
Sustainability &
in the
of Clothiers Creek
Sustainability & Community in the Heart of Clothiers Creek

Sustainability &
in the
of Clothiers Creek
Sustainability & Community in the Heart of Clothiers Creek
WORDS RACHAEL SANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY GEORGINA KANE
Raven Place Farm is a vibrant, community-centered micro regenerative farm nestled in picturesque Clothiers Creek, ideally situated between Murwillumbah and Cabarita Beach. This unique venture is a collaborative effort between landowner Michelle Kuramochi and passionate regenerative farmer Rachael Sanderson. Together, they aim to create a holistic sanctuary where people can gather to grow, learn, share, and connect. Raven Place Farm is dedicated to making organic, nutritious food accessible to everyone.
Michelle Kuramochi, the landowner, also operates the charming Raven Place Café, located right on the farm. Visitors can savour delectable coffee and a menu inspired by Japanese street food, featuring dishes crafted from organic, spray-free, and locally sourced ingredients. Michelle’s years of culinary expertise are evident in her handmade dumplings, gyoza, krauts, kimchi, and misos—all prepared with meticulous care and love.
The farm’s commitment to sustainability is integrated into every aspect of its operations. Food scraps from the café are repurposed as feed for the farm’s hens and worms, while coffee grounds are used as natural fertiliser. Additionally, the farm is exploring ways to further reduce waste through the use of reusable utensils and cups. The farm’s happy hens, housed in a mobile coop, enjoy a diet of café scraps, fermented feeds, and fresh greens, producing nutrient-dense eggs that are sold directly to the community.
Rachael Sanderson, the owner of the local regenerative gardening business Life a Little Greener and A Little Greener Farm in Kynnumboon, brings her deep passion for ecosystem restoration and community nourishment to Raven Place Farm. Rachael’s vision includes creating a farm that absorbs external waste streams through composting and large-scale worm farming, while sequestering carbon through practices such as multispecies cover cropping, livestock integration, diverse food forest plantings, improved soil fertility, and no-till soil management.
Raven Place Farm also serves as an educational platform, offering free open days, workshops, and farm tours to share regenerative farming knowledge with the community. In collaboration with the non-profit organisation We Forest Earth, the farm is dedicated to restoring the riparian zone using chemical-free bush regeneration techniques that incorporate edible and medicinal strains of native mycelium to phase out invasive species like camphor laurel and privet. This initiative not only closes nutrient cycles by converting biomass into food and medicine (mushrooms) but also increases biodiversity through the replanting of endangered and rare species alongside edible natives.
At Raven Place Farm, community flourishes through shared knowledge, sustainable practices, and the joy of growing together. Here, everyone is invited to connect, learn, and thrive in harmony with nature.
Raven Place Farm thrives on partnerships with local businesses like Spangled Drongo Brewing, a brewery committed to habitat preservation. Through these relationships, the farm accesses valuable resources such as cardboard, mulch, food waste, and pallets at little to no cost. These materials are crucial for composting, bed building, fermentation processes, fencing, and infrastructure, allowing the farm to operate efficiently and pass on savings to the community.
The farm’s dedication to the community extends to regular donations of produce to the Murwillumbah Community Centre, where it can be sold through their food hub or used to create meals for those in need at Nullum House.
The farm also operates a roadside vegetable shack, available during farm hours, where they offer a variety of regeneratively and organically grown produce at affordable prices. Local vendors are welcome to share their crafts, skills, and products with the community, enhancing the farm’s community spirit.
For those interested in collaborating with Raven Place Farm, please reach out to Michelle at ravenplacestall@gmail.com or call 0421 304 191. Join the effort to cultivate a positive impact on the community and the environment through sustainable and regenerative practices.
Welcome to Tweed Coast Living’s 12th edition, where we celebrate the beauty of sustainable living and community spirit. One of the main reasons I moved to the Tweed was to raise a family surrounded by nature’s beauty. Our pristine beaches, health-conscious community, and caring spirit all contribute to nurturing healthy children and fostering a sense of belonging.
Raven Place Farm, in Clothiers Creek, exemplifies sustainable farming and community engagement. Their commitment to regenerative agriculture and local partnerships sets a inspiring example for our region.
In our exploration of the Tweed waters, we highlight efforts like the new Turtle Code of Conduct, aimed at protecting marine life. It’s a reminder of our collective responsibility to preserve our natural wonders for future generations.
From ethical fashion to mindful eating, local businesses are leading the charge in promoting health and sustainability. They inspire us to make conscientious choices that support both our wellbeing and the planet.
As you delve into these stories, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey toward a more sustainable and compassionate lifestyle. Together, let’s embrace eco-conscious choices that nurture our communities and ensure a brighter future.
Together we have more,
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY
Esther Siebel, Ends of the Earth Imagery @endsoftheearthimagery endsoftheearthimagery.mypixieset.com
PUBLISHER
Deanna Cosme-Dufner hello@tweedcoastliving.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lyndsay Babcock, Trillian Fitzpatrick, Sarah Jantos, Libby Kilby, Kristie Morgan, Rachael Sanderson, Sami Vardy, Abby Wallace
TWEED COAST LIVING
GIVING BACK RECIPIENT
Fingal Head Coastcare Inc.
Email advertising enquiries to: hello@tweedcoastliving.com Ph 0403 085 650
Tweed Coast Living distributes 6,000 free printed copies throughout the Tweed Shire, 6 times per year. Find a copy at your favourite local cafe, salon, gym as well as holiday accommodations. TCL is also available via customised stands at main distribution points across the Tweed Shire.
Tweed Coast Living is a free bi-monthly magazine distributed to cafes, holiday management companies, resorts and via custom stands across the Tweed.
