ele HOME Issue 8

ISSUE 8, 2023

HOME Mozambique Magic

Visit

Beautiful Homes from Around the World

$12.95 AUS (inc. GST)

Motel Molly The Luxe Guide to Port Douglas

home . interiors . garden . design

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Life takes you unexpected places, love brings you home. ele HOME

IMAGE: Greg Cox

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HOME editor’s letter It’s our birthday! ele HOME celebrates two years this issue and what an exciting time it has been. We launched ele HOME in early 2021 with the goal of producing a magazine that was content rich, showcasing homes from around the world, and featuring inspiring people in their field from all walks of life.

Over the last few years, we have had the privilege of interviewing some of the world’s best designers such as Bobby Berk, Shea McGee, and the lovely ladies from Three Birds Renovations. We have featured homes from all around the world and we have had the chance to visit so many gorgeous parts of Australia and talk to homeowners about what makes their house a home.

This issue is no exception. We visit homes in Mozambique and London and revisit one of ele’s most popular homes ever featured, The Bay Beachouse in Hervey Bay, Queensland. We also chat to Perth based artist, Adele Naidoo and check out Palmero, Italy with Lucy Fenton, of Fenton & Fenton, who interviews ceramicist, Patrizia Italiano.

We look forward to bringing you more great issues of ele HOME and we would like to thank you all, our fabulous readers, for the wonderful encouragement and support we have received so far. It is very much appreciated.

Katie S kinner Editor In the Round Pink Bacio Plate $29

Credits

Editor-in-Chief: Mia Cowling Editor: Katie Skinner Social Instagram: @eat.live.escape_home Facebook: facebook.com/eatliveescape Twitter: @eatliveescape Web eatliveescape.com Subscribe eatliveescape.com Advertise Want to advertise with us?

Email: hello@eatliveescape.com eat.live.escape is proudly published by MJC Digital Pty Ltd PO Box 91 Woodend Victoria 3442 Australia mjcpublishing.com ABN 19 630 569 989 Views and opinions expressed by contributors and authors are not necessarily those of the publisher.

All rights reserved. eat.live.escape is committed to sustainable business practices and supporting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Issue 8, 2023 ISSN 2653-049X Copyright eat.live.escape 2023

what I'm loving right now...

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY ele HOME acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Peoples as the traditional owners and custodians of the place where this magazine is published. ele HOME also pays respects to Elders past and present.

Kate Ford Rosa Corset Gown $695

Front cover This month’s cover image features the home of couple, Casper van der Merwe and Hein Visser who built this coastal luxe home in Mozambique.

For more of this home, turn to page 39 IMAGE: Greg Cox

Libertine Parfumerie Carriere Freres Sichuan Pepper Candle $79

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With a superb climate such as this, you want to make the most of the outdoors " pg 39

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28 CONTENTS 9 IN STYLE ele HOME checks out what's new in the world of home and design.

26 CIAO BELLA The influence of The White Lotus.

11 VISIT Visiting Mollymook, NSW? Check out the latest accommodation offering, Motel Molly.

28 FEATURE ARTIST Meet Perth based artist, Adele Naidoo.

20 THE ITALIAN JOB Lucy Fenton talks with Palermo ceramicist Patrizia Italiano and her latest designs for Fenton & Fenton.

38 HOMES TO LOVE Three homeowners from around the world showcase their beautiful homes.

37 The ele HOME Reading Guide.

80 CHINESE-ISH! Delicious home cooking recipes. Not quite authentic but 100% mouth-watering.

89 THE LUXE GUIDE TO PORT DOUGLAS Where to stay and what to do in beautiful Port Douglas, QLD.

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Pigeon Pair The new LG Pigeon Pair fridge and freezer range delivers a seamless, stylish design without sacrificing on functionality. With its flat door and snug cabinet fit, the fridge/freezer combo creates a custom, built-in look that blends effortlessly into the modern kitchen.

The LG Pigeon Pair range is also equipped with elegant features like a stylish touch display and fingerprint resistant finish that help achieve a minimalist aesthetic while premium metallic finishes elevate the look of any kitchen with understated luxury, giving the kitchen the finishing touch of modern elegance. lg.com

SUPER BLOOM Super Bloom is a love letter to flowers. It is a manifesto for maximum plants, maximum flowers, maximum beauty. It is perfect for the current time and trends. It also shows how to create your own super bloom.

Leading plant specialist Jac Semmler revives the appeal of treasured, old-world beautiful flowers for the modern garden. This is a comprehensive gardening how-to for beginners and experts alike.

RRP $90 Thames and Hudson

Blooming Marvellous French Bloom, an organic alcohol-free sparkling wine crafted in the southwest of France has arrived in Australia. Female-led and founded on the ethos of inclusivity and wellbeing, French Bloom’s premium range of French Bubbly with 0.0% alcohol brings elegance to any celebration. The house now offers two cuvées, Blanc and Rosé, each created from a unique blend of organic wines. Every batch undergoes a manual de-alcoholisation process to achieve the 0.0% alcohol content while also focusing on achieving integrity of flavour.

Available from David Jones

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Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show The world-renowned Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show, presented by Scotts Osmocote, is returning to Carlton Gardens from 29 March until 2 April 2023. With all-new flower-filled experiences and an internationally renowned talent line up, you don’t want to miss the Southern Hemisphere’s largest horticultural festival!

Yo-Chi Yum! Summer is the perfect time for a frozen treat!

Yo-Chi, Australia's favourite frozen yogurt brand with stores dotted across Australia, is the ultimate Vegan foodie destination. You won't be missing out on any of the fun when you and your friends visit the buffet-style dessert bar, complete with many Vegan options for both their frozen yogurt flavours and countless toppings so you can create your ultimate dessert.

Make sure you join the Chi Club to build points every time you visit Yo-Chi. yochi.com.au

InStyle

Beach Houses Many of us aspire to live the life of luxury by the sea. For the elite few, it’s a fabulous reality soaking up their days in some of the world’s most extravagant and lavish waterfront properties. Whether it is the sound of the surf, ocean views to die for or the feel of sand between your toes, you’ll be enchanted by the stunning photographs of secluded coastal properties that showcase their premier locations, luxurious interiors and their sheer magnificence. Take this collection of homes and be inspired to create your own ‘coastal’ abode, in your own personal style.

Beach Houses, Barry Stone, New Holland Publishers RRP $35.00 available from all good book retailers or online www.newhollandpublishers.com.

Fabulosa’s fragranced rainbow of sweet-smelling household goodies We’re now all super germ conscious but that doesn’t mean our homes needs to smell antiseptic. Fabulosa puts a range of loved fragrances to work eliminating 99.9% of household’s germs while delighting and stimulating your senses. Fabulosa brings scent-sational fragrances to in and around the home. Long-lasting and utterly lush, they leave your home smelling gorgeous; and with a scent to suit every taste and trend, what’s not to love? cleanhq.com.au

Heatherly Design Featuring the ‘Marcel’ bedhead as a special release for Summer 2023 dressed in ‘Cosmo brass velvet’ appeals for its signature curve, framing bordered edge and soft velvet in a cosy rich palette. The coppery tones evoke warm summer nights followed by lazy mornings resting against the soft headboard drinking our favourite tea. Heatherly Design founder Georgie Leckey says “whilst it seems counter-intuitive to seek out velvet for the summer months, velvet’s natural composition and feel good, durable texture is akin to a warm, enveloping hug every day of the year”.

Priced from $2160 - $2450 Queen (other sizes available). heatherlydesign.com.au

KitchenAid – Colour of the Year!

KitchenAid announces its fifth annual Colour of The Year. Hibiscus, the 2023 Colour of the Year, attracts us to new experiences in and out of the kitchen. A vivid fuchsia with a matte finish, the Colour of the Year is inspired by the captivating beauty of the Hibiscus flower in a verdant garden.

Available small appliances, including the Mixer and K400 Blender RRP $449 and Artisan Series KSM195 Tilt-Head Stand Mixer RRP $999 kitchenaid.com.au ele HOME

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l e t o M olly M

Following a multi-million-dollar refurbishment of a former beachside motel, the highly anticipated Motel Molly officially opened in December 2022. Offering the perfect blend of classic South Coast charm with a cool, curated twist, Motel Molly is in a calibre of its own on the spectacular NSW South Coast, positioned just a few sandy steps from the glistening ocean.

IMAGES: Elise Hassey

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nspired by the soothing pastel colours of Mediterranean coastal towns across the Amalfi, Portofino and Cinque Terre, with hints of Moroccan influences, the sixteen-room, boutique accommodation is designed as a soulful coastal retreat with a relaxed atmosphere in celebration of its laid-back coastal town roots. Just two hours and forty minutes from Canberra, and three hours from Sydney, Motel Molly is the ideal destination for a summer road trip.

