Holistic Living - Issue 9 August 2015

Issue 9 - AUGUST 2015

Photo Š 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

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Cross University and is an emerging artist and

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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

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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 studying Ecology and

each moment whether labelled good or bad a

Conservation Biology at Griffith

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Coast from Melbourne in 2012 and started Body

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School of Environment. Father,

blessing. When she is not mentoring and training

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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 //

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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

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greening events with Climate Wave Enterprises and

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bodytransformers.com.au

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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

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for us to continue to enjoy the beaches as we do and to

Gold Coast for so many reasons, but our 24 degree

preserve them for future generations, we all need to do

winter days are definitely one of the reasons why our

what we can to keep our beaches, waterways, oceans and

beautiful city continues to grow. I was lucky enough to

coastlines beautiful.

have my parents up here for three weeks, staying at one

In this issue, our resident Enviro writer Ben Strand,

of our favourite beaches Fingal Head and my Dad was

continues with his series informing us what little changes

spending each morning and afternoon diving in the

we can make in our day to day lives to do just that, help

waves and body surfing. Mum would watch from the

preserve our beautiful planet for those that come after us.

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bank (still a little TOO chilly for Mummsy to get in), and

Deborah Brown from Bangarra Dance Theatre stopped in

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would be entertained by the Humpbacks playing and

for a chat about their new work Lore and the connection

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breaching behind the break. Needless to say, on the

with land and sea. Jadeo catches up with local killer

day before they left Dad turned to Mum and said “I think

surfer Freya Prumm, Kelly our lovely foodie gives us some

we should move to the Coast darl.” (They have lived in

tasty recipes for nourish bowls and Kate informs us about

Wagga Wagga – inland NSW for the last 30 years.)

the importance of boredom.

One thing that struck me while they were up was on

We hope you enjoy this ocean inspired issue, dedicated

their daily walks. Locals know that Fingal is well known

to Mummsy and Daddsy and their dedication to the

for pods of dolphins and they were visited by them on

environment.

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Winter? What winter? We are so blessed here on the

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EDITORS LETTER +++

their walks each day, but as well as enjoying the beaches, Dad would spend his walk picking up rubbish. See, my Dad has a deep love for the ocean and he knows that

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Love Josephine x

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Jade hopley

cool jams

bangarra dance theatre

closing the loop

The rubbish state

jake & Andy

shooty & Tom

NOURISH BOWLS

freya plum

importance of boredom

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ART ART

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photographer/researcher/interviewer/writer‌the list goes on in regards to the jobs she takes on for HL. Did you know though, Jadeo is ALSO an artist! Yes, as well as balancing all the bits and

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Words Josephine Flynn, Pictures care of Jade Hopley //

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Jade Hopley art Our very own Jadeo‌Co-Founder/

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pieces here at HL HQ, she creates art; beautiful art! Jadeo is about to embark on a new adventure, sailing the seven seas as a photographer, so it seems fitting that we really showcase the talent and beauty that is our very own Jadeo.

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H O L I S T I C L I

Credit Jade Hopley

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Where do you draw your inspiration from? It really depends on what I am

three artists that I admire alot and draw alot of inspiration from. You do a lot

working on and what medium I am working with. When I paint it is usually quite

of mixed media, but are also known for your photography and paintings.

abstract and that’s really raw emotion speaking. Also in paint and print making

Do you have a favourite medium you like to work with? I can’t say I love

alot of my inspiration came from the natural environment, mostly the surf. But also more recently with my mixed media works, it has come from

any one medium more than the other.

The camaraderie that I have with fellow artists when working in the print studio at uni, having people to be inspired by and bounce off when you have a block is the best.

subcultures and social issues as well.

I just love the creative process and they all equally make me extremely happy and that’s the most important thing. You’re about to head overseas

Also since starting Uni I have learned that looking at other artists work can be

as a photographer. What an opportunity!! How are you feeling about

extremely inspiring. Who are your favourite artists? Wow that’s a crazy hard

the looming change? I’m excited to see more of the world and continue to

question to answer. Potts, Anthony Lister, Narani Henson and Chris Bennie are

grow as both an artist and a human. I think getting out of your comfort zone, 7

travelling and challenging yourself, although scary, is the best way to become inspired and to grow. I’ve had a few struggles with mental health issues recently and I believe it’s because I was not listening to my heart and following my passion. Photography, travel and art are my passion, it is my happiness and I cannot wait to immerse myself in it fulltime. You are constantly researching and finding new and unique artists. Do you have a favourite to date that you have interviewed for HL? Definitely POTTS! I have G

admired his work for many years and getting to spend

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some quality time with him, and visit his studio was an

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artist I have interviewed for HL. I have had ALOT of pinch

Credit Jade Hopley

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been able to make contact and work with every single

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unreal experience. But honestly I feel honoured to have

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me moments that’s for sure! Describe your ultimate

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studio space. It would definitely have views of the ocean, so I could drop everything and surf when it’s good. Just kidding. Honestly I love the idea of co working spaces. For many years I struggled to paint with other people around me, but now I really enjoy it. The camaraderie that I have with fellow artists when working in the print studio at uni, having people to be inspired by and bounce off when you have a block is the best. My current studio barely gets used because it is in a dark and damp garage; it’s not a very inspiring space at all, so I would definitely go for something light and airy something similar to Celeste Credit Jade Hopley

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Twiklers space would be beautiful. What is your most

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Credit Jade Hopley

Credit Jade Hopley

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frustrating aspect of being an artist?

Losing my mojo,

especially when you have deadlines. Forcing the creative process when you’re feeling uninspired or just can’t make your mind up about where you want the piece to go, is hard and I have handed in unresolved work at uni and felt really down about it in the past. It’s definitely something I need to work on.

We’ve had so many “pinch me” moments over the last few years with HL. Do you have a moment you can recall that you just thought “This cannot be happening?” So many!

But I think in the forefront was being front and centre in the G

photographers pit at Byron Bluesfest for artists I have admired

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all my life; Jimmy Cliff, Franti, Diesel and George Clinton

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seven seas for the next 6 months, I plan to come home and

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hold my first solo photography exhibition of photos from my travels. Where can our readers, friends and family keep up

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What does the future hold for Jadeo? Other than sailing the

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to name just a few. Wow! That whole week still feels surreal.

