resulting benefit for the community is. The group only holds approximately three meetings per year to organise events, so it’s not a big commitment to make a big difference in the lives of those living with cancer. The Brunswick Valley Cancer Action Group will be selling daffodils and merchandise in Mullumbimby at several locations as well as Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores and Billinudgel.
Nerida Dean Cancer Council Volunteer
To find out where your nearest Daffodil Day location will be, or to volunteer your time to help Cancer Council gather donations, contact Christina Mastoris, Cancer Council Northern NSW on 6639 1333, email christina.mastoris@nswcc.org.au or visit cancercouncil.org.au.
Daffodil Day 2018 | Friday 24th August www.cancercouncil.com.au
www.byronlifemag.com 13
COMMUNITYUNITY
Killing weeds without W
hile it is imperative to remove some weeds to preserve and protect our native flora, the use of toxic herbicides in some cases can do more harm than good.
Donald Drinkwater from the volunteer action group, Herbicide Free, talks to us about alternative methods of weed removal without the toxic consequences. “The evidence mounting on many herbicides in common use is growing with independent studies outside of the chemical companies own advertising of their product. Recent data on glyphosate use worldwide now stands at hundreds of millions of litres being poured onto our food, our soil and our whole environment. It is now detected in human blood in many countries,” he said. Donald was part of the founding group, Huonbrook Herbicide Free, whose immediate response followed contract sprayers who were seen hosing herbicide into drains. The group began vigorous roadside action to remove the target plant, Jump-seed, four years ago. “We meet on the odd weekend, usually at 7 a.m. when the traffic is low. With our mattocks we remove and bag the target plant. It is then removed to the Myocum tip for safe disposal. It’s an enjoyable three hours with many natural rewards. We observe at soil level, we watch in awe as black cockatoos tutor their young in the camphor laural trees. White headed pigeons feast on the camphor seed in season. We transplant rainforest seedlings growing on the roads verges and then follow our labour with a hearty breakfast,” he said. Donald’s passion for the environment stems from a Kiwi upbringing where he says nature was his teacher, tutor and advisor. He was a passionate voice against the French testing on the Mururoa Atoll, where for French Polynesia and many of its people, the fallout from decades of nuclear weapons testing is still being dealt with 50 years after the first test. “I witnessed as a child the use of DDT on NZ dairy farms and when it was banned as a child we saw birds return to nest in hedgerows. During the 60s the French were atmospheric testing on Mururoa, some regions in New Zealand experienced fallout over their grazing pastures which meant the milk was contaminated.
“In the early 1970s and with the tests still continuing in the Pacific, another New Zealander and I, organised demonstrations to the French Embassy in London where we presented our petitions against the testing in the Pacific. We presented to the then Prime Minister in Downing Street. A lesson on many levels for me. “It was later when the Rainbow Warrior was targeted in New Zealand that the French woke up that what they were doing was just not on anymore. “I also had two grandmothers who were passionate about what forest was left after New Zealand kept denuding the land, as dairy farming gathered pace,” Donald said.
Photos by: Herbicidefree.co at Wordpress
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Donald moved to Australia and has been a 40-year rate payer on hectares at Huonbrook. He believes the land had become severely degraded due to cattle over-grazing and herbicide use, which was gathering momentum in the 1970s. He left in the 1980s to work in palliative care in response to the AIDS epidemic and later returned to Huonbrook in 1994. This is when his serious work or regeneration began.
COMMUNITYUNITY
t killing the Earth “Fifty hectares are now emerging rain-forest. After the lantana is mulched a wide variety of rain forest trees begin to emerge. Our work is labor intensive during the cooler months with follow ups where we have mulched. Identifying what is emerging is extremely satisfying. We watch the birds, admire the odd bower of the satin bower bird and stand silent when the wrens and yellow breasted robins dart for the insects that our slashing disturb. “This land sees the beginnings of Coopers Creek and I enjoy being responsible for that whatever runs off this land is clean and does not contribute to the appalling state (F rating) at the outlet in Ballina,” Donald said. He is a firm believer that herbicide-free regeneration and herbicidefree food production has the potential to produce employment opportunities for youth while reducing the cost of food as we continue to transport fruit and vegetables into the Shire. “We can guardian the land and the entire environment with herbicidefree regeneration and herbicide-free food production. The Byron Shire has the potential to lead the way in clean, organic food production.” The crusade of providing chemical-free solutions is hard work, but very rewarding. “Physical activity in our beautiful environment is the way to better health and a way to really embrace our ecology at ground level,” Donald said. To find out more about Huonbrook Herbicide Free Active Volunteers and to volunteer your time in an effort to reduce herbicides, email chem.free.regen@gmail.com to become a part of the solution for future generations.
Booyong Rainforest Creation Pty Ltd Bush Regeneration Services - Native Rainforest Nursery Open By Appointment Only Landscape & Garden Design Specialists P: 0422152098 E: Shayne@booyongrc.com @Booyong Rainforest Creation
www.Booyongrc.com www.byronlifemag.com 15
LOCALSPORTINGSTAR
Reese Donnelly receiving the Karen Waine Memorial Trophy for Emerging Country Player for football.
Paving the path for
future champions
Mullumbimby High School State Swimming Championships Team
Australian’s – we love our sport! Our affection with bats and balls can be dated back to the early colonial period and over the decades our passion continued to grow. A career in sport isn't just a job, it's a rewarding lifestyle. And like any sport, the biggest rewards come with preparation and persistence.
The popularity of the program and demand to excel in popular sports has seen the program expand to include Sports Specialisation Programs. These are tailored to student demand as well as the expertise of the staff who are suitably qualified to provide additional opportunities to students.
Helping students who have a desire to succeed in sport is at the backbone of Mullumbimby High School’s Sporting Excellence Program. The aim of the program is to project students’ learning experiences beyond what is possible in normal timetabled PDHPE and sport lessons, whether the student is a talented athlete or a person who is interested in a career within sport.
“One of our staff, Adam Culbert, is the North Coast Rugby League Convener and Coach, and works with our Rugby League students. In addition, we run a futsal specialisation coached by Brian Hedge, who has exceptional experience in this field. The Futsal Sports Specialisation Program is open to all students at the school. These students are provided with quality coaching each week and have had the opportunity to compete in a range of competitions from Port Macquarie to Brisbane. The students who mostly had previous limited futsal experience have embraced this opportunity,” Lachlan said.
Head Teacher, Lachlan McKenzie, explains how the program has evolved since its inception four years ago. “Each year the number of students engaged in the program has grown. This year we have 37. Available to all Year 7 students, it is a one-year program offering a variety of workshops; including how to speak to the media, sports injury and sport psychology workshops, nutrition seminars, exercise classes and excursions to facilities such as Metricon Stadium and the Surfing Australia’s High performance centre. In addition, the Sports Excellence students went as a group to the Commonwealth Games to watch Athletics,” Lachlan said.
Mullumbimby High School has a proud history of sporting achievements, with its most famous exstudent being Commonwealth, world and Olympic swimming champion, Petria Thomas. Current students are hoping to follow in Petria’s footsteps, with the Sporting Excellence Program helping to provide additional opportunity for success.
compete in the United States as a member of the national futsal team. “Last year, 2016 Year 12 student Krista Ruehe captained the Australian futsal team. “Our Junior 2017 Sportsperson of the Year, Reese Donnelly, who is currently in Year 9 also continues to dominate in her sporting fields. She has this year competed at New South Wales Combined High Schools open girls softball, cricket and football championships. As a 14 years old player, this alone is a major achievement. “This year we have already had over 50 students represent at levels above school level including a team of 16 students who represented at State swimming,” Lachlan said. While the Sports Excellence Programs celebrate the achievements of those who excel in individual sports, Lachlan commented that the school is passionate about helping all students enjoy physical education. “We are focused on assisting all our students to develop a growth mindset and reap the benefits of being actively involved in sport.” For more information, visit mullumbimb-h.schools.nsw.edu.au
“Our Senior Sportsperson of the Year in 2017 was Zahli Currie, currently in Year 12. This year she will
9 Jubilee Ave Mullumbimby 16 www.byronlifemag.com
6684 2600
LOCALSPORTINGSTAR
From snowy slopes to surf and sunshine
Steve Scott
C
arving through ice, bouncing massive moguls and gliding on powder, the sun and sand of Byron Bay is a far cry from the backto-back winters Steve Scott used to live for.
alive. He had top-10 finishes at World Cups but says that his biggest achievement was being able to pass his knowledge to students as an instructor.
This bloke living in Billinudgel, was once a professional skier and ski instructor. An unusual career-choice for a boy born in Wollongong, but one which was originally inspired by his mother.
“I can’t believe I found this, but the T-shirt I’m wearing today came from a World Cup many years ago. I had won second place, but the prizes were lost, so at the prizegiving other team members donated bits of their uniform. This one was from the Alaskan Telemark racing Association,” Steve said.
“I was born in Wollongong but grew up in Berry on the south coast of New South Wales. I was eight-years-old when Dad took me for a weekend ski trip with his mates, which I absolutely loved. “At 17, I was living in Deniliquin and my mother, bless her, suggested I start on a different path. She took me to Falls Creek two weeks before the start of the ski season. We walked to every lodge and I somehow landed a barman’s position making cocktails in a sweet spot where a national ski team member was living. I gained my instructors certificate the following winter in Austria and then spent three years doing back-toback winters in Europe, America and Australia to become a fully-certified instructor,” Steve said. During this time, Steve competed in a number of international competitions in moguls and telemarking which are extreme forms of freestyle downhill skiing. He competed for Australia and secured various sponsorship to keep the dream
Steve and a friend, Mick Gow (aka Femus) started a skiwear clothing range in the 1980’s. If you’re lucky, you can still find some of this sought-after vintage ski apparel under the brand name, Kaotic. It was funky, groovy and unlike anything seen on the slopes before, making it a hit worldwide. “It dominated our non-ski time for two and a half years. I ended up selling my share of Kaotic and after 16 back-to-back winters, I decided to take a year off. That year ended up being the rest of my life, leading me to the beautiful lifestyle I share in Byron Bay with my family,” he said. Although he occasionally has the ski bug, his last time on the slopes was five years ago in Telluride, Colorado. While he does miss the alpine beauty, he’ll take the warm sun over the bitterly cold snow any day of the week. www.byronlifemag.com 17
LOCALSPORTINGSTAR
Grand slams and gold medals Margaret Fisher
F
rom growing up on rural courts in Albury to competing on the hallowed grass of Wimbledon, Margaret Fisher has never been one to let her dreams pass her by. The retired teacher spent four years of her life saving her pennies and pounds for the opportunity to play tennis for Australia, having learnt the sport during World War II. Now, at the graceful age of 88, she demonstrates the same charisma for tennis as she did 65 years ago at Wimbledon. Not even a recent cancer scare could stop her becoming an over-85 double world champion in 2017.
In 1939, a grass court complex was built in South Albury by Allan Kendall Sr. who was the brotherin-law of Wimbledon Champion, Jack Crawford. His late son, Allan, was also an Australian champion tennis star and later joined the BBC to become the first producer of the famous childhood television program, Play School.
boat to England, then I could go, as long as I had a job to go to over there first.”
“Mr. Kendall was a friend of my father’s and I was encouraged to play. It was a sixpence on Sunday mornings and there were free lessons during the war,” Margaret said.
Margaret’s journey took 45 days to reach England, an exciting trip with many stops to visit ports all over the world, including a dangerous pass through the Suez Canal.
This year, she’s set to do it all over again. Now that’s growing bold.
After the war, Margaret’s family moved to Grafton, where Margaret joined them after studying at Teacher’s College. Her job as a teacher only paid four pounds per week, of which she kept 10 shillings for herself. She paid her parents board and her father saved the rest.
“Of course, I didn’t even realise there was fighting going on at the time, our ship was escorted by war ships through the canal,” she said.
She grew up in the NSW town of Albury with two brothers. As a young girl, she remembers her father heading off for war, one of her brothers only being born in the year leading up to his departure. Her family were all gifted sports people, they had a table tennis table set up on the verandah and her brothers were good at cricket. 18 www.byronlifemag.com
“My father always encouraged me to do well and he believed in my dream to play tennis. He said, if I could save the 84 pounds I needed to get the
“It took three-and-a-half years, but finally I saved the 84 pounds. When I went to catch the boat, my father handed me over everything I had paid him as board and told me to play more tennis.”
She arrived in London on a Friday and started work on the Monday, a part-time position earning 10 pounds per week which allowed her to also play tennis. She made it through to the third round of the British Open which qualified her to play Wimbledon. This led to a free trip to Holland
LOCALSPORTINGSTAR
Margaret Fisher on centre court Wimbledon in 1953
to play in the Dutch Championships. She then travelled through Europe with friends for six weeks. “This was only six or so years after the war, which is quite remarkable when you think about it. I had never been on my own for a day before I stepped foot onto that boat to sail to England. It was an extraordinary year and the memories of it are still so clear. There was the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II which was an exciting time in England,” Margaret said.
“I had barely picked up a racquet in more than 20 years. Getting fit again at around 80 years old was a challenge, but I can say that I’m much fitter now at 88 than I was at 80. Or even 70! “I can run better now than I could 10 years ago. When I started playing again, I couldn’t run after a ball. But now, with improved fitness, it’s becoming instinctive to move toward the ball and run all over the court.”
It cost her another 90 pounds to get the boat back home again.
“It’s an exciting thing, keeping fit and getting fitter. Even playing last week, I could feel I was fitter than I was two weeks ago. I think the cooler weather does help, it’s just lovely,” she said.
In Australia she raised four children and had a long and distinguished career as a teacher and then at Parliament House in Canberra. Her family and career had given her passion and purpose. After retiring, she noticed her daily drive began to deteriorate. It was her brother, Ian, who suggested she take up tennis again.
At 82, Margaret won silver in the mixed doubles at the World Super Seniors Tennis Championships in Croatia and had become a national singles champion for her age group in Australia. Two years later, she captained Australia's over 80s tennis team competing at the world championships in Turkey.
The following year in 2015, a cancer scare forced her to move to Brisbane for treatment. She lived with her daughter for 12 months and credits getting into a daily routine for aiding her recovery. A year later, she was back living in Byron Bay, playing tennis and walking her border collie, Leo, every morning. In 2016 she returned to Croatia where she took silver and bronze medals, then in 2017, determined to win a world championship, she scooped gold, not once but twice, winning both the women’s doubles and mixed doubles in the over-85 category at the International Tennis Federation World Super Seniors Tennis Championships in Florida. This year, she plans to return to Croatia for the championships, where her eye will be on winning gold in the singles. The local Feros Care Hero epitomises the Feros Care motto of Growing Bold, proving that no matter what life delivers, you’re never too old to live a life you love. www.byronlifemag.com 19
bangalow
… g n i h t y r e v e Do do n
What’s in a name? It’s thought that the name Bangalow was derived from the language of the Bundjalung Aboriginal people who inhabited the area long before European settlement. The Widjabul people of the Bundjalung group had lived in the area for tens of thousands of years. The word, ‘Bangalla’ is said to mean either a low hill or a form of palm tree. Both are prevalent in and around Bangalow. The original spelling for the town was actually Bangaloe, as demonstrated by the naming of the railway station in 1894. Modernised spelling of the town’s name came into play in 1907 when the town was spelled, Bangalow. In that same year, fire destroyed many of the township’s timber buildings.
