This year, in celebration of International Women's Day, we're introducing the talented and diverse women behind Bondi Wash. From our retail store to head office, we are proud to be a diverse and female-led business.
We asked the team what inspires them and any advice they would give to their younger selves.
Samantha – Sales and Marketing Director
Samantha is our new Sales and Marketing Director, responsible for bringing the Bondi Wash experience to life in new markets. With 15 years of experience in luxury brand management and an intriguing multicultural background—born in Hawaii with Chinese heritage, now living in Sydney—Sam brings a unique perspective to the team. She has an eye for design and an impeccable sense of style.
What do you love most about your role?
"I love working with great women every day, who are making things happen. I also love that I'm selling products that smell gorgeous, are completely natural and work so well. I can't wait until everyone gets to experience that."
Any advice for young women starting their careers?
"Be you, work hard for what you want and be grateful to those that help you along the journey."
Sylvanna – Operations Manager
Sylvanna joined the team last year, bringing a wealth of experience from years in the fashion industry. Her role involves overseeing our manufacturing, managing logistics, and helping launch new products. A lover of natural beauty and passion for travel, Sylvanna not only ensures the seamless operation of Bondi Wash but also embodies the essence of the Bondi Wash brand.
What do you love most about your role?
"Being surrounded by a supportive network of passionate individuals. It’s the respect and kindness we all share that makes me feel valued."
What inspires you?
"Experiencing and learning new things motivates me. A few things on my bucket list are to learn a new language (French), swim with Whales and visit Antarctica."
Jules - Head Designer
Jules is a multidisciplinary designer who has been working with Bondi Wash since the brand's inception - she designed the classic Bondi Wash branding as it remains today. A mum of two gorgeous little girls and a ridicuouly photogenic dog, Gary, Jules has a passion for exploring Australia and photography.
What do you love most about your role?
"What I find most rewarding is the opportunity to craft something from nothing, transforming blank spaces into engaging design. It's the joy of surprising and captivating audiences through innovative creations. I thrive on tackling challenges and devising inventive solutions to advance the vision. However, what truly elevates a project for me is the collaboration with exceptionally skilled individuals. their contributions enhancing the final outcome and making for an incredible end result."
What inspires you?
"Inspiration, for me, isn't confined to specific places; it's about cultivating the right mindset to perceive it. Maintaining a constant curiosity across various disciplines ensures there's always something new to discover, driving the projects forward."
Ellie – Marketing Manager
Ellie joined the team in 2022, after moving to Sydney from Tasmania eight years ago. With a background in Journalism, Marketing and Communication Design, she's a multi-talented creative with an eye of design and detail. When she's not behind her desk, you'll often find her playing hockey or attending a friend's wedding.
What do you love most about your role?
"The team! Belinda has created a beautiful working environment where we can have fun and be silly, but also put our heads down and work hard. I just love coming in every day and being surrounded by beautiful people."
When do you feel most confident?
"I feel most empowered when I’m off on my own, like when I’m traveling solo, and particularly when I’ve accomplished the goals I’ve set for myself."
Erin – Sales and Partnerships
Erin discovered Bondi Wash five years ago while exploring Oxford Street, joining as a Retail Assistant. Today, she's our energetic and chatty Sales and Partnerships Manager, bringing to life our most exciting collaborations. With the most sensitive skin in the team, she graciously volunteers as our head product tester to make sure our formulations are gentle and effective.
What do you love most about your role?
"Our team! They make it easy to come into the office every day."
Who or what inspires you at work?
"We have some very loyal fans of the brand - I always feel inspired when they express genuine love for our products. We put a lot of effort into designing the products and it's great to see our audience get excited about a new launch or something they haven't tried before."
Allison – Chief Finance Officer
When she's not looking after her two adorable little girls or making delicious healthy treats, Allison works as CFO at Bondi Wash, ensuring our numbers make sense.
What do you love most about your role?
"Working alongside such great women and having the opportunity to work in a small, dynamic business where you can really make a difference."
What inspires you?
"That, for women, the world is starting to change for the better. Companies (like Bondi Wash) are seeing the value of flexible working arrangements, which allows women to have a career, while still being able to juggle family commitments."
Ana – Store Manager
Originally from Argentina, Ana is at home in our flagship Bondi Beach store. Between keeping our customers happy, charming tourists and creating beautiful in-store floral displays, Ana our go-to for all things wellness. She's always offering tips and advice to keep our bodies and minds healthy and happy.
What do you love most about your role?
"I love the fact that I'm connected with and surrounded by beautiful botanicals and fragrances. Each day I'm discovering new secrets and benefits about the Australian botanical plants."
What inspires you?
"Many things inspire me: music, walking and observing nature, patterns, a conversation with a person I admire."
Maria - Product Development Manager
Originally from Spain, Maria is in charge of developing new products (for both Bondi Wash and Wash Wild), making sure they are not only safe and lovely to use, but also sustainable. Fluent in four languages and an expert in niche beauty trends, she's at ease working with our global team.
What do you love most about your role?
"I love bringing product ideas to life, embracing challenges, and learning something new everyday. It's very fulfilling to see a concept finally transformed into a tangible, beautiful product."
Enrica - Office Manager
Enrica is our talented Office Manager. With unstoppable multitasking abilities and attention to detail, she keeps our stores and entire business running smoothly. Originally from Verona in Italy and a lover of good food, she’s always the first to discover the trendiest new restaurants and boutiques.
What do you love most about your role?
"I love being surrounded by beautiful scents all the time but most of all working with lovely people in different areas."
What inspires you?
"I find inspiration from traveling and reading. Getting to know different cultures has always fascinated me and I think there is always something to learn. Japan is one of my favourite destinations."
Ella - Retail Assistant
Ella is our bright, smiley retail assistant - you'll find her in our Paddington store. Originally from Belgium, she's quickly embraced the laidback Australian way and is a natural with customers.
What do you love most about your role?
"Being able to connect with people and seeing new faces every day. Our customers are really serious about taking care of themselves and their households so it feels good to be able to assist them and offer advice."
When do you feel most confident?
"I feel most confident in new and exciting environments. I love to be pushed outside of my comfort zone. Now, being so far away from my home country (Belgium), I'm inspired every day by different people, lifestyles and cultures."
Belinda – CEO and Founder
Belinda is the founder and visionary of Bondi Wash, starting the business from her kitchen in 2013. She still runs the business and works with our product team to formulate and design every product to ensure they are safe and effective. She is passionate about fragrance and all things natural wellness - often bringing in a new home-brewed remedy or interesting botanical for us to smell.
What do you love most about your role?
"I love so many aspects of my job but creating the fragrances that might uplift people as they go about their day is probably my favourite part."
Any advice for young women starting their careers?
"Stay passionate and persevere. You never really know what you're capable of achieving until you're tested. Hurdles will come your way and it comes down to how you solve them and whether you have the determination to keep going. And if you’re passionate enough, you usually do.
My other advice is to surround yourself with people you enjoy being with. And have fun with your work. Nothing should be too serious."
Sara - Regional Manager Europe
Sara also started in our Bondi Beach store and now manages Bondi Wash in Europe, bringing our much-loved Australian products to all corners of the globe. A natural glamour and lover of food and wine, she's our go-to for undiscovered gems of Europe, from trendy cafes in Milan to eateries in the south of France.
What do you love most about your role?
"I most enjoy the opportunity to work with different countries and cultures. Each day is unique. What adds an extra layer of satisfaction is the fact that it involves a lot of fantasy and creativity, something I absolutely love."
Any advice for developing confidence in a new role?
"Becoming confident in a new role comes from persistence and celebrating your successes. Feeling comfortable in my new role came from successfully solving problem over the years, whether it was a logistical issue, or one of the many challenges of selling in the very regulated EU market. It's empowering to know that with hard work and dedication, you can overcome anything."
Jemma - Sales and Marketing Specialist
Jemma is our chief copywriter and digital marketing specialist, making sure all our communications are engaging and resonate with our customers. Between scheduling photoshoots and taking sneaky behind the scenes clips of the team, you'll find her by the ocean or rushing off to painting class.
What do you love most about your role?
"I love that we have so much creative freedom, no one in the team is afraid of taking risks or trying new things."
When do you feel most empowered?
"When I'm moving my body - whether that be swimming in the ocean, walking in nature or dancing at home with friends. Also when I'm having real conversations with people that inspire me or friends I love."
Kirsty - Digital Marketing Specialist
Kirsty is our creative and digital expert and go-to for all things web, writing and design. Based in Byron Bay and balancing her role as a mum to a gorgeous little boy, Kirsty played a foundational role in establishing the BW team. Embodying a natural and laid-back spirit, she was a natural fit for the brand from the start.
What do you love most about your role?
"It's so creative and diverse - I get to use and learn different skills each day."
]]>In celebration of International Women's Day, we chatted with Natalie Dabscheck, creative director and founder of MOS the Label.
A fellow Bondi-brand, MOS offers a relaxed and feminine take of bohemian glamour, creating timeless designs aimed to make women feel their best. During our conversation, Natalie spoke about her career beginnings, the philosophy behind the brand and her advice for balancing it all as a woman in business.
Natalie and the MOS team have kindly created a collection of custom hair scrunchies to gift to our community. Each scrunchie is handmade from leftover fabric from their latest collections - a beautiful token of the brand's commitment to sustainability. Throughout March, every purchase of Bondi Wash over $70 will include one of the scrunchies as a gift.
We really admire your community-led ethos and MOS the label's natural evolution towards a more sustainable design process. Can you share what inspired you to start MOS?
Becoming the founder and creative director of MOS wasn't so much my choice as my destiny. In the 1980s, my parents created the brand, Dolly Dolly from nothing - so I grew up in the industry I work in today.
Holidays were spent swinging from warehouse racks or watching pattern makers at work. Weekends were spent driving around Sydney while my mother merchandised stores. When she went on buying trips to London, Paris, and New York, I was by her side. After studying fashion at age 22, I launched my first brand 'bebesydney'. As my life changed to include two children, the aesthetic vision of the brand evolved too, first into Ministry of Style then MOS The Label.
My creativity, passion for design and the environment, combined with becoming a mother, led to the evolution of the brand. Embracing a more relaxed lifestyle and a focus on sustainability, whilst staying true to my personal values, has built MOS into what it is today.
Being a female entrepreneur can have its challenges. Have there been any moments that you've felt held back in your career due to being a woman?
It was a lot more challenging to be taken seriously as a woman when I started my career. Between gender bias and wanting to start a family, it was a lot. I had to learn to juggle a lot of roles after having children.
I found having like-minded, strong women around me helped me face those challenges - it's okay to have those. It's important to find people who can support you, build your confidence and talk openly with. Drive is also important, especially owning a women's brand. I'm quite a determined person by nature, so when I set myself a goal, I will do everything I can to achieve it.
What skills or personal attributes do you think help women thrive in business?