BAKER AND FARMER 1/10 Coronation Ave, Pottsville
CASUARINA HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PHARMACY
482 Casuarina Way, Casuarina
CHEMPRO CHEMIST
39/45 Tweed Coast Rd, Cabarita
COCONUT COFFEE HOUSE
2/14 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora
HEALTH FOOD CENTRAL
Kingscliff Shopping Village 22-28 Pearl St, Kingscliff
IGA TWEED VALLEY— MURWILLUMBAH
232 Tweed Valley Way, Murwillumbah
JET REAL ESTATE
Shop 1/41-45 Murwillumbah St, Murwillumbah
M | ARTS PRECINCT 105 Wollumbin St, Murwillumbah
MERAKI BLU
Shop 21/1-25 Bells Blvd, Salt Village, Kingscliff
MOO MOO ROADHOUSE
5886 Tweed Valley Way, Mooball
THE PAVILIONS HOTEL— TERRANORA
2/14 Henry Lawson Dr, Terranora
POTTSVILLE SPORTS
61 Tweed Coast Rd, Pottsville
RAVEN PLACE CAFE
4 Raven Place, Clothiers Creek
TUCKER
The Commons 1/489 Casuarina Way, Casuarina
TWEED HEALTH FOODS
Tweed City Shopping Centre
Shop 100 (btwn Big W and Woolworths)
VALLEY EBIKES
8 Railway Street, South Murwillumbah
Tweed Coast Living wishes to acknowledge the local Aboriginal people of the Bundjalung Nation as the traditional custodians of these beautiful lands. We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Disclaimer: Editorial and advertising in Tweed Coast Living is based on material, written and verbal, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions, or for the content and images within advertisements in the publication. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. The publication does not presume to give medical advice, be sure to consult your physician. All materials in Tweed Coast Living is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission by the publisher.
MEET FOR COFFEE, STAY FOR DINNER, WE GOT YOU COVERED
WED - SUN 5pm till 9PM
WORDS SARAH JANTOS & KRISTIE MORGAN
The past couple of months have been idyllic in the waters of the Tweed and surrounding ocean. With visibility of up to 30M it has been paradise in and on the sea for water enthusiasts including, fisherman, swimmers, surfers, snorkellers, divers and whale watchers just to name a few.
A recent, global dive blog listed Cook Island Aquatic Reserve as #7 on the ‘Top 13 Places in the World to Snorkel with Turtles’ highlighting a recent increase in visitors who enter our waters to interact with a gentle and ancient member of our community - the majestic sea turtle.
Research into paid animal encounters highlights that the motives of paying customers or casual visitors are often genuine. According to the World Animal Protection Organisation, most people who pay for
animal encounters have a pure interest in learning about the species or a genuine endearment to the animal that they are paying to see. Other research suggests that following up-close animal encounters, individuals were more likely to make lifestyle changes and engage in targeted conservation efforts. Of the many wildlife experiences available, non captive wildlife encounters impacted on individual behaviour the most.
As stewards of this stunning coastal environment, it is our collective, community responsibility to ensure the safety and wellbeing of these magnificent creatures. In a bid to uphold this duty, we are proud to announce the launch of our new Turtle Code of Conduct , a set of guidelines aimed at preserving and protecting the turtles that call these waters home.
The waters of the Tweed are home to 3 of the 7 species of sea turtles that inhabit the world’s oceans. These are the green turtle, the loggerhead turtle and the hawksbill turtle. All marine turtle species occurring in Australian waters are listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES ). This means that these species are considered to be threatened with extinction and are given the highest level of protection.
With increasing human activity in our coastal areas, waterways and our local aquatic reserve, the delicate balance of marine ecosystems is under threat. Sea turtles, in particular, face numerous challenges, from pollution and habitat
destruction to accidental entanglement in fishing gear. The need for proactive measures to safeguard these gentle giants has never been more pressing. Minimising stress on threatened species in every way possible is crucial.
As more people flock to experience our pristine underwater habitats and marine life, the new Turtle Code of Conduct aims to minimise one significant stressor for our local turtles. In short, turtles that do not feel threatened by human company in the water, can be more resilient to other stressors or negative impacts in their daily lives.
Our Turtle Code of Conduct is a collaborative effort u continued on page 8
Between July and November of this year, young local ocean conservation campaigners and brothers, Charlie, Flynn and Oliver (Instagram @Earthy Surfs), invite the community to help them in targeting and removing fishing line and other debris from the Tweed River mouth walls - the southern wall at Fingal Head and the northern wall at Duranbah. Charlie aged 11 years, appeals to the community by saying “If we don’t take action to help marine animals they might not survive. It’s like forgetting to take care of your friends underwater. Every time we collect marine debris we could be saving a sea bird or turtle from entanglement or from ingesting plastic.”
Containers and signage on the walkways to both rock walls invites walkers, fishermen, surfers and beachgoers to consider spending a few minutes collecting marine debris. A sculptural reflection of gathered debris is underway, to highlight the vol ume of marine debris that gathers along these walls, posing a threat to our local marine life. All community members who wish to view the sculpture as it grows are encouraged to follow the journey at Earthy Surfs on Instagram.
Fishing lines, typically made of dura ble synthetic materials, are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. However, this design innovation becomes a curse to marine life when lines are lost, discarded, or improperly disposed of. Fishing lines can persist in the ocean for decades, even centuries, continuing to ensnare marine life and damage fragile ecosystems long after their usefulness has ended. The threat posed by fishing lines and other marine debris is profound and urgent. Yet, with collective action and unwavering dedication, the Earthy Surfs team believes they can turn the tide. Flynn aged 13 says, “If we work together, we can make the oceans a cleaner and healthier place.... We must take care of the ocean, because the ocean isn’t only a source of life of marine animals, it is a source of life for us as humans. We need to respect the ocean and take responsibility for our impact”.
qcontinued from page 7
between community members, environmental experts, and local authorities. It outlines simple yet effective practices that promote coexistence with sea turtles and minimises human impact on their habitats.
The success of our Turtle Code of Conduct hinges on community-wide participation and commitment. By adopting these guidelines into your next aquatic adventure, we not only protect sea turtles but also safeguard the health and resilience of our local marine ecosystems for generations to come.
Charlie Cairncross (EarthySurfs), holds 872 pieces of fishing line collected from the Fingal Head rock wall. This marked the start of the Earthy Surfs Clean the Walls Challenge.
As we embark on this journey towards a more sustainable future, we invite all members of our community to join us in championing the cause of sea turtle conservation in our local waters. Help us spread awareness about our local turtle populations, or simply adhering to the principles of the Turtle Code of Conduct, every individual action makes a difference.