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with the adventures of Jadeo?

Instagram @moana_creative facebook.com/MoanaCreativeArts Facebook.com/jadeonaturallightphotography ____

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BUSINESS

cool - jams Words

Josephine

combat night sweats and hot flushes

looking for natural alternatives to

especially if they have an Oestrogen

pharmaceutical medicines here at

positive cancer. So, I went on a little

HL, so when we heard about Cool-

search, as I also suffered from night

Jams and the relief they are providing

sweats, due to Menopause.

oncology patients as well as women

My initial desire, as an Oncology

going

and

Nurse in bringing the sleepwear range

people suffering with anxiety and

to Australia, was to provide much

depression, we knew we had to

needed relief to Cancer patients

investigate further.

Local oncology

who are unable to take HRT and

nurse Mary-Lou is giving relief to

are constantly searching for natural

Australia and New-Zealand from right

relief from the night sweats. I guess

here on the Gold Coast. Read on and

working in Oncology also helped me

find out more about this inspirational

make the decision not to go on HRT

business. How long has Cool Jams

as I knew the risk factors associated

been going for? The Parent company

with doing this. So I myself needed

and concept has been running in

to look for natural ways to combat the

the USA for 6 years now, and is in

many and varied symptoms of dealing

its infancy in Australia. What was

with menopause.

the reason you decided to bring

My search took me to the U.S.A

Cool Jams to Australia? I love this

and Canada, where I found the

question‌ As an Oncology Nurse,

most

it troubled me to think our Breast

Pajamas made from moisture wicking

Cancer Ladies did not have many

material, and made specifically for

menopause,

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options as far as taking HRT to help

through

Flynn,

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Pictures

Care of Mary-Lou // We are always

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world

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amazing,

renowned

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the appeals aligning with Cool-Jams was the CEO and Founder herself is a Philanthropist. I could tell reading her story that she had such a warm and open heart and even when I approached her to ask about owning the rights in Australia, she was very giving of her time to a very enthusiastic unknown chick down under. Working in Oncology, my heart is with Oncology patients. I would dearly love to give to every area of cancer research, but my heart lies with lesser known/less publicised areas like the Cherish Foundation for Gynaecological research. This will be our first charity giving. So how does the product work?

I think the formula is locked in a vault‌ Our Cool-jams fabric was developed initially by Garmatex for the Canadian armed forces. The military had requested G

development of a fabric that would look and feel like cotton but had other

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this on a National level. How has the

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wanted to test the Pajamas myself,

response been? It has actually blown

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before introducing this product to

me away. Between our testimonials

the Australian market.

and the fact 90% of our customers

I remained a tad skeptical, but open

are repeat customers, this is speaking

at the same time.

The first night I

volumes. When you read a testimonial

tried them, I knew I had to let Australia

that lets you know your product has

know about this product. I also gave a

made a profound difference to their

pair to one of my patients who suffers

lives because they are sleeping so

from night sweats and she absolutely

much better, I know I am living the

loved them. The rest is history as I am

dream. The corporation itself gives

now the proud exclusive distributor in

quite a lot of money to charities

Australia and New Zealand.

including Breast Cancer Research.

I really do love making a difference in

How important is this aspect of the

my field of work, but now I get to do

company to your values? One of

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anyone suffering night sweats.

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characteristics to include wicking ability, temperature regulation, quick drying

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ability, anti-microbial

diabetes, anxiety and depression suffer

and wearability.

as well. I have even had a customer

The technology is a three step process:

with Lupus (an auto immune disorder)

1- as the body perspires, moisture is

Where can we find the products? We

transferred through the material from

are primarily selling our products online

the skin to the outer layer of clothing,

at www.cool-jams.com.au What’s next

a process called moisture absorption

for Cool-Jams? Not only are the P.J’s

or wicking; 2- the moisture spreads

great for those with night sweats, but

over

(moisture

quite a few people have bought them

transport or disbursement); 3- the

for travelling as well because they are

disbursement process allows the outer

wrinkle-resistant,

air to evaporate the moisture (moisture

bact out technology, and feel softer

drying or evaporation).

than cotton, plus dry super quick. The

As moisture is pulled away from the body

travel area is definitely another area we

it carries with it the body’s built up heat,

know our P.J’s will benefit. My husband

helping to regulate body temperature.

took the shorts on a surfing trip, stuck

This is an invaluable process as it also

on a boat for days and he was the only

minimizes excessive temperature drops

one that didn’t have smelly P.J’s at the

in the body during the cool down period

end For those wanting to get involved,

which can occur following sweating.

how can we find out more? Just send

When we hang our product out to dry,

an enquiry on the website… We are

it literally takes 10-15 minutes. Who

definitely looking for joint ventures and

would you recommend the pyjamas

affiliates to join cool-jams… would love

to? Anyone suffering night sweats…

to hear from you.

surface

area

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or cancer sufferers, but people with

the

longevity

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and

effectiveness, anti-pilling, washability

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odour-resistant-with

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This is such a wide audience, as not only the obvious customers with menopause

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CULTURE

BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE Interview with Deborah Brown, Words Josephine Flynn, Pictures care of Bangarra Dance Theatre and QPAC // Bangarra Dance Theatre. A company synonymous with beautiful use of symbolism, story-telling, soundscapes, creative sets, innovative choreography and incredible dancers.

The new production Lore tells two very

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contrasting stories about life for the Aboriginal and Torres

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Strait Islander peoples and their connection with land We were absolutely blessed when Brisbane

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of I.B.I.S agreed to have a chat with us about life in

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the company, choreography, indigenous culture and Australian performing arts culture on the world stage. You

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born Deborah Brown, dancer and co-choreographer

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and sea.

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have an incredible list of titles to your name in not just dancing, but also acting, directing and choreography.

This, however, is your choreographic debut for Bangarra Dance. How has the process been for you on the “other side?” Daunting! The major difference with placing the choreographic hat on is that I have felt more vulnerable as a storyteller. There are so many people placing their trust in you, that you’ll take them on a beautiful journey. Not just audience members but also the team of dancers and creative collaborators. I was lucky to share the experience with Waangenga. I didn’t feel like I was diving alone.

