The Cutthroat Journal Issue 4

T H E

$14.95 AUD $16.95 NZD

ISSUE #four Summer 2014

B A R B E R

T R A D E

J O U R N A L

X HAIR

LYNX LYNX HAIR HAIR

LYNX HAIR LYNX HAIR 2

LYNX HAIR

LYNX HAIR

LYNX HAIR LYNX HAIR 3

ISSUE 04 THEN THE GRINCH THOUGHT OF SOMETHING HE HADN’T BEFORE! WHAT IF CHRISTMAS, HE THOUGHT, DOESN’T COME FROM A STORE. WHAT IF

Editor

James (Jimbo) Holder Phone 0431 707 443 jimbo@thecutthroatjournal.com

CHRISTMAS...PERHAPS...

MEANS A LITTLE BIT MORE!

Sub-editor

Helen Gleeson helen@thecutthroatjournal.com

– DR. SEUSS, HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!

PUBLISHER

Sean Edwards sean@thecutthroatjournal.com ART director

Joey Dable creative@thecutthroatjournal.com PHOTOGR APHy

Editor's Ramble

H

JAMES Holder - EDITOR of the CUTTHROAT JOURNAL

ey guys, Happy festive season. Remember Festivus from Seinfeld? It was a celebration that Frank Costanza had invented in protest of the commercialism of Christmas. The day involved ‘the airing of grievances’ and ‘feats of strength’. Funny stuff.

But don’t you reckon Frank was right in his own warped way? Christmas has gotten so commercial and can just be bloody exhausting. What with all the present buying for the neighbours aunty who once said your garden looked nice and the 50 pre-school teachers who are just so thrilled to receive another box of Roses (they’re still around right?) and the menu planning and the millions of dollars on groceries and the food preparing and the expectations.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m totally not being a Scrooge.

I really love Christmas. I love taking time out with my family and celebrating life. Eating good food and having a food coma nap. But it’s the pressure. And the excess. So much excess. I’m carrying on I know.

I’m sort of thinking out loud. But your dad might appreciate a card from a charity, where you paid for a family in a third world country to receive a family of chickens on his behalf, which means food and income for them. Instead of a pair of socks. Or you could buy the socks. It’s really your choice.

Maybe Christmas might be a lot less stressful if we start to think of others, people in need I mean. Some people around us are doing it so tough. Financially or

emotionally. Those people are gonna be sitting in your chair at some stage, getting a fresh cut. Maybe you could give them one on the house. Or find out about local charities that are putting on Christmas day lunch for the lonely and needy and let them know about it. I could go on. I am going on, but I’ll stop now. I’m sure you catch my drift.

We had an awesome time in the US in October, competing in The World Beard and Moustache Championships. I felt like Andrew Gaze at the Olympics as I carried the Australian flag proudly in a street parade through Portland, Oregon. Portland is such a rad place. I also went to Disneyland. I bought my kids a Mouseketeer hat there. I’m such a good dad hey. You can catch the full story on our trip in this issue.

SO…. a massive cheers to all you guys for supporting us in our first year of publishing! What a bunch of legends you are! We’ve really been overwhelmed by your kind words and your heck yeahs since The Cutthroat Journals’ first issue. The amazing, passionate barbers we’ve met across the country and across the world have blown us away. Each of us unique but same same in our devotion to our trade and our clients. So much love for the barber industry.

The future’s looking bright mates!

Take care out there over Christmas and New Year!

We’ll be back in 2015, stay in touch and let us know what you’re up to!

Don’t be a stranger, Jimbo.

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Michael Marchment info@the-mil.com

Business Development

David Stark Phone 0411 655 411 david@thecutthroatjournal.com Subscriptions

Fax. 02 6583 7163 subscribe@thecutthroatjournal.com

Contributors Sean Edwards - Cafe Culture International Frank Bazzano Maizey Wilton Roddy Donegan - Barber Co. Nathan Green Dr. Ben De Campo Robert Marlowe Luke Swenson Rob Oakeshott Ash Benson S T A Y

C O N N E C T E D

No part of this publication may be used, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publishers.

DISCLAIMER: A large portion of original material is created by Cutthroat and its contributors, including text, fonts, photography, and art work - content used from public domain like social media sites we agree are not the property of the Cutthroat Journal, and in all cases media permission has been sought via electronic or verbal agreement.

The content and views expressed in this journal by individuals and the Cutthroat Journal are provided in good faith as information only. No guarantee is made of the accuracy of the information provided. The Cutthroat Journal takes no responsibility for any action taken by others as a result of the content of this site.

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For more information visit www.fudge.com or call Sabre Corporation 1300 764 437

in this issue

COnTenTS 30

B e H i N d

Portland R a zor co.

THE

S C e N e S

Sean Edwards - Publisher of the CUTTHROAT JOURNAL

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B L E E D I NG E D GE PROD U CTS

A nigh t wit h t h e Real Tr ip p y

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43

Chasing Ghosts

THE REGULARS 0 8 Bleeding Edge Products 5 6 Cutthroat Barber Reviews 8 5 The Fit Barber

Road T rip USA

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a wesom e gif t ideas

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And I’m back on the road again! In the past month I visited Portland, Oregon in the USA for The Beard and Moustache Competition, then came back to travel to every state in Australia. I’ve been a judge for this years first ever Café of The Year competition as part of my other world in the coffee biz. Nice thing about dual roles I can spread the Cutthroat Journal word around the nation. If I call past your shop, it’s so I can meet face to face with barbers in their own space, performing their special art.

The trip to Portland was to take part in one of the coolest conventions on the globe, The World Beard and Moustache Championships, where we were invited to be a media partner. It was a gathering of over 2000 bearded chaps, and a few bearded ladies. Portland was the right place to hold it, being the USA’s cool capital. It was great to see the convention centre full of men giving time and passion to facial hair, fashion, craft beer and great coffee. I travelled with our Editor, who’s also a barber, - James “Jimbo” Holder. He was a competitor at the event. He made a pretty good 4th place in his heat in the Verde section of the beard comp. It was an amazing experience to hold the Aussie flag high there, they even played Advance Australia fair.

My rant this issue is about working with your spouse. Many barbershops are couples affairs, and people are thrown into the unusual situation of having to work with their husband or wife.

This can get difficult due to the fact that you also live with them 24 hours a day. Often life becomes all about work and the conversation never diverts much outside of business. Building something together is one of the biggest joys in a relationship, so a small business like a barbershop should be one of these great affairs.

As a consultant I often feel like I am a marriage counsellor when I get called in for business advice or an expansion project. Normally I have to hear two different opinions or plans on these consultancy projects, sometimes there is no unity in thinking. It can all be a very black and white approach with no negotiation. Often when you only have to deal with a business partner, and not a spouse, you can come to a solution 6

of a problem amicably, but when it’s a partner it can become very personal. Many small business owners are in this boat and sometimes this is the leading issue toward business failure or worse still, breakups.

But don’t lose hope. There are some solutions to stop becoming a slave to your business life, if you are in one of these situations. Firstly, you need to create a job position for each spouse in the business relationship that you are both comfortable with, and that is in sync with your real skills. Separate roles are vital to your good health as well, as the businesses. Then stick to these positions and try not to cross the line into your spouses space, no demarcation or hovering.

The next step is to make set hours for business and for home life. Don’t talk finances in lifestyle hours, the milkman’s bill does not need to be discussed in bed.

The next tip is my favourite. If a personal issues arises in a business discussion, there needs to be boundaries in place - as in ‘I am asking you the same question I would be asking my employee, try not to take it personally, just please answer the question as If I am also a work colleague.”

Hard to do sometimes but with practice, it can work. Always assume that your partner has the best intent.

The last tip. Bring a third party in to do the finances if you can afford this luxury. Sometimes it is hard to let go of this part of the business, because of the trust factor, but with new payment portals you can still take control of you bank accounts and be safe from fraudulent behavior.

The best businesses I see today are when lifetime partners can work together well in business, because you will back each other up when times gets tough. The other thing is you have trust as a partner and can do things in business that you would not normally do, especially around financial control. It often feels less risky when you make a decision in business if you get the support of a loved one.

Have a great Christmas and New Year break and enjoy your family and friends.

Stay safe Sean Edwards.

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BLEEDING

EDGE Sco op Deluxe pea ch wo od bea rd co mb Perfectly spaced teeth to allow a smooth stroke through the beard. The peach wood offers a static free stroke, as well as many other benefits.

Using a peach wood comb can be really good for the health of your hair.

Each individual comb has unique markings, smooth teeth and even curves. Yes, the use of a Peach Wood Comb daily will reduce the rate of hair falling (while combing) and regular use of the wooden comb will lend strength and health to your scalp, and help you reduce hair fallout.

2o z sco op deluxe ori gi na l bea rd ba lm 2oz Scoop Deluxe Original Beard Balm. Australian Made Beard Balm. A subtle lemon scent with coconut notes. Made from the finest quality ingredients so you know you’ve got the best.

WWW.SCOOPDELUXE.COM.AU

Fud ge COOL MI NT PURI F Y SH AM PO O

WWW.SCOOPDELUXE.COM.AU

For hair that’s got that minty-fresh feeling, look no further than Fudge’s new Cool Mint Shampoo & Conditioner. A detoxifying revival for all hair types, the lightweight, shine boosting formula boasts a prescriptive blend of energising ingredients to treat the scalp and the senses all in one. Menthol and peppermint work to stimulate the hair follicles with an exhilarating tingling sensation, while a blend of potent antioxidants help to nourish the hair from the roots to the ends. To keep hair healthy, Grapefruit Seed Oil and Birch Tree Extract help to prevent oiliness, making the new Cool Mint Shampoo & Conditioner combination a breath of fresh air for your hair.

The Ba rba NYC Bla nco Bea rd oi l For the bearded men who prefers a less is more style. Blanco beard oil is thoughtfully made from the best organic ingredients on the market. It will keep your beard looking great without a scent. No more split hairs and itchiness. This oil will moisturize, soften and add a subtle shine to your beard. While using this oil, your beard will look healthier and actually be healthier too. We have carefully researched and tested this product with fellow bearded men to make sure we give you the best beard oil possible!

WWW.FUDGE.COM

WWW.THEBARBANYC.COM

C lean Cut Look We t Shine Mens Hai rSpr ay Gel

REUZEL GREASE M EDIUM HOL D Reuzel Grease is a versatile wax and oil based product that allows you to control its strength and degree of shine. Reuzel Grease is strongest when applied to dry hair. For the heaviest (90 weight) hold apply to blow dried hair, for a medium (60 weight) hold apply to towel dried hair.

24 hour hold. No mess, light hold. For a polished look in a no-mess, spray format.

WWW.LYNXAU.COM.AU

WWW.REUZELPOMADE.COM

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Take a blend of up to 17 premium natural oils sourced from around the globe, add several months of love and throw away the bull shit. Premium beard care products, made by a man with a beard. The Woodpecker is a subtle citrus and sandalwood blend, a real lady-killer featuring the ravens tobacco hit, with white pepper and patchouli punching through. It makes for a really sophisticated blend. Combine with the revolutionary Beard Buff to scrub each whisker into a state of nirvana and you have the ultimate beard care duo right there, BAM.

Kin g Br own Pom ade Tin Unique in design, this vintage look leather holster is the ultimate accessory to the King Brown Pomade tin. Hand tooled and made from premium cow hide, this piece features laser etched insignia, antique brass hardware and pocket comb holder come belt loop on the rear.

BLEEDING

Wei rdy Bea rdy B ea rd O i l a nd Bea rd Buff

EDGE

WWW.WEIRDYBEARDY.COM.AU

WWW.KINGBROWNPOMADE.COM

Kin g of Wo od Be ar d Oil - 50m l Scented in a delicious manly combination of wood and spice ingredients. King of Wood is an exceptional beard oil for conditioning your beard and skin to give it a lustrous shine. Especially designed for those that have beard itch from dry skin. This wonderful oil comes in a generous 50 ml bottle. RRP $32

Structure Ani mate Pump up your style with new STRUCTURE ANIMATE Bodifying Styling Crème, the latest must-have product from the red hot salon range synonymous with spontaneous styling and staying power. Perfect for bringing limp, boring hair to life, STRUCTURE ANIMATE boasts multiple benefits, enlivening locks in four ways that really count: boosting body and volume; adding moisture and shine; strengthening hair by making it 2.78x more resistant to breakage*; and adding definition and separation. This go-to product for great looking hair also offers soft, pliable hold and humidity resistance and protects against thermal damage up to 450°F / 232°C, making it a valuable addition to any hair care regime. The superior formula does not flake or leave behind residue – what’s not to love?

WWW.MILKMANAUSTRALIA.COM

King of Wood 2 in 1 b eard sham poo & conditioner - 200m l Australia’s original and number 1 beard cleanser. Made from a castile soap base and contains top shelf ingredients including argan oil, aloe vera, and nutrient rich extracts from organic green tea and hops. It also has an easy to use foam action nozzle.

RRP from $24 WWW.MILKMANAUSTRALIA.COM

WWW.STRUCTURE.CO.UK

Si lver Ti p Ba dger Brush 21mm knot, genuine badger with black embossed case, super soft & the highest grade brush available.

SRP $129 NZD WWW.BARBERSHOP.CO.NZ

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BLEEDING

Natur a l L o ok M ens H a i r Crea m Sof t & To ucha ble Co ntrol

EDGE

Fluff taming with added texture for a touchable, natural look Make peace with your hair!

WWW.LYNXAU.COM.AU

Voodoo Pr in ce Be ar d Oil Come hither, beard hero: A real man knows mastering his muff makes him a front-runner in the game of life. But he also knows being in touch with his softer side means a better beard the ladies just can’t keep their fingers from. The Bush Master plays hard on your brush, whittling away at rough and tough whiskers with passionfruit and argan oils. The result is a whisper-soft scruff, laced with adventurous hints of grapefruit, tobacco flower, saffron and cedar.

Cord Wr a ps Introducing cord wraps for your clippers, no more tangled cords driving you crazy in the barber shop. Choose from a range of colours

WWW.GIBSGROOMING.COM WWW.BARBERCO.COM.AU

NAK Tou gh .n Up Wa hl Proli thi um Beret stea lth

A texture building putty for rough and unrefined looks with no shine. Sulphate free, paraben free, raw texture. Designed for all hair types.

Hold Factor: 8/10 WWW.NAKHAIR.COM.AU

B arb icide wipes Time is money and Barbicide Disinfecting Wipes maximize both! These economical, easy to use disinfecting wipes are EPA registered hospital grade and have a 2 minute contact time assuring your salon, spa or barbershop meet sanitation and disinfection guidelines in just a few short minutes!

PROFESSIONAL: Highly efficient and durable Lithium-Ion battery without memory effect.

75 minutes run time and 60 minutes charging time.

DESIGN: Appealing black stealth design.

ERGONOMIC: Super slim, super quiet and light in weight.

EXACT: Quick-detach black chrome-plated blade set. Ideal for close trimming and outlining.

COMPACT: Compact charge stand ideal for any workstation.

WWW.WAHL.COM.AU

WWW.BARBICIDE.COM

CL IPPER SK INS Customise your clippers with these awesome clipper skins from Barberco. Choose your style and give your clipper some mojo.

WWW.BARBERCO.COM.AU

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Au s t r a l i a’ s F i r s t

R e u z e l Ambassadors

UNCLE JOE’S

Barbers around Australia have been quietly rallying to become ambassadors of the latest product to take the barbering world by storm; Reuzel.

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ith a cult like following, the founders of Reuzel – The Schorem Barbers of Rotterdam - have established themselves as a household name amongst the barbering community.

Well known for their men-only barbershop, Haarsnijder en Barbier, Scumbag barbers Leen and Bertus are preserving the vanishing craft of barbering. In their mission to preserve the traditional barbering art form, the duo is passing on their knowledge and passion through the wonderful world of social media and their new

BARBER BROS & CO With Alen and Denis having an impressive 20 years of barbering experience between them, it’s no wonder they reaped such success with their Barber Bros & Co venture. Opening its doors in December 2013, Baber Bros & Co is carefully based on the Schorem ethos, providing patrons with an experience that boasts a warm, friendly feeling, oozing in old-school charm. With some 400 clients coming through the doors each week, Barber Bros & Co goes to every length to ensure a masculine atmosphere with attention to every tiny detail of the barbering experience.

From barber chairs dating back to 1907, a

barbering academy in the heart of Rotterdam.

With the simple question “are you Australia’s biggest scumbag?” put to Australian barbers, Haircare Australia have been overwhelmed with the number of barbers entering the competition.