In the vast expanse of our oceans, every ripple counts. Let us unite in our dedication to preserving the natural wonders of our local waters and ensuring a brighter, safer future for sea turtles and all marine life.
Sarah and Kristie, are directors at Green Heroes for more information please go to www.greenheroes.org.au.
Textile artist Melìse Smith specialises in crafting exquisite creations from meticulously hand-dyed and stonewashed flax linen sourced from a distinguished family-run mill in Europe. Her artistic vision extends to incorporating exclusive remnants of natural materials such as virgin wool, silk, hemp, and mohair, sourced from prestigious French and Italian fashion houses. Each piece embodies a harmonious blend of craftsmanship offering unique, luxurious textures. the.bespoke.linen.co thebespokelinen.co
Maddisonbea Home stands as a premier destination for homewares, proudly established for a decade within our European-inspired building in Murwillumbah. We meticulously curate our collection to offer discerning homeowners a selection that enhances and elevates their interior spaces with style and sophistication.
9 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah maddisonbea.home
Located on the picturesque beachfront of Marine Parade, Kingy Collective is home to an ethical retail space, Tweed Valley Flowers, and Burgerlesque food truck.
The focus of the collective is on slow fashion, artisan and sustainably made products that range from clothing, jewellery, accessories, skincare, homewares, ceramics, art and gifts made in Australia and the South Pacific. kingycollective.com.au kingycollective
Nestled in Murwillumbah, you’ll find Little Love of Mine—a small boutique store with a big heart. We’re all about kids’ clothes, along with curated selection of “mum-friendly” womenswear. Proudly, we showcase over 30 amazing brands, with a special focus on local labels from our beautiful area, along prioritising natural fibres and sustainable fashion practices. littlelove.ofmine littleloveofmine.com.au
Making glass beads is an ancient artisanal skill. emubeads blends glass and recycled metal inclusions, creating mini glass universes. When combined with their own silver-smithing, beautifully unique jewellery emerges. emubeads’ RETHREAD workshops are an ecological response to the excesses of jewellery gathering in our jewellery boxes. Solo earrings and the loved, broken bits can be recreated into a fabulous new necklace. Workshop your old jewellery. emubeads.com emubeads
Sorella Kingscliff offers a carefully curated selection of beautiful and effortless pieces located at Kingscliff Shopping Village. With a focus on showcasing local products as well as distinguished brands Sorella is your one-stop shop for all things Fashion, Gifts, and Homewares. Visit us in the boutique and let us find your perfect piece. sorellakingscliff.com sorella.kingscliff
We also stock a premium range of quality luxury boho inspired clothing, jewellery, homewares and accessories with a strong focus on supporting Aussie designers, creators & small business. Our vision is to ensure every woman is left feeling beautiful, valued and empowered with each interaction. Mention this ad for 10% off your purchase (full priced items only) firelilee_boutique Firelilee Boutique firelilee.com.au
WORDS SAMI VARDY PHOTOGRAPHY KATY ARROWSMITH
As a young girl, I learnt the importance of looking after our environment from my mum very early on in life. One of my most vivid memories from childhood is of being upset at the foods we were not allowed to have because of their packaging. All the kids at school had frozen poppers and tiny snack size Nutellas in their lunchboxes but any requests for these received a hard ‘no’ from my environmentally conscious mum. Avoiding foods and drinks with unnecessary packaging, along with the importance of reusing, recycling and reducing waste were key messages I received throughout my childhood. Later in life I lived with a dear friend on Vancouver Island, Canada who taught me more about living sustainably and of
how the foods that we choose to eat impact on the environment. I learned that choosing foods that are grown locally reduces our carbon footprint. It sounds so simple, but prior to this I had never bothered to stop and read the little sticker on the fruit or the label on the meat that says where it had come from!
Now in my professional life as a Paediatric Dietitian, I have worked with children in hospitals for over 10 years. I have seen many levels of eating differences and difficulties ranging from little ones who are simply fussy to children who are so averse to eating that they require feeding tubes to enable them to grow. For some families, food and eating are significant sources of anxiety, making mealtimes stressful for both children and parents. When you’re in a state of stress, tasks like buying local produce, growing your own food, or reducing food waste can feel pointless. In fact, trying to minimise food waste may be counterproductive for dealing with picky eaters since one key approach is to keep exposing them to foods they dislike, which inevitably leads to some food wastage!
So where do we meet in the middle? Is it possible or worthwhile to even consider trying to eat sustainably while you are going through such a challenging period with your child and their eating? If your child is restricted in what they will eat, whether they are fussy eaters, or experiencing significant eating challenges related to neurodiversity, here are some things you can do to help them whilst still being conscious of our environment:
• Grow your own veggies – whether you have plenty of land or an apartment with a balcony, get your kids involved with growing their food. Herbs, green leafy veg and tomatoes are simple to grow and you don’t need much space.
• Get your child involved with prepping and cooking.
• Bring your child along with you to the local farmers market. Let them see, smell, touch all of the seasonal fruits and vegetables on offer. Allow them to help you choose free range eggs and meat from local farmers.
• Even if your child is a very long way from eating the fresh produce you are growing, purchasing or prepping, these activities are a great way to increase exposure and help improve your child’s relationship with these foods. It is also a wonderful way to teach your children about seasons and when certain foods grow. Without even thinking about it this will reduce your food bill, and reduce your footprint.
• Get savvy with your leftover food to prevent waste. If you are constantly exposing your kids to veggies they rarely eat, day by day they will get a little closer to trying these foods. Until they do, instead of throwing away what’s not eaten, put them all into a container and use them to make frittatas or omelettes, pizzas or add eggs, flour and cheese to make savoury muffins!
If you are at your wits end and don’t have the energy to grow food or take your kids to the markets during this stage
of your life–don’t worry! There are many other things you can do to help your family live sustainably.
Focus on making mealtimes positive, get the whole family around the table and connect with each other about how your day was, what were the highlights and the lowlights?
Try to reduce anxiety about what your child eats or doesn't eat, as kids pick up on these feelings which may cause them to eat even less.
