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Paleo Barbeque

Yesterday was the Sydney Paleo meetup group’s Paleo Barbeque. We met at beautiful Tamarama beach, where there are a couple of public barbecues, which were in hot demand yesterday! The weather couldn't have been more perfect for the barbecue, with sunshine and beautiful blue skies!

I spent yesterday morning making a few dishes from the new “Make it Paleo” cookbook, to take along to the barbecue with me.

I made the guacamole to go with some raw vegetables I cut up.

I made the barbecue sauce, which went beautifully with the organic grass fed streak I took along. This had a bit of a kick to it with the mustard and paprika and proved very popular. I’ll definitely be making this one again over the summer.

I was really excited to try the Fennel & Orange salad. The combination of the anise flavour of the fennel and the peppery flavour of the radishes made for an unusual, but very enjoyable salad.

I grated up some carrot, which I mixed with shredded coconut (I love the combination)

Finally, I roasted some seasonal vegetables which were colourful and delicious!

It was great to see such a good turn out to the barbecue – Paleo in Sydney seems to be well and truly gaining momentum. Despite a few people attending for the first time, we were an easy group to spot; as the only party at the beach without bread, crisps and junk food!

Why Paleo Picnics Work So Well

There’s something uniquely enjoyable about bringing a Paleo spread to a picnic or barbecue. Without the need for heavily processed condiments, sugary drinks, or plastic-packaged snacks, the entire event feels more intentional and connected to nature. Sharing fresh, colourful food that everyone has contributed to creates a communal experience that feels very aligned with the core values of the Paleo lifestyle — community, simplicity and nourishment.

Whether you’re planning your next outdoor feast or hosting a smaller backyard lunch, the Paleo approach makes menu planning surprisingly easy. Seasonal vegetables, grass-fed meats, and simple homemade sauces all lend themselves beautifully to this setting.

Creative Paleo-Friendly Barbecue Ideas

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next Paleo-friendly picnic or barbecue, consider adding one or two of these ideas to the mix:

Sweet potato skewers: Roast cubes of sweet potato with herbs and stack them onto skewers with capsicum and red onion for a colourful and hearty addition.
Avocado and cucumber salad: Toss avocado chunks with thinly sliced cucumber, lemon juice, and a touch of dill. Refreshing and full of healthy fats.
Lamb koftas: Made with minced lamb, herbs, garlic and cumin, these are easy to prepare ahead of time and cook quickly on the barbecue.
Paleo dips platter: Include olive tapenade, beetroot dip, and cauliflower hummus served with raw veggie sticks for a snack everyone can enjoy.

Staying Cool and Hydrated Without Sugary Drinks

Soft drinks and bottled juices are often the default for hot summer gatherings, but Paleo-friendly drinks can be just as satisfying — and far better for you. At our Tamarama event, several people brought homemade options including:

Coconut water served in glass bottles with slices of lime
Chilled herbal teas like hibiscus and rooibos, lightly sweetened with raw honey
Infused water with berries, mint and cucumber

These drinks not only kept everyone hydrated in the sun, but also added vibrant colour to the picnic table. Investing in a few good-quality glass drink dispensers or reusable insulated bottles can make a huge difference to your Paleo barbecue setup.

Managing Cross-Contamination and Non-Paleo Foods

One topic that came up during the meet-up was how to handle food safety when other groups at the park might be cooking breaded sausages or marinated meats full of additives. A few attendees shared useful tips:

Bring a spare grill plate or foil tray to create a clean surface on public barbecues.
Use bamboo skewers to keep Paleo food separate and identifiable.
Label your dishes clearly if it’s a shared event — this helps avoid confusion and lets others explore your food with interest.

It’s encouraging to see how many people at these gatherings are curious about the Paleo approach, and some even commented that our food looked “fresher” and more appealing than the typical Aussie beach barbecue fare.

What to Pack for a Paleo Beach Barbecue

To make your next event seamless, here’s a quick checklist of Paleo-friendly essentials to bring along:

Reusable plates, cups and cutlery
A cooler bag with ice bricks for fresh produce and meats
Plenty of napkins or tea towels
A rubbish bag for cleanup
A sharp knife and chopping board (you’d be surprised how often these are forgotten!)
Sun protection: hats, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen

Optional extras include a Bluetooth speaker for music, a small folding table, or even a picnic rug with a waterproof base. Being well-prepared helps you enjoy the day without stress and focus on what matters — the food and the people.

The Social Side of Paleo

One of the best things about these gatherings is the community feel. Everyone comes with different motivations — some are long-time Paleo veterans, while others are simply exploring a more whole-food approach to eating. The shared values around wellness, movement and mindful living seem to create a bond that transcends age, background and experience.

A few of us even swapped recipes and discussed upcoming events, like bushwalks, cooking workshops and urban foraging sessions. If you're looking to connect with like-minded people in Sydney (or wherever you're based), joining a local Paleo meetup group is a great way to stay motivated and make genuine friendships.

Looking Ahead to the Next Meetup

With summer just getting started, there’s plenty more to look forward to. Plans are already in motion for a picnic at Centennial Park next month, with a possible barefoot frisbee session on the cards. If you haven’t joined us before, now’s the perfect time.

The great thing about these events is their relaxed, bring-a-plate style. No pressure to impress — just good, real food and a supportive community. You’ll likely walk away with new recipes, a few new friends, and a full belly.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to stick to Paleo when the meals are shared, social and seasonal. The Tamarama beach barbecue was a perfect reminder that this lifestyle isn’t about restriction — it’s about choosing vibrant food that supports our wellbeing and bringing people together over something we all enjoy.

