Benny - Issue 06 Summer 2021/22

Benny

ISSUE 06 / SUMMER 21 – 22

FREE

FOR LOCALS & VISITORS ALIKE

Molly Picklum

Time For A Roadie

Spooked Kooks

Molly chats first waves, best waves and board of choice.

It’s been long overdue - but this summer? We. Are. On.

A sustainability driven surf company? Yes please!

B E N N Y S U P P LY C O . C O M . A U

© 2021 Studio Benny

CONTRIBUTORS

The information contained in Benny Magazine is

Nat alie Wabbis

given in good faith and believed to be accurate

Editor in Chief, Creative Director & Founder

at time of printing.

Jess Moroney The contents of this publication are subject

Benny Eats Out

to copyright and cannot be reproduced in any shape or form without written consent from

Rosie Maidman

Studio Benny or Benny Supply & Co.

Weekend Warrior

hello@studiobenny.com.au

Thomas Hobbs

www.bennysupplyco.com.au

Sustainable Future Series

Benny Supply & Co

Luke Foster

Central Coast, NSW

Melodious Haze

Australia Heath Crawley Tiki Picks S&P Wabbis Proofreaders Publication designed by Natalie Wabbis.

Cover image by @fromabove.images

EDITORIAL

IN THIS ISSUE

We Are Back!

Finally, here we are – back in print! Hopefully we didn’t disappoint too many last issue going online only – we weren’t too happy about it ourselves! But the time has come for us to be back on the coast (and Newy) in print, and we couldn’t be more excited!

This issue is jam packed full of that summery goodness you’ve been looking forward to for the past nine months. Something for the foodies, the surfers, the adventurers, the eco– warriors and the musos – you’re going to absolutely love it!

Yes, we may be back in print, but if you don’t want to miss out on an issue of Benny – simply subscribe to our newsletter on our website and you’ll be the first to know when we launch each and every issue. Plus, you’ll be the first to know of new Benny Supply & Co products and sales! We’re as simple as that – Benny mag, new products and sales; nothing else!

Molly Picklum

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Molly chats about her board of choice, top waves and her local spot.

Weekend Warrior

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The perfect long weekender taking us just a few hours up the road.

Sustainable Surfboards

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One last thing. A huuuuuge thank you to our writers and also our advertisers who got on board with us for this issue to ensure Benny was able to be printed – the real heroes.

benny

Spooked Kooks give us an insight into their sustainably made softboards.

Grant Molony

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We dive into the Creative Spotlight with arguably one of the coasts fave artists.

CO N TACT US h e l l o @ s t u d i o b e nny.co m . au A DVERT ISE W IT H US h e l l o @ s t u d i o b e nny.co m . au www. b e n nysu p p lyco.co m . au Cover image by @fromabove.images In st ag ra m // @ b e nnysu p p l y.co + @ s t u d i o b e nny Please recycle.

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Shady Palms AVOCA

THIS COASTAL OASIS IS LOCATED AT THE GATEWAY TO AVOCA AND TRULY EMBODIES THE ECLECTIC SURF SHACK VIBE OF HAWAII. THE LUSH GREEN SETTING AND COOL, RETRO DÉCOR REALLY ENCAPSULATES THAT LAID BACK FEEL OF HAWAII AND WITH A VARIETY OF SPACES FOR YOU TO ‘CHILLAX’ IN IS JUST REALLY THE ICING ON THE CAKE THAT IS SHADY PALMS.

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BENNY EATS OUT

Now, let’s get onto this new menu… Fun. Fresh. Zesty. Honestly, the list of adjectives could go on and on. This menu is DIVINE! Jam-packed with flavour and cooked to perfection, the feast that was put before me was beautiful and delicious. Dish after dish swarmed the table and I didn’t know where to start… or finish.

So let’s start with the signature sips from their unique cocktail menus. If you’re after something sweet and zingy you can’t go past the Passion Pit – it’s their “little secret”, but it’s too good to keep it that way. The Shark Punch was another stand out for you tequila lovers; it’s got a sweet vanilla surprise and is dangerously smooth so be prepared to drink A LOT of them. And for my fellow Espresso ‘Tini lovers, you’re safe here! They’re on tap and they’re delicious.

If you’re a seafood fan then you have GOT to try this menu. The Habanero Scallops were a showstopper but on the ‘specials’ menu, so make sure you beg for them to make a regular appearance.

