Bringing Down The House with Actor Jared Houseman

Aussie actor Jared Houseman gives us the scoop about working his craft in the NY, his favourite Brooklyn cafés and some of his joys of living in the city: "You're not really living in New York if you haven't encountered the smell of urine at least once throughout the day!"

The (Little) Kids Guide to NYC

While there are endless lists of fun things to do in NYC for the big kids, what happens when you have friends or family in town that have little ones? Victoria McEvoy is mum to 2-year-old Polly and 3-year-old Charlie and works part-time for fashion designer Tory Burch. Originally from Sydney, she's lived in the Upper West Side in New York for nine years and here she gives Billabout her guide to keeping kids entertained (which mainly involves running them around Central Park until they pass out).

Introducing Gonzo Reporter Max Little - Getting To Know You with Rose Byrne

Gonzo reporter Max Little has just arrived in New York from Australia! He promised Billabout an exclusive interview with Aussie superstar actress Rose Byrne. We sent him out with the crew, so let's see how he went...

Tropfest, the World’s Largest Short Film Festival Crosses the Pacific

Billabout caught up with Tropfest founder, John Polson, about the festival’s journey from Darlinghurst to Manhattan’s Bryant Park. "I'm looking at ways of combining the two cultures in a really fun way - I want to pack that park out. There is nothing like getting a picnic blanket and sitting in the park with a glass of wine to watch great films."

Coffee Trails Book Launch at Toby's Estate Coffee Shop NYC

The mind behind the beans at Toby's Estate, Toby Smith, is launching his new book Coffee Trails tonight at the Brooklyn coffee shop. Join the Toby's crew for coffee and cocktails and hear personal stories from Toby's adventures around the globe sourcing the world's best coffee beans. 7.30pm until 9.30pm at 125 North 6th St (between Bedofrd and Berry), Brooklyn, NY 11249RSVP: kate@tobysestate.com

Coachella 2012. Desert. Music. Party!

Alright all you Aussies hitting Coachella this weekend, we want to hear your war stories and see your Gonzo photos. Tweet what you're going to check out @billabout #Auschella, instagram @billabout and Facebook @billabout. And of course a big shout out to Gotye, the only Aussie artist playing the festival.

Gallery Update! Aussie Bands Invade NYC/SXSW Aussie BBQ

Billabout crashed the 2012 SXSW AUSSIE BBQ + 2012 NYC BBQ and caught all the best breaking Australian acts. Hit the photo gallery below! Stay tuned for backstage interviews and live performance videos to come. NYC/SXSW AUSSIE BBQ PHOTO GALLERY

Making it in America with 'Silly Country Kid,' co-founder of Eight Mile Creek NYC and Gum Tree LA - WILL FORD

On his way to India in 1999, Will Ford stopped by New York to visit family, and he has since traversed the country in a pickup truck and established businesses on each coast – all while keeping his Aussie accent strong!

George Byrne on LA, Music and the ‘Perils of Dating in America’

Billabout catches up with LA based musician George Byrne about his primary school rock band, touring with Missy Higgins, American girls and how his songs ended up on the Jersey Shore.

Clear Skies for Darkheart's Weatherman

Lucas Crandles and Timothy Nash are Mebourne-ites and the co-creators of Darkheart Productions. Billabout catches up with Lucas to talk about the making of their television show The Weathermen, their new media model of funding it, and how they hope to make it in America.

Aussie Designers Making Their Woolmark at NYFW: Katherine Keating Interviews Kym Ellery & Fernando Frisoni

Australian fashion designers Kym Ellery and Fernando Frisoni, recently recognised by Woolmark and Australians in New York Fashion Foundation, were invited to showcase their wares in a special pre-fashion week viewing. Billabout contributor Katherine Keating caught up with the two rising designers over lunch at the Crosby Street Hotel in New York to discuss the Australian fashion industry, creating their own labels, and making it as a fashion designer.

Gotye Enchants New York in Concert: Live Photo Gallery

On Monday night, Billabout caught Australian multinstrumentalist Gotye (real name: Wally De Backer) at the Bowery Ballroom in NYC. The Melbourne native and five-time Aria winner played to a sold-out crowd of everyone from friends and fellow Aussies to hipsters and yuppies.