If you haven’t hosted or joined a Paleo barbecue yet, why not take the initiative and organise one in your local area? With a little planning and a lot of delicious food, it might just become your new favourite summer tradition.

I hope we’ll be able to have a few more outdoor Paleo meet-ups this summer – it seems so much more Primal!

Make It Paleo

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I was very excited to receive a copy of “Make it Paleo” yesterday. I met Bill & Hayley at the AHS and they really were just as lovely as they seem from their blog. I've used quite a few of their recipes, so have been immensely looking forward to receiving the book. I took the book down to the park this morning to have a read through, whilst topping up my Vitamin D levels in the sunshine.

I hadn't realised how big the book was going to be! It's the size of my old Chemistry textbook – but much more enjoyable to read. As with the Primal Palate site, the book is full of beautiful photos and well over two hundred recipes. You could cook something different everyday for months on end! There's a great introduction about Bill & Hayley and lots of information about Paleo; which ingredients are good to use, different cuts of meat, useful kitchen equipment and cooking tips. I think these sections will make the book a great Christmas present for friends who have expressed an interest in Paleo, but may be a bit hesitant about diving in.

Initially, I was a bit confused at first as to why the book had so many recipes for entrées – then I remembered; that is the American word for main course!

Tomorrow is the first beach Barbecue of the Sydney Paleo meet-up group, so I've decided to make up a few things from the book to take along with me. What better testers than more Paleo people? There are lots of dips and sauces that look really good in the book, so I'm going to make up a few to dip vegetables in, and to go with the meat. I'm also going to try the Fennel & Orange salad, which I hope will be as good as it looks, I'm very curious to try that one. I'll probably make up a few other side dishes, and possibly something from the treats/ cheat section too! I bought some beautiful organic grass fed steak to put on the barbecue, so it should be a good feast.

Most of the ingredients in the book are very abundant here in Australia. I did have to visit four shops to find the Fennel, despite it usually being easy to find. I also had lots of trouble locating Chipotle, which I eventually found out is in fact American for coriander leaves (at least, I hope it is, as that is what I'll be using!) There are a couple of other ingredients I've noticed in the recipes, that might be more challenging to find in Australia, such as Jicama (which appears to be a root vegetable) and spaghetti squash; but I'm sure these can be substituted – or perhaps if you've seen them over here, you can let me know where, in the comments below?

I usually try to make something different for dinner every evening, so it's great to have a new collection of recipes to try. I'm especially looking forward to trying the Chicken & Vegetable “lo mein”, as I rarely eat Chinese food anymore (I find it usually has very un-Paleo ingredients). I very rarely cook seafood at home too, so I will take the opportunity to cook a few dishes from the seafood section. Whilst it's not strict Paleo, it's great to have a chapter on cheats and treats! The natural, grain free ingredients are a million miles away from their conventional purchased and home-made equivalents – a far better alternative for birthdays and the odd special occasion.

The recipes look straight forward and well explained. I've chosen my dishes, gathered the ingredients – but not yet tested any of the recipes. So, I need to get cooking for the Paleo barbecue tomorrow… I'll post a write up and photos of the end results! Fingers crossed for sunshine!

Make it Paleo is released next week – If you only have room for one Paleo cookbook, I don't think you'd go wrong with this one. Amazon UK currently has free shipping to Australia with orders over £25 – a great deal for a book this big.

Why ‘Make It Paleo' Is a Must-Have Cookbook for Australians

If you're following the Paleo diet in Australia, Make It Paleo stands out as one of the most comprehensive and inspiring cookbooks available. With a beautiful layout, full-page photography, and over 200 recipes, it caters to everyone – from complete beginners to seasoned Paleo foodies looking to refresh their weekly meal rotations. What makes this cookbook so relevant for Australians is how easily most ingredients can be sourced locally, despite its American origin.

Everyday Cooking with Make It Paleo

One of the strengths of this cookbook is its approachability. You won’t find complicated techniques or fancy equipment needed to prepare the meals. The recipes are simple, unpretentious, and deeply rooted in whole, unprocessed foods. Whether you're meal prepping for the week, cooking dinner for the family, or planning a backyard barbecue with friends, there’s something in this book for every occasion.

Australian Ingredient Swaps and Shopping Tips

While most ingredients translate easily into the Australian pantry, a few American-specific items may need substitutions. For example, if you can’t find spaghetti squash, try spiralised zucchini or roasted pumpkin as a low-carb substitute. Chipotle chillies might be tricky, but smoked paprika combined with chilli flakes makes a good stand-in. Jicama, while rare here, can be swapped for crisp apple or even cucumber in salads for that same crunch.

Top Recipes to Try First

Fennel & Orange Salad – A refreshing summer dish perfect for Aussie barbecues.
Chicken & Vegetable “Lo Mein” – A brilliant way to enjoy a Chinese-style dish minus the MSG and soy sauce.
Beef Stroganoff – Comfort food at its finest, using clean Paleo ingredients for a creamy, satisfying dish.
Paleo Brownies – Found in the treats section, these are perfect for birthdays or special occasions when you want a grain-free indulgence.

Meal Prepping with the Paleo Diet

Make It Paleo also lends itself well to batch cooking and weekly meal prep. With easy-to-follow instructions and familiar ingredients, you can easily prepare several meals in one cooking session. Australians with busy schedules will appreciate how adaptable many of the recipes are – portions can be doubled, ingredients swapped, and leftovers stored for quick lunches or dinners.