If you are worried about your child’s growth, or possible nutrient deficiencies, get in touch with a Paediatric Dietitian so that you can figure out exactly what is missing and replace it. This can help to reduce your worry around mealtimes which, in turn will help your child gradually build a positive relationship with food.
Sami Vardy is a Paediatric Dietitian at Nourished Kids for more information or to contact her visit www.nourishedkids.com.au .
WORDS LIBBY KILBY
To focus your business on sustainability, first you have to be aware of the issues at hand: mass and over production, non-ethical standards, and lack of transparency in supply chains. Fast fashion and overconsumption are known for its damaging environmental impact and exploitative practices, including poor working conditions, low pay and forced labour.
Previously, we would have seasons of clothes, time to make a choice, be it personal or weather based. Yet, with the birth of brands such as Zara and Shein, we are seeing a new line of clothing almost every week. The availability of a never ending supply of cheaply made clothes, allows for the over consumption of bright new things, and inevitable additions to landfill when these clothes quickly fall apart.
While conscious consumer choices start at the top - with businesses that offer alternatives - it’s not as easy as it sounds. Due to our geographical location and minimum wage laws to protect workers from being exploited, it is more expensive to manufacture goods in Australia. Not every industry or owner has the business model to withstand the additional costs. That is why so many items we find on our shelves are made offshore.
However, businesses that wish to succeed and have a competitive edge, now face increased pressure from the public to take an active role in balancing profit with societal responsibility. Catering not only to shareholders, but to all stakeholders, such as: employees, suppliers, local communities, eco systems and even future generations.
Plenty of companies are willing to be completely dishonest with this kind of business model. Words like ‘greenwashing’ and ‘pinkwashing’ are all too familiar. There’s no shortage of companies willing to use these words of social justice, and ecological sustainability, to make a quick buck without changing awful practices. Whether it’s a little green sticker that doesn’t mean anything or a promise to be carbon neutral in fifty years, they fail to change their processes, placing the onus of responsibility on the consumer to assess the company’s practices before committing to a purchase.
“Overconsumption is a real issue that we’re facing globally. It’s essential to recognise the harmful effects of our actions on the environment, economy and social wellbeing.”
—Waste Free Planet
Thankfully, there are many businesses that now prioritise ethical consumerism and sustainability, such as Bilboa, The Sewloist, Genkstasy, House of Clare & Alice Nightingale. Each know that while it is a challenging journey for their business, they are seeking to end inhumane working conditions of overseas production lines, the disastrous impact on our environment, and to enable the customer to know where their purchase comes from. They believe small things make a difference, and they continue to contribute
their energy and integrity to generating long-term benefits for their customers.
Watching the documentary ‘The True Cost’ by Andrew Morgan helped open my eyes to the global issue which effects more people and countries than most would realise.
Now, while I am hardly a trailblazer of the ethical and sustainability movement (a few of my own wardrobe items were manufactured in sweatshops) I am fortunate to know and work alongside artists, makers and designers who live and breathe the values of sustainable practices, and to live in a region so full of revolutionary small businesses. These makers and artists go the extra mile to produce their products ethically, to ensure they’re affecting the environment and communities in a positive, mindful way.
It seems a simple idea, a way to increase happiness and love, is to buy well-made quality clothing or wares, whose longevity far exceeds those from fast fashion labels. The value in knowing where your garment or product is made, the stories behind it, and the name of the maker, allows for memories to grow.
With this in mind, as I reflect on the importance of making small and achievable changes in my own life which honour the values of ethics and sustainability, these are the top five ideas I will be seeking to live by:
1. Buy local and support small businesses wherever possible. This includes fresh produce, flowers, clothing, accessories, gifts and skincare. With so many businesses now available, the sky is the limit!
2. Research the brands I am tempted to buy from on social media and unfollow the fashion brand accounts that don’t have a strong sustainability policy.
“Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.”
—Anna Lappe
3. Be patient and intentional with my purchases. Give it a second thought, for example, ‘do I really need a fourth pair of ripped jeans?’
4. Stay focused. Make a list of the purchases I wish to make, so that when I’m shopping I can check that item off the list. And then care for that item better and for longer.
5. Buy vintage and second hand items wherever possible. Dig out my old items of clothing which - due to tiramisu - I don’t quite fit into anymore. Look at either on selling or altering them to fit once again.
The aim of this article is not to preach, but to allow for a moment of second thought, of choice. To understand that there are people out there with the same goals of sustainability and values as you. If everybody makes one better choice, buys from a local business, the impact on not just the business, but yourself, will be greatly felt.
Libby Kilby is the founder of Kingy Collective on Marine Parade in Kingscliff. Kingy Collective focuses on slow fashion, artisan, and ethical products, including clothing, jewellery, skincare, homewares, and more, plus fresh flowers from Tweed Valley Flowers and handmade burgers by Burgerlesque.
These local businesses from the Tweed region are leading the way in promoting health, sustainability, and environmental responsibility in their communities. One offers a range of healthy, eco-friendly foods with an emphasis on minimal packaging and sustainable shopping practices. Another specialises in organic children’s clothing, employing environmentally friendly production methods and supporting initiatives to reduce plastic pollution and plant trees. The third provides affordable organic groceries and advocates for pesticide-free farming and sustainable agricultural practices.
Read on to discover how these businesses are paving the way towards a more sustainable future, inspiring others to embrace eco-conscious choices for a healthier planet.
Photo by Korduroy Kidz @korduroykidz
BARE BULK FOODS In the heart of Cabarita Beach step into the Bare Bulk Foods community, where sustainability meets affordability. This establishment is dedicated to offering its valued customers healthy, high-quality, and eco-friendly products that deliver exceptional value for money.
In-store, shoppers will discover a diverse selection of nutritious wholefoods aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle. The product range includes organic sourdough, cereals, nuts, protein powders, alternative flours and pastas, herbal tea, coffee, and much more. The fridges are stocked with locally sourced superfoods, catering to the gluten-free and vegan community. Bare Bulk Foods’ artisan chocolate, often the talk of the town, is a must-try for anyone visiting.
Embracing an eco-conscious approach, Bare Bulk Foods uses minimal packaging, opting instead for biodegradable and reusable alternatives. Customers are encouraged to bring their own jars or use the store’s paper bags to package their healthy purchases.