Video entries showcased the barbers’ passion for conserving this craft, each with a unique spin and fresh perspective. After lengthy consideration, Denis and Alen from Barber Bros & Co on the Gold Coast and Sean Palmer of Uncle Joe’s in Perth were to be donned the worthy ambassadors of Reuzel Australia and the tickets were booked to attend the Schorem Academy in Rotterdam.

100-year-old cash register to the vintage timber and exposed brick, authenticity exudes.

With such an innate respect for barbering, inspired by the greats, Alen and Denis take the time to educate their patrons about the bygone era of traditional barbering. But, most importantly provide patrons with what they describe as the most ruthless, rag haircuts and hot towel shaves. Of the sound opinion that barbering is not about fashion, but instead about style and tradition, they base their careers on respecting the barbering heritage and the products like Reuzel that so perfectly compliment it.

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Starting his barbering career in 2007, Sean Palmer has spent the best part of it working alongside some of the world’s most experienced barbers, especially during his time in the UK. Joining the Uncle Joe’s team not long after its opening in 2013, Sean has seen the shop develop into a barbering experience worthy of the curiosity and popularity it now receives. Not just your average barbershop, Uncle Joe’s offers it’s grooming facilities to punters from all walks of life; mixed with the fresh vibes from the men’s clothing store and café attached. In keeping with barbershop tradition, Uncle Joe’s features recycled materials that perfectly compliment the 100-year-old chairs and traditional barbering tools and products on display.

Sean’s passion is kept alive by the barbering industry’s ability to constantly challenge and open the mind. He recognises that there is always room to learn and new styles and techniques are always needed, provide fresh cuts and shaves that make his clients feel like a boss is his ultimate mission. Having trained in a traditional barbershop dating back to the 1930’s, Sean has a keen eye for the finesse of men’s grooming, hoping to bring the old-school techniques to the surface for today’s barbershop dwellers.

With such dedication to the barbering profession and respect for Schorem and the Reuzel brand, there really are no better barbers for the job. Each recognises the Reuzel ethos and base their careers on preserving the very tradition that Reuzel is trying to preserve. The trio will start their official duties as Ambassadors next year, kicking things off with a once in a life time trip to Rotterdam to train with the Scumbags themselves.

Schorem Barbering courses hosted by these new ambassadors will be rolled out across the country in 2015. Visit haircareaust.com for more information.

Haircare

{ ADVERTORIAL}

B o y s

C l u b

B a r b e r s h o p

RECLINING IN A BARBER CHAIR ON HOLIDAYS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, AMONGST A ROWDY BUNCH OF AMERICAN SWORDSMEN TALKING TRASH, WATCHING SPORT, AND LISTENING TO HIP-HOP, JAMES GRAHAM LAMENTED THE ABSENCE OF SUCH AN ENVIRONMENT BACK HOME IN AUSTRALIA. RETURNING FROM THE TRIP ON A MISSION TO BRING SOME NEW FLAVOUR TO THE BARBERING GAME, BOYS CLUB BARBERSHOP OPENED ITS FLAGSHIP STORE DOORS IN 2012, IN THE HEART OF ADELAIDE’S CBD, THE ICONIC ‘ADELAIDE ARCADE’. ounded on the timeless principles of the traditional, no-nonsense barbershops of old, BCB has created a vibe of its own, meshing classic cuts and tight shaves with a love of American sports, engaging conversation, and a ‘no bad days’ attitude. Fast forward two years to 2014 and the BCB brand is thriving, with their second store - Sussex Street freshly opened in Glenelg’s seaside hub.

The vision of Boys Club is to ultimately alter the way men think about their regular trim, transforming a reluctant chore into a highly entertaining, enjoyable experience, and the highlight of their month. Supplementing the cuts and shaves with the upper echelons of men’s grooming products, BCB has the slick spectrum tastefully under control.

Utilising the ongoing love, support, and lavish array of products on offer from David

F

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Morton at Peregrine Blue/ Shaving Essentials, BCB - in particular Sussex St. - has become an Adelaide staple for all the finer things in men’s grooming. Stocking a delicious range of pomades from Layrite and Baxter of California, John Allan’s luxury shampoos and conditioners, Muhle brushes, Truefitt & Hill’s opulent shaving equipment/ colognes, and Captain Fawcett’s for everything beard related. Once a modest contributor to the store’s activity, the continued growth of a flourishing retail selection, featuring a heavy supply from Peregrine Blue and Shaving Essentials, has added a tasty additional dimension to the business.

For all Adelaide residents, swing by and have a perusal in either the City or Sussex St. stores to see what all the fuss is about, or keep up to date with all things BCB online at www.boysclubbarbershop.com

{ ADVERTORIAL}

barber david morton story B l e n d s

A N D

B R O T H E R S

BLENDS AND BROTHERS IS THE RESULT OF THE DREAM OF TWO YOUNG BROTHERS, BRENDEN AND SHAUN. THEY WANTED TO CREATE A BARBERSHOP IN THE SYDNEY AREA THAT WAS DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER. A PLACE WHERE A MAN CAN GO FOR NOT JUST A GREAT HAIRCUT, BUT CAN ADDRESS ALL HIS GROOMING NEEDS. A PLACE LIKE NO OTHER, WHERE HE COULD TAKE HIS WIFE, PARTNER OR HIS MATES. A PLACE WHERE A BLOKE DOES NOT JUST HAVE TO SIT AND WAIT ON A BENCH FOR HAIR TO BE CUT WHILE WATCHING THE BARBERS CUT CUSTOMERS HAIR… BUT A WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL. he idea was born to combine a top class café, serving not just coffee but a light meal, a snack, or a delicious home made cake or sweet.

After two years in development and finding just the right spot, Blends and Brothers opened its doors in August this year in Rouse Hill Shopping Centre. The response from the customers was outstanding. On a weekend, the café often has every seat taken, with customers enjoying great meals and coffee.

Blokes come with their families and kids to eat and also get their hair cut. Often every barber chair is booked... but waiting is never a problem with the café on site.

‘We offer our customers a classic barbershop atmosphere, where they can bring the whole family’ says Brenden. ‘Being brothers we work great together, and being a barber, I run the barbershop while my brother Shaun runs the cafe. It’s a family affair, often with mum and dad there helping out. It creates a family atmosphere that our customers seem to really like.’

T

For all our men’s grooming needs, we source, primarily from one supplier, David Morton at Peregrine Blue/ Shaving Essentials.

Why? Because we only want to sell the best products and David offers those. We don’t have to shop around from supplier to supplier as he has it all. He has been with us from the beginning, long before we had the shop open, and his support has been great. He offers what we consider fantastic products, and is very selective in the barber brands he sells. We sell Layrite, Baxter of California, John Allan’s Shampoos and Conditioners, Captain Fawcett’s Beard Oil and Moustache Waxes, Muhle Double Edge Razors and quality Badger brushes.

If you haven’t done so already while you’re in Sydney, try an experience that will leave you wanting more - drop in to Blends & Brothers at Rouse Hill Town Centre or visit our instagram page: @blends_and_brothers or our facebook page: www.facebook.com/ blendsandbrothers to see what all the fuss is about.

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insticlips

EACH ISSUE WE'RE GONNA PUT A HEAP OF YOUR INSTAGRAM PICS ON OUR INSTICLIPS PAGE. GET ON BOARD AND START TAGGING US @THECUTTHROATJOURNAL - YOU COULD SEE YOURS HERE SOON!

FOLLOW US ON INSTI TO KEEP UP TO DATE AND BE IN THE DRAW FOR HEAPS OF PRIZES AND GIVEAWAYS

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beards BEERS DUST AND horses

THE ICONIC

Birdsville races very year since 1882, on the first Saturday in September, people converge on this tiny outback town from all over Australia, to attend the race that stops the outback. The iconic Birdsville Races.

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located just over 1500km west of Brisbane, lays a small town, renowned for its pub and with

The very first race in 1882 was set up for hack and stock horses, with a few of the locals watching as spectators. Today the race has grown into a full racing carnival held over 2 days. It includes 13 races and prize money well in excess of over $170,000, with the Birdsville Cup being a much sought after trophy throughout the world. The track itself is located just outside the tiny town, right beside the sand dunes of the Simpson Desert. It is one of only four tracks in Queensland to run anti-Clockwise. The horses that run out there are as tough as their owners and the jockey’s….. well you cant really call them jockeys. They are twice the size of a so called jockey. I’d call them medium sized, hard as nails, true Aussie bushman, who can ride the S#%t out of a horse. It’s a spectacle to see the horses round the bend with this incredible dust cloud following them across the finish line.

a p o p u la t i o n o f j u s t 1 2 0 c a l l e d Birdsville.

The people who attend this famous horse race in the middle of nowhere are what truly make this event. I was out there this year for the second 18

THEN BEGINS THE NIGHTTIME SHENANIGANS. AS SOON AS THE LAST HORSE CROSSES THE LINE, THE PILGRIMAGE TO THE BIRDSVILLE PUB BEGINS. THE PUB IS IN THE CENTRE OF THE TOWN, LOCATED DIRECTLY OPPOSITE THE AIRSTRIP.

time, and the characters you meet from all walks of Aussie life are truly incredible. Everything from your 18yr old kid, on his first big outback adventure with his mates, to backpackers, to the grey nomad, quirky outback characters with giant mo’s and beards (who have the most incredible tales you’ve ever heard), just to name a few!

These amazing people, combined with beer and scorching 40 degree heat make it a cracker of a day.

Then begins the nighttime shenanigans. As soon as the last horse crosses the line, the pilgrimage to the Birdsville pub begins. The Pub is in the center of the town, located directly opposite the airstrip. It’s not unusual to watch a plane land and the pilot walk across the road for a beer.

XXXX Bitter and Gold are the drink of choice, with a nice splash of Bundy rum in the mix, only

consumed from tinnies. Within half an hour of arriving at the pub after the races, the crowd is flowing out under the awning of the Birdsville Hotel, onto the street. The unspoken rule is to drop your can in the gutter out the front of the hotel, where within no time there’s a metre wide river of cans. So much so, that in the morning’s cleanup each day, there is a dedicated person to poke a stick through the mountain of cans to make sure nobody has passed out underneath them before the garbage truck comes through.

tent. I put my hand up this year for a fight, and it truly was an amazing experience. After a day on the booze and no mouth guard, you step out onto a bit of rolled out canvas that is having the red dirt swept off it and while staring down your opponent. The crowd is sitting on planks of wood held up by bessa blocks each end, chanting and heckling. The fight is reffed by Fred himself who claims to be the fairest in the land! I went all 3 rounds and ended up with a draw and an amazing experience!

Another infamous attraction at the races is Fred Brophy’s boxing tent. The last boxing tent in the world where you put your hand up to punch on with a pro in the ring. The banging of the drum and the introduction of the fighter in Fred’s crew is a show in itself, with some of the hardest boxers in the country being discovered in this

If you have never experienced the outback and want a reason to do so, the Birsdsville races is a must on your bucket list. A unique Australiana experience that you will never forget!

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Luke Swenson CEO & Founder The Bearded Chap

MEET

LUKE

SHOP 2 401 GRANGE RD, FINDON SA 5023 (08) 8355 1471

IL BARBIERE

How long have you been in business?

For 2 years. I started IL BARBIERE in August 2012. I’ve been cutting hair for nearly 16 years. People kept telling me to have my own place for years, but it was my self-belief that I had to conquer first before I started IL BARBIERE. What is your point of difference in the market?

I think my point of difference is the style of shop I have. It’s based on something that you would have gone to in the 20s or 30s. It has a traditional look and feel with black walls and polished terrazzo floors. I’m also specializing in wedding packages for the groom/ groomsmen and do traditional hot towel shaves. There are not many guys out there that have learnt the old school traditional cutthroat shave.

Why barbering?

My best friend Luca asked me to come and try barbering at his dads shop after I finished school in 97 and I haven’t looked back since.

It’s given me a lot in life and I owe a lot of

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thanks to the people who got me started.

It’s a case of not you choosing the job, but the job choosing you. Best decision I made in life. So far!

What is it that makes customers keep coming back?

I think it comes down good old-fashioned service. I learnt from the start that a simple “Hello Sir” can go a long way. A smile doesn’t cost anything either and I think people appreciate that too. The shop has it’s own unique style, much different to the barber shops that are around.

How many barbers do you have?

At the moment it’s just me, but business has grown beyond one cutter.

What is the most popular haircut you do?

The Zero fade, with shaved in hard part and Quiff or Slicked to the side Your business motto Never forget where you came from and be grateful for what you have. People come to your business because you are who you are and they like the job you do.

MEET

BRAD

SHOP 6, CARINE GLADES SHOPPING CENTRE, CARINE, WA 6020 (08) 9448 9477

brad's barber shop

How long have you been in business?

Been a hairdresser for 23 years and have owned this salon for 11 years.

What is your point of difference in the market?

Our point of difference is personalized, friendly service. Brad knows everyone by name, remembers things about every customer and often cuts the hair of many generations in a family. Our clients drive up to an hour to have him cut their hair and there are many celebrity clients that he gladly stays after hours or opens early for. Brad is a traditional barber that is full of jokes, lots of friendly banter and always has sport playing on the plasma. Brads clients love him.

Last month he was gifted a set of antique cutthroats in a clients will. The salon is quite stylish but blokey, tailored towards the executive male who wants to also relax in his board shorts on the weekend, read the paper and drink a good coffee while waiting for a hair cut.

Why barbering?

I started an apprentice straight out of school, it wasn’t really my occupation of choice at the time but now I couldn’t think of doing anything else.

What is it that makes customers keep coming back?

Clients love the friendly banter, personalised service, hot towel experience, cutthroat shave on the neck, ears, nose and eyebrow trim etc - all part of the experience.

How many barbers do you have?

Four What is the most popular haircut you do?

Executive short back and sides and a huge amount of fades and beard trims at the moment.

Your business motto At Brads barber shop we believe clients are not a number, they are valued, respected and are made to feel that we will give them our 100% care and attention every single time they visit us.

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Marketing successfully to the modern male is all about meaningful relationships

LAWS

OF

attraction

I F Y O U ’ R E R U N N I N G A R E A S O N A B LY S U C C E S S F U L B A R B E R S H O P, Y O U P R O B A B LY H A V E A P R E T T Y S T R O N G I N K L I N G T H A T T H E R E I S M O R E T O M A R K E T I N G T O T O D AY ’ S M E N T H A N S I M P LY A P P E A L I N G T O T H E I R M A C H O S I D E . .

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hen it comes to getting blokes through the door, you’ll need to do more than simply running a few ads featuring a hot chick and waiting for new clients to roll on in. This approach might have worked in the 50s, but that style of marketing just doesn’t fly with today’s sophisticated male consumers.

It’s a simple equation: an emotional investment equals strong rapport, which ultimately equals more cashflow for your business. Why does this formula work?

Because a client who feels understood and appreciated is more likely to fork out cash, visit more frequently, buy more product, and make your business more profitable.

Men these days respond to a very different approach: one that all comes down to relationships. Believe it or not, to successfully market your business to men, you need to find a way to pull on their emotional heart strings and make them believe in your brand.

The key to achieving this is to dig deep and figure out how your clients want to feel about themselves. Do they want to feel attractive? Professional? On-trend?

Ask them about themselves, listen to everything they have to tell you, and make sure you record everything in your computer system so you can refresh your memory next time they visit.

This is the positive flip-side of today’s intensely digitally-driven consumer culture: consumers are craving meaningful, human interactions. If there is one thing an instant, computerised transaction can’t provide, it’s a sense of community. Which means it’s up to you as a small business to bridge this gap and make your clients feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

With the right strategies and tools, cutting through the clutter to attract new clients is easy.

Getting to know you…

Marketing to men should be approached just like any other business-related problem – forget about your own desires and agendas and figure out what your clients really want. You have to get to the bottom of their loves and hates, desires and fears.

What’s the deal?

You have probably heard the often-cited cliché that blokes are less likely to shop around for a bargain, compared with women. It’s true, a man’s approach can be more direct, but that’s not to say you shouldn’t try to entice them with special offers.

The trick is to offer each individual client a deal that speaks to them so strongly, they will be unable to resist. You’d never send a bloke a discount for a cut, colour and blow-dry, so why would you offer a client with no facial hair a special promo for a beard trim?

Sounds obvious, but it’s a common – and costly – mistake.

Luckily, creating personalised promotions is easy using 22

Set & Forget Marketing from Shortcuts. At the click of a button you can choose which clients to target, divide up your database, and send specific deals to specific clients based on what you know makes them tick.

In with the in-crowd Word of mouth can make or break a business – especially in the age of digital media, when all it takes is a few negative Facebook posts to critically damage your reputation. Your branding plays a big part in portraying who you are as a business, but the only way to ensure you have an excellent reputation is to actively manage it.