Outdoor Eating and Entertaining, Paleo-Style

Given our outdoor lifestyle and love for beachside cookouts, the grilling section of the book is especially appealing. Recipes like citrus-marinated chicken skewers and grilled portobello caps with garlic ghee are ideal for warm weekends or holiday entertaining. With Paleo dips, marinades, and side salads included, it’s easy to pull together a full spread that even non-Paleo guests will enjoy.

Paleo Cooking for Families

If you're trying to transition your whole household to a healthier lifestyle, this book is a valuable ally. The recipes are familiar enough for fussy eaters, yet nutritious and nourishing for adults. There are plenty of one-pot meals, slow-cooker ideas, and crowd-pleasers to help ease family members into a grain-free, dairy-free way of eating – without making separate meals for each person.

Supporting Your Local Producers

The Paleo philosophy encourages sourcing fresh, local produce – and this aligns perfectly with Australia’s thriving farmers markets and grass-fed meat suppliers. Whether you're shopping at Harris Farm, a local butcher, or your neighbourhood organic co-op, many of the ingredients listed in Make It Paleo are readily available and often better quality than what's accessible in the US. Use this book to support your local economy while fuelling your health journey.

Gift Ideas for Paleo Beginners

If you have friends or family curious about Paleo but unsure where to start, Make It Paleo makes a thoughtful gift. The introductory sections explain the basics clearly and offer helpful kitchen setup advice. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t intimidate the reader – on the contrary, it invites you into the Paleo lifestyle gently, one recipe at a time.

Final Word

From my first flick through Make It Paleo in the sunshine to cooking its recipes for the Sydney Paleo barbecue, this book continues to be a go-to staple in my kitchen. It delivers on flavour, simplicity, and practicality, and remains one of the most accessible Paleo cookbooks for Australians. If you’re looking to expand your Paleo repertoire with dishes that truly work down under, this is the book to own.

Unhealthy Health Food?

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I'm so disappointed with Iku. When finding out how I eat, a few friends have suggested Iku, which is a whole food, “healthy” outlet, with a few locations around Sydney.

I'm not disappointed with options like McDonalds, as I doubt anyone goes there to fulfil their aim of having a healthy, wholesome nutritious lunch. Iku however shares so many of my nutrition beliefs, yet tackles them with pretty much the polar opposite nutritional approach.

Iku strive on providing organic food, and local where possible. I completely agree with this approach and can’t think of any other food outlet that goes this far. This ensures produce that should be free from pesticides, fresher and being local, far more sustainable. Tick!

They also try to keep foods as close to their natural state as possible, with minimal processing. This is very in line with the Paleo approach.

Their foods are also all dairy free, additive free, preservative free and free from genetic modification – more Paleo approval for getting this right. So far, so good.

But, then it all starts to go wrong. They strongly believe in the nutritional prowess of grains and legumes, believing that they help to fight disease. This is completely at odds with Paleo thinking, where legumes and grains have been shown to increase inflammation and reduce gut health. Their ingredients “slow blood sugar responses”. Whilst Paleo, without grains, will take blood sugar responses out of the equation – surely this is far healthier. Their menu is also designed to “keep cholesterol levels in check”, which is a clear reference to the outdate lipid hypothesis, to which Paleo does not subscribe.

It then gets even less Paleo. All of their food is free of any animal product. I can’t find any explanation on their site as to why they (presumably) perceive this to be the healthiest way to live.

Their tagline is “Feel great, have huge amounts of energy and a strong immune system”. I'm not sure how I could possibly feel good consuming grains and legumes – and no meat. I know it certainly wouldn't give me much energy. I currently have so much energy on my (fairly strict) Paleo diet. As for having a strong immune system, this also puzzles me with all of those lectins, phytates & proteins like gluten in the grains and legumes.

I’d love to see a national chain of food outlets that would combine the local, whole, organic philosophy, with great quality meat – and not a grain or legume in sight! Perhaps I’ll have to open my own!

Do you have well meaning “healthy” food outlets where you live? That actually aren't what you would consider healthy?

My Current Fitness Mission

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In addition to walking & running, I have two or three sessions a week of high intensity interval training style workouts, which I love. I’ve been doing this for over a year now and have made significant progress. The more progress I make however, the more my fitness ambitions grow.

Originally I wanted to be able to do “proper” man push ups. I can finally do these now, though they aren't pretty. Yet.

My biggest fitness ambition is to be able to do proper, unassisted chin-ups. I’d be thrilled to be able to do one, but ten would be incredible. I’ve been using an assisted chin up machine at the gym to help me achieve this. It has a counter weight, which you can gradually reduce – until the day arrives where no counter weight is required. The counter weights are gradually reducing – and my other strength routines are no doubt helping towards my aim.

My aim is to be able to do a few proper chin-ups by April – at PrimalCon 2012. That gives me six months to get stronger. I will conquer them!

Building Strength the Paleo Way

One of the most exciting aspects of following a Paleo lifestyle is the focus on functional strength. It’s not just about aesthetics or the number on the scale — it's about being capable, energised, and confident in your body’s abilities. The commitment to doing unassisted chin-ups is a perfect example of this mindset. Chin-ups require full-body control, grip strength, and a strong mind-muscle connection — all of which can be cultivated through consistent training and proper recovery.

But how else can you improve your strength and support your fitness goals in alignment with Paleo principles?

