Holistic Living - Issue 8 June 2015 by Holistic Living

I s s ue 8 - JUNE 201 5

Photo ÂŠ Jade Hopley

KELLY FIELDING // Kelly is a passionate writer and we raw/vegan chef who combines her love of writing

CONTRIBUTORS +++

with her forays into health and wellness. Kelly has traveled and worked extensively across the world in health resorts, detox centers, raw to live simply, mindfully and sustainably.

Jade Hopley is the Co-

Her work is regularly published on several online

founder of Holistic Living and

journals as well as her own website ‘Bella and

HL Emagazine. She studied

Bhakti’ which offers information about plant-

BA Visual Arts at Southern

based living, vibrant nourishing recipes as well as

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photographer. Jade has a passion for promoting

JAMES O’MALLEY //

passions and dreams. A gypsy heart and lover of

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locals doing great things in the arts, environmental

James O’Malley is our resident

nature, Kelly finds inspiration in the world around

and humanitarian fields. She absolutley loves the

grapho , developing the layout

her and translates her visions into whimsical stories

Gold Coast surf lifestyle and wants to share it with

since it’s inception. He is a third

and edible creations.

the world. When she isn’t running around taking

year Graphic Design student

bellaandbhakti.com

Cross University and is an emerging artist and

food restaurants and wellness retreats, sharing ways JADE HOPLEY //

inspiration to encourage others to share their own

photos or writing articles for us, she hangs out with

from Wagga Wagga in rural NSW. With a passion

info@bellaandbhakti.com

local people living with disabilities. You can check

for all things print design and branding. Juggling

facebook.com/bellaandbhakti

out her work at

university study, competive kart racing, and ever

instagram.com/bellaandbhakti

instagram.com/moana_creative

growing portfolio of design clients. He prides

facebook.com/jadehopleyphotography

himself on being a rare breed of university student,

facebook.com/MoanaCreativeArts

one that is actually busy. Watch this space for details on how to view some of his work, but until then feel free to swing an email his way at james@ohmalleycreative.co

KATE CHIFFEY-GRAY // Kate is a free thinking closet hippie with a passion for defining the meaning of life. She moved to the Gold BENJAMIN STRAND //

Transformers Holistic Health with her partner

Artist, Environmentalist

Cameron. Kate is enthusiastic about life, she finds

currently studyingÂ EcologyÂ and

each moment whether labelled good or bad a

Conservation Biology at Griffith

Coast from Melbourne in 2012 and started Body

School of Environment. Father,

blessing. When she is not mentoring and training

Husband, Son, Brother, Human Being.

Yoga, studying Eastern Philosophy, playing with

Greg Howell is an ethically

baoks333@gmail.com

her 3 crazy pooches or writing musings for various

minded compassionate

facebook.com/benji.strand

magazines and online journals! You can connect

autocrat who stepped on the

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GREG HOWELL //

people in her studio she is practising Ashtanga

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facebook.com/BodyTransformersPTGoldcoast

even though this path is rocky & full of pitfalls is

instagram.com/katechiffeygray

committed to the end. Thank the cosmos he is also

greening events with Climate Wave Enterprises and

bodytransformers.com.au

sustainability path towards

with Kate through.

a passionate environmental activist with Surfrider Foundation & surfer which keeps him tuned. climatewave.com greg@climatewave.com facebook.com/ClimateWaveEnterprises facebook.com/EcoChallengeGoldCoast

CONTRIBUTORS +++

twitter.com/climatewave

“Just do it” moment between Jade and I. Every one of these

promote Nike, but I tell you what, their slogan rings true…JUST

members are also living these three words each and every

DO IT! I’ve had a couple of these moments recently and is a

day and without their creativity, enthusiasm, passion, love and

philosophy I’m trying to embrace more and more every day, so

guidance we would not be able to share the stories in the

in the spirit of getting out there, I have dedicated this issue to

following pages. I highly recommend you read our environment

these three little words.

article this issue, written by my brother Benjamin Strand. A

Issue 8 brings to you lots of incredible and inspiring people

thought provoking article discussing how we need to jump over

who have done just this…thought of something they would

our internal hurdles in order to really create a world that we want

love to do, and guess what? They just did it! Now they are

to hand down to our children and grandchildren. The author,

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living their dream lives and bouncing out of bed every morning

himself, a living example of “Just do it”.

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really looking forward to getting into the day. Local artist Jake

If there is one thing you, our lovely readers, get out of this issue,

Dylan creates dreamy celestial pieces that are both beautiful

we hope you get inspired! We hope this gives you the courage

and though provoking, while the artists showcasing work at

to take that course you’ve been wanting to take for years, to

RAW in Brisbane this month express their view of the world

book that trip to Thailand you’ve been dreaming about (personal

through photography, mixed media and painting. Tom and

experience), to start a business you dream of or even to cook a

Emma Lane from The Farm at Byron Bay packed up their high

dinner you’ve been wanting to cook for ages. I hope you enjoy

flying corporate jobs in Sydney to watch their passion and dream

this special inspirational issue and I thank my team Jade, James,

literally grow right before their eyes and Adam and Anya from

Ben, Kelly, Kate and Greg for being the best muses a girl could

Peace, Love and Vegetables are self-confessed health nuts who

ask for!

Just do it! And no I haven’t sold my soul and decided to

EDITORS LETTER +++

have built a beautiful business creating therapeutic food. I am blessed to have an inspirational and passionate bunch of souls around me creating HL, which in itself was very much a

Love Josephine x

H O L I S T I C L I V I N G

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JAKE DYLAN

RAW BRISBANE

THE FARM

yugambeh mobo

JUMPING HURDLES

LOUD GOES BANG

MKO

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Peace, Love & UNPRECEDENted INtERNATIONAL VEGETABLES Addiction SURFING DAY

046 THE PERFECT MALE

ART ART

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Being an artist myself, everyday I am acutely aware of all the amazing talent

Words Jade Hopley, Pictures Care of Jake Dylan Burgess //

JAKE DYLAN Burgess

we are surrounded by both locally and abroad. I recently joined a Facebook page called ‘get my art recognized’ It’s a wonderful community of artists, sharing their work, encouragement and advice. This is where I found this issues feature artist Jake Dylan Burgess. Jake posted one of his paintings, and I was immediately drawn to it. I commented and asked where I could purchase his work. He directed me to his Facebook Page. It turns out Jake is from the Gold Coast and we were already “Facebook friends”. (What a small world we live in!) So I messaged Jake and organized to meet up with him and have a chat about his art practice. We had a giggle about how neither of us knew how we were connected but agreed that synchronicity was a wonderful thing. To date this is the most interesting interview I’ve ever conducted and I am really excited to see Jakes career blossom! 6

