We've all heard it before — "you can't pour from an empty cup." But as women, that cup often feels like it's being filled and emptied on repeat. Between work, family, and the mental load, it's easy to slip into survival mode — calling an occasional nap or face mask "self-care" and moving on. Here's the truth: real self-care is more than rest — it's reconnection. The Missing Piece in Modern Self-Care Self-care has become a buzzword. It's easy to think it's something we have to

December has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute you’re settling into the rhythm of the year, and the next you’re juggling school events, Christmas plans, work deadlines, family expectations, social catch-ups and the pressure to “finish strong.” It’s easy to move through these final weeks on autopilot - doing, doing, doing - without stopping to check in with yourself. But before the year closes, you deserve a moment to breathe. To reflect. To honour what this year has been

December in the Shire is magical… but it can also feel a little full on . Between Christmas shopping, school holidays, hosting, events and trying to keep your home (and your energy!) intact — the season can get busy fast. So we’ve put together a curated list of trusted SLAM partner businesses  who can genuinely make this month easier, sweeter and more joyful. Every business below offers an exclusive SLAM discount , available to all members, family and friends. Just mention SL

December in the Shire is full of festive magic — from twilight markets to carols under the stars. Here’s everything worth knowing this month so you can plan your summer celebrations with ease. Festive Markets & Community Events Kurnell Village Festival — Sunday 7 December 2025 A relaxed, family-friendly festival with food trucks, artisan stalls and live entertainment throughout the day. Christmas Gingerbread Workshop — Thursday 11 December 2025 4:30pm–5:30pm Location:  Suther

Let’s be honest for a moment. A family holiday is often just parenting in a different location  — with more sunscreen, heavier bags, and someone yelling “Muuuum!”  every 14 seconds. The memories are beautiful. The smiles are everything. The joy is real. But at the same time? Many of us are quietly thinking: “When do I actually get to rest?” Because loving our kids and needing a break from constant responsibility can both be true. If you’ve ever holidayed somewhere like Bali o

The race that stops the nation returns — and both the Sutherland Shire and Sydney are bringing the bubbles, fashion, and fabulous food. Whether you're after a relaxed beachside lunch or a glamorous city rooftop, here's your guide to the best Melbourne Cup celebrations for 2025. Sutherland Shire Venues Zinc Bar, Cronulla — $50pp A fun, affordable way to celebrate by the sea. Enjoy a drink on arrival, canapé lunch, games, prizes,  and the race live on screen. Perfect for a lai

Every woman has a story - the highs, the lows, and all the messy, beautiful bits in between. SLAM Sessions is our way of sharing those stories, shining a light on the women in our community and the journeys that shape them. This month, we’re honoured to introduce Jemima Clarke , founder of The Counselling Cove  in Caringbah. Jemima is a registered counsellor who helps people find calm in the chaos - supporting clients through grief, anxiety, burnout, and the everyday challeng

If you’ve been searching for the perfect excuse to gather your girlfriends for a coastal catch-up — Rydges Cronulla  just delivered it. Their new Apericena at The Alley  is here, and it’s everything we love about Italian dining: relaxed, abundant, and best enjoyed with a spritz in hand. For just $35 per person , enjoy bottomless Italian bites  plus your choice of one drink — spritz, wine, or  beer. It’s the kind of Thursday evening that effortlessly rolls from golden hour int

Big news for waterfront dining lovers! The Georges River Sailing Club  in Sandringham has been quietly transformed — and its stunning new restaurant, Porta , officially opens in November. Launching on Sunday, 3 November , Porta brings modern coastal dining and Mediterranean-inspired sophistication to one of Sydney’s most beautiful waterfront locations. Meet Porta — Where Mediterranean Meets Botany Bay Perched right on the water’s edge, Porta  blends Mediterranean flavours wit

Big news for Sydney’s south! The iconic Novotel Brighton Beach  has undergone a spectacular transformation, relaunching as The Brighton, MGallery  — a stunning new addition to the bayside that brings a touch of European-inspired luxury right to our doorstep. This isn’t just a name change. It’s a complete reimagining of one of Sydney’s most beloved beachfront venues — and we’re thrilled to be among the first to host an event at the brand-new rooftop . Source: The Brighton Hote

If you’ve got little ones, you’ll know how tricky it can be to find a spot where everyone — big and small — can actually enjoy a meal out. With a few local venues recently removing their play areas, I think every parent in the Shire has been quietly wondering the same thing… Where can we go now that still caters to families with young children? Well, our prayers have been answered 🙌 The Willarong , the brand-new Caringbah Bowling Club, has just announced it’s officially open

Halloween in the Sutherland Shire has become one of our favourite nights of the year. There’s something magical about seeing the whole community come alive — kids in costumes, houses draped in cobwebs, and that excited buzz as families hit the streets together. Since moving to the Shire, it’s become our little family tradition to go trick-or-treating along Taronga Street in Caringbah  and around the block. The kids absolutely love it — the spooky decorations, the friendly nei

Spring has arrived in full bloom, and October is packed with sunshine, community spirit, and events worth getting out for. Whether you're after local markets, live music, outdoor cinema, or Halloween fun, this month has something for everyone. Here's your curated guide to the best of October across Sutherland Shire and Sydney. 🌿 📍 Sutherland Shire Highlights Markets & Community Gatherings Gymea Village Festival — Sunday, 26 October The Shire's biggest annual celebration is

Escape the noise and rediscover yourself at the Return to You Retreat — a women’s wellness weekend just 90 minutes from Sydney. Set among the lush gardens of Bowen Mountain, this nurturing yoga and meditation retreat is your invitation to rest, reset, and reconnect before the year ends. In 4 Days, You Could Be Waking Up to Birdsong Instead of Your Alarm When was the last time you gave yourself permission to truly rest? Not scrolling-in-bed rest.Not “I’ll relax when this is do

Creative Workshops for Kids If your kids are into dancing and performing, check out the K-Pop Dance Workshop at Ascendance Academy. It’s...

Every woman has a story - the highs, the lows, and all the tender, powerful moments in between. SLAM Sessions is our way of honouring those stories, shining a light on the women who shape our community through their courage, wisdom, and lived experience. To launch our very first Session, we’re proud to spotlight Alexis Hannagan , founder of The Sanctuary Australia  in Loftus. For over 14 years, Alexis has led retreats and workshops across the globe, blending ancient wisdom wi

Over the last six months, our Women in Business Lunch series has grown into something truly special. What began as a simple idea -...

Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate the dads, father figures, and role models in our lives. This year, instead of socks or...

Let's be honest – making friends as an adult feels like dating, but somehow more awkward. Remember when friendship just happened? You sat...

August in the Shire is serving up cosy vibes, live music, fresh markets, and some seriously good foodie deals. Whether you’re chasing a Sunday sesh, sipping cocktails with friends, or exploring somewhere brand new, here’s what’s on our radar this month. New Spots to Try Homer Rogue Taverna – Now Open Cronulla’s newest Greek taverna brings laid-back Athenian charm with a share-style menu made for group feasting. Think fluffy flatbreads, spicy tirokafteri, hand-rolled dolmades,