Have you seen who’s behind the (not so) Healthy Star Ratings system?
I saw a TV commercial recently for Uncle Toby’s Oat sachets and the main focus of the advert was how amazingly healthy they are. Apparently these Oats achieve a “4 healthy star rating” – and the higher the star rating, the healthier the product. So they say. Whilst I don’t want to pick on oats specifically, as I think they’re probably one of the not-as-bad-as-the-other-cereals out there, it really highlights how dangerously misleading these Healthy Star Ratings are. Initially I thought the Healthy Rating System was just based on old, outdated (incorrect) advice, but when I saw who was involved in its creation, it took a far more sinister turn.
What are Healthy Star Ratings?
This is an Australian initiative, and it’s jointly funded by the Australian, state and territory governments, and developed in partnership with industry and public health and consumer groups.
I took a further look into these groups, who have jointly developed these ratings, and they include the Australian Beverages Council, and the Australian Food and Grocery Council.
And just who makes up these bodies?
Members of the Australian Beverages Council include:
- Coca-Cola Amatil Pty Ltd
- Coca-Cola South Pacific
- Heinz Australia P/L
- PepsiCo Australia Holdings Pty Ltd
- Red Bull Australia Pty Ltd
- Tropico Fruits Pty Ltd
Among many others… (Surely we're not going to ever see health ratings on Red Bull?)
The Australian Food and Grocery Council has on its board:
- Clive Stiff who is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Unilever Australia & NZ – their brands include Bertolli, Streets Ice Cream and my favourite Flora pro-activ
- Trevor Clayton who is Chief Executive Officer for Nestle Australia Ltd
- Andrew Towle who is Managing Director for Kellogg (Australia) Pty Ltd
- Darren O’Brien who is Managing Director for Mondelez Foods Australia (better known as Kraft Foods and Cadbury)
- Michael Ryan who is General Manager of Mars Chocolate, and
- Peter West, Managing Director of Lion Dairy & Drinks
So the very companies who produce packaged, processed convenience food have very helpfully come up with a healthy star rating system? And we’re supposed to use this to tell us what is healthy food we should be eating lots of?
How to get a high star rating?
No surprisingly the star system is based on the old beliefs that whole grains are good for us, and fat to be avoided. Products receiving above 4 stars will include whole-grain foods, low-fat milk and reduced fat cheese, and extra lite (urgh I hate that word, theirs, not mine) spreads.
And how to get a low rating?
Products getting below 1 star include those that are full fat, regular fat yoghurt, high saturated fat cheese, salted butter, coconut oil (yes, they expressly list coconut oil on the less healthy foods list) and of course, untrimmed meats. So we can pretty much assume if it’s a natural, unprocessed, paleo food, it won’t get a high healthy star rating.
So I’ve come up with a new system to help you use the star rating system to identify healthy foods:
If it has a healthy star rating, avoid it tweet this quote
What’s your opinion on the Healthy Star Rating system?
Paleo Food Shopping Guide: Coles
Don’t judge me – sometimes I buy my paleo food from Coles, my local grocery store. I live near a great greengrocer, butcher and an Aldi – and have a twice monthly farmers market a few suburbs away – but sometimes time and budget make paleo shopping in Coles the best option.
So can you buy paleo in Coles?
A few years ago Coles lacked so many paleo staples – but now I see more and more paleo friendly lines appearing by the week. The fat-is-good-for-you and it-matters-where-your-meat-comes-from messages seem to finally be going mainstream.
This week I saw a whole new line in grass-fed beef at my local coles – so thought it’s a good time to assess the store for their paleoness.
I'm not going to go into fresh produce too much, but they do have a range of organic fruit and veggies.
Meat
This is the new range of grass-fed meat I found, Graze. It’s also hormone free and comes from 180 NSW and Victoria cattle farms. So far they have porterhouse, scotch fillet, rib-eye, eye fillet, rump, schnitzel, lean mince, roasts, stir fry, casserole and ribs. So if you buy from Coles – support this range – we want more of it!
In terms of chicken, Coles offer the Inglewood Farms brand of organic chicken. I always get a whole chicken ($11.90 a kilo) instead of chicken breasts ($31.40 a kilo) – you literally get the rest of the bird free that way – and who doesn't love a roast chicken?
How about kangaroo? One of the great things about kangaroo is that they aren't farmed – so you know you’re getting naturally reared meat. Buy the plain steaks though, and avoid the pre-marinated or processed kangaroo products.
Eggs
Eggs are easy as most people seem to be on-board with free-range eggs now. Unfortunately Coles don’t offer Omega-3 enriched eggs (get these from Woolworths). And my other gripe is that eggs aren’t stamped in Australia.