How did you get into art? I started drawing when I was around 8 years old. At night I had a lot of insomnia. I figured well, I couldn’t get to sleep so I might as well do something practical with my time. I was into making stories up, creating characters and what not. Coming up with story lines for the characters and getting right into the psychology of each character. So then I guess I just started drawing them, beefing them out, so I could get the reality of what they look like and what not. So that’s sort of how I got into art first off. I got really into H

coming up with characters in my mind on the spot

instead of copying them and coming up references and

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things like that. What mediums do you work in these

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days? About 9 years ago, I got into painting and using

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whole body of work, and I think over a year I pumped out

“ At night I had a lot of insomnia. I figured well, I couldn’t get to sleep so I might as well do something practical with my time. I was into making stories up, creating characters and what not.

metaphorical stuff. I decided I wanted to come up with a

different mediums. I do a lot of different conceptual work,

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like 14 works. These days I go between acrylics, graphite, inks, pencil, and watercolors stuff like that. I did try to get

your art related well to holistic living in a way… Can you please explain

into digital art, but I feel I’m a bit of a traditionalist in a

what you meant by that? Oh yeah yeah yeah. Well I think it’s because when I

way, I just really love getting hands on. I love it absolutely.

was young I had severe depression and in high school I used art as an escape

Where do you want to take your art practice? I guess

for me. After high school, I started getting really healthy, I started eating well

my main goal is I’d really like to continue making a story

and looking after myself, doing really healthy things, and then my art sort of

line, with my own Australian characters, locations and stuff

changed through that. All this conceptual work sort of works with concepts

like that. And, just selling my work, into the future. That

such as transformation, transformation of the mind…stuff like that, because I

was always my main goal, the stories. But over the past

think my art has always been a big play on the mind. So a lot of symbols and

few years I’ve also really gotten into creating individual

what not, (butterflies) started to appear in a lot of my paintings as a symbol of

works, conceptual pieces. So a bit of both I guess. When

transformation. Before this a lot of my work used be really dark, and it turned

I first approached you, you mentioned that you felt

around a lot. 7

I’m really into metamorphosis, I really like the idea that a caterpillar can come out of a cocoon and just have wings and be able to fly around and stuff like that. I think it’s a good metaphor, a lot of it has to do with psychology. I guess I put a little bit of lots of different things into it, I wouldn’t say I’m religious or spiritual. I G

really get into different sorts of psychological and cosmological

concepts…like, I REALLY get into big bang, physics, micro and

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insignificant, sort of like the flap of a butterfly wings creates a

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monsoon across the other side of the world, that sort of thing. I guess that’s what all my work lately has been about. Can you

us being fragments. It makes everything else significant, not

macro cosmos and what they mean, and I really like the idea of

tell me a bit about the work that I seen on Facebook, which prompted me to contact you? Oh ‘When space is needed?’ Yeah I think that one popped into my head the other day. That’s usually how my works get started, I usually just sit there and my brain might be a bit quiet for a while and I’ll just be sitting and drawing and waiting for something to pop up, and then suddenly after a few weeks I’ll just have a bunch of images pop up out

of something. It’s interesting, I feel like when I’m drawing it, or when I’m painting it, I’m actually getting the meaning of what popped into my head…it’s almost like back tracking. So I always take a long time looking at them afterwards. I just sit back and look at them sort of basking in its’ completion, but at the same time sort of thinking about why I did things in a certain way. And I think that one is pretty basic, it’s about when you need space away from things, you know? Like I’ve had friends that need to get away from certain situations and people, stuff like that. That’s about all that one is about. Have H

you shown at any exhibition’s? Yes a few years ago, lately I

have been more focusing on working. But I had an exhibition

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at Shift Gallery, curated by Elysium Green and I’ve also been

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a part of the one-way street festival in Surfers Paradise that’s

What advice do you have for

been going for a few years.

emerging artists trying to break into the art community

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here on the coast? I guess, it’s all about networking and

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getting out there in the community; it helps if you already know a few people, like I did. Social media is great as well; get your name out through social media and networking. Do you have any upcoming exhibitions? Nothing planned as yet, but I do want to get another series of works out there, similar to what I did a few years ago and show them around somewhere. I haven’t picked a location yet, I still have a bit more work to do before it’s ready to show, but hopefully in the next month or two you’ll be seeing some of my works along the coast. You can find Jake’s work on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JakeScrawls

ART

RAW BRISBANE Words Greg Howell. Pictures Monte Rego Photography The day after the show was still with me, no not a hangover but what was intoxicating was the range of talent that collected at this stylish venue. The MET leant itself to a show like this with nooks and crannies where you’d find G

some more creatives to ooh & aahh over.

Ok where to start? And how do I do such a collection

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a bloody good one but to see what I mean you’ll have to

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get along to RAW anywhere, next one being on the Gold Coast 4 & 5 June, Soundlounge, Currumbin RSL.

you were at the show bad luck you’ll only get a sample,

justice, well with the space I have, I just can’t so unless

The artists within this story all apart from one were not so much selected as bumped into. I was invited by my good friend Alberto Monte Rego who was showing his photographs for the first time at such an exhibition, so I was there to help set up and offer support. Alberto has been a photographer for many years but has found resurgence in recent times when he purchased a water camera and started throwing himself over the falls into close out waves to get the inner feeling of salt water energy.

Alberto Monte Rego is not your typical new kid on the block. Although he started to appreciate photography H

at an early age, while flicking through hundreds if not

thousands of surfing and travel magazines, he did not

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begin to develop his own craft until later in life. His

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extensive travels have given him a deep appreciation of the

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oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surreal beauty. Now, he applies his experience in

the surf environment and the art of photography to create

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images of a beautiful, sometimes unseen, environment.

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See more of Albertoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning wave photography here. www.monteregophotography.com www.facebook.com/MonteRegoPhotography

in which to foster creativity through experimentation,

up I started chatting to Helen Corr

conversation and collaboration with others. SHE aims

who explained her collective. “SHE

to provide platforms for the dissemination of members’

is an Australia-based arts collective

works through exhibitions, books, eBooks and social

comprising three female members,

media platforms. The collective have exhibited a few

Samantha

times and created an ebook, with the highlight for SHE so

Adams,

Helen

Corr

and Erin Ashton. Each member

far being asked to exhibit with RAW at SENSORY”

of SHE brings a unique skill set

Searching through the nooks found Emeticart, Emma

and range of experiences to the

Livingstone a sweet young lady with an unusual statement

group as is evident in their quite

to make. “Emetics produce nausea and vomiting, and

different art practices which cover

their use is limited to the treatment of poisoning with certain toxins that have been swallowed.” - Encyclopaedia