Integrating Functional Movements Into Daily Life

The beauty of functional fitness is that it mirrors real-world movements — squatting, lifting, jumping, climbing. Whether you're carrying groceries, hiking with a heavy backpack, or simply climbing stairs, your training should prepare you for life outside the gym.

Try integrating these movements throughout the day:

Air squats while waiting for your tea to brew
Walking lunges during a phone call
Hanging from a bar to improve grip and shoulder health

These micro workouts not only contribute to your strength gains but also help break up long periods of sitting — a hidden saboteur of progress.

Nutrition to Support Strength Training

Strength improvements are not made in the gym alone. What you eat — and when — has a profound impact on muscle development and recovery. A Paleo-based approach offers a nutrient-dense way to support your training goals without artificial supplements.

Here are a few key guidelines:

Post-workout fuel: Focus on a mix of protein and carbohydrate — grilled chicken with roasted pumpkin is a perfect example.
Pre-training boost: A banana with almond butter or boiled eggs and sweet potato can fuel a tough session.
Daily protein: Include a source of protein at every meal — such as grass-fed beef, eggs, or wild-caught fish.

Don’t forget about micronutrients either. Magnesium (found in leafy greens and nuts), zinc (from red meat and seafood), and iron (particularly from liver and red meat) all support energy production and muscle repair.

Progression Beyond Chin-Ups

Once you’ve conquered your first unassisted chin-up — a major milestone — where can your training go from there?

Here are some ideas for taking your functional fitness to the next level:

Weighted chin-ups: Add resistance using a weight belt or backpack.
Climbing: Rock climbing or indoor bouldering are incredible ways to develop grip, coordination, and upper body strength.
Muscle-ups: A challenging gymnastic movement that builds explosive power and body control.

Keep setting new benchmarks. One of the most motivating aspects of a fitness journey is knowing that there’s always another goal to work toward — whether it’s five strict push-ups, a handstand, or a 100kg deadlift.

Mobility Matters

Strength without mobility can lead to injury or plateaus. Incorporating mobility drills and stretching into your weekly routine helps keep your joints healthy and your movement fluid. Focus on areas that take a lot of strain during strength training, such as:

Shoulders and scapulae (especially important for pull-ups and chin-ups)
Hips and glutes (critical for squatting and lunging movements)
Wrists and forearms (often neglected, yet essential for gripping bars)

Consider adding a short mobility routine after each training session or starting the day with a few dynamic stretches to wake up the body.

The Role of Sleep in Muscle Growth

Sleep is often overlooked, but it plays a huge role in strength gains and performance. While you sleep, your body repairs the micro-tears caused by training and regulates key hormones like testosterone and growth hormone.

To support your training:

Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night
Limit screens for at least an hour before bed
Sleep in a cool, dark room and stick to a consistent routine

If you’re training hard but not seeing results, poor sleep might be the missing piece of the puzzle.

Staying Motivated When Progress Slows

Every fitness journey has ups and downs. When progress stalls — as it inevitably does — it’s important to shift your focus from outcome to process. Celebrate consistency, not just milestones. Track improvements in form, posture, and confidence as much as reps and weights.

You can also try:

Training with a friend for accountability
Filming your workouts to observe progress
Journaling your wins each week — even small ones

Remind yourself of why you started and how far you've already come. That mindset shift can reignite motivation and keep you moving forward.

Looking Ahead: What’s Your Next Goal?

Maybe it's your first full push-up, a handstand hold, or simply maintaining a consistent routine through the winter. Whatever your goal, set a realistic timeframe and break it into actionable steps. Chin-ups didn’t happen overnight, and neither will your next challenge — but with patience and persistence, it will happen.

Remember, strength is built one rep at a time, and the Paleo lifestyle offers a solid foundation to support your journey. Here’s to strong bodies, clear minds, and the joy of movement!

Can you do chin-ups? Do you have any fitness goals that you’re working towards? Share in the comments, below

My Daily Commute

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When Mark’s Daily Apple launched this video competition, it seemed like the perfect excuse to learn some new Mac skills, after buying my first ever MacBook Pro a couple of weeks ago. I’d been thinking about making a video of my commute into work, as the sun rises behind the Sydney Opera house, whilst I run/ walk over the Harbour Bridge. Perhaps with a cruise liner going under the bridge, at the exact same time I ran over it. Yeah, didn't happen like that. By the time I found my camera I completely missed the sunrise and the weather was terrible.

So, let me know what you think of my first ever video!

I think walking is one of the best forms of exercise there is. For me, walking to work is perfect. There are no excuses or putting it off – I have to get to work, I have to walk! My commute is 4.6km (2.9 miles), each way, so door to desk, via shower, it is well under an hour. I'm increasing the amount I wear my Vibrams each week too, I'm almost up to every day. If I were to get the bus, by the time I've waited around for a bus, it wouldn't be that much quicker – not to mention the unpleasantness of buses at rush hour. On the way into work it’s mainly downhill and I often run. I've got particularly bad at needing to overtake EVERYONE in front of me. I used to walk most of the way home, but since I've upped the fat in my diet, and decreased the carbs, I often have so much energy I feel compelled to run. Even after a long day at work. Crazy!

Another huge benefit I see in walking, particularly in the summer, is that I get a lot of sun exposure – but not the intense midday sun. Great for keeping my Vitamin D levels topped up. I also really enjoy the time to just be mindful and enjoy the fresh air and scenery, or listen to music and podcasts. I wouldn't swap this part of my day for anything!

