FOLK SONG

SHOP LOCALE Wandering folk

FOLK SONG

A visit to Byron Bay isn’t complete without a spot of shopping, and the Industrial Estate has become quite the destination for boutique labels local to the area.

The Wandering Folk showroom is one you don’t want to miss. A visit to the newly renovated retail space is like a magical carpet ride, thanks to the Byron brand’s now-iconic range of colourful and retroinspired picnic rugs, throw blankets and accessories that will have you dreaming of camping adventures, picnics in fields of joy and long, languid days spent lounging by the ocean (sigh!). While their beautiful products look great online and are oh-so-insta worthy, there is something really special about seeing these hand-illustrated and carefully crafted designs up close and in person. The picnic rug prints just pop with their bold print and patterns and chunky tassels, and their signature carry straps are a thing of true beauty. Everything in the Wandering Folk range is illustrated and designed by the brand’s founder, Sharnee Thorpe. A textile designer by trade, Sharnee started Wandering Folk back in 2015 when she couldn’t find a picnic rug that was both practical and suited her style.

Sharnee was out on a photoshoot during our visit, but we were greeted by the friendly Showroom Manager Fro, who recommended a few local spots to see the upcoming sunset (rug in tow!).

Whether you go with a premium cotton canvas picnic rug or recycled cotton throw blanket or one of their trendy cooler bags, you’ll be smitten with your investment into a timeless Wandering Folk piece ... and become the envy of all of your friends at your next picnic! Next stop: Swing by Bay Grocer in Byron to pick up some artisan crackers and local cheeses, grab a bottle of natural wine from Luna Wine Store, and head to Belongil Beach with your Wandering Folk picnic rug to enjoy the cotton candy sky. Visit Wandering Folk at 4a/11 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay

wanderingfolk.com

LOCAL

ECLECTIC

As one of the Northern Rivers’ most beloved stores and a destination in its own right, Fabulous Mrs Fox is the OG of the collectable and the cool in Brunswick Heads.

For the last decade, Fabulous Mrs Fox has been an icon of Bruns, so we thought it fit to sit down with the owner and the (equally fabulous!) Parri Wieckmann, to talk a little more about her colourful world, in-store and beyond. First things first, introduce yourself — who are you, and what do you do? My name is Parri Wieckmann, and I am the owner of Fabulous Mrs Fox located in beautiful Brunswick Heads.

Tell us more — how did it all start, and how has the store evolved to what it is today? Fabulous Mrs Fox has been trading for around 11 years, and I managed the store for the original owners for about five years before purchasing it from them in 2019. I absolutely loved the shop so much that I treated it as my own, so I didn’t hesitate when the opportunity came up to purchase it. What kind of an experience have you tried to create for your customers and your community? Fabulous Mrs Fox’s aesthetic is whimsical with a bit of vintage as well as new and quirky. I try to keep it interesting; I’m always looking for new products (firstly local and secondly Australian made) to keep the interest alive. We have so many regulars from local to interstate visitors that travel here every year. It would get so boring for them if they kept seeing the same thing every time they walked into the shop, plus there are so many new artisans popping up around here and further afield that deserve to be shared with as many people as possible. Tell us about your neighbourhood, where you live, and what you love most about your community? When I first came up from the Northern Beaches of Sydney 20 years ago, Brunswick Heads was a quaint seaside town. Fast forward to today, and it is full of fabulous shops, absolutely delicious cafes and restaurants, and what I consider to be the best pub in the Northern Rivers. It’s a town for every interest, but it’s not too big to be overwhelming, which is something I absolutely love. Which other local artists, designers or creatives are you most inspired by at the moment? I love one of our most recent labels that have come on board. Wandering Folk is a brand started locally with gorgeous picnic rugs (which we stock) and is now an international success. Seeing where and how it started, to where it is today, is a truly inspirational story and should inspire others to know that what you apply yourself to can make your dreams come true.