They were smoky, buttery, smooth morsels that I just couldn’t get enough of – order two dishes. It will be worth it. Their Pina Colada Fish Dip won me over; and I am not a massive fan of fish. Think snapper blended into a smooth, dill infused cream cheese spread onto a cracker that is truly *chef’s kiss*. I absolutely could not get enough of this Shady Palms concoction. The Tahitian Tartare was fresh, zesty and smooth and, again, hard to stop eating. And the side salad! (Bear with me, I know it’s not a typical stand out) What a palatable addition! Soba noodles, edamame beans and an Asian slaw – it was just so fresh! We don’t normally make friends with salad, but this was truly the perfect addition to balance out all the beautiful flavours of the main dishes.

Eventually I had to stop eating, but the flavour sensation on offer certainly pushed the stomach to the edge- so you’ll simply have to make a few visits to work your way through the whole menu.

The list goes on and includes so many more tasty, balanced dishes: buttery grilled prawns, crispy seasoned fried squid, rolls with delectable pulled meats, mac and cheese (YUM!), woodfired pizzas, saucy fried chicken, cheese boards… honestly, I’m only scratching the surface. You simply must go and try it all for yourselves.

The truth of the matter is Shady Palms is a coastal hideaway that has something for everyone. It’s suited to all and can cater for a variety of taste buds, eating preferences and allergies. Since it’s opening this place has seriously been ‘a vibe’. Perfect for a late summery lunch or early afternoon hanging with your favourite people, Shady Palms is open Wednesday to Thursday from 4–11pm and Friday – Sunday from midday. Book online through their website or give them a buzz to get yourself a table now!

Shady Palms $$-$$$ 366 Avoca Dr, Kincumber NSW 2251 3

Molly Picklum Q&A

What’s your home break? North Shelly Beach.

RAPID FIRE - THIS OR THAT?

Where is your favourite place to surf in Australia, and why? Home! There is nothing better than waking up in my own bed and going straight down to the water for a morning surf.

1, 2 or 3 fins? 3.

Natural or goofy? Natural.

High or low tide? Mid.

Do you remember your first ever wave? No I don’t, but I do have vivid memories of learning to surf at Scott’s Head with my Dad.

Barrels or airs? Both!

Sunrise or sunset? Sunset.

What board are you currently riding? 5’7 DHD DNA. Longboard or shortboard? Shortboard.

Where is your favourite destination for a surf trip overseas, and why? Indonesia. There are a great variety of waves in close proximity. The food is great and the locals are always very welcoming too.

3–4ft or 8–10ft? 3–4ft is fun but I also love 8–10ft because it’s challenging!

Beachie or point break? Both!

On a scale of 1 – 10, with 10 being the most boring thing ever, how boring is watching the WSL surf ranch event?

3. I enjoy watching the technique of the surfers in that environment and respect the way that they manage the pressure of the situation.

Wave of your life? It was at South Stradbroke Island in 2021.

Stepped off into the wave of the day on a Straddie swell.

What was the best session you’ve ever had – where was the session, and what made it the best? Great question, I don’t think I’ve ever been asked that. I’ve got two that stand out. A session on uncrowded Keramas where I could choose to do barrels, turns and airs – they are the three things I love to do. The other was a session on the Gold Coast trading waves with Mick Fanning.

What does surfing do for you mentally? Keeps me sane and gives me an outlet.

What’s your go to wax? Sex Wax. Do you have any tips for beginners? Spend as much time as you can in the water to feel comfortable and just enjoy being out there, having fun is the most important part of surfing.

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Left or right? 50/50

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If you know someone who would be a great candidate for our next Q&A, please get in touch with us.

Instagram // @picklummolly

Shop the range online at bennysupplyco.com.au

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Instagram // @bennythreads_

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GOT A COUPLE OF DAYS SPARE NEXT WEEK AND FEEL LIKE GOING BUSH?

For many of us it’s been a while and we may have forgotten how to do it. Here’s a little guide to a quick break away around Seal Rocks and Boomerang Beach. Only a couple of hours from the Central Coast, it’s a great entry-level roadie to get your tent legs back and whet your appetite.

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WEEKEND WARRIOR

WEEKEND WARRIOR

Long Weekender

DAY ONE Dust off tent, fill Esky with cold ones, grab the mid-length, jump in car and hit the road with a pit stop for coffees and B&E rolls. Ten minutes later, pull a questionable U–ey and boost home to grab the camp chairs that *someone* forgot to put in the back. Maybe grab a couple more cans on your way out the door.

Round two, set the sat nav to Treachery Camp Ground, turn the playlist up and settle in for the short two hour stint up the coast. Knock the car into 4WD for the final stretch and rumble down the dirt track to the campsite. Keep eyes peeled for sneaky furry friends.

Pick a spot, crack a couple of tins to celebrate arriving.

Consider pitching the tent but decide to check the surf instead. Wander straight over the dunes, spook a few lizards on your way. Surf is small-ish, clean and peeling off the point… go surfing.