The Aussie Meat Pie Hits the Big Apple

The Aussie meat pie has made it to Times Square, New York! With Australia's Pie Face chain opening their flagship American store on the 26th of January - Australia Day. More than 50 stores are planned in New York and nation wide pie domination in the works. Billabout caught up with founder Wayne Homschek.

Happy 1st Birthday Billabout!!

Happy Australia Day! And Happy 1st Birthday Billabout! A big thanks to everyone involved with Billy; for checking us out, letting us chat you up, and of course, to all our contributors. Now that Billy's a year old we're walking and talking (yes, an early developer) and we have big plans ahead for our year ahead. Keep an eye out for all the fun and games planned in 2012. Tonight we'll be celebrating this important day in cities across America and we'd love you to join us for a glass or two. Here's our list of parties... Where will you be?

"Happy Australia Day, Mate!"

According to Gerald Wilkes, emeritus professor of English at the University of Sydney writing in “A Dictionary of Australian Colloquialisms”, the use of the term "mate" goes back to the 1890s. But what exactly does an Aussie mean these days when they address someone as "mate"? Well, just in time for Australia Day, a group of young Australians led by ad man David Gillespie decided to explain the meaning of "mate" to the rest of us.

Toby's Estate New Brew-klyn Digs

Brooklyn has been blessed with the new arrival of Aussie coffee brand Toby's Estate! Donning a new roaster and café in Williamsburg, Aussie expats and local hipsters are embracing the flat whites and Vegemite toast in full-force. Billabout caught up with founder Toby Smith to talk beans and discuss why he's decided to come stateside.

Mark Visser's Nine Lives: Interview with the Daredevil Adventure Athlete

Big wave surfing requires some serious skill and guts...but how about catching a mountain high wave at midnight? In 2011, pro-surfer Mark Visser, 29, completed 'Night Rider', a nighttime surfing expedition in Hawaii. Billabout caught up with the daredevil to hear about this feat and his future extreme adventures.

LA BOOOM! Interview with Los Angeles based Actor Claire van der Boom

Claire van der Boom is a self-described “Aussie bogan” and an actor based in LA. Over a bowl of granola (with milk) Billabout catches up with her about the entertainment industry, her childhood and how toilet humour saves her nerves during auditions.

Join Penfolds (RED) in Support of World AIDS Day This Thursday in San Fran

Join Penfolds and raise awareness and realize the goal of an AIDS free generation in 2015 as we turn Ghirardelli Square red for World Aids Day.

Get Your Mo On


LA-based Melbournite Adam Garone, Founder and Global CEO of Movember, gives Billabout an insider's perspective on starting the global movement that is literally "Changing the Face of Men’s Health."

The Dog Fart Heard Around The World: Mambo Launch in the U.S.

Mambo has arrived! After depriving Americans of one of our country’s most iconic labels for over 25 years, Mambo is finally bringing their irreverent melange of surf/street/skate wear to the USA. How does a brand renowned for their unconventional approach achieve this long overdue leap? Simple: Throw an all-out banging party replete with scantily clad swimwear models, an indoor quarter-pipe and a indie rock super-group amidst the galleries and lofts of Chelsea in Manhattan. Billabout donned its best vintage Reg Mombassa and went to check out the party...

Running the Bank and the Marathon with Jason Keighery

Jason Keighery works in the financial markets, heading up the Equity Derivatives Desk for British bank Collins Stewart. Having arrived to the US in 1993 on a rowing scholarship for the University of Charleston, he eventually transferred to UNC and in 2000, Keighery packed up and moved to New York. Billabout catches up with Keighery to talk on working NY finance and running more marathons than most.

Billabout Launch Party in NYC

Last night in SoHo, New York, the Australian creative community descended upon Brinkley’s Bar and Restaurant to celebrate the launch of Billabout. Over fine Penfolds wine, the lively crowd mingled, dined, danced and celebrated the achievements of different Australians. Click for Billabout Launch Party Photo Gallery.

On Your Bike with Photographer Bridget Fleming of Downtownfrombehind

Born and bred in Newcastle, New South Wales, Bridget Fleming moved to New York in the winter of 2008. Upon her arrival, the 31 year old bought a secondhand bicycle and started to explore the architecture of downtown Manhattan.