Before I moved to Australia, my commute used to be 19 miles, in a car, on a motorway in the UK. It doesn't get much less Primal than that!

In addition to walking, I also do high intensity intensity training two or three times a week, with my fantastic PT, Karl. In the year since I started these sessions, my strength and fitness have improved significantly. I’m making slow, but steady progress in my push-up and chin-up ambitions! I will master the unassisted chin-up, I will!

What does your fitness look like? Do you walk to work too?

New paleo events in australia sydney melbourne brisbane new zealand-min

New Events In Australia

Check out the newly listed events down under….

Lectures on Sleep, Sugar, Vitamin D, Allergy Workshops, Health & Fitness Expo & the Australia Beef Expo in NSW, VIC, ACT & QLD

Have you heard of any Paleo related events in your area? WA, TAS, NT, SA and New Zealand seem to be a bit under represented? Let me know below and I'll add them to the list!

Why Attending Paleo Events Matters More Than Ever

With the explosion of interest in ancestral health, real food nutrition, and sustainable living, Paleo-focused events are starting to pop up all over Australia and New Zealand. And while online communities, podcasts, and blogs are an incredible way to learn and stay inspired, there’s something uniquely powerful about stepping into a room filled with people who share your passion for wellness.

Whether it's a hands-on workshop about fermenting vegetables, a lecture series on the role of sleep in hormone regulation, or an expo featuring grass-fed beef producers — these in-person events offer something the internet simply can't replicate: connection, community, and practical, real-time learning.

What Types of Paleo Events Are Popping Up?

If you’re just getting started with Paleo or are looking to level up your lifestyle, here are the types of events you’ll want to keep an eye on:

🥩 Local Food Festivals & Farmers Markets

These are often where you’ll find ethical meat producers, regenerative farmers, and artisanal food makers who align with the values of the Paleo lifestyle. It’s a brilliant opportunity to speak directly with the people who raise your meat or grow your veg – and you’ll often find specialty products like bone broth, tallow, and organ meats not typically available in supermarkets.

🎓 Health & Nutrition Seminars

Talks on the microbiome, circadian biology, hormone balance, or functional approaches to health can give you a fresh perspective and help you navigate your own wellness journey. Speakers often include integrative GPs, naturopaths, or independent researchers.

💪 Movement & Fitness Workshops

Whether it’s barefoot running clinics, primal movement workshops, or functional fitness sessions – many Paleo-aligned events incorporate movement into the mix. These workshops often focus on mobility, natural range of motion, or bodyweight strength (instead of endless reps on gym machines).

🛌 Sleep, Stress & Recovery Seminars

The importance of sleep in ancestral health can't be overstated. You’ll often find events diving into practical tips for optimising circadian rhythm, melatonin production, and nervous system regulation – all essential for fat loss, focus, and longevity.

🧂 Cooking Demos & Meal Planning

Cooking real food from scratch is central to Paleo – but for many of us, it can feel overwhelming. That’s where cooking demonstrations, fermenting masterclasses, or batch-cooking meal prep events can provide loads of inspiration.

🐄 Agricultural & Livestock Expos

Surprisingly, these can be a goldmine of Paleo-friendly insight. You’ll meet regenerative farmers, discover local grass-fed and pastured meat suppliers, and learn more about ethical and sustainable food systems. Look out for events like the Australia Beef Expo, or smaller field days held regionally.

Upcoming Paleo-Relevant Events to Watch For

Here are some of the event categories and locations to keep your eye on:

NSW: Sydney, Newcastle, Byron Bay

Health expos often run at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney.
Byron Bay is a hotspot for wellness retreats with ancestral health themes.
Local Meetup groups in Newcastle and Sydney often organise Paleo potlucks or hiking groups.

VIC: Melbourne, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula

Melbourne’s thriving wellness scene means you’ll regularly find low-tox living expos, natural food markets, and primal fitness workshops.
The Mornington Peninsula often hosts holistic retreats, particularly around gut health and nervous system regulation.

QLD: Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast

Brisbane is home to several functional medicine practitioners who run regular seminars on food as medicine and hormone health.
The Sunshine Coast boasts multiple organic farming tours and surf-inspired primal retreats.
Look for expos at the Brisbane Convention Centre or Noosa Wellness Festival.

ACT: Canberra

As the home of government and policy, Canberra hosts some fantastic science-based nutrition talks and professional development days – occasionally open to the public.
Paleo-friendly health food stores often post in-person tasting sessions and talks.

How to Find Events Near You

If you’re not already in the loop, here are some tips for finding out what’s happening:

Set Google Alerts for keywords like “Paleo event Sydney” or “ancestral health Australia”.
Join local Facebook groups: Try searching for “Paleo Melbourne”, “Real Food Brisbane”, or “Primal Australia”.
Follow local producers on Instagram: Grass-fed meat suppliers, kombucha makers, and organic farms often post upcoming appearances or market days.
Check community boards at your local health food store, CrossFit gym, or farmers market.
Eventbrite and Meetup are both great platforms to search for niche, local wellness events.

Why These Events Are Crucial for the Paleo Movement

One of the criticisms Paleo often receives is that it’s an elite or restrictive diet. But in person, at these events, you see the diversity of people it benefits. From busy mums and overworked tradies to former vegans and naturopaths – the Paleo community is full of people who’ve taken health into their own hands.