When was Bangalow set tled? Early European settlement began during the 1840s when the Big Scrub was being cleared. Timber cutters and cedar traders are thought to have cleared more than 99% of this rainforest by the turn of the century. It has been estimated that 7 million super feet of timber was removed from the Big Scrub in sixty years. 20 www.byronlifemag.com
A restful retreat, a step back in time or great gastronomy, Bangalow is one of the brightest jewels in the Northern Rivers crown. The fact it largely flies under the radar is perhaps one of its greatest charms. It leaves a world of discovery to delight those who didn’t quite expect to find such quality and peaceful elegance in a rustic village. It’s referred to as a one-street town, and indeed you can find a swathe of treasure troves along Byron Street, but brimming with historic splendour the entire village is worthy of a Sunday stroll. Surrounded by lush rolling hills, the abundance of macadamias, organic fruit and vegetables, and a large production of hemp, means there is no shortage of delicious and nutritious places to grab a bite. A bit above Byron, is this description in reference to classiness or geography? We’ll let you decide.
The first settler in the district was Thomas Robinson who purchased land near the present town site in 1881. The Byron Creek Post Office was opened in 1891 and in 1903 one hundred allotments of land were auctioned by local developer, Robert Campbell. Learn more - Bangalow Historic Museum Located one block south of the main street, the Bangalow Historic Museum has a fascinating collection of historic artifacts.
Early settler, Robert Campbell, was of Irish descent, so it is thought that he named the road he built in her honour. The spelling is slightly different however, with the street name displaying a double-L. The early Irish settlers named many landmarks in her honour, including the railway station which was briefly called Granuaille between being named Byron Creek and then Bangalow. Where the present Bangalow Hotel sits used to be another hotel which burnt down in 1939, that was previously also named Granuaille.
Bangalow’s Irish pirate Bangalow’s queen – Granuaile historic charm It may have caught your eye as a name that’s tricky to pronounce, but the street that bears the name, Granuaille, has a wicked past. The Pirate Queen Grace O'Malley, also known as Granuaile and by her Irish Gaelic name, Grainne Ni Mhaille, is one of Ireland's foremost heroines, whose life was the stuff of Irish legend.
Bangalow’s heritage-lined main street displays historic buildings and signs of early settler life, dating back prior to 1900. Through fire and flood, these character-filled buildings and bungalows have evolved to house the shops and cafes we love today.
bangalow
o nothing THAT’S THE BEAUTY OF BANGALOW Irish Pirate Queen - Granuaile
Our Corner Store/Zacalu Zoo One of the oldest commercial buildings in Bangalow, the spot where Our Corner Store and Zacalu Zoo now stand was built in 1906 and originally housed a dentistry. Eventually, there were several other businesses in the same spot including a café, auctioneer, bus depot, produce store, green grocer, antique dealer, clothing shop and a hardware.
Did you know? The building of Our Corner Store also was home to a
bootmaker owned by P.J. Waugh, the great grandfather of cricketers Mark and Steve Waugh!
Bangalow Historical Society Museum and Tea Rooms Did you know this place of tea and trivia was once a brothel? Just off Byron
Street on the corner of Ashton and Deacon Street, it’s a delightful location to enjoy a hot beverage on the Queenslander’s verandah, but previously it served as a doctor’s surgery, a family home, a boarding house and a brothel!
Did you know – In the entrance to Heritage House you can still see a board with hooks for the room keys and names of the workers at the brothel.
The Bangalow Rug Shop Now home to a beautiful collection of exotic rugs, the site where the Bangalow Rug Shop sits had an exciting past, having been home to a wide array of different local businesses. From an auctioneer sales room, to a fruit shop, restaurants and grocery stores, this building has had an assorted history over the years.
Bangalow Newsagency The hub of the community, Bangalow Newsagency is where locals get the news, as well as books, stationery and school supplies. The original building that stood in its place, the Rural Bank and Government Savings Bank, burnt down in 1930. The structure that stands there now was built a year later and eventually leased to a barber and a newsagent, and has continued to trade as a newsagency since 1953.
Bangalow’s Premier Lash & Brow Destination The Lash Lounge Exclusive boutique now in Bangalow Australia’s premier Master Lash & Brow Artist and Owner of The Lash Lounge Sydney, Sammy Jayne brings her 25 years of experience to the Byron Bay region Specialising in 3-15D Russian Volume Lashes, Brow Styling with Henna, Lash Lift and Tinting Personalised training available
Did you know? The Masonic Hall has had a lean for the last 90 years; it was
built in 1922 and developed its lopsided appearance by 1925, it’s remained the same ever since. Bangalow’s own version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
By Appointment only p: 0413 310 447 e: thelashloungebyron@gmail.com
www.thelashloungesydney.com.au
www.byronlifemag.com 21
Destination
bangalow
Mee t The Locals Stacey Allen and Ash Keillah How long have you been living in Bangalow? We just moved here two weeks ago! Fave place: Woods is our favourite place for coffee and breakfast and we love the home wares store Hendrix & Harlow What you love most about Bangalow: Everyone says hi, everyone is friendly. We love Byron but here is an older more crowd, more chilled, a little less ‘backpackery’ and more relaxed. In 3 words: Friendly, laid-back with a bit of class!
Viv Fantin and her daughter Maggie How long have you been living in Bangalow? We’ve been living in the area for 11 years now. Fave place: Bangalow Weir is off the beaten track and a great little place to sit and relax with a nice playground. The best chai is at Pantry 29. Also, Heritage House has the best scones in town! What you love most about Bangalow: I love everything. Yesterday perfect example of our community spirit when we had the Billycart Derby and school fair. It is very familycentric with a great community spirit, unlike any place I have ever lived. If things go pearshaped for people, someone is always there to step in and help. In 3 words: Fiendly, creative and welcoming.
Claire O’Meara How long have you been living in Bangalow? 15 years, My husband’s family has been here for about 80-90 years! Fave place: Shopping anywhere on the main street in Bangalow. What you love most about Bangalow: I love the way the community pulls together whenever something happens. This is the same as when there is an event, people come out of the hills, out of the woodwork and pull together and help each other. In 3 words: Special, inviting, welcoming.
Rachael Peachey and her daughter Alice How long have you been living in Bangalow? 21 years Fave place: My favourite place in nature is Killen Falls, the best place for coffee is Harvest. In Bangalow, Sparrow is awesome and the Bowlo; the best place to go on a Friday night! What you love most about Bangalow: It is lovely little hub and a great little place to raise a family; in the morning you see everyone you know, my son is at the community children’s centre and loves it there!
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In 3 words: Friendly, cosmopolitan, great coffee 22 www.byronlifemag.com
TRADITIONAL LIVING… RE-IMAGINED
Sam Garkawe How long have you been living in Bangalow? 22 years Fave place: I quite like Town Restaurant and Cafe What you love most about Bangalow: Community, the friendliness, walking down the street and bumping into people I know. In 3 words: A pleasant place.
Humpy noun – ‘a modern interpretation of the traditional bark structure, alternative accommodation for those looking for extra space or with a passion for the great outdoors’
The Humpy Story
Jonathon Shatwell How long have you been living in Bangalow? I’ve lived in Clunes, just up the road, for about 6 years. Fave place: The monthly markets are absolutely fantastic, decent things to eat, interesting things to look at, nice people to talk to, occasionally you will see a celebrity knocking about! What you love most about Bangalow: Community, I come here for things to do. Interesting people. It’s an excellent area to live in. In 3 words: Bang-a tastic!!!
Sometimes, you just need a little extra space. That’s where we step in. As the way your life changes, we help you evolve. Our Humpies are as adaptable as they are versatile, with an environmental footprint that is light and lovely. With your Humpy, the possibilities are limitless. Humpy dreaming is a beautiful thing – with spaces that suit your style that can be assembled in your backyard in 1 day!
p: 0439 983 505 e: info@humpyco.com w: humpyco.com www.byronlifemag.com 23
Destination
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ENNISMORE FIELD Designing landscapes that are resilient and beautiful are at the heart of every Ennismore Field project. From Strategic Land Use Master Planning to Residential Retreats; the aim remains the same
Director and registered Landscape Architect, Mark Perkins relocated back to the North Coast in 2004 after 15 years in Sydney and Melbourne. Mark set about building a business based on a passion for the landscape we live in. In 2014, Mark set up his Landscape Architecture practice in the historic Bank of New South Wales building on Byron Street in Bangalow. “Bangalow is a vibrant place to have an office and with Gold Coast Airport 40 minutes away I feel very connected” Mark said. His experience in the industry has led to being published in Landscape Architecture
Australia and presenting at the British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects Conference in 2017, discussing the complexities and beauty of our region. “the requests of our clients are many, from maximising views and creating pool and entertainment areas with high end finishes, to rainforest restoration and edible gardens. Often all on the one property. Clients are also looking for ways to leverage their property, from event management and rental, to boutique food production and environmental conservation. We all have different goals and aspirations, ours is to realise them for our clients,” Mark said.
ENNISMORE FIELD Landscape Architects. Unit:1B,16 Byron Street Bangalow Web: www.ennismorefield.com.au Email: info@ennismorefield.com.au
24 www.byronlifemag.com
Ph +61 2 6687 0471 MOB 0447 713 999
Destination
bangalow There’s nothing quite as luxurious as the feel of an authentic Persian rug underfoot. Like paintings, they can be appreciated daily for their aesthetic qualities, but have the added benefit of being practical floor covering. And when it is genuine, it’s a feeling you can really sink your toes into.
THE BANGALOW RUG SHOP Alexander Cater, Nicholas Cater, Milton Cater and Max Cater
Milton Cater and his family have specialised in old and antique rugs since 1974 with the secondgeneration born and educated in Byron Bay. Milton found his life’s passion while touring Europe in 1972. “I first became aware of the beauty of old carpets as a young man, where a Copenhagen specialist dealer taught me the basics. This powerful textile art of women, of village, of tribe and family spoke directly to me. It was an under-appreciated art form very different from the imperial western view of fine art.” He returned to Australia via Iran, Turkey and Afghanistan learning and purchasing from ancient old-world alleyways and bazaars. As there was no specialist rug dealer operating locally at the time, friends and family of Milton grabbed these beautiful heirlooms upon his return to Australia. His passion was born. Subsequent trips to this area of the world led to Milton being introduced to many tribes and rug makers in Iran, Afghanistan and Kurdistan. He became the founder of the Oriental Rug Society of Queensland and a member of the Oriental Rug Society of NSW Inc. Do you continue to source your rugs directly from overseas? “We are at source in Iran every year buying direct from the families who continue the ancient tradition of sheep husbandry and the wool clip. Many of these families have been our friends for 40 years, producing new rugs, and helping us source the family heirloom dowry rugs for which we are famous.”
Tell us about the ancient tradition that is still utilised in the rug weaving today. “Our “raison d’etre” is simply that the person who weaves the rug must be related to the sheep-herder. This way the ancient family tradition continues, and these now highly educated and wealthy graziers continue to choose a traditional life over the modern western model. They are free of consumerism, women do not wear the veil, and own property in their own right. Their wool is a sustainable resource, perfect for hard-wearing rugs. It is rare in this world of synthetics and copy factories.” How can we look after this investment? “We are a full-service rug firm offering washing, repairs and restoration. From your simple Afghan doormat to your woolly Moroccan Berber, or the antique Turkish Prayer Rug in your study, your rug is in expert hands. We are the only recognised valuers of rugs north of Sydney. It is always a pleasure when rugs are returned to us for a wash, locals who are now adults share their childhood memories playing on the rugs they grew up on.” Where are you located in Bangalow? “We are in an exquisite heritage building on Byron Street in Bangalow. We have been at the same address for 20 years! We sell our rugs Australiawide and overseas via our website, orientalcarpets. com.au or for more information on washing, visit byronrugwash.com.”
THE BANGALOW RUG SHOP Full service international firm since 1974
THE RUG SHOP Byron Street, Bangalow, NSW 10am to 5pm 7 days
02 6687 2424 www.orientalcarpets.com.au
www.byronlifemag.com 25
Bangalow Dental is a fresh boutique dental practice providing high quality dental services to local families and individuals of all ages. Our friendly and qualified staff have a wealth of experience and provide the highest level of personal care, attention to detail and honesty in a relaxed friendly environment. It is our pleasure to welcome you to our practice. Services provided: • Same day crowns • Veneers • State of the art cosmetic work Dr. Fabio Souza Miranda Dentist
Dr. Eduarda L.C. Miranda Dentist
Ms Hollie Jarrett Hygienist/Therapist
AHPRA Reg. DEN0001775004 AHPRA Reg. DEN0001580864 AHPRA Reg. DEN0001275713
• Implants • Orthodontics • Invisalign: a clear alternative to braces Suite 5, Bangalow Medical Centre, Ballina Road, Bangalow, 2479 P: 6687 2766 E: hello@bangalowdental.com (Mon to Thurs: 8.00am – 5.00pm)
NEW CLINIC NOW OPEN
Veterinary Services Full service, compassionate pet care. Serving dogs, cats, birds, rabbits and pocket pets. General health and wellbeing checks. Vaccinations, heartworm injections and microchipping. Routine surgery and dentistry. Radiography and ultrasonography. Dermatology and clinical pathology Emergency care.
26 www.byronlifemag.com
Bangalow vets provides compassionate, skilled, veterinary medical services for your pets. We believe in a gentle, kind approach to treatment and are dedicated to education and supporting pet owners with high level care. Our staff are committed to caring for animals and their families!
Preventive Care Worming, flea and tick products Nutritional care Behavioural consults
Clinic Hours Mon – Friday – 8:30am – 5:30pm Sat – 9:30am – 12:30pm Sun: Closed After Hours service available 24/7
Cnr Lismore Rd & Dudgeons Ln, Bangalow, NSW, 2479 02 55556990 | info@bangalowvets.com.au | www.bangalowvets.com.au
Destination
bangalow
MEET YOURVETS
Dr. Ailsa Rutherford and Dr. Alexandria Brandon
from left to right: Vet Nurse Kate Parisi and Dr Ailsa
Dr. Alexandria Brandon “I’ve always loved animals and wanted to help them. They don’t have a voice for themselves, and they give us so much love, without asking much back.” The hinterland of the Northern Rivers is far flung from where Alexandria grew up, amongst the snow and glaciers of Alaska. She chose to move to Australia to study and after several years in Brisbane, moved to the Shire. She is working on obtaining her master’s in veterinary medicine through Massey University and has a special interest in surgery. What pets do you have at home? “I have a menagerie, and every single one is special. One of the less common members compared to most households is my African Grey parrot, Giza, who can mimic everyone in the household and confuses the dogs when he calls their names!”
What is something about you that not many people know? “My first career was as a solicitor. I really like my clients much better as a vet!”
With a caring and gentle approach to treatment and consultation, Bangalow Vets provides modern and professional health care for your furry and feathered friends. Opening this year in April, the clinic may be new, but co-owners, Dr. Ailsa Rutherford and Dr. Alexandria Brandon are familiar faces having been at North Coast Emergency Vets in Ballina since 2015. The team’s nurses also spend time working at the emergency vets, ensuring the level of experience you expect.