Drive, perseverance, a strong support network and effective communication skills. Building and nurturing relationships is imperative in business. We want to build a community with our suppliers, so establishing those strong relationships is key.
Being able to adapt, embrace change and remain resilient are all also strong attributes. As you mature, you bounce back quicker, it doesn't feel like you have as many setbacks as you get older. You're able to learn from mistakes and workshop how to do it better next time.
Can you share your creative process when it comes to creating a new collection?
I start by gathering inspiration at the beginning of each new season. This comes from a range of sources - a location, nature or new design technique. From here, the design team and I will look at the catwalks and trend reports and break them down into what is on brand for MOS. We then begin to conceptualise the mood, theme and colour palette of the collection and start sourcing different fabrics and trims.
We will sketch preliminary designs and create artwork for the designs before creating samples and fittings, and finally signing it off for production. Overall, the process can take up to twelve months from when a collection is conceptualised through to when the collection is launched.
Community connection is an important part of the MOS brand. How does this manifest in your personal life and how you do business?
Community connection is a principle that deeply shapes both my personal life and my business. By fostering authentic connections, collaborating, and embracing shared values, I believe we can create stronger, more vibrant communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Community and friendships are a large part of my personal life and I wanted to be able to bring this into MOS.
At MOS, we've developed a 'Homegrown Conversations' segment on our journal where we share local business owners in the Sydney area to foster community connection. As a business, we also relish the opportunity to give back through i=Change and actively involve our community in the projects we support.
We love that the custom scrunchies were a creative way to repurpose excess fabric. Can you share any other planet-conscious choices you make in your life and business - for your health or for the environment?
I'm always trying to promote a sustainable lifestyle with my family, such as prioritising organic food at home. It's through this way of thinking that I discovered Bondi Wash. When I was a new mum, I wanted to introduce natural products into our home and Bondi Wash were the first products I bought. I love the beautiful brand aesthetic and that they're always very transparent about what is in each product. But also that their products work! Now my whole house is made up of Bondi Wash - even for my puppy Nala.
Within the business, we're moving towards using more natural fibres. We're also working on our packaging to make it more sustainable. Our design team is always researching sustainable ways to produce fabrics, and this will continue to evolve as our business grows.
What is one piece of advice you would give to young women designers or entrepreneurs?
Confidence is key. Embrace failure as growth and seek out mentorship and support. Stay true to your values and don't forget to celebrate your achievements along the way.
]]>A vibrant and juicy summer plate featuring warm roasted peaches and fresh mozzarella, seasoned with native Saltbush and Mountain Pepperleaf.
It's stone fruit season in Australia, which means peaches are at their most flavourful, bursting with sweetness. A spin on a traditional caprese, this salad makes a divine starter to enjoy with fresh focaccia, or a sweet addition to any summer feast.
Our friend and renowned Italian chef, Enrico Tomerelli, served this dish at the Bondi Wash Christmas Party last year - it was such a hit that he generously passed on the recipe.
Roast peaches, honey dressing, buffalo mozzarella
SERVES 4
Ingredients
Salad
4 ripe peaches, halved
1 handful of marjoram or other herb, finely chopped
50ml lemon juice
1/4 cup brown sugar
Salt, white peppercorn, olive oil
2 100g balls buffalo mozzarella
1/2 bunch of basil
Pinch of Mountain Pepperleaf (Australian pepper)
Dressing
2 tbs honey
2 tsp dijon mustard
50ml white balsamic vinegar
80ml lemon juice
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp native saltbush
1 cup chopped eshallot
Method
Toss the sliced peaches in a bowl with sugar, lemon juice, a handful of salt and some ground pepper. Let soak for 30 minutes.
Lay the peaches skin down on a tray pouring all the juice left in the bowl on top. Roast for about 25 minutes until charred and slightly soft.
For the dressing, peel and finely chop the eshallots. Add all the ingredients in a food processor and blend until everything is well combined. Add the eshallot and mix with a spoon.
Transfer roasted peaches to a platter and season with the dressing. Gently tear the mozzarella over the peaches and top with basil leaves. Finish with a handful of fresh herb, extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of Saltbush and Native Pepperleaf.
Optional extras - serve with tomato chunks or roast beetroot wedges
Serve room temperature.
Recipe by Enrico Tomerelli from Paski, Sydney.
Image by Hunger Thirst Play
]]>Natural perfumes offer a return to the sophistication and simplicity of traditional perfume making, where the art of fragrance was intimately connected to nature. Made using pure botanical extracts, these natural ingredients boast captivating scents while offering positive benefits for our mood and well-being.
Typical perfume formulations often contain hundreds of potentially harmful chemicals, hidden under the term 'Fragrance'. Without legal obligation to disclose exact ingredient, manufacturers can conceal potentially harmful ingredients, posing risks to both our health and the environment.
Given that our skin serves as our body’s first line of defence, seeking out a cleaner fragrance for everyday is a worthwhile pursuit. The right perfume has the power to instantly lift your mood, inspire confidence or transport you to a special place or moment in time.
With a growing number of boutique natural perfumers to discover, the Bondi Wash team shares their current natural perfumes on rotation, from long-time classics to recent summer additions.
"I adore this fragrance – it evokes memories of summer nights with its captivating, feminine and gentle scent. It’s crafted entirely from natural ingredients in Grasse. I really like it because it reminds me of the shampoo my grandma used on me when I was a kid." - Sara, Europe Regional Manager
Notes: Lemon, Blood Orange, Almond, Tunisian orange tree, Ylang Ylang, White Flowers, Vanilla, Cedar
Vahy – Neon Neroli $240
"This is my favourite Neroli scent. Floral and soft but rich and complex – it’s like nothing else I’ve tried. It beautifully captures the essence of a warm night in Italy – so dreamy and summery. It also has great longevity for a natural perfume – one spray is enough to last me for the night." - Jemma, Marketing Specialist
Notes: Neroli, Bergamot, Orange, Ylang Ylang, Petitgrain, Vanilla
Samuel Gravan - Fleur De Elena $170
"I work with Samuel Gravan on the fragrances for Wyalba, and his most recent fragrance is my new favourite. It’s a delicate floral scent – lots of neroli and white floral notes but with earthy, zesty undertones so that it’s not overly sweet and overpowering. I’ve been getting a lot of compliments on it." - Belinda, CEO
Notes: Clementine, Neroli, White Florals, Rose, Santal, Benzoin
Wyalba - Firetree $200
"Wyalba Firetree has been my go-to fragrance for years now. Smoky, woody with subtle sweet notes that gives it a sophisticated allure. It's like a breath of fresh country air after a storm - I feel energised, confident and at peace all at once when I wear it. Perfect as a summer scent or a feel-good fragrance for a night out." - Enrica, Office Manager
Notes: Cedarwood, Amyris, Neroli, Juniper, Bergamot, Frankincense, Chamomile
Turkish Rose Oil $39
"I found this 100% pure rose essential oil at the Grand Bazaar when visiting Turkey a few years ago and it’s still my absolute favourite scent. I find it soft, luxurious and nurturing. It’s also believed to posses therapeutic benefits to ground the nervous system, open the heart and nourish the skin. I apply it to my pulse points in the morning or on the high points of my face before bed." - Ellie, Marketing Manager
Notes: Pure rose
"Like sunshine in a bottle – super fresh, wearable, and perfect for summer. I found it when looking for a natural alternative to the 'Who is Elijah HER' Perfume. Zesty, citrusy, and floral – it exudes a clean, expensive feel with a feminine touch." - Erin, PR & Events
Notes: Lemon, Bergamot, Neroli, Rose, Vetiver
ONE SEED - Courage $110
"Such a beautiful and balanced fragrance, I love it. It’s pretty and floral, with strong wafts of sweet Magnolias, but there’s a richness to it. Classic, elegant and understated. You can smell the different botanical notes and it’s super long-lasting." - Sylvanna, Operations Manager
Notes: Magnolia, Wild Berries, Rosewood, Violet, Vanilla, Amber
]]>As the beginning of the Lunar New Year dawns, we chatted to Nicole Zhang and Claire Chen from the Bondi Wash China team about the significance fof the dragon and the vibrant customs that accompany the New Year.
2024 marks the Year of the Wood Dragon.
The Chinese dragon ("Loong" in Chinese) represents the most powerful and only mystical creature of the twelve Chinese zodiacs.
"It embodies auspiciousness and strength, serving as a collective representation of imagination and creativity," - Nicole, Senior Marketing Manager for Bondi Wash in Shanghai.
Renowned as the creature that brings the most luck, the Year of Dragon is thought to signify a year of opportunities, making this New Year one that is highly anticipated and celebrated.
"It is a year for new beginnings and growth. People are encouraged to be creative and courageous. It is often a year that brings new businesses… and new babies. Every parent hopes their child will be born a ‘dragon’ – it’s thought to produce natural leaders and bring good fortune to the whole family" - Claire, Marketing Director for 1010 HOPE in Shanghai.
The Dragon is also a symbol of strength - it has represented imperial power since ancient times in China. The Emperor wears a dragon robe, symbolising their power and authority.
"Chinese people feel very affectionately towards the dragon. We refer to ourselves as "descendants of the dragon". There is even a popular song that will be played all through this year, "龙的传人" that translates to ‘Descendants of the Dragon’. - Claire.
The Lunar New Year is laden with traditional customs, centered around removing the old and welcoming in the new.
Cleansing the home:
Families will engage in some impressive 'spring-cleaning' ahead of the New Year, referred to as 'sweeping the dust'.
"It represents a wish to put away old things. It's a big farewell to the old year and a welcome to the New Year", says Nicole.
Hanging the 'fu':
After cleaning, people will decorate the house to welcome the New Year.
"One, hugely popular, is to hang the Chinese character fu (fortune, bliss) upside down on prominent places. It works as a pun, prompting visitors to remark: “Your fu is upside down.” Since “upside down” in Chinese sounds like “arrive”, the comment doubles to mean, “Fortune arrives [at your home]” – a New Year greeting to the household." - Nicole.
New Year's Eve:
The New Year’s Eve feast is a 'must have' dinner with all family members reuniting. Chinese try very hard to make this family event, often traveling long distances.
People from north and south China eat different foods on the occasion, and many New Year foods are symbolic. In northern China a traditional dish for the feast is jiaozi (dumplings), shaped like old Chinese ingots to symbolise wealth. Southern Chinese eat niangao (sticky rice cake), because niangao sounds like “yearly higher”, symbolising improvement.
"There is definitely no going to bed early. It is a night for family, food and we gift red envelopes. It is common as the night goes on to play rounds of Majiang ("Mah Jong"), where we gamble the money received. Fireworks are launched at midnight to bring good luck for the year." - Claire.
Lunar New Year's Day:
On the first day of the New Year, Chinese put on new clothes and wish each other good luck and happiness in the New Year. Young people visit their elders, and wish them health and longevity.