What is up next for you and Fabulous Mrs Fox? What should we be keeping an eye out for? Coming into the Christmas period, we are super busy, not only with all our beautiful customers, but we also started a charity three years ago called the Brunswick Heads Community Christmas Tree. It involves putting up a Christmas tree out the front of Fabulous Mrs Fox, which is filled with tags that have the age of children from one up to 13 years old. People who would like to donate then come and pick a tag, get an appropriate gift from wherever they choose and then drop it back to the shop. On 23rd December, I drop off all the donated gifts to local community groups to hand out to local children that might not be as blessed as others in our area. Last year, well over 100 Christmas presents were handed over to smiling faces that might not have been otherwise. So, if you visit Bruns leading up to Christmas, keep an eye out for the Bruns Community Christmas Tree if you would like to donate a gift. Other than this we are looking forward to having people be able to visit us again and enjoy our beautiful little town.

Discover more at Fabulous Mrs Fox, 10 Park Street, Brunswick Heads. fabulousmrsfox.com

SWEET TALK

The rise of rum in the Northern Rivers

An emerging clutch of distilleries in the Northern Rivers sees a local rum renaissance, one where the focus is on a spirit of creativity with fresh sophistication.

Rum’s renaissance is about more than the perceived superiority of the spirit. It reveals an appreciation of the Northern Rivers’ terroir – traditionally a French winemaking term that describes the distinctive environmental factors that influence a drink’s character, such as climate and soil. The region’s luscious coastal landscape lends itself well to growing sugarcane and, therefore, rum. In Wollumbin Mount Warning we have the source of rich volcanic soils, and 250 days of sunshine a year not only draws visitors, but those sun rays sweet-talk sugar cane from the earth with whopping speed. The newest distillery to raise the rum bar is Cabarita Spirits and their flagship brand, Soltera Rum. Founder Keri Algar says subtropical and sunny Cabarita Beach is the perfect place to handcraft these quality spirits. “It’s idyllic. The Pacific Ocean and a cool sea breeze on one side and on the other, fields and fields of sugar cane. Where sugarcane grows, rum flows,” says Keri. “Here in the Tweed Shire most of the local cane is processed at the Condong Sugar Mill, just outside of Murwillumbah, and this is where our molasses comes from.”

“WHERE SUGARCANE GROWS, RUM FLOWS”

A by-product of the sugar-making process, molasses is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium and selenium. Mixed with water and yeast, it ferments. This fermentation creates a ‘wine’ or ‘beer’ which is then distilled to make rum. Not all rum is made from molasses. Rhum Agricole is a style produced from fermented sugar cane juice and is what distillers at Winding Road Distillery and Husk Distillers use. “For Soltera, molasses was the obvious choice; it’s a by-product of the local industry and is readily available. Once fermented, it’s distilled twice in our copper pot still – I named the still ‘Felix’ after my grandfather who worked as a chemist in a sugar factory in Spain; it’s one of those weird twists of fate I guess!” Released at the end of 2020, Soltera Rum’s debut spirit is called Blanco. It’s a lightly spiced cane spirit and in Australia can’t legally be called a “rum” thanks to an antiquated Australian law that requires a spirit to be aged in wood for two years. “Rum is a remarkably diverse spirit, there is so much to appreciate,” says Keri. “It can be rich and complex or light and easy, aged for decades or served fresh off the still. Blanco is a very approachable spirit, elegant and non-intimidating. There are barrel-aged products in the pipeline for Soltera Rum, but for now, Blanco makes an excellent daiquiri!” Artisanal rum is now afforded the same respect as a fine wine or single malt scotch. This is apparent in beverage menus across the region, which reflect an increasing maturity and curiosity in consumer tastes. “Our local bars and restaurants are doing a terrific job at shining the light on craft beverages. Their cocktails range from the classics done well to the inventive and the downright ingenious. It’s an exciting time to be a part of the rise of rum.”

cabaritaspirits.com

SHOP MUST DOmarkets

Ask most people around here what they love doing with their weekends, and you’ll usually find them hitting up the many and varied farmers and artisan markets that span our verdant coastline and countryside. With an abundance of creative and colourful markets held every Saturday and Sunday throughout the Northern Rivers, you can take your pick and soak up a relaxed morning of shopping, dining and entertainment.