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Credit Jeff Tan

Your work in the current production of lore is I.B.I.S (co-choreographed with Waangenga Blanco) and tells of life in The Torres Strait Islands. Can you tell us how the work came to be and a little more about it? Originally the idea was pitched to both Waangenga and I over pinball and pizza from our Artistic Director Stephen Page. He was inspired by one of the more remote IBIS stores on Mer Island when we took our Elma Kris’s work Emeret Lu back to country.

It can appear to be a typical food store but it really does become central to the community and can store what’s not so typical to others. For example, if there’s to be big feasting set up by one of the local family, that family may need the IBIS to help store extra food when there’s no space at home. We also touch on the theme of climate change. When Waangenga and I visited Mer Island last year we could see a change in sea life from 2008. The community have spoken of rising sea levels and

It is a strong, beautiful way to bridge a gap and open up an audience to a history that I think many are still afraid to understand.

Credit Jacob Nash

are slowly moving from their homes along the shore higher up the hill.

There is such a strong sense of pride, identity and sustainability for where they live, a connection to land and

sea, that some will stay with the island until it’s gone rather than flee. How does your work compliment the other work Sheoak (by acclaimed choreographer Frances Rings)? You’ll see two very contrasting pieces but both with a strong message of hope to our future connection with land and sea. I.B.I.S shares a day in the life of Torres Strait Islanders circulating around an island’s local store. It celebrates the community’s connection with its environment. There is a lot of laughter in IBIS. Sheoak takes us into a more deep and dark place exploring that despite the challenges of a modern world changing our environment that there’s still hope for us to reawaken ourselves and reconnect Credit Edward Mulvihill

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are more stories to be told and

Both pieces believe in the optimism

hopefully the opportunity again to

and resilience of our indigenous

choreograph for Bangarra will come

culture. You started dancing from an

up! There’s so much I would love

early age. Was it always something

to explore in terms of Indigenous

you knew you wanted to do for a

and

living? I had always loved dancing.

all about finding which doors will

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dancing

open! How long has Bangarra been

growing up however, I had no

around? Bangarra has been around

expectations of building a career as

for 26 years now – it started way

a dancer. I didn’t believe I had the

back

facility to be a professional dancer

Stephen Page has been with the

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and still pinch myself that I have

company since 1991, which is quite

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carved a somewhat successful career

incredible and we just keep going

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out of it! When I initially auditioned for

from strength to strength. What

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Bangarra it was more out of curiosity

does Bangarra mean? It’s a Wiradjuri

- I didn’t think I would be offered a

word and it means ‘to make fire’. How

position. However, once I was in

important do you feel it is to

the room learning the repertoire, I

continue

knew I really wanted to be a part this

traditions in contemporary arts?

iconic company. I love storytelling

I believe it’s highly important. It is

and what a great way to do so by

a strong, beautiful way to bridge a

fusing ancient and modern dance

gap and open up an audience to a

together! What’s next after Lore for

history that I think many are still afraid

you as a choreographer? I really

to understand. I think sometimes

have an interest in dance film which

preaching about “Black History” can

I would love to explore further. There

fall on deaf ears but through the

particularly

loved

tap

non-Indigenous

in

1989.

dance.

Artistic

It’s

Director

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with the environment around us.

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to

include

Indigenous

medium of dance it opens up the heart as well as the mind.

Once the heart has been touched an openness to learn and connect becomes easier. The company has travelled extensively overseas. How does the International scene react to your productions compared to the Australian scene? Beautifully. In fact sometimes it can feel that there is a greater thirst and desire to understand Australian Indigenous culture from an audience overseas. The reactions are always positive and the conversations after a H

show are of great compassion and desire to learn as much

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as possible. Not to say Australian audiences lack the desire

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however, in our own backyard I find that the broader

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media waters down Indigenous culture whereas, despite

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what little knowledge of our culture is overseas they’re

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prepared to eat up as much knowledge as they can during

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our whirlwind visits. For all of our budding dancers and

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choreographers out there, how does one get involved in the dance company? There are many avenues that one can take. Whether it be through studying at a tertiary institution, or just being adventurous and exploring your own craft anyway you can, the path you take will always require perseverance, heart and trust. It’s finding the perfect balance of confidence and self-criticism - that’s challenging even after a decade professionally! ____ Credit Jacob Nash

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ENVIRONMENT

household organic waste and what

means you are a living organism, most likely human. Every

we can do to close the loop and live

living thing on this planet requires a few characteristics

holistically, sustainably and towards

to be classed as an organism, you are born, you require

healthy balance.

energy through input and digestion, you excrete that

We place most of our organic waste

energy and you die, hopefully starting a new cycle for

in landfill which produces a toxic

other living things and keeping that “loop” closed. What

liquid called “leachate”, a mixture of

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do I mean by a closed loop? Well it’s simple, you would

organic acids, battery acids, dissolved

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have heard of the water cycle in school or the circle of

chemicals and polluted water runoff.

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life by a stoic animated father Mufasa (I know, I still get

Leachate is a huge problem for ground

teary thinking about his demise). Just like the allegory of

water and contaminating aquifer, so…

the worm being eaten by the bird, the bird then feeds its

Why does organic, bio-degradable

young, the bird dies and is then food for the worm, a very

waste end up being a part of the

condensed example of a closed loop, just natural events

problem when there are easy solutions

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Words Benjamin Strand // If you are reading this that

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CLOSING THE LOOP

that anyone can do? These solutions

Approximately half of all household waste is organic and all of it can be recycled through worm composting.

are not difficult to implement and live by once you get used to it. So what am I talking about, Worms. Everyone

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perfectly in harmony and balance. Current western society

has heard of compost, the process

has managed to create linear systems, open loops, to

of breaking down organic matter

the detriment of our natural world and in effect, us. This

in a compost pile, and the results

article will focus on how we can more effectively treat our

produce some of the best fertilizer

you will find. However, worms do it

than the zucchini frittata you had for

better. Understandably not everyone

lunch? Well worms can do it, and

has a garden or enough space to

with surprising results. As the worms

accommodate a compost pile, but

decompose organic material in a

everyone has space for a worm farm.

worm farm, they change the chemical

Approximately half of all household

makeup of the waste. Secretions

waste is organic and all of it can be

in the worm’s intestinal tract add

recycled through worm composting.