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portraits,

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photography

media

“Think of my mind as an Emetic. My art, the vomit. My

pieces. Originating in the hallowed

ideas are the toxins that need to come out. Painting is not

halls of the Queensland College of

just a hobby. It’s a part of who I am. And I’ll keep vomiting

Arts, SHE grew from the need to do

to show you that.” For more vomit see Emma’s site

something decisive about the under-

www.emeticart.com

As I was watching the artists setting

range

from

the

architectural,

experimental and

darkroom

mixed

Britannica

representation of females in the arts scene. The collective recognized

Short & Sweet, that’s all folks! I hope I’ve given you an

that opportunities for female artists

insight into what to expect from RAW but we recommend

are scarce and took the pragmatic

you go and see for yourself!

approach of creating their own.

www.rawartists.org

The members of SHE endeavour to create a supportive environment

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BUSINESS

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THE FARm at Byron bay

Words Josephine Flynn, Pictures Jade Hopley // I have been watching and waiting with great anticipation for the opening of The Farm on Ewingsdale Road at Byron Bay for months now. On my regular trips down the road to good old Byron I’d find myself coming around the corner off the roundabout and immediately looking left to see what progress was made since my last drive past. Being a country girl at heart and growing up on farms, I couldn’t wait to get amongst it and find out what this incredible space was all about. Finally, I can happily introduce to you The Farm. Two years ago, Tom and Emma Lane were wandering around their hobby farm in Federal. Their three year old daughter, Matilda, had wandered off and when they found her, she was happily sitting down, eating the green beans she had just plucked from the stem. “We’d been visiting our farm for years to get the kids away from the city and learning about where their food comes from. But in that moment we knew there was more to this.” Tom explains. He, at the time, was working and running 14

part of the family business (fashion

about it and honestly I could tell a

retail house Oroton) and Emma was

few wanted to do it themselves but

a creative executive for advertising

didn’t have the courage.” And how

firms in Sydney and London. Neither

their courage has paid off!

of them coming from an agricultural

As well as being a working farm, the

or hospitality background, but both

property is home to a restaurant and

“ I t takes a family to raise a child and this is the same philosophy. This is not about us but about the collective of like-minded people all striving for the same goals. ” H

Blue Ducks in Bronte), a yoga studio,

Off they went overseas to research

florist, permaculture courses and

other farms and businesses similar

a bakery.

to what they wanted to create here,

working

namely Blue Hill Farm at Stone

create a gorgeous and bustling

Barns in New York. Originally, they

little community in the Byron Bay

were planning on a 13 acre farm

hinterland. Tom explains “It takes a

near Bangalow, however, when the

family to raise a child and this is the

80 acre property on Ewingsdale

same philosophy. This is not about

Road was available, it was just too

us but about the collective of like-

beautiful to resist.

minded people all striving for the

Packing up their corporate lives and

same goals. We are lucky enough to

moving their family to Byron Bay, I had

help facilitate it. Our ultimate goal is

to wonder if their family and friends

to Grow, Feed and Educate.”

ever thought they were a little crazy.

The environmental policy on the

“Not really.”

Tom responds. “They

property is strong and each business

could see that we were passionate

needs to adhere to The Farm’s

café (from the one and only Three

which everyone can enjoy.

with a passion for creating a space

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together

Each individual business seamlessly

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rules in regards to sustainability practices.

“Beyond

organic” is this philosophy, meaning the businesses are committing to spray free, chemical free and pesticide free produce. The first page of the delicious menu at Three Blue Ducks outlines their lengthy environmental policies including buying local (within a 700 km radius), using whole animals in their recipes (which change according to availability and season of produce), using rain water and even composting the waste from the bathrooms. When the tender for the restaurant space

went out, The Lanes had a flood of interest from local and international top name chefs, including Jamie Oliver. When Tom sent an email out to the boys from The Three Blue Ducks at 4:30am one morning, the five of them were on a plane at 11am the next day to come out and view the property and discuss how they could work together. “I knew straight away that these were the guys for the job.” Tom remembers “We weren’t after something corporate. We wanted people that would be here, hands on, and are just as passionate as we are about creating something that’s going to change the way we think about and consume food.” And these boys ARE hands on. They even commit to working “on the farm” one day a week as well as

work in the restaurant, so not only are they creating the

their own food. “You don’t have to have a green thumb.”

sumptuous food we get to enjoy, but they are helping to

He said. “I sure don’t. I just have a passion to know how

grow it as well.

my food was grown and where it came from. It’s not hard

The property is not only a feast for the parents, but kids have

to start a small potted herb garden on the window sill or

a fabulous time out there too. Recently, I went out there

pop a few strawberries in a pot. It’s all about just giving

with a friend of mine and her two sons and we wandered

it a go and there is plenty of advice out there and most

around for hours visiting the chickens, pigs and hairy cows

people are willing and wanting to help. “

as well as a big play on the playground and tractor. I asked

If you’re wanting to find out more about this beautiful

Tom if this was a vision he had for the property when it was

place, Tom says the best way is to “come out for a visit”,

first conceived. “Absolutely. Someone said the other day

but if you’re too far away, jump on the below links and

this is the farm for the people. I like it. We want people

make sure you put it on your bucket list. You won’t be

to explore and learn about farming and where their food

disappointed!

comes from. It’s there to share. The feedback from the locals has been terrific. I got out of my car the other day in

www.thefarmbyronbay.com.au

town (the car has The Farm written on the side of it) and

www.facebook.com/thefarmbyronbay

a lady I had never met came running over and gave me

www.instagram.com/thefarmatbyronbay

a hug. “Thank you!” She said. “I have always dreamt of having a farm but can’t afford one, now I love visiting The Farm with my children.” Walking around the property you can’t help but feel inspired by the clean air, wind on your face, smiles everywhere, kids running and laughing and most importantly watching a working farm in progress and really seeing how food is grown and where it comes from. I asked Tom how to get started for anyone wanting to grow

CULTURE

yugambeh mobo Words Manasi Guduri (Yr 9 Somerset College Student) Pictures Jade Hopley // On Sunday, the 31st of May, the largest indigenous festival on the coast, Yugambeh Mobo, was held at Somerset College. Now in its second year, people from all over the coast were invited to join the festival that was jamN

packed with fun. From concerts to cooking, it was guaranteed that there was

festival, with many different talents displayed and learnt. In the Arts section,

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Workshops bustling with eager learners were a prime feature of the

something to look forward too.

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intricately woven dillybags, colourful screen-printed scarves and paintings

of all shape and size were proudly displayed. With heavenly smells coming

from the cooking class and melodies emitting from the singing class, it was guaranteed fun. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not the only one who wanted to join the cooking workshop, especially with those delicious master chef-worthy dishes.