Paleo events allow you to:

Connect with like-minded people who get it when you say you avoid seed oils or ferment your own kraut
Try new foods in a low-pressure, supportive environment
Hear experts clarify common misconceptions about saturated fat, insulin, cholesterol, or ancestral diets
Get hands-on experience preparing nourishing meals or trying new movement modalities
Ask questions in real time that you can’t always get answered in a blog comment thread

Let’s Build the List: Know an Event? Share It!

Right now, some regions are under-represented – particularly WA, SA, NT, TAS and New Zealand. If you know of a local event that would interest the Paleo crowd, I’d love to add it to the list. Whether it’s a seasonal market with great grass-fed meat, a surf retreat serving whole food meals, or a seminar by a nutritionist debunking modern food myths – if it supports ancestral health, it belongs here.

Email me, tag me on Instagram, or drop the details in the comments below. Let’s keep this list growing so we can all discover new opportunities to learn, connect, and thrive.

Final Thought

Living a Paleo lifestyle isn’t just about what’s on your plate – it’s also about who’s at your table. Surrounding yourself with others who value real food, movement, quality sleep, and stress reduction is one of the most powerful things you can do to stay on track.

So don’t wait for an event to find you – go looking for it. And when you find a great one, tell us all about it.

Let’s keep the Paleo community strong, curious, and connected – one event at a time.

When Paleo Meets Vegan

There's an interesting talk at the Sydney Opera House tomorrow, as part of the Festival of Dangerous Ideas. The talk is entitled “What We Are and What We Eat”, by Jonathan Safran Foer. Foer has written a book called “Eating Animals”, and it sounds like he has a strong vegan, anti-Paleo agenda.

From what I've read, it looks like he is very concerned about cheap, factory farmed animal produce, which is a viewpoint I completely agree with. However, whilst I tackle this by sourcing very good quality, grass fed, organic meat, with a minimal degree of separation between myself and the farmer – I wonder if Foer's approach is tofu and grains?

I'm always interested in hearing and understanding differing viewpoints about diets and food sustainability, so I'm quite tempted to go along.

Must remember to take some beef jerky with me, I think they only sell sweets & crisps at the Opera House…

Paleo vs Vegan: Are We Really So Different?

There’s nothing quite like the topic of food to stir up passionate debate – and few dietary camps are as seemingly opposed as Paleo and vegan. On the surface, it looks like a black-and-white issue: one embraces animal products, the other avoids them entirely. But scratch beneath the surface, and you might be surprised by how much common ground there really is.

The talk by Jonathan Safran Foer at the Sydney Opera House, part of the Festival of Dangerous Ideas, is a brilliant example of how important these conversations are. They force us to examine what we believe – and more importantly, why we believe it. When it comes to the ethics of eating animals, sustainability, and modern food systems, both the Paleo and vegan movements raise compelling arguments that are well worth hearing.

What Paleo and Vegan Diets Have in Common

At first glance, Paleo and vegan lifestyles seem worlds apart. One champions grass-fed steak; the other praises lentils and tofu. But look a little closer, and you’ll see that both approaches:

Reject processed, industrialised food
Advocate for whole, nutrient-dense ingredients
Emphasise seasonal, local, and sustainable sourcing
Are rooted in a desire for better health and ethical choices

In fact, many long-term Paleo eaters start their journey by cutting out processed food, seed oils, sugar, and factory-farmed meat – which aligns closely with a wholefood vegan’s commitment to clean eating. The difference often comes down to one core question: is it ethical and sustainable to eat animals?

The Ethical Dilemma: Animals, Agriculture, and Accountability

One of Foer’s major criticisms – and a view shared by many vegans – is the cruel and unsustainable nature of factory farming. And here’s the truth: they’re absolutely right. Industrial animal agriculture is an ethical and environmental disaster. Confined animals, antibiotics, monoculture feed crops, and long, inhumane supply chains are all in direct conflict with both ancestral health and environmental stewardship.

This is where thoughtful Paleo advocates differentiate themselves. We don’t support factory-farmed meat either. We actively seek out pasture-raised, grass-fed, ethically sourced animals – ideally from local producers where we know how the animals are treated and what they’re fed. In many cases, the farmer is as much a part of the community as the butcher, grocer, or gardener.

So while vegans reject all animal consumption on principle, many Paleo eaters reject industrial meat while embracing regenerative animal farming as part of a sustainable ecosystem.

What About the Environment?

Veganism is often hailed as the most environmentally sustainable way to eat – and in some respects, this is true. Industrial meat production contributes significantly to greenhouse gases, water consumption, and deforestation. But when you consider regenerative grazing models, the picture changes.

Properly managed grazing can improve soil health, support biodiversity, and even sequester carbon. Local, pasture-raised livestock are part of a natural cycle – fertilising the land, controlling weeds, and helping restore damaged ecosystems. In Australia, regenerative farmers are proving that meat production can be done responsibly and sustainably.

Meanwhile, many plant-based staples like soy, almond milk, or out-of-season avocados often require monoculture farming, significant water resources, or long-distance transportation. There’s no perfect system – and both sides must make trade-offs. But the key takeaway is this: how food is grown matters more than what category it falls into.

Is Tofu Paleo? (Spoiler: Not Really)

In posts like this, people often ask, “But what about tofu?” It’s a vegan staple – high in protein, easy to cook, and widely available. But from a Paleo perspective, soy is generally off the table. Here’s why:

Soy is often genetically modified and heavily sprayed with pesticides
It contains phytoestrogens, which may disrupt hormone balance
It’s a legume – and many Paleo eaters avoid legumes due to antinutrients like phytic acid

That said, it’s not about demonising foods – it’s about understanding how they affect the body. Traditional fermented soy products like miso or tempeh might be better tolerated by some, but they’re still not considered Paleo by strict standards.