concentrated nutrients as the soil

Worm farming produces a rich, dark,

passes through. Earthworm castings

earthy soil called Vermicompost, a treat

contain 5 to 11 times more nitrogen,

for your garden, herbs or indoor plants.

phosphorous,

You can have the worm farm indoors

normal soil, nutrients that all plants

or outdoors and some of the models

need to thrive and grow. Worms

available at your local hardware/

also work in conjunction with smaller

gardening store are affordable and not

friends, the cooperation between the

very big, making for year round supply

worms and microbes produce humic

of compost and closing the loop, but

acid and plant growth hormones.

these cosmetic benefits are only the tip

The humic acid binds to minerals

of the wriggly iceberg. These guys are

and nutrients in the soil. It protects

scientifically awesome!

the minerals from being degraded

using bacteria that thrive in high temperatures. These high temperatures

Worms are masters of their art and

by UV rays or washed out of the soil

kill off some of the microbes but with vermicompost, waste is broken down

have been for a very long time, we

through watering. The acid “holds”

aerobically at moderate temperatures, as opposed to high temperature

owe much of our fertile soil and

them in the soil in a form which can

anaerobic environments in landfills. This allows a much wider spectrum of

natural beauty to these natural waste

be easily absorbed by the plants.

microorganisms to develop in the final product. It is these microbes that can

disposal geniuses. Who else can say

Vermicompost may have up to a 1000

convert nutrients in the soil to a form that is more readily absorbed by plants.

that they improve the nutrient content

times higher microbial population

Vermicompost was also found to help increase a plant’s resistance to disease.

of the food they eat as it passes

than normal compost. Traditional

The theory is that all the microbes present compete for the nutrients in the

through them? Is your poop healthier

compost piles break down materials

soil and make it harder for the harmful microbes to survive. By having a

and

potassium

as

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won’t take much time out of your day

harmful microbes have a harder time surviving. Wineries

because, well, worms are fairly low

use vermicompost to help prevent loss of grape vines to

maintenance, the most time you will

disease, you can thank worms for that nice merlot after

spend is setting it up and cleaning out

dinner. Researchers continue to observe remarkable

a tray every few months. You can also

results and in some cases, it has even been found to repel

be kind and share the benefits with

pesky mites, a natural form of pest control… but this is an

family, friends and neighbours.

area still being investigated. These wriggly powerhouses

Being holistically minded does not

are amazing, the humble worm truly can be a useful tool

have to entail a radical upheaval in

to help you live more sustainably, cutting out organic

your lifestyle, a more effective route

waste in landfills, re-introducing healthy microbes into

would be to tweak small aspects of

soils, and closing the loop in your home.

your everyday life to align closer with

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With this information in mind, doesn’t it make sense to

holistic principles. We are indeed

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recycle your organic house waste through worm farming?

interconnected

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Think about it, your offcuts from making dinner can

and

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be placed in your worm farm, you then use the worm

sustainability will create a healthier

castings and the nutrient rich liquid that comes off the

home for all of us and every other

vermicompost, also known as “Worm Tea”, to fertilize a

living thing we share our spaceship

small herb garden you might have on a window sill and

Earth with, a large number of small

then use the herbs in your next dinner. Right there is an

acts add up, so what are you waiting

effective closed loop, and this can be applied from small

for?...

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diverse population of microbes in the soil, diseases and

to large scale. If you have success with a worm farm at home, why not mention it to friends, co-workers or family members, even suggest the practice to your local café?

This process is completely environmentally safe, produces an all-natural fertilizer for lawns, vegie gardens and indoor house plants and you can even save a few extra dollars. It

20

on

unknown. The

levels

known

evolution

of

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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

Run by volunteers, so all funds raised go direct to educating children who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity.

How would you like to give someone the helping hand that will change their life forever?

littlepaths.org.au

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ENVIRONMENT

QUEENSLAND 'THE RUBBISH STATE' Words and Pictures Greg Howell // When was the last time you went for a surf and didn’t see any rubbish?...the

5.25 trillion pieces of plastic are floating in the world’ s oceans and killing hundreds of thousands of marine animals every year.

1970’s! Queensland is the most littered state in Australia with plastic bottles and plastic packaging representing the bulk of that litter.

The rising tide of plastic pollution in our rivers and oceans is causing increasing worldwide concern. The CSIRO

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has recently completed a survey which found that “three

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quarters of the rubbish along Australia’s coast is plastic”.

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human food chain. 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic are floating

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in the world’s oceans and killing hundreds of thousands of marine animals every year.

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breaks up into small particles and enters the marine and

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Plastic debris is dangerous to the environment because it

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A Cash for Containers scheme that applies refundable deposits on all beverage containers is the proven approach to reducing beverage container litter with schemes operating in over 40 jurisdictions around the world.

Quality lobbying saw the now Queensland government taking a container deposit scheme to the election, which they won and so are now keen to deliver. State Environment Minister Steven Miles is seeking support from the community to bring the legislation to parliament & have it all in place by 2017. The Minister wants to hear from you and has set up his own survey at http://www.

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stevenmiles.com/cashforcans

so

please Have Your Say.

Greg Hunt is about to review our national marine debris plan - a

The Total Environment Centre formed

plan that doesn’t currently include

the

made

packaging as a high priority threat to

organisations,

Australia’s marine life. So head over

and held a Summit to discuss the

here and sign the petition at http://

latest developments and solutions.

www.boomerangalliance.org.au/

Boomerang

risso_petition

up

Boomerang of

Alliance,

supporting

Alliance

presented

If you’d like to show your support or

scheme

offer assistance for the upcoming

in

Queensland

which

will benefit the economy and the

event

environment.

Foundation’s Greg Howell on 0414

contact

Surfrider

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please

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a model for a container deposit

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www.facebook.com/surfridergct

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939 942 or check out -

contacting

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Here on the Gold Coast we will be movement,

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for them to show their support for

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environment

not

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organisations,

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just

all

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such a scheme and an eventual ban on plastic bags also. Gecko & Surfrider Foundation are working together towards an event on the 5th of September at Kurrawa Surf Life Saving Club, Broadbeach sponsored

by Barefoot Wines which we’d love to see you all there.