Fats
Coconut oil used to be a foreign concept to the big supermarkets. Now Coles offer two Melrose Organic jars ($8.75 or $11.72 for 300ml – good for an emergency) and also the Prochef coconut oil spray I wrote about before.
Coles also sell a jar of Naturals by Melrose Almond Butter Spread ($8.03 for 250g) or Cashew Spread Butter ($8.42).
Luckily olive oil has always been abundant. There are loads of brands. Which is your favourite?
If you’re looking for more animal fats, you can also get a rendered duck fat from Coles.
Canned paleo
A few brands of coconut milk are available including TCC, Trident and Ayam. I always buy Ayam as it has the best ingredients. Also, never buy the light versions (you can always add water yourself).
The other tinned ingredient I buy is tomatoes (here’s why). There are loads available, but I find a brand like Mutti has the best ingredients.
Paleo baking
You’ll find several brands of almond meal/ almond flour including Freshlife and the Lucky brand, but with prices upwards of $22 a kilo, they aren’t cheap. Bob’s Red Mill organic coconut flour is available as about $26 a kilo too.
Other things in Coles
You can also find Melrose Apple Cider Vinegar (see what you can do with it here) and several types of Pink Himalayan Salt
If you’re looking for a bread alternative, you’ll be please to find nori seaweed wraps.
So over to you – what paleo friendly items have you found in Coles that we should know about? Which of the big supermarkets do you think is the most paleo friendly?
Low Carb Down Under – Sydney
Saturday was the Sydney leg of the Low Carb Down Under seminar series, that has been touring Australia.
What a fantastic day it was! There were twelve speakers from diverse backgrounds covering a range of topics. I was honoured to be one of the speakers and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Almost 300 people attended the event and everyone seemed really keen to learn and soak up the atmosphere. There seemed to be a significant number of medical and healthcare providers in the audience, which is a great sign that the message is being spread to the right people.
So, here is my brief summary of the day.
Dr Ron Ehrlich—“Lessons from the Past”
Dr Ron Ehrlich is a holistic Sydney dentist who started the day with a great overview of where we are – and where we’ve come from. I found it interesting to hear Ron talking about how he looks for underlying causes – rather than treating symptoms, which seems to be the typical modern method.
Dr Simon Thornley—“Has Dietary Research Helped Us With Our Food Choices
New Zealand Public Health Physician Dr Simon Thornley has written a paper on sugar with Dr Rod Taylor and Dr Ken Sikaris (“Sugar restriction: the evidence for a drug-free intervention to reduce cardiovascular disease risk”). Simon is an academic who has conducted extensive research on sugar, scientifically coming to many of the same conclusions as those of us in the paleo community.
Jimmy Moore—Update on low carb around the world
An update on the remarkable progress Jimmy is making with his N=1 experiment on Nutritional Ketotis. Interestingly a number of people I spoke to in the audience are conducting similar experiments of their own. It’s going to be extremely interesting to examine how this has gone in a few months time.
David Gillespie—“Sweet Poison and Big Fat Lies”
Author and Lawyer David Gillespie took us through his extensive sugar research – and findings. Many people in Australia were first introduced to the concept of giving up sugar through David’s books, so it was great to hear from him.
Sarah Wilson—“I Quit Sugar”
Sarah is the journalist who wrote the popular I Quit Sugar program. I was very interesting to hear her speak about her poor health, and how quitting sugar changed things for her.
Costa Georgiadis—“Product Not Produce”
Costa has the most incredible energy! He bought along soil and compost and demonstrated to us the importance of understanding exactly where your food comes from.
Christine Cronau—”The Fat Revolution!”
Christine is author of the Fat Revolution. Her talk clearly spelt out exactly why we need to have fat in our diets and must not be scared of it.
Dr Rod Tayler—“Doctors, Health, Weight and Carbohydrates”
Anesthesiologist and giveupsugar.com founder Rod Taylor explained how damaging sugar is – and just how much of a problem it is.
Aaron McKenzie from Origin of Energy—”Combining Fitness and Nutrition”
Aaron spoke about fitness, from an evolutionary perspective
Suzanne Crawt – Paleo in Australia
My talk started with my story explaining how I found Paleo and the huge difference it made to me. I then spoke about the growing, thriving Paleo community in Australia and how people can get involved.
Rob Blomfield—”A farmer’s journey to primal health”
Rob is an Australian farmer who, on finding this lifestyle, made remarkable health improvements. It was great to hear from someone with an insider knowledge on farming.
Vicki Poulter – “Why grass fed animal foods are good for the planet”
Vicki, from Nourishing Australia, gave a wonderful talk in linking the land, animals, soil and our food. This really made clear the importance of eating good quality grass-fed meat.