Food as Identity

Diet is never just about nutrition – it’s tied up in culture, ethics, and identity. Whether you’re sitting at a vegan café in Newtown or tucking into lamb chops from your local farmers market, the food you choose says something about how you see the world.

What’s refreshing is when people – like the attendees at the Festival of Dangerous Ideas – are willing to listen to opposing views without judgement. These are the conversations that move us forward. They also remind us that we all care deeply about food – where it comes from, how it’s made, and how it impacts our bodies and the planet.

Can Paleo and Vegan Ever Coexist?

While it's unlikely we'll see a Paleo-Vegan fusion café anytime soon (though stranger things have happened in Sydney), there’s room for overlap. Here’s how:

Both can celebrate seasonal, organic produce from local farms
Both can support food sovereignty, farmers markets, and transparent labelling
Both can champion fermented foods, healthy fats (like avocado and olive oil), and sustainability
Both can benefit from understanding the ancestral roots of human nutrition

There’s even a term – “Pegan” – used to describe people who combine elements of both diets. While it’s not technically strict Paleo or vegan, it’s an interesting sign of how people are seeking middle ground between these philosophies.

So… Did I Attend the Talk?

Yes, I did bring my beef jerky. And yes, I found the talk thought-provoking, even if I didn’t agree with all of Foer’s conclusions. But that’s the point. Hearing someone else’s perspective – especially when it challenges your own – is what makes conversations around food so important. It forces us to think, re-evaluate, and sometimes even strengthen our own beliefs.

And who knows – maybe a vegan in the audience left thinking more critically about food miles, regenerative agriculture, or the health impacts of ultra-processed soy products. Or maybe someone Paleo-curious discovered they could go a little lighter on the meat and heavier on the veg, and still stay true to ancestral eating.

Final Thoughts on Paleo vs Vegan

At the end of the day, the best diet is one you can sustain – physically, ethically, and emotionally. Whether that includes animal products or not, we all benefit from eating real food, supporting responsible farming, and staying curious.

Food doesn’t have to be a battleground. It can be a bridge – between people, between philosophies, and between the modern world and our ancestral roots.

How do you navigate the Paleo vs vegan debate? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Do you avoid soy and grains? Have you found common ground with vegan friends or family? Let’s keep the conversation going.

7,497 Miles to PrimalCon

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One of the highlights of 2011 so far was the weekend I went to PrimalCon 2011 in California in April. I enjoyed it so much, that I booked my ticket for the 2012 event as soon as the tickets went on sale this morning.

Sunset at PrimalCon

I hadn't realised quite how far America was from Australia when I booked this year. I went at quite short notice and used my air miles, so didn't pay too much attention to minor details like flight times. I was trying to minimise time off work, so I left Australia on the Friday and flew back on the Sunday night. This was a big mistake! I now know very well that Los Angeles is a very long 14 hour 7,497 mile flight from Sydney. To make matters worse, as I used my air miles, I was assigned a very impressive route of Sydney to Brisbane, a night in Brisbane, a flight from Brisbane to Melbourne, then finally I got on my international flight at Melbourne!

It was all for the best however, as I met a wonderful new friend on the flight to LA, who was also attending PrimalCon (with just two people going from Australia, what were the chances of us being on the same flight?)

I'm planning to make PrimalCon 2012 into a much more sensible length America trip, especially as it falls the weekend after Easter.

I made some lifelong Primal friends in April, in fact, I spent a wonderful week in Texas with two of my PrimalCon friends, and met up with some others at the AHS in August. I'm really looking forward to catching up with them and making some more Primal friends.

Over the whole weekend, the food was incredible. So much was local Californian produce and it was great to have things like Kale and Turkey, which I find so difficult to find here in Australia (if you know of any good sources here, please let me know in the comments!)

One of my highlights from the weekend was the running workshop with Barefoot Ted. I learnt so much from him and my running style has changed forever. In fact, it was his workshop that inspired me to buy my Vibrams! I'm thrilled to see Barefoot Ted is back again for next year’s event – hopefully I can refine my technique further still.

Erwan Le Corre is a new presenter for the 2012 event. I really enjoyed his talk and demonstration on MovNat at the AHS this year, and to have the opportunity to have a small group workshop with the guy who does this is incredibly exciting!

I just received my latest Amazon book order of Exuberant Animal by Frank Forencich yesterday – so couldn't believe it when I read Frank Forencich is also a presenter at PrimalCon! I’d better get started on his book…

Hopefully we'll be able to get Mark Sisson over to Australia/ New Zealand in the near future, but in the meantime… anyone else coming to PrimalCon with me?

Barbecued Kangaroo with Strawberry Sauce & a Cube of Chips paleo diet recipe-min

Craft the Best Barbecued Kangaroo: with Strawberries & Jenga Chips

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Meetup paleo meet up groups events conference-min

Meeting Real, Local People – Who Lead a Paleo Lifestyle Too

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Last night was the fourth meet up of the Sydney Paleo group – and the third I’ve had the pleasure of attending. We met at a Korean Barbeque restaurant, tucked away down a side street, in the city centre. A few of us had met before and there were some new faces to meet. The food couldn’t have got much more Paleo. We had all different types of meat, which we barbequed ourselves.