After reading this I know you want to do something right now so here you go… Federal Environment Minister

23

MUSIC

jake & andy

day both our Dads boast enviable record collections, with everything Van Morrison, CCR, The Doors, The

Local duo and mates Jake and Andy are not our usual

Stones and Led Zepplin… to the less

feature artists, but we had to showcase them because

so, like Sublime, Angus and Julia, The

what they do, they do well! Well known in the pub music

White Stripes and The Black Keys.

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scene, they’re now more often seen comfortably nestled

So it makes sense that Andy’s guitar fills

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in at private functions. We caught up with the guys to

are typically blues driven, while similarly,

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find out how they juggle Fatherhood, full time jobs, gigs

Jake’s vocal approach has powerful but

and of course where the bro-mance began. Explain your

smooth and smoky huskiness.

style of music. We started in cafés, bars & pubs but now

We are honest fans of a huge range

almost exclusively play private functions. So although our

of musical genres, and thoroughly

style is definitely all our own, we have to be pretty adaptable.

enjoy playing laidback, cruisy sets

The root of our sound is probably buried in rhythm n blues.

suited to Sunday arvos, as well as

Music was a huge part of both of our up-bringings. To this

using a bit more force and sweating

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Words Josephine Flynn // Pictures care of Jake and Andy

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from the expected inclusions like

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CULTURE

through a grittier, blues-rock ho-down. We generally don’t have to ever play

It’s obvious when you watch you two play together that

a song that we don’t personally like. We try to ‘respectfully’ cover these songs

you are also great mates, did you meet through music

we love and they generally come out of the speakers sounding like, love

or was the friendship first? We met by chance, on a boat,

every song we play and always try and make it sound like… well, Jake & Andy. How long have you both been playing music? Together (and counting a few years on the couch), for just over 10 years. Neither of us are musically ‘trained’, but

surfing through Indonesia.

We try to ‘respectfully’ cover these songs we love and they generally come out of the speakers sounding like, love every song we play and always try and make it sound like… well, Jake & Andy.

we’ve put in a bunch of time playing together

Andy was 19 and Jake was 17. We met on a boat and spent the next 12 days ‘trapped’ with each other. Luckily we got on

been best mates. We always had this common love for

half as good without the other.

music – liking the same bands and artists – but we also

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other’s style strengths, and to be honest, neither of us would probably sound

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pretty well, and it’s almost since then and there that we’ve

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and our skillset seems to have developed accordingly. We complement each

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travelled Europe and worked together for a couple of

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years. We’ve lived together a couple of times. We enjoyed

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each other’s company, and spent so much time together,

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that it was probably inevitable that we’d play an Open

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Mic night somewhere and decide that we had musical chemistry too. And that’s what happened. True story. You are both working full time jobs as well as family men.

How do you find them time to fit everything in?

In short, we have understanding wives. It’s funny but true.

When this goes to print both our wives would have just had babies (we should now have 2 kids each!). We both have full-time ‘day jobs’ and our weekends are largely taken up gigging. We’re lucky because we get to do it with each other, so it doesn’t really feel too much like work (though sometimes we can go several weeks without a ‘nothing to do day’, and that can be tough). Like any 25

get to play ‘our’ creations, we get to play ‘our’ versions

old real quick if you don’t truly love

of our favorite songs, and we get to do it close to home

it. We love what we do, and we get

and for functions that are (generally) the happiest day

to do it while hanging with your best

of someone’s life. Any plans on releasing an album?

mate. You play all over SE QLD and

Recording an album? Definitely! Releasing it? Who knows?

Nth NSW. Any plans for an Australia

We’ve been talking about it for years. We’ve got a bunch

wide tour? Ahhh the dream… back in

of tracks that would probably need a good freshen up, if

the day we were called Pretty Penny,

they were to be marketed publicly. It probably interests us

but we gave up on the ‘original

more to record what we have, exactly as it is right now, just

music’ thing a while back. I guess we

as a sort of sonic time capsule. If they sound like there’s

could organise an east coast pubs

potential, perhaps it could be taken further. But more than

tour and surf our brains out during

likely, it’d just be something nice to have. To look back

the day! But our young families might

on & spin for our kids, when they think we’re old and

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not appreciate that too much. We’ve

uncool. What is your favourite gig to date? Gigs we’ve

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found a really nice niche within the

played or that we’ve been to? Sheesh, both are tough

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Weddings & Corporate Functions

questions. But the easier to answer is definitely, gigs we’ve

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industries, and though we don’t

played. It’s certainly not the best we’ve played (I’d like to

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‘job’ you undertake, it’s going to get

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rock with lyrics we could really ‘feel’. We also listened to

properly, we played a long weekend

heap of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Silverchair, Chilli Peppers,

Saturday at North Straddie Pub. The

Soundgarden... and as we got a little more mature in

place was packed with about 200

the ‘feels’ department, we fell in love with a more folky

people. It was the mid-Summer, the

sound, and the story tellers, like Bob Dylan, early Jack

surf had pumped all day, we had

Johnson, Nick Cave, Augie March & Missy Higgins. But

barely enough songs up our sleeves

to answer your question, there’s 2 albums that we’d both

to get through a 3 hour set, everyone

put in our Top 3 of All Time; The Chili Peppers’ Blood

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go past the Sublime albums. Rock, reggae, sca &, punk-

when we’d only just started gigging

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album as youngsters? As youngsters we probably can’t

these days), but about 5 years ago,

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think we’ve got a much better sound

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doing the rounds too. All local guys doing good things

in Bali over a decade before and

for music. Where can our readers follow you? We’re on

could never have imagined we’d be

the wide wide world of web at www.jakeandandy.com.au

back there playing a gig together.

Or you can follow us on the other things too -

At a wedding no less! Playing over-

www.instagram.com/jake_and_andy

looking the same body of water

www.facebook.com/JakeAndAndy

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really like Agent 66 and Fat Albert as ‘cover bands’ that are

what a gig to be offered! We met

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of great solo acts performing locally at the moment. We

people, a great party, and seriously

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out? Mattie Barker, Ben Amor and Matt Buggy are a couple

Bali that was simply amazing. Good

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We’ve also played at a wedding in

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musicians/bands do you recommend our readers check

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Sugar Sex Magic & Sublime’s self-titled. What other local

those all-time weekends and gigs.