Salty, sandy and stoked, return to camp via the Esky. Set up the all-important camp chairs and discuss who’s responsible for pitching the tents. Decide over a couple more beers that odds-on is the only way to settle this. Losers pitch the tents, victors get the fire going. Settle in to the evening laughing about old stories. Decide which spot to hit in the morning.

DRONE IMAGES BY @UNDERTOW_SNAPS

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DAY TWO

DAY THREE

Wake up early thanks to the Kookaburra alarm clock.

Wander down to Tim’s to grab coffees and pastries for the crew. Load the boards on the car and head off to Cellitos Beach, stop off at the mini supermarket to get a quality picnic together.

Kookaburra wakeup call again this morning. Pack up all the kit and hit the road early. Reward yourself with brekky at Kembali Café at Blueys. Cruise up to Boomerang Beach and enjoy a takeaway coffee while you watch the surf from the carpark.

Unload the car and start the walk down the bush boardwalk. Convince yourself that the boardwalk has definitely got longer since you last came… or maybe the Esky has just gotten heavier.

Spend the morning surfing clean-as beach breaks. Finally accept that your arms won’t let you paddle any further and put a dent in the picnic instead. May as well get a cheeky sunbake in while you’re at it. Half an hour later realise that you missed a bit with the sunscreen. Curse the fact that you’ve got to face the drive home with a weird splodge seared into the middle of your back.

Spend the day hooting and hollering through messy shoreys. Finish the session exhausted but grinning.

Start the walk back to the car, at least the Esky’s lighter this time.

On the way back to camp, hook a left and boost down to Lighthouse Beach. Drive to the shoreline and spend a while sitting on the roof watching the sun go down.

Have one of those moments…

Get a few rounds of beach frisbee in. Try your hardest not to get competitive for the sake of your friendship. Have game interrupted by an over-confident Kelpie but accept that he’s a good team player and let him join in.

As the weather starts to turn, decide it’s a good time to head back to the car. On the drive home have a serious internal discussion whether to return home for work in the morning or listen to your inner nomad, relinquish all responsibilities and follow your nose up the coast.

Accept that it’s probably best to keep paying your bills and keep the house. Spend remainder of the journey planning the next trip.

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FILM IMAGES BY @MIRANDAROSEFITZ

SUSTAINABLE FUTURE SERIES

Spooked Kooks SPOOKED KOOKS IS A SUSTAINABILITY DRIVEN SURF COMPANY, TAKING PLASTIC OUT OF THE OCEAN AND PUTTING IT IN THEIR BOARDS. THEIR ETHOS IS BORN OUT OF A LOVE AND RESPECT FOR THE OCEAN.

In 2018 SK bought 10 tonnes of recycled plastic with a view to turning it into the component parts of their softboards. They had no idea how to go about it, but there was no looking back.

After much research, trial and error, they managed to replace all the hard plastic in their softboards with 100% post-consumer recycled plastic waste. This was actual ocean bound trash that was polluting the natural environment.

The recycled plastic SK use is sourced from the Plastic Bank which works with coastal communities in the developing world to collect plastic waste to be recycled, and are remunerated for their efforts in the process which helps to alleviate poverty in those communities.

Spooked Kooks is the first and only softboard company on the planet that uses post-consumer recycled plastic waste in their softboards.

Since successfully incorporating recycled plastic into their softboards, they have looked to improving other aspects of the manufacturing process and packaging, all with a view to minimising the impact of their boards on the environment.

To date, they have used over 7 tonne of recycled plastic waste in their boards and accessories. They have never wrapped their boards in plastic shrink wrap (like all other foamie brands), and recently removed all bubble wrap from the packaging. Also, in an effort to mitigate their CO2 footprint, they plant a mangrove tree for each board they produce.

It was super important for the guys behind Spooked Kooks to be a part of the solution against ocean plastic pollution. They acknowledge they only play a small part in the collective effort but feel that every action towards protecting the natural environment is better than nothing. Just like it’s better to start out small than not start at all. So, they began with what they could afford, as they are entirely self-funded, and looked to improve the way they do things along the way.

They are stoked with all the support they’ve received and to be on this journey having epic times along the way.

www.spookedkooks.com

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Instagram// @spookedkooks

O N L I N E O N LY G E T S U M M E R R E A DY

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL

@ be nnyt hrea ds_

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Grant Molony LONG JETTY, NSW

What’s the most rewarding aspect about your work?

Public art. As soon as you complete it, it isn’t yours anymore.

It takes a life of it’s own and the community takes ownership.

That’s the incredible thing about art as a language.