The Spotlight feature from Shortcuts is a powerful tool that will help you keep track of exactly what your clients are saying about you. You can read their reviews, and respond to any negative comments before they are published.

Another great way to generate positive buzz is to get your clients to do the talking. Offering a special incentive to clients who help spread the word for you is a great way to entice new business through the door.

For example, you could offer your existing clients 50% off their next cut, every time they refer one of their mates. It’s a great way to share the love, and ensure you share the rewards with your most loyal customers.

To find out more about how to software and marketing tools can be used to grow your business visit www.shortcuts.com.au/barber

ROLL n DICE Barbershop

MEET

BRETT

7 LIVINGSTON MARKETPLACE SHOPPING CENTRE RD CANNING VALE, WA, 6155 (08) 9455 2999

How Long Have you been in Business?

Roll n Dice Barbershop has been going for almost 12 months. Prior to this we had 3 other shops. One was a 75 year old barber shop, another we ran for 12 years. We also set up a small shop but decided to sell after 3 years. This helped us push forward with all the ideas spinning around for Roll n Dice.

What is your point of difference in the market?

Roll n Dice is such a unique and eye catching shop. We started with our love of all things retro and combined it with traditional barbering. It has a rockabilly edge. The kids cutting area has become ver popular. We receive praise from parents on a daily basis which definitely gives us a massive boost.

Why Barbering?

Barbering isn’t a job for us, it’s a way of life. I’ve always liked creating things and that’s what barbers do. This is what

I am and what I will always do.

What makes customers keep coming back?

My clients are my friends. I give them what they want and a little more. You can really have a laugh with people, they don’t mind copping a little flack just as long as you don’t mind getting it back!!

How many Barbers do you have?

Our shop has 14 staff. Our staff are like family What is the most popular haircut you do?

Traditional 30’s inspired short back and sides usually accompanied with either the comb over or slick back or quiff, and most have a razor fade around the edges.

Your business motto /mission?

Be yourself, do great work and your clients will find you. Once they have, look after them. Be a barber they count on and have fun.

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WHY

Ga R O W with D r B e n D e C ampo , Mil k man Aus tr al ia

We are always keen to gather interesting factoids about facial hair from our followers. With beards having a huge resurgence, and Movember now a household name, we wondered whether its almost time for moustaches to move from 80s relic to a hero of the twenty tens.

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e figured that in order for moustaches to grow in popularity they would first need to be associated with benefits that would make men want to have them. This is why we expect that nose and ear hair will never become fashionable. There is nothing good about it.

To get the low down on perceptions, we ran a Facebook competition for the top reasons to grow a moustache. The response was fantastic with thousands of people viewing, liking and contributing.

Once the R-rated comments were removed, we compiled a list of the most popular reasons for anyone needing encouragement to get bristles on their upper lip. Here they are: • To twist the edges as you tie a damsel in distress to the train tracks.

• Nature says you can.

• So you can eat your food twice.

• If you are a red head, your moustache & beard will

save you 50% in sunscreen.

• The added manliness keeps bears away.

• So you can challenge people to duals.....or rob trains.....or just to generally be rad.

• So you no longer look like a baby.

• If there are peas in my soup, they don’t get past the mo. I hate peas.

• To be mistaken as a 70’s porn star.

• Turns wine into fine wine with its filtration capabilities.

• Because a moustache isn’t just a moustache - it’s awesomeness escaping from your face.

• To look dignified, classy, accomplished and sleazy all at the same time.

• To gain super powers.

• To look like a bad ass playing poker.

Apart from acting as a wine and soup filter, which is no doubt critically important, it seems the purported benefits of moustaches were almost unanimously

24

dubious. Surely one of the best things about moustaches was missed in the responses. We think one of the biggest benefits is that moustaches can be a powerful signature for those that wear them.

Could you imagine celebrities like Tom Selleck, Albert Einstein, Merv Hughes and Salvador Dali without a mo? Their moustaches became a huge part of their character and it helped to make them memorable.

Unfortunately, the competition didn’t help us to shed any light on whether moustaches are about to have a renaissance but it did suggest there’s no shortage of cheeky moustache innuendo out there. Clearly, regardless of where fashion trends are going to take us in the years ahead, “lip rugs” will always have their place either as the butt of jokes or as something eminently cool, depending on who you ask. Not many body parts have that sort of distinction and that’s why we love them. Long live the mo.

Photo credit: Luis Duarte & Unique Barbershop ANTIGA BARBEARIA DE BAIRRO GROOMING RANGE. OLD-SCHOOL. REINVENTED. Antiga Barbearia de Bairro began from childhood memories of living above a barber shop in Moscavide, a small village not far from bustling Lisbon, Portugal. It saw the comings and goings of well dressed men engaged in conversations of life while getting their cutthroat shaves.

Inspired by this, Luis Pereira created the heritage shaving range, Antiga Barbearia de Bairro, which literally means “old barbershop of the neighbourhood”.

In collaboration with artisans who use centuries-old traditions of crafting the finest products by hand, Antiga Barbearia de Bairro has redesigned and elevated barber shop products to provide a new standard

in shaving.

Each product is formulated to the highest quality and with the pursuit of handsome and refinement top of mind.

Antiga Barbearia de Bairro. OldSchool. Reinvented.

Antiga Barbearia de Bairro’s best sellers are the Cutthroat Shavette, crafted by hand from Brazilian Cherry Wood and Stainless Steel, the solid Oak Handle badger hair Shaving Brush and the Shaving Soap, which gives a full 6 months of nick-free, smooth shaving.

For more information on our products contact us at: www.barbearia.com.au sales@barbearia.com.au 0425 33 6465

25

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Barbers Defence

Rob O a k e s h o t t wa s th e F e d e r a l M P fo r th e e l e c t o ra t e o f Ly n e i n N SW f rom 2008 -2 0 1 3 . T h is is a s h o r t s to r y a b o u t h i s r e spect f o r hi s lo ca l b a rb er.

hen in the middle of the political game for three years, I got attacked pretty hard. Some of it bought on myself, and some of it orchestrated to whip up dissent against me, and everything I stood for. It was a rough and tumble time.

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my hair. He had convinced himself I was dyeing my hair red, and spent nearly two weeks doing all he could to convince his listeners of the same. What he was out to prove still remains in doubt, even though, for the record, all the colour on my melon is mine (including the grey!).

Few, even the closest of friends, were willing to jump into the fire, to defend some of the outrageous slander and abuse, or to even correct the record. Many a story was reported back to me of good friends choosing to sit quietly in board meetings while some know it all ranted on about what a know it all I was. It was a difficult time for many.

But in the heat of this silly follicle battle of the airwaves, from the left corner, jumps in my barber;

But one who did step in and fight for me was my barber. He is someone I have known a long time, ever since he set up a single chair in a four by four metre box that he had made in a surf shop corner to help the owner pay the rent, and to minimise his. I couldn’t possibly walk past such a set up each day without giving him the occasional charity of $15 for a ten minute trim.

Now, to his credit, he’s a big time Charlie – running four chairs from his own premises. He can afford to laugh about his bizarre phonecall to radiohead, Ray Hadley.

Hadley; ‘And on the line now we have Rob Oakeshott’s barber, well, this will be interesting, what have you got to say about ‘red hair dyeinggate’. He’s definitely dyed his hair hasn’t he – his ego is now officially out of control?

The Barber; ‘Ray, I know Rob Oakeshott, and I know his hair. I cut it. I can give you a scoop – he doesn’t dye it here. You are wrong’ The great lordship presenter of truthful profanity never likes getting told he’s wrong!

Hadley; ‘Wrong am I? He probably put you up to this did he? You are probably a mate of his are you? You probably have roman orgies at his house with him don’t you…’

And on and on he went attacking the barber, who was simply trying to shed some light on the truth and to stand up for a client and a mate.

Now Ray Hadley had smoke coming out his nose in his want to end my political career. He didn’t like that I didn’t play his game – you know the one, where I’m supposed to bow at the altar of talkback religion, like most MP’s. Frankly, I just thought he was King Knob of King Knob radio, and I chose not to feed him. He bagged me relentlessly for three years because of it.

Roman orgies? Where did that come from? For his sins of trying to defend that small little detail called the truth, my barber was accused of having roman orgies at the local federal MP’s house.

It got to a point where he would spit venom about anything I touched, and he had somehow got onto

Now, back to my orgy….pass the grapes will you, Ceasar….

The barber still shakes his head and laughs about it. A tough gig being the town barber. But I still appreciated him trying. And he still cuts my hair.

Who knows, he might even dye it for me one day.

27

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Ab e l O l mo s a n d J ul i a n Ino a , c o - fo u nd e r s o f T he B a rb a , co uld ha v e set t l e d f o r o n e o f th e m a ny e x i s ti ng be a r d o il b ra n ds. B ut set t li n g is n ’ t t he i r s t y l e . T h e y w a nte d s o m et hi n g b et t er.

I

he men, who both hail from the Dominican on July 4th and hasn’t slowed down yet.

Republic and now live in the Bronx, New Since July, Olmos and Inoa introduced a new York, had all the pieces they needed to scent, Santo, and a line of mustache waxes. build a finely tuned brand that spoke to Their third scent blend uses the same organic them. For the past five years, Olmos has been base as its predecessors, but with a heavenly directing, shooting and conceptualizing photo mixture of cedarwood, vanilla and peppermint. shoots and music videos for local artists and Recently the company completed deals with musicians. And Inoa has spent the past couple several barbers to have The Barba products of years honing his attention to detail and used and sold in their shops. creativity as an architect.

Although he loves what’s in each bottle of The So as their beards grew, so too did the brand.

Barba beard oil he buys, Jose Luis Velasco II, ‘I had tried to grow my beard out before, but a Philadelphia-based product development my girlfriend complained that it always felt specialist at Anthropologie, said he was initially unkempt and scratchy. struck with the packaging.

I knew I needed a beard Each bottle comes wrapped in THE BRONX FOUNDERS OF oil to keep it moisturized a drawstring linen pouch that’s THE BARBA STARTED BY this time, but I wasn’t been hand stamped with the CONSULTING WITH LOCAL feeling any of the company logo.

BARBERS AROUND NEW companies already on “It caught my eye instantly,” he the market,’ Olmos said.

YORK CITY, ASKING THEM said. “I wanted to make Velasco cares for his barba by HOW THEY HANDLED THEIR something that I would shampooing and conditioning, BEARDED CLIENTS. want use. I knew it would letting it air dry and massaging resonate with other a few drops of The Barba Blanco men.’ oil into it before smoothing it with a stiff boar The Bronx founders of The Barba started by bristle brush. consulting with local barbers around New Regardless of their routine, Inoa said he wants York City, asking them how they handled their their customers to feel like there can be an air bearded clients. Above all, they put an emphasis of sophistication to growing and maintaining on using organic ingredients. their beard.

After a few months of testing, they brought “There’s plenty of people who think growing samples into those same barber shops. Their a beard sends the message to the world that flagship oils Blanco, unscented, and Terra, a you’re too lazy to shave,” Inoa said. “Obviously spicy blend of grapefruit and ginger essential that’s not true. All of our customers say oils spiked with tea tree for a refreshing tingle, everyone around them notices the change in got rave reviews. their beard immediately. The feedback has been The Barba opened its online store for business amazing and that makes us work even harder.”

29

PORTLAND

RAZOR CO.

Whilst visiting Portland For The World Beard and Moustache Championships we had some spare time to visit a few places on our radar. We had been communicating on social media with the Portland Razor Company, so we took the opportunity to go and see the art and skill of the cutthroat razor being hand made.

W SCOTT FELL IN LOVE WITH THE CONCEPT OF THE CUTTHROAT RAZOR AND THE PROCESS OF CREATING THIS ART PIECE FROM A BLOCK OF HARDENED STEEL. WHAT WAS AMAZING WAS THAT THE BLADE IS MADE BASICALLY FROM A BLOCK OF STEEL, THAT IS GROUND DOWN TO THE FINISHED ONE-PIECE BLADE.

e pulled up in a semi industrial residential area of Portland on the other side of the river from the CBD. The Portland Razor Company was located in a shared arts council workshop, which was the home of a number of artisan businesses. The ‘ADX’, basically a space for all kind of makers, was very cool with lots of creative people floating around between the wood working and design shops. They all housed amazing creations. There was lots of noise and sparks flying in this productive space, which added to the cool vibe of creativity.

We met with Scott, the owner and his girlfriend Alex, who both had moved up from Los Angeles a year earlier. Scott had given up his engineering career to follow his passion for small business and to get back to basics using his hands to create. Alex gave up a busy career in the television production industry to support Scott in the business. They both chose Portland because of the support the city gave to craftsmen who were prepared to bring back forgotten trades, like building the intricate straight edge razor.

Scott fell in love with the concept of the cutthroat razor and the process of creating this art piece from a block of hardened steel. What was amazing was that the blade is made basically from a block of steel, that is ground down to the finished one-piece blade. We thought it would be forged and computer machined, then just sharpened. The whole process was all hand W R I T T E N

30

B Y :

grinding and honing that took up to forty man hours per blade. Scott also made the wood sheath, or scales, that acted as the handle of the razor, from rare American hardened timbers. The other product they manufactured was the leather razor strop that goes hand in hand for blade alignment of the cutthroat razor. Alex does most of the leather work for these.

Scott passionately answered many of our questions about the process and took us around the workshop, showing up the special tools he designed to do the job more efficiently. You really appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into a single unit, and the cost of this precision tool was way under the physical time cost that goes into every razor. Scott is competing against cheap machine manufactured razors, and it’s not until you see the complex process of manufacturing by hand that you really appreciate paying a bit more for one of these high quality tools.

Scott has been inundated with orders and is still trying to catch up, which is quite hard for a one man band. He has not had the physical time to train an apprentice at this stage but is looking to do so in the future. Scott has a new ‘razor maker helper’, Hunter Lea, a former hobbyist knife maker, who is helping him keep up with the mountain of orders. Scott is a real advocate for hand made in America and with the combination of Portland’s creativity reputation, it’s a match made in heaven.

S E A N

E D W A R D S

structurehair.co.uk 31

1300 764 437

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32

Review { WITH ROB MARLOWE}

RAZOR PIT

THANK YOU RAZORPIT FOR SAVING MAN F R O M A G E I N G P R E M A T U R E LY

it is tried and it is tested my friends.

I truly believe the new fashion This fantastic piece of kit will allow statement for long beards is not about for men to have them to have their looking good or edgy or fashionable handsome features back (unless but man has simply had enough of extremely ugly, then the beard maybe paying extortionist amounts of money your best friend). Forget the old man for new razor cartridges. After all, hobo look, because when did fashion RazorPit have the dictate you should answer! No longer look 20 years BUT WHO CAN BLAME do I have to throw older and possibly FASHION FOR TURNING IN THIS DIRECTION WHEN away my child’s homeless? BUT THESE CAPITALIST RAZOR tuition fees on razor who can blame CARTRIDGE-SELLING BRUTES blades. With a simple fashion for turning ARE ROBBING US BLIND? swipe of my used in this direction razor on their eco when these friendly sharpener, I clean my blade capitalist razor cartridge-selling brutes and sharpen the edge, giving me up are robbing us blind? They are so to 150 shaves of a single razor blade. expensive they are now stored at the Not only am I saving money and back of pharmacies with all the other frustration, but with over 600 million controlled substances, I almost feel men throwing blades away weekly, I’m dirty asking for them. Wait though, helping protect the environment. Jolly RAZORPIT have given me the answer I good then chaps. have been awaiting for 38 years, and W A T C H

T H E

V I D E O

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MAtt

B ANTi NG

Yo u k n o w t h e ty p e . Y o u ng . B l o nd e h a i r . A thlet i c . Oli v e s k i n . C rui ser. I mea n , i t ’s a s i f G od wa s like ‘ a n d I s h a l l m a k e th e e fa i r - h a i r e d a nd goo d- n a t ured wi t h b ron z ed s k i n , a n d y e s ha ll b e a s urf e r’.

S o it s e e m s M a tt Ba nt i ng w a s j us t a l w a y s des t i n ed t o b e a n epi c a t hi s c ra f t . How epi c y ou a sk?

We l l , l e t m e r e fe r to m y no te s fo r a s e c on d. Yep, t hi s guy ha s b een epi c s i n c e hi s t wo t i n y f eet fi r s t s te p p e d o nto a bo a rd. A ll hi s da d’s f ri en ds t o t a lly s a y so .