In The Pocket with Mark Beckaus: Pocket Fest Short Film Festival

Faceless anarchists in remote Northern California…A father reflecting on his life post Hurricane Katrina...Bloody wolves on desert highways in 29 Palms…These are just a few of the inspirations that were revealed at the inaugural Pocket Fest Film Festival, screened at the Pacific Design Center’s Silver Screen Theatre in Los Angeles last week.

Video: Washington Live Performance and Interview (In the Dunny)

Immediately after Washington's 2011 SXSW set in Austin Texas, Billabout met lead singer Megan Washington backstage for an interview. When we told her that we needed a quiet and well lit space, she said "follow me." She proceeded to escort us into the men's bathroom, past the men peeing, and into the last stall. "Here you go, it's lit and quiet in the dunny."

'Writers are a neurotic bunch' says Georgia Clark

Georgia Clark, 31, is an Australian writer and published author based in New York. Billabout caught up with her to talk about her books, Manhattan’s stench, and her love of Brooklyn.

Apply Now for the Green Card Lottery

It's that time of the year again; the U.S. Green Card lottery! The application period starts on Tuesday, October 4 at noon Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) and ends on Saturday, November 5 at noon (EDT).

Invitation: Chloe Chick Summit's NYC

On Friday October 14th the Peaks Foundation is hosting a fundraising launch party at the Museum of the City of New York to raise crucial funds for empowering women and girls worldwide. Tickets are $100 and include canapes, beer, wine, vodka cocktails, a mountain of prizes and DJ dance tunes until 1am – tickets can be purchased "here".

Blow-In: An exhibition in LA, Interview with Featured Photographer Alicia Rose

Sydney born photographer Alicia Rose sits down with Billabout to talk about Blow-In, a group exhibition currently on show at the "Museum & Crane gallery" in Los Angeles. Inspired by life on American soil, she and fellow Antipodean artists William-Guillaume Saussay, Johnny Romeo and Lara Meyerratken reveal their vibrant and nuanced works that reflect a uniquely Aussie experience of creativity.

AiF Screen Hugh Jackman's New Film Real Steel in LA

We Love Hugh Jackman. He's buff, he's tough, he's handsome, he's the man. And he has a new film... V Australia, the official sponsor of Australians in Film (AiF), are screening Hugh Jackman's new film Real Steel on Tuesday, September 27 at 7:30 pm at the Writers Guild Theater, 135 South Doheny Drive in Beverly Hills. Members of the AiF can attend the screening for free and non-members are asked to give $20 to support future programs. Go support Aussie films and V Australia! For more info check out the V Australia blog.

At Home by the Fire with Sass & Bide's Heidi Middleton

Billabout steals Middleton away from her family to reflect on how her role has changed since the Myer purchase, why they've chosen London fashion week over New York, and we discover how they've become a global success-- including giving Sarah Jessica Parker a jacket from their shoulders.

Sleeping Over with Jonathan Frolich, GM of the Andaz Hotel NYC

Jonathan Frolich, the General Manager at "Andaz 5th Ave", is reimagining the hotel experience. He's created a homely oasis in Midtown Manhattan which is no easy feat considering a bustling Bryant Park is located across the street. Embracing local farm sourced ingredients and open kitchen function rooms, the hotel has a boutique aesthetic, but at scale. Billabout joins Frolich for a chat in the living room like second floor of the hotel to see what drives this global hotel guru.

Om Bleicher: A Life of Art and Galleries in Los Angeles

Residing in LA for the last twelve years, Brisbane born gallerist Om Bleicher has personified a new era for Australia’s global identity. The antiquated notion of “Aussies” as hard-living crocodile wrestlers weaned on a diet of raw meat and beer is in dire need of an upgrade, and Bleicher is helping to reverse this stereotype.

Stopping to Smell the Roses with Actor Tahyna Tozzi

Los Angeles is known as the home of the “Hollywood diva,” but that's fortunately not the case with Cronulla born Tahyna Tozzi, who certainly breaks the status quo with her refreshingly down-to-earth demure. With roles in X-Men Origins: Wolverine and a range of indie films, as well as a production company with her flat-mate and fellow Aussie Teresa Palmer, Tozzi clearly isn’t afraid of hard work.