Where is the most interesting place you have ever visited?
What is a memorable procedure you have had to perform as a vet?
“Istanbul; it had a heady, earthy feel and a very modern pulse at the same time.”
“A Weimeraner with a distended abdomen. I could feel a rock-hard stomach; his owners sheepishly then mentioned that their property backed onto a golf course: sure enough, Winston had 9 golf balls in his stomach! They had to be removed by surgery and he went home the next day. Since then, he’s not been allowed to wander on his own.”
Do you have any tattoos or scars? “I have a scar on my left temple where I fell ice skating and had a traumatic brain injury.”
Dr. Ailsa Rutherford “As with most Vets, my desire to work with animals came from a young age.” Growing up in the UK, Ailsa was inspired by James Heriott, an iconic vet. After studying for six years ant attaining her degree at Cambridge University, she initially worked as a mixed practitioner. After a year, she moved to London, becoming the owner of a busy practice near Wimbledon. She moved to Australia with her husband, Michael, in 2011. “My special interests are ultrasonography and emergency medicine and critical care. I am about to sit further exams in emergency medicine and critical care to gain further accreditation in this field.”
What is something about you that not many people know? “I set a goal of completing the London Triathlon and did so. From doing triathlons, I started to cycle a lot more and went on a couple of cycling holidays. I’ve cycled at altitude from Lhasa to Kathmandu over three weeks covering around 100km a day including cycling up to Everest base camp along the way. It was one of the hardest, yet most incredible things I’ve had the opportunity to do.”
What is the most extreme or adrenalinpumping thing you've ever done? “Doing a bungee swing at Oribi Gorge in South Africa; it’s the highest swing of its kind in the world, or so it’s claimed; its 165m. I opened my mouth to scream and nothing came out!” www.byronlifemag.com 27
Destination
bangalow Founder of Hemp Foods Australia,
Paul Benhaim
inspects a hemp crop in Victoria.
Meet the Agent
Janice Maple
Have you had your hemp today?
“I think I am the luckiest agent in Australia because I get to sell my village every day. It’s not a job to me. Because I live here, and love where I live, the local knowledge and passion becomes an asset to my clients.”
Hemp; a complete protein containing 9 essential amino acids may just be one of the most perfect food sources on the planet. Food-lovers and those seeking nutritional nirvana rejoice! Because the largest Australian certified organic hemp food wholesaler, retailer, manufacturer and exporter in the Southern Hemisphere is located right here in Bangalow.
Elders Bangalow
Swapping dreary Victorian weather with sunshine in September became a nobrainer for Janice Maple. On a family vacation with her partner and six-month-old son, the couple couldn’t believe they were standing on the beach in September after leaving behind grey skies in Melbourne. It was a lifestyle they wanted for their son, so the following year they moved to Byron Bay.
Hemp Foods Australia’s 11,000 square foot facility is 100% Certified Organic, and all products for consumption are vegetarian and vegan. Employing purely mechanical, low-temperature processes, resulting in the most nutritious products possible.
With a background in event management, Janice looked for a different professional career path in the Northern Rivers.
High in protein, omega oils, minerals and vitamins, there are easy ways to include hemp into your everyday meals to give them a boost of nutrition.
“A real estate sales trainee role at Elders in Byron Bay was advertised in the local paper. That was back in early 2001. By 2010, I was very lucky to become a Principal of Elders in Bangalow. If you are passionate and love what you do, the sky is the limit and my career in real estate has certainly shown me that,” she said.
Hemp Protein – is an easily-digestible form of protein to help with muscle recovery and growth. A spoonful of this can be added into almost anything, although one of the most popular ways is to include a serving in your smoothie.
What inspired the move to Bangalow? “We decided to look in Bangalow for a number of reasons. Bangalow offered better value for money, a great community, quaint heritage village, only 15 minutes to the beach, and it suited our family. We looked at one house on Rafton’s Road and bought it! That was 17 years ago. Many of the reasons that attracted us all those years ago, are the same reasons that still attract the buyers I meet every day. It’s easy to fall in love with Bangalow!” Are you still at that same property or do you like to move around? “I’ve lived in seven houses in Bangalow, let’s just say I get itchy feet! I think I'm inspired by all the beautiful homes I get to visit. I've renovated two older homes and built two brand new homes. This moving around has given me an insight into the different neighborhoods of Bangalow which other agents just don’t have.”
Hemp Seeds – delicious and nutritious; these make an excellent sprinkle on your smoothie bowl. Use them where you’d use other nuts – bake them into bread, mix them into yoghurt or back into home-made granola bars or biscuits. Hemp Flour – Gluten free, low GI and full of fibre. Use sparingly in baked goods to provide a nutty flavour to enhance foods ie breads, cookies & biscuits. Hemp Oil – Great source of omega 3 & 6: in dressings, dips, sauces, curries... and even on your skin! Good for you, and good for the earth, growing hemp is one of the few farming practices that is also good for the environment. Which is great news for nature lovers. Hemp plants remove more carbon dioxide emissions from the air than trees do and use less water than cotton to grow. Hemp Foods Australia has just launched the new SATIVA Organic Hemp Skincare range, made with native Australian botanicals visit www.sativaskincare.com for more info.
Make any meal healthy...
Just add Hemp
02 6687 1500 eldersbangalow.com.au
28 www.byronlifemag.com
ORDER NOW FROM
www.hempfoods.com.au @HempFoodsAustralia
13 Station Street Bangalow NSW 2479
HOURS 7 Days 10am–6pm and by appointment
p: (02) 6687 2000 w: mudhoneysalon.com.au www.byronlifemag.com 29
COVERSTORY
A Journey to the Brink and Back With Local Street Artist, Nitsua “Growing up I was always drawing and getting paint on my hands, creating something was just in my nature.”
A
rtist and designer, Austin Moncrieff (AKA NITSUA) has an undeniable flair for leaving his mark on the world. Whether its through his fashion or art, his professional skateboarding career or the fact that’s he’s stared death in the face three times, (twice beating cancer) he’s living proof that selfbelief goes a long way toward a life well-lived. Born in New Zealand, an Auckland farm is a far cry from the coastal alternative lifestyle of Byron Bay that Austin now calls home. At 10-years-old, his parents separated with his mother taking Austin and his sister to the Gold Coast. “Mum re-married soon after and my stepdad built a boat we lived on around the Broadwater from Hope Island to Main Beach. Being near the ocean gave me a drive to surf, but when the waves were small, skating was the next best thing,” Austin said.
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As well as art, Austin was fascinated by fashion. He would turn his school shirt insideout, have one sock up and one down; anything to be unique and feel less conformed. He took his expressive desires and applied them in a Diploma of Arts, specialising in Graphic Design and Advertising. His first flirt with fashion was with a bike apparel and sportswear company in Burleigh Heads, followed by a local surf brand. But it was during a trip back to New Zealand where his creativity flourished into entrepreneurship. “It was while visiting my cousin and his wife on Waiheke Island that I decided to get into the game myself. We all started working on a project called Sidewalk; the aim to be something that wouldn’t follow typical fashion trends. Our first range, entirely based on my drawings, sold to Ken Done in Sydney. We then signed a 4-year licensed
COVERSTORY
agreement with Done Art and Design and created three collections per year. Knowing my fabrics, textile designing and screen printing soon became my mastery.”
up this side of the sport a few years ago but still takes time out on the short board at the park. Surfing has always been his primary love, although he says that the Byron beaches are becoming pretty crowded.
It was during his journey of artistic self-expression that Austin was diagnosed with testicular cancer, at the young age of 21.
“Lately I’ve been travelling to some secret spots south of here to escape,” he said.
“I found a painful lump, it wasn’t until it was removed that it was confirmed as cancerous.
He moved to Byron seven years ago. “I always had an attraction to the shire and its sense of freedom and space for self-expression.”
“I started out by seeking the help of a spiritual healer who managed to reduce the size of my tumour by around 40 percent. But my doctors told me that I was at high risk of dying without conventional medicine, so I underwent chemotherapy,” Austin said.
From his studio here in Byron Bay, Austin created NITSUA, the art of creation, interpretation, and expression. His art can be seen on walls, doors, fences and vehicles across the shire, as well as within people’s homes on furniture and homeware.
He created and collaborated with many other visionaries, and as his portfolio broadened, so did his desire to reconnect to his love for his skater upbringing. Austin’s next passion project became Early Skateboards, and organically his thirst for substance, culture, and street art became apparent. Through stenciling skateboards and t-shirts, his unique style was becoming more recognisable which led to the progression of art into the streets. Amid the art, Austin’s downtime involved surfing and skating, which led to a completely different careerpath. “Downhill skate boarding was a thing I loved, but it led to some pretty extreme accidents. One nearfatal in 2006 resulted in a helicopter ride to hospital, internal bleeding to the brain, a heap of staples in my head and a few weeks in intensive care,” Austin said. After beating testicular cancer, Austin commented that getting over that accident didn’t seem as bad, in fact it enlightened him even more. Instead of calling it quits, he continued skate boarding and was part of the Australian Downhill Skate Boarding team which toured and competed throughout Europe. He gave
“It’s becoming really popular for people to want something unique as part of their home interiors. I do all kinds of interior projects for customers, whether it is doors, splash backs, tables, you name it, it is all possible. I’ve always loved the concept of functional art and art that has a purpose, it’s something I really enjoy doing as well as my mural work.
“I knew this time round I had to do better. It’s not easy dealing with the symptoms chemo throws at you, so from my own research I found that cannabis oil was the way to go. My doctor didn’t recommend this treatment, he was by the book and pushed chemo all the way and didn’t make any recommendations to my diet to support the recovery. “I made my own choice and I’m so grateful I did. Medicinal cannabis stopped my nausea, helped me keep my appetite and generally made life bearable. My second experience was far better than the first, and I put this down to the cannabis oil,” Austin said. He was given the all-clear earlier this year and officially placed in remission. Despite having to fight the disease twice, his positive outlook on the future dispels any fear he had on the cancer returning. “Overcoming the fear of the initial diagnosis is half the battle. We need to understand that we are the creators of our own destiny. What we believe is who we are.
“I can’t really say what has been my most famous public art piece, the most recognised would have to be the cat on the fence down Jonson Street, it tends to get a lot of appreciation on social media.”
“I’m a visual person and I envision this process to be like planting a small first seed, and from that come the roots that build a strong foundation. Eventually this grows into something more beautiful than you’ve ever had before.
Through the success, zest for life and passion for adventure, it’s hard to fathom that Austin was once again diagnosed with cancer.
“I saw it as a chance, a chance to start new, a chance to change myself into a better being.
“I was brushing my teeth one night when I saw the lump on one of my tonsils, right then my gut instinct said, ‘oh shit here we go again.’ Although I was in disbelief for a few weeks. I had the tonsil and tumour removed and then the shock hit when I was told that it was cancerous; a large B Cell, NonHodgkin lymphoma.” Knowing full well what pain and discomfort was in his future, Austin sought a different treatment method to work alongside his chemotherapy.
“I’ve planted a good seed for myself and that is just going to keep growing.” His brushes with death and cancer contemplation translates to other areas of his life, whether surfing, skating, painting or working on his health. “My cancer journey has taught me a lot about acceptance, being patient and persistent.” His journey has led to rebirth, with clarity of mind, www.byronlifemag.com born with the creative freedom to simply ‘be.’ 31
COVERSTORY
Have you seen Nitsua’s Amazing Artwork around town?
NOMADS THE BEATLES GO TO BYRON
LENNON NOMADS
PAISLEY DREAMING NOMADS 32 www.byronlifemag.com
COVERSTORY
ROOSUA BBFC
SURF ALLEY
CATSUA BBFC REOW FACE & FRIENDS www.byronlifemag.com 33
get to know
Felipe Favaro
Max Cater
General Manager, Hemp Foods Australia
Sales at Milton Cater Oriental Carpets The Bangalow Rug Shop
FAST 7 FACTS
FAST 7 FACTS
Star Sign: Sagittarius
Star sign: Leo
Fav Movie: A beautiful mind
Fav movie: Interstellar
Fav Colour: Green
Fav colour: Red
Fav Holiday destination: Mentawai, Indonesia
Fav holiday destination: Hokkaido
Fav Music: Rock Fort Rock, The Skatalites.
Fav music: All music
Fav Quote: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you
Fav quote: “One step forward, two steps back”
Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? I was a bitten by a dog when I was twelve and have a scar on my leg.
Tell us something most people don’t know about you? I was one of the last babies to be born in Byron Bay Hospital. My school friends, just days and weeks younger than myself, were all born in Lismore.
Like many people, Brazilian born Felipe, fell in love with the beautiful Byron Shire region when he visited the area as a traveller. “I was on a sabbatical year travelling the world and decided to stay! I am really grateful for everything that has happened in my life since my move to Australia. I have met incredible people from all over the world, all the friends that I have made, my colleagues, all the experiences, it’s been amazing!” Said Felipe. Since moving to the Byron area six and a half years ago Felipe has never looked back and the local lifestyle suits him perfectly. Coming from Sao Paulo in Brazil, Felipe spent his childhood between Sao Paulo and Juquehy, which is an amazing beach two hours away from the big city. This inspired his love of beaches and of course, surfing. “It is a beautiful part of the world with nice beaches and good surf that I recommend everyone visiting Brazil to go!” He said. Felipe loves his job at Hemp Foods Byron Bay and believes in the health benefits and positive environmental impact of the product. “You are what eat. So come in and try the hemp seeds. They are great on salads, museli and yoghurts.” Said Felipe. When he’s not promoting Hemp products locally, Felipe loves surfing, cooking, visiting national parks, waterfalls or hanging out with friends.
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Despite being only 21 years of age Max has wisdom, style and tastes way beyond his years. He is a committed lifelong vegetarian who loves all foods, except tomato skin and he eschews the drugs and clubbing experiences he feels has become too popular with his generation. Educated at Cape Byron Steiner School, which he jokingly refers to as “an education in out-of-focus rainbows”, Max has a keen eye for colour harmony, which he feels is crucial to his role in his family business of Persian Rugs and World Textiles. In his spare time, Max enjoys training and walking his pure black German Shepherd “Maverick” and is often in a helping charity mode, volunteering widely. On the weekend Max can be found searching the hinterland roads for the perfect motorcycle ride. “It’s not about speed, it’s about efficient travel on curvy well sealed roads with banked corners, sunny skies and green fields, a total experience,” said Max. Another of Max’s passions is seeking alternative life experiences in unusual occupations. So far, he has worked as an Aviation Security Screener at Gold Coast Airport, security at Cheeky Monkeys and is also a good welder with a TAFE trade qualification. His passion for floor fashion led him to return to his family business at the The Bangalow Rug Shop, which he finds far more interesting!