34

Photography courtesy of BOSKO

N

so I’d give him some money. I paddled as fast where it’s at. Imagine being such a legend at 20 ow 20 and these days sponsored by as I could back to shore with him following me. years old. This means Matt will be travelling and Quicksilver, Matt has an impressive Luckily my mate knew someone who lived just competing for about 35 weeks next year, which list of achievements under his belt. behind the beach and I grabbed $50 and handed can sometimes be a drawback of his envious When he was 16 years old, he won the it over. That was all he wanted.’ lifestyle.

World Title in his age category. Oh and there was Matt keeps himself in top form to stay ‘Sometimes you’re rocking up to these something else he did when he was 16…what competitive at the high end of the surfing world. dangerous places on your own in the dark, that was it…trying to think. That’s right. He won a ‘I work out at the gym four to five times a week can be a bit daunting. I’ve had situations where heat against this guy that’s sort of well known in for two hours at a time. It’s all about getting I’ve turned up in the middle of the night and my the surfing world and like, the world. You might fitter and stronger to go up against the best in accommodation wasn’t sorted. It can get a bit have heard of him. His name rhymes with smelly the game.’ hairy,’ said Matt. Not that he’s complaining. ‘You hater. Yep. Kelly Slater. Imagine being 16 and As the saying goes, if you do what being able to say to your mates you love you’ll never work a day ‘you should’ve seen the other day in your life. Matt’s found this to be when I was surfing with Kelly Slater M A T T, O R M A T T Y, T A K E S I T A L L I N H I S S T R I D E A N D S T I L L and’ well who cares really how that C A N ’ T B E L I E V E T H E L I F E H E ’ S L I V I N G . H E C O U N T S S L A T E R true. ‘The best part of what I do is just the surfing itself. I get to surf sentence ends because Matt surfed AS HIS HERO, AS YOU WOULD, AND IS ENJOYING THE RIDE on trips away. I get to surf at home. against THE greatest in the surfing LIKE NOBODY’S BUSINESS. I never lose the love for what I do. world and came out on top. Not There’s nothing better than getting that he boasts about it. Nup. Matt, home to an empty beach and being out surfing in miss your friends and family and sometimes it’s or Matty, takes it all in his stride and still can’t the ocean on your own,’ he says. hard to leave, but it just makes you appreciate believe the life he’s living. He counts Slater as So the future for this young gun looks pretty everything back home even more.’ his hero, as you would, and is enjoying the ride bright, much like his career to date. He looks There’s been a few scary moments along the way like nobody’s business. forward to doing well on the WCT and getting in the surf as well. Once, when Matt was surfing Banting is currently ranked 2nd on the Word into the top 10 and then the top 5. His outlook in Hawaii at 14 years of age, he had a run in with Qualifying Series, or WQS circuit, which is sort on life is simple. He just wants to be happy and ‘an older massive guy’. Matt was minding his own of like the minor league of pro surfing (we doing well in life and in surfing. business when this guy started screaming that totally didn’t look that up), and will next year Uncomplicated. Content. How refreshing.

Banting had cut in on him on a wave. ‘He was a be competing in the World Championship Tour, We’ll be watching and cheering you on Matty. junkie and was basically trying to intimidate me WCT, the big league of the surfing world. It’s I N T E R V I E W

B Y :

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H E L E N

G L E E S O N

DAVI D Morton

t h e … C u t t h ro a t j o ur na l c h a ts w i t h P e r e g r i n e B lue a n d Sha v i n g Es sen t i a ls o wn er D a v i d Mort on traction as the new breed of barber shops entering man must shave is a motto that David Revenge and Truefitt and Hill.

Morton swears by.

‘We now have new barbers coming to us every the market wanted great, premium brands with a And he should know, he’s been in the week wanting our brands. I talk with every owner point of difference. premium hair and skin care game for men personally before we bring them on board, because These new barber shops offered more than just a and women for 40 years.

I think it’s important that the barber, who is often haircut, they offered their customers an experience.

It wasn’t until a decade ago that he actually began putting his or her life savings into their new shop, Going to the barber was not just to get a cut, it was focusing on the male only ranges. Until that time, get to talk with the owner of their product supply for a chat, some product advice, maybe a shave, but all that was available to the Australian male were company and not just a representative.’ ultimately a total experience. add-ons to female lines and one US barber brand.The ‘I really enjoy working with the owners to tailor ‘Men became more conscious of how they wanted premium male markets were growing overseas and brands and quantities to their specific needs, to look because they were aware of what was David saw that trend spreading to Australia. and watching their businesses grow and become happening with US and European grooming trends.

Having been in the health and successful.’ beauty industry throughout his Now overseas brands are knocking career, managing large multion his door wanting to distribute I B E G A N B Y P O U N D I N G T H E PA V E M E N T S O F F E R I N G national companies in Australia, in Australia, but only top quality, BARBERS BRANDS LIKE BAXTER OF CALIFORNIA, BUT the US and Canada, David decided cutting edge male-only brands I N T H O S E D AY S M O S T B A R B E R S D I D N ’ T S E L L M U C H to retire at the age of 52 to spend will be selected for the Australian PRODUCT TO THEIR CUSTOMERS, THEY JUST CUT HAIR. quality time with his family. marketplace.

But he didn’t sit idle long.

The most important thing to the ‘I saw the flickers of the flame in humble businessman is having a balance of work We are a one of a kind company, not only in Australia the Australian male looking for premium products,’ and lifestyle.

David has been part of the Australian but in the world. We do not sell female brands at all, David said.

Triathlon Age Group for four years and stays healthy nor do we sell a brand if it’s a spin off of a female He started his first company, Peregrine Blue, from swimming, running and bike riding. Three years ago brand. We are all about male-only brands for real humble beginnings, and those early days were not an he ranked 20th in the World in the 60-65 year age blokes.’ easy road. group.

‘We run two companies, Peregrine Blue and Shaving ‘I began by pounding the pavements offering barbers ‘Family and health is important and I’m lucky to Essentials, that offer the world’s best male grooming brands like Baxter of California, but in those days have a great family that wants to work with me. I brands to barbers.’ most barbers didn’t sell much product to their would love my daughters to take over the business Still a family business with David, his youngest customers, they just cut hair. I literally started with a someday, then maybe I can retire again.’ daughter Rachel, 22, and four staff, Peregrine Blue handful of customers,’ he said. ‘Barbering back then In the meantime, if you are a new barbershop, and Shaving Essentials now operates from a large was very different to what it is like now.’ or an existing barbershop that wants to expand warehouse in Sydney’s northwest.

The first four years were a battle. ‘Yes, we saw growth into premium products, David is always open for He sells around 22 brands including Baxter of every year, but the base was small,’ he said. a chat. You can contact him by phone 0410 576 California, Layrite, Muhle, Lucky Tiger, Blue Beards After four years the brands began to get some real 574 or email david.morton@malespecific.com

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A l P h a B a r b e r s

GROWING UP IN ITALY IN THE MID 1960’S, MY FATHER WOULD ALWAYS REMIND ME THAT NO MATTER HOW TOUGH THINGS WERE, YOU SHOULD ALWAYS TRY TO TREAT YOURSELF TO A SHOE POLISH AND A FACE SHAVE. THOSE WORDS ALWAYS STUCK WITH ME, WHICH BECAME ONE OF THE INFLUENCES IN HOW MY CAREER AS A BARBER STARTED. THAT WAS REALLY THE START OF ALPHA BARBERS.

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ike any young man with an older sibling, I grew up admiring my older brother, Carmelo, who became a hairdresser. My dad set up a small hairdressing studio in the garage and he would cut all his friends hair. I would sit and watch. At the time it was just a thrill to be around the older boys. Who knew this was one day going to be my passion.

While my brother was cutting hair I was playing soccer and reached the national league level representing the Australian under 17’s. So after high school, I tried to continue my sporting career and was given great opportunities. I soon realised however, that this was not going to be my longterm career path. My brother, Carmelo, encouraged me to complete a hairdressing course. So I did.

Once qualified, I was fortunate enough to work with some amazing people and at some of the most prestige salons, but I didn’t really enjoy all aspects of the hair salon. Washing out colour, blow waving, waiting on appointments - it wasn’t me. During this time my brother had moved to London. He was managing multiple salons, but by 2007 he left hairdressing and started working as a barber in Melbourne. After having enough of salons and hairdressing, I too decided to take on 40

a barbering position at ‘Barber on Central’, now known as ‘Alpha barbers’. Working in the heart of the city I started to understand that my passion was in mens grooming and managing a business that suited what most males are about – no appointments and reasonable pricing. The number of people who would come in and request a face shave amazed me, which was not something we offered at the time. Although I worked as a barber I did not consider myself one until I mastered this technique. This is where the other strong influence in my career, my father, came into play.

My father knew some older Italian barbers, so I decided to make myself known to them and asked them to show me this dying art. They were so overwhelmed that I wanted to learn this skill, as barbering was becoming a lost trade and maybe not really respected by the hairdressing industry.

They were always ready to teach and never turned me away if they were busy. These skilled barbers would explain techniques to me as they treated their clients. This is something I have carried with me to this day, not only the skill set, but the friendly and inviting approach to anyone who walks through the door, customers or staff.

In 2009 when my father decided to return

Photo by Chris Rick Carlin S U C C E S S

S T O R I E S

AT ALPHA BARBERS, OUR PHILOSOPHY IS TO BE PROFESSIONAL, PERFORM CONSISTENTLY, AND TO PROVIDE OUR CUSTOMERS WITH AN ENJOYABLE RELAXING EXPERIENCE THAT THEY WILL REMEMBER. THE GROWTH WE HAVE ACHIEVED IS BEYOND OUR BELIEF.

to Sicily to see his family I returned with him.

My ambition was to learn how to face shave, the traditional way. There was no better way to learn than to spend time working in Sicily in a town called Floridia, where there are more barber shops than 7/11 stores in Melbourne’s CBD. This experience inspired me to become a master at barbering. I wanted to be the best and know the best, so I ventured overseas again to do a master barber course, where I completed my training under a celebrity barber, UK’s first grooming guru, Daniel Rouah. I felt as though I needed to do this to be the best barber I could be from an education and learning perspective. Men have become more knowledgeable and more conscious about looking after themselves and I wanted to be able to provide my clients with the best treatment and advice even when they have left the store. Daniel Rouah taught me how to combine a face shave with a treatment.

Understanding that it is not just about some facial

hair, cream and a blade, but knowledge of the skin, assorted products, ingredients to best suit certain people and comprehension of razors and brushes for the best process and finish. As we all know, everyone is unique and one size doesn’t fit all.

In 2010, my brother Carmelo and I bought ‘Barber on Central’. In 2011, we opened our second store in Melbourne’s Hardware Lane with a good friend, Adam Scott. We changed our name to ‘Alpha Barbers’. I cannot continue without noting that Adam is very unique in our barber trade. He grew up in country Victoria, a town called Kerang, where he completed a barbering apprenticeship.

To this day his flat top is the best I have ever seen.

Adam often reminds us that when he moved to Melbourne 10 years ago he struggled to get work as a barber, and now we can’t get enough of them.

Carmelo, Adam and I all share the same passion and values, which is so important in business partnership.

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At Alpha barbers, our philosophy is to be professional, perform consistently, and to provide our customers with an enjoyable relaxing experience that they will remember. The growth we have achieved is beyond our belief. We have a great team and we are like family. Our knowledge is second to none, and our staff is always striving to raise the bar. Although we have had opportunities to open up franchises, we are unwavering in staying true to what barbering traditionally is. To us it is all about individual service. Our barber shops are our homes and we are working in them all the time. There are three words we feel represent us and represent our business; warm, friendly and proud. We would like our customers, the old and the new, to associate those words with us too, as we bring back what was once old and recreate this custom across many generations.

Story by Frank Bazzano.

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SOUTH East Asia Tour

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ACOUSTIC FOLK PUNK ROCKER JIMMY KYLE, AKA CHASING GHOSTS, WRITES A CRAZY DIARY OF HIS RECENT SOUTH EAST ASIAN FOR THE CUTTHROAT JOURNAL. HE IS CURRENTLY WORKING ON HIS SECOND STUDIO ALBUM DUE FOR RELEASE IN 2015. CHASING GHOSTS DEBUT ALBUM, CONFESSIONS FROM A PHONE BOOTH, IS AVAILABLE IN STORE AND ON ITUNES AND ALL GOOD ONLINE STORES

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emo songs. The language gap is more intense Day 1 Day 3 than the other countries but the and kids are more In a great rush to Melbourne airport bound for After staying on the couch of a Malay buddy we’re enthusiastic and singing along. We jump back in Sydney to play the first show of many, I realise up at 6am with two hours sleep before heading the van and continue to drive through the night to I’ve lost the keys for the guitar cases! Landing to the airport. Off to Singapore for the Sailor Jerry Batu. A young punk who speaks no English drives in Sydney I race, guitars in hand and backpack Nostalgia Lane festival. Arriving at the festival us through some hairy mountains. He later calmly weighing heavy, to the nearest guitar store hoping the day is packed with all things classic and crosses directly into head on traffic, to overtake the rock gods shined greatly that day! Thankfully Singapore’s kool kat scene – the denim jeans, presumably, floors the van and makes a last I was in luck finding some odd keys which pried Triumph motorcycles, punk culture, tattoo artists, minute turns back on to our side of the road as if open and then lock my cases again! Phew! After a all working along side the best old school barbers it were a game of chicken! We pulled over for a night of music to an intimate enthusiastic crowd South East Asia has! Hounds of The Baskervilles feed at a local road side store which was epic, but supporting an old friend, Scotte Woods of One are the brains behind this terrific celebration! After my love of western toilets is about to be realised.

Dollar Short, I meet up with JJ Peters Of Deez Nuts having an interview with MTV and performing, Surrounded by scenic tall mountains the tour and Andrew Neufield of Comeback Kid for a quick my night ends in a late night curry in little India manager points out where one of the Bali Bombers shot of Jager before darting off with Wood for with good friends. Again I’m on the couch for a was found and shot. We arrive early in the Dinner. Now, Kuala Lumpur here I come! few hours sleep before heading to Surabaya in morning and go to check into our hotel to find the Day 2 Indonesia. accommodation has no working toilets Arriving late into KL Sentral Station and no keys to enter some of the rooms. and find my phone’s dead. Prayed to We drive another 40 min to Malang and the rock gods again that somehow THE VENUE IS AN EMPTIED OUT COFFEE SHOP FULL check into a hotel there. my ride stayed around for two O F YO U N G P U N K/M E TA L K I D S P L AY I N G O L D E M O Day 5 hours to pick me up for my first SONGS. THE LANGUAGE GAP IS MORE INTENSE THAN Woken up for a lunch media sesh which Malaysian show. I’m in luck! Before THE OTHER COUNTRIES BUT THE KIDS ARE MORE saw me preform two songs inbetween long we arrive in front of a derelict ENTHUSIASTIC AND SINGING ALONG. racing back and forth to the bathroom! restaurant in the city of Petaling (Stupid immune system and delicioius Jaya. I’m taken around the back road side stalls!) I try to sleep for a entrance, upstairs to a discreet while. Arriving at the festival in Batu tonight I venue with a waiting audience. The rain has had no Day 4 was met with old school punks, metal heads, scar affect on their enthusiasm. Playing with local folk Racing to the airport in a balmy sweat only to kids and hardcore fans. This was the first time and folk punk musicians singing political lyrics of find my flight has been delayed by three hours. I a vast majority of the audience really had zero anti government sentiment in Malay and English. doze off in an open bar at the airport trying to rest English and my tour manager suddenly becomes With drinks and cigarettes in hand the night rolls my voice. I wake in a panic - I’ve been drooling my translator between songs. They seem a little into a late start (a common thread for shows for for three hours and nearly miss my flight to East perplexed by the idea of folk punk? A lot of the the next two weeks ) but ultimately a terrific first Java! I’m met by my booking agent in East Java young guys here are really hearing my music for show followed by dinner out at local road side and jump into a van to take a two and a half hour the first time, unlike other areas. They anticipated stalls. There’s rats as big as puppies who pay zero drive to Kediri, where I’m playing my first show something else I’m sure of it! Kids form Kediri’s attention to me or any other humans. in Indonesia. The venue is an emptied out coffee show last night have come and are singing along shop full of young punk/metal kids playing old

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others look confused. The night ends well but I wonder how much meaning will be lost with such little English?

Day 6 Back in Malang I play a charity show with an Indonesian singer called Fadily. He’s pretty famous here and I spend a day with Indonesian punk rockers being educated in the local punk underground. I play a second show for the night later at a roof top bar which results in copious amounts of whisky being consumed with local punks. It’s at this point an entourage of the industry’s finest head out to a nightclub. I don’t dance. More whisky! I don’t dance. More whisky … I dance! And later….hurl. Thankfully it’s only in the company of the tour manager, safe back at the hotel.