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was frothing… it was just one of

where we met (gosh we bromance, don’t we)! That was a special gig for

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us for sure. What was your favourite 27

MUSIC

SHOOTy & TOM Words Jade Hopley, Pictures see photos for credit // These guys met whilst studying at the Queensland conservatorium of music so you know they both possess an incredible amount of musical talent. They connect via a mutual love for folk music and their connection to the natural surroundings of the Gold Coast and Hinterlands. Tom and Shooty will transport you on a journey through G

their beautiful lyrics and soulful, melodic folk tunes. Jadeo recently caught up

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with the pair and had a chat about everything from their childhood heroes to,

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freedom. How long have you both been playing music? We have played

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music since we were wee little boys. We both have music in our blood and grew up with music all around

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We play raw, lush, organic folk tunes that carry happy vibes and thoughts of

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what the boys have planned for the rest of 2015. Explain your style of music?

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us. You guys met whilst studying at

Queensland

conservatorium,

what was it that inspired the two of you to collaborate? We both had similar interests and enjoyed the

We are inspired by nature and living with freedom. We are blessed to live in a location with beautiful beaches to the east and pristine rainforest to the west. Trying to divert from modern consumeristic culture and lifestyle.

same musical styles. Then one day we journeyed out to Springbrook, sat on the edge of a waterfall and started to jam.

Everything just fell into place, we wrote and recorded our single Meraki during this one day. (www.youtube.com/watch?v=67eRxVS2Zok&feature=youtu.be) I discovered your sweet sweet sounds at Surfers Paradise Festival, and was blown away by your musical talent, but also your song writing skills. I was Credit Jake Dodd

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transported into your world and it was wonderful. What inspires your lyrics?

We are inspired by nature and living with freedom. We are blessed to live in a location with beautiful beaches to the east and pristine rainforest to the west. Trying to divert from modern consumeristic culture and lifestyle. Soaking in the sunshine bathing in the sea, making the most of what Mother Nature has to offer. You released your first EP in 2014 called Meraki (available on itunes or pick up a cd at one of the lads live shows), any plans for another release anytime soon? Shoota has recently released a Credit Gerald Valilio

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Credit Gerald Valilio

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single ‘Heartstrings’ and we are releasing another single

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in a couple of months. You recently played at Broadbeach Country music

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festival, how was it? It was an interesting experience not playing to our usual

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crowd. It was nice to play alongside our friends ‘Fox and Fiasco’ who played

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an awesome set. What was your favorite album as a youngster? Shoota:

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Gorrilaz. Tom: John Butler ‘Sunrise over Sea’ What other local musicians/ bands do you recommend our readers check out? Aquila Young, Tommy Sheehan, Jackson James Smith, Scott Dalton, Creature Kind. Where can I readers follow you?

Facebook (facebook.com/tomdoddmusic or facebook.com/shootymusic) Instagram (@tomdoddmusic or @shooots) Soundcloud (https://soundcloud.com/shooty-tomdodd) Web (http://tomdoddmusic.tumblr.com)

Credit Gerald Valilio

____

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NUTRITION

Words and Pictures Kelly Fielding //

help was called in to try and pull

My journey to healthy eating wasn’t

me back to a normal life again.

without challenge and obstacles.

Somewhere along the timeline of my

As a child and teenager I had a very

healing journey I discovered yoga. I

unique relationship to food. I didn’t

still remember walking out of my first

like junk food as a child, I refused

class and the sense of intoxicating

the food offers at children’s birthday

peace that had nestled into the

parties and my lunch boxes contained

nooks and crannies of my physical body. I was banned from gyms and

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homemade sandwiches and muesli

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bars- food that I recognized as wholesome and nourishing, even

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NOURISH BOWLS

fruit

and

vegetables,

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from a young age. My parents thought I was a dream child; demolishing broccoli at dinner and refusing ice

As a child and teenager I had a very unique relationship to food. I didn’ t like junk food as a child, I refused the food offers at children’ s birthday parties and my lunch boxes contained primarily fruit and vegetables

cream for dessert. Yet when I hit my

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early twenties, my relationship to food

intense exercise at this point, yet

went from careful and conscious to

yoga was given the tick of approval

destructive and debilitating.

and it became my saving grace. It

For several years I suffered from

taught me how to see my body as a

anorexia and bulimia. My already

home for my inner spirit. It taught me

slight figure became nothing more

how to breathe and find stillness and

than skin and bone and professional

calmness in the hectic maze of my

chaotic mind. It taught me how to find balance both on and off the mat and my life began to swerve gracefully back on track again.

Turning vegetarian when I was 15 I already enjoyed what I came to read about as a yogic diet or satvic diet. I read all I could about ayuvedic principals, about nourishing the body with wholefoods, about eating for grounding and strength as well as lightness and clarity. Combining my passion for yoga and my original and innate love of healthy food, I began working in a vegetarian café, learning about food as medicine as I nursed my own body back to health.

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The concepts of beauty and devotion have always ignited my yoga practice and

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have consciously been carried into my daily life. When I create and serve food to

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Rainbow Nourish Bowl //

Place the leafy greens into the bottom

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the spirit and soul. I like to encourage people to eat mindfully and joyously, with

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others I strive to offer food that nourishes the physical body while also speaks to

I

deep gratitude for the food on their plate, the company that surrounds them

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of two bowls.

1 cup of cooked millet

Then simply arrange the millet and

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One of my favorite things to create is what I call Nourish Bowls. Nourish Bowls

1 large carrot grated

vegetables

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are a combination of clean proteins, healthy fats and vibrant vitamins and

1 medium beetroot grated

different sections.

minerals that offers the body all it needs to thrive and glow from the inside out.

2 roma tomatoes chopped

Add the avocado and top with hemp

Nourish bowls have an infinite number of variations and can be easy adapted to

2 cups of mixed leafy greens

seeds.

suit seasonal produce and personal taste. They can grace a breakfast, lunch or

½ a ripe avocado

Scatter the millet with black sesame

dinner table and their colorful nature means they are usually enjoyed by those

1 teaspoon of hemp seeds

seeds for contrast.

familiar with healthy cuisine or those new to the world of things such as quinoa,

1 teaspoon of black sesame seeds

Add the sauerkraut in the center.

the

bowl

in

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Feel free to top with tahini, olive oil,

to eating and are a wonderful way to introduce people to the concept of eating

Optional

for health as well as pleasure.