Screen printing was a sight to see as colourful scarves were transformed into art of the finest quality. The workshops were available to all ages and it was amazing to see little masterpieces being created. With hand-painting, face-painting and friendship bracelets readily available, it was no surprise to see many people (adults and children alike), walking around with smiles on their faces. But we cannot forget the boomerang throwing stall, with skilled throwers practicing and not so skilled throwers learning, there were a few misguided boomerangs that quickly led to first aid! A delightful concert was performed featuring both modern and traditional songs, the Didgeridoo and we were even lucky enough to see a traditional H

dance and experience a dream-time story. Of course, food was available

with delicious hot and cold food and with the warm weather, there were

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more than a few sodas milling around. Even if you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to participate,

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there was plenty to look at, with gorgeous displays and talks; the festival

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was a wonderful display of the culture behind it. People from all ages were

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H O L I S T I C L

welcome to see the gallery and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure a lot of us went home with armfuls

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of trinkets and a bucket load of memories and experiences.

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Yugambeh Mobo ticked all the boxes for a great festival- food, music and fun! With such a great combination of culture and enjoyment- the festival brings a cultural awareness to the community. Not only did we get to experience the lifestyle of the Indigenous culture, we also were able to commemorate the sacred land that the festival was held on. Everyone there experienced the aboriginal culture in its finest with traditional songs, dance, food and art. The festival was a huge hit and will definitely be one to look forward to in the coming year. The Yugambeh Mobo is definitely a festival not to miss.

ENVIRONMENT

JUMPING INTERNAL HURDLES Words and Pictures care of Benjamin

economy.

Strand // In the last two articles I have

bloke next door, everyone…Our

aimed to give you more knowledge

consciousness

and

pressing,

act within our environment, so let’s

destructive and current environmental

explore the ins and outs of holistic

issues like waste disposal and fracking.

consciousness and other internal

This article however has a twist. Most of

hurdles. There is no doubt that

you who read this magazine probably

Neo-liberal capitalism and western

have heard of the word “holistic”, do

consumer culture is impacting and

you really know what it means? I want to

transforming the natural environment

explore a subject dear to me and I hope

in devastating ways. According to the

to lead off from this and give you all

UN Sustainable Development platform

positive tools to help achieve balance

“Earths biodiversity is continuing to

and environmental responsibility.

decrease at rates of 100-1000 times

It has been widely agreed upon that

their pre-human levels”. We have

information

It is us, you, me, the dictates

how

“ I t takes a family to raise a child and this is the same philosophy. This is not about us but about the collective of like-minded people all striving for the same goals. ” attitudes on an internal individual level

lost close to 53% of our land based

need to change from individualistic

biodiversity in the last 40 years, carbon

thinking to a global, interconnected

levels reached the tipping point of

holistic understanding of our position.

450ppm (parts per million) this year,

The biggest hurdle to creating an

plastic debris in our oceans is now

environmentally

omnipresent and we consume those

responsible

society

is not science, technology or the 22

toxins

through

biomagnification.

I could go on but it’s too long to list everything here; you

continue this unethical, market-centric, selfish society then

get the picture. Knowledge of sustainable and responsible

we are doomed to collapse. After all, the market is a good

environmental practices has been around for centuries in the

servant but a poor master.

oral traditions of ancient cultures, in the western world we

That brings us to another question. What does “sustainability”

saw a huge leap in the 70’s and 80’s with the establishment

mean to you?

of the UNEP and similar organizations, the widely acclaimed

ensuring there is enough left to meet the needs of future

“Brundtland Report on Sustainable development” came out

generations? Or is sustainability just another word attached

and much more recently with the advent of social media

to hope?

and the internet we can report atrocities, join groups, sign

don’t we mean that we want the ability to continue a

petitions and think more globally. So why has it been such a

defined behaviour indefinitely? If that’s the case, then we

slow race? Do we truly care about the earth and everything on

want to continue living our lifestyles, the consumer driven

it and in it? What stands in the way of a truly Eco-conscious

selfish ideals without too much turmoil. However, as stated

society RIGHT NOW? Our addiction to Money…

previously, the western model is completely and utterly UN-

Capitalism is driven by the market, and the market thrives

sustainable and personally I am ideologically against the

on infinite growth. It relies on supply and demand of finite

idea of the sustainability of a system that I do not believe

resources and those resources all come from one place,

in. That might be a hard pill to swallow, and I understand if

Earth. The environment is plundered, pilfered, exploited and

it is too abrasive, but just think about it. Is being “Eco” and

still seen as an “externality” when economists do their profit

“Organic” just another fad to be exploited? Or can we make

and loss statements, so the source of all their commodities

it into the beautiful, progressive, ethical movement that it has

isn’t even taken into as much account as it should, yes we

the potential to be.

are seeing pockets of Eco minded businesses doing the

That’s where our individual consciousness comes into play

right thing, don’t get me wrong, but what if ALL companies

and what it means to be holistically minded. Holism is a

had to account for their environmental damage in their

philosophy or theory that whole entities exist and are not just

bottom line? It’s called a “triple bottom line”, economic-

the sum of their parts, the BIG picture.

Does it mean meeting our needs and

When we talk about sustaining something,

H O L I S T I G

add up to make the whole, our planet is indeed holistically

All of those little parts, from fruit fly to the stratosphere

servant to our way of life is clearly creating imbalance. If we

support each other and strive towards natural equilibrium.

ultimate source of all that we have as an infinitely available

environmental health were counted as a loss? Treating the

of webs, food chains, life cycles and feedback loops that

We live on a planet that can be described as a network

rapidly if all the land degradation, pollution and threat to

social-environmental. Do you think things would change

all is you. Now imagine conducting yourself day to day, constantly interacting with

these two principles echo the ancient tribes of our past,

your extensions, how nice are you really being to you? Could you change? Do

their philosophies and ways of interacting within the whole

you want to change? That’s the crux of the matter isn’t it, do you, as an individual,

with balance. Another philosophy is that of “Deep Ecology”

really want to change your whole self to strive towards holistic equilibrium? It’s a

which entails “a reorientation of the idea of self to include

conscious decision and one that on a grand scale could be of massive benefit

an understanding that one is integrally and relationally

to us, the world and by inclusion everyone and everything else. I believe that

part of everyone and everything else”. Fundamentally

an integral part of restoring balance will be a restored quality of mindfulness,

understanding that all living things have intrinsic value,

promoting balance in our engagements with society, health, environment and

non-human and human alike and that reciprocity is key to

even economy. We all have the choice.

the shared security of healthy and happy future generations

In future articles I hope to give tips and shine light on ways we can be more

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will promote a shift in consciousness towards holism. Look

holistically minded in everyday circumstances, from food waste to dealing with

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around, do we think twice when we stand on a bug, or

crowds, shopping and even walking through the park. I understand that this can

throw the takeaway coffee cup in the waste bin and not the

be confronting, and I by no means expect you to change overnight. If you are

recycling? What if we look deeper at the cause, imagine the

feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone.