Rachael Easterbrook CrossFit Byron Bay Coach, Nutrition Coach, CrossFit Kids Coach
FAST 7 FACTS Star Sign: Leo Fav Movie: Predator (love a good Sci-fi!) Fav Colour: Green Fav Holiday destination: That’s a hard one as there are so many beautiful places on the planet. I would have to say Indonesia. Fav Music: Deep house and Jazz Fav Quote: Don’t be afraid to fail. Be afraid not to try. Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? CrossFit has changed my life. It’s been more than a work out, it has been a lifestyle that has driven healthy choices and decisions. Along with nutrition, CrossFit has transformed my body, mind and my relationship to exercise and food. I want to be 80 years old and still grinding it out! Canadian born health guru, Rachael, is dedicated to transforming lives and believes she can do this through balanced nutrition and a great fitness plan. She has a12 year background in Ashtanga yoga and over 2 years of CrossFit. “I’m really passionate about opening people’s eyes to the world of nutrition, health and fitness. I love helping people conquer their fears and discovering their own strength. “As a result of my own successes and development, I want to share with people how easy it is to achieve their health and fitness goals through CrossFit and having their own nutrition coach. “I believe we are all hard wired to move and once we stop moving, that’s when things can go wrong. I am happiest when I’m moving, dancing, swimming in the Ocean and spending quality time with family.” As a mother of two, a 7 year old and 6 year old, Rachael understands how important family time is and loves living in this beautiful region, moving here just two years ago. Before that, Rachael lived in Sydney for almost eight years and moved to Torronto to have kids just after she got married. It wasn’t long, however, before the couple decided to return to Australia, they missed their friends and wanted to be close to the ocean again. “I’m continually in awe of how beautiful this area is. I love how there is such an abundance of nature around us here, and not having to look up to see so much of the sky!” Said Rachael.
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WEDDINGFEATURE
Our top tips and trends The Royal Fairytale
Love or loathe, the Royal Family know how to draw attention. A Royal Wedding is one of those few-and-far-between occasions, events forever etched in time. While some of claim not to care less, more than 100,000 excited on-lookers lined the streets of Windsor and the surrounding castle while two billion people tuned in across the world, proving our fascination with royalty still has enormous power.
Fact: It has been revealed that 3.4 million tweets were sent during the ceremony worldwide. Facts figures and fascinating revelations. Making history: Meghan began her wedding procession alone, though she was joined by Prince Charles at the Quire. She's the first royal bride to walk down the aisle without an escort. Her wedding ring: Meghan's wedding band was made of Welsh gold, which Queen Elizabeth II gifted to her. The veil: Meghan’s 15-ft long veil was designed by Givenchy's Clare Waight Keller. She had flowers for every single commonwealth country embroidered on the veil. The veil itself is made from silk tulle, with flowers embroidered in silk and organza. Meghan also incorporated two of her personal favorite florals into the design: the wintersweet, which grows in front of Nottingham Cottage (where she and Harry live), and the California poppy, the state flower of Meghan's birthplace of California.
What she wore: The first dress was by Givenchy, the second was by Stella McCartney, a lily-white halter neck.
What happened to all the flowers? They were donated to St Joseph's Hospice in Hackney, East London.
Something blue: Meghan wore shoes from Aquazurra made in silky satin, with nude mesh and soles painted in baby blue.
What did Harry say to Charles at the altar? When Prince Charles reached Harry at the altar, Harry looked at him and said: "Thank you, Pa".
At the reception: Serena Williams played beer pong! Elton John sang Tiny Dancer, Your Song, I'm Still Standing and the Circle of Life. There was an after-party after the party, select guests continued the party in London, at the Chiltern Firehouse in a soundproof room until 2 a.m. While DJ Sam Totolee provided the music in the main, Idis Elba did a stint as well. Chat show superstar James Corden, who was compering the event, reportedly instigated a dance routine which featured Prince Charles, William and Harry.
The first dance: The couple went for something a bit different and had I Wanna Dance With Somebody, instead of dancing alone they invited their guests to the dancefloor with them.
Fun food and drink: Guests feasted on 'dirty burgers', candyfloss and enjoyed drinks-of-the-world themed cocktails - including one named 'When Harry Met Meghan'.
Something borrowed and something old: Meghan wore Queen Mary's stunning antique tiara which was lent to her by Queen Elizabeth II.
Wedded whimsy “I like to watch my wedding video running backwards so I can watch myself walk out of the church a free man.” “I never married because I have three pets at home that answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog that growls every morning, a parrot that swears all afternoon and a cat that comes home late at night.” — Marie Corelli “An archaeologist is the best husband a woman can have. The older she gets, the more interested he is in her.” — Agatha Christie
Have your cake and eat it too. Trending – texture and tone. Texture: When it comes to frosting, can you ever have enough? Buttercream is not only drool-worthy, but decorators are able to create textures such as spirals and swirls. Tone: Multiple textures can be combined to produce an unlimited number of visual effects. Marbling is exceptionally popular at the moment, hitting the tone requirement. Pro tip: What is a feast for the eyes must also taste great on the tongue. A spectacular-looking cake makes a great first-impression, but how it tastes will be the lasting memory.
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WEDDINGFEATURE
Let love grow In-favour favours Think beyond the traditional and opt for favours which are in-favour with your guests. Local company, Clean Tea, produce a range of delightful and personalised favours, designed to make guests feel pampered. Favour options range from packets of loose tea to bath salts and candles.
As a twist on traditional, consider swapping table-top arrangements with an assortment of living plants. While bouquets will wilt within days, pots and trays of living arrays will last for months and years to come. A beautiful and natural keep-sake for you and guests to cherish long after the celebration has ended. Chat to the team at Eden at Byron for recommendations of how to arrange your floral fantasy.
For something cute and funky, Custom Favours let you create personalised packets of tic-tacs – sure to bring smiles to the table.
A Touch Of Elegance Wedding & Party Hire A touch of elegance have all your ceremony and reception needs under one roof, they hire for all styles of weddings from your intimate backyard wedding to beach wedding, to large elegant weddings, no wedding is to big or to small. A Touch of Elegance is a locally owned business that aim to provide brides with the very best hire equipment for their special day. They hire everything from arches and arbours to backdrops and ceiling draping all the way down table centres and wishing wells. They take their time with each bride to help personalize and style their wedding, if they don't have a desired item available, they will do what they can to help find it.
NOW OPEN IN THE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE Unit 2 1a Banksia, Drive Byron Bay Wed To Friday 9am to 5pm or By Appointment Ph 0413 707 642 www.argentondesign.com
Call Vicki today to book an appointment to start planning your special day. 266 Keen Street, Lismore
0428 406 323
atouchofeleganceweddinghire@yahoo.com.au ATouchOfEleganceHire
ATouchOfEleganceWeddingHire
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WEDDINGFEATURE
Dresses that Demand to be Different
Designed for the woman of style, substance and passion, Grace Loves Lace specialises in beautiful, luxurious and effortlessly feminine gowns for the modern bride. Since launching in 2010, Grace Loves Lace has gained cult status for their spirited and innovative approach to bridal fashion and are the designers of "The Most Pinned Wedding Gown on Pinterest" Their dresses are handmade to order in their Australian studio based on the Gold Coast and they have 3 exclusive appointmentonly showrooms worldwide in Los Angeles, London and the Gold Coast. The luxurious laces and silks are designed for the woman seeking a gown made with soul, authenticity and sophisticated charm. For the woman who demands to be different. She’s a traditionalist and a modernist, with just the right mix of sophistication, elegance and spirit that shines through as she dances blissfully to the beat of her own drum.
with Grace Loves Lace
Edie
Sexy, contemporary and elegant, Edie was made for a dramatic entrance and dancing all night. Featuring a sophisticated silhouette of body hugging abstract stretch lace trimmed with Spanish fringing and exotic tassels that come to life with movement.
$2,500
Emanuela Feminine, sophisticated and effortlessly sexy, the Emanuela gown was inspired by the natural beauty with confidence and soul. Luxurious panels of French laces fused with modern geometric patterns and exotic trims create a piece of art. The silhouette celebrates the body, adding to this completely intriguing and individual design.
$2,500
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WEDDINGFEATURE
Mai Elegant, feminine and captivating from every angle, Mai is made for the showstopping woman who adores classic sophistication with fresh and unique influences. Giving the illusion of two gowns artfully layered, Mai features a breathable sheer stretch lace top layer with an abstract stretch lace under layer. The silhouette and contrasting features are highlighted by the stunning scalloped edge trim that frames the back, skirt and wrists.
$2,990
Megan It’s the gown named after Grace Loves Lace Founder and ‘The Dress!’ she wishes she had on her wedding day. Feminine, playful and infinitely sexy, the Megan is ‘The One’ we’ve all been waiting for. The stunning modern art rose embroidery is showcased magnificently in the full circle 3-layer skirt. The vastness and softness of the skirt comes to life with movement and is highlighted by the concealed side split. Handmade in their Australian studio and designed to highlight the décolletage, bust and waist; Megan exudes confidence, passion and is utterly captivating.
$3,100
Paloma Romantic, sophisticated and sexy, the Paloma was designed for the ultimate babe wanting a classic gown with edge. Perfectly balanced from every angle with a stunning strapless cupped bodice and our signature off-the-shoulder arm bands. The fitted silhouette, handmade with stretch lace, is softened with a centre-front opening in the skirt that allows for movement and flow. The delicate silver beaded trim around the arms complements the faint silver thread lace perfectly, along with the scalloped lace edge framing the bust, skirt and dramatic train. The Paloma gown will glisten when you walk, capturing the attention of all around you.
$2,100
Rosa Designed for world renowned fashion magazine Harper’s Bazaar, Rosa is made for the woman who wants simplicity, luxury and intrigue. A call out to modern art with its stunning contemporary rose pattern embroidery and elegant silhouette.The main oversized stencil rose embroidery is complemented with an under-layer of fine openthread geometric lace to create a sense of texture and variety of pattern. Lined with a nude lining which highlights the details in the laces.
$2,400
to see the full collection from Grace Love Lace visit graceloveslace.com.au www.byronlifemag.com 39
WEDDINGFEATURE
Venues on the menu Plan your perfect wedding in paradise. The Byron region is blessed with beautiful natural features and an abundance of talented wedding industry professionals. Make promises of love to your soulmate under the warm sun or a sky filled with stars, mere steps from the surf or within the serenity of the hinterland. Everything you need to make your dream wedding a reality can be found on your doorstep. Whether you desire to be barefoot on the beach or have the soft roar of a waterfall as your backdrop; it’s not hard to find a venue to suit your individual style.
Barefoot on the beach Dig your toes into the sand as you look into the eyes of the one you love. A beachfront wedding is a sensory experience; the breeze in your hair, sand underfoot, warm sun on your face and the smell of salt in the air. If this is your idea of beachfront wedded bliss, there are a number of venues in the Byron Region to help you realise your oceanside vows. Our pick: Clarke’s Beach is an ideal location for your seaside wedding wonderland. It’s relatively quiet and enjoys beautiful views of the Lighthouse, Mt Warning and Julian Rocks.
The class of a Country Club Experience the best of both worlds, at Ocean Shores Country Club. From the tranquility of hinterland views to the perfect panorama of the ocean, this venue provides ample options for weddings of all sizes. A popular choice is its Pacific Room, boasting magnificent ocean views stretching all the way to the Byron Bay Lighthouse through the long glass wall. You can include a reservation of the front deck for your special occasion, or the Koonyum deck which overlooks the beauty of the golf course and hinterland. You can schedule bridal photos on the golf course, and of course the beach is only minutes’ away, providing endless photographic and entertainment possibilities.
Romantic rainforest While Byron is most famous for its beaches, a lot can be said for the awe-inspiring beauty to be found beneath the rainforest canopy. Choose from the rugged and raw backdrop of nature untouched, or pick from one of the venues available with manicured gardens or a serene lake in the hinterland.
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The Perfect Venue Say “I do� at Ocean Shores Country Club, the perfect location for stunning wedding photos and a reception with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Byron Bay.
From intimate cocktail parties to lavish wedding banquets, Ocean Shores Country Club offers flexible and affordable menus, tailored packages and personalised service.
Orana Rd, Ocean Shores NSW 2483 02 6680 1008 | events@oceanshorescc.com.au w w w. o c e a n s h o r e s c c . c o m . a u
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WEDDINGFEATURE
Break from Tradition and Elope!
If you like it, you should put a ring on it… far far away.
JAW-DROPPING LOCATIONS THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO ELOPE
Top five reasons to elope
Just looking at these idyllic locations makes me want to pack my bags and leave immediately. Wait, I’m already married. Did someone say vow renewal? I’ll find any excuse to get prettied up and take some photos at these epic backdrops. So, for you lucky couples out there who are planning your vows, I hope this provides some elopinspo! LAKE LOUISE – CANADA
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Why we love it: Blue on blue on blue – your something blue is provided in spades at this picture-perfect location. The evening sun shines out from behind the mountain peaks, bathing you and your loved one in glorious golden light. It’s about as opposite to Byron as you can get with its stunning alpine mountains. Adventure abounds, after you’ve tied the knot you can cosy up beside a roaring fire, go bear-spotting and enjoy the surrounding ski resorts and spas in the snow.
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MAGICAL MIDDLE EARTH – NEW ZEALAND
Financial. It’s your opportunity to have a break without breaking the bank. Not everyone can afford the equivalent of a house deposit for what will be one day in their lives. If you’re thinking of taking a loan out to finance your day – stop. Ask yourself, is this really worth getting into debt for? Eloping can be a financially conservative option.
The focus is on the couple. Rather than a day planned around extended families, eloping can be a reflection of the couple’s true desires. Less pomp, more passion. Eloping can be a great way of completely doing things your way. You have a blank canvas, ready for you to paint and create however you please.
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Less time. Planning the perfect wedding takes a lot of time. You only need to look at traditional ‘planning calendars’ to see that the preparation starts at least a year out. Save yourself a whole heap of time by saying I do to simplicity.
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Enjoy the holiday. Why plan a wedding and then a honeymoon, when you can combine the two into one epic trip of a lifetime. You can choose almost anywhere on Earth to get married. Say “I do” on a deserted island? If you can find one, do it. Take your vows at the top of a mountain? No problem. Declare your love under a thousand stars in the desert? Why not?. Go where the wind takes you and declare your love there.
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It’s in the hands of the expert. Eloping is easiest when your destination of choice includes a simple wedding ceremony package where everything is included. If you’re not a natural planner, and if even the thought of arranging seating plans and canapés makes your palms a little sweaty, the elopement may be for you. From the celebrant to the beachfront flowers, significantly reduce your stress by letting someone take care of all the details.
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Why we love it: Wait, what? You can get married at Hobbiton? Yes, you can! Say your 'I dos' amongst the natural beauty of the Hobbiton gardens enclosed by some of the most impressive Hobbit Holes or enjoy the wide open spaces of Yard Flat which offers a stunning view, overlooking the set and iconic Party Tree. Step inside the masterfully recreated Green Dragon Inn as seen in The Lord of the Rings to continue your festivities with an ale! You can even run along the famous pathway yelling “I’m going on an adventure!” CHERRY BLOSSOMS – KYOTO, JAPAN Why we love it: There are few things in this world as delicately beautiful as that of blush cherry blossom. Find yourself one of nature’s most beautiful natural archways under a line of trees and you have yourself a stunning and inexpensive location to exchange vows. The cherry blossom signifies life, renewal, and brevity, which is magically meaningful as you commit yourself to another. It’s also a wonderful reason to visit Japan where you can extend your honeymoon to party in anime in Akihabara if that’s your thing! WHIMSICAL WHITSUNDAYS – QUEENSLAND Why we love it: To reach this epic destination you don’t even need a passport! You can fly direct to Hamilton Island from Sydney or Brisbane which will swathe you in a warm tropical feeling instantly as you step off the plane. Here, are some of the best destinations in the world to exchange vows, from the powder white sand of Whitehaven Beach, to above the iconic Heart Reef in a chartered sea plane or helicopter.
