Peace, Love, Adam & Anya

I will always remember the day we approached Adam and Anya to be part of our 'Souls' project. Adam's genuine enthusiasm was truly uplifting. His innocent question about the cost was a beautiful, pure moment—one that no one had asked before. We assured them there was no cost to be included in our project, only the requirement of being a genuine Byron Soul with an open heart and a generous spirit. From that first encounter, we were drawn to their groundedness, wealth of knowledge, and humility.

What struck me most was how alike Adam and Anya seemed, not just in appearance but also in their essence and mannerisms. Adam, a Byron local, crossed paths with Anya when she was staying in his father's caravan. Their journey together began with Anya's passion for making sauerkraut, and Adam's eagerness to elevate it to the next level. Though there were trials and errors in the beginning—Anya recalls shedding tears over lost barrels of fermented sauerkraut—the rest, as they say, is history. Hailing from Russia, Anya's natural knack for crafting sauerkraut concoctions has become her legacy.

During a recent trip to Melbourne, I caught up with one of my favourite health gurus after six years. In our brief 20-minute reunion, I eagerly sought his latest recommendations. His response? It's all about the gut, and apparently, Peace, Love, and Vegetables, indeed!

Adam and Anya's passion for health is palpable, and they see their purpose as educators and inspirers in this field. Nutrition is a topic close to my heart, so I seized the opportunity to delve into their wealth of knowledge. Engaging with them was a profound learning experience, as they shared invaluable wisdom and insights.

Jingki

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Encountering Jingki promised to be an intriguing journey from the start, as I'm fortunate to have her as my neighbour. Most evenings, my senses are immersed in the aroma of smudging and the melodious strains of tribal songs wafting over the fence. My children are naturally drawn to spend time with Jingki, sensing her inner radiance like sunflowers turning towards the sun. One morning, after my children had spent time next door, my 8-year-old son inquired, "Mamma, are we sovereign beings?" His question sparked an engaging conversation, where I endeavoured to impart as much maternal wisdom as possible.

The children we are raising, both myself and my tribe, are encouraged to be open-minded free thinkers, questioning everything. My goal is to instil in my boys the ability to think for themselves and to understand that perspectives may differ. I want them to have the confidence to stand up for what resonates as truth to them, even though it's a challenging task, and I don't always get it right. Nonetheless, I'm committed to nurturing their innate intuition and guiding them to forge their own paths, free from external influence.

Jingki emanates wisdom, her voice resonating like a message from ancient times, a call from the elders. As we journeyed to our photographic destination, car after car would pause to inquire about our endeavour, drawn by Jingki's captivating presence. "Mother Earth only needed one of us to awaken and remember," she shared. "We are divine beings from the stars, custodians of this land. Our connection to everything is inherent, but we've been conditioned to believe in separation. Yet, the ancient teachings remind us of our interconnectedness, and people are awakening to this truth. It is our time."

Sitting with Jingki was a profoundly moving experience, akin to being initiated into the sacred teachings of life. Her luminous presence illuminated ancient wisdom, and capturing her essence felt like receiving a precious gift. Jingki is indeed a treasure bestowed upon us.

quote.....

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

— Margaret Mead

{Frankie god of hair]

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Frankie, a German native, holds a special place in the hearts of our town's residents. With a demeanour that's soft yet exotic, he adds a unique touch to our community. Getting a haircut from him is more than just a mundane task—it's an extraordinary experience, typical of downtown Mullum.

Known for his exceptional parties, Frankie transforms the quaint lane outside his shop into a lively venue, complete with his record system and often a quirky theme. One particular party stands out in my memory as a highlight, rivalling even the footbridge cocktail party—an event I eagerly anticipate each year. The atmosphere was electric, hearts were open, and it felt like a joyous celebration with our chosen family. Here in paradise, every opportunity to connect and celebrate is embraced wholeheartedly.

Frankie's father, trained by the renowned Vidal Sassoon, is commemorated with a framed photo at the centre of the salon wall. But for Frankie, hairdressing is about more than just cutting hair—it's about how people feel when they leave his salon. He's like an old friend who genuinely cares and takes the time to listen.