Day 7 After chilling out in Malang riding around on a tuk-tuk and finding reprieve in coffee, the crew and I fly to Bali for a day of rest before tomorrow nights’ show. Before long I see the boys from Strikes (in my opinion South East Asia’s greatest straight up hardcore band) and a chilled catch up over drinks leads to a night out at the Horrendous … where the local Balinese lads and I have a hilarious night with much goofing off.

Day 8 My buddy, Bugs, and I grab some afternoon brekky after he sneaks away from the Afends Store. Again the rats casually lump by, barely dodging my feet.

I’m starting to find them cute and endearing.

Show time! With an acoustic start playing gas light anthem covers, followed by the energy of Strikes then I’m on. This show was possibly the most fun and I do love a mixed bill! All I can say is Twice Bar offers locals a place to belong and I think that’s

why I love the place. The lads and I head out before grabbing my bags and heading for the airport. Back to Malaysia again, but this time to play in Kuala Lumpur. Its 4am.

Day 9 What up KL, I check in to a hotel in China town and dive on a bed for sleep. 7 hours later I’m awake and seek out a familiar coffee haunt for some morning curry … yup curry. It’s Halloween and the show is in a venue near the Batu caves. It’s an underground dive bar. I’ve heard many awesome stories about it. It’s in the heart of the KL underground scene, not the bullshit cover bands seen everywhere else.

I arrive two hours late after my cab driver, who of course knows the way, stopped and asked 9 different people how to get there. Eventually it’s a local off duty police officer who shows us the way.

It’s interesting watching people make gestures to represent punks i.e. using their fingers to make a Mohawk and air drums followed by “Bang! Bang!

Bang!” everyone seems to understand this universal gesturing. The show was by far the most interesting I think I’ve ever done! The PA was horrendous and clearly blown, making my guitar sound distorted. I literally was louder than the vocal PA at times and my words most definitely were inaudible. Still, the crowd who were dressed in some of the most dark and sinister Halloween outfits ever, put outstanding energy into the show, appreciating every line. Outside we dodged wild dogs and drunken Halloween goers with fireworks. I got home to have an hour’s sleep before heading to the airport once again!

Day 10 Bangkok is currently under military rule and slightly quieter than I remember, slightly! By tuk-tuk I raced to the next show which again ran famously late into

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the night as expatriates and locals alike had a ball.

Day 11 Sleep, sleep, sleep. Coffee, coffee, coffee! Heading to the next venue on a Sunday night, a small art gallery. Thinking tonight will be a small show but how wrong I was. The venue over flowed, spilling onto the street in a swarm of swaying bohemians.

The night ends late with a jam and sing along until well after then venue is closed.

Day 12 Thought I had a day off before heading home but find out I’ve been asked to do a live to air blog spot for Bangkok’s premier bands and touring artists.

Thinking this will be some dodgy set up but am completely caught off guard by the camera, sound equipment and lighting as I perform to an intimate audience on the balcony of a Bangkok high rise.

Finally I’m free for a night and soon enough I head out for a wild night in the barrows and keep my head in the clouds for the next few hours!

Day 13 Land in Australia. I’m jet lagged but so appreciative.

I head straight to work on my last show the next night in Melbourne. I sit down and finish an interview with Juice, a Singapore online zine, about touring South East Asia and then head straight to the post office to mail out a bunch of merch.

Running on adrenaline with sleep deprivation looming.

Day 14 Melbourne gig! Surprised to find that before I play the room fills with the faithful. I’m met with great sing alongs and appreciation. I’m scattered, dazed and drained but it’s a great feeling to play to a home audience. 14 days, 14 performances, 5 countries, 8 flights, 1 dude and zero sleep.

Until next time love Jimmy aka Chasing Ghosts.

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For a full size poster for your barbershop contact us at info@thecutthroatjournal.com

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Coffee machine Review { W I T H S E A N E D WA R D S }

Rocket Giotto PID v3

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{ INTO YOUR BUSINESS}

IN AUSTRALIA WE DRINK OVER 13 BILLION DOLLARS WORTH OF COFFEE FROM OUR HOME ENVIRONMENT, AND ESPRESSO COFFEE IS NOW OUR DRINK OF CHOICE. THIS TREND HAS HAPPENED FASTER IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS, WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE POD/CAPSULE MACHINE. The Giotto has many technical features in its latest able to offer your clients a crackingly good espresso This has made espresso coffee very model, replicating a high end commercial coffee based coffee! Already, so many of the nation’s hair affordable to have in the home, and in machine like you see in cafes, but still very easy to salons have this on offer for their customers, Now small business like the barbershop. The use. Going from a capsule machine to the Giotto is with the emergence of the men’s barbershop, it’s pod system is a great starting block, but like going from a FJ Holden to a Ferrari. A huge jump time to get on board. it has a few issues, like the strength of the pod in quality, at a great price point.

The Rocket Giotto is a wonderful addition to any serve. It is quite weak considering a Nespresso Its time to add some quality into your barber small to medium size business in any industry. Add capsule can only take around 5 grams of coffee. business. Stop sending your Most café owners are serving a customers up the street for a coffee, volume of plus ten grams through or offering that weak brew that they a traditional espresso machine IN THIS CATEGORY OF ESPRESSO MACHINE, THE pretend to like. single cup coffee. Pods, or capsule ROCKET GIOTTO DELIVERS THE SAME FOUR KEY Please contact Andrew or Kristine machines, are also not going to FEATURES THAT A COMMERCIAL MACHINE DOES. THIS at Peak Coffee on 02 65812677 give you the same milk steaming M E A N S T H E O U T C O M E I S I D E N T I C A L I N E V E R Y WA Y or Espresso Company Australia on quality that you would get from TO YOUR FAVOURITE ESPRESSO BAR CAFÉ PURCHASE, 1300 326 326 for sales and service a boiler style espresso setup.

PROVIDED YOU FOLLOW A FEW BASIC STEPS. Please visit www.giotto.com.au Remember, 95% of coffees sold in cafes are milk based. value and retro style to your customer service. A I would like to introduce a system that is the Giotto will give the cool element that the modern next step up from a capsule model. It is going to Barber space is renowned for. have some real longevity into the future. I have A reasonably small investment for such a great personally owned a Giotto Coffee machine now for value add quality café coffee experience in store. over ten years and it has not missed a beat. Last 15 years on, and the year on year growth of this year I gave it a birthday present and put in a new Rocket Giotto category of machinery has been very shower screen and seal, which cost less than $20. impressive for home. Also specifically for the small Not bad maintenance for a machine that has turned to medium sized businesses that wish to pride out thousands of life saving morning brews. themselves on adding another level of customer Imagine, Rocket Giotto PID V3 ‘Cutting Edge, in focused service, a wonderful coffee. barbershops, offering espressos! This machine In this category of espresso machine, the Rocket has a very small footprint and will replicate a fully Giotto delivers the same four key features that a commercially espresso system. It’s the top of the commercial machine does. This means the outcome range home machine but it’s semi commercially is identical in every way to your favourite espresso applicable. There are many small restaurants and bar café purchase, provided you follow a few basic bars that use the Giotto as their coffee system. steps.

It’s really not a difficult series of short steps to be

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It's the silly season

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t’s the silly season. Hence why this column is a little shorter than usual. I’m not going to tell you not to eat the pork crackling or the trifle on Christmas Day. I’m not going to tell you to abstain from heating up left over pudding for Boxing Day breakfast and slathering custard all over it before devouring it. You know what, this time of year is about that sort of thing. Stuff you sort of can’t get away with at other times of the year without those judges judging.

So, having said all that, here are my top tips for maintaining some sort of health over this time of year. It is possible to indulge and abstain in spurts. Great health advice hey. (This information is not backed by any recognised health organisation or trainer): • Try not to have any more than 2 helpings at any one time • If you need to unbutton your

pants after Christmas lunch, you’ve probably eaten a little too much • If there’s a choice of trifle or pudding on Christmas day, maybe just choose one, instead of whacking both on your plate• • Stop eating if you feel like you’re going to vomit • Try to avoid mixer drinks with soft drinks. Opt for soda mixers instead • Go for a walk after lunch • Or a swim • Or just dance, it’s the festive season!

• Drink water in between alcoholic bevvies My best advice? Relax, enjoy time with family and friends and have fun. It’s good for the mind and for the soul.

Lionbeard - Nathan Green Email us at: info@ thecutthroatjournal.com

FiT BaR ber

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{ DC ARTIST}

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{ DC ARTIST SINDY SINN}

Ducale Coffee Reale Blend Artwork OUR 1KG COFFEE BAGS, THAT WE SUPPLY OUR CAFES WITH, NEEDED A NEW DESIGN AND WE SAW THAT AS A BLANK CANVAS FOR AN ARTIST TO GO TO TOWN ON! MEET SINDY SINN, THE ARTIST BEHIND THE REALE BLEND. calluses have never really had a chance to heal. I also have a love of ‘My artwork style comes from a lifelong obsession with cartoons, beers and burritos - basically just anything that starts with a B. crap jokes and storytelling. As a kid, I frothed over the artwork in Mad My design for Ducale’s ‘Reale’ blend, came about fairly naturally. I Magazines and old Nickelodeon cartoons like Ren & Stimpy … and liked the idea of ‘keeping it reale’ and giving it some underdog fighting as an adult, not much has changed, except I don’t have a bedtime ‘spirit. So I just treated the Reale design like it was a gang. I started anymore. I’ve worked incredibly hard and feel incredibly privileged to by rewatching the 1979 movie, The Warriors, and combining it’s funky have turned illustration into such a fun and rewarding career. style with my own and my weird infatuation with denim.

I find inspiration all over the place, from watching old movies to I’ve usually got a pretty steady wondering what’s in playlist of Black Sabbath and someone’s lunchbox.

Rolling Stones cranked while Inspiration isn’t very MY DESIGN FOR DUCALE’S ‘REALE’ BLEND, CAME working. But lately, I’ve been hard to find if you A B O U T F A I R LY N A T U R A L LY . I L I K E D T H E I D E A listening to lots of Seasick open your eyes and OF ‘KEEPING IT REALE’ AND GIVING IT SOME Steve, Left Lane Cruiser and The look for it. Which I U N D E R D O G F I G H T I N G - S P I R I T. S O I J U S T T R E A T E D Heavy. I’m generally not too think the internet has TH E R E A L E D E S I G N L I K E I T WA S A G A N G . picky… anything with some guts been great for, these and a decent stomp will get my days you can scroll attention. through thousands of killer artists and artworks while sipping your I always have a pretty full plate and I’m very fortunate to be involved morning coffee. But I reckon Robert Crumb, Coop and Karl Kaufmann in lots of exciting projects. At the moment I’m doing a ton of burger are my biggest influences right now. illustrations and branding for Mary’s Newtown, some beer labels and Besides drawing and illustrating … I’m a drummer, currently playing in a my usual stream of rock n roll gig posters. I welcome any bands or super fun groovy blues band called The Persian Drugs. It’s the ultimate brands that want to do something weird and crazy to get in touch … excuse to get out of the house and sweat it out with your mates over let’s make cool art together!’ a few beers. I’ve been playing in bands for about ten years now, so my

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Photo by Tony Allison.

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A NIGHT WiTH the real TRiPPy o when we first came across Tim Dodd at Turnstyles Barbers, it was to promote The Cutthroat Journal. Tim is a great supporter of the barber industry and has been one of our magazine’s biggest advocates and enthusiasts. This guy lives, eats and breathes barbering.

We ran a small feature on Tim in a previous issue and became great mates.

Tim started sending us emails, letting us know he was going to bring over one of the hottest talents in Los Angeles to Coffs Harbour. He had scouted Timothy Wayne Tripp Jnr, AKA The Real Trippy, so we jumped on board to get involved.

The idea was to share skills with the hairdressing community.

Sure enough he had not only booked the flights, he had booked the University auditorium for an evening show of global barbering skills, music, food and a good old fashioned Q & A. Tim also booked out The Coffs Harbour TAFE for a Barbers Masterclass.

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When we turned up the set was amazing, set out like an old skool barber shop.

Bumping Hip Hop from Trippys collection was creating a great atmosphere.

Both Tim and Tripp came on stage with a slideshow and music, and both told their stories.

Trippy had come from the harshest of harsh backgrounds, and barbering had truly been his salvation. A very humble guy with ultimate respect for the trade.

Not only did he show off and demonstrate those amazing fades we all see and aspire to, he told us all the trade tricks and tips to achieve this, and afro hair fading skills.

Next was Roddy From Barberco demonstrating a perfect cutthroat shave, amazing to see Roddy carry this out so professionally when the whole audience came down from their seats and surrounded him.

Luke from The Bearded Chap came on stage to give The Complete Beard Education, using Jimbo, our editor, as a model.

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The audience was engaged and asked countless questions.There were prizes and VIP bags as well provided by sponsors.

Two days later a Masterclass with The Real Trippy, thanks to North Coast TAFE Hair Department. Featuring hands on afro skills, shaving and prizes. This was really well received, and both events were attended by guests from Queensland to Victoria. Tim has now booked another barber from Seattle, Brian Burt, who will be finishing off a world tour in Coffs Harbour with a masterclass at TAFE in December.

All of this came about from Instagram, how cool is that? Such a great way for barbers worldwide to connect.

The industry needs more people like Tim. TIm wanted to thank the following supporters: Turnstyles Barbers, The Cutthroat Journal (hey, that’s us!), The Real Trippy, Barberco Barber Supplies, Norris Hair and Beauty supplies, TAFE Hairdressing Department Coffs Harbour, The Bearded Chap.

{ INTERVIEW}

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THREE THINGS WE NOTICED STRAIGHT UP ABOUT JACK CARTY: HE REALLY ROCKS A GREAT GRANDPA JUMPER, HE LOVES LYING DOWN NEXT TO PLANTS AND GETTING PHOTOS TAKEN, AND HIS LAST NAME COULD BE THE SUBJECT OF RHYMING MOCKERY – IF YOU WERE THAT WAY INCLINED AND POSSIBLY SOMEWHAT IMMATURE. NOW WE ONLY WRITE THIS KNOWING THAT JACK HAS A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOUR.

hich he does. After seeing the way he handled a granny fan and all her crotch loving comments to him at a recent gig, there’s no doubt this dude’s funny. But enough about crotches and nature and last names rhyming with farty, this Jack Carty is one seriously amazing muso. Here’s some stuff he had to say when we caught up with him recently.

Did you grow up in a musical family? Were you always musical?

I think so…Mum reckons she found me singing the melody to a children’s song called “Inch Worm” before I could speak. I grew up in a semimusical family. Mum plays a bit of guitar and dad has a naturally good voice, but neither of them are trained musicians. I am the eldest of four, and only two of us really sing or play instruments.

Describe your best career highlights to date.

There have been quite a few moments and days

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Paul Kelly, Josh Pyke, Bob Dylan, Death Cab For Cutie, Nick Drake… the list goes on and on.

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing? I’d be a history professor… with a beard, a pipe, a tweed jacket. The whole shebang.

You have recently released ‘Esk’ – describe the style and mood, what should we expect? What does the title mean? It covers a fair range of ground, I think you’ll have to hear it. But it’s generally a bigger sound than my previous albums and definitely my most ambitious release yet. There is a song on there set around/named after the “Esk” river in Northern Tasmania, I liked that “esk” isn’t too prescriptive a word, but still seems to have some sort of connotation for most people.

Do you get nervous about performing? Not as a general rule… Mostly I just feel excited and grateful.

How many weeks a year do you spend touring? I have no idea… I had no fixed address

touring that you’ve got to learn how to keep an even keel about it all, be grateful and keep rolling.

What’s your dream venue to play? The Bowery Ballroom in New York City. I’ve seen a bunch of amazing bands there, would love to play it myself some day.

How many instruments do you play? That depends on what you qualify as “play”? Let’s just say 4: Guitar, Drums, Bass & Piano.

What’s playing on your ipod at the moment?

The new Conor Oberst album “Upside Down Mountain”… Nobody writes lyrics like that guy.

If you had to record a Christmas carol, which one would it be? Silent Night.