FINDING YOUR SOUL MATE IN THE SECOND HALF OF YOUR LIFE
Are you over 45 and longing for a partner to share a new life with?
Do you long tosaying feel love, companionship Do you struggle with “no”and ? respect in your relationship? But you that you are getting older and Do you spend lots ofworry time discussing become invisible as an attractive woman. how to create an acceptable story Or You even believe that men are only interested to get out of a situation? in younger women?
Do you worry about making up a false excuse and being found out?
T I
sexual life is liberated from the menstrual he good news is, that a women over Brigit cycle, contraception and childbirth. This 45 Pearl is well equipped to find love and life coach founder of Womens Wisdom is intriguing and inspiring to a potential create and a supportive relationship. She School partner. is experienced, self aware and emotionally n my counseling work, I observe that women This does not make for good relationships. Its intelligent. Men in their 50’s wish for equal partners. experience a lot of distress about saying “no” also not good for your self esteem. Lies create They love honesty and independence in Women in their are no longer distracted to requests by 50s others. Their solution is often to distrust, resentment, suspicion, distance and loss They are longing for a reliable by a make busy family lifeexcuse, or by the demands of thata woman. just up a fake instead of saying of confidence. woman, who is committed to a long term establishing a career. what theygiven, they simply don’t wantThey to doknow it. The reason relationship. At this age and Not a good basis forwomen intimacy and love. Not a way wantdo and enjoy. they not want to upset the other person. Lots men equally seekpain. good communicators, of avoiding of time and energy is burnt up in manufacturing Menopause is your call to fully let go of your person who is at ease and the perfect excuse and considering what reason an honest So how toAn handle it then?? to ‘say no” and roles as young spunk or sacrificing mother minded. interesting loverHow to be could be acceptable and how we get away with open create a good outcome? so that you can freely step up to being your active with and who brings wisdom and the fib. best self ever. intelligence into to their life.your truth with respect, love Learn how speak Why do we believe telling a lie is less hurtful and grace. Embracing this life change, allows women In our second half of life, we are looking for than admitting that we do not want to do to welcome the emergence of their “inner someone who enjoys exploring possibilities Be honest and compassionate;be civil and something? queen”. She is the experienced, intelligent, and values expanding through learning nice about it. Acknowledge the other persons’ The reason is self deception. Firstly,her we believe and spiritual and woman self-expressed woman, who speaks feelings,growth. such asMen being disappointed or let down. that the other person will not notice that lets we are are equally longing to revive a for sense of them hurt. mind. Her inner confidence and wisdom If appropriate, apologize causing lying to them. Secondly we and thinkelegance. that a ‘made up” adventure to liberate from the years her glow with inner beauty You could share oneself your concerns and feelings and reason is less hurtful than the truth. she of duty and chores. She is attractive and self-empowered, reasons for saying “no”. Tell them its not easy for you might not please the other person without demands respect and honesty. to say no. You can even tell them how much Here is the catch. Most likely they will sense thatWhatyou resenting them. Give yourself permission to look better time than our golden years to it would mean to you, if they respect your reason. you are lying, but offrom course they willpartner not tell you cultivate after your own needs first. Do not catastrophise these qualities in ourselves and Often a separation a longterm Sometimes a simple” I don’t like it” can create because it’s too Why? Because the outcome. Trust that they will get over it is a sign that theawkward. first half of our life has they relationships. clarity. Have the inner strength to accept that know can So they pretend because you have treated them with respect by come that to anyou end. Asnot weadmit enter to theit.second We are resourceful, know ourselves and can to accept theitfake excuse. However, inside they being truthful. stage in life, brings a desire for a partner, focus on our well-being and be of service still have an emotional reaction. How does it feel who is more in tune with our awakening It might feel scary at first, but the more often you to worthwhile causes. I encourage you to being lied to? wise woman. chose speaking your truth, the more practiced enjoy and welcome the emergence of a new Well, we all know liesacreate hurt, you will become. And you will feel good about partnership that takes you to wider horizons. As a woman in herthat prime, midlife disappointment, anger. How her do we react to yourself and be respected for your courage. Brigit Pearl woman feels a call to follow passion Be well, choose wisely. this? We lose trust in the other person and The that you have respect Life Coach andoutcome Founderwill of be Womens Wisdom Schoolfor and interest in life. She can fully explore we withdraw. The worst is; that we become yourself, peace of mind and are a trustworthy sensuality at her leisure because her - Bridgit Pearl suspicious, expecting they will lie again. friend.
WOMEN'S WISDOM Life Coaching - Counselling - Workshops p: 0403 747 442
e: womenswisdom@hotmail.com
w: womenswisdom.online www.byronlifemag.com 43
make over!
MINDBODYSOUL
Has been created by:
Model: Marisa Sidoti
MARISA SIDOTI’S MUDHONEY MAKE-OVER
BEFORE
Marisa came to us with all natural colour. Her base, a dark ash blonde with 50% grey. Our aim; to create a warmer, brighter look to enhance her natural colour and compliment her natural skin tones, whilst ensuring a soft grow out so Marissa can get longevity out of her colour.
STEP 1. Senior cutting specialist Anita Bauer Anita set out to create personality in Marisa’s hair by creating a style to highlight her eyes and cheekbones and also adding volume at the same time. A low maintenance style that enhances her hairs natural wavy movement. Anita visually Dry Cut Marisa’s hair to create shape and a fringe. This technique is key for all wavy and curly hair types as it works with the hairs texture.
STEP 2. Senior colour specialist Grace Bourke We did lots of fine highlights with L'Oreal colour alternating two different warm blondes. We then applied some soft balayage through the ends of her hair with a lighter colour to create more texture and brightness in the ends. To create a seamless end result we then toned with L’Oréal toner which adds shine and condition to the hair. STEP 3. Hair spa! Deep cleanse with Kerestase Nutritive and super lush Kerestase Fusio-Dose treatment to nourish and soften hair, creating a silky and easy manageable finish. 44 www.byronlifemag.com
MINDBODYSOUL
STEP 4. Marisa’s hair dries beautifully in its natural state but today we opted to created a more polished version of this style, using GHD hot tongs and finishing with Kevin Murphy Bedroom Hair.
STEP 5. Makeup guru Clare Moriarty
AFTER
Clare applied a light base of Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation to even out her skin tone and add a dewy, fresh feel. A little bronzer around her cheek bones and jawline to bring out her incredible facial features. She also dabbed a little Becca “shimmering skin perfector” in ‘opal’ on the highpoints of the cheek bones to give her a subtle glow from within, and gave the brows a brush and the lashes a swipe of mascara!
“My experience at MudHoney was totally satisfying. When you arrive the space is filled with beautiful natural light. Jess’s Style is impeccable and every finishing touch is included. Her eye for details and taste is beyond. After a consultation to discuss, cut and colour with her professional and wonderful staff the pampering begins. I felt totally understood in what I asked for and absolutely knew I was in good hands. An extra touch to the staffs great service was the massage chair at the wash basin, finished with a superb head massage with sweet fragrances from the delicious hair products. I was extra gifted by a professional hair style by Anita Bauer and make up session with Clare Moriarty which the end result was me feeling like a new woman. If you haven’t been to MudHoney yet, I highly recommend you book in for your new winter make over. Thank you Jess and staff for a superb day at the salon. I look forward to returning soon” - Marisa Sidoti -
HOURS 7 Days 10am–6pm and by appointment 13 Station Street, Bangalow NSW 2479
p: (02) 6687 2000 | w: mudhoneysalon.com.au www.byronlifemag.com 45
“Having Fun Could Be The Secret To Long-Term Weight Loss” Photo by @clementinebourke
If you are like most people, then you can probably think of many words to describe the weight loss journey but ‘fun’ is probably not at the top of that list. For most of us the chase for the ‘dream body’ is a gruelling, restrictive and disciplined routine that’s pretty much all work and no play - I mean, a few cheeky drinks on the weekend with your friends? Forget about it! Am I right? I mean, don’t worry, we’ve all been there! The weighing of every gram of food, the hours spent at the gym and the complete lack of social interaction - there ain’t nothing fun about that! I think we can all agree. And yet we keep putting ourselves back onto these crazy training schedules and ridiculous diets, why? Well for one, they seem to get results quickly, but it’s a double edged sword because it’s also the same reason why we lose the results so quickly. Life was never meant to be lived so seriously so when we cut all the fun out our lives to attain our idea of the perfect body, everything falls out of balance and eventually, the perfect body won’t be enough to keep us going. It’s just not worth it, if you’re not able to enjoy it. That’s when it all starts to unravel. We feel like a bird in a cage ready to break free and that’s exactly what we do, we rebel against the chicken and broccoli, the gym, the early nights and the hermit lifestyle and we “treat ourselves” to whatever we want, whenever we want and end up right back where we started. Not only did we waste all that time restricting ourselves but we didn’t even end up achieving the goal we set out to, long term.
THE SOLUTION? MAKE WEIGHT LOSS FUN! It’s important you find something active that you really enjoy doing, if you’re not lovin’ it, don’t force it. Maybe it’s a team sport like soccer, basketball or netball. Maybe it’s a water sport like stand-up paddle boarding, surfing or kayaking. Maybe it’s taking your dog for a run or doing a class of yoga. It doesn’t matter. Your body doesn’t care what activity you do, it only cares to be used for what it was designed to do... to move! Secondly, make your new healthy lifestyle social. Science suggests that social connection between human beings is a necessity not a luxury, meaning, cutting your friends out of your schedule because you’re on a health kick is just never going to work. It’s science. So instead of pushing them out, bring them right into the thick of it. You could invite your friend along to your new found sporting activity and make it something you guys do together. Catch ups with a girl friend and a slim waist!? Can I get an amen? In short, we all need to stop making losing weight so complicated. If you’re enjoying what you’re doing, you’re going to want to do it again. Do it again, and you’ll continue to get better at it. Get better at it and not only will you start to see results from your efforts, but it will get easier to motivate yourself. Before you know it, you’ll be doing it consistently, feeling great, looking great and there’ll be absolutely no reason why you would ever want, nor need, to back slide to where you started. - Sam Jenkins
Raw Holistic Fitness Personal Trainer, Nutrition and Wellness Coach p: +61400236691 e: sam@rawholisticfitness.com w: rawholisticfitness.com 46 www.byronlifemag.com
ARE LOST TEETH CAUSING YOU TO LOSE YOUR BITE ON LIFE? Losing a tooth is sometimes unavoidable but planning for a great outcome is easy with the right advice
B
ytes of Byron explain how a socket graft may be the key in creating a strong foundation for your tooth implant. “Ok, so it’s not the most glamorous subject, discussing tooth extraction that’s for sure! “But in today’s society as we continue to live longer, it’s a subject that one day we’re all likely to face.” There are many reasons why you may lose a tooth, from a decayed tooth that can’t be repaired to a failed root canal, trauma causing broken teeth or even simply breaking a tooth from biting on something too hard.
“Over the past several decades there have been numerous advancements in modern dentistry. As dentists, we can use granules of bone to replace the area of the extracted tooth which in turn provides this strong foundation and often creates a seamless pathway to implant placement. We call this a socket graft. Without a socket graft, having a dental implant often becomes more difficult and complicated, sometimes requiring specialist intervention.”
Often that moment is unexpected and you will be faced with making a rapid decision on the future of that tooth.
Socket grafting is an essential step if you are considering a dental implant because the graft will help maintain the natural contours of your jawbone. Dr. Bayliss at Bytes of Byron has studied under Professor Dan Brener (Prosthedontist/ Implantologist) at the Brener Institute in Sydney and is taking consultations on implants today.
“The best solution for a missing tooth is almost always a dental implant. It mimics a natural tooth very closely and looks and feels great. It does, however, require a good foundation and creating that starts when a tooth is removed.
If gaps in your teeth are making everyday moments in life difficult, or you suddenly require an extraction, visit Bytes of Byron and enquire about a socket graft for a better long-term outcome for your mouth.
Dentistry that gives you something to smile about • Bulk Billing for Child Dental Benefits Scheme services for eligible children • Teeth Cleaning, Filling, Whitening, Extraction & Wisdom Teeth • Invasalign system - a comfortable, predictable & virtuality invisible treatment to effectively straighten your teeth
Bytes of Byron - OPEN @ DAYS UNTIL 8PM www.bytesofbyron.com.au 6680 8066
Dr Leigh Bayliss
Bytes of Byron Dental ECONOMICAL ECOLOGICAL EXCEPTIONAL Book Now 6680 8066 www.byronlifemag.com 47
Leave Your
Ego at the Door
Have you ever noticed what happens when your ego comes with you into a room? It scans the crowd and whispers in your ear that she looks bad or you look the best. It picks your battles and joins in the conversations where you’re sure you are right. It feeds your panic and heightens your need to belong. It creates the feeling that everyone is looking at you even though they are not.
This is because the ego is connected to a person’s sense of self-esteem and self-importance. It is our outward identity, the image we project of ourselves to the rest of the world. It is our constantly running monologue and can often feel like our best friend. We are sure it is on our side; pointing out potential threats, reminding us of previous mistakes and busily thinking of our future.
and there are popular classes for meditation and yoga everywhere we look.
This best friend, however, might need to be kept in-check as it can be prone to exaggeration and often gets misguided. To understand why, it is important to look back to our history as humans on this planet.
The best way to achieve this is by following a path to selfawareness. There are a multitude of paths to take to achieve this, from mindfulness to regular exercise, anything that brings us into the present moment.
In primitive times we lived as hunter-gatherers and survival was our only instinct. Our identities and our egos were 100% dedicated to keeping us alive. These days the world is a lot safer, we have evolved remarkably and technology has created a way of life where everything is easy and often put in front of us.
Another important aspect to achieving this is recognising our inner-talk. Witnessing how we talk to ourselves, how we think of others and also taking note of the type of subjects we think about. When we slow our thoughts down and become aware of them we can identify what we like and do not like to think about and start taking control of that. A bit like a diet for the mind, we can then choose the most wholesome, most nutritious food to put inside.
As a result our highly tuned survival mind has had to protect us in other ways, often by imagining realities that do not exist. At its worse, it has become the inner voice inside of us; the source of worry, anxiety and suffering. It is constantly pushing us deep into our past, focusing on regrets and mistakes or worrying about an unstable future where we fret about things that haven’t even happened yet like getting a promotion at work or whether we’ll find our soul mate. As a result, this form of ego creates a struggle within that feels, for many of us, like we are unable to live in the present. There are so many people in this predicament that a whole movement for mindfulness has been created
48 www.byronlifemag.com
This way of thinking is so popular because some people understand the power of the ego when it is used in the right way. When we take control of our ego we can work with it to enhance, even transform our lives.
In addition to this we can begin to use the ego as a tool for manifestation, which is the art of bringing the things we want into our lives through the power of thought. This is a much better use of our highly tuned survival mind than allowing it to take control our thoughts with unnecessary worry about the past and present. So, the next time you walk into the room, try and leave your ego at the door. Instead of self-doubt and anxiety, think of the calm and present moment, remember you can control your inner-dialogue and train your ego to pick a better conversation.