THE MAKER & FINDERS MARKET

Over 90 independent artists, vintage collectors, DIY-ers, food trucks, handmade delights, and fashion designers are featured at each Maker & Finders Market, drawing an eclectic crowd of shoppers, music and art lovers alike. You can easily fill a morning perusing the stalls, and the market is set in a beautiful and family-friendly park, making it a great place to spend time relaxing as well. Throw a blanket on the grass and enjoy the live music while the children play in the newly renovated adventure park, go for a skate or play a game of tennis. Across the street, inside a classic art deco building, you will find the M-Arts Precinct, where there is a curated indoor arts and design market — a vibrant place where artists and art lovers can come together over coffee, drinks and food. Discover beautiful handmade creations, chat with resident ceramicists, illustrators and sculptors with live studio demos in their crafts throughout the day.

3rd Saturday of every month from 9 am - 2 pm. Knox Park, Murwillumbah

POTTSVILLE BEACH MARKETS

This long-loved friendly community market always has lots on offer and is set in the heart of the thriving township of Pottsville (or ‘Potty’ as the locals like to call it!). Visit the markets for a great day out; pick up your fruit, veggies, homemade goodies, art, crafts, plants, jewellery, clothes, gifts and much more. The markets also accommodate community stalls that promote and support local interest groups. The markets are family-friendly (inclusive of fur babies) and just a stone’s throw from the stunning estuary, Mooball Creek. The markets have been managed by Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre (PBNC) since 2003, and you can access PBNC via a driveway at the end of Philip Street where (on the 1st Sunday market) their Op Shop, Furniture Store and pop-up, outdoor Trash & Treasure stalls beckon, with all proceeds used to support community programmes.

1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. Philip Street Reserve, Pottsville

BRUNSWICK HEADS MARKETS

The pristine Brunswick River makes for an incredibly scenic backdrop to the many cafes, restaurants, playgrounds, and shops, and, of course, to the famous monthly markets. From 7 am on the 1st Saturday of every month, the Brunswick Heads Markets come alive with the many artisan stalls, which provide clothing, plants, food, candles, soaps, coffee, and more. The products found here are a mix of locally made and imported goods, while the delicious nosh from the market food stalls is also not to be missed. Parking is available free of charge throughout the town, which is an easy walking distance from the markets. After exploring the various market stalls, Brunswick town centre and beach offer activities for the remainder of the day — a perfect excuse to spend ample hours exploring the best of this charming village.

1st Saturday of every month. Memorial Park, Brunswick Heads

MULLUMBIMBY COMMUNITY MARKET

Established in 1989, the Mullumbimby Community Market is an eternal favourite with locals across the Northern Rivers, set up like a buzzing little family festival as a way for the community to come together and sell goods with great, local live music buskers and yummy food. The market is held on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 8 am - 2 pm and is situated in lovely Summers Park. There’s always a bargain or something special to be found at Mullumbimby Community Market with a range of local stallholders, including artisan clothing, jewellery and homewares, plants, up-cycled and retro stalls, eco-products, massage, face painting, fresh juices, healing crystals and grassy areas to relax on. According to many locals, this market has the best vibes, with a warm, welcoming all-inclusive experience for everyone (we agree!).

3rd Saturday of every month from 8 am - 2 pm. Summers Park – Corner Stuart & Myokum Streets, Mullumbimby

BYRON COMMUNITY MARKET

Since 1987, Byron Community Market has been a premier showcase of Byron’s intrinsic authenticity and lively culture, supporting local businesses and talent. Fused with the combination of a welcoming atmosphere, artistic talent, fantastic food, local musicians and authentic products, the Byron Community Market offers an inspiring illustration of Byron’s local community at its best. As the Community Markets aim to increase environmental and communal prosperity, each month, they feature a local charity to collect donations at the entrances to the market to give a major boost to their fundraising. There are also initiatives in place to ensure waste minimisation and to maximise recycling. It is a truly special event that welcomes everyone from nearby to contribute to the Byron Bay community. Not to be missed!