We finished with a panel question and answer section. With so many diverse speakers, a great wealth of questions were answered.
The whole event was filmed, so hopefully those of you who missed out will be able to watch the talks soon.
It was wonderful to meet so many people interested in, and concerned about their health. It’s clear that the message is spreading and increasing numbers of people are finding out about this lifestyle. I wonder how many people will attend the next seminar series?
The seminar was in Adelaide last night and has one more date left. The final conference is in Brisbane this Saturday. There is still time (just) to buy your ticket at the Low Carb Down Under site. I’m heading to Brisbane this weekend, so if you’re there please come and say hi!
Why Events Like This Matter
Attending events like the Low Carb Down Under seminar reminds me just how powerful it is to step outside of online echo chambers and connect with people in real life. It's one thing to follow a Paleo lifestyle behind a screen, but when you're surrounded by hundreds of people on the same journey—asking similar questions, swapping tips, and sharing stories—it all becomes so much more tangible.
These seminars are about more than the science. They’re about inspiration, encouragement, and accountability. Seeing such a large turnout in Sydney gave me hope that real change is happening—quietly, steadily, and driven by everyday people taking charge of their health.
Conversations Between Sessions
One of the best parts of the day wasn’t even on the stage—it was the conversations in between. In the tea breaks and over lunch, I chatted with GPs, nutritionists, personal trainers, and curious newcomers. Some had just started experimenting with ditching grains or sugar. Others had been low-carb or Paleo for years and were refining their approach.
I spoke to a woman who had reversed her type 2 diabetes after her son urged her to cut out processed carbs. I met a nurse who’s now recommending her patients look at food as their first line of defence—not medication. These conversations often don’t make it onto the speaker schedule, but they’re just as important.
Spotlight on Community Growth
What stood out to me most was the sheer number of people looking to connect locally. So many attendees asked how they could find like-minded people in their area to talk to, share meals with, or start walking groups. I always encourage people to start small. Post in a local Facebook group, suggest a real food picnic, or start a monthly dinner club. Community doesn’t have to be formal—it just has to be consistent.
Building support systems in real life is often what helps people move beyond the short-term excitement of dietary change and into long-term sustainable living. That’s when the real magic happens.
Reflections on Speaker Themes
While every speaker brought something different to the table, several themes clearly emerged across the day:
- Fat is no longer the villain. Over and over again, we heard that fat—particularly from clean, traditional sources—is essential to human health and satiety.
- Sugar is everywhere—and it’s a serious problem. It’s in nearly every processed food on the shelf, and still many people don’t know how damaging it can be to their metabolism and mental health.
- Real food is the answer. Whether Paleo, Primal, or low carb, all paths lead back to one thing: eating food in its most natural, unprocessed state.
This message may sound simple, but its power lies in repetition—and in evidence. More and more healthcare professionals are seeing the benefits of food-based interventions, and I left feeling reassured that the tide is slowly turning.
Looking Ahead to Brisbane
With Brisbane next on the seminar tour, I can’t wait to see how the final leg of the journey unfolds. I suspect the energy and enthusiasm will be just as high, if not higher, as word has spread from the earlier events. For those who haven't yet bought tickets—go! You won’t regret it.
Brisbane also presents a new opportunity for local community members to step up. If you’re attending, consider introducing yourself to someone new. Start a conversation. Ask a speaker a question. Share your story—it might be just what someone else needs to hear.
Online Resources for Those Who Missed Out
If you couldn’t attend one of the Low Carb Down Under events this year, don't worry. The team are fantastic at filming the presentations, and the talks are usually uploaded online in the weeks following. These videos are a great way to stay connected to the movement and continue learning.
Watching a speaker online might not be quite the same as sitting in the room, but it’s still a powerful resource—and one I encourage you to share with friends and family who are curious but not quite ready to jump in.
Final Thoughts
Leaving the Sydney seminar, I felt recharged. More than anything, I felt validated that this way of living and eating isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a powerful, science-backed movement with the potential to change lives.
Thank you to the organisers, the volunteers, the speakers, and every single person who showed up with an open mind. I’ll see some of you in Brisbane—and if not, I’ll keep sharing updates right here.
Let me know in the comments if you attended any of this year's events. What was your biggest takeaway? And who would you love to hear speak at a future event?
Low Carb Down Under – It’s Started!
I’ve just got back from an amazing weekend in Melbourne, where the Low Carb Down Under series started on Saturday.
What an amazing day! I’ve listened to Jimmy Moore’s podcasts for a long time, but to meet him and watch him present is such a different experience. He was a great, inspirational speaker – and despite such a fantastic turnout, he made sure everyone who wanted to speak to him got the chance.
