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What You Missed in the Big Paleo Giveaway (Now Closed)

This giveaway is now closed

I've just heard about a pretty awesome paleo giveaway that the guys at Bucks Books have organised… it's free to enter and the prizes are physical books and a premiere ticket to Paleo f(x) – and lots of other paleo goodies

Buck Books Paleo Giveaway Competition

This is what you'll win:

  • Paleo f(x) Premiere ticket
  • $200+ Amazon Gift Card
  • 10 Bestselling Cookbooks, physical copy
  • 3 Bestselling Paleo informational books, physical copy
  • Kasandrinos Olive Oil, Lip Balm and Soap
  • Kindle Paperwhite

Enter here

Good luck!

What Was in the $1000 Paleo Giveaway?

Although this giveaway is now closed, it’s worth taking a closer look at the types of prizes on offer — because they reflect some of the most popular and useful Paleo resources out there.

Organised by Buck Books, the Paleo competition included a Paleo f(x) premiere ticket, over $200 in Amazon gift cards, a stack of bestselling cookbooks and information guides, and even a Kindle Paperwhite. Physical goodies like Kasandrinos olive oil, lip balm, and soap rounded out the prize pack, making this one of the most generous Paleo giveaways we’ve seen.

If you’re new to the scene, Paleo f(x) is a huge annual event in the Paleo and ancestral health world — featuring cutting-edge speakers, workshops, and wellness products. Attending can be a game-changer if you’re passionate about nutrition, fitness, or holistic health.

To make sure you don’t miss out on future giveaways, competitions, and Paleo community events, make sure you’re subscribed to my newsletter and following Paleo brands on social media. Giveaways often pop up around book launches, events, or product partnerships — and you’ll want to be first in line.

Have you ever entered a Paleo giveaway? Or maybe you’ve won something cool? Share your experience in the comments below!

Why Paleo Giveaways Are Worth Watching

Even though this particular giveaway is closed, it’s a great reminder of the incredible value that Paleo competitions can offer. These aren’t just gimmicks — they’re curated collections of high-quality resources and tools that can genuinely support your health journey. Whether you’re just starting out or have been living paleo for years, giveaways like this often provide access to new products, books and insights that you might not otherwise come across.

Spotlight on Some of the Prizes

The prize list in this giveaway was especially impressive. Take the Kasandrinos olive oil, for example — a favourite in the paleo community thanks to its single-origin, organic production and high levels of polyphenols. It’s a staple in many real food kitchens and a key component of any healthy fat-based diet. The inclusion of their lip balm and soap also reflects the holistic nature of paleo living — it’s not just about food, but also about reducing exposure to chemicals and using natural, nourishing personal care products.

The Kindle Paperwhite was another clever inclusion, giving the winner an easy way to store and read their growing collection of paleo cookbooks and health guides. Physical books are great, but digital formats make it easier to carry your favourites with you — especially when you’re shopping or cooking on the go. And the Amazon gift card? Perfect for picking up pantry staples like almond flour, coconut oil or collagen peptides, or for expanding your paleo bookshelf.

What to Look for in Future Paleo Competitions

Not all giveaways are created equal. When you come across a paleo competition, it’s worth looking at who’s hosting it and what’s being offered. The best giveaways are run by reputable brands or community figures — like Buck Books — and feature products aligned with clean eating, natural living, and ancestral health values. Steer clear of anything that seems overly promotional or includes processed items that are only loosely connected to the paleo lifestyle.

It’s also worth checking if the giveaway is global or limited to specific countries. Some competitions are restricted to the US, while others — particularly those run by authors or bloggers — may be open internationally. Look at the entry requirements, too. Often, they’ll involve following a few social media accounts or joining a mailing list — simple actions that keep you connected to brands offering genuine value.

Why Brands Run Paleo Giveaways

Giveaways aren’t just fun for the community — they’re also a powerful way for paleo brands to grow their reach and reward their audience. Book authors might launch a giveaway around the release of a new title, encouraging fans to spread the word. Health product companies might offer prize packs to promote a seasonal range or celebrate a milestone. And bloggers or podcasters often collaborate with others in the space to run bundle giveaways that showcase their favourite tools and resources.

For you, the participant, that means giveaways are a great way to learn about emerging products and connect with others who share your interests. You might discover a new favourite cookbook, a more sustainable brand of body care products, or even a local paleo-friendly business.

Making the Most of Paleo Freebies and Promotions

If you’re serious about building a paleo lifestyle on a budget, giveaways and promotions can really help. Many paleo brands also offer free sample packs or discounted starter kits, especially when launching new products. Keep an eye on your favourite brands' email newsletters and social media channels, as they often announce deals and flash giveaways there first.