WAYS TO ELIMINATE A NEGATIVE EGO 1. Choose love. Remember; love is the only emotion, fear is an illusion. As soon as you have a fearful or anxious thought, tell yourself “love did not create this thought, and so it is not real.” Gabrielle Berstein. 2. Never complain. The ego always wants to improve on the current moment. Don’t let it draw you down that path. Breathe. Find something beautiful. Focus. 3. Be grateful. List in your mind all the things you are grateful for. Your family, your health, your house, your job. Take time to really appreciate what you have. This trains your ego to focus on the positive.
HOW TO KNOW YOUR EGO IS IN CONTROL 1. You feel excited when gossiping about other people’s flaws 2. You won’t back down from a discussion until you have ‘won’ 3. You constantly compare yourself to other people 4. You feel jealous when other people do well 5. You talk about yourself for 10 minutes before asking another how they are 6. You’d rather win than do your best 7. You often sulk when you don’t win instead of being proud of your attempt to do your best
8. You set yourself impossible goals and then beat yourself up when you don’t reach them
9. You blame others when things don’t go your way
www.byronlifemag.com 49
Choc indulgence without the guilt Are you searching for that sensual sip of chocolate but watching your waistline? Chocoholics rejoice because there’s now a way to curb your chocolate craving and satisfy your sweet tooth with no refined sugar! Clean Tea’s range of Choc Teas are delicious, decadent and guilt-free. Easy to prepare, tiny on calories and rich in flavour, every cup provides a range of herbal benefits in a great-tasting beverage. Best of all, they are organic, vegan, soy-free, dairy-free and refined sugar free. Rejoice! New flavours in the choc range have recently launched, so now there are six delicious flavours, all with differing nutritional benefits, to choose from. Choc Chilli
Choc Cherry
Choc Mint
Choc Chai
Choc Coco-loco
Choc Beet
Handcrafted with love right here in Byron Bay, you can sample all of these amazing varieties in the six-flavour sample Choc Box.
CHOCO BENEFITS Rich in flavonoids which act as natural antioxidants, the cacao in these teas provide added minerals; magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc, copper and manganese. Check out the added nutritional benefits for each flavour on
cleantea.com.au or call into their store, located at the Arts and Industrial Estate on Banksia Drive. With free gift boxing, ice tea tastings, limited edition candles and bath salts, the boutique tea store is sure to impress. Come and experience Clean Tea in the heart of Byron Bay.
BLENDS WITH BENEFITS Organic, Handmade and Family Owned
NEW STORE NOW OPEN CLEAN TEA www.cleantea.com.au Shop 8 /4 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay 2481
50 www.byronlifemag.com
Get Pickled! Bottling, pickling, preserving and fermenting foods is an amazing way to add a tangy taste and hit of nutrition to our daily diets. It also has the bonus side effects of being good for our health.
A
t the conservative end of the scale, fermented foods can boost our immune system and ease digestive problems. It is also rumoured to cure baldness, insomnia, arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, AIDS, and in some cases even cancer. Put simply, fermenting food is a method of predigestion that takes place when there are beneficial bacteria naturally present. As these bacteria divide, the process forms lactic acid and this lactic acid halts the growth of bad bacteria. As long as the foods are kept under the liquid brine and stored in a cool, dark place, the product will last for months and up to years. Before refrigeration this method was an excellent way to lengthen the life of produce. The process helped develop wonderful tastes which we know and love today such as cheese, olives, pickled vegetables, salami, yoghurt and of course; wine!
One of the key claims for the health benefits of fermented foods is their contribution of live microbes to the existing colonies in the gut. These microbes exert powerful effects on our bodies; when they're out of whack they have been linked with intestinal and bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, immune disorders such as allergies and type 1 diabetes, and metabolism and metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and obesity. They've even been linked with mental health disorders.
KOMBUCHA TEA Kombucha is a fizzy drink made from sweetened black tea, fermented with yeast and bacteria and served cold. The yeast turns sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide, and bacteria called acetobacter, which are very common in the environment, convert the alcohol into acetic acid, giving it a sour taste. A small amount of alcohol may remain.
OLIVES If you've ever tried olives straight from the tree, you'll know they're very bitter and hard. Treating olives in lye (sodium hydroxide) or saltwater brine, or even just salt, helps remove the bitterness.
PICKLED VEGETABLES Kimchi, sauerkraut, dill pickles and other pickled vegetables can be fermented using lactic acid fermentation, where lactobacilli bacteria convert the sugars in the vegetables into lactic acid.
MISO, TEMPEH AND SOY SAUCE Fermented soybean products include miso, tempeh and soy sauce. Using desirable mould species and bacteria, the fermentation process breaks down phytic acid, increasing the availability of certain nutrients, and oligosaccharides, which can cause gas and indigestion.
source: choice.com.au
Lacto-Fermented Mixed Pickles Serves 8 • 3 tablespoons sea salt, pickling salt, or kosher salt (see Recipe Notes) • 1 quart water (see Recipe Notes) • 1 cup small cauliflower florets • 1 cup carrot chunks or slices • 1 cup red bell pepper chunks or slices • 1 clove garlic, smashed and peeled • 1 bay leaf • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds • 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns • 1-2 grape leaves (optional, to help keep pickles crisp) Combine salt and water in a measuring cup and stir until the salt is dissolved. (You can heat the water first to make the salt easier to dissolve, but it's not necessary. Let it come to room temperature before making the pickles.)
Place the remaining ingredients in a very clean, large jar (a half-gallon mason jar works well). Pour the salt water over the vegetables, leaving at least 1 inch of headspace at the top of the jar. If necessary, add more water to cover the vegetables. (Optionally, place a small bowl or jar on top of the vegetables to hold them under the brine.) Cover the jar tightly and let it stand at room temperature. About once a day, open the jar to taste the pickles and release gases produced during fermentation. If any mold or scum has formed on the top, simply skim it off. (If using a jar fitted with an airlock, you don't need to "burp" it; just open occasionally to taste.) When pickles taste to your liking, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. They will continue to ferment very slowly, but cold storage will largely halt fermentation. As a fermented food, these pickles will last for quite some time, at least a month or longer.
Recipe By Emily Han thekitchen.com www.byronlifemag.com 51
Byron Bay High School delivers a collaborative learning environment where students achieve excellence through our connection with community and land, creating holistic leaders of the future.
THE FUTURE IS OURS Byron Bay High School is a high achieving co-educational school that has expert teachers who deliver outstanding results for all students. Byron Bay High School, 2 Arakwal Court, Byron Bay 2481
p: 02 6685 8188 e: byronbay-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au w: byronbay-h.schools.nsw.edu.au
Why choose Mortgage Choice? Because we care about helping Australians afford to live the life they want to live. With specialist services available from qualified Mortgage Choice experts - both mortgage brokers and financial advisers - we’ll help you make better choices with your finances so you can focus on enjoying the things that really matter in life. At Mortgage Choice, we’ll help you make better choices for a better life. Janet Jenner Dip Mortgage Brokering, MFAA, JP Owner Manager
Suite 6, Parklane Suites, 62 Ballina Street, LENNOX HEAD p: 02 6687 5333 | m: 0418 813 903 52 www.byronlifemag.com
Shop 6 Alstonville Plaza, ALSTONVILLE p: 02 6628 6130 | m: 0418 813 903
e: janet.jenner@mortgagechoice.com.au | w: MortgageChoice.com.au/janet.jenner
the green thumb with
Maree Curran
eden at byron
Gardening in the shade One of the most challenging spots in any garden is heavy shade, whether from a house, fence, trees or indoors. We chat to Maree Curran from Eden at Byron to find out how we can effectively garden in the shade. “Plants are the ultimate niche-fillers in nature, so luckily for us, there are plants for every level of shade around the garden or inside. Winter can be tricky as the sun is lower in the sky, so we must be mindful that we aren’t planting things that require a lot of sunlight.” What is a tip to consider when planting in the shade? “Shady gardens don’t lose as much water to evaporation, and so it’s easy to over-water them. Pay attention to what your plants are telling you; if they look happy, keep doing what you’re doing.” What food is optimal to plant in June and July in a shady area? “It’s best to focus on non-flowering items. Consider leafy greens like lettuce, silverbeet, spinach, rocket, kale, Asian greens. Parsley, mint, coriander, sorrel, dill and shallots should also work. If it’s a really dark spot, even these might struggle. You won’t have much joy
with tomatoes, eggplants, cucumbers, capsicum or most fruiting trees because these need sunlight to stimulate flower.” How about planting food indoors for those without outdoor garden space? “Absolutely. The leafy greens are the best bet. You will need to keep the food and water up, and don’t expect plants to last as long inside as they will do in a more natural environment. Choose plants that are quick to grow and mature, and plant new crops often. Try to position your pot in a bright location, even getting a little sun during part of the day would be ideal. If that’s absolutely out of the question, you can always grow mushrooms! They don’t need any sun at all, some people even grow them in cupboards.” What ornamental indoor plants work well in minimal light? “My favourite flowering plants for indoors are peace lilies, phalaenopsis orchids, bromeliads, and, in winter, cyclamen. Winter is also time for cymbidium orchids at my place; these need some direct sunlight to form flowers, but then, once the flowers are developed, you
can have them inside where they will be just gorgeous for several months. “One of the very best plants for indoors in a poorly lit spot is the Zanzibar Gem, which will look absolutely stunning even in a really dark spot and it doesn’t mind if you forget to water it for a month. Because it’s really slow growing, you can keep it in the same pot for years. The Zanzibar Gem thrives on neglect, the perfect plant for the beginner or the time-poor plant-lover.” How can we add colour to shady spots in our outdoor garden? “The key is to play with foliage colour as well as flower. Lots of the plants we use indoors like ctenanthes, calatheas and bromeliads are also good outside in the shade in our beautiful mild climate. There are hundreds of different varieties, so there’s no excuse for a boring collection. There are also all the flowering shrubs like camellias, hydrangeas, plectranthus, cliveas, begonias and even azaleas and tropical rhododendrons that don’t need much sun at all. Heliconia ‘Red Christmas’ is a dwarf heliconias that flowers through winter in the shade. It’s lovely.”
140 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay, NSW Open 9am – 5pm Monday - Saturday 9am - 4pm Sunday. 02 6685 6874 www.edenatbyron.com.au www.byronlifemag.com 53
HOME&GARDEN
TO AUCTION OR NOT TO AUCTION?
People will often tell you that one of the biggest decisions you will face when selling your home is whether to sell at auction or by private treaty. But this is incorrect. We sat down with Chris Hanley OAM, director and principal of First National Byron Bay, for a valuable insight into the selling process. His advice might surprise you! “The decision to sell at auction or by private treaty is indeed a big decision, but if you have faith in the experience and market knowledge of your real estate agent, then this decision is one for them. A seller shouldn’t be burdened with this call, its one that takes years of market experience. The simple answer is that your real estate agent will know what will work best for each vendor and each property,” Chris said.
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First call… second call… third and final call…. SOLD! Do you recommend auction as an effective method of sale?
What are the benefits of going to auction with First National Byron Bay?
“Yes, absolutely. But for an auction to be effective, it must be handled by an experienced professional. Regardless of the market, an auction is the best method for selling for most properties, when done professionally, to secure the best price and to sell in a fast and efficient manner.”
“The key to a successful auction is an experienced auctioneer; one who is confident, can connect with the crowd and is experienced in ensuring the property is showcased at its best. Our company has worked with the best auctioneers for many years who constantly deliver exceptional results. Our agents are highly successful at delivering sales from auction, we are well-practiced and experienced. We are a large team with 10 agents who work together to produce the best results.”
What are the benefits of selling at auction? “It is a concentrated process. In most cases, an auction will deliver a higher selling price because of the direct competition of bidding on the day, but it is a fair way of selling as the price is open and transparent. A seller will often feel as though they have more control over the process. They set the reserve and the date of auction, so they know from the start when their house will sell and how much for. This allows them to start planning their own move with more certainty. Even homes that don’t sell at auction will often sell soon after. The average days on the market are less for homes that sell via auction versus private treaty.”
Is every property suitable for auction? “No, not every home or home owner is suited to auction. This is where the expertise of your agent to guide you in the most effective sales method comes into play. Not all sellers enjoy the quick-moving pace of selling at auction or the thrill of bidding on the day. So for this reason, we ensure that each property is sold in the method which is best for the property and the vendor.”
HOME&GARDEN
RENOVATING? FIND OUT HOW A MORTGAGE BROKER CAN HELP
Can I get a loan to renovate my property? Any renovation project, large or small, can be allconsuming in terms of your energy and money. Take the stress out of the financial side of your project with advice from your local mortgage broker. We sit down with Janet Jenner from Mortgage Choice to find out why engaging with a mortgage broker when considering renovation finance is a good idea.
“Mortgage brokers take the time to understand the needs of your individual project. We have access to a very wide selection of lenders, meaning we can search for the best available lending terms to save you money.” What type of loans are available for renovations? “Considering a renovation is a good time to look at your current finance to see if there is a better offer out there. “Loans can be increased with a current lender, or a new loan can be taken out without refinancing if that suited the project better. We look at the whole picture. We establish how much equity is in the property and advise if the renovation is treated as a construction loan or cash out for the purpose of renovations. We assist with the structure of the loan finance and compare interest and fees. “Refinancing could give you the opportunity to streamline your debt and potentially reduce the overall interest you’re paying through ‘debt consolidation,’ streamlining all of your higher interest debts into one lower interest debt, reducing your monthly repayments. “There are some great home loan features around at the moment, and refinancing could help give you some
of the features that weren’t available to you before. You might want to switch to a home loan that allows you to make lump repayments without fees or open up an offset account to reduce your interest. There are also features like getting a repayment holiday (a break from repayments), or the loan portability feature which allows you to take your home loan with you when you move without much hassle.” How can a renovation add to the value of my property? “If it is looked at as a construction loan then the property will increase by the value of the construction build price. Additions such as a pool can also increase the value. If it is a small reno, like new bathroom, then the client would be tapping into existing equity without greatly increasing the value of the property.” Is the finance confusing? “Don't let the complexity of organising finance get in the way of your renovation goals. We do all the work, so all that’s left to think about is the renovation itself. “We lodge the application and have approval in a timely fashion, so the client can quickly go through tender price negotiations with their builder. Does it cost more to utilise the knowledge and advice of a mortgage broker? “We provide choice, advice and do all the leg work with no fees added for our service. The interest and rates we pass on to our clients are the same as if the client went straight to that lender themselves. In many circumstances we can actually offer better interest rates and less fees through our ability to negotiate between lenders. Our fee is covered by the lenders, not passed onto the client, so it’s a wise decision by anyone wanting to save money on their finance.”
For more information contact Janet Jenner from Mortgage Choice 0418813903.
www.byronlifemag.com 55
COORABELLA - p r op e rt y r e v ie w -
C
oorabella is a magical rural wonderland fifteen minutes from Byron Bay, surrounded by rainforest, rolling hills and lush green valleys.