Breathing new life into the South Coast accommodation scene, the extensive refurbishment was a creative collaboration between the Sydney-based Knox Developments team and award-winning, highly sought-after interior design and architecture practice, Richards Stanisich. The two set out to reimagine the former motel as a cool boutique lodging that would welcome guests with an appreciation for good design, from couples and families, friends and solo travellers alike, looking for a weekend getaway or enjoy a longer beach escape.

“Restoring the Motel was a fine balancing act. A place of nostalgia and endless warmth, the motel’s next chapter celebrates the beauty of an Australian coastal setting while creating a new and exciting destination for locals and visitors alike.

This involved designing a distinct palette that speaks to its local context in a contemporary manner; soft, natural textures and muted, creamy tones elevated with intricate details and striking patterns. The hotel features a curated selection of custom furniture, handmade tiles by Jatana Interiors in Byron Bay and captivating artwork by local Australian artists.” Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich

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Visit A mix of generously sized three, two, and one-bedroom apartments and several king suites are all completed by Smeg appliances from their 50’s retro Aesthetics Line, with some suites enjoying the added luxury of Moroccan-style sunken baths.

Details have been carefully executed by the interiors team, with Le Labo Santal 26 scented candles, room sprays and bathroom amenities, and handmade Moroccan ceramics and textiles by Lrnce, a Marrakech based lifestyle brand by Belgium artist Laurence Leenaer with a devoted, cult-like following across the globe. The Richards Stanisich team worked closely with designer furniture houses Spence and Lyda and McMullin & Co to curate a collection of furniture pieces for the open floorplans that nodded to the retro flair of the motel while still exuding comfort.

The property itself is located mere metres from the sand, allowing guests to wander to and from the waters all day, seeking refuge from the summer sun. Cascading bougainvillea and greenery, olive trees and an outdoor BBQ area overlooks the central swimming pool, surrounded by deck chairs and tassel-trimmed scalloped umbrellas, where guests can bring their freshly caught fish to BBQ while enjoying a poolside Aperol Spritz as the sun sets.

For the foodie-inclined, Mollymook is home to a vast choice of gastronomic experiences, including Gwylo’s outstanding Asian fusion, right through to local favourites including Breaker’s Café and Mollymook Beach Hut Cafe. A little further inland lies Milton, a destination for food and antique hunters alike.

Must-do’s include Milk Haus, Brown Sugar and Pilgrims Café, Italian restaurant The Guild and Harvest Bar for great tapas and cocktails. Local family-owned winery Cupitt’s Estate and Bawley Vale Estate wineries also offer wine tastings and are perfect for a long lunch.

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Alternatively, guests can choose to make the most of their Mediterranean-inspired oasis and indulge in the mini bar stocked with locally sourced wine from Cupitt’s Estate, Stone & Wood Beer from award winning Byron Bay Brewery, sip on their choice of cocktail between an Espresso Martini, Negroni or Margarita, or relax with a glass or two of Aix Rosé or Moet & Chandon, enjoyed best alongside a Loco Love Chocolate.

Rates for each room category start at: Standard Suite $299, Oceanside Balcony/Garden Suite $389, Spa Suite $389, One Bedroom $439, Two Bedroom $549 and Three Bedroom $699.

Motelmolly.com.au @motelmolly_ #motelmolly

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The Italian Job Lucy Fenton, owner of Fenton & Fenton, chats to ceramic artist, Patrizia Italiano and learns about her journey as a ceramicist and the inspiration behind her latest creations. Sicilian Ceramic Artist, Patrizia Italiano draws inspiration from the magical island of Filicudi, where she creates whimsical, colourful and expressive characters & creations. Her work pays ode to the island’s colours, smells, landscapes and sunsets. Each piece is lovingly hand-crafted with time-honoured traditions and embodies elements of nature and everyday life in Sicily, reinterpreted her way.

Q&A We love your colourful and expressive ceramics. Where did your life as a ceramicist start and how has it evolved?

I have a vivid memory from my childhood, where once a year we would visit a great-aunt at the Benedictine Convent in Catania. She was the superior of the convent, a cloistered nun: a discipline that did not allow her to leave the Monastery.

She taught pottery to the children of the convent school.

On our visits I remember a large wooden table 20 meters long, exploding with florals, colours, tools and clay. I was endlessly fascinated with it all and touched everything, exploring the clay with my little hands.

Later in high school I began to attend ceramic workshops in Sicily. I learned to work on the lathe, to glaze and pass colours. I was fascinated by everything, the designs of the Sicilian tradition, the techniques, the other creators and where I lived.

After high school I attended university and completed a thesis on ceramics. I joined an association of artists and craftsmen and we were housed in a building in the historic centre of Palermo, where each artist worked independently on a discipline. These were wonderful years full of energy, talent and creativity. After only a couple of years I then opened my own small independent studio.

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Patrizia Italiano

The Entrepreneur

Patrizia Italiano & Luxy Fenton

How do you describe the style of your work?

My ceramics are very contemporary, but inspired by the culture and traditions of Sicily and the Mediterranean. I’m endlessly inspired by the colours of the Palermo markets, the greens and browns of my beloved Filicudi Island with its blue-green sea that suddenly turns deep, dark blue. The pink of the sheep grazing in the Sicilian countryside, the fiery red of the volcanoes of Sicily, and the acid green of the prickly pears burned by the sun. The scent of freshly picked mandarins and lemons, the rustle of summer fig leaves. The faces of the sellers and the peasants and the smiles of the women looking out from the baroque balconies. In summary, the little corner of the world I know and love.

What materials do you work with and what does your design process look like?

I work with different types of clay and I enjoy experimenting with new objects and different glazes and crystallines.

The creative vision often comes at night … and then I can't sleep and I sit and draw my ideas in colour, adjusting the lines, erasing and editing, tearing and often starting again.

And then I create characters and give them names like Carmelina, Calogero, Totuccio and Filomena! As I work I hear the donkeys, the sheep, the hens… and, before I know it, morning has arrived!

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How does your environment, where you live and how you live inspire your creations?

I live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world and Sicily brings me so much joy. It is biodiverse, unspoilt and colourful. I am lucky and I am grateful every day for being able to enjoy the beauty and culture that surrounds me.

Is there a favourite place you go to get inspiration?

My second home is Filicudi, a small Mediterranean island facing Sicily in the archipelago of the seven Aeolian islands.

Many inspirations are born here, where the beauty of nature and the intensity of the clear sea and shades ranging from green to deep blue surround me. I am always amazed by nature - the colours and shapes of the rocks on the sea and the views of the island from above. Beauty in the richness of nature in Filicudi is what feeds my inspiration.

What do you want people to feel when discover and use your pieces in their homes?

I am happy when one of my ceramics fills the house with joy, warms it, keeps others company.

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Have you got any favourite pieces in your recent collection for Fenton & Fenton?

Yes, I love the dishes made with rough fireclay, where the glaze stretches to smooth the piece, as if there were two souls. Lemon, Prickly Pear and Strawberry are my new faves.

All inspired by the colours of the fruit in the markets I visit daily.

When you are not creating and making, what will we find you doing?

There are many families, friends and loved ones to spend time with. We drink aperitifs, dance into the evenings, enjoy long swims in the sea, followed by boat rides, we take walks on the mule tracks, create recipes in the kitchen, and visit workshops and exhibitions of other artists. It’s an idyllic life.

Channel Mediterranean summer vibes and entertaining with Patrizia’s latest colourful creations available from Fenton & Fenton. fentonandfenton.com.au.

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Ciao Bella

Season two of The White Lotus has us all dreaming of a Sicilian Summer.

Whether you see yourself as Tanya in her designer florals, Lucia and Mia in their 60s inspired mini dresses, whimsy Daphne or the more streamlined Harper, you’ll be inspired in both your fashion and home design choices by the latest season of this very bingeable show.