What’s your position on faical hair? What’s your fiance’s? I am all for facial hair! I’ve got a beard more often than not, though that is as much about an aversion to shaving as it is about appearance. My fiancé tends to be onboard the beard-train whilst I am sporting one, but once I

IT COVERS A FAIR RANGE OF GROUND, I THINK YOU’LL HAVE TO HEAR IT. BUT IT’S GENERALLY A BIGGER SOUND THAN MY PREVIOUS ALBUMS AND DEFINITELY MY MOST AMBITIOUS RELEASE YET. THERE IS A SONG ON THERE SET AROUND/NAMED AFTER THE “ESK” RIVER IN NORTHERN TASMANIA, I LIKED THAT “ESK” ISN’T TOO PRESCRIPTIVE A WORD, BUT STILL SEEMS TO HAVE SOME SORT OF CONNOTATION FOR MOST PEOPLE.. that stand out. Showcasing at SXSW is one, as was touring with some of my high school hero’s like Josh Pyke, Justin Townes-Earle and Katie Noonan…Playing Woodford Folk Festival is right up there too, we used to go there as a family when I was a kid.

How many roads must a man walk down before they call him a man? None, who cares what they say anyway?

How would you describe your musical style?

Lyrical, melodic indie-folk in the storytelling tradition.

Who would be your main influences musically? Conor Oberst, Neil Young, Ryan Adams, Paul Simon, Van Morrison, Sufjan Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Elliott Smith, Radiohead,

for three years, so that felt like one big tour.

These days I have a home base, but i’m still out on the road more often than not.

Best and worst part of touring?

The best part is seeing new places, sharing music, meeting other like-minded people who love it like I do, and the feeling that I’m doing what I am meant to be doing. The worst part is the lack of sleep.

Worst gig ever? Let’s just say it involved a small-town and a racist venue owner.

Best gig ever? They are all beautiful in their own way. I can’t remember distinct details about as much of the past three years as I should… which is a bit of a worry. But I’ve found that the high’s are so high, and the lows are so low in

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shave there’s often some sort of comment like “Oh, I like seeing your face”.

Do you/ have you ever visited a barber? Do you have a local barber? I have and I do! I’ve just moved to Brisbane and am still finding my way around a bit, but I went to Bare Bones in Morningside whilst on tour a few years ago and I thought they were ace.

Check out Jack’s latest release ‘Esk’ out now.

THE ALBUM

L U K E C O L E F R E E S T Y L E

M O T O R C R O S S

ere you always a daredevil?

I always had that nature to push things to the limit.

Even from a toddler mum has told me stories of just running to the deep end of the pool and jumping off, sinking to the bottom and having to be dragged to the surface, only to do it again 10 mins later. But right through my childhood I was always pushing the limits. It didn’t matter if I was jumping out of trees into the river or surfing big waves, I always wanted to be going bigger and further than anyone else.

Did you grow up riding motorbikes?

Yeah, my dad bought me our first bike when I was 7. My parents never really had much money so I never got a new bike, or even a near new bike. I always had bikes that were held together with fencing wire and duct tape. We lived on 25 acres in Dubbo, so we had plenty of room to build tracks and have heaps of fun.

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RIDING A MOTOCROSS BIKE OFF A MASSIVE RAMP AND FLYING IT INTO THE SKY AND FLIPPING AND THEN TRYING TO LAND ON ANOTHER RAMP IS TOTALLY NORMAL RIGHT? IF YOU’RE A CRAZY PERSON THAT IS. WE TALKED TO ONE SUCH CRAZY DUDE, LUKE COLE, ABOUT HIS TIME RIDING FREESTYLE MOTOCROSS (FMX)

Photography courtesy of Rob MacFarlane 60

How did you get started in Freestyle Motocross (FMX)?

I kind of just fell into it really. I ruptured my ear drum surfing when I was in my early 20s and I couldn’t surf for 18months. I decided to buy myself a dirt bike again. I raced for a little while, but just local club days. I was really slow and not very good. But what I did know is that I liked hitting the bigger jumps.

I found a jump in the bush near my house and started to ride it whenever I could. The sport of FMX was in it infancy, with it only just getting started in Australia. I watched the videos and looked at the magazines and would go out and try what I saw. I did my first contest in Melbourne in 2000 and it all went from there.

How did you get to the point of being able to jump those big jumps and learn those crazy-arse tricks?

I’ve had that question a lot throughout my career.

People would talk to me after contests and demos and say ‘you guys are stupid!’ but learning FMX is the same as learning anything else, you start small and get bigger and more difficult. I didn’t go out on my first day and automatically do a backflip. I started on small jumps and easy tricks. Then the jumps got bigger and bigger, and the tricks got harder and harder.

The backflip is a pretty average trick in your sport these days, how’d you learn to do that? Were you shitting yourself the first time you tried it?

The back flip was a trick that kicked my butt for a few years. I first tried it when there were only a few guys in the world doing them. I pretty much put some hay down on a downramp and tried to flip off it. I landed on my head 3 times and broke my collar bone on the 4th jump. I went on to have a varying degree of success in the next 2 years. I crashed 20-30 flips and only landed a handful. It took its toll on me, mentally and physically. I didn’t try it again for a few years. Then I finally got my head around it and nailed it. Was I shitting myself the first time I tried it?

Yep!! And the 2nd time and 3rd time and 103rd time.

I never got to a point where I wasn’t nervous about doing my first one for the day.

Describe the feeling you have when you’re performing a jump?

That’s a tough feeling to describe. When you first start, it’s a very physical sensation. You enjoy flying through the air, feeling weightless. It feels amazing.

But all that kind of fades away. I still got a kick out of riding, but it was more a sense of accomplishment when I did a trick really well, or I learnt a new trick.

How long did you do it?

I did it for about 10 years at a professional and semi professional level.

How many injuries - what were they?

I was pretty lucky really. A lot of guys I rode with have ended up with long term issues and injuries they will carry with them forever. Although I’ve had my fair share of injuries, I rarely feel them on a daily I’VE BROKEN MY BACK TWICE. BROKEN BOTH COLLAR BONES, SEPARATED AC JOINTS IN BOTH SHOULDERS. BLEW OUT BOTH ANKLES A NUMBER OF TIMES, COMPRESSION FRACTURED MY THUMB AND I SMASHED MY BALLS A BUNCH OF TIMES AS WELL!

basis.

Best jump?

The trick I loved doing was called a ‘double nac’. It entailed you pushing the bike out in one direction and your body going out the other direction as you’re doing a handstand on your handlebars. It probably wasn’t my hardest trick, but one I enjoyed doing.

What made you stop?

I just lost the love for it. I got busy having a family and working a ‘normal’ job. So time to practice was pretty hard to come by. When I did get out to practice I got frustrated because I felt like I was riding badly.

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So once the joy left it was harder and harder to get out and practice. I had a crash where I popped a few ribs off my sternum and I remember laying In the dirt thinking ‘oh im done with this shit!’ and that was pretty much it..

Would you do it again now?

I have only gone out and ridden FMX once since I threw it in. It was a ride day for a a guy I know who died attempting to break the long distance record. All the boys were there and I got excited and went out and had a crack again.

I’m actually just about to head up to the Gold Coast for a 10 year awards night for the team I used to ride for, JC Epidemic. I’ve also opened my mouth and found myself saying I’ll go and ride with some of the boys again. I guess we will see how that goes.

Your brother Matt rode with you too didn’t he?

Yeah he did. We both started at about the same time.

It was really good having a riding partner. We are both pretty competitive and would push each other a lot. About half way through our careers, we took different paths. Matt went and lived in the states and China and Europe, and I stayed home and chased the Aussie scene because I had a family.

We came to blows a few times over stupid things, as all brothers do, but I loved riding with him.

How did your mum cope with two of her sons doing such a dangerous sport?

Yeah mum went through the ringer with us doing this sport. She had countless phones calls from random guys at all hours of the day and night saying ‘Matt/ Luke has had a crash. They’re ok, but they are on their way to the hospital’. There were a few phone calls when the news wasn’t as good. Mum was very very happy the day that each of us decided to stop riding professionally.

I want to say a huge thanks to Beau and Sheridan at Oakley eye wear for their support over the last 12 years. So stoked to be part of the Oakley family.

Luke Cole, The Cutthroat Journal thanks you for your time and awesome stories!

GOOD FEELS

{ URBAN OZ HARVEST}

URBAN HARVEST

{ 50 TOP CHEFS • 100 RECIPES}

OzHarvest was founded in November 2004 by Ronni Kahn, who was named Australia’s Local Hero of the Year in 2010.

In 2005, Kahn together with pro-bono lawyers, lobbied the state governments to amend legislation to allow potential food donors to donate surplus food to charitable organisations.

The Civil Liabilities Amendment Act was passed in NSW in 2005 with ACT, SA and QLD following. This ensured surplus food could be donated to charitable causes without fear of liability.

OzHarvest is a fantastic idea, the first perishable food rescue organisation in Australia collecting quality excess food from commercial outlets and

Prep time: 1 Day 30 Min Cook Time: 10 Min Serves: 6

delivering it, direct and free of charge, to 500 charities, providing much needed assistance to vulnerable men, women and children across Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne and Newcastle.

OzHarvest have just released their second cookbook, Urban Harvest, featuring 100 food rescue recipes from 50 of the countries most celebrated chefs.

Here is a selection of delectably delicious recipes from Urban Harvest. Chuck em on your Christmas day menu!

To order your copy of Urban Harvest, head to ozharvest.org or call 1800 108 006. Awesome Christmas gift people! $60 / cookbook (incl. GST)

PORK BURGERS WITH CUCUMBER KIMCHI { HAMISH INGRAM}

NEED

1.2kg minced pork 2 tablespoons ground fennel seed salt and pepper 8 brioche buns, split and toasted Cucumber Kimchi

1 tablespoon white sugar 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce 1 tablespoon white vinegar

¼ garlic clove, finely chopped 1 tablespoon Korean chilli paste* 2 Lebanese cucumbers, sliced Chinese Coleslaw

¼ Chinese cabbage (wombok), finely sliced 1 bunch of coriander leaves picked 1 bunch mint, leaves picked 2 spring onions, finely sliced 2 tablespoons whole egg mayonnaise

How

Start this recipe a day ahead.

To make the cucumber kimchi, place all the ingredients except the cucumber in a bowl and stir until the sugar dissolves.

Add the cucumber, toss to coat well, then cover and stand overnight. Drain before using.

To make the Chinese coleslaw, place all the ingredients in a bowl, season to taste and toss to combine well.

Place the mince and ground fennel in a bowl, season and use clean hands to

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combine well, then shape into 6 patties.

Preheat a barbecue hotplate or large frying pan over medium – high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side or until gold and cooked through.

To assemble, place the toasted bun bases on a serving plate, top with a patty, then a little cucumber kimchi and Chinese coleslaw. Top with the bun lids and serve immediately. *Available from Asian grocers. Substitute hot chilli sauce, such as sriracha

Prep time: 15 Mins Cook Time: 1 Hour 5 Mins Serves: 5

Roast Chicken with Lemon Herbs { M AT T M O R A N }

NEED

Lemon and Herb Butter

1.9 kg chicken Salt 1 Lemon, halved 4 garlic cloves 50 ml olive oil

2 teaspoons thyme leaves ½ cup flat leaf parsley leaves 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves 100g unsalted butter, softened 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon

How

This is my tried and true recipe for the best roast chicken you will ever eat.

The herb butter which is placed under the skin, keeps the flesh moist during cooking and also gives the chicken a wonderful fragrance. The lemon halves that are placed in the cavity of the chicken can be taken out, then squeezed over the chicken just before it is served Preheat the oven to 200 deg Celsius To make the lemon and herb butter, chop all the herbs together, then combine with the remaining ingredients.

Season the chicken cavity with salt, then place the lemon halves and garlic into the cavity.

Using your index and middle fingers, gently ease the skin away from the

Prep time: 20 min Cook time: 40 min Serves: 10-12

chicken breast meat, being careful not to break the skin. You just want to create a pocket to push the butter into. Push three quarters of the butter underneath the skin, smoothing down the skin to spread evenly.

Place the chicken in a heavy based roasting pan, spread with the remaining butter and sprinkle generously with salt.

Pour the olive oil into the pan and roast for 20 minutes, basting with the juices several times.

Reduce the oven temperature to 180 deg Celsius and roast for a further 30 minutes or until the juices run clear when a skewer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

Remove from the oven and rest in a warm places for 15 minutes before serving.

Lemon, Polenta and Ricotta Cake { MARK LABROOY}

NEED

110g fine ‘instant’ polenta 200g (2 cups) almond meal 2 teaspoons baking powder pinch of salt 200g unsalted butter, at room temp 180g caster sugar

3 eggs Finely grated rind of 2 lemons 125ml (1/2 cup) lemon juice 250g ricotta Icing sugar to dust Thick cream and berries to serve

How

Preheat the oven to 160 deg Celsius.

Grease a 20cm round cake pan, then line the base with baking paper.

Place the polenta, almond meal, baking powder and salt in a bowl and combine well.

Using an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add the dry ingredients and combine well, 6363

then gradually add the lemon juice. Fold in the ricotta, trying to keep it as chunky as possible.

Bake for 40 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. If you find the top of the cake is browning too quickly, cover loosely with a piece of foil. Stand to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool. Dust the top with icing sugar and serve with thick cream and berries.

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W R I T T E N

ROADTRIP

USA

THE WORD IS OUT ON THE BARBER CULTURE AND THE SPEED OF GROWTH HAS BEEN INCREDIBLE IN MALE GROOMING MARKETS LIKE THE USA, AUSTRALIA AND THE UK. BARBERS ARE THE ONES FEEDING AND STYLING THE COOL CULTURE AND THE NEW AGE MAN.

B Y :

S E A N

I

E D W A R D S

know we can’t keep saying the word hipster too loud as no one really admits to being a hipster, (plus the word is TOTALLY overused, right? – Jimbo), but they are still multiplying and not going away, as some have predicted. I think there needs to be better terminology for the new age male who’s starting to care about his appearance. It’s easy to take the piss out of a fad, but this trend has created an avenue for men to take care of one another with out being labeled. Tough blokes can now commend each other on their hairstyles and facial hair with out feeling like a big marshmallow.

It’s great news for men’s health. The barbershop culture has reinvented real face to face bonding.

Some of our crew had a recent trip to the USA for The World Beard and Moustache Championships in Portland, and it helped shed some light on the latest market trends in barbering. What we saw was not too different from the Australian market, but the United States, as always, are still the best marketeers, pushing trends to the extreme levels of enjoyment and technology.

As in Australia, beards in the USA are still 66

fashionable and the beard oil companies are springing up all over. One particular company we connected with at the Portland trade show was Gibs Beard Oil. The two business partners - old fishing buddy’s - Mike and Gib, have come up with an oil that smelt good and was easy to apply with the special designed pump applicator. These two bearded dudes saw a gap in the men’s grooming market in the States, and jumped at designing men’s products that a bloke will actually pick up and buy. We have some interesting stories coming in the next issue from these two guys.

Back to the World Beard and Moustache Championships. Jimbo was chosen to be the flag bearer for the event and we got to march around down town Portland with the 300 plus competitors. The event went for two days and had lots of parties attached to the competition, which was great for networking, and our magazine was well received. Jimbo come an impressive fourth place in his category, and I won’t mention my positioning, but it was a crazy and fun experience that we will remember for a long time. The competition was quite intense and

with every beard goes an almighty ego, especially if this wild part of Downtown LA. He did a good job of of the business attracted lots of tourists wanting you are a real world competitor. Serious, fun stuff. taking the scuff marks off our Vans. I only wished I a memento of the Californian coast. The other Our good mate and host, Matt Milletto from Water had my black shiny shoes with me. barbershop we visited, where we were received Avenue Coffee Roasters, took us to some of his Just up the road from Bolt Barbers, we dropped with lots of excitement and hugs, was Venice fave barbershops. One stand out was Rooks into Ross Cutlery, one of the largest and most Barbershop. It is only one block to the famous Barbers. The boys at Rooks, once they could comprehensive barber supply stores in the world. I muscle beach. One of the owners, Luis G, was very understand our slang, treated us to a trim and watched Jimbo go into his happy zone as he looked welcoming and let us explore the old historic shop.

Jimbo scored a cool cap. through the thousands of barber tools for sale.