What do you do to keep yourself motivated? Spend time in the sea and around loved ones.

What piece are you most proud of? I think it’s still to come, which is really nice.

Do you do custom pieces? Absolutely!

Are there any local businesses who stock your art?

Loughlin Furniture Showroom at 305 Manns Rd, Gosford.

Who are you and what do you do? I’m just a kid who likes to make paintings.

How long have you been a creative for? Always I guess, never really stopped since I can remember What is your favourite thing about what you do? The rare feeling when it all clicks and you realise it’s exactly what you should be doing.

Where did you learn to do what you do? Nowhere specific – I didn’t study. Perhaps being stubborn enough not to stop. A high school art teacher that saw something.

Travel. Family and the ocean.

Have you thought about teaching your craft? Yes. I often do workshops in schools and the community.

How long did it take you to turn your craft into a business? I jumped in the deep end at 30 years of age, when my daughter was born.

How did you get started on this journey? I refused to accept the reality of mind numbing work for the rest of my life and wanted to tell myself and family that the whole follow your dream thing is not something that people just say - you actually can.

Do you have any one who helps you out or are you a Lone Ranger? Jason Goulding, long time collaborator and guru of design/timber, and my brother Russ Molony. We all have our own practice, but come together regularly to collaborate – especially on large mural projects where we have found this amazing level of trust and flow.

When did it dawn on you that “wow, this is my job now”?

I still get those moments now after six years or so full time.

Where do you hope your creative future takes you? Just to continue to have the opportunity to tell stories in paint.

Can you share any advice for aspiring creatives? Keep making or doing whatever it is, but do it for yourself first.

What type of art do you like to create most? A balance between murals and studio work.

How has your work changed over time? I’m constantly learning about myself and not being afraid to put real emotion and meaning into the work.

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You can support Grant and his work here: www.grantmolony.com Instagram // @grantmolony

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CREATIVE SPOTLIGHT

MELODIOUS HAZE

Chet Faker ALBUM REVIEW Hotel Surrender 2021

The master of swoon is back, our boy Nick Murphy a.k.a Chet Faker. After hitting the scene with a triumphant debut in 2014 titled Built on Glass, the lad went away from the fruity chillwave mixes we love and released a pair of albums under the name Nick Murphy. These were hardly a pair of pocket aces and thankfully the Chet Faker is back and we hope for the long haul!

Hotel Surrender features everything we have come to adore in the tender beat master from Melbourne. This is the kind of summer essential we need right now, sitting there crushing an ice cold foamy one after a great day in the water. It hits all the right spots, from the outset of the on paced Oh Me Oh My, followed by the gloomy throbs of Low, we have ourselves a double pack of conscious goodness.

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Get High and Whatever Tomorrow carry on the early momentum with absolute aplomb; this is entirely sounding like the early Chet Faker, and respectfully we kinda ask where did Chet go for the past 6 years? Well nonetheless, the move to New York appears to be paying great dividends as the artistry appears well and truly back.

So Long So Lonely tidies things up nicely with some semantic synthesiser driving deep inside even the weariest of ear drums. Our only wish thing here is for the album to finish as hard hitting as it starts out but hey, who are we to complain, Chet Faker is with us again!

6.5/10.

VINYL

Tiki Picks

LORDE SOLAR POWER UNIVERSAL MUSIC, 2021

Does Solar Power allude to our Lorde’s interest in the state of mother earth’s melting polar ice caps? Or, is it more a representation of how a spiritual dose of Vitamin D, in a suburban park, can raise a vibe and level your fear chart?

Probably both. But, in this case, the latter sails.

I hit play and I’m soaking up the rays, thrifting LA and laughing with sunburned friends, in the tall grass’ slo-mo breeze.

This is euphoric, phased-out nostalgia pop and I am Stoned at the Nail Salon again.

CIVIC FUTURE FORECAST FLIGHTLESS RECORDS, 2021

Explosive surf punk-rock from the gutters of municipal Melbourne.

Future Forecast wears it’s heroes on it’s grubby sleeve; Radio Birdman can be heard from the first radiant riff and there’s The Saints, Eternally Yours, complete with Stax’s horns; but the intention here is of respect, not imitation.

Civic’s deftly crafted tunes are of their heroes’ ilk, prolifically reconditioned, then executed with a meatier forearm and an extra key of whip.

Civic have come for your children.

Tiki Picks composed by Heath Crawley of Tiki La La. Shop the Vinyl now - www.tikilala.com.au Instagram// @tiki.la.la 17

thursday

two

one

2 for 1 shady cocktails 12-5pm

sunday $15 six strings jugs

366 avoca dr, kincumber, nsw, 2260