Internationally renowned jewellery designer, Giovanni D’Ercole of the Love and Hatred luxury jewellery brand, is the maestro behind this magnificent property. Giovanni has brought his skilled designer’s eye to the property, creating a space where luxury combines with a love of nature. The property’s spectacular location, together with the exceptional renovations has seen Coorabella emerge as one of the region’s most exceptional and celebrated estates; more an experience than simply a property. Giovanni’s next property adventure is a block of precious land in the snug environs of Wategoes Beach, Byron Bay. A fresh canvas where he can work his magic. After pouring 25 years of love and attention into Coorebella, he has now decided it is someone else’s turn to be the custodian of this treasure. The pool and house has been a sought after location for film and photo shoots for many well-known magazines and commercials. It has been highly in demand as a destination wedding location. It hosted the 2016 nuptials of A-list actress/producer Margot Robbie (“I, Tonya, Wolf of Wall Street, Neighbours). Jacinta Barrett
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married her beau Gabriel Macht there. Jacinta acted with Meghan Markles in the long running series “Suits” and was a part of the inner circle invited to the recent Prince Harry wedding. Set on 56 lush acres, Coorabella has a magical quality that cannot be built or bought. The magic comes with the land. A stream runs through the property (home to an abundance of wildlife
including the resident platypus) with frontage to the Wilson River, a large deep swimming hole and waterfalls. Standing among the majestic giant fig trees, wandering through the rain forest, exploring the tranquil waterfalls or swimming in the river below, it’s easy to see why the home, land and location was the inspiration for the iconic
PROPERTYREVIEW
Australian animation feature “Ferngully –The Last Rainforest”, based on the book by Di Young. Di wrote the script living at Coorabella, channelling the characters from adjoining dreamy backdrop of rainforest and natural waterfalls. While nature has taken care of the surrounds, Giovanni’s skilled eye and attention to detail has transformed the stunning 500 square metre Queenslander into a truly unique retreat. With
four bedrooms, four bathrooms and two studys, Coorabella offers spectacular views from every room, including each of the luxuriously spacious bedrooms. Outdoors, the 15 metre tiled swimming pool lies within an aromatic scented garden of gardenias and jasmine, with spectacular views over the valley. Framed by a 10ft high bespoke wrought iron fence and electric pool cover, the pool offers
My Business is to sell properties here in Byron Bay, in our beautful Hinterland and all our surrounding towns, to successfully facilitate between the buyer and seller.
the perfect place to relax or entertain. Real estate agent Ku Darroch is a long time friend of Giovanni, as well as a lover of this estate since he was also married there. This property is expected to achieve a price in the region of six million dollars. Mr Darroch is with Real Estate Of Distinction (0411 809 819) and is available to show interested buyers through this extraordinary piece of Byron Bay paradise.
Ku’ Darroch p: 0411 809 819 e: ku@reod.com.au w: kudarroch.com.au w: byron.reod.com.au
Byron Bay
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n o d r o w t e e r t the s
ow... n k y a m you from those
I spent 8 years travelling the world looking for my soul mate
Benjamin Eglington
Do you believ e in fate and destiny, te ll us why or why not?
I believe that we do have some measure of control over what happens in our lives
Awareness is what makes the difference, no t ‘fate and dest iny
Kathy Quinn
Shien Chee
CHINCOGAN STORE MULLUMBIMBY MU I do believe in both fate and destiny. I spent 8 years travelling the world looking for my soul mate. I returned to Australia thinking I would never find the one. The first place I had a job interview, I thought I wouldn’t get the job, but I did and on my first day, the first person I met I knew the moment I saw her I was going to marry her. Jessica the best 7 years of the rest of my life.
THE MULLUMBIMBY CHOCOLATE SHOP Yes absolutely, although I believe in Destiny, much more so than in Fate. Fate is a little too ‘fatalistic’ for me, as It leaves me with the impression that it doesn’t matter what I do as it all comes down to some great plan. Rather, I believe that we do have some measure of control over what happens in our lives. I don’t believe in coincidences. I think things happen for a reason and that we have to pay attention to the signs, listen to our hearts and then act. In doing so, we are fulfilling our Destiny.
SEEKER+KIND YOGA STUDIO • MULLUMBIMBY Perhaps what I believe is irrelevant. What matters is how I’m able to connect with any given moment, and this Awareness is what makes the difference, not ‘fate and destiny’. The idea of life being pre-ordained or immutable sometimes becomes an excuse to not make choices or take action when it may be needed. To acknowledge what is, and work in alignment with Truth to the best of my ability is what matters. It may be more useful to consider ‘How do I respond to fate and destiny’ rather than whether or not I believe in it.
COMING SOON . . . CLASSIFIEDS! Great deals for job vacancies and properties for sale
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FREE Community and For Sale Classifieds*
8 WEEKS EXPOSURE! * For items under $500
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With
Brett Munro
Shaping surfboards since 1974, Brett Munro is one of the few contemporary shapers who still hand shapes all of his models. He will be the guy who greets you when you visit his studio in Byron Bay. Custom shaping is his speciality. He was deep in the jungles of indo hunting new breaks before the surf camps, he was there for the rise of 'surf culture' and salty icons, and in this edition, he talks about the Art of Surfing.
F
or many of us, surfing has always been considered as an art form. From the very individual styles we all carry into the surf, to the shapes of our boards, and the various visual cosmetics that grace them. The art of surfing is all of this, from very conservative to the totally outrageous. One of the best parts for me is just the transition from the carpark to the paddle-out point, casting an eye around and taking in all of the variations in the equipment that we are riding these days, from the true old beaters to the contemporary. Remember there are really no boundaries as to how we can dress up our vessels. If you are having a custom made for you, you have the opportunity to get busy and design your own look. From simple foam sprays and pin lines to resin tints and fabric inlays. Hand-painted designs on foam, and or on the filler, with pens or brush, digital prints such as your mum or your favourite thing. Think of your board as a canvas and take a look around at the options next time you order a new shooter. Your art adds a bit of your personality and a visual for the rest of us.
Above all, enjoy your surfing. Brett – Munro Surfboards
Munro Surfboards 2/29 Acacia St 02 6685 6211 www.byronlifemag.com 59
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e y a h a l e Gatien D
A
s the school bus rolled to a stop on the top of a hill on a small Caribbean island, an excited grom would run all the way down, straight to his house near the beach, thinking about paddling out into the ocean and catching as many waves as he could.
He started bodyboarding when he was 7-yearsold and was a natural talent, after only two years riding the waves he finished third in the French Championship Junior Division. He started surfing when he was nine, his older brothers helping to stand on a board for the first time.
Now at 21 years old, Gatien Delahaye is a top young talent and pro surfer, travelling the world as part of the World Surf League. He was born in the north of France in a town called Lille, but fortunately for him, his family moved to the Guadeloupe archipelago when he was a small child. In a village called Petit Havre, Gatien and his two older brothers grew up in front of the ocean, with a nice left-break less than two minutes from his house. It was the best playground imaginable for a grom who loved to surf.
“Since that day, I couldn’t resist the lure of surfing. I pretty much threw my bodyboard away and started surfing every day. I couldn’t imagine my life without the feeling that surfing gives you,” he said.
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Surfing in Australia had always been a dream for Gatien after watching iconic locations like Snapper, Kirra and the Pass in videos. The long waves, turns and barrels were calling him. With the World Qualifying Series Tour, he has had the
epic experience of surfing all over Australia for the past three years in a row. He and his brother would rent a gnarly van and go on missions up and down the coast, staying in the van and going with the flow. A group of his surfing brethren drove from Sydney to Byron, and it was here, he felt a connection with the surfing community. “As soon as we arrived, I remember saying to my brother, ‘I already love this crazy little town!’ We stayed for a couple of days between two events, but after surfing the Pass and Tallows, I felt like I was living the dream and didn’t want to surf anywhere else.” It was also here in Byron that Gatien met his girlfriend, local Elise Trigger. “It’s a long story but it’s a pleasure re-living the
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moment. I was walking in Byron Bay when I saw that girl from afar walking in front of me. I don’t know why, but I had that feeling that I had to talk to her. After introducing myself, without knowing her, I could already feel very much that we had a connection straight away. “I tried to see her again before I left for a competition in Manly, but it would be two years before we saw each other again. We kept in contact the whole time. When I got back to Australia again we finally had time together, surfing, cruising and living it up in Byron. It was too good.” When in Byron, Gatien’s favourite place in the froth is the Pass.
“You can ride the waves for so long. There’s such a good vibe and respect for each other out there in the water. You can bring every kind of board to the beach; single fin, twin fin, long board with fins or without. To be able to surf any kind of equipment out there is such a pleasure and an amazing thing, some of those moments out there were the best for me,” he said. Being a part of the World Surf League means Gatien spends most of his life travelling. He started doing the European Junior Tour when he was 15 and based himself in the Southeast of France, for easier access to the European competitions. He advanced into the World Qualifying Series at 18, where he’s lucky if he
gets to spend two months of the year at home in Guadeloupe. “You’re always on the move, I pretty much live everywhere and anywhere. There is a lot more behind the series than just travelling though, there’s a lot of training. You’re there to win, fighting for first place out of thousands of surfers coming from all over the world. It’s great fun and hard work. Travelling has also led me to understand how lucky I was to grow up on an island with friendly people and amazing support. It’s made me feel super blessed,” he said. We can’t wait to catch Gatien frothing back in Byron again soon. www.byronlifemag.com 61
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Down-to-earth and chatty yet humble, Elise Trigger is a true salt-of-the earth local who has found herself in the froth. As an 18-year-old who has finished school, she is floating with a desire to make others happy. She has a conscious passion for fashion, a yearning to offer warmth to children who most need love and has wisdom beyond her years on thoughts of comparison on social media. We caught up with Elise to find out how surfing has helped shape her life. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT GROWING UP BYRON-STYLE?
HOW DOES SURFING HELP YOU APPRECIATE THE TRUE MEANING OF LIFE?
“I am very lucky to be able to call myself a true Byron local. The thing I love most about Byron is the acceptance and open-mindedness everyone has towards each other, whether it’s walking down the street and watching buskers, street artists, fire twirlers etc. Whatever it is, everyone here is so supportive and intrigued to watch and admire, enabling you to flourish into your truest self through each passion of the individual.”
“I think that everyone should be a little more humble. I hate the way we are beginning to think we are more superior to everything around us especially mother nature. I find it so important to treasure the things that provide us with everything we have, because in the chaos of cyclic life, working and paying bills, it’s easy to forget the reason we are here, mother nature. I find it nice to stop for a moment and appreciate the little things and surfing offers this opportunity, we can never be grateful enough!
WHAT DREW YOU TO THE OCEAN? “I remember Dad and I paddling out to this pod of dolphins, me on the front of his board and being so excited. Being in the ocean always has given me a thrill like no other and the large power mother nature has I will forever respect and be in awe of. As a little kid it was something I was always nervous about, it wasn't until the age of 14 until I became brave enough to start surfing in the ocean.” HOW HAS SURFING SHAPED YOU INTO WHO YOU ARE TODAY? “It helps me every single day no matter what the problem is, as soon as I step into the water I become present to the moment, everyone who knows me from surfing knows how happy I am in the water, I can’t think of a single surf where I have been in the water and not smiled at least once.” HOW HAS SURFING HELPED YOU THROUGH A DIFFICULT TIME? “When I was 14, I got diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it was pretty odd and alienating at the time and I went through moments where people would try and tell me what I could or shouldn't do, who I am or how my life should be. The confidence surfing has given me, as well as the push to face my fears, has helped me grow into the person I am, teaching me to never doubt myself or take on negativity.” 62 www.byronlifemag.com
“Don't get trapped into comparing real life with small snippets you may see over social media, tv or magazines. I think it’s important to put down your phone and spend time with the people who mean the most and places that fill you with happiness. “It’s things like this that shape who you are as a person, not online profiles.”
Laure Mayer
Surf Better and
Injury Free Evolve Physio & Pilates
This year we were super excited to welcome our first sponsored athlete, long board surfer, Laure Mayer. Laure came to Evolve Physio & Pilates seeking services for a chronic shoulder injury that was keeping her in pain and out of the water. The separation distress from surfing was mounting but we were able to assist by getting Laure back to health and back on the waves where she belongs! Laure is such a legend, we wanted to assist her further with ongoing strength and conditioning to improve surf performance, minimise the chances of future injury and help reach set goals. Laure now attends our weekly surf conditioning classes and we attend to her body with physio treatments and sports massage as necessary. Laure’s ability on the long board has turned a lot of heads in Byron and she has built a strong connection with the waves and the surfing community here. Shortly after she arrived in Byron Bay she also followed her dream to create the perfect surf outfits for women.
We caught up with Laure after a surf conditioning class to find out some more about her surfing, life and business. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SURFING? “I first got into surfing around 14 years old when our local surf club was created in my home town of St Jean De Luz in the Basque Country. I started to take it more seriously though around age 19 when I bought my first longboard and had a car to go surfing by myself. Since then I haven’t stopped and the addiction keeps growing every day!” TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE BEING INJURED, THE REHABILITATION PROCESS AND WHAT YOU LEARNED FROM IT? “This was the first time I was injured seriously enough to be out of the surf. It made me appreciate
how vital surfing is to my life and how important it is to take care of my body outside of surfing to prevent injuries. The rehabilitation process was definitely a good learning journey to understand that.” HOW HAS STARTING SURF CONDITIONING AT EVOLVE HELPED? “Surfing demands a lot of your body, it’s an intense sport that you practice out in an environment that isn’t always gentle. It makes you stronger for sure but it only gets those ‘surfing muscles strong’ which leads to muscular imbalances. If you don’t work out the opposing muscles you will cultivate weakness and poor movement patterns and risk more injuries. The Surf Conditioning classes with Scott offer the solution for this, incorporating Reformer Pilates, Foundation Training, TRX Training, ‘Swiss’ Ball exercises and other corrective movement patterns appropriate to surfing. Being a Physio you can be
assured he doesn’t miss a detail, I can be sore for a couple of days after a class but then always feel more stable on and off the surfboard.” WHAT ARE SOME FUTURE GOALS WITH SURFING? “I truly just want to keep getting better and continue travelling the world for logging events whilst promoting my women’s surf label ‘Lore of the Sea’ (www.lore-of-the-sea.com) & my sponsors.”
Surf Conditioning Classes at Evolve, Monday: 11-12pm Intermediate, Weds/Fri: 1-2pm advanced. We offer 18 Pilates and speciality group classes a week. All Classes are rebatable through Private Health Funds, check our website for more details. Booking essential 0416749746.