Whether I'm in town grabbing a juice or picking up dinner, seeing Frankie's face fills me with a sense of belonging and community. We're all part of one big tribe, navigating life together in unity.

blossoming bud.......

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ”

— Anais Nin

The Souls of Byron Bay project continues to unfold as a profoundly transformative personal journey, challenging old patterns of thought and behaviour. It requires a deep well of courage to step into the unknown and create authentically from the heart, tapping into the pure essence where true magic resides and continually unfurls.

Whether I'm having my fortune told, enjoying tea at Church Farm, dancing with Tommy Franklin, or sharing in the aftermath of a home birth with midwives, or even knitting with the Nanas, I am struck by a beautiful realization: we are all fundamentally the same. As humans, we share common longings and desires. This project has ignited a profound awakening within me, allowing me to fully embrace the depth and richness of the human experience.

Each encounter leaves me feeling deeply connected and grateful for life. It's the recognition of our interconnectedness and the understanding that we're all in this together that humbles me. Experiencing someone's essence, the very essence of their being is a profoundly moving force that touches me to the core.

These encounters inspired me to live life to the fullest and to embrace wild abandon as our natural state of being. Being in the presence of souls who have tapped into their core essence and found their unique gifts to share with the world feels like a divine brush with heaven. We all possess our own unique essence, our own calling, waiting to blossom when the time is right.

quote.....

My great great grandchildren ask me in dreams
what did you do while the planet was plundered?
What did you do when the earth was unraveling?
Surely you did something when the seasons started failing?
As the mammals, reptiles, birds were all dying?
Did you fill the streets with protest when democracy was stolen?

What did you do once you knew?

~ D. Dellinger

Mullum Midwives

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The Mullum midwives exuded a vibrant energy, each woman adorned with colourful personalities and a strong sense of compassion, strength, and gentle humour.

During our meeting at the hospital, two of the midwives were called away to attend a home birth in downtown Mullum. Recognizing the importance of capturing the entire group, the decision was made to change locations quickly. This moment provided a glimpse into the deep bond shared among these sisters—they are not just colleagues but a close-knit family, sharing a kinship akin to that of blood relatives.

As we rushed to the home birth, we arrived just moments after the baby was born. The atmosphere was charged with the energy of new life, making our brief window for a photo all the more special. There was no time to fuss over lighting or positioning—the moment was raw and authentic, with even the delivery gloves still on.

Afterwards, we gathered at the midwives' favourite café, leaving the remaining two to care for the mother and newborn. These midwives are beloved figures in our community, their lively banter and laughter adding a vibrant touch to any setting.

Witnessing the ancient craft of birthing women in action was truly awe-inspiring—a testament to the potent medicine they carry. It was a privilege to witness the magic woven by these extraordinary souls.

force of enchantment.......

“Creativity is a force of enchantment- not entirely human in its origins. Not entirely rational, modern or conventional, decidedly unscientific. ”

— Elizabeth Gilbert

In the span of a few months, Elle and I have encountered numerous individuals sharing that they had similar ideas to Souls of Byron Bay, or that someone close to them did. This phenomenon beautifully underscores the nature of an idea—it yearns so fervently for manifestation that it permeates the minds of many. Yet, it is the one who is prepared to embrace it, commit to it, nurture it with love, and see it through, who becomes the chosen one—or in our case, the chosen two.

I find it fascinating to view ideas as rendezvous points where the idea itself and the individual converge. It's akin to falling in love; barriers dissolve, and cosmic signals align, orchestrating synchronicities to cross your path. The idea persistently vies for your attention, nudging you awake in the dead of night, until you feel compelled to embark on the adventure it presents—or graciously release it, offering another the chance to embrace it.

Elizabeth Gilbert eloquently characterizes a creative idea as a supernatural, mystical occurrence—an experience transcending the ordinary. Creativity, she posits, is an enchanting force, its origins not entirely human, rational, or scientific. Ideas, she suggests, exist as disembodied energetic entities, separate from us yet capable of engaging with us on profound levels.

{Church Farm General Store}

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Church Farm General Store remains one of the most cherished shoots in my memory, marking our inaugural session and setting the tone with effortless grace. Nestled amidst the golden hues of golden hour, the serene ambience of the old church served as the perfect backdrop for our debut. Andrew, a local musician, and his family, the artisans behind Church Farm General Store, exude a rustic charm, offering divine soaps crafted from herbs grown on their Billinudgel farm, alongside their tangy gourmet sauce.