profound effects and rearrange our lifestyles down to the

As the great visionary Bucky Fuller perfectly stated “We are not going to be able

minute?

to operate our Spaceship Earth successfully nor for much longer unless we see it

Our self-centred and divided western culture is not the most

as a whole Spaceship and our fate as common, it has to be everybody or nobody”

conducive breeding ground for inclusive philosophies, and it

We have all the solutions to create health and abundance for all living things

just seems to get worse as new things come to “threaten” us

on earth, but we also need to realize that more solutions can manifest from our

and our perceived entitlements. Imagine for a moment that

internal self, our consciousness holds keys to doors we haven’t opened yet. All you

everyone and everything is merely an extension of yourself,

have to do is think about it…

minded. Gestalt philosophy believes in a unified whole, and

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MUSIC

LOUD GOES BANG

Howard - Guitar/Vocals. Brendan Scott - Drums How did you guys come together? Four of us went to school together and used to be in a band called “Fetish” for a

80 Down”. After a few years and with the inclusion of Sam,

rock bands have been walking. But this does not stop

the remaining members started to hit the studio writing

these proud family men from absolutely ripping up the

new songs and performing at various clubs. After “One

stage! With influences like the Ramones, The Bouncing

80 Down” broke up the boys from Loud Goes Bang

Souls and the Clash it’s easy to assume that when you

invited Paul to join them as their vocalist. Describe your

go to a Loud Goes Bang gig you’re likely to experience

sound? Guitar driven, medium to fast paced, old school

to play in other bands - “Who Knows What”? and “One

been mates for longer than some of the modern punk

number of years. After Fetish wrapped up Paul went on

the School Yard to the Nursery these punk rockers have

Words Jade Hopley, Pictures A.F Photography // From

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high

rock / Punk. Who are

energy,

sweat fest!

They

collectively

The Ramones, The Hard-Ons, Riffles,

The

with Lead Vocalist

but

recently caught up

influences?

Our influences vary

and doing it well! I

your

are keeping it real

Music is so subjective. Many people would scoff at what our version of punk is, so be it. If you can enjoy something through your ears, and means something to YOU, relish in it, who are we to judge?

punk,

school

old

Celibate Clash,

and old friend Paul Major to chat about the Band and

Bad Religion, Jawbreaker and The Bouncing Souls.

one of Australia’s iconic festivals, Wallapalooza which

Wallapalooza is coming up, and will have come and

recently played host to some of Queensland’s best

gone by the time we release the issue; it has become

punk and hard core bands! Who said Punk was dead?

a pretty iconic event. How would you describe

Who makes up Loud Goes Bang? John Scott - Guitar/

Wallapalooza to any of our readers who have not had

Vocals. Corey Ham - Bass/Vocals. Paul Major - Vocals. Sam

the pleasure of experiencing Wallapalooza as yet?

But what the scene needs are the

the Gold Coast that has now stretch

punters to come out and enjoy some

nationally which speaks volumes for

amazing bands the GC and Brisbane

the brand. We played the first one

has to offer. What’s your stance

about 3 or 4 years ago and it was

on the evolution of punk into the

brilliant. The fact it is free for the

hardcore screamo scene? Music is so

punters is even better! A chance for

subjective. Many people would scoff

everyone to check out what the local

at what our version of punk is, so be it.

scene has to offer in a themed and

If you can enjoy something through

fun environment. A great day that

your ears, and means something to

should not be missed. Andy Clarke

YOU, relish in it, who are we to judge?

the organizer puts a lot of effort in

Tell us a bit about your charity gig

to put the festival together and it

at Chardon’s corner, supporting

certainly shows. I recently had a

and raising money for amazing

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conversation with a fellow Punk

organization Street Swags. One of

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Rock fan who believes that there

the things about being that little bit

isn’t much of a live scene for punk

older is that we don’t necessarily see

on the Gold Coast anymore. What

music as our business. It’s our hobby,

is your opinion? It’s hard on the

almost like our version of the golfing

coast, transient population who want

dad’s, except we swing our bodies

to recognise what is being played.

and our instruments around!!!! Being

There are some local champions who

able to do this whilst helping those

are trying their arses off though. Kerry

that, for whatever reason, have not

and Chris from the Airport Tavern,

had the same opportunities as us,

Andy Clarke from CIA (Wallapalooza),

is just something that feels real and

and the Currumbin Creek Tavern are

very right. We raised enough for

giving it a good crack. And lastly the

4 or 5 swags at a cost of $80 each

great Cooly Hotel have been very

that night, that’s 4-5 people that are

supportive of us in the past year.

now warmer, and more comfortable

Wallapalooza is an amazing event on

to spread a word whether it be lyrically, through stage

100 gigs to achieve that result, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

banter or social networks to achieve such goals. What

one hell of a cool consequence

other local bands are you digging right now, that our

from having fun with your mates.

readers should check out? Crooked Face, Wolfpack, four

How much did you raise? And

zero one four, Molotov, Bloody Oath, The Meaniacs, So

how important do you think it is,

many! We want to say to your readers to really get out and

for musicians to get involved with

discover more! Finally where can our readers keep up to

social issues? Was about $400 or a

date with your goings on? Check us out online through

bit over that what I remember. It is

Facebook (link below) but the best way to keep up is get

very important!!!! By playing a show

out to shows, talk to the bands, be part of a community

you can give to those in need in our

around this loud music stuff.

overnight. We would play another

community and possibly make a life

www.facebook.com/loudgoesbang

or two that bit better. Musicians are

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lucky to be able to have the power

I C L I V I N G

MUSIC

MKO Words Josephine Flynn, Pictures Mia Forrest // Hannah Macklin (aka MKO) is making waves…big waves…and if you are yet to experience her angelic voice, coupled with experimental G

electronic/pop/whimsical/hip-hop/

sexy vibe, then we suggest you get

L C I

the band and there is WAY more to

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come.

down for a quick chat in between

have just been massive for her and

onto it pronto! The last six months

We managed to pin MKO

supporting Peaches, solo touring Sydney and Melbourne and releasing a debut album.

Phew! MKO the

band (with Steele and Myka) has been around since 2011, but you guys work together as if you’ve been playing for decades.

Did

you all know each other before beginning work together on MKO? We did indeed. I met Steele at

university in 2006, and Myka and I first met playing in a band together in 2008. We all played in various projects together - including previous projects of mine - before MKO’s inception in 2011. You hail from the streets of West End, Brisbane, like so many of our favourite artists. What is it about the West End community do you think that creates this feeling of family and collaboration that happens? West End is a really special place. It has the strongest community vibe I’ve experienced in Brisbane, held together by a widespread love for art, culture, nature and each other. It is a place I’ve always felt welcome, where I can be 100% myself. This in itself is an amazing foundation for creating and collaboration. Your H

music has been described as Electronic pop, but you infuse so many

other genres into your tunes – from soulful melodies to hip-hop lyrics.