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Four Seasons SAN DOMENICO PALACE, TAORMINA

1. Fenton and Fenton Patrizia Italiano Carmelina Prickly Pear $550/ $550/ 2. Fazeek Pearl Platter Amber and Lilac $159/ $159/ 3. Ugg Express Printed Long Silk Scarves $49.75// 4. Ortigia Sicilia Liquid Soap Amber $49/ $49.75 $49/ 5. No. 22 Capri Da Paolino Blue Dinner Plate Set $129/ $129/ 6. Testa di Moro Head Statue similar can be found on Etsy/ 7. Zimmermann High Buttoned Midi dress $995/ $995/ 8. Ugg Express Aviator Polarised Sunglasses $60/ $60/ 9. Fenton and Fenton Beatrice Platter - Ladies ele HOME 26 Lunch Who

by Whitney Spicer $90/ $90/ 10. Fazeek Salad Servers Pink and Green $89/ $89/ 11. Kollab Daisy Bouquet Shopper Tote $29.95/ $29.95/

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7 Aubrey Plaza as Harper, Will Sharpe as Ethan, Theo James as Cameron, and Meghann Fahy as Daphne in The White HBO

1.Alemais Soleil Patchwork Shirtdress $695/ $695/ 2. Business and Pleasure The Holiday Beach Umbrella Vintage Lemons $199/ $199/ 3. Business and Pleasure The Sling Chair Lauren’s Pink Stripe $249/ $249/ 4. Ugg Express Hand Carry Leisure Bag $80/ $80/ 5. Jai Vasicek Hippy Market Limited Edition Print from $950/ $950/ 6. No.22 Capri Tiberio Tablecloth $169/ $169/ 7. Testa di Moro Head Statue similar can be found on Etsy/ Etsy/ 8. In the Round House Buon Appetito Plate $29/ $29/ ele 9. Ortigia HOMESicilia City 27 Box Soaps Taormina $55/ $55/

The Art Influencer

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The Artist

Q&A Tell us about your yourself?

I was born in Durban, South Africa, my family immigrated to New Zealand when I was 10, we then moved to Perth 10 years ago, in 2019 my husband and two boys relocated to Shanghai for two years and now we are back in beautiful Australia to stay.

I am a self-taught artist, and what was once a side hustle and dream job has become a reality with my husband and both working full time on our little business for the past 9 months. I am obsessed with interiors, fashion, and colour.

Where are you based?

Perth, WA How would you describe your creative style and mediums used?

I create mixed media art, from conception each piece is created digitally. My digitally hand drawn flowers act as collage material, each flower placed purposely in a composition. Floral hues are balanced in each composition. These often include subtle flowers with a deliberate pop of colour. Pastels intertwine with earthy tones or contrasting brighter hues.

I love negative space around interconnecting flowers. The play of negative space allows your eye to breathe between small detail and patterns in flowers. I love playing with ratio and often my compositions only use five or less flowers that are magnified. My work is a homage to vintage flower poster compositions, I love colour blocking, allowing each paint stroke to form texture and layers - defining depth rather than outlining too much.

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How did you begin your career?

Having a father as an artist and art teacher allowed me to appreciate beauty and colour. I was fortunate enough to have my creativity nurtured at an early age and, art became my passion. I obtained my bachelor's degree in Education but my passion for art, design, and interior styling, lead me to complete a Diploma in Interior Design while working as an art teacher. With the arrival of my first child, time at home allowed me to explore graphic design. I created my first collection in 2018 and was represented by Greenhouse Interiors. This gave me exposure as an emerging artist. I still worked as a full-time teacher up until I arrived back in Perth mid 2021. My time in Shanghai allowed me to experiment and establish my brand, create a website, and start selling art on my own (scary at the time but so rewarding). I strongly believe that when doors open no matter how overwhelming or daunting it might feel at first you have to see where opportunity leads you.

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The Artist Who and what inspires you?

I draw my inspiration from early memories of watching my father create and paint. Growing up in South Africa I was surrounded by nature and always admired the landscapes. Flowers are off course a huge inspiration. Since I was little, I was obsessed with colour palettes, I remember rearranging stationary into colour order and my wardrobe and toys. My art style is heavily inspired by fauvism and one of my favourite Artists – Henri Matisse’s use of colour blocking, and pastel hues with pops of colour. My art is also inspired by vintage floral poster compositions, fashion, interiors, travel, and culture.

What do you love about your work?

My favourite aspect about being an artist is being able to create your own reality, waking up each day and being my own boss, watching seeds you plant over time bloom and grow into a business. My body of work and print collections show the evolving artist that I will forever be, and I love that I can see growth over time.

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What does 2023 have in store for you?

I have an exciting collab coming out this year that is my biggest collab to date so can't wait to share more on that.

Future plans in the pipeline are experimenting with my florals on textiles and décor items. I can envision a homewares or fashion collection but waiting for creative flow to come naturally with these.

Where can we see/ buy your work?

I have an online store where all my art can be purchased directly from me. Instagram is my visual portfolio where you can view up to date information regarding new pieces and behind the scenes of what I am working on including original paintings, collabs, exciting projects and new collections.

I also have selected stockists/boutiques that stock my art to view in person, including Jumbled, Norsu Interiors, Life Interiors and Granite Lane. @adele.naidoo.designs adelenaidoo.com

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"A book is a dream that you hold in your hand."

Neil Gaiman

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The ele HOME Reading Guide

Editor's Pick UNBOUNDED

by MARIA THATTIL What would you change in your life if you could silence the voice that tells you: you’re not enough, keep quiet, you can’t do it, or there is no space for you?

As a queer child of immigrants, Maria Thattil knows what it is like to struggle with belonging. To have confusing, disparate identities, none of them fitting traditional ideas of worth, power or success. In Unbounded, she shares galvanising stories of what she has lived and learned through experiencing racism, sexism, financial hardship, intergenerational trauma, homophobia and mental health challenges.

Revealing ten steps to self-mastery, Unbounded offers a path towards active growth, fearless self-love and liberation.

I WILL FIND YOU

by HARLAN COBEN David and Cheryl Burroughs are living the dream - married, a beautiful house in the suburbs, a three year old son named Matthew - when tragedy strikes one night in the worst possible way.

David awakes to find himself covered in blood, but not his own - his son's. And while he knows he did not murder his son, the overwhelming evidence against him puts him behind bars indefinitely.

Five years into his imprisonment, Cheryl's sister arrives - and drops a bombshell. She's come with a photograph that a friend took on vacation at a theme park. The boy in the background seems familiar - and even though David realizes it can't be, he knows it is. It's Matthew, and he's still alive. David plans a harrowing escape from prison, determined to do what seems impossible - save his son, clear his own name, and discover the real story of what happened that devastating night.

THINK AGAIN - THE POWER OF KNOWING WHAT YOU DON'T KNOW

by ADAM GRANT Bestselling author and TED podcast star, Adam Grant examines the critical art of rethinking -- how questioning your beliefs and knowing what you don't know can lead you to success at work and happiness at home. Think Again invites us to let go of views that are no longer serving us well and prize mental flexibility, humility, and curiosity over foolish consistency. If knowledge is power, knowing what we don't know is wisdom.

ROMANTIC COMEDY

by CURTIS SITTENFELD With a series of heartbreaks under her belt, Sally Milz - successful TV script writer for a legendary latenight TV comedy show - has long abandoned the search for love.

But when her friend and fellow writer begins to date a glamorous actress, he joins the growing club of interesting but average-looking men who get to date accomplished, beautiful women. Sally channels her annoyance into a sketch, poking fun at this 'social rule'. The reverse never happens for a woman.

Then Sally meets Noah, a pop idol with a reputation for dating models.

But this isn't a romantic comedy it's real life. Would someone like him ever date someone like her?

Skewering all our certainties about why we fall in love, ROMANTIC COMEDY is a witty and probing tale of how the heart will follow itself, no matter what anyone says. It is Curtis Sittenfeld at her most sharp, daring and compassionate best.

SPARE

by PRINCE HARRY, THE DUKE OF SUSSEX It was one of the most searing images of the twentieth century: two young boys, two princes, walking behind their mother's coffin as the world watched in sorrow - and horror. As Diana, Princess of Wales, was laid to rest, billions wondered what the princes must be thinking and feeling - and how their lives would play out from that point on.

For Harry, this is that story at last.

With its raw, unflinching honesty, Spare is a landmark publication full of insight, revelation, self-examination, and hard-won wisdom about the eternal power of love over grief.

OUTLIVE - THE SCIENCE AND ART OF LONGEVITY

by PETER ATTIA AND BILL GIFFORD For all its successes, mainstream medicine has failed to make much progress against the diseases of ageing that kill most people: heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and type 2 diabetes. Too often, it intervenes with treatments too late, prolonging lifespan at the expense of quality of life. Dr Peter Attia, the world's top longevity expert who is featured on Chris Hemsworth's National Geographic documentary LIMITLESS, believes we must replace this outdated framework with a personalised, proactive strategy for longevity. This isn't 'biohacking,' it' s science: a well-founded strategic approach to extending lifespan while improving our physical, cognitive and emotional health, making each decade better than the one before. With Outlive's practical advice and roadmap, you can plot a different path for your life, one that lets you outlive your genes to make each decade better than the one before.

FIRE WITH FIRE

by CANDICE FOX Candice Fox’s latest heart-pounding thriller, as a couple hold the LAPD to ransom in a desperate attempt to find their missing daughter.