Bare Bulk Foods eagerly awaits welcoming the community, ready to help nourish their bodies and show love for the planet.
| 39/45 Tweed Coast Rd, Cabarita
KORDUROY KIDZ is an emerging local children’s clothing brand specialising in organic corduroy apparel. What sets their clothing apart is a commitment to sustainability at every stage of production. From the cultivation of organic cotton to the weaving of the fabric and the final stitching of the garments, every step is carefully considered to minimize environmental impact. Their cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, reducing the risk of harmful chemicals entering the ecosystem and children’s skin while also promoting soil health and biodiversity.
Korduroy Kidz garments are GOTS Certified, meeting the high standards of the Global Organic Textile Standard. They are also OEKO-TEX Certified, ensuring they contain zero GMOs, pesticides, or other harmful substances. Each item is made with ethical and sustainable practices. With every purchase, the company donates a portion of its profits to initiatives that plant trees and remove plastic from the oceans. Their clothing is soft, durable, lightweight, breathable, and hypoallergenic.
www.korduroykidz.com.au
korduroykidz
YOUR ORGANIC HEALTH SHOP, located in Casuarina, was borne out of the study that owner and Naturopath, Michelle, has done around pesticide use in Australia and the health benefits of eating organic. It is purported that Australian farmers use up to 70 pesticides that are banned in the UK and EU. Australia has the largest amount of agricultural land and approximately $20 billion worth of crops cultivated in Australia each year are grown using agricultural chemicals and pesticides. Most Aussies are consuming these chemicals at every meal which is likely contributing to many health conditions.
Michelle hopes that by providing an affordable organic supermarket to Casuarina and surrounds, people will choose to source out fresh organic food as a priority. It is also vital to support Organic/BioDynamic farmers who invest in sustainable practices, as this will be the difference in the longevity of our beautiful planet and our people. Our government needs to also get onboard by investing in programs to assist farmers to move to organic and biodynamic practices. If we choose organic, this could go some of the way to see the change we need for a sustainable planet. For affordable organic groceries including fresh organic fruit and veggies, drop in to Your Organic Health Shop, Casuarina Shopping Village, 482 Casuarina Way, Casuarina. www.yourorganichealthshop.au yourorganichealthshop
WORDS LYNDSAY BABCOCK
We often hear that men should “open up” and “be vulnerable,” but what does that really mean in a world that’s constantly pushing men to their limits? Men’s mental health isn’t just about combating depres sion or anxiety; it’s about redefining what it means to live a balanced, meaningful life in the modern age.
There’s a pervasive myth that men need to be perpet ually strong. Strength is often equated with silence, with enduring hardships without flinching. But this concept of strength is not only outdated; it’s harmful. True strength lies in acknowledging our limits, in recognising that we are not machines but humans with a complex array of emotions and needs.
Consider the daily pressures: the expectation to excel at work, to provide for a family, to maintain friendships, and to stay physically fit. These demands create a re lentless pace that leaves little room for self-reflection or emotional health. Men are often taught to ignore their own needs to meet these external demands, leading to a life that is out of balance and, ultimately, unsustainable.
Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from adversity; it’s about adapting to change and finding a sustainable way to navigate life’s challenges. For men, this means redefining resilience to include emotional awareness and self-care.
Self-care for men involves prioritising mental and physical wellbeing through activities that foster relaxation, self-aware ness, and personal growth. This can include practices like engaging in creativity, regular exercise, mindfulness or medi tation, and seeking emotional support when needed.
It’s also about recognising the importance of rest, healthy boundaries, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and fulfilment
One often overlooked aspect of mental health is the importance of creativity and play. Men are frequently caught in the grind, their lives reduced to a series of tasks and responsibilities. But what if we saw play and creativity as essential components of mental health?
The Northern Rivers offers us wonderful opportunities to engage in creative activities—whether it’s painting, writing, playing music, or even building something with your hands— there are so many creative options that can be incredibly therapeutic.
Engaging in these activities offers a way to express
Traditional masculinity often leaves little room for vulnerability or emotional expression.
ties to connect mind to body, where nature becomes your gym and the landscape your inspiration. Here, exercise isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s about finding freedom, clarity, and connection.
Traditional masculinity often leaves little room for vulnerability or emotional expression. But challenging these norms doesn’t mean abandoning all aspects of masculinity; it means expanding our understanding of what it means to be a man.
Men can be strong and compassionate, resilient and open-hearted. It’s about integrating these qualities rather than seeing them as mutually exclusive. This shift in perspective can lead to healthier relationships, both with others and with oneself.
The narrative around men’s mental health needs to
change. It’s not just about preventing crises but about fostering a deeper sense of wellbeing.
This involves:
• Embracing Emotional Literacy: Teaching men to recognise and articulate their emotions from a young age. This can be through education, parenting, and community support.
• Valuing Rest and Recovery: Understanding that rest is not a luxury but a necessity. Encouraging practices that promote mental and physical recovery can lead to more balanced lives.
• Building Community: Creating spaces where men can connect authentically. This could be through support groups, social clubs, or community events focused on mental health.
• Promoting Professional Help: Normalising therapy and other forms of professional support as proactive measures rather than last resorts.
• Men’s mental health is a complex issue that requires a fresh perspective. It’s about more than just “opening up”; it’s about creating a life that allows for balance, creativity, and emotional depth.
By challenging outdated notions of masculinity and embracing a more holistic approach to well-being, we can build a society where men are not only surviving but thriving. Let’s start the conversation and keep it going, not just for the sake of men, but for the health of our entire community.
Babcock is Principal Psychologist and Director of The Self Centre Psychology.
The Tomorrow Man team, together with Pottsville Community Hall warmly invites you to an enlightening evening. Join us for a transformative experience as we delve into candid conversations about the evolving landscape of masculinity. Together, we’ll challenge outdated stereotypes that impact our mates, dads, sons, teammates, and brothers, exploring what it truly means to be a man in today’s world.
6:30PM FRI 2 AUG
This exclusive men-only event provides a safe space to discuss openly and honestly, confronting the realities and statistics that shape our lives. It’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share perspectives, and forge deeper bonds. Bring along a friend to share in the camaraderie and light-hearted moments that are sure to punctuate our discussions.