Snaps from V High Photo Competition

Alright all you snap happy travelers, we want to see your pics from the air up there! Billabout is holding a photography competition to see who can take the best pic from V High (very high, get it). Show us your view at 35,000 feet, catch travelers sleeping with their mouth open or show us anything fun and interesting up V high (mile high club photos are discouraged). So book your flight and get snapping! Winning photos will land themselves...

The Kin: Summer Residency

Whenever I see the Kin play, I feel like I’m one of the people I envy who were lucky enough to witness Jeff Buckley playing spontaneous shows in New York before he became an iconic part of music history. In taking the spirit of Australia’s infamous hero Ned Kelly one step further, The Kin have started hijacking restaurants and public gatherings in what they call a ‘musical robbery’. Check out their robbery of the Virgin Mobile house at SXSW in Austin, Texas below...

Nash Edgerton Gets Arty, Talks Bear

From his upbringing in country New South Wales to the big screen of Star Wars, The Matrix and Moulin Rouge!, Nash Edgerton is not just a stunt man, he is also a director and writer with an unbridled love for a dance-off with strangers.

Guide: Los Angeles Live Music Venues

L.A is full of live music and incredible venues. From stadiums to basement bars, you can find amazing concerts and events any night of the week. Here, Billabout recommends our favorite (and on the intimate side) spots to catch some tunes in the city of Angels. 1. On The Rox at "The Roxy"

Vaughan Dead Is A Stone Fox

I knew I really liked "Vaughan Dead" when he showed me the tattoo on his arm that says “I went to the tattoo shop and all I got was this lousey tattoo”. Vaughan does a lot of cool things like writes for Surfing World, Monster Children Magazine and is in a punk/horror pop band called the Goons of Doom with surfer and artist Ozzie Wright.

Rapping up the day with Australian Wine & Kid Cudi

Cleveland born rapper "Kid Cudi" played to a packed crowd during sunset at "Williamsburg’s Waterfront" stage on Wednesday night. As you might imagine, the venue wasn’t too shabby and "Wine Australia" made sure everyone had a classy drink in their hand. See the full live performance and "photo gallery here".

It's About Time Andy Clockwise

Billabout caught up with the Australian musical genius at SXSW earlier this year so you can get a taste of the treat in you're in for. Check out the videos to see his incredibly high-energy performances in action, and Clockwise's tales from the road and what advice he offers to making it in America.

The Parentals’ Restaurant Guide to NYC

Choosing restaurants to take your parents to requires a different approach to when friends are in town. An hour-and-a-half wait for a table flies by when you’re knocking back cocktails in a loud bar with friends, but mum and dad dining needs thought and consideration. Here are a few of Billabout’s suggestions to make sure your folks have a delicious time, and be sure to add your own favourites to the comments area at the bottom.

Actress Emma Lung on Crying and Wanking

Who is Emma Lung, you ask? Well, she’s a better actor than George Clooney, changes accents like a jukebox and is able to play any song on the piano just by listening to it. Basically Emma is a hurricane of talent - that is if hurricanes were really good looking and didn’t destroy things. Everybody who meets her loves her.

Empire of The Sun, Miami Horror, Girl Talk at Governors Ball Music Fest this Saturday in NYC

One of Australia's hottest and best live bands, Empire of The Sun, is playing this Saturday, June 18th, at "The Governors Ball Music Festival" in New York. Other headliners include Girl Talk and Pretty Lights. Also on the bill is up and coming Aussie indie act, Miami Horror. Go dance!

Steph Gilmore rocks in NYC

"Steph Gilmore" took time out from winning at life in the waves to hang out in NYC for a few days. Fresh off the plane, Quicksilver threw Steph a dinner at the recently opened Jamaican restaurant "Miss Lily’s" in SOHO. Steph's rad music taste then took her over to The Bowery Ballroom for"'Dylan Fest'" - a celebration of Bob Dylan's 70th birthday. We can't wait till Steph comes back to hang in NYC!