Ryan and Elsie Delaney don’t accept the official line that their young daughter drowned on Santa Monica beach. Her body has never been found and their pleas for a proper investigation are rejected.

So now the desperate pair are raining hellfire on the police.

Taking three hostages at the Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center, they give law enforcement an ultimatum: if Tilly isn’t located in the next 24 hours, they will destroy evidence in several major cases.

OLD BABES IN THE WOOD

by MARGARET ATWOOD A highly personal new collection of stories by the bestselling, twice Booker-winning cultural icon.

These stories explore the full warp and weft of experience, from two best friends disagreeing about their shared past, to the right way to stop someone from choking; from a daughter determining if her mother really is a witch, to what to do with inherited relics such as World War II parade swords.

At the heart of the collection is a stunning sequence that follows a married couple as they travel the road together, the moments big and small that make up a long life of love -- and what comes after.

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Mozambique Modern

With a nod to the Modernists and an eye toward the contemporary, a couple design, and build, an elegant oasis in tropical Mozambique Text: Alma Viviers/ Production Sven Alberding Images: Greg Cox

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asper van der Merwe and Hein Visser have been living in the popular tourist town of Tofo, in Inhambane Province of southeastern Mozambique for eight years where they ran a guest house and restaurant.

But the pair grew tired of the always-a-party lifestyle of Tofo and wanted a little respite, a quiet oasis from the hustle and bustle. So they scourged the surroundings for a property and found it perched on a dune just outside Tofo, fringed by a lush mangrove forest, which puts just enough space between them and the cosmopolitan town and popular beach.

“It is a massive dream that became reality,” says Casper. “We spent a long time dreaming and envisioning what we wanted the house to look like but also how the spaces needed to live.

We made it very vivid for ourselves.”

They imagined an elegant, clean-lined house where everything could open up. “With a superb climate such as this, you want to make the most of the outdoors, explains Hein. “We imagined features such as being able to fall out of bed and into the pool or taking a bath outside.”

Casper also designed the timber furniture units and had them custom-made to fit with the rustic chic aesthetic of the house.

The warm Indian Ocean with rich abundance of sea life makes Mozambique a water sports paradise including surfing, snorkelling and diving. Also a must when visiting Tofo is swimming with whale sharks and large manta rays.

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Welcome to paradise – the front door to Vanilla Views.

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Casper concurs: “Unlike the crammed, air-conditioned, low-ceiling concrete houses that we had been renting, we wanted to create this open space that gives you the feeling of being outdoors even when you are indoors.”

Casper counts some of the proponents of Modernism such as Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe and Carlo Scarpa as inspiration. “The architecture in Inhambane is incredibly beautiful,” he explains. “It is all old concrete Art Deco and Modernist buildings – I love the simple lines of the buildings.”

The plan of the house is straightforward: A long rectangle of brick and wooden columns, which frees up the walls to become large wooden sliding doors that give a whole new meaning to open-plan. It allows for an internal flexibility and spatial freedom – an important aspect of the design for the couple.

Timber sliding doors, which remind of the Japanese shōji screens that act as doors, windows and room dividers all-inone, allowing whole facades of the house to be opened up.

This is also a natural way to control the building climate: “The doors are almost never closed. Depending on the prevailing wind or of it rains you just close the exposed side,” says Hein.

“We don’t have air-conditioning, not even ceiling fans.”

A 600mm clerestory window that runs below the roofline creates the impression that the roof is floating above columns and walls as well as allowing natural lighting into the space when the doors are closed.

While the planning phase was effortless, building proved to be more challenging.

Because of the sandy soil site preparation was crucial. The whole footprint of the house was excavated to foundation depth and the soil was replace with a compacted sand-cement Having a ball – Jake, Thando, Riley and Tasi relish the generous outdoor entertainment areas of Vanilla Views.

The main living space with a glimpse of the master suite. The large wooden sliding doors means you can decide how private you want to be.

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The headboard, which Casper custom-designed and made, in the master suite is also the dividing wall to the en-suite bathroom.

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The L-shaped built-in patio area provides the perfect spot to while away evening under the starry African sky.

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The rustic chic décor approach continuous throughout the house into the en-suite bathroom where clean lines and minimalist fittings create a tranquil scene.

This is a robust structure with durable finishes that can withstand the onslaught of the tropics but also the wear and tear of living and playing here. Casper and Hein’s friend Cindy Acutt joins Thando and Riley in a game of hand ball.

mixture. The footings for the timber columns where then excavated from the stabilized soil.

Manufactured construction resources are limited in the country and almost all of the building material, including fittings, were imported. “We literally had to truck in everything – taps, basins, lighting, and ironmongery – except copper piping,” explains Hein. “Which adds another layer of logistics and costs to the building project.”

The couple also sank a borehole and laid irrigation – a necessity in the warm clime and sandy soil – to cultivate a lawn around the houses and planted more than 140 trees including Cashew (Anacardium occidentale), Flamboyant (Delonix regia) Indian almond (Terminalia catappa) and Pride of India (Lagerstroemia indica). “We plotted the houses in such a way as to not sacrifice any of the exiting trees,” Casper says. “We wanted the mature trees to form part of the design.”

Although not a typical Modernist glass box, the transparency achieved by the openness of the house accomplishes to some extent the ideologies of Casper’s icon Mies van der Rohe when he says: “We should try to bring nature, houses, and human beings together in a higher unity,” making for an original house that melds with its surroundings and making occupants keenly aware of their environment.

Casper and Hein’s house is available for holiday rentals.

For more information email Casper at cdesign@live.co.za

After a day surfing the clear waves of Tofinho or diving the wash the sea and sand out of your hair in the outdoor shower.

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In his design Casper wanted to give the impression that the roof is floating He achieved this with a 600mm clerestory strip window. Along with the stoep, deck and sunken patio, the roof reads as one of several horizontal planes.

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In the private courtyard creates an outdoor bathroom with twin showers and a sunken bath ideal for romantic evenings under the starry sky.

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The whole house opens up onto the expansive stoep that runs along the whole front façade.

Hein installed the suspended wooden shelving in the kitchen. Fittings and finishes simple and neutral to blend in with the surroundings. elekept HOME 50 are

Pineapples, pawpaws and passion fruits are just some of the tropical harvest from the region.

A picture perfect view of the landscape through a window in the large wooden sliding doors.

A picture perfect view of the landscape through a window in the large wooden sliding doors.

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One of the features of the house that Casper and Hein envisioned in the planning stages of the house was to be able to literally roll out of bed into the pool. The pool is central to the house’s layout.

Casper and Hein installed a lawn and more than 140 trees before and during the construction of the houses which meant by the time the houses were completed the garden was already looking lush.

Here open plan takes on a whole new dimension as whole façades slide open to create a seamless extension of the indoors to the outside. Ceiling to floor curtains allow you to temper the sun without losing the breeze.

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Having a ball – Jake, Thando, Riley and Tasi relish the generous outdoor entertainment areas of Vanilla Views.

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True Blue

Clay, plywood and a splash of Yves Klein Blue combine to stunning effect in the London home of a fashion designer, her architect husband and their two daughters.

Text: Nicky Guymer, Styling Someday Studio, Photographs: Elsa Young

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t’s the story of many a home buyer’s journey. You’re renting. You’ve got hipster coffee shops on your doorstep and you can’t move for pop-up boutiques, craft ale breweries and great schools for your kids.

But you have a dream and will trade in convenience for the chance to buy and renovate your own haven. In a dusty corner of North West London, Mallika Chaudhuri, founder of conscious fashion brand, Indoi, and her architect husband, Sean Ronnie Hill, have done just that and created a striking family home.

The area they chose, Harlesden, is diplomatically described by Sean as ‘edgy’ but emboldened by friends who had already set up home there, amazing transport connections to all corners of London and regeneration imminent, it offered an opportunity to create the unique home they had been dreaming of.

Sean’s architectural practice, Rise, has been changing the guts of what a Victorian bay-fronted house can look like. Vast experience with the council planning department and a wealth of knowledge in juxtaposing different materials, meant for his own home, he knew just how much he could get out of their two-bedroomed, ground floor apartment.

“When we were viewing this flat, there was a property for sale across the street which had the much coveted south-facing garden, but it was half a metre narrower,” explains Sean. “Overall that amounted to 10 square metres. When you’re talking about a 79 versus an 89 square metre flat, that space is precious - that extra width makes all the difference to the possibilities you have for a place.” Mallika wasn’t as convinced, “Honestly I was really dubious. I just wanted the south facing garden. If it had been me, I would have bought the flat across the road.