Join us for an engaging & impactful workshop to explore men’s mental health and how we can better look after ourselves, our mates, our families and our community of Pottsville, exploring what tomorrow's man might look like
POTTSVILLE BEACH COMMUNITY HALL
1 TWEED COAST RD, POTTSVILLE NSW
DOORS OPEN AT 6:00PM LIGHT SNACKS AND SOFT DRINKS PROVIDED FROM 6PM
Expect an evening filled with meaningful dialogue, where you’ll gain practical insights and tools to enhance your personal wellbeing and strengthen your relationships. Together, let’s pave the way for a healthier, more supportive future for ourselves, our mates, and our families.
Date: Friday, 2nd August
Time: Starts at 6:30pm (Doors open at 6pm with light snacks and soft drinks provided)
PottsvilleBlokesNight eventbrite com au
Location: 1 Tweed Coast Rd, Pottsville
This free event is proudly presented by Pottsville Beach Community Hall.
WORDS ABBY WALLACE
It’s no secret that the Tweed is home to some of the most exquisite and untouched beaches in Australia and with 37 kilometres of coastline, it’s a surfer’s dream.
With surfing a part of the lifestyle in the Tweed, hit up any beach and you’ll see some seriously impressive talent.
Drop into Fingal Head and you may even spot 17-year-old local surfer Dane Henry who has been riding the waves of recent success in the surfing world.
It’s such an addictive sport and lifestyle. Once you start, you’ll never be able to stop.
Dane is currently number 17 on the World Surf League (WSL) Australia/ Oceania - 2024/2025 Men's Qualifying Series Rankings. The Qualifying Series determine which up-and-coming surfers qualify for the global Challenger Series.
“I started surfing when I was about three but I really fell in love with it when I was about 10, when I started competing. My goal is to eventually make the Championship Tour and make a career out of surfing, so hopefully that works out,” said Dane.
As a result of his hard work, Dane recently took home gold in the International Surfing Association (ISA) World Junior Championships in El Salvador.
“I ended up captaining the Australian team, we won the team gold and I got myself an individual gold medal as well. I also won the under 18 world champion title. It was an incredible experience.”
Although he’s surfed all over the globe, Fingal Head is always number one. For those that don’t know, Fingal Head is a hidden gem on
the northern end of the Tweed Coasta narrow peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the Tweed River.
“Fingal’s one of the best places on the coast. It's so beautiful with a lot of waves and not too many people,” said Dane. “I've grown up surfing there almost every weekend with my dad and those are some really special memories, it's such a good little spot.”
As a surfer who loves the ocean, it also comes naturally to care about the environment too.
“I always try to leave the beach cleaner than when I got there - it doesn't take too much effort to pick up some rubbish as you’re leaving the beach.”
“I’ve been to a few foreign countries now and have surfed in some pretty gross water. You have to appreciate the pristine water at home and do your bit to keep it clean.”
Dane credits the surfing community here in the Tweed and the Kingscliff Boardriders Club for being a stepping stone to get into surfing at a higher level. “We have so many boardriders clubs around the Tweed and Kingscliff Boardriders has been such a huge part of my development as a surfer, getting in the competitive mindset and having a fun day.”
Surfing is great for business and tourism in the Tweed, with new research from the Australian National
Bottom: Dane Henry who recently took home gold in the International Surfing Association (ISA) World Junior Championships in El Salvador. Credit: International Surfing Association (ISA) @isasurfing
University finding surfing injects almost $3 billion into Australia’s economy each year.
If you’re visiting the Tweed for the first time, surfing is a must-do experience.
“We have so many surf schools so just make the most of the water, hire a board or go out when it's small. The rock wall at Kingscliff is a great place to learn. It's such an addictive sport and lifestyle. Once you start, you’ll never be able to stop,” said Dane.
The popularity and growth of surfing is soaring. According to the Australian Sports Commission’s (ASC) latest national AusPlay report, an estimated 196,000 Australians 15+ have taken up surfing since 2019, the majority of these being female.
When Dane isn’t riding the waves, he’s training, completing his Certificate 3 in Fitness at TAFE and enjoying home life in the Tweed.
Dane will surf in the Peel Pro Junior in Western Australia in October, with points counting towards qualifying for the WSL World Junior Championships, taking him closer to his goal of cracking the Championship Tour in the next few years.
Follow Dane on Instagram @dane_ henry06
Abby Wallace is a freelance writer, copywriter and content creator based in the Tweed and works with businesses to find the words to tell their story, connect with customers and drive meaningful change. Visit www.abbywallace.com.au.
WORDS ABBY WALLACE
If you’ve been to Fingal Head, there’s no doubt you will have basked in its breathtaking scenery.
Conserving the natural beauty of the Fingal Head peninsula is largely due to Fingal Head Coastcare Inc., a voluntary community group operating since 1986 who work in partnership with the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council to restore flora and fauna habitat destroyed by sand mining in the 1960s and 70s.
“We are passionately dedicated to environmental protection but importantly, have a lot of fun together,” said Fingal Head Coastcare Inc. President Richard Roberts.
Highlighting their efforts, the team won the Tweed Sustainability Award in the Wildlife and Habitat Conservation category in 2023.
“As a result of our work in Fingal over 37 years we have seen bird numbers increase from 26 to 246 species. As well, our revegetation work has encouraged the return of many other animal species including echidnas, wallabies, goannas and more.”
“Although managing visitor numbers is an issue, there is still a wonderful peninsula for so many to enjoy – surfers, walkers, cyclists, sailors, boaties, whale and dolphin watchers, fishers and campers to name a few!”
“Many surfers have been involved in our activities over many years and currently two surfers serve as Coastcare Committee members. So, surfers not only love our beaches and surf... they love our forests as well!”
Find out more or volunteer at fingalhead.com or find out about other Tweed Landcare groups across the Tweed Shire at tweedlandcare.org.au/tweed-care-groups.
SANDRA GUY is an internationally represented, award-winning artist and educator of over 30 years. Sandra has a Bachelor and Master’s degree in Visual Art, having held many exhibitions including a recent solo exhibition in New York. Sandra’s “Unique Landscapes” based on the Northern Rivers can be seen at Studio 12, M|Arts Precinct, where Sandra paints, exhibits and sells her paintings and limited-edition Fine Art prints.