The Chaser's Chris Taylor EATS NYC

When funny man Chris Taylor isn't being funny with The Chaser team he's eating; seriously the man knows his food and restaurants. Billabout caught up with the comedian during his recent culinary tour of New York City and drilled him about what we're missing and where to take mum and dad. 9. Best dessert? The caramelised torija at "Degustation", closely followed by the chocolate soufflé at "Perilla". (I'd also gladly eat "Momofuku's" steamed pork buns for dessert - in fact I have on two separate occasions.)

Profile: Hugh Evans, Taking the Opportunity to "Kick Arse"

Hugh Evans, the 2004 Young Australian of the Year, is a passionate humanitarian. He recently completed his Masters in International Relations at Cambridge University and now lives between New York and LA, where he runs the Global Poverty Project. The organization is not only committed to raising awareness but also the effectiveness of ordinary people, businesses and governments to end extreme poverty. Billabout caught up with the driven entrepreneur in his LA office where he apologised for fatigue induced by an impromptu belated birthday jam the night before, which took place in his kitchen with good friends the Hume brothers from band Evermore.

Video: Cloud Control Interview and Live Performance

Billabout followed Cloud Control, a rocking 4-piece band from the Blue Mountains (NSW, Australia), on their journey through the SXSW festival. From hitchhiking with a local mum in her station wagon to make it to their first gig on time at a pub to a packed-out show at the Aussie BBQ.

Chatting up Animal Kingdom's James Frecheville

James Frecheville, 19, is an actor from Melbourne currently based in Los Angeles. A role in 2010's award winning crime family thriller "Animal Kingdom" propelled him and the rest of the cast into the Hollywood spotlight.

Video: Art Vs. Science Interview and Live Performance at SXSW Music Festival

Sydney based Indie electro trio Art Vs Science recently wrapped up their US tour and gave crowds a taste of their magic at South By South West in Austin, Texas this March. They played a string of packed shows culminating in an explosive performance at The Aussie BBQ event.

Inspired: Behind the lens of Russell James

Russell James is an Australian photographer best known for capturing the world’s most beautiful women in exotic locations – think Victoria’s Secret models, Sports Illustrated covers and celebrity portraits. However, it was his upbringing in the isolated town of Derby, 1500 kilometers from Perth, that inspired his Nomad Two Worlds exhibition – the collaborative art project he created with Indigenous artists in Australia, America and Haiti.

SURF NYC

Personally I’m on the verge of hysteria when I think about winter ending. As spring keeps postponing itself, I like to participate in activities that fuel my hallucination of summer. One of these is visiting the most relaxed store in the city – Saturdays NYC. You can get a real espresso (non of this drip shit) and browse their new batch of Saturdays Spring/ Summer gear.

Press Play

Profile Q&A: Corbin Harris, Pro Skateboarder, TV Presenter...

Corbin Harris, 28, is a professional skateboarder, author, TV presenter and designer – and he put in all the hard yards to get there. In 2000, Harris visited the U.S. for the first time on a skate tour, which ignited a long held love affair for the land of the stars and stripes

Photo Gallery: Aussie Bands Live from the SXSW Music Festival in Austin, Texas

Billabout hit Austin, Texas last week for the annual South by South West (SXSW) music festival. Hundreds of bands descend on Austin every year for the ultimate Texas trifecta: live music, beer and BBQ! Over 50 Aussie bands were on the roster throughout the four days, culminating in an all-day, all-Aussie BBQ concert on Saturday... For the full live performance photo gallery: Click Here

SXSW 2011: Five Bands, Five Reasons Why & the Annual Aussie BBQ

Drowning in a sea of information and not sure who to see at 2011's South by Southwest Music Festival (SXSW) in Austin, TX? Here's the inside scoop from Billabout Swagman and all-around indie music insider Katrina Symonds. Also, check out the lineup for the annual Aussie BBQ presented by Stage Mothers and Sounds Australia on Saturday (3/19), featuring tons of great up-and-coming bands.

A Portrait: Kit Willow, fashion designer

Australian fashion designer Kit Willow first showed at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) in 2005. Since then, she’s been captivating the Australian fashion scene and expanding her clothing label, Willow, to 35 employees, with global distribution and three boutiques across Sydney and Melbourne. Willow's been growing more than just her company, mind you -- she's now the proud mum of two young children. Billabout catches up with Kit for a lunch date and to talk NYFW past and present.