With each shoot, I delve deeper into the essence of souls, uncovering the intricate beauty that defines our humanity. Church Farm marked the inception of my journey to truly see people for who they are, beyond the facade. Beneath the veneer of perfection lies a realm of authenticity—a family living and chasing their dreams, one moment at a time.

The genuine affection shared between Amanda and Andrew left an indelible impression on me, a testament to love's enduring strength and kindness. Amanda, embodying both sweetness and resilience, stood as a pillar of strength, while Andrew's unwavering devotion to his family spoke volumes. Their story, devoid of embellishments, resonated with raw authenticity, a stark reminder that life's beauty lies in its imperfections.

Leaving Church Farm, I carried with me invaluable insights and a newfound appreciation for life's unfiltered essence. Life, I realized, is not about striving for perfection; rather, its true beauty lies in its raw, unvarnished authenticity.

{Celeste Twikler}

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Upon stepping into Celeste's home studio, I was greeted by an ambience of lightness and brightness—a true reflection of her character. I've always been drawn to airy, well-lit spaces, and immediately felt a sense of comfort and familiarity. Celeste's studio was adorned with collections from her travels abroad, intermingled with her own creative designs, infusing the space with warmth and personality. While Celeste's talents span various creative domains—illustration, jewellery making, and design—I find the term "designer" aptly encapsulates her versatile skill set. Like many others, Celeste made her cherished holiday destination her permanent home, adding yet another layer of creative vibrancy to our eclectic community.

In front of the camera, Celeste exuded a bright and bubbly energy, making her a delight to capture. Beyond the surface, our conversation delved into deeper realms—the essence of friendship, the ache of heartbreak, and the nuances of life itself. Celeste's personal motto, "Live by the sea, swear by the moon, love by the stars, care for the earth," resonated deeply with her ethos and spirit. I found it profoundly inspiring when a person's essence harmonizes seamlessly with their beliefs, mannerisms, and attire—a lesson beautifully embodied by Celeste.

compelled to capture....

“This place where you are right now, God circled on the map for you.....our Beloved has bowed there knowing you were coming”

— Hafiz

It has been a period of deceleration, of embracing silence, and of heeding the whispers within. With each passing day, the murmurings of my inner voice grew clearer, its guidance more resounding.

In 2015, I embarked on a journey to South America, a blessing that would prove to be a profound life-altering experience. Initially, I saw myself merely as an observer, tasked with capturing moments through my lens. However, on the second day, amidst the ancient temple of Sacsayhuaman, buried deep beneath the earth's surface, my existence underwent a seismic shift. Emerging from the depths of the temple, tears flowing, body purging, I felt as if I had tapped into something primordial—an awakening of the spirit, a remembrance of ages past. It was a moment of profound spiritual recalibration, a shedding of old layers, a reintegration of forgotten truths. My identity, as I knew it, shattered, leaving behind a vast expanse of space—a glimmer of understanding that all was as it should be, part of a pact made long before.

In the wake of this revelation, I found myself unable to wield my camera unless driven by inspiration, averse to any semblance of rigidity or constraint. I questioned my path, unsure of where it led. I withdrew from photo shoots, grappling with confusion, yet surrendering to the belief that there existed a greater plan, a path awaiting my discovery. I wondered, embracing the slow unfolding of events, grappling with bouts of wavering faith, forgetting the perfection of divine timing—each moment requiring the right conditions, nurtured and cultivated with care.

The inception of Souls of Byron marks a natural progression in my journey—an organic evolution rather than a forced endeavour. It feels like a delicate birthing, unfolding precisely when the time is right. At times, I sense myself as an instrument of the divine, guided along a path of openness and vulnerability, sharing stories that illuminate the interconnectedness and similarity of our human experience.

alchemy

I derive immense joy from creating Souls of Byron Bay, revelling in the exquisite details that render it truly extraordinary. Working alongside my dear sister, Elle, is an experience akin to alchemy—an effortless blending of our energies to conjure magic. Together, whether immersed in a photo shoot, wandering the streets of downtown Byron, or exploring a remote treehouse overseas, we embark on glorious adventures that leave indelible marks on our souls.