I went on and on about it so much that Sean made me a 3D sun path diagram to show me where the light would be at every hour of the day, to prove to me that this flat would be light enough. And then he used virtual reality software to ‘walk’ me through the design and layout of the flat.”

Sean says, “We got going without planning permission, which sounds terrifying, but because of my experience with the planning department and these types of buildings, I knew we’d get it. We already had a party wall award, so we could press on with quite a bit of confidence.”

Moving to an area that is yet to see the full influx of gentrification also worked to their advantage. “In fact, most people are just thankful of any improvement, especially if it involves rebuilding their garden walls” explains Mallika.

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Due to a shipping issue, most of Mallika and Sean’s material possessions are still being stored by a friend in Spain. “When we moved back to London, my family gave us a lot of stuff and we did a ‘smash and grab’ at Sunbury Antiques Market for a dining table and chairs. We’ve brought back whatever we can fit in a suitcase from Barcelona, but there are specific things I still think about...a beautiful blue Indian throw that my mum gave to me which I have the perfect spot for; three Moroccan rugs, some that look exactly like those I saw in Marrakech recently, but I know are sitting in Spain just waiting to be brought back here. One day they will make it home,” says Mallika.

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Developing a property from its bare bones gave Mallika and Sean the chance to use the materials they love and, particularly from Sean’s perspective, ones he has a profound respect for. “Sean’s all about the honesty and beauty of raw materials so things like painting walls were not an option; he likes things in their most natural state,” explains Mallika. “So we did a materials board and plywood, tadelakt and clay were our must-haves.” These wall treatments did allow Mallika to introduce colour, however. Sean says, “Left up to me, the place would have been quite austere. Mallika has this incredible eye for colour and worked on a scheme that could flow through each room and the flat as a whole, whilst remaining true to the materials’ innate qualities.”

Mallika’s lifelong love of Yves Klein Blue punctuates the flat, complemented by shades of pink and terracotta as a nod to their roof terrace in Barcelona, where they lived for 10 years before returning to London. “Fifty shades of white” give depth to handmade tiles in the kitchen and laminated panels in the cabinetry, which would have otherwise remained bare-faced ply.

Five and a half months after starting work, they moved in. “We couldn’t afford the joinery and lived with breeze block walls for quite some time,” laughs Sean. Despite being disruptive, running out of money did provide unexpected benefits, giving the family time to live in the space and to realise small additions that have made it work better for them: a bespoke spice shelf running the length of the cooking area, designing one of a kind wallpaper from Mallika’s print archives for the WC and a kid’s dream of a bedroom for Freya and Indi that suits their style and, more practically, their physical capabilities for trotting up a set of stairs to bed. The joinery itself has completely revolutionised every space providing integrated, floor to ceiling storage in both bedrooms and the living room, bespokely designed inside and out to perfectly house the family's paraphernalia. “When you live in a flat that has neither a basement nor a loft space, you need to think of ways to house your stuff, that doesn’t encroach on the footprint of your living space, or dominate in its decorative design,” says Sean. “Planning the placement of storage in advance and having it made to our spec was the only way to go in getting the max out of every nook and cranny.” ele HOME

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Often architect’s homes feel precious and, by their own admission, Mallika and Sean would have clashed more had this been a home for them as a couple rather than as a family of four. As it is, the kids that have become the unwitting tool of compromise; their influence softening the architect’s aesthetic. For all it’s striking and unique angles, the space is most definitely a family home first, design statement second; a playful home that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Whilst Sean’s design and use of materials are without doubt the calling card of this flat, it is Mallika’s eye for interior decoration that softens the edges and creates a home of the space. The lucite and brass framed sofa was bought in the early 1980’s by Mallika’s parents at Harrods and is Mallika’s most treasured item. It is the centrepiece of a life inherited, “We had a dispute with our storage company in Spain and literally everything we own remains in storage in Barcelona. When we arrived back in London, our families jumped at the chance to hand down everything they didn’t want anymore. It’s made us evaluate what ‘stuff’ means and what we actually need.”

As a result, the family have a much more conscious attitude towards consumption, which in turn aligns themselves with the way they like to live and the work they undertake; an architect who would rather maximise every inch of existing space than unnecessarily adding to it, and a fashion brand committed to timeless, seasonless clothing made as responsibly as possible.

In a world where this clarity of unique design is usually marketed as the playground of the wealthy, there’s an intrinsic realness to Sean and Mallika’s project. They are happy to divulge that Sean’s experience of building and renovating, trade discounts and industry contacts made this project not only possible, but cost-effective, although it is only now, 3 years later, that they have been able to afford to pay for everything.

“Sean would come home and say, ‘we’ve got a discount on this, pick one,’” laughs Mallika. But the space is no poorer for it; the finish is immaculate, the overall effect stunning and the very thought that compromises were made is almost unfathomable.

“We love living here. I really notice it when we return from what has been marketed as a ‘highly designed’ hotel, having forked out loads of cash on a night’s stay. I get home and think, that wasn’t well-designed, this is well-designed,” says Sean. “The space isn’t massive but we’ve made it work for us. In a world that is hopefully moving ever closer to reducing its consumption, there is something to be said for choosing to take only what you need.” indoi.co.uk risedesignstudio.co.uk

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The living room is where the family spend all their time. “We spent 10 years living in Barcelona and we were massively inspired by the lightness and brightness of the city.” Huge skylights and floor to ceiling sliding doors connect the indoors with out. “Our rental in Kensal Rise was very inhibiting - the living spaces were separated and pokey and weren’t big enough to entertain in, so when we came here we felt very strongly about open plan living, but making sure the space was completely adaptable, so it could get bigger and smaller as we required it,'' explains Mallika. Sliding, pocket doors allow the side return extension to be entirely closed off. Mallika says, “We have family and friends all over the world, so it helps to be able to create a third bedroom; but instead of it sitting empty when no-one’s staying, it returns to being part of our living space again when they’ve gone home.”

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The children’s bedroom is a masterclass in plywood joinery. It has had a couple of redesigns to get it working perfectly for the family, “Originally there was a central ladder providing access to the top bunk, but this proved to be slightly kamikaze for the kids. So we redesigned a side staircase instead.” A happy accident resulted when the joiner read the measurements incorrectly and made the top bunk much higher than planned, but this has proved to work better as the girls have gotten older...and taller.

Access to the room is either through the standard sized door or via a hidden, kid-sized doorway. “It was really fun to think about their perspective and the way that they would grow up in the flat. The motivation was: what can we do for them? How can we create a playful space that they can enjoy and ticks the boxes of what they want?” explains Sean.

“Like most young girls, Freya was desperate for a pink room. Using bare plaster means we’re all happy,” says Mallika.

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The garden has allowed Mallika to fully exercise her love of Yves Klein Blue, painting her studio doors in this hue and establishing a statement backdrop for the garden. “The porthole windows in the studio doors were designed to mark the heights of each of us when we moved in, so there's an adult height window, a Freya height window and an Indi height window. I love that, whilst the property is pretty modern in its design, we’ve had a pop at creating our own history here,” explains Mallika. Whilst most of the garden is laid to brick, a corridor of pink and terracotta tiles leads to an oriel window at the end of the side return extension. “It’s our little piece of Barcelona in Harlesden.

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Mallika in her work studio.

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Escape to Another Time ele Home revisits one of the most popular homes featured in our sister magazine, ele.

STORY: Katie Skinner IMAGES: Katie Skinner

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The indoor/outdoor bathhouse adds a unique feature to the property. The stone bath is huge, comfortably fits two adults and is the ultimate in indulgence and coastal luxury.

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le HOME editor, Katie, had the pleasure of visiting this Hervey Bay home in early 2020, pre-COVID. Jaime and Dave have now sold Bay Beachouse and have moved on to their next reno project but the classic style of this home still holds strong three years on.

Jaime and Dave would often holiday at Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast when their children, Tom and Ivy, were little. When a work opportunity came along to relocate to Hervey Bay, they jumped at the chance to raise their children in a quiet, beachside community.

When they first viewed what was to become The Bay Beachouse, they fell in love with its grand, yet informal layout and the abundance of space and potential. Jaime and Dave saw a home with beautiful French doors and open plan that allowed ample room for family and friends to come together or disappear into private sanctuaries. In 2018 they decided to begin the long-held dream to renovate their home with the idea of turning it into boutique holiday accommodation. In January 2020 after a lot of hard work and loving effort, The Bay Beachouse opened.