I’ve been following Jimmy Moore’s N=1 Nutritional Ketosis experiment on his blog with great interest, so to hear him talk about this – and take his readings in front of us on stage – was super interesting. It’s quite remarkable how much slimmer Jimmy looked yesterday, even just since the last photo he posted on his blog.
David Gillespie is another great speaker – and the man responsible for leading a lot of people away from sugar; a journey which often leads to a Paleo diet and lifestyle.
I often find conferences like this can be one extreme or the other – either no science at all – or far too sciencey. The talks at Melbourne yesterday really did tick all the boxes.
We heard from Doctors and Scientists; Dr Rod Tayer, Dr Ken Sikaris (this man really needs a blog!), Steven Hamley, explaining why Paleo works (and conventional wisdom doesn’t). We heard from local Melbournites Crystal Fieldhouse, Ivy Thompson & Jo Fitton sharing how they “do” Paleo locally. Crossfit coach Dr George Iacono spoke about crossfit and fitness. Christine Cronau explained how our diets went wrong and spoke about how we should eat. Natalie Kringoudis, is a fertility expert who gave an amazing talk – we even heard from a chef, Mick Reade demonstrating how versatile a Paleo diet can be.
I’m not going to talk too much about the talks until the seminar series is over – because I want YOU to go to one of the remaining dates and soak up the knowledge for yourself!
Even if you don’t live near the remaining venues, consider coming anyway – you will get so much value from the day.
Byron Bay – Wednesday 21st November
Sydney – Saturday 24th November
Brisbane – Saturday 1st December
Adelaide – Tuesday 27th November
I’ve had a lot of comments asking about Darwin and Perth not being part of the tour . If we can get enough people interested, we will make sure they’re included in the next round of Paleo events – just make sure you’ve joined your local Paleo Meetup group so we know you’re interested (there is now a meetup for every state)
I’m excited to be speaking at the Sydney date next week – and will be attending the remaining dates – I hope to see at one of the events.
If you haven’t booked your ticket, do it now before it’s too late!
Paleo Meetup Groups – Have You Joined Yet?
Exciting news! There are now Paleo meet-up groups in every state in Australia! Wherever you live, you can now meet up with local people who eat the same way as you do.
The meet-up groups arrange local dinners, barbecues, picnics, talks – you can even suggest a meetup of your own to the group.
Meetups are a great way of meeting people and finding out about Paleo restaurants and suppliers in your area, so if you haven’t already – join your local Paleo Meetup!
There don’t seem to be any New Zealand Paleo meetup groups yet – why don’t you start one? If you're in the US, Canada or the UK there are lots of Paleo meetup groups, so find your nearest and join up – it's free!
With the exception of Sydney, Perth and Melbourne most of these groups are very new – so spread the word and help to increase the membership! If you live in Darwin, Canberra or Hobart there is also the opportunity to become a co-organiser.
Here are the Australian Paleo Meetup groups
NSW/ Sydney
Victoria/ Melbourne
WA/ Perth
SA/ Adelaide
Queensland/ Brisbane
NT/ Darwin
ACT/ Canberra
Tasmania/ Hobart
So sign up (it's free) get involved!
Have you been to a local Paleo meetup event yet?
All New Paleo Guide To Australia
Just a heads up that I've just updated the free Paleo Guide to Australia (and New Zealand) ebook. The current version now stands at 32 pages full of Paleo information – specific to where you are.
Following on from your suggestions, I've added more listings of Paleo suppliers in each state of Australia and New Zealand (farmers markets, grass-fed meat suppliers, fruit and vegetable suppliers, organic produce, fishmongers and fitness centres). I've also added a whole new section of Paleo Resources.
If you've already subscribed to my newsletter, just visit the same link to get your updated version. If you've not signed up yet, just subscribe using the link below to get your free copy!
I want to keep the Paleo Guide to Australia & New Zealand up to date with the best local Paleo places and stockists throughout Australia and New Zealand. If I've missed anywhere that you know about, please let me know and I'll make sure I add it to the next edition.
I'd also like to add in restaurants that do Paleo food – so let me know of any suggestions that you have in your local area.
Melbourne Paleo
Welcome to those who've found the site through the article in this weekend's “The Age” newspaper.
It's great to see Paleo getting more and more publicity and for more people to consider removing the grains and changing their diets.
If you're interested in finding out about Paleo there's lots of information on the site and a free guide to Paleo Australia ebook you can download now. Sign up to my newsletter on the right to get your free guide.