L I

How would you personally describe your style of music? I always struggle

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with this question and in recent times have summed it up with one word:

I C

experimental. I specifically aim to create a sound that doesn’t adhere to any

one genre, so I find it very hard to categorise what I do. I like the way hip hop

I V I

makes me bounce. I like the way classical harmony makes my yearn. I like the

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sound of a soul singer’s voice. I like the breeze of pop music. I like the freedom of electronics. I like wild colours and ideas. And I like odd juxtaposition. My music is a mixture of all of these influences. You’re FRESH off the tour with Peaches! Wow! How did that happen, what was it like, what was she like to work alongside? Tell us all about it! Yep, I supported Peaches on the Brisbane leg of her recent Australian tour. I only got to meet her briefly, but she seemed really sweet - and of course put on a killer show. Her live show performance is next level. Late last year you and the band spent some time in the states doing some shows. How was that and any plans to head back? Definitely. Playing shows in NYC was one of the best experiences / decisions of my music career! Myself, Myka and Steele had an incredible time. We met heaps of rad local musicians, producers and industry folk and our 31

show was super well received. I’m hoping to get back there as soon as possible (this time armed with my debut album!). You’ve collaborated with some pretty amazing artists already, but who is on your “collaboration wish list?” Ooooh, that’s tough, there’s so many people I’d love to work with. Thinking big: Andre 3000. Bjork. Prince. Like I said, thinking big. This year you’ve expanded to a six piece including back-up singers, how has that changed the style of your shows? I love changing up the live show lineup for different shows. The core unit - myself, Steele and Myka - is always strong, so it’s fun to add different colours and timbres around that. G

I love having backing singers; my songs are always laden with harmonies so it’s nice to be able

to pull that off live. You love incorporating dance into your live shows. Has that always been

L C I

dance a bit, and not vice-versa). I love the way dancing can physically express certain qualities

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of music and I like experimenting with this in MKO’s live show. What’s plans for the rest of 2015? Finishing and releasing MKO’s debut album is top of the list. That’s been my main focus

always gone pretty hand-in-hand for me (though I definitely consider myself a singer who can

another passion for you? I started singing and dancing at the same time, so the two have

for 2015. We’ll also be playing a bunch of shows, including quite a few festivals, throughout the second half of the year. Finally, how can our readers find out more about you and where to catch a show? My website - www.mko.net.au - has all current show info, links to buying/ streaming music online, social media links, news, videos and more. And my next show is at Black Bear Lodge on June 21 with incredible Brisbane underground band Superfeather. It would be great to see some new faces there! www.mko.net.au www.facebook.com/mkomusic www.instagram.com/mkofoto

Little by little, becomes a lot.

O L I S T I

Change a community by educating a family...

C L I V I N G Photos Care Of Super Duper

Run by volunteers, so all funds raised go direct to educating children who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t otherwise have the opportunity. How would you like to give someone the helping hand that will change their life forever?

littlepaths.org.au

NUTRITION

agreement as he feeds the wriggling

packaged food and genetically modified food, it is a breath of fresh air to know

Aura a spoonful of avocado straight

that there are people out there who are returning to traditional methods in

from its shell, ‘Its true,’ Adam agrees,

the kitchen, people who care not only about the finished product, but every

‘we go to health food shops on our

intricate detail that takes place from paddock to plate. There are people who

days off together.’

wish to honor age old traditions, utilize knowledge that has been passed

Their company, Peace, Love and

down from generation to generation, and return to the beautiful and simplistic

Vegetables is indeed a labor of love.

concept of food being our medicine.

Their warehouse in the Industrial

Adam and Anya are such people. ‘We’re both total health freaks,’ Anya laughs

Estate is a maze of various open

as she juggles Aura, their young toddler in her arms. Adam shakes his head in

spaces flanked by green trees and

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from

grassy bush land. Activity buzzes

Words and pictures by Kelly Fielding // In this day and age of fast food,

Peace, Love & Vegetables

the

commercial

kitchen,

laughter comes from the main office, greetings are bellowed from the mezzanine floor and the downstairs cool room. Yet despite the buzz of activity occurring in all of the various spaces,

the

overall

environment

remains tranquil and harmonious. Adam explains, ‘When you walk into a health center or a healing clinic, there is that sensation of peace, we wanted to cultivate that here, we are

Fermented probiotics

foods and

are

living

rich

enzymes.

staple and I have made it ever since.’ Fermented

foods

seem

void in naturally occurring friendly

market now as the benefits of these

bacteria, it is becoming increasingly

foods becomes more commonly

important to add these nutrient-rich

known. Some of the benefits found

foods to our diet.

from consuming fermented foods

Born and raised in Russia, Anya is the

include a stronger immune system,

creative mind behind the sauerkraut,

detoxification from heavy metals,

which was the original product that

improved brain function, improved

started Peace Love and Vegetables.

digestion and a healthier, more

producing therapeutic food, so it is important that we do

‘I was always different growing up,’

alkalized body.

that in a therapeutic environment.’

she explains, ‘I was always fascinated

Rather

Peace Love and Vegetables is clearly not your run of the mill

by health and healing the body

intimidated by these new businesses,

food business. Grown from the ground up from humble

naturally.’ Moving to the States when

Adam explains that it excites them

appearing more and more on the

With the modern diet currently so

threatened

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feel

than

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includes a selection of flavored sauerkrauts, fermented

she was 11 and later working in a

and instills an even stronger passion

cashew cheese and a coconut kefir drink.

health and vitamin store, Anya began

and dedication in them to keep

As well as being 100% organic, all of their fresh produce is

to educate herself and experiment

their products at the highest quality

sourced from within Australia and locally where possible,

with her own ways of healing. Battling

possible, ‘It forces us to constantly

even their seaweed and sea salt is from certified Australian

with painful periods and intermittent

relook our products and strive to

shorelines, ‘We spend a lot of time researching our

fungal infections, Anya was taught

make them better. This way the

suppliers,’ Adam explains, ‘we want to make sure that the

how to make sauerkraut. ‘From that

company is always growing, shifting,

produce that we are using is of the highest standard.’

day,’ she says, ‘sauerkraut became my

evolving and changing, which is how 35

but medicinal in its very nature. Their product range

of fermentation to create food that is not only nourishing,

Keenly aware of the energy and vibration that is translated into food, it is of utmost importance that the workplace is a positive environment. ‘ W e play music to the kraut as it ferments,’ says Anya, ‘ s ometimes we even play Eckhart Tolle podcasts, ’ she says with a smile.