Q&A: John Gannon, Bra Boy, pro fitness trainer, airplane travel tips

What are three good training exercises people can do in a hotel room? Stretching. Put some music on and jump around. Sex.

Profile: Ry Cuming, Musician

Discovered in a hostel hallway in Costa Rica in 2006, musician Ry Cuming is based in L.A. these days, and has found success performing in storied venues and climbing the charts with his beautiful duet, "Always Remember Me," featuring Sara Bareilles. Billabout caught up with the 22-year-old before he headed back to the homeland to open for Maroon 5 on their Australian tour.

Australian fashion photographer Russell James collaborates with Indigenous Australian artists, opens exhibit in L.A.

“I live in a house, but I still go bush,” said Gullie, otherwise known as Dr. Richard Walley, OAM (Medal of the Order of Australia), a contributing artist visiting Southern California for the opening of Nomad Two Worlds, the collaborative art project created by renowned Australian fashion photographer Russell James and sponsored by V Australia.

Boy & Bear announce SXSW music festival dates

The SXSW music festival is almost upon us. Joining the lineup alongside more than 50 Aussie bands is Boy & Bear, who just booked four sets at Austin, TX's music festival this March.

Feature Q&A: Jasper Leak, Jazz Man

My process is always changing. The initial germ of an idea can literally come from anywhere, and from then on ideas seem to stew around and grow in my subconcious. Sometimes, by the time I sit down to knock an idea out, it can come out close-to-done. Other times, I'll sit down and mess around with a sample, a new synth patch, a keyboard, whatever. Collaboration is key for me when it comes to writing actual "songs."

A Broadway insider's guide to NYC theater

Sarah McLellan has acted on Broadway, toured the country as lead singer of a rock band and now works as a food and travel writer and TV Host. She founded the Australian Broadway Network (ABN) in 2009. Here, she gives Billabout her tips on how to get the best out of all the amazing theater in New York.

Cut Copy Release New Album, Tour the States (Coachella)

Billabout is dancing: Cut Copy released their third album, Zonoscope, in the U.S. today. The indie electro specialists are one of Australia's hottest exports, establishing a huge following in the states and around the globe

Profile: Hamish Parsons, Lobster Importer

South El Monte, Los Angeles. Hamish Parsons is at ease as he scoops out a giant lobster from a tank with his bare hands. He laughs when its fire-orange claws dig into his arms and pull on his black shirt “I like it when they’re feisty like this," Hamish says. "It means they're healthy and happy." Hamish is an earnest and ruggedly handsome man who enjoys his work. These eight-year-old mature lobsters, weighing between four and eight pounds, are flown in live from Southern Australia, where they are caught in the pristine, cold waters off the coast. Once happy in their tanks in L.A., they are Fed-Ex'd overnight - still alive, packed in wood shavings -- to the top restaurants in LA, San Fran and Napa.

Profile: Steph Gilmore, Surf Goddess & Rockstar

Stephanie Gilmore’s office is the ocean. As a 23-year-old professional surfer sponsored by Quiksilver she travels the world chasing waves. When she’s waiting for the swell to pick up, she’s usually to be found strumming her mini electric guitar. Not a bad life, if you can get it. Here she talks to Billabout about her passions: surfing and music.

Profile: Zjantelle Cammisa Markel, Immigration Attorney

Why did you want to work in the U.S.? My job is all about helping people who want to live and work in New York (and the rest of the U.S.) Sometimes, people come in and they say, “Oh, I only want to be here for 18 months.” I respond with, “Sure. I’ll see you in 18 months when you’re begging me to help you stay.”

Q&A: Andy Valmorbida's vision of the contemporary art world

What have you learned from working with Giorgio Armani and his iconic brand? What I learned most from working with his team is that when you lead your company, there is only one person that can get the job done, and that's yourself. He works so hard and runs a company in the most effective, disciplined manner. To me, he's pretty much the most influential man on this planet.

Q&A: Nick Barber, an architect's world

Lost in Translation - The Billabout Dictionary

This is a fun, free-form glossary of sorts for us to help out the Yanks, Canucks and other non-Aussies who are baffled by some of the more obscure sayings and expressions from Down Under.

Profile: Nick Barber, Architect

Slice of Advice What to keep in mind when moving to the U.S.? Stay true to who you are. The Australians who I have seen have the most success are no different today than they were when they arrived.