The Paleo Movement in Melbourne: Then and Now
Back in June 2012, I was honoured to be featured in The Age newspaper in an article titled “Meat and Greet: Modern Hunger for Caveman Diet”. The article explored how the Paleo lifestyle – once seen as a niche movement – was beginning to take off in Melbourne and beyond. It was so encouraging to see mainstream media not only notice Paleo, but take it seriously enough to speak to everyday Australians who were living and breathing the lifestyle.
At the time, there were only a handful of us in Australia talking about Paleo online. The concept was still relatively unknown outside of CrossFit gyms and health forums. The Age article profiled a variety of Paleo advocates: CrossFit trainers, pregnant mums, software developers, and even musicians, all of whom had embraced the lifestyle and were seeing real, tangible health benefits — from clearer skin and better digestion to improved energy and weight loss.
I shared my own story in that piece – how I’d lost 17kg in just three months by cutting grains and processed food and how my lifelong asthma disappeared. That was the moment Paleo stopped being just a personal experiment for me and became a passion to share with others. Soon after, The Paleo Network started gaining traction, and what had been a small personal blog quickly grew into a go-to resource for Australians wanting to embrace a more ancestral approach to health.
Why Paleo Resonates in Melbourne
Melbourne has always had a strong food culture – we love our brunches, our farmers markets, our artisan producers. But alongside the café culture, there’s also been a deep interest in wellness and sustainability. Paleo ticks a lot of boxes for health-conscious Melburnians:
- It focuses on whole, real food, with an emphasis on seasonal and local produce.
- It avoids highly processed foods and seed oils – common culprits in many modern health conditions.
- It’s flexible – Paleo isn’t about deprivation but about choosing the most nourishing options available.
Since 2012, Melbourne has only become more Paleo-friendly. There are now more butchers who understand the value of grass-fed and pasture-raised meat. Organic markets have popped up across the suburbs. Cafés offer grain-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free options – and even if they don’t use the word “Paleo”, they’re speaking the same language.
Even CrossFit boxes and strength gyms across Victoria continue to champion the Paleo way of eating, often combining it with intermittent fasting, cold exposure, and mobility work – all elements inspired by our ancestral roots.
The Impact of Media on the Paleo Movement
Being interviewed by a major newspaper helped bring Paleo into the Australian mainstream. The Age article gave a human face to the movement and highlighted the diversity of people trying this lifestyle – it wasn’t just “fitness bros” or wellness influencers. It was mums, professionals, people with autoimmune conditions, and busy workers looking for sustainable health solutions.
Mainstream media coverage helped break down the misconceptions around Paleo. Suddenly, people weren’t just seeing it as a weird diet based on caveman clichés – they were seeing it as a real option to help them feel better, lose weight, improve digestion, and even reverse chronic conditions.
Today, we have podcasts, Instagram pages, YouTube channels, and documentaries – but back then, a single print article could ignite thousands of conversations. And it did.
Paleo Success Stories from Melbourne
Over the years, I’ve received countless emails from people in Victoria sharing how Paleo changed their lives. A few highlights include:
- Anna from Fitzroy, who healed her PCOS symptoms and lost 10kg without counting calories or doing endless cardio.
- Damien from Richmond, who credits Paleo and intermittent fasting for helping him manage Type 2 diabetes and avoid medication.
- Miriam from St Kilda, who switched her whole family to Paleo after her daughter’s behavioural issues improved dramatically on a grain-free, additive-free diet.
These aren’t isolated cases – they’re part of a growing body of anecdotal evidence showing how a whole food, ancestral diet can help address modern health issues at the root cause.
Where to Start with Paleo in Melbourne
If you’re new to Paleo and found this post through The Age or another mention, here’s where to begin:
- Download my free guide – it’s tailored specifically for Australians, including local ingredient swaps, where to shop, and Aussie-friendly recipes.
- Explore the blog – there’s a treasure trove of information here on topics like batch cooking, eating Paleo on a budget, and navigating social events.
- Join the Paleo community – we’ve got an active mailing list and social media pages full of recipe swaps, events, and support.
- Check out local resources – farmers markets, CrossFit boxes, organic grocers, and ethical butchers are great places to start living Paleo without compromise.
And if you’re not in Melbourne? There are Paleo communities popping up across Australia – from Brisbane to Hobart, Byron Bay to Adelaide – and I feature them regularly here on the site.
Paleo Today: Fad or Foundation?
Back in 2012, critics were quick to dismiss Paleo as a fad. Dietitians called it “extreme” or “unsustainable”. But here we are over a decade later – and Paleo is still going strong. The key reason? It works.
