A book about Philausophy

Australia is unlike any other place on Earth.

And it’s not just the quokkas. It’s the people.

Philausophy is a fascinating exploration into the uniquely Australian way of thinking about life, friendship and adventure, looking at all the big important questions (like why surfing, fishing, eating and sleeping might just be the best way to spend a day).

Written by some of Australia’s most respected artists, chefs, conservationists and entrepreneurs, Philausophy takes you into the laid-back, irreverent and adventurous way of life Down Under.

From how to achieve life–life balance to recognising that friendships start when complete strangers say hello, Philausophy uncovers an approach to life that is more relevant than ever before in this topsy-turvy, disconnected world.

One thing’s for sure – in one of the furthest corners of the world, Australia developed a little differently. Again, we don’t just mean the quokkas. Australia has a different way of thinking about the way of living.

Under the cover: the details

A glimpse into the authors’ chapters

CHAPTER 6: A stranger is a mate you haven’t met yet
By Ben Shewry

Ben Shewry is the head chef and owner of Attica in Melbourne, one of the world’s best restaurants. His focus is on Australian native produce, from murnong to bunya nuts, much of which grows in Attica’s kitchen garden.

Ben moved to Australia from New Zealand when he was 25-years old. Then, he was a hopeful young chef with just a few hundred dollars to his name. In his chapter, Ben ruminates on his first days in Australia and realises how much local Australians have impacted his life, and how their friendship helped him build one of the world’s most in-demand restaurants.

Excerpt from Chapter 6:

‘It’s easier to be there for people when something’s being celebrated, or when you’re winning, when everything’s going right in your life. I think Australia is defined as a country by how we’ll do in the harder times. Every time I’ve had a hard time, other Australians have been there for me. It’s like Australians say, ‘How can we help? We’ve got to do something.’ Australians lead with their hearts.’

CHAPTER 8: Life–life balance
By Kylie Kwong

Kylie Kwong is an experienced restaurateur, celebrity chef, bestselling author and much-loved television presenter, based in Sydney. She passionately believes in community and growing and cooking food to create a sense of wellbeing. 

Kylie comes from a 'highly energetic family,' and it’s this (sometimes manic) energy that helped her open Sydney's well-known Billy Kwong restaurant when she was just 31. Kylie knows all about hard work, but she also understands the value of balance. In her chapter, Kylie chats about her relationship with work and her endeavour to dismiss distractions in order to focus on what’s truly important.

Excerpt from Chapter 8:

‘I used to be obsessed about going to work at Billy Kwong. I would think about every aspect of the restaurant, listening, observing and reflecting, and then thinking about what my message was as a cook, as a restaurateur. I loved the truly authentic and meaningful ‘Australian-Cantonese’ cuisine my team and I were developing – to me, it was like being able to offer ‘Australia on a plate’.

‘But then I began to feel differently. I started to wake up and say to my wife, Nell, ‘I’m feeling a bit like I’m not sure if I want to go in to work today.’ Then this kind of feeling stayed with me and I thought to myself, Okay, that’s something you need to look at.

‘I had a sort of disgruntled-ness, this voice knocking on my door saying, ‘Listen to me, you’ve got changes going on inside of you, I need you to listen to me.’ So, I sat up and I listened.’

CHAPTER 10: If you’ve got it good, share it
By Terri Irwin

Terri Irwin is an Australian wildlife conservationist who continues the work of her late husband, Steve Irwin the Crocodile Hunter. Terri and their children, Bindi and Robert, operate Australia Zoo, the biggest and best wildlife conservation facility in the world. The trio are currently co-stars of Crikey! It’s the Irwins TV show.

As one of the country’s most recognised adopted residents (Terri originally hails from the United States), Terri has fully embraced the Australian generosity of spirit. In the book, Terri discusses the cherished – and challenging – moments of Australia Zoo, and why she and her family continue to dedicate their lives to animal conservation.

Excerpt from Chapter 10:

‘I first came [to Australia] for a visit more than 27 years ago and today there’s still that generous attitude of, ‘While you’re here why don’t you stay for dinner’ or ‘Can I give you a ride somewhere?’ It is just the incredible kindness that you find with Australians willing to share their backyard with you. I’m proud that the kindness of Australian people and their connectedness with nature hasn’t dramatically changed in the time that I’ve been here.’