Olive oil

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chia seeds or kale. They fit perfectly in line with my ‘food as medicine’ approach

around

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and the life they choose to live.

lemon or your favorite herbs.

Lemon juice Tahini Fresh herbs 31

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Prepare the chia pudding by adding the milk to the seeds

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Sunrise Nourish Bowl //

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clumps. Add the sweetener and vanilla and mix to

1 teaspoon of coconut nectar

combine.

A small pinch of vanilla powder

While the chia absorbs, slice up your fresh fruit and

Fresh fruit sliced - I used banana, kiwi

prepare your muesli by mixing all the ingredients together

fruit and blueberries

in equal portions- I used around 1 tablespoon of each

Homemade or bought muesli -

ingredient. You can also use your favorite store purchased

I mixed dedicated coconut, flaked

variety.

almonds, flax seeds, dates, raisons,

When the chia is ready, simply arrange the chia pudding,

pumpkin seeds

muesli and sliced fruit in your bowl. You can drizzle with

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absorb, mixing frequently so it sets evenly and without

1 cup of coconut milk or almond milk

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and whisking well. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes to 3 tablespoons of chia seeds

more coconut nectar or add a dollop of coconut yogurt if you desire. ____

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SURF

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Credit Matt Burgess

freya plumm Words by Jade Hopley // Originally hailing from the far south coast of NSW, Freya Prumm now calls Coolangatta home. Well when she isn’t galavanting around the globe chasing waves and competing in WQS events. Freya’s goal is to join the world tour, and with the dedication and talent she has, it’s safe to say we will be seeing her up against Steph and the likes before we know it! Seriously! The girls throws airs as high as Craig Anderson and gets barrelled as deep as Kelly! She has got it! So you can imagine how excited we were to have a chat about her latest adventures in Mexico with her lady slider counterparts!

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Credit Fran Miller

H O L I S T I C

Cabos, we suggested she change all of her plans and

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Mexico and the States. What was the reason for the

join us. So she did. It was a pleasure to travel with these

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trip? Firstly, I was competing in a QS 6000 competition

inspiring ladies. During our trip we were already discussing

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in Los Cabos, on the Baja coast which coincided-­ish with

the destination for our reunion! How long have you been

my 5 weeks break from Uni. What better way is there than

surfing? I tried to start when I was pretty young – about

to spend your Uni break gallivanting through Mexico

age 5, I hated it and was totally scared of the water. At

with your pals? Who did you go with? Frances Miller –

about age 8 I got more comfortable in the warm waters

cofounder of GSN, Annabelle “Chips” Smith – former

of Coolangatta, where we were holidaying. My parents

national running champion, Anna Segal – former world

pushed me into 1foot Green Mount,. We hear you’re a bit

champion, Olympian, slope style skier (and hell woman

of a Burrito fiend. How do the genuine mexican burritos

– you should see the size of the jumps she goes off), and

compare the 241 tuesday Burrito’s at Aztec here, in

the grom Tayla Hanak – South Aus big wave charger and

Cooly? Yes, you hear correctly, Burritos are my passion.

only 18 years old! Tayla was travelling on her own in Los

Mexico is actually more about soft shell Tacos, essentially

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You just got back from an epic 7 week trip through

a mini burrito. To be honest, I’m more of a Sombrero gal, however when my

compete in 3-­4 weeks time in the States for the Super Girl

mother comes to visit, she shouts me Aztec’s! Generally, the main difference

Pro, let alone surf the rest of the trip. But my luck changed

in burrito is you get more cheese, guacamole, and sour cream in Australia and

when Fran and I were cruising in Puerto Escondido and

the USA. In Mex, is more about the rice, cabbage, bean and salsa combinations

we ran into Fran’s friends, and one of them, Claire, just

with some carne. I kept a tally on my eats: 53 tacos, 13 burritos & 8 quesadillas,

happened to be a physio. She helped me so much, bless

in 52 days. My goal is to eat more next trip ha ha. We also hear you sustained

her soul! Then I just rehabbed it the best I could and

an injury on the trip, how did you manage that? Yes I sprained my ankle,

strapped it so I could surf super fun Puerto in the final

probably a week into the mainland Mex portion of the trip. I managed it poorly

days of my Mex trip. What was it like having to sit on the

-­mainly because I had no idea of what I’d done or the extent of damage. Fran,

beach taking photos while your friends got to surf all

Anna and Chips had similar injuries in the past so they gave me some advice

day? I tried to stay active, I chose to be in the water with

but I was still freaking out because I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to

my friends to try and capture the vibe with the Go Pro. I am not that confident in the ocean without a board so it was good for me. But yeah it was pretty hard watching super playful right handers roll by, and also the maching barrels of Puerto Escondido. But I was quite relaxed about the whole thing, I think that the universe gives you what you need, and I really needed to rest. What’s it like traveling with a bunch of like minded surfer girls? I would say for 98% of the time it’s the best thing ever! I normally travel to events solo so it was a new thing for me, to have friends, ha ha. When things go wrong, it’s easier to keep on laughing when you’re surrounded by patient individuals.

Travelling will bring out the best and the worst in people, it really is a good way to get to know someone more thoroughly. I was really grateful to share the adventures with such talented and warm souled females who are now some of my best friends. You mentioned that you didnt

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Credit Fran Miller

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too pleased. A memorable night was when a hurricane was hitting Cabo and

adventures did you get up to, whilst

the power went out. Fran and I got our guitars out and we jammed for hours

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waiting for a new swell to hit? Yes

playing mainly old school Grinspoon. Not quite known for our expansive

V

some political turmoil in Oaxaca

repertoire, yet we made up a song that kind of became the theme of our trip.