Ancestor worship varies widely across China — from sweeping tombs in the wild to worshiping ancestors in temples. Many (especially rural) people offer sacrifices to their ancestors in the main hall of the house, where an ancestor altar is displayed. Then family members kneel and bow in front of the shrine offering scarificies to show respect to departed relatives, from the oldest to the youngest. It is believed that ancestral spirits will protect their descendants and make them prosperous.
"Those who believe in the zodiac will discover their predications for the New Year, granted based on each animal sign. Some animals proclaimed as ‘winners’, with much luck to come, others will be warned to act with caution." - Claire.
]]>The good news is that you can protect your skin without the use of harsh chemicals. With the growing range of natural sunscreens available, we had a few of the Bondi Wash team research, test and hand-select some of the best natural sunscreens on the market.
Natural sunscreens are typically formulated with minerals that offer high sun protection, without the use of chemicals or harsh preservatives. Mineral sunscreens contain tiny particles of minerals, typically zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, that act as a physical shield to reflect the sun’s rays. They provide immediate broad-spectrum coverage from both UVA (long-term damage) and UVB (sunburn) rays - compared to chemical sunscreens which typically take 30 minutes to be absorbed.
A good natural sunscreen will often contain botanical extracts or skin-boosting actives to further nourish and soothe the skin. We also like to choose sunscreens that are labelled as ‘Reef Safe’. Many sunscreens contain ingredients that are damaging for coral reefs and marine ecosystems when worn in the ocean (which often means they aren’t great for humans either).
Look out for sunscreens made using chemical ingredients – in particular, oxybenzone (1), octinoxate (2) and octocrylene have been found to cause some worrisome effects on hormones and irritate skin. We also suggest avoiding sunscreens with added fragrance as these synthetic scents can often irritate skin and clog pores.
Natio Ultra Light Sunscreen SPF 50+
This is my go-to sunscreen for every day. It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing and doesn’t feel greasy. I use is daily on my face and keep it in my bag to top up if I have a long day in the sun.
A great choice if you’re after something to double as a primer under make-up. It’s rich and nourishing but doesn’t leave a white finish like many thicker sunscreens. I like that it contains natural antioxidants including niacinamide and aloe vera to give your skin an extra boost of hydration.
The Kind Sunscreen is my top-pick for an everyday natural sunscreen. It uses a zinc-oxide formula which means it sits on the skin acting as a barrier to UV rays, rather than absorbing into the body. It’s non-irritating, light-weight, and more affordable than many mineral sunscreens that I researched.
Avocado Zinc SPF50 Natural Physical Sunscreen 100ml
Another zinc-based formula that I tried and loved – made by a small Australian brand in WA. It’s full of skin-boosting ingredients including avocado oil and vitamin-E to nourish and hydrate. It’s easy to apply (you only need a small amount), fragrance-free and left my skin feeling glowy and soft.
Soleo Organics Everyday Extra-Lite Natural Sunscreen SPF30
This has been my most-trusted face sunscreen for years now. Made with truly natural ingredients, the texture feels a bit thick when squeezed out, but once on the skin, it absorbs beautifully and doesn’t leave a shiny residue. I have very sensitive skin and find this doesn’t irritate at all. It’s also ocean and reef safe!
Ultra Violette Fave Fluid SPF 50+ Ultralight Fragrance Free Skinscreen
I was recently gifted the Ultra Violette SPF50+ as a Christmas present and it’s become a new essential in my morning skincare routine. I wear the tinted fluid as it provides the perfect priming base under makeup. It sinks in softly and leaves my skin with a bright, natural finish but doesn’t clog my pores.
References
Hero image source: The Kind Sunscreen
]]>In the realm of coastal beauty, Australia's East Coast stands out with extensive stretches of unspoilt golden sands, crystal clear water and unique natural wonders. Whether you're planning a holiday to unwind or embarking on a weekend adventure, there's a treasure trove of pristine beaches to explore.
To celebrate the peak of summer in Australia, we've gathered a list of our team's favourite beaches on Australia's East Coast - each with its own unique beauty and unforgettable highlights.
1. Boomerang Beach, New South Wales
Enjoy the relaxed charm of Boomerang Beach, just a few hours north of Sydney. True to its name, this boomerang-shaped beach offers ideal swimming conditions at both ends, providing protection from larger swells. The idyllic northern end draws in surfers and families alike with soft, curling waves.
Image source: VisitNSW.com
2. Cape Hillsborough, Mackay, Queensland
One of the most secluded and striking beaches in central Queensland, just a short drive from the town hub of Mackay. Golden sands meet incredible natural bushland in the surrounding National Park with eucalypt and pine forests, rocky headlands, and unique volcanic formations.
Image source: Shurupchik
3. Wategos Beach, Byron Bay, New South Wales
Much-loved for a reason... a sheltered spot to escape the bustling energy of Byron Bay. Wategos offers a more serene atmosphere, known for its beginner-friendly surf waves. It's also one of Byron's best spots for dolphin and whale watching during migration seasons.
Image source: Kara Rosenlund
4. Whitehaven Beach, The Whitsunday Islands
Nestled within the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands, this tropical paradise boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering a serene natural escape. Whitehaven Beach is renowned for its pristine beauty, featuring pure silica sand that creates its mesmerising, velvet-soft shoreline.
Image source: Hamilton Island
5. Chinamans Beach, Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Nestled within the NSW's South Coast, Chinamans Beach is known for its pristine white sand and periwinkle blue water. Stroll along the beach or spend the day swimming in the tranquil waters. It's often deserted early in the morning so you can enjoy it all to yourself.
Image source: Londoner in Sydney
6. Bondi Beach, NSW
We may be biased, but Bondi Beach is one the world's most famous beach destinations for a reason. From the turquoise clear waters and laid-back surf, to the bustling promenade and eclectic food and drink scene - to us, it's a little slice of paradise. Wake up early to experience Bondi at its best, grab a coffee and enjoy the golden glow that bathes the ocean at sunrise.
Image source: Morning Bondi
7. Portsea Back Beach, Victoria
Portsea Back Beach is renowned for its rugged beauty and powerful surf. Nestled at the tip of the iconic Mornington Peninsula, the beach offers stunning coastal views and dramatic limestone cliffs. With its wild waves and rock pools to explore, Portsea is a great option for those seeking a more adventurous coastal escape.
Image source: Visit Victoria
8. Alexandria Beach, Noosa, Queensland
Located on the quieter, eastern side of Noosa Heads, Alexandria Beach offers beautiful scenery and energetic seas, great for those seeking more adventure. We recommend taking a walk along the southern headlands - discover the sun-dappled eucalypt forest and hidden coves beside sweeping ocean views.
Image source: Vogue
9. Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
A true natural-wonder, Wineglass Bay is one of Tasmania's most celebrated coastal destinations - located in the wildly beautiful Freycinet National Park. For those seeking a little more action, you can enjoy a hike in through the Wineglass Bay Lookout or Hazards Beach Circuit - discover a treasure trove of picture-perfect coves and spectacular views of the bay from above.
Image source: Freycinet Experience Walk
10. Squeaky Beach, Wilsons Promontory, Victoria
For those looking to escape the crowds and indulge in wild natural beauty, Wilsons Promontory is truly a breathe of fresh air. Find some of Australia's clearest waters set amongst rugged bushland at Squeaky Beach. There's a range of campgrounds available to stay within the Prom, where you can enjoy plenty of spectacular beaches at your fingertips.
Image source: Australian Traveller
Header image: Boomerang Beach, Australian Traveller
]]>When cared for well, high-quality swimsuits can last for years. We've researched to find some of the more sustainable brands, that not only offer stylish designs but also prioritise ethical and eco-friendly practices.
]]>For those of us who live or holiday by the beach, it’s easy to be tempted to fill your wardrobe with the latest swim trends. However, quality over quantity stands true when it comes to swimwear. When cared for well, high-quality swimsuits can last for years. A gentle hand wash and rinse with a mild laundry detergent, like the Swim & Sport Wash, is the best way to preserve the longevity of swimwear – and also reduces the release of microfibres into the environment.
Most swimsuits are crafted from synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, and spandex, chosen for their water-wicking properties and stretch. However, more sustainable brands are beginning to innovate and incorporating recycled fibres into their designs.
We've researched to find some of the more sustainable brands, that not only offer stylish designs but also prioritise ethical and eco-friendly practices.
For Women...
Peony
Local Australian label, recognised for their feminine silhouettes and delicate floral prints. Peony's entire collection uses recycled polyester and a specially developed lining to help reduce waste. They focus on minimising waste and ecological damage throughout their whole supply chain.
BAYTHE
Australian swimwear and athleisure brand, Baythe embodies a philosophy of slow fashion - produce less, produce better. Each piece is made in Australia from high-quality, sustainable materials. Their ethos is rooted in celebrating the natural form and the joy of movement.
Abysee
Innovative Australian swim and eco-neoprene wetsuit label. Abysee produces consciously crafted swimwear from the highest quality materials, blending fashion with function. Designed by women for women, Abysse emphasises a commitment to leaving no trace and minimising harm to the planet.
Victoria Bliss
Classically constructed and consciously created in Australia, Victoria Bliss swimwear is made using recycled compositions, created from ocean waste products like fishing nets and plastic rubbish found in our seas. These products are then repurposed and recycled to create swimwear fabrics, a circular system you can feel good about.
Vitamin A
Designed and made in California, Vitamin A leads the way in sustainable swim. Passionate about finding alternatives to plastic fibres, the founder, Amahlia developed the first premium swim fabric made from recycled nylon fibres, EcoLux™. They offer a great selection of timeless styles and fits that you’ll have in your summer rotation for years.
Charlie Mae
Based in Byron Bay, Charlie Mae offers a collection of retro-inspired swimsuits, hand-crafted from recycled or sustainable fabrics. The women-led team is on a journey towards fully closing the loop within their small-scale manufacturing process.
BONDI BORN
A certified B-Corp offering relaxed and sophisticated silhouettes, leading the way with their sustainability practices. All Bondi Born's garments are handmade in Sydney using the highest quality, OEKO-TEX Certified fabrics – meaning they do not release any harmful substances. The brand's commitment extends to partnering with mills that source organic fibres and eliminating plastic from all packaging.
Kampos
Handcrafted in Italy, Kampos is the perfect combination of luxurious, conscious design and Italian quality. They create swimwear and clothing made using regenerated textiles, including fibres made from recycled marine plastic pollution. Their mission it to redefine the luxury fashion industry’s sustainability norms and contribute to the circular economy.
ANDIE
Australian womens' swim brand with an evolving commitment towards sustainable practices. Currently transitioning to using only recycled nylon fabrics, ANDIE focuses on fit and classic shapes designed to flatter any body.
For Men...
Orlebar Brown
Luxury, tailored mens swim and resort wear, inspired by the holidays. They design with longevity in mind, offering a 5-year guarantee to repair or replace swim shorts, and are carbon-neutral across their operations.