gluten free, probiotic rich foods, utilizing the ancient art

the world at large. Their products focus on 100% organic,

health and wellness with their immediate community and

beginnings, Adam and Anya are on a mission to share

more about building a community, a culture, spreading

Adam and Anya stress that it’s not

our message of health. That’s why we believe its so

your usual 9-5 workplace. Keenly

important to keep our prices low and fair.’

aware of the energy and vibration

With much on the horizon for this pioneering team, the

that is translated into food, it is

business is ever growing and changing. The downstairs

the

section of the warehouse has just recently been

workplace is a positive environment.

transformed into a shop front, a place that offers their

‘We play music to the kraut as it

full product range, as well as cutting edge supplements,

ferments,’ says Anya, ‘sometimes we

superfoods, herbal tinctures, body care, kitchen staples

even play Eckhart Tolle podcasts,’ she

such as quinoa, coconut oil and gluten free products, as

says with a smile. Upon examination

well as a large variety of local products. The shop will be

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of the fermentation room, a warm

expanding to offer organic produce as well as organic

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enclosed space downstairs, it does

bulk products and an empty food van sits out the front

indeed have speakers purely for the

awaiting a renovation to bring it back to life.

audio enjoyment of the silver barrels

Peace Love and Vegetables can be found in health food

of kraut, the home for where the

stores around Australia. Their brand new website and

magic occurs.

online store is also about to launch very soon. In the

Listening to Adam and Anya speak,

meantime, you can follow them on social media at-

utmost

importance

that

we always want it to be.’

what is most apparent is their pure

love for what they are doing and

www.facebook.com/pages/Peace-Love-Vegetables/2429

sharing. “Our goal has never been

28825786110?ref=hl

about money,’ Adam explains, ‘it’s far

www.instagram.com/peaceloveandvegetables/

Mexican style sweet potatoes.

a fork. Place on an oven tray lined

2 spring onions, thinly sliced

with baking paper and roast for an

1 1/2 cups cooked kidney beans

hour or an hour and a half until you

1 tsp chili flakes

can easily pierce the skin with a knife

1/2 tbsp cumin

and the inside is soft.

2 tbsp tomato concentrate

- While the potatoes cook, warm

½ a red capsicum, diced

the coconut oil in a medium sized

2 sticks of celery diced

sauté pan. Add the spring onions

Cracked salt and pepper

and cook until they soften. Add the

½ an avocado diced

spices and tomato concentrate and

2 tablespoons of Peace Love and

cook for another minute or two.

Vegetables Cashew Cheese with Dill

- Next stir in the beans and

Fresh herbs to garnish

capsicum, season with salt and

- Pierce each potato a few times with

1 tbsp coconut oil

- Preheat oven to 220 degrees.

2 medium sweet potatoes

Serves 2 generously

I S T I C L I V I N G

pepper and mix everything well to combine the flavours. - When the potatoes have cooled slightly, slice each potato down the center, almost through to the bottom. Carefully open and spoon in the bean mixture. - Top with avocado, cashew dill cheese and fresh herbs. ____

SURF

A lifestyle choice or an unprecedented addiction? L C I

their own story and I love hearing them. So I figured I would ask a bunch of mermaids from all over Australia the question; What does Surfing mean to you?

surfers is that surfing is not just a casual activity. It is a lifestyle, an obsession even. Everyone has

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Words Jade Hopley // One of the things that resonates loud and clear whenever we talk to other

Libby Caskey // When I take my first step into the ocean a euphoric type eclipse overcomes me. Every thought I have on land stays there and I enter a realm of utopia. To be honest my family compares it to somewhat of an addiction but without it I can’t see straight during my day to day life. If I could not surf I would perhaps be achieving more of what society expects. But at the end of the day there is truly only one thing that makes me happy and that is surfing. - Libby Caskey, Byron Bay

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Jodie Molloy //

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Freedom and bliss. A dip in the water after a busy work day. A surf session at sunset. The

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therapeutic qualities of the sea help me to relieve muscle tension and cleanse my skin. The sound

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of a wave breaking before me ignites a spark and makes me want to stay on the wave forever.

But it’s not just about riding the wave for me, I really enjoy just floating out the back, taking in the

I V I

serenity and looking at the world from a different point of view. In Byron Bay we are blessed with

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beauty at every surfing beach, it is indeed a #younique place and I’m so happy to call it my home. - Jodie Molloy, Evolution Concierge / Photo credit - Tempting Alice/Kirra Cheers Photography

Serena Adams // Calmness, wholeness, rejuvenated and equal. Surfing brings me one with the ocean and allows me to step away from the human world. Surfing means happiness to me.- Serena Adams, Let’s Go Surfing (Byron Bay, Bondi & Maroubra)

Dee Walker // Surfing to me means freedom, family time, joy, surrendering to mother ocean, letting go of the ego, being totally present in the moment. And when there’s no surf we are at the beach waiting

for her to arrive! - Dee Walker, Yoga Instructor, Mother of Percy and Isla, Mother Nature lover

Taylor Miller //

- Ed Sloane

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believe EVERYTHING can be understood through it. - Taylor Miller, Rusty Miller Surf / Photo credit

Surfing is a way of experiencing nature’s beat and rhythm. I don’t consider it EVERYTHING but I

Chloe Power // Surfing means getting down to the beach before the sun rises and leaving after the sun sets. It means letting go of the mediocre and mundane things in life, and not thinking about anything else except dancing through the waves. It’s a hobby that bonds together salty legends of all ages, race or culture and will guarantee laughter and smiles. As a marine biology student, the ocean environment has always bewildered me with its mystery and beauty, and surfing is the glue that holds my life on land and life in the sea together. - Chloe Power, Newcastle, NSW

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SURF

INTERNATIONAL SURFING DAY Words Greg Howell, Pictures Greg Howell and Jade Hopley // Winter is here again! Don’t you just love that morning cool offshore breeze glass off with water temps G

still being delicious and a southerly swell that just keeps

on coming? Oh yeah!

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This year, Surfrider Foundation are celebrating

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International Surfing Day which is a family friendly, sustainable, community, surfing lifestyle fundraising event

to create for this year’s International Surfing Day.