We loved looking at the great pictures that lit up The Portland barber scene is really setting the The shop started in the 1930’s and brothers Allen the walls with history. standard of cool throughout the States. Again the and Richard Wattenberg have worked the store The trip was a great way to see where an industry marketplace is not dissimilar to our culture. since 1962. The store is huge, with over 3500 feet is heading, and America, being such Our travels also took us for a few a large populated country, is great days to Los Angles where we visited to experience many different styles Bolt Barbers. It was a bit of a sad THE EXPERIENCE TURNED A HAPPY CORNER WHEN WE GOT and operations. The other thing is, shock to hear the owner Mohawk TO CATCH UP WITH RICHIE THE BARBER, FAMOUS FOR HIS many of the major suppliers are in Matt had passed away. We had a F U L LY TA T T O O E D C LO W N FA C E . R I C H I E I S O N E O F T H E great time with him a year ago and the States and it was great to see MOST PHOTOGRAPHED BARBERS IN THE WORLD AND WE he was so excited about his new the innovation that is also getting HOPE TO SEE HIM IN AUSTRALIA NEXT YEAR. store opening in Vegas. Life is short, applied to men’s grooming. There is RIP Matt. It’s a shame to see such a huge investment going into this a passionate innovator of world marketplace by suppliers, as men start to make of selected stock. Richard took us through a rare barbering leave us. grooming purchases for themselves. To have this collection of reusable razors. They have become The experience turned a happy corner when we got information directly from suppliers about industry quite collectable and most are still for sale, even to catch up with Richie the Barber, famous for his growth is very rewarding and inspiring for us as an fully tattooed clown face. Richie is one of the most though you feel like you are looking in a museum. educational publication, to keep up the research The last day was pretty hot so we headed from photographed barbers in the world and we hope to and keep reporting it to our growing numbers of downtown LA to the beach and checked out two see him in Australia next year. Bolt Barbers is being reinventing barbers. of Venice Beach’s famous barbers.

The first was taken care of by Ohre Kilpatrick who got passionate Thanks to the organisers of The World Beard and Old Glory Barbers and Tattoo Store, just off the about the trade by hanging around with this cool Moustache Championships for your hospitality. famous Abbot Kinney Street. There was a pretty bunch of guys. His eyes lit up when we talked Congratulations to the overall winner; Madison cool old 1940’s low rider sports car parked out the about how great the Aussie industry was. You can’t Rowley with an incredible garibaldi! Check out his go into Bolt Barbers with out getting a shoeshine. I front, making the scene look like it was straight was too scared to ask old mate the shoe shiner his victory from the Remmington for Men facebook out a Hollywood gangster movie. The shop was a name, as this giant man also doubles as security in cool hangout for young guys and the Tattoo side page.

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HOW

bE Ar DS W OR lD ARE CHANGING THE

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Photography courtesy of Hannah Allen Photography

The humble beard. It’s really made a come back, right chaps? These days, facial hair is more than just a ravishing fashion statement, it’s changing the world. Here’s how.

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wo guys. One Year. Not a razor in sight. If it was a movie it could be called ‘The Year We Became Men’. But it wasn’t a movie. It was a fine gesture for charity by Canberra lads, Chris Justice and Aaron Gallagher. One a struggling student and the other an apprentice carpenter, they decided to use the only resource they could see at hand to raise money for Compassion Australia, a sponsorship based Christian charity for children and families living in poverty. They called it YEARD for Compassion.

Chris and Aaron both already sponsored children through Compassion and decided they wanted to do more to help. ‘What we love about Compassion is that the vast majority of money goes directly to the child,’ explained Chris. ‘It doesn’t stop there though, the money is used to help the child’s family and the greater community. 60% of

the money we raised went directly to the community of Solo in Indonesia and the other 40% went to emergency funding for Indonesia.’

The guys raised the money through a crowd funding site, specifically for charities and important causes, called Everyday Hero (everydayhero.com.au). In the end, they raised over $5000. Such a simple gesture, such a huge impact on the lives of a community struggling with poverty. Chris also travelled to Solo and saw the work Compassion was doing in the community first hand.

One of the unexpected benefits for Chris was the instant street cred he received because of his manly beard. ‘Guys on the street, they gave me instant respect, all because of my beard. It was a great conversation starter and it helped spread the word about Compassion, which was the most 69

rewarding thing.’

Aaron was only married for a week when he started growing his beard. His wife wasn’t thrilled but got used to the idea and patiently waited the year out, remembering it was all for a good cause.

With the YEARD for Compassion now over and clean shaven faces becoming the order of the day once again, the two men (former men?) are now suffering from a condition they call ‘Shadow Beard’, a disorder where one attempts to grab and stroke one’s beard only to find it no longer exists. The remedy is simple. Stop shaving. We suggested this to Chris but he seemed hesitant to comply, feeling it wouldn’t be acceptable now that he works in the corporate world. We think he should start a new trend.

Consider sponsoring a child through Compassion.

TATTOOS

CoFfeE I WAS 25 WHEN I GOT MY FIRST TATTOO. I REMEMBER EVERYTHING ABOUT IT. WHERE I WAS, WHAT THE PARLOUR SMELT LIKE, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY HOW COOL I FELT. EVEN COOLER WHEN I SETTLED ON A CELTIC BUTTERFLY IN THE SMALL OF MY BACK, CLASSY I KNOW.

he thing is, that first tattoo felt like I’d branded myself for the whole world to see and to judge me. I contemplated what would people think, what would my family say and what if people didn’t like it? It was a time in my life when those opinions seemed very relevant.

Fast forward to today, five tattoos and counting and I’m wondering how important these drawings are and how they fit into my life now.

There was a time when heads would turn more often than not at the ink brandished man who swaggered past in leather pants and fitted tee. There weren’t many retailers, or frontline hospitality employees who rolled up their sleeves to show off their latest sailor jerry or sugar skull tattoo.

Taking the step to move to Melbourne was a big choice for me, and while I never questioned whether I’d fit in I do remember being nervous on my first job interview. I arrived at a quaint cafe,

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big nervous smile with a slight consciousness to the writing on my arm. Coming from a more sheltered upbringing and conservative town I always hoped that my visible tattoo wouldn’t be my undoing in signing an employment contract.

But really, what bearing does a tattoo have on being able to do a job?

The cafe industry certainly has gained a momentum of change over the past 5 years at least. Not only have new techniques, methods and ideals been introduced but a rebirth of baristas, a new breed so to speak seems to have settled over cafés everywhere. A new and serious profession has come to light and I’m noticing a uniform amongst some of the best. It seems that our role as a baristas is validated by the show of tattoos. Even providing confidence in the job you’ll do. This is not limited to tattoos, but an alternative flair for creative piercings and rough bristly beards. This has prompted me to ask the question, have we become prejudice against who 70

makes our coffee?

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that coffee changed my life. Even while torturing that poor first jug of milk late one night on a dodgy espresso machine, I knew that this was my calling. If there is one thing that I notice in this caffeinated wonderland, it’s a beautiful thing that I try to never leave home without. It’s called passion. An unmistakeable heartbeat at the very core of what drives so many to master the art of being a barista. This little gem shines in the silky latte art and dialled in perfection of espresso extraction, cultivating an art that enables self expression without ideals of having to fit into some sort of mould. We are creating a profession that is something for everyone, perhaps even going so far as to say that it can morph into anything you like.

We do have a tendency to make assumptions about someone based on our first impression.

This first instinct you could call it sets the scene

TATTOOS

CoFfeE

for our expectations of what happens next. Based on experiences, upbringing and society’s influence our internal opinions take shape in creating an impact on our choices. It can be said that what stirs someone on the inside is what attracts them on the outside. As a thought though, think about what happens for you when trying to find a great coffee in unfamiliar surroundings. Looks trendy, good machinery and a couple of hipsters out the front. Upturned milk crates, Edison light globes and perhaps a well placed chemex or cold drip. How many of you glance up to see who the anticipated barista is? Would we think it strange if they were wearing a business suit?

Is there a uniform that inspires us to say, yes I’ll order coffee here. Are we eternal optimists when we search for a coffee and purchase it from a corner deli? I had the pleasure of speaking to Nick, owner of Moka Pot cafe in Balwyn Victoria who has been in the business for over 50 years.

Propped up with a newspaper in the corner of the busy establishment I catch a smile as I wander over to sit with him. He gives me a slightly puzzled look, “What happened to your hair?” he announces with a knitted brow in my general direction. I badly stifle a laugh and with a twist of my blue locks I mumble something about not being boring or predictable. After being invited into the cosy table space an espresso and piccolo arrive and the conversation flows freely.

‘I studied Accounting when I was young,’ he begins, ‘and once I finished my degree my father asked me what I was going to do. Well I was going to be an accountant of course until my father asked me why was I going to work in a job where I’d only be paid the same amount every week.

Be your own boss, I remember him saying, make your own money for your future. So I did.” He sits back in his chair with a shrug of his shoulders and a wave of his hand, ‘56 years later and look what I’ve got.’ I speak to Nick about how much change he’s seen over the years, and how he would have employed and interviewed so many different people. I ask him what influences him during an interview and do tattoos and piercings play a part in hiring.

‘How I grew up is a big part of me now and I carry those same values with me today. As for business I think every owner is creating a place that fits a certain idea for a certain crowd. I usually steer away from outward piercings and tattoos, I have older customers who come in here who are not used to that. Every suburb has their signature, and knowing who we are wanting to serve makes a bearing on what we asked for from our employees.’

‘I interviewed a girl the other day, piercings in her face and assorted tattoos. I was impressed with her experience’ his voice trails off. I didn’t expect him to say what he did next. ‘I told her I’ll call her, and I will, who knows, maybe she could do a much better job than all of us.’

I wanted a broad opinion on this topic so I did what I know how to do best, turn to my facebook family. A wonderful eclectic mix of coffee professionals from all types of businesses who I knew I could honestly ask if tattoos, beards and piercings influence your choice in hiring a barista.

I heard people say that the most important thing was passion for your craft, a friendly confident disposition that provides a high quality customer experience with their attitude and ability. We 71

also plan to hit and attract a certain market, every establishment is wanting to accomplish something different. What did strike me from the overwhelming amount of comments was while we cannot conclusively say we are not influenced to some degree by appearance we also view a much bigger picture. To quote one of my friends, ‘That extends well beyond ink and piercings and all the way into the simple things like if they smile, if they hold themselves confidently and if they engage with you as another human being.’

This leads me to believe that we are true to the cup, that if our self expression spills onto our skin it’s just another way of allowing creativity to flourish. It reminds me of one of my favourite quotes.

‘Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels.

The troublemakers. The round pegs in square holes. The ones who see things differently.... because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.’ I am left with no doubt in my mind that all anyone wants from a barista is someone who makes every single cup with as much love as they would make their own. Even when they are tired, when the day has been long or the weather too cold. Even when asked for a weak decaf short macchiato with soy. Maybe all we want is a place to call home, and when you wrap your hands around another cup of coffee nothing else matters but how that translates into your cup.

About the author Candy Weiss is a self-confessed coffee addict. Her passion for the craft has spanned over 14 years and has seen her in a variety of different roles.

Candy currently resides in Melbourne.

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AMERICAN BARBERING

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At the exciting new barbering tr

One night per week over 3 week

Stage 1 – Introduction to barb 18 August, 25 August, 1 Septem

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Stage 4 – Designer barbering 27 October, 3 November, 10 No For more information contact: Luby Hastings Sydney TAFE Ph 02 9335 2329 SI.barbering@tafensw.edu.au www.sydneytafe.edu.au

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2 7/2 8 M a r c h 2 0 1 5 P O RT M ACQ UA R I E N SW B LU E S & B B Q F E ST I VAL

FOR EN T RY AND P RIZE INF ORM ATI ON VI SI T w w w.t hecu t t hr oatjou rnal .com 74

SHAVING TIPS WITH DAVID MORTON

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WHILE GROOMING IS NOT COMPLICATED, DAVID MORTON HAS A FEW SIMPLE RULES THAT WILL HELP OUR CUTHROAT JOURNAL READERS TO GET A GREAT SHAVE. A good shave must be done when both the face and beard are warm and moist.

A barber will always sit a hot towel on your face for about five minutes before the shave. You can get exactly the same effect by shaving right after the shower or as many guys do, in the shower.

A

Chivalry. What happened to it? Well it’s pretty obvious that it is completely dead.

Yes, rigor mortis has set in and it seems it cannot be revived. Or can it?

nd why is it dead? What happened to pulling out the chair from under the table?

Or opening the door? Or standing to one side to let the lady through first?

A

Is it the pressure of modern society and the need to survive? In an era where both partners are juggling full time work and young kids, have we lost the ability to be truly caring to one another? In the blinkered race to some perceived finish line, it seems we have forgotten to enjoy the journey.

Don’t get me wrong, I admire what women have done to free themselves from the oppressive shackles of prejudice. They have fought hard and still fight for equal footing and kudos to them. But just once maybe it would be nice to do a factory reset and go back to a simpler time. A time when it was acceptable to insist on picking up something that seemed a bit heavy and not risk getting your ear chewed off.

But maybe women still desire men to act in a chivalrous and courteous manner. The only reason we don’t half the time is because we’re

confused and dare I say it, a little scared.

Yes, ever since Germaine Greer deemed equality as mere assimilation, we have been afraid to open the door and stand to one side or vacate the last seat on the bus to allow them to sit. And that friends, is a tragedy for society and our future generations.

2. I would recommend using pre shave oil (just a bit) for extra skin protection and easy razor glide. Then use a high quality shave crème or gel. Obviously for the best shave, a brush is highly recommended.

For home use I would recommend getting your hands on a good quality badger brush, it will last a lifetime. (Please don’t mess around with a cheap brush. You will only be dissatisfied after a while, if not immediately). You should ensure you get a good lather on the face if you are using a lathering product. The use of a brush will aid this lathering process, and also help lift the beard.

If you are not using a brush, use your hands and fingers to lather up.

In the rush for fairness and equality for all, we’ve forgotten to teach values such as respect, humility and honesty. Never mind who gets up on the bus, or who walks out the door first, maybe that stuff really doesn’t matter.

Maybe we just need to watch out for each other. Maybe getting that job should be celebrated because you were more qualified, not because of your sex. And no, just because I want to pay for the meal, doesn’t make me a condescending jerk.

3. Now for the shave itself. Never, never, never, run your blade against the natural grain (direction) your beard grows in. Always go with the grain. If you don’t do this you will develop ingrown hairs, bumps, pimples or razor burn -guaranteed.

Roddy Donegan is founder and director of Barberco, Australia’s leading online barber wholesaler www.barberco.com.au

4. Go for the glide not the pressure.

If you find that your beard grain changes direction, run your blade

(Sorry ladies, he’s taken – Helen, sub-ed) 75

sideward across the grain. Also if you want that bit extra after you have shaved with the grain, you can run the blade over those little scratchy bits with a sideways motion.

5. A lot has been said about whether to wash the face before or after shaving. It is my own personal belief that it is not overly important.

What is really important, is that you use a mild face wash formulated specifically for men.

6. Every time we shave we automatically exfoliate and as a result, your skin is tender (even if you don’t think so.).It is really important to use an After Shave balm. Under no circumstances use a product that has alcohol as a main ingredient. Do not use those old fashioned after shave tonics that sting the face. Instead use an Alum Block and/or an after shave balm/ moisturiser to keep your skin in great condition.

7. If you already suffer from ingrown hairs, a razor bump repair product is a must in order to get your beard back under control. Just dab a small amount right on the ingrown hair and soon that problem will be history.

8. While not a direct part of the shaving régime, I would also recommend the use of a daily moisturiser. Personally I use an Oil Free Moisturiser with SPF 15 for that extra bit of sun protection.

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Christmas entertainment THE

{ MUSIC, BOOKS & MOVIES}

CUTTHROAT

JOURNAL

CHRISTMAS

Favourites

Christmas { MICHAEL BUBLE}

Picture it. The roast is in the oven, the beer’s in the esky and the rich, velvety tones of The Boob (aka Michael Buble) are singing Christmasy things from his ‘Christmas’ album in your general direction from your ipod dock. Perfect scenario? We think so.

Silent night Christmas Music for Cat lovers

A Very She & Him Christmas

{ C H R I S T M A S C A R O L C AT S }

{ SHE & HIM}

This is legit a thing. This is a cd where cats can be heard singing Silent Night. And you can BUY it. You should buy it. It’s had 2 rave reviews on Amazon. ‘...this is fun. I think you have a hot idea. The track of cats is excellent.” Michael Roy Entertainment Group, Canada. “What a great idea! I love it! My cats love it! Lol” Angel Davis, CEO, Sheheshe Music Services. Totes Lol Angel! And itunes raves, stating ‘We have not received enough ratings to display an average for this album.’ You can’t go wrong.

So Zooey Deschanel. She’s cute and funny, has a hit TV show (The New Girl) – and she can sing. Greedy.

Zooey Deschanel is greedy. But, she’s put together a fun and feel good holiday album with her musical sidekick M. Ward. This has a nostalgic Christmas feel.

Play it on Christmas Eve, Christmas lights glowing, with a glass of Bailey’s in your hand. If you dare.