The Critical Slide Society (TCSS)
Independent surf brand from Australia, honouring the community, surf culture and sustainability in everything they do. TCSS celebrates local artists with creative prints and relaxed-fitting designs made using high-quality fabrics.
Afends
Born out of Byron Bay, Afends is leading the way with innovative, surf-inspired designs. They use eco-friendly hemp and recycled polyester to create surf shorts that are super lightweight and naturally planet-friendly.
The Rocks Push
Australian mens swimwear brand created with the planet in mind. They offer three styles of mens shorts and rash vests, made from recycled plastic bottles and other regenerated, earth-friendly materials.
MARDA
A Danish brand with sustainability at the heart of everything they do, from packaging to material choice. They design sophisticated, luxe swim shorts made using 100% recycled PET plastic.
Our latest collaboration with luxury mens resort and swim brand, Orlebar Brown, is a celebration of the joy of swimming. Inspired by the urge to be in, on and around the water.
As a brand born by the beach, we're particularly drawn to the ocean. The sea, for us, is a source of inspiration, reflection and a reminder of nature's calming but powerful influence. The name 'Bondi Wash' was inspired by the real 'wash' of the waves at Bondi Beach. It reminds us of the sensation of being in water, that leaves you feeling equally energised as deeply relaxed.
To explore this connection more, we spoke to Henry Meagher, someone who knows the transformative benefits of swimming in the ocean well.
Henry was one of the original swimmers in the Bondi Salties in 2013, a social swim group at Bondi Beach every Friday morning. What begun as a small group of friends has grown into a real community, with up to 200 friendly faces gathering each week for a point to point swim and coffee.
A true water-lover, Henry talks to us about the unexpected benefits of the Friday morning ritual and what draws him to the ocean.
You’ve been part of creating an incredible community in Bondi, revolving around a love of ocean swimming. We’d love to hear about your journey into swimming – how did it begin and how did Bondi Salties start?
Being near the ocean, hearing it, smelling it, it’s part of my DNA and a big part of my ocean memory bank…my knowledge, experiences and emotions are especially with Bondi Beach. I was a nipper at North Bondi Surf Lifesaving Club and spent endless summers jumping off flat rock with mates and body surfing with my Dad and sisters.
Fast-forward to a beautiful morning in June of 2013. A group of friends and I decided to meet at the North Bondi Ramp for a quick soft sand, point to point swim and a coffee. Smiles were large post-swim, and the energy was electric…we were hooked. The Salties were born.
Can you describe some of the benefits of your weekly swim ritual?
The well-known benefits of ocean swimming are the physical, things like boosting your immune system, improving your circulation, increasing your libido, reducing your stress levels and burning calories... But the more I swim and Salties grows, it’s the ‘unexpected benefits’ which are real gems - the connection it gives you to the ocean and those you are with, the new meaning it brings to community and the purpose it creates. There is no better feeling than seeing someone who has completed their first swim - smiles large, energy electric and a pep in their step!
How does your love for the ocean shape your views on protecting the environment?
There is an inner urge to want to give back and take care of the place that brings you so much joy. As our community grew during COVID so did the number of takeaway cups we used each Friday at bRU - our go-to spot for the post-swim coffee. In 2020 we partnered with bRU and Pledge For The Planet to f#ck the cup for good. We've never looked back and now every Friday when the group grabs a coffee, they take it from bRU’s 'mug' library.
You’ve spent a lot of time in the water, can you share one of your most memorable swims?
I love the rainy, cold, big swell mornings where only the fearless swimmers show up. Being out in the elements during this wild weather is a pretty cool experience. Being out the back in wild winds and and big swell with a few like-minded humans is energising. These mornings are also a good reminder of the risks involved; the ocean is a wild and powerful beast and it’s important we respect it and know our limits.
Do you have other non-negotiables that keep you feeling well?
I love running and try to get out three mornings a week at 5am with a local group called ‘Runners in the Dark’. I love starting in the dark and exercising into first light. The early light exposure causes the perfect cortisol peak in the morning which I find increases my energy throughout the day, but also helps me fall asleep more easily at night. I also drink a litre of water each morning with a spoonful of AG1.
Any advice for those considering taking up open water swimming?
Buddy up, know your limits and get comfortable reading and understanding the surf. A great first step is to join a local ocean swimming group who can help build your confidence and ability in open water - we have a few Bondi options listed on our FAQs.
How would you describe the feeling of a Friday at Salties in three words?
Joy, Awe and Gratitude
Imagery by Morning Bondi
We marked the end of 2023 with a festive summer garden party. Read what we ate and drink on the night from the native-inspired menu created by renowned chef, Enrico Tomelleri, Head Chef at Paski in Sydney.
]]>We were thrilled to have renowned chef, Enrico Tomelleri, Head Chef at Paski wine bar and restaurant in Sydney, create a custom native-infused menu. It was a very memorable night of eating and drinking - we wanted to share some highlights to give you inspiration for your own summer entertaining.
The menu was a creative Italian-fusion, bursting with unique Australian flavours and designed to be roaming style. We started with a selection of entrees, including homemade focaccia with a native pepperberry salami, fresh tuna crudo dressed with finger lime and nashi pear (see a similar recipe using Kingfish on our journal here), and a divine roasted peach and mozzarella salad.
For drinks, we started with NATIVO spritzes (recipe here) and our peachy Native Bellini for those skipping the alcohol. The night carried on with an easy drinking Pet Nat, Bright Young Thing, made by a small producer in the Adelaide Hills. It's our new favourite, light and zesty with a creamy finish.
Mains were a slow-roasted lamb shoulder and a conchiglie pasta with zucchini and fresh lovage butter (an old-time herb with a distinct mint and anise flavour).
Dessert was a divine vanilla sour gelato from our friends at MAPO, served with cherries and strawberries in a Kunzea syrup (a native from Tasmania).
A huge thank you to Enrico and the Paski team for helping us celebrate with such a special night of food.
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Lucy Folk, William Street
Timeless, whimsical resort wear, jewellery, and accessories - an ode to travel, art and the finer things in life. Lucy Folk’s vibrant and eclectic collections celebrate individuality and nomadic adventures. From statement jewels to meticulously crafted summer dresses made from the finest of materials, each piece is designed like a piece of art.
Exhibeo, Elizabeth Street
Artisan jeweller hiding in the leafy backstreets behind Oxford St, Exhibeo specialises in bespoke designs and bold, organic forms. They hand-make custom pieces from recycled metals in their Sydney studio and offer a range from luxury European designers.
Dinosaur Designs, Oxford Street
Iconic, Australian design brand recognised for their resin homewares and metal jewellery. Each piece is a testament to the brand's commitment to craftsmanship, celebrating organic form and vibrant colour. Find the perfect gift for those who appreciate the fusion of art, design and functionality - from sculptural resin vases and playful tableware to delicate jewels.
Sensorium Pop-Up at wyalba, Oxford Street
The mecca of natural perfume, Sensorium, is hosting their first ever pop-up at the wyalba boutique in Paddington until 25 December 2023. Discover best-selling fragrances from boutique Australian makers, alongside luxury and consciously selected perfumers from around the world. Curated gift sets are also available for last-minute holiday shopping.
Five by Flynn, Elizabeth Street
Up-and-coming contemporary apparel brand, Five By Flynn creates casual but curated streetwear and accessories. With sleek silhouettes and retro-inspired basics, their designs encapsulate the laid-back Australian culture - perfect for those seeking gifts for their coolest friends.
Collector Store, Oxford Street
Explore Collector Store's carefully curated selection of gifts from emerging designers and independent artists. From bespoke homewares to artisanal accessories, each piece tells a story.
P&V Merchants, Oxford Street
Artisan liquor store offering a curated collection of natural wines, boutique spirits, craft beers and funky drink accompaniments. The perfect place to pick up an experimental drop for your summer entertaining or find a gift for the person who has it all.
By Charlotte, William Street
By Charlotte specialises in timeless, elegant jewellery designed to capture the essence of love and connection. From delicate necklaces to meaningful charms, their pieces are perfect to gift to someone special during the holiday season.
Bondi Wash, Oxford Street
Natural, fragrant products for the home, body, baby and dog using native Australian botanicals. Browse our selection of curated gift sets and accessories from local artisans. Enjoy complimentary gift wrapping and receive a reusable Festive Bag with purchases over $80.
Funkis, Oxford Street
Unique and contemporary design store with a distinct Scandinavian flair, offering a curated selection of fashion, accessories, and homeware. Explore their range of timeless apparel or eye-catching home decor, all with a focus on sustainable design.
Di Nuovo, William Street
Vintage boutique specialising in luxury pre-loved womenswear. Located in the heart of a leafy William Street. Here you'll find a delightful range of high-quality, pre-loved treasures including designer handbags, dresses and at reasonable prices. Stock is sold on a consignment basis so there's new items arriving daily.
Hero image source: Local Paddo
]]>The holiday season is here which means time to relax, unwind and escape in a great book. We've curated a list of our team's favourite books from the past year to add to your reading list this summer.
1. Lola in the Mirror
Trent Dalton
A new novel from best-selling Australian author Trent Dalton (Boy Swallows Universe and All Our Shimmering Skies). Set in Brisbane, it follows a seventeen-year-old girl Lola and her mother, who are on the run. An emotional and gritty journey that powerfully captures the dark underworld of drugs, homelessness and violence. You’ll finish feeling full of equal parts love, hope and despair.
2. The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness
Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz
A fascinating and thought-provoking read on the secrets to a happy, fulfilling life. Written by the directors of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest scientific study of happiness ever conducted. Waldinger and Schulz share the surprising but profound impact of human connection and relationships on our happiness.
3. Green Lights
Matthew McConaughey
A lover letter to life from Matthew McConaughey. An unconventional memoir that tells the story of his life growing up, his rise to fame, and the lessons he has learned. The book is filled with his little musings – bumpersticks as he calls them - how to catch the "greenlights" in life.
4. The Nightingale
Kristin Hannah
A heartbreaking historical romance that looks at the often-overlooked part of the Second World War – the women’s war. The Nightingale is a story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, throughout Nazi-occupied France. A beautiful and vivid tale focusing on love, resilience and the bond between women, particularly sisters. It’s currently being adapted into a film starring Elle and Dakota Fanning.
5. Wifedom
Anna Funder
Wifedom explores the influential role of Eileen O’Shaughnessy in author George Orwell's life. A captivating read that explores the often-unacknowledged work of women. The book reflects on marriage, writing, and the challenges faced by wives and writers.
6. Every Summer After
Carley Fortune
A heart-warming romance by award-winning journalist Carley Fortune. Told over six years and one weekend, it follows the connection between two teenagers, Percy and Sam, set in Canada. A nostalgic exploration of love, friendships, and the choices we make that can shape our lives forever.