A Team Of Experts Committed to Helping Clients Get The Best Result Possible
• Physiotherapy • Clinical Pilates • Sports Massage • Meditation
Wellness Centre Byron Bay www.evolvebyronbay.com.au
Unit 1b/11 Banksia Dr, Byron Bay | 0416749746 www.byronlifemag.com 63
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WINNING PHOTO
“Nature is the essence for me and my photography; the waves, surfers, landscapes, wildlife, sunsets. I love all of it.” Originally from South Africa, Jaylene Rutherford moved to the Whitsundays from the young age of 11. In her early 20’s she moved to Byron Bay after time spent travelling through Central America and Canada. She believes that her desire to travel and see the world is one of the greatest inspirations behind her photography. “I’m most inspired to take photos when I travel. When I’m not surfing or taking photos, I’m working to save for the next trip,” she said. Her love of photography came from her mother. “She always had the best cameras to play with when I was growing up, I think that started the interest.” Jaylene shares a hair salon @ heartfirecollective and works with the Cape Byron Kayaking company during the week. Although photography is her hobby, she recently completed a photography course, to ideally work as an assistant photographer and one day own her own business. She travel blogs for @radkind and provides images for her blogs.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR PASSION FOR SURFING AND CAPTURING SURF BEHIND THE LENS. “Surfing is my favourite activity in the whole world. I love everything about surfing and the ocean. I enjoy seeing people in their element out in the water, it is such a natural and beautiful thing. I think that’s probably why surf photography is so fun, people are doing what they love, and you can see that in the images. You learn so much about yourself in the ocean and you learn to respect it.” TELL US ABOUT THE DAY YOU TOOK THIS SHOT “The waves were big, and I was out of my league; people were bouncing off the reef everywhere. A big wave broke on my head which terrified me, so I scrambled back to the boat with my tail between my legs to take photos. A much safer option.” If you are currently searching for an assistant photographer, Jaylene would love to hear from you at @jayzephne.
For your chance to have your photo printed in our next edition, keep an eye out on our Facebook and Instagram pages for our photography competition.
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E H T y l f l a i c o s
Discover Your Pas sion, F Short Co ind Your Pur urses to ignite yo pose
ur fire y Colleg with Byron e
Communit
SEEDS, SHELLS, STICKS AND STONES
LEAD LIGHTING FOR BEGINNERS
SUN 17 JUN - SUN 08 JUL 2018
SAT 30 JUN - SUN 01 JUL 2018
Are you a collector of natural or beautiful man made objects, feathers, buttons, material swatches, beads? This course will focus on teaching skills and techniques to collate, create and construct one -off, individual signature artworks for wearing or displaying. Combine your collection into a distinctive, quirky, eccentric or quiet piece for contemplation.
Indulge yourself in the incredible beauty that is stained glass. Perhaps you would like to convert a plain window, or make a feature out of that dull door. Learn the traditional techniques of leadlighting and create your own exquisite panel to take home. Additional materials $55.
10am - 2pm - 4 sessions: $179
9am - 5pm - 2 Sessions: $199
LIGHT PAINTING PHOTOGRAPHY SAT 30 JUN Light painting engages photographers with the technique of capturing a moving light source whilst taking a long exposure photograph with your DSLR Camera mounted on a tripod. Be inspired, produce exciting abstract images, gain feedback, explore photographic creativity and learn the essential camera techniques for artistic light painting photography with one of Australia’s leading freelance photographers
3pm - 10pm – 1 Session: $119
BAMBOO BASICS
REIKI LEVEL 1
MON 18 JUN - TUE 21 AUG 2018
SAT 09 JUN - SUN 10 JUN 2018
One of the most intensive “hands on” bamboo courses available in Australia. Using the world’s most sustainable material you will learn how to grow and maintain bamboo for both timber and shoot production, how to harvest and preserve poles and the basic building and craft skills to enable you to tackle large or small bamboo projects.
Reiki is a gentle Japanese method of hands-on energy healing that works on all levels of a person and is simple to use and easy to learn. You will learn how to Reiki yourself, children, pets and plants. You will receive an attunement into Reiki level 1, an ancient healing symbol of protection and a certificate on completion. This is a healing journey open to everyone for a relaxing and inspiring workshop. Empower yourself today and bring this ancient healing art into your life.
9am - 3:30pm – 12 sessions. The course free, resource fee of $100 applies For full details and more course options go to byroncollege.org.au or call 02 6684 3374
10am - 3pm - 2 sessions : $125
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E H T y l f l a i c o s SPLENDOUR IN THE PARK FRIDAY 20TH – SUNDAY 22ND North Byron Parklands One of Australia’s favourite festivals returns to the region this July. With plenty of on-site camping, Splendour creates its own community for a weekend that is a heady mix of contemporary performing arts. Headlined by Kiwi singer-songwriter Lorde, indie heroes Vampire Weekend and rapper Kendrick Lamar, this year’s Splendour lineup also features the likes of Khalid, The Wombats, CHVRCHES, Miguel, Franz Ferdinand and MGMT A long list of homegrown acts are also featured, including Hilltop Hoods, Angus & Julia Stone, Gang Of Youths and (of course) Dune Rats. Check out the full lineup of over 100 acts. Loved by music fans as much as by musicians, the festival offers plenty of other attractions beyond the main stages.
For more information: www.splendourinthegrass.com
THE SECRET PARLOUR | A DARK CABARET SATURDAY 9 THE JUNE 7.30PM AT CLUB MULLUM The Secret Parlour is a wild evening of Brecht-influenced cabaret song, glamorous showgirls, flamenco, absurd sketch humour and outlandish, heartfelt characters, all woven together with live bohemian gypsy swing.
DAN SULTAN SUNDAY 17TH JUNE AND MONDAY 18TH JUNE AT THE BRUNS PICTURE HOUSE After wowing audiences at WOMADelaide and Bluesfest, Dan Sultan has announced that The Brunswick Picture House will be the only Northern Rivers show on his intimate Killer Solo Tour. Stripping back to basics – just Dan Sultan, his piano and guitar.
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FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL 2018 SUNDAY 24TH JUNE This is the 3rd Friendship Festival held the day after the iconic Lismore Lantern Parade. A weekend celebrating 'all things Italian'; Italian fare, dancing, music, language abounds. A great day to spend with family and friends.
WOMEN LIKE US 7.30PM ON SATURDAY 4TH AUGUST ELEMENTS OF BYRON, BYRON WRITERS FESTIVAL Women Liks Us began as two chicks with a passion for factions, family and feminism. Today it's a vibrant in demand touring show that has put these two powerful stand up comics in front of over 30 000 people. Women Like Us is disarmingly honest, the two women let loose on their failures to parent, their failure to really do anything properly really, all delivered with an unbridled joyous thrill as they share observations on getting fatter, older, tireder, less relevant and of course, lets not forget their disenchantment with the beauty industry! Women Like Us the full show is being performed especially for the Byron Writers Festival to accompany their attendance as guest writers and panelists.
Tickets are $35 and available at byronwritersfestival.com/feature-events
BYRON WRITERS FESTIVAL 2018 FRIDAY 3RD – SUNDAY 5TH AUGUST For three days in August, more than 130 writers, commentators and thinkers will come together in Byron Bay to ponder the power of stories and the written word in shaping who we are. Now in its 22nd year, Byron Writers Festival has become famous for its relaxed and friendly vibe, open-air beachside location and compelling conversations spanning a mix of genres including music, art, environment, philosophy, health, politics, human rights and of course, memoir and fiction. The 2018 Festival is taking place over the weekend of 3-5 August at Elements of Byron, with workshops and separately ticketed events running throughout the week. Guests announced so far include local literary luminary Robert Drewe, prominent Australian artist Tracey Moffatt, Deputy Opposition leader Tanya Plibersek, You Am I front man Tim Rogers, crime sensation Jane Harper, Greenpeace CEO David Ritter and wellness writer Sarah Wilson, with the full program announced 13 June. For details head to byronwritersfestival.com or follow @byronwritersfestival
Byron Writers Festival, 3-5 August, Elements of Byron www.byronwritersfestival.com
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E TH social fly
Space ( Luck) Sphere Meet freak-folk ‘viola gypsy’ Anni M Fables “I had such gargantuan hands, maybe I should play viola instead!” By Ian Browne www.shamrocknewsmusic.com In the ‘Other Joint Café’ in Mullumbimby, after her gig there during the Mullumbimby Music Festival, I sat down with Anni-M-Fables. I love Anni’s CD Space (Luck) Sphere, the title itself reminds me of one of my favourite bands: Scotland’s Cocteau Twins. Anni’s fascinating music wanders along a truly creative Indie pathway. I’d like to suggest that Anni is a true ‘viola gypsy’, her music cries out ‘gypsy cabaret’. Playful, at times melancholy, the music; her voice itself, will surprise. Guests appear to delight with vocal harmonies, along with drums, tenor sax, banjo, organ and ‘toy piano’. A yearning viola forever leads the voyage; classical in songs like ‘3 Days’; hillbilly hoedown for ‘Alien’. This weapon of wizardry in hand as if stalling for a while, reluctant to pack her life-line away after it brought so much pleasure to those enjoying the musical treat, Anni gave me the warmest of smiles, as she joined me for a chat on the lounge. Finding familiarity in the human journey, Anni expressed her love of the tropical NW of this continent: “I lived in Halls Creek in the Kimberley for six months. It’s like another world, I loved it! Being among other languages, I felt like an alien. My time there was very special to me. I would love to travel Indigenous communities workshopping and mentoring kids in music, my dream job!”
Anni M Fables
What genres and their artists inspire you?
You were born in Tasmania, but where do you call home now?
All kinds of genres. I’ve been inspired by Patti Smith, Sharon Jones, Django Reinhardt & Stephane Grappelli, Antony and the Johnsons, Bob Dylan, Béla Fleck, Buffy Sainte Marie, Nick Cave & Warren Ellis, Jeff Buckley, Leonard Cohen, Gurrumul, Bonnie Raitt, St Vincent and Mazzy Star, to name a few.
Currently this glorious Byron Shire. How has a life growing up in Tasmania influenced the sound of Anni M Fables today? How would you describe this sound? Tasmania has strong traditional folk roots and these sounds have somehow crept from my childhood into melodies like those in “Alien”. Then there are blues elements in my vocal harmonies which trace back to my very first experience improvising, over blues progressions with my brother. Classical harmony also shows up in my instrumental arrangements, reflecting all those years of academic study. I usually describe the music I play as indiefolk, or more specifically freak-folk. It has a storytelling core and is basically acoustic, though the melodies, progressions and rhythms involved can span an odd variety of genres. Photo by Mary Matheson
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Photo by Mary Matheson
‘Space (Luck) Sphere’ was recorded by Blake MacKay at Adanac Sound in Vancouver. What is your association with Canada? Initially my association with Canada was a dear travel friend I met 10 years ago in Capetown. In 2014 I travelled to Alberta to catch up with her. I ended up staying for 3 years instead of 3 months, discovering a wondrous musical community in British Columbia and creating Space (Luck) Sphere along the way. Your use of viola is both beautiful and varied. When did you first begin playing viola and why did you embark on this journey? Thank you! Well when I was 12 or 13 years old and about two lessons into an illustrious
career as a violinist, my sweet teacher opportunistically suggested that because I had such gargantuan hands maybe I should play viola instead. After many subsequent years playing the most uneventful parts in many orchestras I finally decided that instead I was going to play exactly what and how I wanted to. This began a new leg of my musical journey - working out how exactly to create the sounds in my mind. What lay in the nuts-n-bolts of the song Alien? Where was this idea born? The seed for this song was a little trouble I had with border security entering a certain country one day. Around the same time that dinosaur Abbott was penning a bunch of legislation in Australia including data retention and the anti-terrorism bill and respect for indigenous peoples remained at its usual dismal low. I was inspired by a marvellously fresh and optimistic star child to express my gripes about the state of the world from their perspective. Photo by Mary Matheson
Within the chorus to 3 Days you are thankful of someone ‘tripping your ego’. Is this a moment in your life that humbled you; calmed the waters, or does it speak of feeling deserted by a loved one? Yes, greatly humbled. The nature of the ego can be so insidious and slippery, sometimes when you think you’ve got it worked out you’re actually more entangled than ever. It’s such a divine favour to have another human break through your BS and keep you real, however painful that may be. Where will Space (Luck) Sphere and the future take you to? Who knows! I’m going to continue to share music at every opportunity, play shows far and wide and fine-tune my skills of expression. A second album is starting to take shape and it will be exciting to see how that project gradually comes to life - I’d love to record in Australia this time around. www.annimfables.com
Amazing flavours. Unique blends. We’ve been roasting Organic, Fair Trade, Australian and Sustainably Grown coffees in Byron since 2005. Visit our roastery to taste our coffee, buy beans and more.
Unit 15-17, 1A Banksia Drive, Byron Bay Open 8am – 4pm Monday to Friday. Shop online at buncoffee.com.au
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FOODIES
meet the Waiter Antoine Faure-Geors That first morning coffee, for many, it’s as much a ritual as a wake-up.
The team at Targa know that perfecting that early extraction is imperative and work on a consistent cup to indulge that aroma-filled addiction. Waiter, Antoine Faure-Geors, has been with Targa for two years. He mainly works mornings, taking a rush of coffee orders and delivering bountiful brekkies, and has an appreciation for how important that daily coffee can be. He jokes that he can’t deliver more than two coffees at a time until he’s had at least his third latte. Growing up in a small town called Briancon in the south-east of France, Antoine likens his home town to that of Byron in terms of beautiful scenery and the importance of tourism, but its altitude in the Alps bordering Italy makes it the polar-opposite in temperature during winter. Antoine moved to Byron Bay five years ago. We caught up with him to find out what life is like as a waiter at Targa.
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What do you enjoy about working at Targa? “I get to meet many interesting Byron locals, and we have an interesting melting-pot of people working together here who never fail to make me laugh. We have two Italian cooks, an Australian head chef, myself the Frenchman and there always, seems to be one or two Spanish around.” What do you recommend from the menu? “I just love the way we serve our snapper at the moment. It comes with a crispy skin in a tomato and saffron broth, which we do back in France a lot, and the flavours are just right. It takes me back home every time I get to taste it! Our gnocchi are better than most I’ve had in Italy myself.”
What do you do around Byron when you’re not working? “Well, I try to surf as much as I can, which is usually never enough, but almost every day, trying to dodge the crowds early in the morning. The rest of the time I’m talking about surf or thinking about it. I spend a fair bit of time reading too and just enjoying beautiful Byron Bay with my girlfriend. I also love to help her take care of the 300 plants that magically took over our house.” What is something about you that would surprise people?
How many glasses or plates can you balance?
“I’ve spent most of my childhood training and competing in rock climbing which taught me a lot of amazing values and a love for the outdoors. I’ve given it up for surfing which matches those values. The ocean and rock have a certain presence and strength in common, which amazes me, and forces you to work with it to get the best out of that element.
“I can pretty much balance on my head as many glasses of wine as I’ve drunk myself.”
“I think a lot of surfers would enjoy giving rock climbing a go.”
What wine would you recommend? “I really like the red Italian Chianti we serve. It pairs well with most of our dishes and it’s a really nice table wine by itself.”
Byron Bay
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Open 7 Days breakfast and lunch Dinners Tuesday - Saturday Aperitivo Happy Hour 4-6pm Tuesday - Saturday Genovese Coffee Bar opens 10am , drop by for just a drink Lights snacks through the afternoon Venue space for up to 65 guests
WINTER VENUE SPECIAL: Free Room Hire from June to Aug e: targabyronbay@gmail.com
Events at Targa Specialising in intimate events and pre and post wedding gatherings. Situated on the edge of town square, our corner venue includes indoor and outdoor aspects and a timeless and rustic backdrop perfect for any style of event. Local produce features throughout our menu options and our full bar offers unique wines and delicious cocktails. Exclusive use hire available.
11 Marvell Street Byron Bay NSW 2481 (02) 6680 9960 www.targabyronbay.com www.byronlifemag.com 71