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meant we couldn’t drive down south

You just have to make your own fun no matter the situation. We sat in the car

where we intended to surf which

for 4 hours in a 2km long queue of cars that didn’t move for 3 days, the grom

meant we missed some good swell.

and I giggled the whole time! Tell us how you got into surfing and what your

We had some odd things happened

aspirations are for the future? I got into surfing through my parents, they are

to us, booked a hotel that didn’t exist,

both solid surfers. I remember being at our home break, Merimbula Bar, and I

the political manifestations forcing

paddled myself into a peeling left that went for ages and I totally claimed it! It

road closure, about 3 times! I actually

was the double fist pump to stylish dismount. I couldn’t even turn or anything.

experienced two Earth quakes! I

It was that feeling of going down the line that I am forever chasing. I really want

also got us bogged and punctured

to be successful on the WQS so I can join the World Championship Tour. I am

a tyre. Oops. We had such fun four

currently re-­thinking my approach because I have not seen results. Change is

I

wheel driving and exploring the coast! However, the hire car company wasn’t

of waves, So what shenanigans/

C

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really score big on the trip in terms

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Credit Kim Eulenstein

definitely coming on. Also, I want to challenge myself in bigger surf, mainly just get big barrels. I feel the most satisfied in surfing when I take off on a wave that scares me and just pull in. I should note that I am easily scared. I also want to finish my Pharmacy degree, play music more seriously and go on hell surf trips.

Any advice for any young grommies out there reading this, that are thinking of going pro some day? I don’t feel like I am the best person to take advice from, but here it goes anyway. Look after your body, you only get one. It’s the vehicle that will allow your goals to be fulfilled if you nourish it properly so stick to wholefoods! This also includes your mind; resolve your past traumas, talk G

about your problems, learn to manage stress -­you need to be free and frothing

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to have the confidence and belief that you can do it.

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• Don’t go cheap on yourself – you are worth the investment.

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• Try to set some process goals that will ultimately lead you to your ultimate

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C

goal if you commit to the process.

• Get a team of health professionals and coaches who you trust will support

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you 100% of the way.

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• Learn about how your body works and about nutrition.

• One of the best ways to improve is by watching footage of your self. Challenge your self, go out even if you are scared.

• Going over the falls is better than not going at all. Go out even if its crappy.

• Remember that some people never get to see the ocean in their lives so don’t carry on like a spoiled so and so when someone accidently gets in your way, you are actually the lucky one.

• Don’t try and catch every single wave, let a few go here and there. Appreciate all that your parents do for you. ____

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WELL-BEING

The other day I sent out an email with list of instructions

The obsessive addiction to social

to my clients. The instructions were very straight forward

media in all its forms and endless

all they had to do is follow each step. Although these

online information is creating a

instructions were simple they were long winded requiring a

whirlwind that pulls people into a

certain level of patience to work through them. Accidently,

hypnotic

I had forgotten to create a link on the document so they

connection and disconnection. Have

could just click on it and would get sent straight to the

you ever been on your iPhone or

page they needed. An interesting thing happened; half

any smart phone scrolling endlessly

of my clients found a way to make the link work by copying

through your Facebook or Instagram

and pasting the URL into their browser. The other half

feed and there is nothing there that

emailed me asking for me to send them the URL because

interests you BUT you can‘t stop? It

they couldn’t click on it and didn’t want to type it in the

encapsulates us!

browser letter by letter. What really interested me and got

younger generation that get pulled

me thinking about the reality of a Zombie Apocalypse was

into a trance most humans do. But

the half that figured out they could copy and paste were

the difference between us in our late

all 30 years old and up. The other half wanting the URL

twenties onwards is we grew up in an

were 21 years old and under.

era relatively free from the constant

Why was it that all of the under 21’s didn’t attempt to

bombardment of online information

solve the problem? It got me thinking about the way our

and social media.

younger generations are being shaped by the obsessive

I still remember being in High

Words Kate Chiffey-Gray. // I have a confession to make.

culture of social media.

School and the first Commodore 64

I’m slightly obsessed with the show “The Walking Dead”.

be constantly dialled in and stimulated mentally. They

computer was released!

I even have a whole strategy of survival if we encounter

are being sucked into a vortex of instantly gratifying

we grew up in a time where we

a real Zombie Apocalypse! HAHA! I can definitely tell

information, which, from a recent study in the USA, the

had to use our imaginations to

you I am 100% sure the best place to shack up would be

average teenager spends 7.5 hours looking at! This desire

cure boredom, entertain ourselves,

Bunnings as they have an endless supply of zombie killing

to be constantly connected is forming a modern day

exercise patience to get things we

weapons!

Zombie Apocalypse in our younger generations.

wanted like see our friends, or even

trance

of

simultaneous

H O L I

It isn’t only the

S T I L I V I N G

They are being conditioned to

C

the importance of boredom

Because

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games 70 times a day. The mind is being constantly

us to think outside the box, practice patience problem

distracted and stimulated.

solve and exercise individual creativity. This makes us less

It is not uncommon for 10 and 11 year olds to have phones,

vulnerable to becoming a zombie slave to the endless

Instagram and Facebook accounts. They are growing up in

stream of online information.

a World where they are constantly entranced by the world

In this mass technology era the most important skill that

of online information leading them to not be able to

is being lost in our younger generation is that of learning

develop the ability to be ok with discomfort or boredom.

how to be “bored”. They have no idea how to do nothing,

We need to re-install in our younger generation that it’s ok

to just sit and admire their surroundings without snapping

to just be and not to not need or do anything.

a selfie of themselves and uploading it to Instagram and

With these constant distractions of our ipads, iphones

L

Facebook. There are a lot of negative connotations to the

and computers infiltrating nearly every moment of

C I

word “bored”, I am not using it in a negative way. I simply

existence we are losing the gift that is found within

S T

mean to just be, without the need for distraction, or to

stillness, nothingness, boredom or discomfort. This gift is

I

document the current moment with a Facebook post or

discovering our own human strength, courage, creativity

an Instagram photo.

and discipline. Without these gifts we simply become

Because the younger generation has grown up with always

slaves to the technology and social media channels we are

having something in front of them entertaining them, they

intoxicated by and only ever reach half our full potential as

have no idea how to mentally dis-connect. Technology,

human beings.

the internet and social media has enriched our lives in

So let’s say no to the Zombie Apocalypse by putting down

many ways that is for certain. The constant stream of

our smart devices and being present, being bored and

information isn’t all bad of course but the fact that it is

being uncomfortable.

H

O

L

I

V

I

N

G

learn new information, we still developed skills that allow

a constant stream is an issue. On average an Australian teenager checks their phone to see Facebook or play

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____

H O

THANKS FOR READING!

L I S T I C

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L I V I N G

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