Home Ground: A Byron Local Shares The Cafes, Hikes And Groups Shaping Culture
For more than a decade, Magdalena Roze was a familiar face beaming into lounge rooms across the country, forecasting wild weather, covering national disasters and co-hosting prime-time television. But beyond the studio lights and Olympic broadcasts, there was always another rhythm pulling at her: wholefoods simmering on the stove, farmers’ markets at dawn, conversations with chefs and growers, and a deep respect for the natural environment.
Now firmly grounded in Byron Bay, Magdalena’s world feels beautifully aligned. A trained meteorologist with a Graduate Diploma in Atmospheric Science, an award-winning journalist, cookbook author and co-founder of cult yeast spread Oomite, she brings both science and soul to everything she does, from decoding a cold front to nourishing young families through food.
Firmly on Home Ground, Magdalena shares her Byron Bay through the lens of one who understands nature’s moods, knows the best tables in town, and cares deeply about the land and community she calls home. From post-swim coffee rituals to produce-driven dining spots and the places she goes when she needs to reset, this is Byron Bay according to one of its most passionate locals.
What’s a local spot you always take visitors to?
The icons like The Lighthouse and The Pass. No matter how many times you experience these places, even as a local, the views of the ocean, whales and dolphins frolicking, the quality of the surf and the light at golden hour never get old. And one of the farmer’s markets, especially to have breakfast at The Nomadic Kitchen.
Which region of Byron do you think best reflects the real town as it is right now, and what do you love about spending time there?
Byron has changed exponentially over the few years but thankfully a lot of it still retains the essence of community and culture such as Brunswick Heads with its beautiful river, great local food hangs and legendary pub. For me, the farmer’s markets, especially Mullumbimby and New Brighton, are what it’s all about. It’s where community, hyper-local food and live music come together. There’s no better (or more delicious) way to shop.
Where’s your local cafe?
You’ll pretty much always find us at our place, Three Blue Ducks on The Farm! For coffee, I am a classic flat white with full cream milk. For food it’s always changing and I usually get excited by what the farmers are growing so right now it’s Jordy’s beef tartare with Oliver’s egg yolk (both of these farmers are onsite). I also love the steak however it comes and the Sunday Roast each week is our go-to.
Where’s the best spot for dinner?
For something special, Bistro Livi in Murwillumbah is still the benchmark for an exceptional dining experience. I’ve been saying it for years since it opened, but I still think its one of the best, if not the best dining experience in regional NSW. Elegant yet effortless. We also love Roco Ramen in Bruns. The slow cooked broth has wonderful depth and rye noodles are hand-made and hand-cut in house. We also love La Casita for tacos.
What’s the best bar and what are you drinking?
It’s kind of restaurant and bar, but I do enjoy the cocktails are Mullum Continental and I’m drinking a dirty martini. Bar Heather is great too.
Who are some Byron creatives, makers or small business owners you think deserve more love?
I could honestly write a thesis on this because I have an enormous passion for seeking these people and producers out and showcasing them on my video series “Season” on instagram. But I’ll try to keep it condensed! Deb Allard makes incredible cheese which is available at the farmer’s markets. Kat Harvey is another excellent cheesemaker but she’s also a cheesemonger and her small shop in Murwillumbah is well worth a visit for putting together an epic platter or picnic - or for one of her unbelievable cheese toasties. Home in the town of Alstonville is an incredible cake shop and providore. Cherie’s nostalgic sweets are the stuff of dreams, trust me! (there is a great butcher across the road too). I love going to Manu’s deli in Bangalow when I want to feel like I’m in Italy. His pizza, cheeses and charcuterie are delicious, and he makes every customer feel so welcome. It’s an experience. Maurizio at Bay Pizza Lab also deserves a mention as his pizza dough is exceptional and his tiramisu could be best I’ve ever had.
Where do you go when you want to feel inspired or get a reset—nature spot, gallery, venue, anywhere?
I visit one of the local waterfalls, which can usually be tied in with a food experience. So the most recent one was a visit to the monthly markets at The Channon which is arguably the most authentic food and crafts market in the region right now. We had the dumplings, bibimbap, a coffee and picked up some beautiful flowers and local ceramics. This was followed by a short walk to the incredible Protester’s Falls. This waterfall is not only moving for its beauty, but its historical significance as the site of Australia’s first successful anti-logging protest. You can’t help but be totally grateful for the people that put everything on the line to protect this priceless rainforest. We had a little picnic there after too.
Is there a community or cultural space in Byron that means something special to you?
Bruns Picture House is a bit of a treasure. We’re lucky to have some of the country’s best acts come to this little town from comedians to thespians and live music. I regularly go to shows here. I also think the shows Bangalow Theatre Company put on are are exceptional. There’s so much talent here.