The laughter we share is nothing short of divine—an eruption from the depths of our beings, so deep that it borders on ecstatic. Tears of mirth cascade down our cheeks, and in those moments, I am reminded of the sheer beauty of uninhibited joy. I've learned that attempting to contain such laughter only amplifies its infectious delight—a gift meant to be shared, cherished, and celebrated.

Yet, Elle is also the person with whom I can shed tears—the release valve for my emotions, whether borne of happiness or sorrow. In her presence, I feel safe to express my vulnerabilities, knowing that her support is unwavering. Elle embodies abundance in its purest form, recognizing that my triumphs are hers as well—a testament to the depth of our sisterhood.

Our collaboration on Souls of Byron Bay is a testament to the strength and purity of our connection—a bond forged straight from the heart. As we rise together, united in sisterhood, I am reminded of the profound treasure that lies in uplifting and supporting one another. May we all be blessed with such deep and enduring connections in our lives.

dreamy pebbled heart

As we strolled towards the front door, my youngest, a spirited 5-year-old, began bouncing with excitement. "Look, Mama!" she exclaimed, pointing to a remarkable sight on the pathway: a large heart crafted from carefully arranged pebbles. It was a gesture so tender, it touched the depths of our souls.

What made this gift even more enchanting was the mystery surrounding its creator. In a community brimming with kindred spirits, any one of our thoughtful neighbours could have bestowed this delightful surprise upon us. As we marvelled at the intricately arranged stones, we couldn't help but speculate about the secret hands behind this heartfelt offering.

Even now, the memory of that pebbled heart fills me with warmth and joy. To the mystery, your act of kindness remains a divine blessing in our lives.

to heal....

For a Woman to Heal She has to feel Safe
For a Man to Heal He has to feel Heard
For a Child to Heal It has to Feel Loved
For a Couple to Heal They have to feel Connected...
For a Community to Heal It has to feel One
For a Country to Heal It has to feel Honoured
For a Planet to Heal It has to feel Balanced
For a Universe to Heal - All of these things must happen...

~ Anaiya Sophia

all i know....

All I know is to walk……

In this current moment, my path is clear: to walk. To stroll amidst the gentle caress of the warm breeze against my skin, to traverse through the whispers of grass blades and the swirling dance of leaves. All I am certain of is to breathe—steadily, continuously—to keep moving forward, one step at a time.

In fleeting moments, I discover tranquillity, a serene oasis where stillness reigns supreme. Here, all I know is to pause, to immerse myself in the hushed calmness, to simply be. I trust in the harmony of existence, believing that all unfolds precisely as it should.

my offering.............

I offer you a gift of love, as one who seeks and uncovers beauty. In every moment, I present truth through the raw, unfiltered layers of emotion.

I lay bare the inner workings of my being, allowing them to bask in the light of understanding. For too long, I listened to a faint whisper—an inner wisdom beckoning, a yearning for something more profound. I craved the voice of my spirit, hungered for the untamed essence within me. Since embracing my wild nature, it has been guiding me homeward, unveiling a radiant beauty and a newfound freedom in my own skin.

To my tribe, I extend my gratitude. Though our conversations may be sparse, we share a deep understanding, a silent acknowledgment that we are all journeying together through this vast expanse of time and space.

beginnings...........

Souls of Byron Bay emerged as a vision, a sacred canvas upon which to intertwine the diverse textures and narratives that compose our intricately woven town. Here, amidst this magnetic landscape, individuals are drawn together, experiencing a profound remembrance of our divine interconnectedness. It is a land that beckons souls to gather as a tribe, forging bonds of community and fostering personal discovery.

We hold the belief that at the core of humanity lies a profound yearning to express oneself authentically, to be truly seen and understood. Each of us desires a life rich with meaning, a journey uniquely our own. Join us as we delve deeper, sharing stories that plumb the depths of human experience, exploring the tapestry of richness and forging connections that transcend the superficial. In this intimate space, we welcome the sacred, the free-spirited, and the dreamer, inviting all to embrace a life of uninhibited expression where the boundaries between outer and inner worlds blur.