Studio 12, M|Arts Precinct, Murwillumbah www.sandraguyartist.com @sandra.guy2
HELEN OTWAY an artist and gallerist based on the Tweed Coast. Her artwork is found at Mist Gallery at Cabarita Beach, alongside many talented artists from the region. Helen’s artwork ranges from small oil paintings to large acrylics on canvas. Be sure to mark your calendar for her upcoming solo exhibition, ‘11:11 Hopes and Dreams,’ scheduled for October 2024 at Mist Gallery.
Mist Gallery | Shop 1B 51 Tweed Coast Road, Cabarita Beach @helenotway_art
Spanning across various mediums from ceramics and floral design to textiles and fine art, boasting international recognition and award-winning accolades, explore the artistic brilliance of our region’s talent up close and personal.
ANDIA CALLY takes inspiration from the beautiful caldera and coastal regions to create her abstract photography and colourful, mixed-media landscapes. Her work explores our interconnectedness with the earth and all its inhabitants. Her landscapes highlight the importance of our individual actions and the ripple effect they have on the world around us. Andia is one of 12 artists at Little Gallery in Uki.
Little Gallery Uki www.andiacally.art @andiacally.art
MELI AXFORD is an emerging artist who reimagines the Tweed landscape with her family in it. Meli’s work celebrates working class values using metaphors and symbolism to evoke meaning. She is busy producing work for her solo show at Tweed Regional Gallery in November. Meli has oil paintings and prints available for sale on her website. Follow her on Instagram for a burst of positivity in your feed.
www.meliaxford.com @meli_axford
LISA ROBERTSON is a textile artist specialising in micro-crochet. Her art is intricate, delicate and intentionally small to invite a closer viewing. Her pendants and wall art pieces feature exquisite shards of Victorian era sea pottery and sea glass from Scotland. By nurturing these fragments from history with fine thread, Lisa takes what is old and adds a contemporary twist to create something truly unique.
Studio 15, M|Arts Precinct, Murwillumbah Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-2pm www.funkybunny.com.au @funkybunnydesigns
The Wellness Co offers a boutique healing experience. Founded by Tina Webster, a certified therapeutic massage therapist and energy healer, locals head to her practice in Kingscliff to experience her luxury relaxation treatments. Tailoring each experience to the individual, expect Tina to incorporate intention, meditation, breath work, and spiritual guidance into your treatment. wellnesscompany.com.au the.wellness.co
Botanical Envy is built on the philosophy of delivering clean, ethical, skincare formulations to nourish and repair the skin. We use organic and natural ingredients that have been researched for their benefits, including a wide range of bioactive Australian Native botanical extracts. botanicalenvy.net botanical_envy_ botanical-Envy
Unlock your potential and perform at your best. With 20+ years’ experience as a Conditioning and Rehabilitation Coach and Exercise Scientist, together with his expertise in coaching meditation, mobility, and athlete wellbeing, Mitchell offers 1:1, Small Group PT, Holiday Sessions, Athlete Development, Custom Programming and the Meta Athlete Online Course. Health fund rebates may be available. www.mitchellwoods.com.au mitchellwoodsperformance
The Beauty Spot turns 10! This month we celebrate 10 years in business and what an amazing journey it has been. A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful clients and local community for helping us flourish and grow over the years and for your ongoing support as we continue doing what we love.
thebeautyspotkingscliff.com thebeautyspot_kingscliff
Become stronger, more flexible, confident and improve your health and wellbeing. The Village Gym Pottsville has a team of dedicated and highly experienced exercise physiologist’s, physiotherapists, and personal trainers to safely guide your journey. Premium fitness equipment, small group training, pilates, and a heated swimming pool are the tools you need to maximise your health. thevillagegym.com.au villagegympottsville
At Inner Pilates, delve into your inner strength, discover your true potential with personalised programs. Enhance core strength, flexibility, and control through regular Pilates routines, transforming both body and mind. Our tailored programs cater to every age and ability, guiding you towards your best self with individualised attention and care. innerpilates.com.au inner.pilates
Salty Sports Physiotherapy specialises in personalised services for active individuals, encompassing lower limb injuries, tendinopathies, post-operative rehab, shoulder issues, plantar fasciitis, and activity-related lower back pain. Our unique collaborative care model involves Robert and a multidisciplinary team of sports medicine experts, guaranteeing thorough support throughout your recovery. saltysportsphysio.com.au 2 Bells Blvd, Kingscliff 2487 (in Salt Gym)
AtPottsville Beach Public School, a commitment to holistic education beyond the classroom is evident as the school proudly announces the receipt of a 2024 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant. Valued at $1,000, this grant will fund their ambitious multi-purpose garden project.
The vision for this initiative is to establish an outdoor educational space fostering learning about ecosystems, sustainable food production, healthy nutrition, and First Nations’ environmental stewardship. Additionally, the garden will serve as a tranquil environment for students needing a break from indoor settings, encouraging sensory exploration in nature.
Students will actively engage in every stage of the project, from planning seed layouts suitable for our climate to germinating seeds, planting seedlings, garden maintenance, harvesting produce, and utilising fresh ingredients in school canteen recipes. They will also
manage composting and a worm farm, and organise a community market stall.
To realise this vision, the school is mobilising support from parents, local businesses, and community organisations through volunteerism and donations. Contributions will not only enrich student learning but also promote sustainability and healthy lifestyles within the broader community.
For those interested in donating items, please contact the P&C at Pottsville Beach Public School via email: pandc.pottsville@gmail.com. Heartfelt thanks go to Pottsville Community Garden, Pottsville Sports Club, Village Hardware, Hummingbird Bakery and Gelato, Landcare Australia, and Woolworths for their invaluable support thus far.
With optimism, the school anticipates that this garden will become a cherished asset, instilling pride among all involved.
Baker and Farmer, a laid-back Bakery/Tapas Bar in the heart of Pottsville, offers a unique experience from breakfast, with a delicious morning coffee and freshly baked goods, to lunch and dinner. With a South American influence, allow yourself to try our exclusive dishes, accompanied by a glass of wine or indulge yourself with the best cocktails and craft beers in town.