Profile: Nick Mathers, Restauranteur

What to keep in mind when moving to the U.S.? All the red tape may seem like it’s too great an obstacle to get here and make it work, but Americans love to over-complicate even the simplest of things. Keep the gift Australia has given you: keep it simple.

Profile Q&A: Taj Burrow, Pro Surfer

What inspires you? Watching surf, skate and snowboard movies inspires me. People wrecking themselves trying to make a huge air -- I love seeing that shit.

Q&A: A journey with Nancy Pilcher behind the cover of Vogue Australia

What's your best style tip? I don’t need to give anyone styling tips. I only like to think of what Coco Chanel said: “If you look at a woman once, she is well dressed; if you look twice, she is over dressed." Oh, how true this is in our day and age!

Profile Q&A: John Gannon, Pro Surf Trainer

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Have fun, but don't be a dick head.

Profile: Shelley Wright, Music Biz Mover 'n' Shaker

What are you currently working on? Debut albums from CEO, Tame Impala, Bag Raiders, BENI and Canyons, and new albums from Cut Copy and the Presets. Plus, SXSW, WMC and Coachella planning.

Profile: Nancy Pilcher, Fashion & Media Icon

What inspires your creativity? People with vision and curiosity inspire me. My drive for excellence inspires me to delve into areas where I can meet people who are achievers. Inspiration doesn’t come from one source, it’s part of dreaming and then allowing oneself to explore ideas and form new horizons.

Profile: Jasper Leak, Musician

Q&A: Tim Irwin on Napa Valley's wine culture

The greatest bottle of wine you’ve ever drunk? I think wine is always about the experience and who you share it with, so I have had many great bottles.

Travel tips from a pro surfer

What do you miss most about home? Having grown up in the west, I miss the clean water and fresh air. I love getting back to western Australia where, when I wake up and look outside, I know exactly what the waves are like without even seeing the ocean. I love having that connection with a place.

30 Portraits in 30 Days: Vincent Fantauzzo takes on NYC

Vincent Fantauzzo, the gregarious Melbourne painter best known for his incredible triptych portrait of Heath Ledger -- which won 2008’s Archibald Prize -- recently spent a month in New York painting 30 individuals who he feels define the city.

Profile: Jessica Hart, Model

What is your favorite quote? - “Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” - Kate Moss. What's your guilty pleasure? - Pizza and pasta.

Q&A: Musical Journeys and a Didgeridoo with Isaac Koren of The Kin

I was jamming in the backyard around a bonfire with a mate named Sam Joole [...] in Sydney, and we were 14 and 15 years old. He said, "Sing for me, Zack," and I started wailing the blues and haven't stopped since. Two weeks later, I was singing in his band in front of 250 kids.

U.S. travel tips from an architectural wiz

U.S. travel tips from Nick Barber, architectural wizard and man of the world.

U.S. and Aussie travel tips for music lovers

Travel tips for music lovers from music lover and frontman for the Kin, Isaac Koren.

Profile: Benedict Dos Remedios, Artist

When you’re not working what can you be found doing? Working [laugh]. Or surfing.

Q&A: Modular Record's Shelley Wright on the NYC indie music scene

What's one great band you’ve worked with, and what do you think makes them great? The Foo Fighters – because Dave Grohl is the biggest legend in the world.

Profile: Andy Valmorbida, Art Dealer

I created a vision and business model in the art world focused on mixing the old with the new, the masters with modern and contemporary. I went against the traditional model, and no one back in the day took me seriously; I stuck to my guns and never changed and it’s proven to be the next generation on how art is sold and presented today.

Profile: Isaac Koren, Musician

What is your advice to musicians in Australia who want to break into the U.S.? I would say find out what region of the country would most appreciate their sound, and find a way to do a three-month sojourn with some locals, or make a record there and make it means something. Spending thousands for airfares for a flash in the pan is a waste.

Travel and shopping tips from a fashion icon

Australian travel tips from Nancy Pilcher, Vogue editorial director-at-large.

Profile: Tim Irwin, Winemaker

What are the top three things any traveler must do when visiting Australia? Kiss a local, eat a meat pie and learn to surf.