7. The Secret of Elephants
Vasundra Tailor
A captivating, easy-to-read novel that follows the life of Nirmala, a young mother in a loveless marriage, set in Navsari, India. Nirmala embarks on a journey to Zimbabwe to uncover her family's history and the hidden truths of her father's past. A moving and genre-bending book that covers themes of love, family, betrayal and mystery.
8. The Little Virtues
Natalia Ginzburg
A selection of short essays by acclaimed Italian author writing throughout the 20th Century. Wise, thoughtful and beautifully written, Ginzburg explores themes of family relationships, friendship, politics and war. The common thread that comes through is her love of life, even throughout times of melancholy. It delicately encourages readers to reflect on their values and purpose in life.
9. Hanging By A Thread
Erin Deering
A look into the life behind the scenes of Erin Deering – co-founder of Australian swimwear brand, Triangl. An interesting insight into another young Australian start-up’s rise, and the delicate balance of achieving success while navigating mental health challenges.
10. The Creative Act: A Way of Being
Rick Rubin
Renowned music producer Rick Rubin offers a beautifully crafted and much-acclaimed book on creativity and the artist's journey. "The Creative Act" distills his lifetime of wisdom, that will leave you inspired to embrace creativity in all avenues of life.
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Why BONDI WASH x IN BED?
About a year ago, IN BED extended an invitation for us to join their IN RESIDENCE program, an opportunity to curate a pop-up within their store. We're so excited to finally see the vision come to life, especially as we both mark our brands 10th anniversaries.
The choice to host our first ever pop-up with IN BED was only natural. IN BED's dedication to crafting premium, timeless and sustainable products aligns seamlessly with the BONDI WASH ethos - sharing our commitment to high-integrity, natural living.
"We share the same commitment to choosing natural and high-quality materials, and similar ethos around bringing pleasure through simple moments at home." - CEO and Founder, Belinda Everingham.
The residency beautifully blends the sensory allure of our fragrant range with the luxurious feel of IN BED textiles. The BONDI WASH in-store experience is a huge part of our brand. We're excited to give our community in Melbourne the chance to discover our unique native scents and try our products in such a warm and beautiful space.
Together the collaboration celebrates our shared love for sustainable living, Australian design and the elements that make a home truly special.
Throughout the Residency, we're gifting a complimentary Delicate Wash 125ml in Blue Cypress & Petitgrain and a complimentary Festive Bag in Black on all Bondi Wash purchases over $80 so you can wrap sustainably this year.
]]>NATIVO celebrates the distinct Australian native flowers, citrus, and fragrant botanical flavours. Distilled with sweet Davidson Plum and Riverina oranges, complimented with aromatic Rosella, Quandong and Tasmanian Pepper, it’s perfectly bittersweet, with a touch of spice.
Every year at the Bondi Wash Christmas party, we celebrate with a native-infused cocktail – we typically use handpicked botanicals foraged from edible plants in our gardens, like Lilly Pilly or Lemon Myrtle.
Our founder, Belinda became inspired by the process of creating botanical-infused aperitivo style drinks after attending a wedding in Italy in July where they served natural wines, apertivos and digestifs. To celebrate our 10th birthday, we decided to elevate our exploration and design a tailor-made drink to share many of our favourite native flavours.
With help from the experts at Autonomy, we've crafted the dream summer drink - basically an Australian Aperol (but better). It's bright, sweet and a little bit spicy. Bursting with native peach, plum and fresh citrus aromatics, followed by a breeze of botanical spice wafting across the tongue and a light bitterness to finish.
It's delicious on it's own with ice and a dash of soda, or in a spritz.
Here's our tried and tested recipe for the perfect native-infused summer refresher:
The NATIVO Spritz
50 ml (1 part) NATIVO
50 ml (1 part) prosecco
50 ml (1 part) sparkling water
1 x slice of citrus
Ice
You can order NATIVO online now via the Autonomy website here.
]]>A gift needn't be grand to make an impact. Sometimes the most thoughtful gifts are those that are handmade with love. This gift guide includes inspiration on affordable gifts that you can make at home.
]]>01. Jars of dried citrus
Homemade dried citrus is a beautifully fragrant Christmas gift. You can slice a few oranges, place on baking paper in the oven for 45min-1hr at 140 degrees C, turning over half way through. Store the slices with some cinnamon sticks and cloves in sterilised jars or thread some twine through the centre of each slice to make zesty decorations for the tree or gift wrapping.
02. Bags of Christmas decorated cookies
Festive cookies are a delicious treat for Christmas day. You can either gift wrap in a small bag or box. There are a few simple recipes here with flavours of salted caramel, chocolate peppermint and gingerbread.
03. Handmade ornaments
Involving the family to hand make ornaments is a lovely Christmas tradition. There are a few ideas that you can try here - all with varying complexity. The yarn stars are simple to make and can be colour coordinated with the recipients decor.
04. Chocolate covered coffee spoons
Deliciously sweet spoonfuls of chocolate. Simply melt chocolate, dip the spoon and add a topping such as extra chocolate chips, macadamia or pistachio nuts. You can search for some vintage silver spoons on Etsy.
05. Handmade Christmas crackers
Handmade Christmas crackers are a lovely addition to the dining table on Christmas day and make a wonderful gift when visiting friends and family. You can get creative and follow these step-by-step instructions.
06. Fragranced air fresheners
These Christmas tree shaped air fresheners are a simple gift to make and can be fragranced with BONDI WASH essential oils. Simply outline a Christmas tree shape on a piece of fabric twice, glue both pieces of fabric together, cut a hole at the top to add some twine and soak in your preferred essential oil.
07. Air dry clay vases
Air dry clay is wonderful as you can hand craft vases without needing to dry in a kiln. You can purchase air dry clay from your local art supply store, on online here. Crockd on YouTube has a number of simple videos to help you hand build a vase, it makes a lovely gift filled with native flowers.
08. DIY giftbasket
Source a beautiful wicker/cane basket from your local charity shop or online marketplace and fill with a selection of local, native products. A few of our favourites include salted caramel macadamias and native dark chocolate from Kakadu Plum Co, loose leaf tea from The Organic Tea Project, the BONDI WASH x Autonomy NATIVO aperitivo or Monday Distillery non-alcoholic Native Bellini.
09. Festive stamped tea towels
A simple gift that the whole family can enjoy making. Purchase plain white linen tea towels such as these here, festive cookie cutters and textile paint from your local art supply store. There are step-by-step instructions on The Curated Farmhouse. You can also consider using more eco-friendly paints such as these from Eco Green Living.
10. Bags of Native rocky road chocolate
Native rocky road is a delicious present to gift to family and friends leading up to Christmas. You can either gift wrap in a small bag or box with ribbon. There is a simple recipe at The Australian Superfood Co with flavours of native strawberry gum and roasted wattleseed.
]]>I wanted to share a few items from my Christmas wish list to help with gifting this festive season. This gift guide includes inspiration for fashion lovers, beach goers, dog lovers and homebodies.
]]>I already have a couple of these but one got ink all over it so I'd love a replacement. I have a ROGER one too which I think she created to celebrate Roger Federer but my dog is called Roger so it's a little symbol of my love for him.
02. Truffle mustard
One of my favourite indulgent additions to a meal. You have to be careful as there are ‘fake’ truffle mustards out there. I love this one from WA.
03. FINK vase
I was given a FINK jug maybe 20 years ago. It’s so impressive that this design house is still designing and creating. The couple that started it grew up near me in Canberra. I’d love one of their vases.
04. Beach hat
Relax remade is such a great concept – they reuse old towels and make them into gorgeous bucket hats but they are quite expensive so I wouldn't mind one of the Jackson sunhats instead. I like a hat with a wide brim, and that doesn’t get crushed in your beach bag or suitcase.
This one is on the pricer side but I really love Kendal’s whimsical artworks - it would be a dream gift. A Sydney local, she creates miniature scenes on vintage purses or mirrors that are so playful and intricate.
A good friend gifted me a jar of this Tea Tree Blossom Honey. It's harvested at a bee farm at Portsea Estate on the Mornington Peninsula. It is really delicious – I’d love to try the Moonah Blossom flavour.
07. Ceramic dog bowl
We collaborated with Animals in Charge on our Double Hook Dog Lead. They have lovely dog bowls too which I’d like as my elderly spoodle drinks a lot, so we end up with having a lot of water bowls scattered through the house.
08. Kirribilli markets Japanese earrings
I am a touch addicted to these earrings. It’s a creative Japanese Bondi local who hand makes everything. Each pair is different and so unique - I get loads of compliments whenever I wear them. And they are just $40 each. You can follow him on Instagram to find out the dates he'll be at the Kirribilli markets in Sydney.
09. New and vintage glassware
I discovered these PERLE glasses at a local neighbourhood restaurant near our office in Milan – and somehow found them available here in Australia. I love to make everyday tasks a little more pleasurable by choosing beautiful, high-quality pieces. I am also a fan of op shop or vintage store crystal glasses – I have quite a collection but could always use more.
10. Samuel Gravan Fleur D’Elena
It’s no surprise that I love natural perfume and Samuel is the perfumer I worked with to create the wyalba range. He’s just released a new scent which I adore….it’s a floral citrus scent – lots of neroli – my new favourite.
11. NATIVO
I am completely biased but I really love this drink that we created with Ash from Autonomy Distillers in Melbourne. It has my favourite native flavours inside, along with sweet Riverina oranges. It’s essentially an Australian aperol – it’s bitter, sweet and spicy all at once. I love it with ice and soda water.
I recently did an interview with the lovely team at MOS and they gifted me one our their outfits, which I adore. They make really timeless pieces and I love supporting another local, female-founded Bondi brand.
13. Italian cashmere
I found Alina Olivieri Brand at the Saturday markets in Milan last year and the quality is great - so much better than what you often find in Australia. The good news is that they can ship to Australia. You can DM them over Instagram.
14. Outdoor Australian native cushion covers
These outdoor cushion covers use the beautiful artwork of John Klein, decorated with Australian florals. We have some at home already and they're great quality. He makes some lovely placemats too, which can be used for outside dining.
Right now this is my favourite product from our new little sister brand, Wash Wild - available online. They work really well in place of a room spray to deodorise the bathroom. You just drop a few drops into the toilet after flushing.
Naomi is an old friend and also the daughter of Nat Young. She has just launched with some of her own creations - Australian native designed wetsuits and other swimming accessories. I love the designs.
I love a good silk shirt for both workwear and evening wear. Alessandra offer great quality silk and cashmeres pieces, and they're all designed in Melbourne. I bought this shirt in navy and wear it all the time, so I’d like it in another colour.
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Sending corporate gifts is lovely way to show your staff, clients and partners just how much you appreciate their contribution. We have a range of beautifully packaged gift sets for your end-of-year gifting.
]]>We have a range of beautifully packaged gift sets, designed to make your end-of-year gifting simple, sustainable, and thoughtful. All BONDI WASH products are made from local, high-quality ingredients, ensuring they resonate with your brand's values and champion sustainability.