1st Sunday of the month. Main Beach Foreshore, Byron Bay

THE BANGALOW FLEA MARKETS

Founded by a local Bangalow family, these humble but thoroughly enticing markets offer a collection of stalls from established businesses, with regular market vendors and locals wanting to sell their pre-loved items in a relaxed “garage sale” style. Creating a community market that supports small businesses and families from surrounding areas, The Bangalow Flea Markets have created a new buzzing environment where there’s something for everyone. Stallholders sell new and retro clothing, furniture, self-care items and services, and unique bits and pieces. Whatever you may find, it’s a fun day out to hunt for bargains, hang out with family or catch up with some friends.

2nd Saturday of every month from 8 am - 2 pm. Bangalow Public School, Bangalow

KINGSCLIFF BEACHSIDE MARKETS

Kingscliff Markets are a bi-monthly institution on the Tweed Coast, promising an enjoyable morning out for all ages. Held right by the beach on Marine Parade in Kingscliff, the markets offer the chance to spend a relaxing Saturday morning strolling through the vast array of gourmet food, produce, craft, artwork, fashion, jewellery, flowers, gifts and food stalls, pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables and have an afternoon feast or swim after browsing through the stalls. There is plentiful parking, too.

2nd & 4th Saturday of every month from 8 am - 1 pm. Jack Bayliss Park on Marine Parade, Kingscliff

SIMMERdown

From eco-friendly, sustainable cabins to a rustic country cottage, these unique and local accommodation options are an escape from the ordinary. Slow down, retreat and reconnect.

WRITTEN BY NATALIE BANNISTER

Images: Tom Patterson

ASHI

Hidden away in its own private world at the end of a valley among the lush Byron hinterland, on the traditional land of the Bundjalung Nation, lies the tiny cabin of Ashi. And it sets the scene for a wild escape like no other. Part of the Unyoked family of architect-designed cabins inspired by the tiny house movement, Ashi has been purposely built on private land in the rural countryside. The small but mighty sustainable stay is all a part of Unyoked’s ‘adventure-and-chill’ concept, offering cabins in the wild for travellers wanting an off-grid experience, seeking out moments in nature, away from their fast-paced lives. Dotted with fragrant citrus trees populated by singing bluebells and sat next to a creek, the fully solarpowered Ashi is a salve for the soul. You’re provided with everything you need to go off-grid, from the towels, bedding, kitchen supplies and even toilet paper to little luxuries and comforts like a hot shower, fire pit and wood-fired bath. Bonus: you can even bring your doggo. Visitors are sent coordinates a couple of days out from their stay, keeping the precise location of the hideout a treasured secret to discover.

Surrounded by the beauty of the bush in a large valley, Ashi welcomes you to regain your peace and stillness. The waitlist is open now.

THE CAMP.EARTH

Nestled away in the hinterland close to Byron Bay and Mullumbimby but far enough to unwind, disconnect and escape the crowds, The Camp.Earth by Salty Cabins offers an indulgent earth-friendly getaway for a select few guests. Designed as an off-grid cabin and luxurious campsite experience, a stay here allows guests to switch off and get a taste of a more self-sufficient way of life and easy, simple, conscious living. The A-Frame is a fully self-sufficient, secluded oasis perched on top of a hill with breathtaking 360-degree uninterrupted views that allow you to watch the sunrise over the ocean and the sunset behind the mountains. The consciously created dreamy bedroom space features all the creature comforts you could desire, belying its otherwise simplistic design. There’s a big comfy queen-sized bed fitted with buttery-soft organic linen bedding, while a few steps along the path to your private architecturally designed, solar-powered shack reveals a warm shower with a view, a composting toilet, kitchenette and a breakfast bar.

Camp.Earth also offers The Cabin as a larger and, again, fully self-sufficient accommodation alternative. This secluded oasis boasts uninterrupted ocean views through Yelgun Valley and features a modern yet minimalist design, with the same plush fit-out and amenities and the bonus of a fireplace for cozy winter nights. The Camp.Earth gives back, too. As a member of 1% for The Planet, every stay sees a tree planted. And they also donate $20 to Sea Shepherd for every booking.

saltycabins.com