The Bay Beachouse is a modern mix modern of relaxed coastal and luxe. When you enter the home you’re immediately appreciative of the impact the front deck and entry have, perfectly symmetrical with French doors flanking both sides and the Lucy Love Seat from Byron Bay Hanging Chairs hanging in the middle of the two entrance ways. This opens into a light and airy kitchen that is both functional and inviting. Jaime is not one for clutter and you see this in her carefully edited kitchen where everything feels just right, from the towering fiddle leaf fig, concrete bench tops to the raw wood shelving and sitting area which soften the industrial feel and give an organic cosiness to the space. The front of the concrete bench has been tiled in a black and white geometrical patterned tile from Tile Cloud which adds extra interest and depth to the kitchen and ties in beautifully with the Dulux Black Caviar kitchen cabinet colour.

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But the highlight is stepping through the French doors from the kitchen to the indoor/outdoor plantation style deck. The area is enormous and has space for both the BBQ area and dining, featuring Malawi chairs and copper pendant lighting, as well as a built-in bench seating for lounging. There is plenty of space for entertaining whatever the weather brings. Couple that with a sparkling pool, fire pit with more built-in bench seating and another outdoor dining area at the front of the property, it is the ideal home to escape and relax.

The beautiful French doors throughout most rooms in the home reflect a classic coastal style which Jaime quotes as one of her top things in the home, “One of our favourite features would have to be our French door hinges. These beautiful antique copper hinges are such a small part of our home however, we believe they have the greatest impact in each room. The size of the hinge and the way it opens up our doors, is a statement in itself.” When asked for other favourites around the home she lists the kitchen’s concrete benchtops, the luxurious Coco Republic leather lounge, and the Bahama shutters which they designed and had installed in the outdoor living area. But the highlight is the indoor/outdoor bathhouse. The stone bath is huge, comfortably fits two adults and is the ultimate in indulgence and coastal luxury.

When Jaime is asked to describe her style, she says “Dave and I have often questioned or discussed what we would call our style.

We feel our style has evolved from the love of high contrast, luxury and quintessential beach house, we believe that it could be best described as 'Coastal Luxe'.” Jaime draws inspiration from several sources but their number one holiday destination, Byron Bay, is where she gets most of her ideas. “Our favourite holiday destination is Byron Bay and our favourite places to stay are The Atlantic or The Bower. We have drawn a great deal of inspiration from Byron. Some of the homes and designers that have inspired us are Emma Lane and her home in the Byron Hinterland, The Bower, The Atlantic, Bisque House and Island Luxe. When asked what her top interior design tip is, she says “We live by the rule of three. An

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The front of the concrete bench has been tiled in a black and white geometrical patterned tile from Tile Cloud which adds extra interest and depth to the kitchen and ties in beautifully with the Dulux Black Caviar kitchen cabinet colour.

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A highlight is stepping through the French doors from the kitchen to the indoor/outdoor plantation style deck. The area is enormous and has space for both the BBQ area and dining, featuring Malawi chairs and copper pendant lighting, as well as a built-in bench seating for lounging.

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example of this would be our kitchen which started with a white pallet and then we added concrete benchtops and timber features to create a high contrast and organic feel.”

Jaime and Dave’s home is only a short walk to the sparkling blue waters of the Fraser Coast in the Hervey Bay suburb of Urangan. When asked, Jaime reels off a long list of things do in the area “Whale watching, world heritage listed Fraser Island day tours, 15 kilometres of esplanade to explore, Urangan Pier, beachfront cafes and restaurants, exploring the calm waters via sailing boat or jet ski and swimming all year round.

We love the Frontroom and Bean Beat cafe and our favourite relaxed beachside bar and dining is Enzo's on the Beach. Our favourite fine dining restaurant is the Vineyard which is a lazy 200 metres walk from home. But for us, our most beautiful memories and favourite part of our day is always the walk along Urangan Beach with our children by our side and our gorgeous golden retriever, Bryce.”

Since the seismic impact that has been COVID-19, Jaime and Dave have made the decision to batten down the hatches and ride out the storm. They have moved the family back into Bay Beachouse during the school terms but still have the home available over the Queensland school holiday periods. As Jaime says “It was bittersweet for our family moving back in as we could finally enjoy what took two years to create.

I told Dave daily how much I loved this kitchen, Dave loved that his garden was at his fingertips again. As the entire world reflected on what was important during the pandemic, we too pondered. As a family we decided to live in our home during our children’s school term.”

When asked what makes an amazing holiday retreat or home Jaime replies “A place you can escape from work or the stresses of life and truly disconnect in order to focus on your own wellbeing in a relaxed and comfortable environment.” And with the world in the middle of a pandemic and so much uncertainty The Bay Beachouse sounds like the perfect remedy.

Reprint from ele Magazine, Issue 1, 2020.

The Bay Beachouse is no longer available for bookings. @bay_beachouse

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A Jai Vasicek print brings a pop of colour to the more neutral, earthy tones in the rest of the home.

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The Bay Beachouse is a modern mix modern of relaxed coastal and luxe. When you enter the home you’re immediately appreciative of the impact the front deck and entry have, perfectly symmetrical with French doors flanking both sides and the Lucy Love Seat from Byron Bay Hanging Chairs hanging in the middle of the two entrance ways.

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Jaime loved using natural materials such as linen in earthy tones throughout the home.

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Chinese-ish Home cooking, not quite authentic, 100% delicious.

As immigrants with Chinese heritage who both moved to Australia as kids, Rosheen Kaul and Joanna Hu spent their formative years living between (at least) two cultures and wondering how they fitted in. Food was a huge part of this journey - should they cling to the traditional comfort of their parents' varied culinary heritage, attempt to assimilate wholly by learning to love shepherd's pie, or forge a new path where flavour and the freedom to choose trumped authenticity?

They went with option three.

By Rosheen Kaul and Joanna Hu

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Char kway teow

Fiery Sichuan fondue

Serves 1 Smoky, slippery, fatty and rich, these hawker-style noodles are laced with soft clouds of egg. This recipe is for one serve only, because you won’t get the same charred flavour from an overcrowded pan. Multiply as required for more servings.

If you’re short on time, shop-bought sambal oelek is fine to use instead of the chilli paste.

Serves 6

Ingredients: 1/3 cup (80 ml) melted lard (see Notes) or vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 125 g (4½ oz) fresh thick rice noodles 25 g (1 oz) fresh thick egg noodles ½ Chinese sausage (see Notes), thinly sliced on the diagonal 4 slices fish cake (see Notes) 4 raw prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined 1 egg, lightly beaten 1 handful bean sprouts, trimmed at both ends 30 g (1 oz) garlic chives, cut into thirds Chilli paste 5 dried Sichuan chillies (see Notes), soaked in water until soft, then drained 2 fresh red chillies 3 French or Asian shallots 1 teaspoon vegetable oil Pinch of salt Sauce 1½ teaspoons dark soy sauce ½ teaspoon kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon light soy sauce Method: To make the chilli paste, blitz all of the ingredients together in a food processor to form a fine paste and set aside. You will need 1 tablespoon of this chilli paste (or sambal oelek, if using) for each portion of noodles. Store the remaining chilli paste in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

To make the sauce, whisk all of the ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside.

Heat the lard or oil in a wok or frying pan over high heat until smoking. Add the garlic and fry until fragrant, 10–15 seconds, then add the rice noodles and egg noodles. Stir-fry over high heat for around 30 seconds, then add the Chinese sausage, fish cake and prawns. Continue to stir-fry over high heat until the sausage fat begins to render and the noodles are lightly charred, 2–3 minutes.

Add the sauce and 1 tablespoon of the chilli paste or sambal oelek (use more if you want more heat) and toss to coat.

Push the noodles to the side of the pan and add the beaten egg, bean sprouts and garlic chives. Fry for 30–40 seconds over high heat, until the chives begin to wilt.

Mix everything together, then transfer to a plate and serve immediately.

NOTES Lard is a flavoursome fat used in traditional Chinese cooking. You can buy it at most supermarkets and butchers. You could also use the fatty top layer that forms when making stock (see pages 51–53). Chinese sausage and fish cake are found in the fridge section of well-stocked Asian grocers. Dried Sichuan chillies are long, red, intensely-flavoured chillies, and they are available at most Asian grocers. If you can’t find them, use any other dried chillies.

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It’s a well-established fact that plenty of people of east Asian descent suffer from lactose sensitivity, and let’s be honest – fondue isn’t really Chinese in the slightest.

So you’re probably wondering why there is a fondue recipe in this cookbook. I’m a touch lactose-intolerant myself, but I reckon this recipe is worth the pain.

It might seem simple, being nothing more than cheese and wine melted together, but fondue splits easily. A well-made fondue should be silky-smooth and remain that way, even when heated. For surefire success every time, add cornflour (cornstarch) to the mix: it stops the proteins in the cheese from coagulating, guaranteeing your fondue stays smooth and silky.