Whether you’re looking for a way to thank your whole team (that doesn't involve plastic trinkets or overpriced hampers), or a special gesture to impress your top clients, there's something for everyone on your list.
Bathroom Pamper Duo - $60
The crowd-pleaser.
One of our most popular gift sets, the Bathroom Pamper Duo features a Hand Wash and Body Wash in two of our best-selling scents, Sydney Peppermint & Rosemary and Lemon Tea Tree & Mandarin. It's versatile, gender-neutral and sure to impress anyone on your list. Packaged in a recyclable gift box decorated with our distinctive Australian botanical posies.
Hair Travel Box - $35
For the jet-setter, or business traveller.
A great gift for anyone who loves travelling. The Travel Box includes a Body Wash, Body Lotion, Nourishing Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner - designed to make it easy to stay fresh while travelling. Each product is fragranced with our natural Australian botanical scents and elegantly packaged in a box with beautiful banksia to reflect the active ingredients inside.
Petite Hand Pamper Duo – $50
Our staff pick.
A thoughtful but simple gift sure to delight anyone. The Petite Hand Pamper Duo includes two of our best sellers, the Hand Wash and Hand Lotion in 250ml sizes to pamper employees, clients or colleagues. Fragranced in one of our best-selling scents, Tasmanian Pepper & Lavender.
Bliss Box - $70
For those in need of a well-deserved break.
Treat your staff or partners to some simple, natural self-care. The Bliss Box features a luxuriously soothing Hand Cream and a nourishing Purifying Night Balm, designed to offer a little daily bliss. Made with gentle, natural ingredients and packaged in a festive botanical box.
Fragrant Body Set - $120
To show deep appreciation.
Something a little extra special and thoughtful - a great gift to thank your top partners or to show gratitude for your employees. The Fragrant Body Set contains our best sellers for the body, including a Body Wash, Hand Wash, Shampoo & Conditioner in a variety of our Australian botanical scents.
Gift Card – $10, $25, $50 or $100
For anyone and everyone.
The gift of choice - let them choose their own selection of natural products for the home, body, baby, or dog. Available in $10, $25, $50 and $100 denominations.
We can cater to any size order. For more information or for any commercial enquiries or custom orders, reach out to team@bondiwash.com.au.
]]>Beyond the iconic beachfront, Bondi is home to an ever-changing and thriving food and drink scene. From sun-drenched cafes to laidback wine bars and local eateries, there’s always something new to discover.
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A real Bondi institution, this teeny café and wine bar quickly makes you feel part of the family. By day, it's a buzzy coffee spot - much-loved for their vibrant salads and cult favourite BLT. But as the sun sets, the cafe turns into a trendy wine bar, with a beautifully curated natural wine list and delicious, home-style share plates. Kicking off this November, get down for their Sunday Sessions from 3-8pm for wine, cheese and funky tunes.
Image credit: The Shop
New kid on the block, Easy Tiger is bringing a taste of southeast Asia to the shores of Bondi. Headed up by ex-Mr Wong and Queen Chow chef Andrianto Wirya, the menu is bursting with fresh and punchy pan-asian classics. For those who struggle to decide, there’s a set menu for just $42, where you receive five dishes plus rice. The venue is also home to local Bondi Brewery Company, so you can enjoy your spicy noodles with an ice cold beer.
Image credit: Leigh Griffins / TimeOut
Fresh on the scene, Iberica is a new spanish-inspired wine and tapas bar from the team behind Ikaria. Step inside and be transported to the mediterrean with terracotta walls and curved arches that mimic a Spanish seaside villa. The menu is bursting with traditional Spanish specialities including Iberian ham, grilled octopus and traditional seafood paella. Get down early on a Saturday arvo with friends and pretend you’re in Mallorca.
Image credit: Iberica
All-day beachfront eatery in the newly re-opened Bondi Pavilion. With prime ocean-views and a sprawling terrace, Promenade aims to revive the friendly, coastal vibe of Bondi in the 70s. There's a variety of dining options to suit the mood - from intimate long lunches to a quick bite. We're also looking forward to long summer evenings spent at the top floor bar at Upstairs by Glory Days.
Image credit: Promande
Birichina Cafe
An unassuming, no frills, hole-in-the-wall cafe opposite the South Bondi grass. Great coffee, friendly baristas and a cabinet full of fresh brekkie goods, it's no surprise it's always buzzing with locals. Big communal tables out front are drenched with sun in the early mornings - the perfect spot to enjoy a post-swim coffee and pastry.
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1428/7694/files/Bar_Copo.jpg?v=165691BBar Copo
Inspired by the energetic neighbourhood bars of South America, Bar Copo is a true local hangout. Sip on a seasonal flavoured Margarita or Caipirinha while feasting on tasty Latin American bar food and sandwiches. A great spot for a sunny afternoon drink or a night out with friends on the weekends. Things get groovy after dark with local live music acts and creative pop-up events.
Image credit: Broadsheet
Perched just metres from the beach stretch, SOY offers top-notch Japanese food, without breaking the bank. The menu is authentic and creative, offering simple dishes created with passion, integrity and high-quality ingredients. Highlights include the sashimi, dengaku eggplant and selection of creative sushi rolls. With a relaxed yet intimate feel, it’s perfect for dinner with friend or a casual date night occasion. They often have space for walk-ins if you arrive early.
Authentic, family-run Italian in the centre of Bondi. Consistently good quality food, great hospitality, and a warm, vibrant atmosphere. The pizza is delicious… arguably some of the best in Sydney…and the arancini balls take it to another level.
Image credit: Leigh Griffins / Broadsheet
Inspired by NYC-style deli, Lox is another local favourite serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner in the backstreets of Bondi. They hit the mark in every way - healthy and hearty meals, great coffee and friendly service. With a focus on fresh ingredients and slow cooking, they make everything fresh in-house and have lots of options for those with dietary requirements.
Image credit: Kitti Gould / Broadsheet
Bondi's original diner - effortlessly cool and casual serving up no-frills burgers and fries. In true Bondi style, they make their burger patties in-house with fresh ingredients, and boast a unique, natural-leaning drinks menu. With walls adorned with 90s memorabilia and tunes pumping, you can easily believe you're in the wild west. They don't take bookings so head early to score a booth at the back and soak up the late-night vibes.
An old favourite for Bondi locals, the corner house is effortlessly cool. Our choice for a cosy mid-week dinner or date night. Enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza and produce-focused Italian plates. Sit at the street-facing bar and watch the buzz of Bondi Road or head upstairs for a more rustic ‘living-room’ vibe (also a great space for events). They also have specials throughout the week that are worth checking out.
Image credit: Hidden City Secrets
Bondi’s newest gelateria. It’s gelato how the Italians meant it to be; creamy and delicious, and made fresh in-store using sustainable ingredients. The staff are lovely and we love that they offer half and half scoops for those times when two flavours are calling your name, but you only want a little. We must mention this does not replace our love for the OG favourite, Gelato Messina.
Image credit: Jiwon Kim / Broadsheet
Great for breakfast, lunch, coffee, a drink or dinner it's always good with healthy but flavoursome food and drink options, attentive but low key staff, comfortable chairs and a relaxed 'living room' vibe. The tumeric chicken salad is one of our favourites, but it's hard to go wrong here.
Image credit: Bills Bondi
Sean's is a Bondi institution having been serving his signature farm to table cuisine since the 1990s. Well-located right opposite North Bondi beach, we love it for dinner anytime of year. Make sure you book in advance.
Image credit: Sean's Panorama
Great for dinner, offering classic communal (meze) style dining with an uncomplicated dinner menu designed by ex-Rockpool chef Simon Zalloua. Enjoy slow cooked lamb, roasted pepper, and house made pickles with a side of fattoush salad and crispy za'atar bread. Book ahead, hard to get a table.
Image credit: Concrete Playground
]]>70 grams roasted macadamia nuts
2 tbs red wine vinegar
1tsp dried lemon myrtle
½ bunch parsley roughly chopped
2 long red chillies diced, and seeds removed
3 garlic cloves
1 tsp salt
3 turns black pepper
40ml macadamia oil (or olive oil)
To top
Roasted macadamias
1 long red chilli, de-seeded and diced up
Dusting lemon myrtle powder
Recipe by Simon Toohey for Australian Native Products. Image by Charlotte Orr.
If you’ve seen the Netflix docuseries, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, you’ll be familiar with the concept of the Blue Zones. These are regions of the world where more people enjoy significantly longer and healthier lives.
]]>The good news is that you don’t have to book a one-way ticket to Sardinia or Japan to achieve such lifelong wellness. As the research into the typical lifestyles in the regions explains, there are simple habits we can adopt that have the power to help us live long and graceful lives.
DAILY MOVEMENT
People living in the Blue Zones seamlessly integrate movement into their everyday routines. Where possible, they tend to choose activities that use their body and hands - as simple as gardening, walking instead of driving or making their food by hand. You don't need daily intense HIIT workouts; simple bursts of movement throughout the day can be just as effective at keeping our bodies young.
EATING AND DRINKING WISELY
Unsurprisingly, a healthy diet is essential to living a healthy, long life. Diets in the Blue Zones tend to be primarily plant-based. Think unprocessed whole foods including lean proteins, leafy greens, fruits, legumes, grains, and seeds. Healthy fats like olive oils, avocado and fresh seafood are especially beneficial. These are full of powerful omega-3s that reduce inflammation - an underlying trigger for chronic conditions such as heart disease, strokes, depression and anxiety.
PRIORITISING SOCIAL CONNECTIONS
Human connection is the most notable commonality between all the blue zones… possibly the biggest secret to longevity. Family is especially important to residents in these communities and they make time to regularly connect with close friends. Social engagement nurtures brain health, facilitating blood circulation and strengthening neural circuits - making it challenging for neurodegenerative diseases to take root.
FINDING PURPOSE & CALM
Finding a sense of purpose and prioritising emotional well-being is essential to maintaining a graceful life. Blue Zone residents often lead lives infused with meaning - whether through their work, hobbies, or community involvement. It's widely known that activities like mindfulness meditation, yoga, and breath work can help alleviate stress and enhance our mental well-being. However, seeking out hobbies and activities that bring us joy and lead to a state of 'flow' can be equally valuable in bringing clarity and meaning to our lives.
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Recently published online via Vogue, our founder Belinda Everingham shares the art of spring cleaning, rounding up her spring cleaning tips from what you need to get started to the most efficient approach to take.
]]>Recently published online via Vogue, our CEO and founder Belinda Everingham shares the art of spring cleaning, rounding up her spring cleaning tips from what you need to get started to the most efficient approach to take.
“A ladder to reach the high up places like tops of cupboards; a quality cloth (preferably natural material as it’s biodegradable); a bucket and a smaller container or caddy to house your cleaning supplies as you carry them round the home.”
Belinda advises you don't need to use antiseptic and bleach excessively to achieve a thorough clean. Instead, you can achieve the same level of cleanliness with a versatile, family-friendly, natural cleaner. She also highlights the importance of being cautious when shopping for ‘natural’ cleaning products, ensuring you aren't misled by the greenwashing practices in the home cleaning industry.