Christmas offerings { T H I R D D AY }

You may not have heard of these guys, but they’re giants in the Christian music scene. If you’re into the spiritual meaning of this good season then no one does it better than Third Day. A little bit rock, a little bit country and a lot of God type goodness to sink your teeth into.

merry christmas, baby { R O D S T E WA R T }

80

New Years Eve { ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK}

Stop thinking about yourself for once. What about your mum? Why don’t you think of her with a copy of Rod Stewart’s Merry Christmas, Baby? You’ll make her day totally merry and bright and could reap the benefits with an extra helping of her special Christmas trifle. So anyways, you really are still thinking about yourself. It’s just very subtle.

Enough about Christmas already. It’s time to party like it’s New Year’s Eve with ‘New Years Eve’, the soundtrack from the original Motion Picture ‘New Years Eve’. Get your resolutions written, party the night away, or don’t, and get ready for your best, healthiest, wealthiest, loved up, happiest, most rewarding and fulfilling year yet. Go you!

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{ MUSIC, BOOKS & MOVIES}

THE

CUTTHROAT

JOURNAL

Favourites

NationAL Lampoons Christmas Vacation

Skipping Christmas { JOHN GRISHAM}

Whether you love it or loathe it, you may have at sometime thought about not doing Christmas, just once.

That’s the premise of John Grisham’s ‘Skipping Christmas’. Luther and Nora Crank decide to go on a Caribbean cruise instead of doing Christmas.

Who knew Grisham had a sense of humour?

{ JIMBO’S PICK}

A must watch on Jimbo’s viewing list at Christmas.

Follow the trials and tribulations of Clark Griswald as he celebrates Christmas with his family and nervously awaits the arrival of his Christmas bonus cheque.

It’s a movie for sure.

Letters from Father Christmas

Home Alone { D AV E ’ S P I C K }

{ J.R.R TOLKIEN}

Poor little Kevin gets left behind as his family rushes out the door for their Christmas vacation. If you haven’t seen it, what the heck have you been doing at Christmas all these years?

Watch it with your kids, there’s some great lessons on learning to appreciate your parents and family, so really rub that one into them.

Letters from Father Christmas is a compilation of letters, written and illustrated by J. R. R. Tolkien over a 20 year period for his children, from Father Christmas. A must read for youngens and oldies alike. BEST DAD EVER!

A christmas carol { CHARLES DICKENS}

A NOVEL ABOUT A WRETCHED OLD MAN AND BOSS, EBENEEZER SCROOGE...

CHRISTMAS

Christmas entertainment

Even after being pipped for the lead role of Ebeneezer Scrooge by Toni Hawker (no relation to Tony Hawk, we already asked) in my year 6 play, I still have a soft spot for A Christmas Carol. At least I got to do a spooky voice as ‘the ghost of Christmas past’ (lame). A novel about a wretched old man and boss, Ebeneezer Scrooge, whose heart is softened when he is taken into his past, his present and future as he sleeps, and is horrified to see how his life may end, and the adverse effects it could have on his employees family if he doesn’t change his wicked, scroogey ways.

The family Stone { HELEN’S PICK}

An actual grown ups Christmas movie with a great cast. One to watch with your lady. Lots of tears along with feel good moments, awkward conflict, relationship swapping, tears (worth another mention) and reconciliation. A winner for sure.

81

B A R B E R

R E V I E W S

chop shop

Review

Guys Grooming Guys Grooming was born out of a need for men to have their own comfortable environment to enjoy expert grooming with fantastic service. Nathan Ahern and Leycester Cory had a taste of what service and style for men looked like in Europe and knew that Australian men were missing out. Too many businesses in this industry were focusing on women or only offering men an abbreviated or unisex service.

With a background in service and business, these great mates decided to create the ultimate grooming experience from scratch, to cater for the growing male grooming market.

‘We focused on the whole grooming experience, not just the hair. Men’s skin, body and hair all need attention and everyone has a different focus, so why not cater for all the important parts of grooming.’

‘We were also conscious that we needed to cater for all men, not just the corporate business man and early adopters but also the students, the tradesmen and the retirees.’

‘There seems to be mixed messages in the barber industry. Some see the barber as a cheap, quick, no nonsense fix to the annoying problem of hair

growing, while others look forward to their visit and can see value in the time and care taken by their barber.

As a business. we needed to reinforce the point that presentation is important, great hair skills are highly valued and take years to learn, and that the end result is something that will reflect the clients personality and confidence.’

Nathan and Leycester focus on all aspects of the business every day of the year, but put special emphasis on customer service, quality control, operational systems and presentation. If you look after the main pillars of the business then it supports the rest.

Recently awarded the City of Perth Customer service award and AHIA Barber Business of the year; Guys Grooming has achieved these accolades by striving to deliver great grooming with exceptional service on a daily basis. Clients need consistency and reliability. If they can rely on you every day of the year then why would they go anywhere else?

Guys Grooming remains unique in that it is completely focused on men and committed to grooming in the true sense of the word.

2A JAQUES AVE, BONDI BEACH NSW 2026 (02) 9130 3684

Bondi locals need to be groomed on a regular basis. This is where the long established Chop Shop comes into play. This icon has been the go to place for the Bondi man for over ten years. The Chop Shop barber side of the business is starting to take over the original salon, that owner Dan Dixon started ten years ago with a small loan from his late grandmother. The shop is more than a barbershop. Half of the Jaque Street building is an award winning salon, and when you walk through the side door between the two shops you enter the barbershop.

The nice thing about this business is if you want more than a cut and a shave, you can get extras like a colour in a private room. avoiding the normal barber banter.

The shop has recently been renovated, with another two chairs put into a separate room behind the main space. The fit out is pretty cool with some bikes hanging from the ceiling and a few random carved cattle skulls. There is a pretty neat wall of iconic photos which will keep

844/848 HAY ST, PERTH WA 6000 (08) 9226 3022

82

you amused whilst waiting.

Bondi has a large mix of different cultures and the Chop Shop seems to be a favorite place for the male English backpacker, especially the day I visited. The barber on duty on the day I visited was a London boy, and was up to date with the latest UK trends and seemed to have a good following.

Bondi Beach is an international location for world fashionistas and Dan has done a great job capturing two completely different markets without diluting his business approach. You can just get a cool cut off the bench or if you want something special you can book a consultation and go the full hog.

This Bondi Chop Shop has won many awards and is involved with many of the big brand male grooming suppliers. They often service many PR and photo shoots for this medium. I also spied a famous Australian Rock star sitting in the line waiting for a trim, very predictable for Sydney coolest beachside suburb.

B A R B E R

R E V I E W S

Review

THE SPOT

751E GUN HILL RD, BRONX, NY 10467 (718) 708-4337

dr snippys Dr Snippy is a favourite location for the stylish gent in Perth. The day I visited the shop was full of blokes having a good time just killing time. And having a laugh and a few cold beers. The owner, Clint Ariti, has put a lot of energy to get the right vibe in his business, and prides himself as a skilled barber. He creates masterpieces on every client who passes by his chair. He is known well by the small rockabilly movement in WA as the style master for anything fifties in a hairstyle. He does the lot - fades, flat tops and is a master of the Cutthroat Razor. The shop does lots of shaves and is a very popular place to go as this culture is growing.

The shop itself has some pretty cool touches, like a working space invader console and black and white checkered old school flooring. The retro furniture gives the fifties feel to the design, which fits into many of the haircuts the boys deliver in the barbershop. I loved the original 1960 Blue Lady prints that adorned a few of the walls, adding that bit of old school barber touch.

I had some good conversation

Most residents and visitors to NYC overlook the Bronx for Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens. But it’s still a place with rich culture and history.

It’s the birthplace of hip hop, has fantastic food cooked by Caribbean immigrants and, most importantly, has some really wonderful barbershops.

The Spot, my barber shop of choice on Gun Hill Road in the heart of the borough, is where my barber Renso works. When I walk through the door, I’m always greeted by lively music and a friendly crowd of men waiting to get their hair cut.

From his station in the corner, Renso exudes patience and grace. He manages to keep up with the lively conversations in the shop without ever making you feel like he isn’t paying attention to his clients. When it’s my turn, he calls me over and

whilst I was there with Clint, about where he would like to see the barber industry go in Australia. He was very passionate about training and keeping tradition alive and giving young barbers the proper skills to become a style master like him with the scissors. Clint, like many other barbers around Australia, are challenged in finding enough skilled barbers, leaving him to do a lot of the jobs himself. The familiar story of putting himself personally under demand. Perth does have an unusual amount of young men with large disposable incomes wanting to look good due to the booming mining industry in the west. Barbershops are becoming the go to places for these guys, especially between work travels of fly in fly out mining shifts.

What really got me excited was the great attitude of the team at Dr Snippy. They were excited about my visit and I loved what they were doing. This is a real boys place which is getting rarer to find, but worth the effort to visit and hang out. I can’t wait to visit when I get back to Perth and jump back in the chair for a trim.

204 HAY ST, SUBIACO WA 6008 (08) 9381 3590

83 83

steps back to take me in. You can see the gears turning in his head as he decides what kind of cut is going to make me look my best.

More than anything, Renso’s a great human. He has an easy sense of humor, engaging personality and you can tell he cares deeply about his craft. When you get a cut from him, you feel like he’s part of your team.

He’s been especially great with keeping my beard looking sharp. I decided to grow my beard out last year and he’s never once pressured me to shave it. I get compliments constantly on how well groomed my beard looks, so it’s easy for me to put my complete trust in him. The icing on the cake: He always uses a few drops of The Barba beard oil, made right here in the Bronx, to give my beard some extra shine.

{ INTERVIEW}

MArK BERETTA

84

W h e n w e s p o k e t o M a r k Be r e tt a o ve r t h e pho n e, he wa s s i t t i n g b a ck i n a mo t el roo m i n Melb ourn e and, we ’ re n o t b ra g g i ng , b u t h e w a s r a vi ng a b o u t T he C ut t hro a t J ourn a l. I t ’s a lwa y s surpri si n g t o s peak to a c e l e b rit y wh o s p e nd s t h e fi r s t fi ve m i nu t es o f t he co n v ersa t i o n t elli n g y o u ho w much he lov es w hat y o u ’re d o in g , a nd no t g e t t i ng d o w n t o th e b usi n ess of t a lk i n g a b o ut t hemselv es s t ra i ght a wa y . T hat’s w h a t w e c a l l g e tt i ng o ff o n t h e r i g h t fo o t hey . Wha t a g uy , a n d we a pprec i a t ed t he k udos en ormou sly.

ut enough about us. This Mark Beretta guy. You can catch him weekday mornings on channel 7’s Sunrise exchanging witty banter with his co workers, flashing that wholesome white grin and just you know, reading the sport and stuff. In fact, if you’re watching any sport on channel 7, you’ll probably see or hear him on there.

Or at least he’s probably watching it. It seems sport just oozes out of every orifice of his being. But not in a gross zombie oozing way. He just loves the stuff. But not in a grunting, scratching nuts sort of way (hasn’t been verified). Sport really float’s Mark Beretta’s boat, you catch our drift?

B

I kept at it,’ he says.

He kept at it alright! Mark went on to represent Victoria 16 times and competed in 10 Australian championships. He was runner up at the Singapore International Masters and also held a US trick skiing record. These days he jokes that he holds the record for oldest, fattest guy on skis doing a back flip.

So skiing champion, check. Now what to do? Mark started his media career in radio on 3GL Geelong whilst he was completing an engineering degree at Swinburne Uni. He’s really a guy who knows what he wants to do, works damn hard, and sort of bugs people until they let him do it. That’s how

there, poolside. ‘I pinch myself most days’, he says, ‘at these amazing life experiences I get to be apart of.’

His only gripe in life is the 3.30 starts which leaves him battling fatigue most days.

Outside of television, Mark loves his charity work, which again involves sport. Mark does something called the Tour De Cure, which is a charity bike ride raising money for cancer research, treatment and prevention. Next year will be his 6th ride for the charity, which involves doing a 1500km bike ride for 10 days. It’s not without it’s perils, as he experienced 2 years ago, when he got knocked off his bike…by a kangaroo. So

OUTSIDE OF TELEVISION, MARK LOVES HIS CHARITY WORK, WHICH AGAIN INVOLVES SPORT. MARK DOES SOMETHING CALLED THE TOUR DE CURE, WHICH IS A CHARITY BIKE RIDE RAISING MONEY FOR CANCER RESEARCH, TREATMENT AND PREVENTION.

Beretta grew up near Geelong, Victoria, in a place called Whittington. Living just 1 km from the Barwan River, his family – his mum, dad and two younger brothers, spent each weekend water skiing. Mark was only four, and couldn’t swim, when his dad chucked him into the river for his first ski.

Mark laughs, ‘We were the only family in Geelong to ski all year round. When it was freezing in Winter, you’d find us on the river.

All the other families were driving past keeping warm in their cars on their Sunday outing. I’m sure they thought we were crazy.’ Crazy families are the best!

Mark grew to be a champ in the waterskiing world. From his first taste of doing a jump off a ramp at ski camp when he was eight, he was hooked. ‘It was daunting, 5 foot, but I liked it straight away, it was a lot of fun so

he got started in TV. He hounded Eddie McGuire until he helped get him a job at Channel 10 commentating the basketball.

Then in 1995 Channel 7 offered him a job.

‘Working hard and going after what I want is the only way I know,’ explains Mark. ‘If you have a passion for TV, ask for what you want, just go for it.’ It’s certainly worked in Mark’s case.

Ok, now this next bit might give you goosies or shivers. Mark’s career highlights are enviable and outrageously familiar.

Remember when Cathy Freeman won the 400m at the Sydney Olympics, the most watched TV moment in Australian history?

So does Beretta, he was there, hosting.

Oh and that time when Keiran Perkins won the 1500 metre freestyle at the 1996 Olympics from lane 8? Mark Beretta was W R I T T E N

B Y :

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G L E E S O N

Aussie. ‘He ran into the side of me and then I rolled down the hill with him. I lost all the skin off my backside and took 2 hours off in a car. But I finished the rest of the ride’. Of course you did awesome person.

Keeping healthy is an important part of his lifestyle and he works hard, doing some form of exercise everyday, from weights, to circuit to bike rides.

And then there’s the exercise of rummaging through drawers to find chocolate and the raising of the Snickers to his mouth.

A chocolate addict he is. Self confessed.

Unashamedly.

A vice, at last. But we can hardly hold it against him. Acutally, he’s totally going on our Christmas card list this year. True story.

Thanks for the chat Mark!

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GROWING UP IN ITALY IN THE MID 1960’S, MY FATHER WOULD ALWAYS REMIND ME THAT NO MATTER HOW TOUGH THINGS WERE, YOU SHOULD ALWAYS TRY TO TREAT YOURSELF TO A SHOE POLISH AND A FACE SHAVE. THOSE WORDS ALWAYS STUCK WITH ME, WHICH BECAME ONE OF THE INFLUENCES IN HOW MY CAREER AS A BARBER STARTED. THAT WAS REALLY THE START OF ALPHA BARBERS.

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ike any young man with an older sibling, I grew up admiring my older brother, Carmelo, who became a hairdresser.

My dad set up a small hairdressing studio in the garage and he would cut all his friends hair. I would sit and watch. At the time it was just a thrill to be around the older boys. Who knew this was one day going to be my passion. While my brother was cutting hair I was playing soccer and reached the national league level representing the Australian under 17’s. So after high school, I tried to continue my sporting career and was given great opportunities. I soon realised however, that this was not going to be my long-term career path. My brother, Carmelo, encouraged me to complete a hairdressing course. So I did.

Once qualified, I was fortunate enough to work with some amazing people and at some of the most prestige salons, but I didn’t really enjoy all aspects of the hair salon. Washing out colour, blow waving, waiting on appointments - it wasn’t me. During this time my brother had moved to London. He was managing multiple salons, but by 2007 he left hairdressing and started working as a barber in Melbourne. After having enough of

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salons and hairdressing, I too decided to take on a barbering position at ‘Barber on Central’, now known as ‘Alpha barbers’. Working in the heart of the city I started to understand that my passion was in mens grooming and managing a business that suited what most males are about – no appointments and reasonable pricing. The number of people who would come in and request a face shave amazed me, which was not something we offered at the time. Although I worked as a barber I did not consider myself one until I mastered this technique. This is where the other strong influence in my career, my father, came into play. My father knew some older Italian barbers, so I decided to make myself known to them and asked them to show me this dying art. They were so overwhelmed that I wanted to learn this skill, as barbering was becoming a lost trade and maybe not really respected by the hairdressing industry. They were always ready to teach and never turned me away if they were busy. These skilled barbers would explain techniques to me as they treated their clients. This is something I have carried with me to this day, not only the skill set, but the friendly and inviting approach to anyone who walks through the door, customers or staff.

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