Sam Murdoch knows better than anyone that life throws curveballs. Some of hers include diagnoses of anxiety, depression and a chronic health condition. But above it all, Sam’s thirst for knowledge and drive to keep trying new things has led her to a life fuelled by design, family and that ever-calming coastal breeze.

Katy Dee’s rule-breaking art is a wild celebration of flora and fauna, the way the light hits the shoreline and days gone by on pebble-stone beaches. It’s freedom bursting forth from her studio doors, swiftly followed by Fleetwood Mac lyrics and the pitter patter of her paint-splattered ugg boots, darting from one canvas to the next.

Aly, a contemporary illustrator, graphic designer and educator, always knew she was lucky to call Coffs home – and today, after a number of adventures away, she’s happy to ground herself on Gumbaynggirr land once more.