Well that’s the elements Surfrider Foundation is hoping

on Saturday 20th of June 2015, 12pm – 16:30 at Dune Café, Palm Beach Parklands. // Activities on the day we will be: - Roots of Surfing Wooden Surfboard Teams Challenge - Dune Care planting, weeding, watering - Beach Clean Up - Sand Wars - the movie

event, there will be an expression session made up of

Ever wanted to have a try of a

experienced wooden surfboard enthusiasts who will show

wooden surfboard (Alaia)? Well

their prowess riding original style surfboards like Alaia’s,

now is your chance! In the teams

Paipo’s & Itako’s. These ancient wooden crafts date back to

challenge, surfers will be asked to

the Roots of Surfing which are thousands of years old.

surf 2 waves in groups of 6 in a tag

So if you’re an enthusiast, sustainable surfing advocate

team format. All surfers will ride a

or complete novice who’d like to watch professionals or

wooden surfboard (Alaia) which

even try out one of these original surf crafts bring your

will be provided, along with all

family down to the beach for a fun day.

other necessary equipment. The

Prizes:

judging format is under standard

- $1000 off any full charter booking made with Soul

surfing competition criteria, but

Safaris Surf Travel in 2015/16

the emphasis will be very much on

- Burleigh Brewing Co. voucher for 4 people entry to a

having fun & enjoying yourselves

“Tanks, Tales and Tastings Session”

while helping promote sustainable

- Patagonia $100 vouchers

surfing. There are still spots available

- Surf Organic wax

After the Teams Challenge - wooden surfboard

Surfboard Teams Challenge

are available for the Expression Session.

Roots of Surfing Wooden

12:00 – 13:30

I S T I C L I V I N G

for the team’s event, so if you and three mates want to get amongst it,

13:30 – 14:00

go to the links below. Plenty of spots

BBQ & Presentations

mobile phones couldn’t exist without

Dune Care planting, weeding,

it. Our houses, skyscrapers, bridges

watering will take place along the

and airports are all basically made

path from the Dune Café.

with sand: it has become the most

All plants and equipment will be

widely consumed natural resource

supplied, just bring a hat, water

on the planet after fresh water.

bottle & wear shoes.

The worldwide construction boom

Beach Clean Up, at the same time

fuelled by emerging economies and

as dune care we will be keeping

increasing urbanization has led to

an eye out and cleaning up any

intensive sand extraction on land

waste that is found. This rubbish

and in the oceans, with damaging

will be audited and records kept to

environmental impacts. Sand Wars

add to Surfrider Foundation’s data

takes us around the world as it tracks

collection program in partnership

the contractors, sand smugglers and

with Tangaroa Blue.

unscrupulous property developers

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14:00 – 15:00

involved in the new gold rush, and 15:00 – 16:30

meet the environmentalists and local

Sand Wars – the movie

populations struggling to reverse the

www.sand-wars.com

threat to the future of this resource

Sand Wars is an epic eco-thriller

that we all take for granted.

that predicts by the end of the 21st

You can keep up to speed on the

century, beaches will be a thing

facebook event page.

of the past. That is the alarming forecast of a growing number of scientists and environmental NGOs. Sand has become a vital commodity for our modern economies: we use it in our toothpaste, detergents, and cosmetics, and computers and 44

or contact Greg 0414 939 942

H O

scattered pieces, discarded materials, fragments of experience, and some of the remains of my thought processes are composed and displayed for your interpretation...

L I S T I C L I V I N

/heARTmindygirL

mindygirl@gmail.com

.a u

Opening Event: Sat 4th July from 3-4pm 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta | Gallery: 07 5536 2500

c a f e d b a r.

upcoming soLo exhibition

/a r t - g a l

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WELLBEING

THE " PERFECT " MALE

Words by Kate Chiffey-Gray // The objectification of the female body in

in the Armani perfume ads in the 2000’s.

advertising and media and its link to poor body image issues among women

and advertising industries have painted a clear message

The media

is not a new topic and has been at the forefront of the media for the past

of what men should look like to be desirable and manly

decade. Thankfully this coverage has spawned many positive body image

throughout the decades.

movements promoting empowerment and self-body love among women.

Although what is considered ideal has evolved over

But what about men? Is there a trend of them being objectified too? Are

time, an ideal has always been promoted heavily. What is

they being pressured to look a certain way and does this affect them in a

interesting though is that the ideal of the 1970’s was one

negative way?

that was far more achievable for most men so the issues

I believe that since the 1970’s we have seen a growth in the use of idealised

of poor body image were simply not as prevalent. As

male physique to sell a variety of products.

From the Jockey’s Underwear

time has passed the image of the perfect male physique

ads in the 70’s to Marky Mark in his Calvin’s in the 90’s to David Beckham

has developed into something unattainable for most

This statistic is a clear example that men are so driven

men feeling negatively about their bodies and pursuing

to achieve the muscular look portrayed by the media s

any means necessary to fit societies ideal. I believe this

ideal that they’re willing to inject their bodies with human

trending issue of men’s body obsession triggered by

growth hormones.

their negative body image is reflected in current health

On an international level the U.S’s National Eating

and crime statistics worldwide.

Disorder Association found that currently on average

For example In our very own back yard on the Gold Coast

10 million males in the USA will suffer from a clinically

needle exchange clinics are reporting they are seeing

significant eating disorder. In the UK they have recently

more gym going steroid users than any other type of

found that 80% of men were unhappy with their

users in their clinics. On a larger scale nationally the

bodies and they were splashing out over one billion

the highest number of steroid related arrests on record.

this unrealistic ideal? We are left with a huge number of

latest crime commission data is reporting that they have

So what happens when the huge majority of men don’t fit

and one that is heavily photo-shopped.

I S T I C

dollars per year on gym memberships and weight loss

supplements. It is clear that men too struggle with body

I V I

image issues. These are just a few statistic of many I

N G

came across. There is no doubt we are facing a growing issue and as the younger generation of boys now get older it will only get worse. What I found interesting though about the body issue epidemic in men is it is barely talked about. Why it is then that men seem to suffer in silence?

mentioned earlier there has been a huge rise of the positive “real women campaigns from the well-known

Dove campaign the recent “Body Love” Movement. Women are beginning to talk up all over the world about learning to love, accept and embrace their bodies. Where are the campaigns for men? Why is society not exploring in as much depth too? Is it that men are still suffering the hangover of the teaching that “real” men don’t talk about their feelings? Or is it that men simply don’t feel safe enough to say they are being affected by the media’s bombarding of G

idealised male bodies everywhere they turn.

To be honest I don’t know why it isn’t addressed like

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experiences with this pressure so we can now start

S T

to pave the way for the younger generation of boys to not grow up with this issue too.

needs to happen now is that men need to share the

the same issues are in women. I do believe what

As the beauty, health and fitness industry grows in wealth and power the pressure it puts on us with its glossy advertising and ideal images will only increase.

We will constantly be brain washed to

chase an ideal that doesn’t exist. And for each of us that wake up to the illusion of the perfect body there are another thousand who believe themselves not to be good enough because they don’t for the ideal. Hopefully over time and awareness men and women can overcome the desire to fit another’s idea of beauty and be fully comfortable in our own skin.

THANKS FOR READING!

O L I S T

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