“Sadly you can’t rely on labels that say ‘organic’, ‘natural’ or ‘eco’—regulations are very loose and not well-enforced,” Belinda explains. “Read the ingredients or buy from a trusted brand to ensure nasties are not hidden in the formulations. To help with this, we’ve come up with a list of what to avoid in household cleaners.”'
Belinda recommends spending time on pieces or areas you interact with constantly: “Devoting attention to those areas you see daily like light fittings, pantries, and inside the kitchen cupboards will bring great daily satisfaction.”
Spring cleaning goes beyond surface dusting; it's an opportunity to delve into what requires repairs, adjustments, and creative upcycling. “It doesn’t have to be Marie Kondo level,” Belinda advises, “use the opportunity to go through cupboards and either toss anything past its use by date or donate to those in need.”
You can read the full article here.
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Much like the plastics crisis where production exceeds the ability to manage it, with vast quantities of waste polluting landfill, oceans and waterways, our obsession with fashion is a catastrophe unfolding.
]]>Australia has the second highest rate of textile consumption per capita in the world after the US, with the average person purchasing 27kg of new clothing and textiles every year. A staggering 23kg of that ends up in landfill, a part of the 6,000kg that is discarded every 10 minutes nationally. It seems we are not fully up to speed with our country’s contribution to this crisis as 40% of Australians believe we rank between 6th-12th and 50% of us think buying from sustainable brands is enough of an effort(1).
Australian and New Zealand brand, Upparel are taking steps to mitigate this catastrophe through their recycling and repurposing programs. By partnering with a range of businesses, each committed to playing their part in minimising waste, consumers are rewarded with store credits for sending in their unwanted items and millions of items are diverted from landfill, reducing greenhouse gasses from polluting the atmosphere.
With 60% of items received in new or fit-to-wear condition, Upparel workers hand-sort and forward these to a range of charities for people in need. The remaining 40% is repurposed by designers or transformed into an innovative new material that promises to revolutionise many other industries. This wonder resource, Uptex – which is completely recycled and recyclable – could possibly replace materials that are typically made from virgin materials such as cardboard, coreflute, polyurethane foam, PET plastics and fibreglass.
To get involved in this valuable initiative, visit the Upparel website and choose your rewards partner from a wide range of suppliers including Target, Kip&Co, Biome, Riders/Lee, Sussan, Wrangler and yd. Next, purchase your box type, package up your unwanted textiles into a box of your own, book a collection then attach the supplied labels ready for pick-up. You’ll then receive a store credit with some partners offering up to $100 per collection. Alternatively, look out for drop-off boxes that are popping up in clothing stores everywhere, a signal perhaps of an industry ready for positive change.
Now there is an incentive for every one of us to be a part of the solution.
Source: Alejo Reinos, unsplash.com
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New South Wales
Ladies Well, Barrington Tops
Tucked away in the Barrington Tops National Park, Ladies Well is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a relaxing swim amid lush rainforests. The cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear rock pools create a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect oasis for those looking to escape the city.
Nellies Glen
Located in the Blue Mountains, Nellies Glen is a series of rock pools and waterfalls, the perfect spot for a refreshing wild swim. Approximately 2 hours’ drive from Sydney and a short walk, it offers clear water and lush surroundings.
Killen Falls, Byron
Killen Falls in Byron Bay are situated in a lush rainforest, surrounded by towering trees and verdant greenery, making it the perfect destination for a wild swim. The area is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including birds, wallabies and platypus.
Dangar Falls
Located in Dorrigo National Park, Dangar Falls is a stunning waterfall that flows 30 meters into a deep swimming hole. Located an hour from Coffs Harbour and only a short walk to the waterfall, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. The park offers a number of walking trails that are surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.
Queensland
Cardwell Spa Pools
Nestled in the Girringun National Park 2.5 hours’ drive from Cairns, Cardwell Spa Pools is a series of crystal-clear rock pools surrounded by lush rainforest. The pools are known for their therapeutic properties due to the high mineral content of the water. They are fed by underground springs that contain minerals such as magnesium and calcium, which are believed to have healing properties for various skin conditions, joint pain, and other ailments. The water temperature is warm, making it a comfortable spot for a wild swim in the cooler months.
Kondalilla Falls
Located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Kondalilla Falls is a stunning waterfall that flows into a series of rock pools. It's approximately 1.5 hours' drive from Brisbane, and only a short walk is required to reach the swimming spot. The pools offer a refreshing and invigorating wild swim experience, surrounded by lush rainforest and birdsong.
Northern Territory
Florence Falls
Nestled in the heart of the Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory, Florence Falls is a breathtaking natural waterfall that cascades into a deep swimming hole amidst the lush rainforest. It’s approximately 1.5 hours’ drive from Darwin and a short walk to the falls.
Bitter Springs
Bitter Springs, located in the beautiful town of Mataranka in Katherine, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and rejuvenating wild swim experience. Its crystal-clear, warm waters flow through a lush tropical landscape, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for swimmers. The surrounding area offers a range of nearby walking trails and is also home to a variety of native wildlife.
Western Australia
Karijini
Situated in the Karijini National Park, Karijini is a stunning wilderness area known for its breathtaking gorges, waterfalls and rock formations. It’s approximately 14 hours’ drive from Perth, making it the perfect road trip to explore the rest of Western Australia’s natural wonders along the way. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, swim in the crystal-clear rock pools and waterfalls and even camp under the stars.
Pemberton Pool
Pemberton Pool, located in the heart of the Pemberton region in Western Australia, is a beautiful swimming hole offering a refreshing wild swim experience. The pool is fed by the Lefroy Brook and is surrounded by lush karri forest and granite boulders, creating a picturesque and peaceful ambiance. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and a range of bird species.
Victoria
Polly McQuinns, Strathbogie
Located in the Strathbogie Ranges, Polly McQuinns is a series of cascading waterfalls and rock pools. Only a 2 hour drive from Melbourne, it’s a popular destination for swimmers and nature lovers (especially in the warmer months). The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and a range of bird species.
Blue Pool, East Gippsland
Blue Pool is a stunning natural swimming hole located in the Tambo River just north of Sale. It’s approximately 4 hours’ drive from Melbourne but is well worth the drive. The fresh, clear water and surroundings make it the ideal place for a wild swim or even just a beautiful place to relax.
South Australia
Dalhousie Springs, Simpson Desert
Hidden away in the Simpson Desert, Dalhousie Springs is a series of thermal springs surrounded by red sand dunes and desert scrub, offering a truly unique wild swim experience. The water temperature at the springs remains at a constant 38°C, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing soak. Visitors can also explore the nearby walking trails, which wind through the surrounding desert landscape and provide stunning views of the area's unique flora and fauna, including the iconic red kangaroo.
Tasmania
Harding Falls
Harding Falls is located in the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness on the east coast. Approximately an hour from nearby coastal towns, the falls are accessible via a peaceful walking trail, providing visitors with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The falls flow into a deep, crystal-clear pool and are surrounded by lush rainforests and towering trees. Extremely cool and refreshing, we recommend a wild swim here in the warmer months.
Hero image source: Walk My World
]]>This native ingredient-inspired recipe by Warndu makes a cake that is moist, sweet and just perfect with a cup of tea. Desert lime and lemon myrtle give it zest and vibrance, sea rosemary adds another layer to the flavour profile.
]]>This native ingredient-inspired recipe by Warndu makes a cake that is moist, sweet and just perfect with a cup of tea. Desert lime and lemon myrtle give it zest and vibrance, sea rosemary adds another layer to the flavour profile, while macadamia oil imparts a rich, buttery texture that will leave you wanting more!
Cake Ingredients
4 free-range eggs
165g caster sugar
180ml macadamia oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped sea rosemary
100g desert limes, finely chopped
255g self-raising flour
1/2 teaspoon Murray River pink salt
Icing Ingredients
120g icing sugar, sifted
60g butter, chilled and grated
60ml lemon myrtle-infused olive oil (or macadamia oil)
desert limes and sea rosemary, to garnish
Method
Preheat oven to 160°C. Brush a 23cm diameter cake tin lightly with oil.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs for 30 seconds with an electric mixer. Add the sugar and beat until the mix is foamy, pale and increased in volume. While the mixer is still running, slowly drizzle in the macadamia oil until mixed in. Stir in the rosemary and lime.
In a separate bowl, sift the flour and stir in the salt. Using a low speed, mix the dry ingredients into the egg mix. Mix until combined.
Pour the batter into the tin and bake for 50 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the tin, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the icing, mix the icing sugar with the butter and oil to form a soft icing. Spread evenly over the cake. Decorate with sprigs of sea rosemary and limes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 1 hour. Serves 8-10.
Desert lime can be purchased here. Sea rosemary grows widely across coastal areas of Australia but can also be purchased dried here.
Recipe: Samara Vercoe - warndu.com
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Unlike conventional haircare, natural alternatives are made without harsh ingredients such as sulphates, silicones and parabens. These additives create the illusion of silky, clean hair but can actually damage hair and disrupt your body's natural hormones. You can read the full list of ingredients we avoid in hair products here.
The great news is that you definitely don't have to sacrifice good hair days when you switch to natural. But with any detox, a single wash won't eliminate years of product buildup.
Here's what you can expect:
While washing: Less foaming
Shampoos made without sulphates will naturally foam less. Sulphates create the lathering effect in conventional shampoos, however they also increase skin sensitivity and strip the scalp of natural oils.
With less of a lather, it can help to double wash to ensure your hair is left squeaky clean.
Post-washing: Natural conditioners may not give you that immediate 'silky' feeling
Conventional hair products contain silicones, designed to add shine and hydration. The problem with silicones is that they aren't water soluble - they build up on the hair overtime and coat the hair follicle like plastic, meaning active ingredients can't penetrate the hair shaft.
During the transition, it can help to incorporate a natural oil to give your hair that post-wash shine.
Following the first few washes: Your hair may feel heavier at first
It’s perfectly normal for hair to feel oilier or heavier in the first few weeks. Do not fear... this is simply your scalp adjusting to it's natural rhythm and returning to a healthy pH. Patience is key.
After a few weeks: Luscious locks and a happy scalp
It can take a few weeks or even months to reap the benefits of natural ingredients – but when you do, your hair will be more well-balanced and feel more hydrated than before.
Natural hair products don't strip your hair of natural oils like synthetics and are often enriched with plant extracts to deeply nourish and protect your hair and scalp in the long-run. Your hair will not only appear cleaner and softer - it really will be cleaner and softer!
]]>During hotel stays, our founder and CEO, Belinda Everingham, always takes time to survey the amenity labels, interested to learn what ingredients are used in these everyday products.
The results may surprise you as some luxury international brands and others that suggest they are free from nasties include an array of ingredients that we choose not to use.