You might also want to explore bundled eBook promotions, where a group of authors offers dozens of paleo books together at a steep discount — sometimes less than the price of one paperback. These promotions often include exclusive bonuses or early access to new releases and can dramatically expand your knowledge base.

Upcoming Events to Watch

While Paleo f(x) is the big name in the ancestral health world, there are other smaller events — both online and in-person — that occasionally feature their own giveaways or partner with brands for exclusive attendee prizes. Online summits, challenges and virtual workshops often come with prize draws or bonus packs for participants. These are great opportunities to get inspired and access new tools at no cost.

Final Thoughts on Paleo Giveaways

Whether you’re in it to win it or just browsing for new resources, paleo giveaways are a brilliant way to engage with the broader community. You never know when you might score a new kitchen gadget, a favourite brand of olive oil, or a book that reshapes the way you think about food. Even if you don’t win, you’ll often walk away with valuable insights, new recipes to try, or brands worth following.

Make sure you’re following the right accounts and subscribe to newsletters from your favourite authors, food bloggers and paleo brands. These connections are where most giveaway opportunities will come from — and they’re usually full of helpful advice, recipes, and community stories too.

And if you’ve ever thought about running your own giveaway — maybe to celebrate a milestone, launch a product, or just give back — take inspiration from this one. Offer real value, keep it simple to enter, and share it with a community that will appreciate it. Because in the world of paleo, generosity and connection are just as important as good food.

Win a Free Copy of the IQS Kids Book!

It's giveaway time!

I'm going to be giving one reader a free copy of the new I Quit Sugar Kids Cookbook!

This book is exactly what you need if you're trying to get your children eating healthily but are struggling for ideas and inspiration. In the beautiful book you'll find:

  • 85+ fructose-free party recipes, breakfast ideas, lunchbox snacks and afternoon treats.
  • Handy conversion widgets, substitution charts plus a shopping list generator.
  • Safe sweeteners and how to use them.
  • Tips and tricks from experts and health-conscious parents.
  • Ideas to get the kids involved in cooking and growing their own food.

IQS Digital Kids Cookbook-min

How To Win?

To win a free copy of this ebook* all you have to do is leave a comment below or on the facebook post with your top paleo kids idea or tip. It could be a healthy snack idea, a school lunch tip, a paleo baby weaning idea, or perhaps a fun way you've found to get your children to eat more veggies.

So what's your top idea for paleo friendly children's ideas? Leave your comment below.

The winner will be selected at random from all comments left (both on this page and on the facebook page) by midnight 27th April and I'll announce the winner on the 28th April! Good luck – and keep the tips and ideas coming!

You can find out more about the I Quit Sugar Kids Cookbook here

Why Paleo for Kids Matters More Than Ever

When it comes to children’s nutrition, the focus is often on convenience. Pre-packaged snacks, quick-fix meals, and sugar-laden lunchbox fillers dominate supermarket shelves — but at what cost? More and more parents are noticing the effects that processed food and hidden sugars have on their children's behaviour, energy levels, and long-term health. A Paleo-inspired approach is one way to bring kids back to real, nourishing food that supports development and helps lay the foundation for a healthy relationship with eating.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that Paleo is restrictive — especially for kids. But when done right, it's actually the opposite. Removing refined sugars, gluten, and overly processed ingredients creates space for a wide range of colourful fruits, quality proteins, healthy fats, and naturally sweet treats. With a little creativity, Paleo meals can become the most vibrant, fun and engaging part of a child’s day.

Creative Paleo Ideas for Kids

Need some fresh inspiration for getting your kids excited about eating healthy? Here are a few popular ideas to spark your own creativity:

  • Rainbow Skewers: Thread colourful veggies and fruits (like cherry tomatoes, capsicum, cucumber, pineapple and melon) onto wooden skewers. They’re perfect for lunchboxes and make eating the rainbow fun and tactile.
  • DIY Snack Jars: Fill mini jars with homemade trail mix, coconut flakes, dried blueberries, or crunchy veggie chips. Great for on-the-go or after-school snacks.
  • Banana Pancakes: Mash one banana with two eggs and cook in coconut oil for a naturally sweet breakfast or lunchbox addition. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped strawberries for extra flavour.
  • Mini Egg Muffins: Whisk eggs with grated veggies and a pinch of sea salt, pour into a muffin tin and bake. These make a fantastic protein-rich lunchbox filler or after-school snack.

These options are not only nourishing, but they also put the fun back into food. Getting kids involved in the preparation makes them more likely to enjoy what they’re eating and helps build important life skills too.