Unlike crash diets or 6-week challenges, Paleo isn’t about deprivation or dogma. It’s about removing inflammatory foods, nourishing your body, and reconnecting with real food. Once people feel the difference – clearer skin, fewer bloating episodes, steady energy, better sleep – they don’t want to go back.
Sure, the name “Paleo” may not be as trendy now as “Whole30”, “Ancestral Health”, or “Clean Keto”, but the principles remain the same: Eat real food. Avoid modern junk. Honour your body’s needs.
Final Thoughts
Looking back at the Age article reminds me just how far the movement has come. I was proud to be one of the early voices advocating for a smarter, ancestral approach to food – and I still am.
If you’re here because of that article or because someone shared it with you: welcome. Whether you’re experimenting with Paleo for the first time, or you’ve been on this journey for a decade, there’s a community here to support you.
Let me know in the comments:
- Did you read the Age article when it came out?
- Have you noticed more Paleo options in Melbourne since 2012?
- What’s your number one tip for someone starting Paleo today?
Let’s keep spreading the word – and keep building a community where ancestral health isn’t a fringe idea, but a normal part of everyday life.
The Paleo Weekend – New Tickets Released!
Note: This is an old post – the next weekend has not yet been finalised, but please sign up to my newsletter if you are interested in the next event!
With just over three weeks left until Australia’s first Paleo Weekend, I’m delighted to announce two new tickets
Choose to come to Cockatoo Island for either the Saturday sessions for $145, the Sunday sessions for just $95 – or both days for $195!
These tickets are for the sessions only – but upgrades are available including all Paleo meals and overnight accommodation on the island!
Saturdays Paleo Lectures will include:
- Jamie Scott,
- Dr Anastasia Boulais,
- Julianna Taylor and
- Dr. Ron Ehrlich
- Fitness techniques, and
- Max DeLacy on barefoot running
Sundays Paleo Lectures will include:
- Monica Moore’s early morning yoga,
- Kevin Bees on peak performance and achieving goals
- Fitness techniques
- Paleo Cooking demonstration, and
- The role & impact of Agriculture and Farming
Numbers are strictly limited, so secure your place today
What Made the Paleo Weekend Australia So Special?
The first ever Paleo Weekend in Australia was more than just a two-day event – it was the start of something much bigger. Hosted on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour, the event brought together Paleo enthusiasts, practitioners, and curious newcomers for a truly immersive experience into ancestral health, real food, and natural movement.
Unlike typical health expos, the Paleo Weekend focused on depth over hype. With science-backed talks, practical demonstrations, nourishing meals, and a strong sense of community, it set a new standard for what a real food and wellness event could look like in Australia.
The Lead-Up to Paleo Weekend: Anticipation and Momentum
In the weeks leading up to the weekend, interest in the event exploded. With a growing Paleo community across Australia and New Zealand, it was clear that people were ready for something more than just online resources. They wanted to connect in person, ask questions face-to-face, and spend time with others who ‘got it’ when it came to bone broth, barefoot movement, and ditching seed oils.
The release of additional ticket types – offering more flexible access to either Saturday or Sunday sessions – was a game-changer. For many people, this made the event more accessible and gave them a chance to attend even if they couldn’t commit to the full weekend or overnight stays.
A Closer Look at the Saturday Line-Up
Saturday's programme was stacked with leading names in the Paleo and ancestral health world. Attendees enjoyed a full day of high-impact talks and hands-on sessions including:
- Jamie Scott – Offering insights into nutrition and performance from an evolutionary perspective
- Dr Anastasia Boulais – Sharing her clinical knowledge of Paleo as applied in healthcare
- Julianna Taylor – Exploring functional fitness, especially for women
- Dr Ron Ehrlich – Talking about oral health, stress, and systemic wellbeing through a holistic lens
- Max DeLacy – Leading a barefoot running session, teaching natural gait and movement restoration
Saturday also included movement techniques, mobility drills, and opportunities for Q&A with the presenters – all designed to equip attendees with tools to implement Paleo living beyond the weekend itself.
Sunday’s Programme: From Cooking to Mindset
Sunday continued the momentum, focusing on integration and sustainability of the Paleo lifestyle. Highlights included:
- Monica Moore’s early morning yoga session – Setting the tone with mindful movement
- Kevin Bees – A compelling talk on mindset, goal setting, and how to stay motivated for long-term health success
- Fitness workshops – Emphasising functional strength, mobility, and play-based exercise
- Paleo cooking demonstrations – Showing just how delicious and practical Paleo meals can be
- Agriculture & sustainability discussions – Offering important context on farming, food production, and ethical sourcing
Sunday was designed to tie together the foundational principles of Paleo – food, movement, rest, and community – and show how they work in real life. By the end of the weekend, most attendees had a game plan for applying these concepts in their own kitchens and communities.