Sulphates
Sulphates, commonly referenced as SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) and SLES (sodium laureth sulphate) are typically used as foaming agents in shampoos, hand wash and body wash. Usually derived from petroleum and exposed to harsh chemicals, they can lead to skin dryness, itchiness and increased susceptibility to irritation (1).
Parabens
Chemical preservatives known as parabens, are often included to extend the shelf life of a product and to prevent bacterial growth but have been linked to hormonal imbalances with potential links to breast cancer (2).
Sodium coco sulphate
Sodium coco sulphate is a blend of fatty acids from coconut oil. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s safe. Just like SLS, it can cause skin irritations, rashes and allergic reactions.
Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol – also listed as 2-hydroxyethyl phenyl ether and 2-phenoxy-ethanol – is typically used as a stabiliser and preservative in skin creams, perfumes and soaps. This is very toxic in high doses with exposure linked to eczema and allergic reactions (3).
Synthetic Fragrance or Parfum
That alluring scent may be masking a complex mixture of harmful substances as synthetic fragrances – often listed as ‘parfum’ – have the potential to cause respiratory issues (4, 5) allergies and skin sensitivity (6). With no requirement to disclose specific ingredients used in these formulations, any number of phthalates, parabens, synthetic musks, sensitisers and harsh preservatives can contribute to adverse health effects for those who are susceptible.
PEGs
PEGs are used in personal care products such as shampoo, body wash and soap to make the ingredients softer on the skin. During their creation, products are contaminated with 1,4-dioxane - a well-known human carcinogen.
Phthalates
Phthalates are a range of chemicals typically used to help synthetic fragrance last longer. Commonly found in shampoo and other personal care products, they affect the reproductive and hormonal systems and have been linked to obesity, fertility issues, birth defects and asthma (7).
Research into these ingredients has also revealed that some of these chemicals can be detrimental to aquatic ecosystems and may not be fully removed by wastewater treatment posing risk to marine organisms and ecological imbalances (8).
Next time you travel, you may like to read the labels and see if you can spot any ingredients you may wish to avoid. A full list of the ingredients that we choose avoid for either health or environmental reasons can be found here. Ensure you don't have to use any of these ingredients by packing a selection of our travel-sized products like our Deluxe Travel Box or one of our Hair Travel Boxes.
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1. The Journal of the American College of Toxicology 1983.
2. The Journal of Applied Toxicology 2004.
3. De Groot, A. C., & Weyland, J. W. (2016). Systemic contact dermatitis from transcutol, phenoxyethanol, and disodium laureth sulfosuccinate in cosmetic creams. Dermatitis, 27(5), 265-266.
4. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2017.
5. The Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2016.
6. The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2010.
7. Swan, S. H. (2008). Environmental phthalate exposure in relation to reproductive outcomes and other health endpoints in humans. Environmental Research, 108(2), 177-184.
Huang, L. P., Lee, C. C., & Hsu, P. C. (2017). Phthalates and male reproductive health effects: a review. Environment International, 106, 144-164.
Ferguson, K. K., McElrath, T. F., Chen, Y. H., Mukherjee, B., Meeker, J. D., & Loch-Caruso, R. (2014). Repeated measures analysis of associations between urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and timing of pubertal onset in young girls. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 99(12), E2121-E2128.
Braun, J. M., Just, A. C., Williams, P. L., Smith, K. W., Calafat, A. M., Hauser, R., ... & Wright, R. J. (2014). Personal care product use and urinary phthalate metabolite and paraben concentrations during pregnancy among women from a fertility clinic. Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, 24(5), 459-466.
8. Holten Lützhøft, H. C., Halling-Sørensen, B., Jørgensen, S. E., & Nielsen, S. N. (1999). Environmental risk assessment of the human pharmaceutical ivermectin: toxicity to aquatic organisms. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 18(10), 2801-2806.
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Grapes typically used by the conventional wine industry are grown using pesticides, fertilisers and other chemicals, then processed with additives such as sugar, sulphites, colouring agents, flavourings and preservatives which can cause adverse effects to those who are susceptible.
Natural wine is made using antioxidant-rich (2) organic or biodynamic fruit, grown via sustainable practices that create rich ecosystems, improve soil quality and avoid chemical run-off from synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers that could potentially damage soil integrity and the quality of waterways (3). The grapes are hand-picked and fermented with natural yeast without additives or the use of modern industrial methods (4) . Although some natural winemakers use small amounts of preservatives and utilise oak barrels for maturation, purists prefer to follow the edict, ‘nothing added, nothing taken away’, allowing the characteristics of the soil, climate and location of the vineyards to flavour the wine, naturally.
Even with these health and environmental benefits, natural wines are still new to the market, making up less than 0.1% of what’s on offer so it may be a little harder to find them. The flavour can be quite different from conventional wine, and not always beautifully palatable.
Our team has been trialling them and we have put together some of our favourites to start a fruitful search…
Left to right: Bressan Carat 2018, Doom Juice Rouge 2022, Shady Lane Pet Nat Pinot, Bondar Cinsault Rosé 2022.
Left to right: BK Wines Pétillant Naturel Chardonnay 2022, La Calmette 'Nyctalope' 2020, Benotti Rosavica Langhe Nebbiolo 'Nebiulina' 2020, Tanca Nica Kaffefi 2020.
Left to right: Jilly Wine Co. Banana Girl 2021, Edenflo Quincy J 2022, La Petite Mort Qvevri Gentil White 2021, Domaine des Sablonnettes Le P'tit Blanc 2020.
Main image: Borachio Pash Rash Pet Nat 2022, Little Reddie New Chardonnay 2021, Good Intentions Artesian Lava 2021, Ephemera Nero d'Avola.
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To promote our overall well-being, we often turn to natural remedies that have withstood the test of time. One such practice gaining popularity is Cold Water Therapy...
]]>To promote our overall well-being, we often turn to natural remedies that have withstood the test of time. One such practice gaining popularity is Cold Water Therapy, a rejuvenating technique rooted in ancient traditions that is now making a comeback as a holistic approach to wellness.
Cold Water Therapy involves immersing oneself in cold water, whether through showers, baths, or plunges. This practice dates back to various cultures throughout history, including the Greeks, Romans, and indigenous communities, who revered cold water for its ability to stimulate the body's natural healing processes and enhance well-being.
In recent years, Cold Water Therapy has seen a surge in popularity, partly due to the influence of Wim Hof, a Dutch extreme athlete nicknamed, 'The Iceman.' Hof's extraordinary feats of cold exposure and controlled breathing have broken records and inspired many to explore the benefits of challenging the body mentally and physically in extreme conditions. Followers of Wim Hof have reported various advantages, from increased energy to relief from chronic illness symptoms.
Here are some key research-backed benefits of cold water therapy:
Incorporating Cold Water Therapy into your daily routine is easier than you might think. Start by adding short bursts of cold water at the end of your regular shower and gradually increase the duration and intensity as your body adapts, building up to 5 minutes. For the adventurous, consider invigorating dips in natural bodies of cold water, like lakes or the ocean, or try an ice bath if you're feeling particularly bold.
Sources:
1. https://www.wimhofmethod.com/benefits
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35213875/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5025014/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17993252/
5. https://www.brassmonkey.co.uk/pages/cold-water-immersion-science
Image source: Morning Bondi
]]>Native River Mint
Native River Mint or Native Spearmint are smaller more delicate specimens than the common supermarket varieties. A perfect match for the bold lemon zest and sherbert flavours of the vodka-inspired Cello Bella, it adds a fresh, cooling element. Muddle a few leaves in the glass before adding the mix or use small leaves as a garnish. You can purchase Native River Mint here.
Source: herbcottage.com.au
Lemon Myrtle
With its vibrant citrus flavour, lemon myrtle pairs beautifully with the Classic G&T complementing the bold juniper and rosemary undertones. Infuse each glass with dried leaves or garnish with fresh, finely-julienned leaves. You can purchase lemon myrtle leaves from Gin & Co here.
Source: littlegreenworkshops.com.au
Qandong
The quandong or wild peach as it is sometimes known, is a smaller, raspberry-sized dried variety that can be added directly to the glass as a colourful accent. For a more flavourful punch, it can be stewed in sugar syrup as a complement to the fruity, floral and slightly sour notes of the Dram Sour. You can purchase Quandong from Warndu here.
Source: flinders-ranges.com
Native Fingerlime
As spectacular as it is flavoursome, native fingerlime with its burst of caviar-like pearls makes a showstopping garnish added directly to the drink or presented around the rim of the glass. This indigenous fruit adds a herbaceous and citrusy note to the refreshing tequila-like Paloma. You can purchase native fingerlime at Harris Farm Markets.
Source: flowerpower.com.au
Wattleseed
On chilly winter’s day, a little spice can warm things up. Try adding a sprinkle of ground wattleseed to the limited release Stormy Royale to complement the espresso, bitters and smokey vanilla undertones of this alcohol-free rum cocktail. With its nutty, chocolately aroma, wattleseed also makes an excellent addition to creamy cocktails like a dry espresso martini or alcohol-free eggnog. You can purchase ground wattleseed from Warndu here.
Source: atlasobscura.com
With inspiration aplenty, you'll be set to sign up to the Dry July Foundation challenge to help raise funds to improve the comfort, care and wellbeing of those dealing with cancer. Now there's an added incentive to give it a go!
Main image source: Warndu
]]>Luckily, our bodies have a remarkable detoxification system in place and with a little knowledge and a relaxed approach, we can remove toxins from our bodies to avoid toxic build-up. We share our tips for detoxifying the body and creating a healthier environment:
Embrace gut health: A healthy gut is crucial for effective detoxification. Support your gut by staying hydrated, incorporating fibre-rich foods and probiotics into your diet and engaging in regular physical activity. Probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, sauerkraut, kimchi and kefir can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut. You can also consider taking high-quality probiotic supplements to further promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Choose clean beauty products: Choose beauty products that prioritise clean ingredients and avoid harmful chemicals and endocrine disruptors. By making this switch, you'll nourish your skin while improving your overall well-being. Choose brands that emphasise transparency and use natural, non-toxic formulations.
Nourish with greens: Incorporate cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and kale into your diet. These nutrient-packed greens contain sulphur-containing phytochemicals that aid in the release of detoxification enzymes in the body. Aim for organic produce whenever possible to avoid harmful chemicals and pesticides.
Choose natural cleaning products: While occasional encounters with commercial cleaning products may seem harmless, it's wise to steer clear of their daily use and opt for toxin-free alternatives. Many commercial cleaning products contain chemicals known to pose risks, especially for pregnant women, children and pets. There are many natural and effective cleaning products available, formulated with botanicals, essential oils and plant-based soaps.
Switch perfume for essential oils: Some perfumes contain chemicals and hormone disruptors that can interfere with your body's delicate balance and even irritate your skin. Switch conventional perfumes for toxin-free scents created with pure essential oils.
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