Sweet Treats Without the Sugar Crash

One of the standout features of the I Quit Sugar Kids Cookbook is the variety of sweet recipes that use only safe sweeteners. This is a huge plus for any parent trying to manage their child’s sugar intake without eliminating treats altogether.

Ideas such as avocado chocolate mousse, coconut “ice cream” made from frozen banana, and bliss balls with dates and almond meal are just a few examples of how natural ingredients can create indulgent flavours. Unlike refined sugar, these wholefood-based desserts won’t lead to mid-afternoon meltdowns or sugar crashes, making them much better for children’s energy and focus throughout the day.

Get the Kids in the Kitchen

One of the easiest ways to foster healthy eating habits in children is to involve them in meal prep. Even young kids can help wash veggies, mix ingredients, and scoop muffin batter into trays. Older children can try reading recipes, chopping soft fruits, and experimenting with their own snack combinations. When kids feel ownership over what they’ve made, they’re far more likely to try new things — even those dreaded green veggies.

The cookbook even includes guidance for growing your own food — something that can turn even the most veggie-resistant child into a tomato-loving gardener. Watching a carrot grow from seed to plate is a magical way to connect children with where their food comes from.

Lunchbox Wins

Paleo lunchboxes can feel overwhelming at first, especially when trying to navigate school rules around allergies, storage, and variety. But with a little preparation, they can be both simple and exciting:

  • Protein bites: Mini meatballs or grilled chicken skewers are easy to prep ahead and taste great cold.
  • Vegetable sticks with guacamole or tahini dip: A classic combo that’s both crunchy and satisfying.
  • Fruit kebabs: Just like the rainbow skewers above, these offer a sweet, healthy way to finish lunch.
  • Leftover dinners: Cold slices of frittata, roasted root veggies, or even grain-free pizzas make amazing lunchbox additions.

Getting organised with a weekly lunchbox planner or batch-cooking snacks on the weekend can take a lot of stress out of weekday mornings. A little prep goes a long way.

Have You Entered Yet?

If you haven’t already, don’t forget to leave your best Paleo kids tip in the comments below or on our Facebook post. Whether it’s a recipe hack, a fun way to sneak in more veg, or a trick for navigating birthday parties — your idea could help another family, and you’ll go in the draw to win a copy of the fantastic I Quit Sugar Kids Cookbook.

This digital book is filled with more than 85 wholesome, kid-friendly recipes, plus expert tips, substitution charts, and tools to help you take the guesswork out of healthy cooking for your little ones. Whether you’re already well into your Paleo journey or just looking for ways to clean up your family’s eating habits, this guide offers practical, fun and truly delicious solutions.

Let’s make nourishing food exciting for the next generation — and have a bit of fun along the way!

*Please note that this is a digital book – I'll send the winner the file which can be read on any computer or ereader device

Win! I Quit Sugar Cookbook

Sarah Wilson's I Quit Sugar Cookbook is a beautiful ebook, to follow-up to I Quit Sugar Program. Fancy winning your own copy?

The I Quit Sugar Program is an eight week plan to give up sugar – with guidance and advice throughout the process. This is a great first step into Paleo, as initially giving up sugar can seem very daunting.

The follow up recipe book has over 100 recipes, most of which are Paleo. There are breakfast recipes, dinners, snacks, sauces, smoothies and lots of recipes to help a sweet tooth – but of course, without sugar!

Paleo Recipe Book

Sarah Wilson has generously given two of her ebooks to be won in this giveaway! So if you would like a new cookbook and some new recipe inspiration, enter now!

How To Enter:

  1. If you haven't already, sign up to my newsletter below
  2. Like the Paleo Network Facebook page
  3. Leave a comment below – make sure you include your email address in the comment form (won't be displayed publicly), so I can contact you if you win!

I'll pick two winners at random. Entry closes midnight AEST 14th October and winners will be contacted and announced shortly afterwards. Entry open to all regardless of country. One entry per person.

Why Quitting Sugar Aligns Perfectly with a Paleo Lifestyle

One of the biggest challenges people face when transitioning to a Paleo lifestyle is breaking their dependence on sugar. Whether it's hidden in sauces, disguised in “health” snacks, or baked into afternoon cravings, sugar has a way of infiltrating even the most mindful diets. That’s what makes Sarah Wilson’s I Quit Sugar series such a powerful tool — it targets one of the most addictive and damaging parts of the modern diet and offers practical, whole-food alternatives.

Going Paleo often starts with removing processed grains, legumes, and seed oils, but tackling sugar addiction can be the true game-changer. When sugar is eliminated, many people report clearer skin, better sleep, improved energy, and fewer mood swings — benefits that are also closely tied to the outcomes of a successful Paleo diet. Sarah’s cookbooks make that transition smoother and far more enjoyable, without relying on overly complex recipes or hard-to-find ingredients.