In this recipe, we use beer instead of the traditional high-acid white wine. Beer is exactly what I’d be drinking with this dish, as the savouriness pairs beautifully with the cheese. As with all popular Sichuan dishes, this fondue is served under a blaze of vibrant red chilli oil.

If you don’t have a fancy fondue set-up, Use a cast-iron skillet or something similar that retains heat, and pop it back on the stove whenever you need to warm it up.

Pile the fondue high with fresh herbs and cracked black pepper, then dip anything your heart desires into it. Fondue is traditionally served with cubes of stale bread, pickled onions and cornichons, but anything that would be improved by being dunked in fiery cheese will do. Just make sure everything is bite-sized.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch) 300 g (10½ oz) Gruyere, grated 300 g (10½ oz) Comte, grated 2 cloves garlic, minced 300 ml (10½ fl oz) lager 1 tablespoon lemon juice ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground white pepper 100 ml chilli oil (see page 94, or use Lao Gan Ma chilli oil) Fresh dill, parsley and chives, roughly chopped Cracked black pepper To serve: Pickled chillies Bread, cut into cubes Hot smoked sausages Charcuterie Boiled potatoes Method: Place the cornflour and cheeses in a bowl and toss to combine. Set aside.

Heat the garlic and lager in a pan over low heat and bring to a simmer. Add a handful of the cheese mixture at a time to the simmering beer and whisk vigorously, ensuring each addition is completely melted and emulsified before adding more. Once all the cheese has been added and the mixture is thick and smooth, add the lemon juice, salt and white pepper and stir. If the mixture has turned into a blob of melted cheese with some separated liquid, don’t worry.

Simply increase the heat and whisk hard to bring it back together.

Transfer the cheese mixture to a fondue pot or cast-iron skillet. Dress liberally with the chilli oil, fresh herbs and cracked black pepper. If the fondue starts to set, simply pop it back on the stove and warm it up over low heat.

Serve the fondue with pickled chillies, bread, smoked sausages, charcuterie and boiled potatoes, for dipping.

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Cheat’s egg custard tart Makes 12 You’ll know by now that most of my cooking revolves around my inherent impatience (read: laziness). When I am hit with a craving for something specific, I want it as soon as possible. That being said, my little hacks and shortcuts come from a good place, and I wouldn’t make any adjustments that resulted in a sub-par recipe. I have some pride, after all.

The humble custard tart makes appearances in many different cultures, most famously as the Portuguese pastel de nata. The egg custard tart made its way to Hong Kong from the nearby Portuguese colony of Macao and the Cantonese transformed it by adding more egg yolks and decreasing the sugar and dairy. The result is a delicate, eggy custard with only a gentle sweetness, encased in a flaky tart shell. Traditional Chinese puff pastry is incredibly difficult to make. Using ready-made shortcrust pastry is foolproof and puts a still-warm, freshly baked egg custard tart in easy reach of everyone.

Ingredients: Vegetable oil, for brushing 2 sheets shortcrust pastry CUSTARD 1/3 cup (75 g) caster (superfine) sugar 150 ml (5 fl oz) hot water 2 eggs ¼ cup (60 ml) sweetened condensed milk ½ teaspoon vanilla extract For the custard, dissolve the sugar in the hot water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring to make a syrup. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, condensed milk and vanilla together to combine. While whisking continuously, slowly pour the sugar syrup into the egg mixture. Strain into a jug and allow to stand until the air bubbles dissipate. Set aside.

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

Lightly brush a 12-hole muffin tin or 12 fluted individual tart tins with oil.

Cut the pastry sheets into 12 even squares and press into the greased tins, trimming off any excess. Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.

Line the pastry shells with baking paper and fill with pastry weights or uncooked rice. Blind-bake for 10 minutes, then carefully remove the paper and weights and bake for another 3–4 minutes, until golden. Set aside to cool.

Reduce the oven temperature to 140°C (275°F) and divide the custard equally between the shells.

Bake the tarts on the lowest shelf of your oven for 20–25 minutes, until the filling is just set. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for about 15 minutes. Enjoy the custard tarts while they’re warm.

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Beijing hot chicken Serves 4 I had a theory: If you put chicken through the same three-day process as Nashville hot chicken (brining, buttermilk brining, and then dredging), but swapped the cayenne, paprika, onion and garlic for a deeply aromatic Northern Chinese spice mix, it could be pretty good. While we’re at it, why not use the Korean technique of dredging and frying, too? That could be REALLY good.

It wasn’t just good, it was utterly glorious. The potato-starch dredge became an incredibly light and crispy (not hard and crunchy) coating. The double-frying technique was so effective that the chicken was still crispy the next day. The intensity of the spices in the buttermilk brine penetrated right into the chicken, resulting in perfectly seasoned, tender bites. Then, of course, there was the spice mix, that magnificent spice mix. The warm, roasty aromas of cumin, garlic and chilli take you right to the smoky back alleys of Beijing, where this same spice mix is dusted over crisp charcoal-roasted meats.

I also managed to cut a whole day out of the traditional Nashville process by condensing it into two steps. On day 1, you make the buttermilk brine and submerge the chicken in it. On day 2, you dredge and fry. The spiciness can be adjusted to suit your personal preference, as the chicken is well seasoned even before you coat it in the chilli oil and spice mix. When I make fried chicken at home, I always do half plain, half spicy, so it’s not all pain and suffering. I eat my fried chicken between two slices of fluffy white bread, with tiny pickled green chillies, mayo and a wedge of lettuce to cool the burn. How you choose to eat yours is entirely up to you.

Ingredients: Vegetable oil, for deep-frying 2 tablespoons chilli oil (see Chilli Oil recipe pg 87 or use Lao Gan Ma chilli oil) 1 teaspoon salt Buttermilk brine 4 cups (1 litre) buttermilk 2 tablespoons salt 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons Sichuan or regular chilli powder 8 skinless chicken thigh fillets Beijing spice mix 2 teaspoons white peppercorns 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns 3 teaspoons cumin seeds 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 teaspoons Sichuan or regular chilli powder 2 teaspoons chilli flakes Potato-flour dredge 1½ cups (265 g) potato flour (potato starch) ½ cup (75 g) plain (all-purpose) flour 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon salt Method: Day 1 To make the buttermilk brine, combine the buttermilk, salt, chicken bouillon powder, garlic powder and chilli powder in a large bowl or container. Ensure the container is deep enough so that the chicken will be completely submerged.

Place the chicken thighs into the buttermilk brine, cover and refrigerate for 12–24 hours.

Day 2 To make the Beijing spice mix, heat a small frying pan over low heat and toast the white and Sichuan peppercorns and cumin seeds, moving the pan continuously so that the spices toast evenly. When the spices are lovely and aromatic, add the garlic powder, chilli powder and chilli flakes and toast gently for 30 seconds.

Allow the spices to cool, then grind them into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle.

To make the potato-flour dredge, combine the potato flour, plain flour, black pepper and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.

Heat at least 6 cm (2½ inches) of vegetable oil in a large heavy-based saucepan to 160°C (215°F), using a food thermometer to check the temperature. Lift each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk brine and shake off the excess. Thoroughly coat the chicken in the potato-flour dredge, then carefully lower into the oil. Fry the chicken in batches, making sure the pieces don’t touch each other or stick to the bottom of the pan. Fry for 5–6 minutes, until the crust is just set. Transfer to a wire rack to rest while the remaining chicken is fried.

When all of the pieces have been fried once, fry each batch a second time, until the coating is extra crispy, 6–7 minutes. Potato flour does not brown like plain flour does, so don’t attempt to fry until golden. When you tap the coating and it is hard and crisp, the chicken is ready to drain on a wire rack. Reserve ½ cup (125 ml) of the hot frying oil.

Place 2 tablespoons of the Beijing spice mix in a heatproof bowl with the reserved frying oil, chilli oil and salt, and mix to combine. Add 2 chicken pieces to the bowl at a time and toss to coat in the spice and oil mix. Return the chicken to the wire rack and sprinkle generously with the remaining Beijing spice mix.

Serve hot.

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Chilli oil Makes 1½ cups (375 ml) The common Chinese name for chilli oil – hong you (红油 (红油), ), or ‘red oil’ – is a reference to its astonishingly vibrant colour. In its purest form. chilli oil is made by pouring hot oil over crushed dried chillies and leaving them to infuse. I like mine with heaps of salty sediment, and this recipe ensures the maximum amount of ‘bits’ at the bottom of the jar.

I’ve divided the recipe into parts for clarity. Try to track down dried Sichuan chillies. If you can’t, that’s fine, but remember the heat will vary. There are a few varieties available, ranging from moderate to very spicy, and your local Asian grocer should stock at least one of them.