Live Music Friday & Saturdays—starting at 5:30pm Check our website for weekly entertainment!
WORDS TRILLIAN FITZPATRICK
Ihavelived in rentals my whole life and have never felt like I could ‘lay down roots’, so to speak. Or invest in the growth of something that I would surely be leaving behind. It’s only since tending to a small piece of land myself, I am realising how that mindset was limiting. It’s surprisingly easy and financially worthwhile just to add a few little things to your garden—whether it's pots by the front door or trays on the windowsill—that won't upset any landlords.
We are intimately connected with nature. There is something magical about consuming fresh leafy greens, herbs and vegetables that are minutes from being harvested. And it’s tangible too, with one study finding that tending to plants reduces anxiety, and produces a dopamine hit, which explains why many find it so rewarding!
An expression of gratitude for that harvest is felt at the table as well, which acts as a valuable lesson for the little ones. As the Bundjalung custodians of our land would agree, we should ‘only take as much as you are willing to give back’. Don’t get hung up on the idea of permanency. We, as
The ways in which to let your creativity thrive in a garden (no matter how small) is endless. I personally love to use herbs and flowers (such as rosemary, chamomile, calendula and lavender) from my garden to enhance body balms that I use on some of my clients. My husband makes chutney from our tamarillo tree for our friends and family.
Growing fresh produce for everyday kitchen and wellbeing uses is not only being eco conscious but can synchronise your body with nature. Tending to plants, even indoors, has additional mental health benefits as well, reducing physiological and psychological stress.
The act of rituals involved in being part of the growing process can make a big difference to our environment, our happiness, and overall outlook on life.
Trillian Fitzpatrick is founder of Soulstice Remedial Massage. You can follow her on Instagram @soulstice.remedial.massage
Chillingham Village Markets
2nd Sunday | 8am-1pm
Duranbah Road Farmers Market
Every Saturday | 8am-11am
Tweed Harbourside Market
First Saturday | 11am-4pm
Kingscliff Beach Market
Second and Fourth Saturday | 8am-1pm
Makers & Finders Market
Third Saturday | 9am-2pm Knox Park, Murwillumbah
Murwillumbah Farmers Market
Every Wednesday | 7am-11am Murwillumbah Showground
Pottsville Community Market
First and Third Sunday | 7am-1pm
Salt Village Market
Third Saturday | 8am-2pm
Uki Farmers Market
Every Saturday | 8am-12:30 pm Historic Uki Hall
Uki buttery Bazaar Market
Third Sunday | 8am-2pm
In this increasingly noisy world, it is getting harder to hear conversations – even for people with normal hearing!
Whether it’s in a café or pub, at a social gathering or sitting around the table with family at home when the TV is on; being exposed to other sounds we have to hear on top of the ones we want to hear makes listening difficult as well as tiring.
There are a few strategies that you can implement the next time you are trying to listen in background noise:
• Make sure you are facing the person who is speaking. Visual cues give us more information than we realise, especially for softer speech sounds.
• Good lighting will help you to see visual and facial cues.
• Be specific when asking people to repeat, eg, “What date did you say the party will be?” This helps them to know what information you have missed and makes their response easier to follow.
These strategies can give extra cues to help make sense of speech in conversation. However, if your hearing is impaired, these steps will not re-introduce the sounds that you are missing. Help is at hand though to improve your listening in these situations!
Professionally programmed and fitted hearing aids from Sunshine Hearing can comfortably and discreetly amplify the sounds that you are missing out on. We can arrange a no obligation hearing aid trial tailored to your needs.
We offer the following services:
• Registered provider of the governments’ Hearing Services Program for Pensioners and Veterans
• Fully or partially subsidised hearing aids for eligible voucher holders
• Free trials of the very latest hearing aids from Oticon, Phonak, Signia & Starkey
• Small and discreet, rechargeable & Bluetooth
• We offer something for every budget & type of hearing loss
• Comprehensive diagnostic hearing tests for Adults and Children of all ages
• Tinnitus assessments and options
Welcome to Ends of the Earth Imagery. I am Esther, currently based in Murwillumbah, but travel often with a missional heart and lover of Jesus. I am a couples and elopement photographer, but also still frame families, branding and businesses, holiday homes and weddings, and also do freelance writing. I love emphasising motion blur, golden light, and warm tones, intertwined in the intimate and cinematic. My photos have a nostalgic essence of storytelling, transporting you back to your old school photo albums and home videos on VHS. I am a down to earth, chilled and relaxed ocean dweller and coffee snob, and being entrusted with your special memories is my joy! Reach me at @endsoftheearthimagery on instagram and share the love or drop me an enquiry on my website www.endsoftheearthimagery.mypixieset.com
Witheriff Group provides a bespoke real estate service for clients seeking an enviable coastal lifestyle We specialise in beachfront family homes to coastal apartments, and we are here to help you buy and sell your dream property in the Kingscliff & Casuarina region.
Our team brings together leading-edge, award winning real estate agents, all united by a vision to do things differently We’re experienced in the deal and quick to react.
While we work fast and react quickly, it’s always with strategy, foresight and clarity. Our ability to push the boundaries on what can be done and how it should be done has seen us become one of the most sought-after voices in northern New South Wales real estate. But even as our footprint grows, it’s your vision that informs everything we do.
Witheriff Group are a family business, client focused and humble thus you will be in excellent hands whilst working with us. Your enviable coastal lifestyle starts with the Witheriff Group.
If you would like a free appraisal or have any questions about the Kingscliff & Casuarina area, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Contact Witheriff Group:
Nick Witheriff DIRECTOR & AREA SPECIALIST 0405 618 477
Carol Witheriff Sales Agent 0413 056 405
Jordan Brown SALES ASSOCIATE 0455 579 014
Brian & Denise Dangerfield SALES ASSOCIATES 0418 962 548
Peta Hunt SALES ASSOCIATE / SENIOR ASSISTANT / HEAD OF COMPLIANCE 0433 918 079
Bella Johnson SALES & MARKETING MANAGER / EA 0468 822 077
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