I’m becoming more and more obsessed with all things Paleo as time goes by. I always want to talk about an amazing new blog I’ve found, or find out what others think about the latest research. But I am aware that a lot of my non Paleo friends aren’t as interested in this as I am! To be able to meet up with a group of people on the same wavelength is amazing.

We were able to jump straight into topics such as Jack Kruse’s Leptin theories, Nora Gedgaudas’s Australian Primal Body Primal mind conference, the AHS and how we handle social events with our non-Paleo friends. We discussed our favourite blogs and books, how we do Paleo and local Paleo friendly suppliers & restaurants.

As much as I benefit from & value my online Paleo friends and the online community, there is nothing like meeting Paleo people in real life.

Next month we’ll be meeting again, only this time for an outdoor meet up. A barbeque by the beach, frisbee, slack line & lots of paleo talk – I can’t wait!

If you don’t know any Paleo folk in real life, I suggest you join your local meetup group – or if there isn’t one – create it yourself!

Why In-Person Paleo Meetups Matter

Online forums, blogs, and social media are fantastic for discovering new Paleo recipes, delving into ancestral health theories, and asking questions in real time — but nothing compares to sitting down face-to-face with someone who truly gets it. Meeting up with others who also prioritise whole foods, movement, and an evolutionary approach to health adds an entirely different dimension to the journey. It's energising, validating, and often downright fun.

Whether you’re the only one in your workplace who brings bone broth for lunch or the only one skipping the bread at family dinners, connecting with like-minded people in real life can remind you that you’re not alone — and that this way of living is both practical and sustainable.

Shared Conversations and Tangents You Can’t Script

One of the joys of meeting fellow Paleo enthusiasts in person is the freedom to dive deep into topics that might feel too niche or intense in other social circles. You don’t have to explain why you avoid seed oils or what intermittent fasting is — you can jump straight into comparing organ meat recipes, dissecting the latest Paul Saladino video, or swapping tips for cooking with tallow.

It’s also a great chance to trade ideas on supplementation, local sourcing tips, home fermentation experiments, or favourite workouts. Many conversations spiral into spontaneous detours — like ancestral parenting philosophies, EMF concerns, or cold exposure routines — things that rarely get airtime in conventional social settings.

Discovering Local Paleo-Friendly Spots

One of the unexpected benefits of these meetups is learning about hidden gems in your area. At the Korean BBQ dinner, several people recommended butchers that stock grass-fed offal, small-scale farmers' markets, and even cafes willing to accommodate grain-free, dairy-free requests with a smile.

These local tips can be hard to find online, and they often make sticking to a Paleo lifestyle far easier — especially if you’re busy, cooking for a family, or just prefer variety. If you're new to an area or transitioning into Paleo eating, these meetups are an invaluable source of local knowledge.

Expanding Your Paleo Horizons

Even if you’ve been doing Paleo for years, there’s always something new to learn — whether it’s a new book, a podcast you’ve never heard, or a food prep tip that makes all the difference. Others in your group might follow similar principles but take inspiration from keto, carnivore, primal, AIP or Weston A. Price traditions. Seeing how others implement their version of ancestral health can offer fresh perspectives and ideas to experiment with.

You might meet someone who dry fasts, someone who eats raw liver, or someone who’s hacked their sleep using red light therapy and mouth taping. Even if you don’t adopt all these practices yourself, the exposure can spark curiosity and deepen your own understanding of what works best for you.

Socialising Without Compromise

One of the biggest hurdles when transitioning to Paleo is navigating social events. Most gatherings revolve around chips, alcohol, bread, sugary desserts, and awkward conversations about why you’re “not eating that.” Meetups with fellow Paleo enthusiasts remove all of that tension. You don’t have to justify your food choices or explain your dietary preferences — everyone’s on the same page.

This relaxed environment allows you to fully enjoy yourself, connect over shared values, and even get recipe inspiration from what others bring or order. Whether it’s a beach picnic, a potluck dinner, or a hike followed by a barbecue, it’s refreshing to be in a group where your “weird” food is normal.

Organising Your Own Paleo Meetup

If there’s no local Paleo meetup group near you, why not start one? You don’t need to be an expert or have a huge following — just a desire to connect. Start small: a casual dinner at a Paleo-friendly restaurant, a brunch with a few like-minded people, or a park meet-up with a bring-your-own picnic.

You can use websites like Meetup.com, Eventbrite, or even post in Facebook groups or Reddit threads specific to your city. Libraries, health food shops, and gyms may also let you display a flyer. Don’t be afraid to reach out — most people are just waiting for someone else to take the first step.

Ideas for Future Gatherings

Once your group is established, the possibilities are endless. Here are some event ideas that go beyond the dinner table:

Cook-along workshops: Fermenting, jerky-making, bone broth simmering or organ meat recipes
Outdoor movement meetups: Barefoot bushwalks, beach workouts, slacklining, or natural movement sessions
Documentary nights: Screening food or health documentaries followed by a discussion
Farm tours: Visiting a regenerative farm or organic produce supplier to learn where food really comes from
Guest speakers: Invite a local naturopath, primal fitness coach, or nutritionist to share insights

Strength in Community

There’s something powerful about finding your people — especially when your lifestyle choices go against the grain (pun intended). Whether you’re new to Paleo or have been living this way for years, community makes a difference. It helps you stay motivated, stay accountable, and stay inspired.

The Sydney Paleo group has shown me just how energising it can be to be surrounded by people who care about food quality, personal responsibility, and ancestral health. I can’t wait for next month’s outdoor gathering — and if you're reading this and haven’t found your tribe yet, maybe it’s time to start building one.