Ingredients: Part 1 40 g (1½ oz) dried Sichuan chillies, or other dried chillies 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns Part 2 10 fresh red chillies, topped 3 cloves garlic, peeled 3 cm (1¼ inch) piece ginger, peeled ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons caster (superfine) sugar Part 3 1 spring onion (scallion), white part only 1½ cups (375 ml) vegetable oil 3 cm (1¼ inch) piece ginger, skin on, sliced 2 star anise 1 black cardamom pod

Method: Part 1 Use a pair of sharp kitchen scissors to cut the dried chillies into small pieces. Heat the oil in a wok or frying pan and fry the chillies and peppercorns over low heat until they are fragrant and the chillies have turned a deep red. Keep moving the chillies and be extremely careful not to burn them. Allow to cool, then crush using a mortar and pestle.

Transfer to a bowl.

Part 2 Place the fresh chillies, garlic and ginger in a food processor and blitz to combine.

Warm the oil in a small saucepan and add the chilli mixture. Fry over low heat until the moisture evaporates, 5–6 minutes. Allow to cool, then stir through the salt and sugar. Combine this mixture with the dried chilli mixture in a heatproof bowl and set aside.

Part 3 Cut the white spring onion into large pieces. Don’t cut the pieces too small, or they will cook too quickly and burn.

Pour the oil into a large saucepan that can hold double its volume (as the oil will bubble up) and place over medium heat. Add the spring onion and ginger and fry until golden, then remove from the oil and discard.

Add the star anise and cardamom to the oil and fry over low heat until fragrant. At this point, the oil should be very hot. Pour half the oil over the chilli mixture and stir. Wait 5–6 minutes for the oil to cool slightly, then pour the remaining oil over the chilli mixture.

Once the chilli oil is completely cooled, remove the star anise and cardamom and discard. Cover the oil and leave overnight at room temperature.

The next day, the oil should have turned a dark red colour. Pour into a sterilised airtight container or jar and store in a cool dark place for up to 3 months.

Try this chilli oil on avocado and feta toast, on pasta, or mixed with Chinkiang black vinegar and soy sauce for a classic dumpling dipping sauce.

Chinese-ish celebrates the confident blending of culture and identity through food: take what you love and reject what doesn't work for you. In these pages you'll find a bounty of inauthentic Chinese-influenced dishes from all over Southeast Asia, including the best rice and noodle dishes, wontons and dumplings, classic Chinese mains and even a Sichuan Sausage Sanga that would sit proudly at any backyard barbie. There are also plenty of tips and shortcuts to demystify any tricky-sounding techniques, and reassuring advice on unfamiliar ingredients and where to find them.

Murdoch Books RRP $39.99

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The Luxe Guide to Port Douglas

With World Heritage Listed UNESCO sites and being the first eco-certified destination in Australia, Port Douglas and surrounds really is the ideal place for rest and relaxation with a side dose of adventure. Check out ele HOME’s luxe guide to this fabulous destination.

Mossman Paddle Boarding Image: TTNQ People on boat – Sailaway’s Sunset Sail Image: TTNQ River Drift Snorkelling with Back Country Bliss Relaxation has taken on a new soundtrack drifting down the Mossman River with a chorus of birdsong, the gentle babble of the river and soft hum of cicadas filling the air. You’re on a raft floating down translucent water which gains its only colour from the reflection of nature’s cathedral – the rainforest canopy above. Dive below the surface, where you can explore the underwater world with a mask and snorkel to spot turtles and over 33 species of fish.

Pavilion walk – Sheraton Grand Mirage Image: TTNQ

Sailaway’s Sunset Sail Relax and unwind as you set sail around the coast of Port Douglas, watching the sun fade behind the mountains of the Daintree Rainforest. You’ll be welcomed aboard with a complimentary drink and a selection of hot and cold canapes as you enjoy this relaxing way to end your day.

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort The iconic resort boasts over two hectares of shimmering lagoon pools, complete with private cabanas, a swim up bar and sandy beaches. If you’d prefer the real deal, it’s conveniently located along the famous Four Mile Beach. While the pinnacle of luxury might be their presidential suite, each one of their 295 beautifully appointed rooms, will be sure to impress from tropical garden views, swim-out rooms to balconies capturing the cool sea breeze. You’ll also find the award-winning Harrisons by Spencer Patrick restaurant positioned along the lagoon pool, and an 18-hole golf course complete with an aquatic driving range and views to the Daintree Rainforest.

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Silky Oaks Lodge When it comes to falling asleep to the sound of the rainforest, Silky Oaks Lodge deliver in the most luxurious way possible. Adjacent to the ancient Daintree rainforest on the Mossman River, this retreat is truly where the old meets the new, having just had a multi-million dollar rebuild. Lodging options range from a king bed retreat to a two ensuite bedroom pavilion complete with a plunge pool and multi open-air lounging areas. Each suite is garnished with luxurious touches, such as breezy hammocks, outdoor showers and fireplaces.

Flagstaff Hill Image: TTNQ

Cabin Black – Silky Oaks Lodge

Osprey’s Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve.

Guide leading people and greenants - Walkabout Cultural Adventures Enjoy a private tour at Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas Enjoy the ultimate animal experience with a 2 hour personalised private tour of Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas. With a wildlife keeper leading the way, you can get up close and personal with the animals. Capture those picture-perfect moments feeding wallabies and cassowaries. Plus, tick off that bucket-list item of getting a photo with a koala.

Pool with pillars – Pullman Port Douglas

Southern Cassowary at Wildlife Habitat Image:TTNQ

Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa Located on Four Mile Beach, Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa has been designed with the utmost luxury and relaxation in mind. Set amidst a tropical oasis, this spectacular resort blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape; luxuriously designed with oriental accents and sandstone pillars that are echoed throughout the resort.

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Explore the Daintree Rainforest Just north of Port Douglas, you’ll find the most famed area of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, the Daintree Rainforest. You’ll find the crystal-clear waters of Mossman Gorge a short 20 minutes drive from Port Douglas. Be welcomed to country with a traditional smoking ceremony and discover the culture and traditions of the Kuku Yalanji Traditional Custodians on a guided Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk that meanders through the rainforest surrounding Mossman Gorge. To head further into the depths of the Daintree, jump aboard a day tour from Port Douglas with Daintree Tours or Jungle Tours & Trekking. These explore highlights of Daintree and Cape Tribulation including Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation Beach, Mount Alexandra Lookout and croc spotting tours; all the while keeping an eye out for the elusive dinosaur-like bird, the Southern Cassowary.

Lady at table = Niramaya Villas & Spa

Daintree River Image: TTNQ

Niramaya Villas & Spa This luxury self-contained accommodation in Port Douglas is designed for rest and rejuvenation, set amongst 15 hectares of lush, landscaped gardens, all designed to make shoulders drop. Enjoy swimming with 30m of infinity edge pool. The only thing left to do on your holiday agenda is to swan between a pool lounge, the onsite day spa and your private villa.

Thala Beach Nature Reserve Stay on a private peninsula in a bungalow nestled amongst the trees at the deluxe eco-retreat located along the Great Barrier Reef Drive near Port Douglas. Upon arrival venture upstairs to Osprey’s Restaurant to see the expansive views over the Coral Sea unfold in front of your eyes before feasting on the menu focussing on local seasonal produce. Awarded the highest Ecotourism accreditation for maximising informative and meaningful experiences, Thala Beach provides complimentary tours to guests.

Lady on stairs – Thala Beach Nature Reserve Image: TTNQ Flagstaff Hill x 2 Image: TTNQ

Kids in river – River Drift Snorkelling Image: TTNQ Flagstaff Hill Walking Trail Linking Four Mile Beach to Rex Smeal Park and Little Cove, the 1.3km walking trail of Flagstaff Hill is an easy and spectacular way for you to get the body moving after your holiday indulgence. You’ll be greeted with views over the Coral Sea, to the Low Isles and Snapper Island, and the golden sands of Four Mile Beach. Tip: Wear walking shoes. While the trail is graded easy, it does get steep in parts and good shoes are recommended.

Walkabout Cultural Adventures Spend a day learning the traditional hunting and gathering techniques of the coastal and rainforest Kuku Yalanji people. Venture into the mangroves in search of mud crabs and collect shellfish in tidal pools at Cooya Beach north of Port Douglas. If your hunt proves fruitful, your catch will be cooked fresh for you to enjoy; hopefully with the addition of a succulent mud crab. Continue your journey to the Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge sampling bush tucker and learning the bush medicines that have been used for thousands of years by the local Aboriginal people. Don’t forget your swimwear so you can cool off in the pristine waters of Mossman Gorge at a private swimming hole.

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Guide leading people and greenants - Walkabout Cultural Adventures

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