Cockatoo Island: The Perfect Setting
The choice of Cockatoo Island was no accident. Set in the middle of Sydney Harbour, this UNESCO World Heritage site offered a unique backdrop – part history, part nature escape. The island’s rugged, industrial charm gave attendees the chance to step out of modern life and into something more primal. The views, fresh air, and sense of separation from the city helped set the tone for two days of reconnection, education, and reflection.
Some participants chose to stay overnight in tents or heritage-listed accommodation, adding a further immersive layer to the experience. Eating Paleo meals under the stars, sharing stories over kombucha, and waking up to the sounds of nature created a truly memorable weekend.
The Paleo Weekend Philosophy
At its core, the Paleo Weekend wasn’t just about food or fitness. It was about rediscovering a way of living that aligns with our biology – something modern life so often pulls us away from. The event championed:
- Real food – Seasonal, local, ethical, and nutrient-dense
- Natural movement – Playful, varied, and functional exercise
- Sleep, sun, and stress reduction – The often-forgotten foundations of good health
- Community and connection – Because health is about more than just the individual
These pillars were woven into every session, meal, and activity – creating a holistic, practical, and truly supportive environment.
Who Came to the Paleo Weekend?
One of the most exciting parts of the event was the diversity of attendees. People came from all across Australia (and even New Zealand) to take part. There were:
- Health practitioners wanting a deeper understanding of Paleo principles
- Fitness professionals exploring natural movement techniques
- Busy parents looking for real food strategies for their families
- Beginners curious about ancestral living
- Long-time Paleo eaters hungry for inspiration and community
Everyone brought something different to the weekend – questions, experiences, ideas – and everyone left feeling enriched, empowered, and connected.
Will There Be Another Paleo Weekend?
If you’re reading this post and wondering if the next Paleo Weekend in Australia is happening soon – you’re not alone. The enthusiasm and feedback from the original event have made it clear that there’s demand for more.
Plans for a future weekend are in the works, though dates have not yet been finalised. It’s likely we’ll return with an updated format, new speakers, and fresh locations – possibly rotating across the country to bring the event to more communities. Locations under consideration include the Central Coast, Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges, and Byron Bay.
Want to be the first to know? Be sure to sign up to the newsletter and you’ll receive advance notice as soon as future dates are confirmed.
What Past Attendees Are Saying
Here’s just a snippet of the feedback from those who attended the original Paleo Weekend:
“The best event I’ve ever attended – so much real value. I came home energised and ready to take charge of my health.” – Sarah, Brisbane
“Absolutely loved the cooking demos! I’ve already made the liver pate twice!” – James, Melbourne
“Meeting other Paleo people in real life made such a difference. I don’t feel like a weirdo anymore!” – Kristy, Sydney
Can’t Wait? Host a Local Meetup
If you missed the last Paleo Weekend and don’t want to wait for the next one, why not bring the community to you? Organising a local Paleo Meetup is a great way to connect with others, share ideas, and stay motivated. Whether it’s a picnic, walk, or potluck dinner, you’ll be surprised how many people in your area are also on the same journey.
If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to contact me – I’d love to help you get something off the ground in your area.
Final Thoughts on Paleo Weekend Australia
The Paleo Weekend wasn’t just an event – it was the beginning of something bigger. It proved that people are hungry (literally and figuratively) for deeper health, better food, and a return to community. From lectures to movement sessions to shared meals, it was a celebration of everything the Paleo lifestyle represents.
Were you there? I’d love to hear your memories in the comments below. And if you’re keen to attend the next one, make sure you're on the newsletter list – because trust me, the next Paleo Weekend is going to be even better.
Best Australian Blogs 2012 Competition
I'm very excited to be a nominee in the Best Australian Blogs 2012 competition! I seem to be the only Paleo/ Primal blog in the competition, so it would be great to get into the final, so more people find out what this Paleo thing is all about!
If you feel inclined to vote, I'm on the fifth page as “The Paleo Network” and I'd love your support!
Why Blogging Still Matters in the Paleo World
Since starting this site, I've been continually amazed by the Paleo community – not just how welcoming and supportive it is, but how engaged, curious, and passionate people are about living well. Blogging might feel a bit retro these days, but it continues to be one of the most powerful tools we have to share ideas, connect with others, and question the mainstream.
Being nominated in the Best Australian Blogs competition back in 2012 was an exciting milestone for me, not just because of the exposure it offered, but because it was an early sign that the Paleo movement was gaining traction here in Australia. At the time, Paleo was still widely misunderstood – and definitely seen as fringe by most health professionals and media outlets.