Favourite Recipes That Satisfy Without the Sugar

If you’re wondering what kind of meals you’ll find in the I Quit Sugar Cookbook, you’ll be pleased to discover that many of the recipes are comfort food classics with a nourishing twist. Think zucchini and haloumi fritters, grain-free muesli bars, and slow-cooked lamb shanks. The desserts are particularly impressive — with ingredients like coconut, cacao, almond meal, and cinnamon doing all the heavy lifting to create indulgent treats that don’t spike your blood sugar.

Sarah’s recipes are especially valuable for those who struggle with late-night cravings or afternoon energy dips. Instead of grabbing a biscuit or a sugary yoghurt, having a few prepped snacks from the cookbook in your fridge can be the difference between staying on track and spiralling into a sugar binge.

Smart Sweeteners and Natural Flavour Boosters

One of the things Sarah does well in her recipe development is choosing better sweetener alternatives. While strict Paleo avoids sweeteners entirely, the occasional use of natural options like stevia, monk fruit, or small amounts of rice malt syrup (which is fructose-free) can help people transition away from processed sugars without feeling deprived.

Her recipes also lean heavily on ingredients that enhance flavour without sugar, such as citrus zest, vanilla bean, cacao, cinnamon, and coconut. These not only make the food more enjoyable but also retrain your palate to appreciate more subtle, natural flavours. Over time, your cravings change, and overly sweet processed food begins to taste artificial and overpowering.

Meal Planning and Batch Cooking with I Quit Sugar

If you like to batch cook or meal prep, you’ll find this cookbook incredibly helpful. Many of the dinners and breakfasts can be cooked in large quantities and stored in the fridge or freezer. This makes it easier to avoid convenience foods during a busy week. Recipes like frittatas, grain-free granolas, and one-pot stews can be made on a Sunday and enjoyed over several days.

This approach saves time, reduces decision fatigue, and helps you stick to your Paleo or sugar-free intentions, even when life gets hectic. It’s especially beneficial for families or households trying to make healthier eating a sustainable lifestyle rather than a short-term experiment.

How Sugar Affects the Body (and Why You Should Avoid It)

It’s no secret that sugar is linked to a whole host of health issues — from obesity and insulin resistance to inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and hormone imbalance. Even for those who aren't trying to lose weight, cutting out sugar can improve mood stability, mental clarity, and skin health. The I Quit Sugar program addresses these issues with evidence-based advice and accessible meal plans, making it a great companion to a Paleo framework focused on healing from the inside out.

Sarah Wilson also explores how sugar feeds chronic inflammation, making it especially problematic for those with autoimmune conditions, thyroid issues, or digestive distress. By removing it from the diet, many people experience noticeable improvements in bloating, joint pain, and mental health — often within just a couple of weeks.

Making Sugar-Free Living a Family Affair

One of the challenges parents face is reducing their children’s sugar intake without making them feel excluded or punished. The good news is, many of the recipes in this cookbook are family-friendly and designed with kids in mind. From homemade ice blocks to savoury muffins and smoothie bowls, the recipes are fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Getting your children involved in the kitchen is a great way to encourage healthier food choices. Let them help pick recipes, stir ingredients, or assemble their own grain-free pizzas or tacos using Sarah’s sugar-free sauces and bases. By involving them in the process, you teach valuable skills and give them ownership over their food choices.

Beyond Recipes: The Lifestyle Aspect of Quitting Sugar

What sets this cookbook apart from others is the holistic lifestyle guidance that accompanies the recipes. It’s not just about what to cook — it’s about how to reframe your relationship with food, habits, and nourishment. Sarah touches on mindful eating, kitchen organisation, and the psychology of cravings — all essential tools for those on a long-term health journey.

Paired with a Paleo mindset, the guidance in this book creates a robust foundation for a health-first life. It’s not about strict rules, but rather, about learning to listen to your body, fuel it well, and avoid falling back into a cycle of processed, high-sugar foods.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to reduce your sugar intake without sacrificing flavour, this book is a fantastic resource. Whether you’re transitioning into Paleo, doing a Whole30, or simply wanting to feel better every day, the I Quit Sugar Cookbook offers practical support and delicious inspiration. The recipes are nutrient-dense, accessible, and designed to help you feel good — not restricted.

And with two copies up for grabs in the giveaway, there’s no better time to join the movement and take control of your health, one sugar-free bite at a time.

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!

Nominee in the Best Australian Blogs 2012 Competition - The Paleo Network

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.