But this blog – and the many others like it – helped change that.
The Rise of Paleo in Australia
In the early 2010s, Paleo was slowly making its way into the Australian conversation. People were beginning to question food pyramid guidelines, investigate the role of sugar and grains in inflammation, and think more critically about modern processed foods. It was an exciting time – and also a confusing one.
There weren’t that many reliable Australian-based Paleo resources. Much of the information came from the US, which, while useful, didn’t always translate well to our local food options, brands, or health systems. That’s why being part of a growing Australian-based Paleo blogosphere felt so important. It was about creating a resource grounded in our landscape, our lifestyle, and our realities – whether that meant understanding Medicare rebates for functional medicine, or knowing which supermarket brands of tinned coconut milk didn't contain thickeners or gums.
Blogging vs Social Media: Why Long-Form Still Wins
With the rise of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, it’s easy to assume blogging might have had its day. But long-form content still serves a critical purpose – especially in the Paleo and health space. Social media is brilliant for inspiration, short hacks, or beautiful food photos – but it’s not where you go for in-depth recipes, scientific explanations, or nuanced comparisons of food quality and sourcing.
Blog posts allow space to:
- Break down complicated topics like the differences between grain-fed and grass-fed beef
- Share personal health journeys or Whole30 recaps
- Review Paleo products in detail
- Explore deeper issues like environmental sustainability, ethical meat sourcing, or food labelling laws in Australia
Google also continues to favour long, in-depth content when it comes to SEO – meaning blog posts often rank better and longer than fast-moving social media content. That’s another reason competitions like the Best Australian Blogs are valuable – they shine a spotlight on this kind of work and remind readers of the depth that long-form writing can offer.
How Blogging Helped Grow the Paleo Network
Since launching this site, I’ve received hundreds (if not thousands) of emails and comments from people who’ve found a recipe that helped them stay on track, a piece of advice that made the transition to Paleo easier, or simply a sense of relief that they weren’t alone in feeling overwhelmed by nutrition dogma.
That kind of connection is what blogging does best.
I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with so many amazing people in the Paleo, Primal, and real food world – from local butchers and farmers to nutritionists, CrossFit coaches, and passionate home cooks. Being nominated for a blog award was a nudge to keep going – and to keep creating helpful, inspiring content that’s grounded in real Australian life.
The Challenges of Running a Health Blog
Of course, it's not always easy. Writing consistently while juggling life, work, and everything in between can be a challenge. Algorithms change, website updates break things, and sometimes it feels like you’re writing into the void. But then someone leaves a comment saying the beef and kale stir-fry helped them get through a tough week, or that your explanation of seed oils helped them understand what was upsetting their digestion – and it makes it all worthwhile.
There’s also the responsibility of staying up-to-date with research, avoiding fear-mongering, and presenting a balanced, evidence-informed view. Paleo has grown and evolved over the years – and so have my views. That’s why I’m passionate about continual learning and updating old posts where needed.
How You Can Support Paleo Bloggers
Blogging might seem like a solo endeavour, but readers play a huge role in making it worthwhile. If you enjoy the content you read – whether it’s here or on any other site – there are a few ways you can help support it:
- Leave a comment – It helps with SEO, but more importantly, it shows the writer someone’s listening
- Share a post on Facebook, Pinterest, or with a friend – Word of mouth is still the most powerful marketing there is
- Subscribe to newsletters – It’s the best way to stay connected and see the newest posts
- Support affiliate links or product recommendations – If they’re products you’d buy anyway, it’s a no-cost way to support the blog
- Vote in blog competitions – Like the Best Australian Blogs comp – these votes help Paleo blogs gain mainstream visibility
Looking Forward: The Future of This Blog
Although this post is a flashback to 2012, the core mission of this blog hasn’t changed: to make it easier for Australians to embrace a Paleo lifestyle in a realistic, accessible, and inspiring way.
In the years since, I’ve written hundreds of posts, developed multiple recipe books, shared my Whole30 experiences, and explored everything from hormone health to barefoot running. And there’s so much more to come.
Whether you’re here for meal inspiration, troubleshooting your digestion, navigating kids lunchboxes, or just curious about ancestral living – thank you for being here. Your support is what makes this blog continue to thrive.
Final Thoughts
Being part of the Best Australian Blogs competition was never about the trophy or the votes – it was about standing up for something that matters. A reminder that food can heal. That community counts. And that every blog post, no matter how small, can be part of a much bigger movement.
If you’re new to Paleo, welcome – there are hundreds of articles here to get you started. If you’ve been reading for a while, thank you – it means the world.
And if you're ever wondering if one person can make a difference? You just did.