Latest Stories

Craving some short, witty and insightful content in between issues of Swell?
Our Short Stories have got you covered.
Culture
Hannah here, your resident Ted Lasso super fan. I was sure season three was the end, but with Jason Sudeikis confirming season four, the obsession lives on. So here’s what we know so far about Ted’s return to Richmond.
Travel
Parenting doesn’t stop when you’re on holiday, it just relocates. In this story, Hannah shares her honest (and slightly sleep-deprived) reflections on family trips over the years: the chaos, the laughter, and the unexpected moments that turn into treasured memories.
People
Newcastle author Natalie Murray returns with her second novel, Lights, Camera, Love - a warm, dance-fuelled romance set against the backdrop of Sydney’s film industry (with a little Hunter Valley magic too). We chat to her about inspiration, character backstories and the importance of writing stories with both light and shadow.
Wellbeing
Have you ever been lured by a brand of skincare purely because it was labelled natural or organic? Secondly, would you feel confident letting a baby taste any of the products currently found in your bathroom cabinet? If you answered yes and then no, you’re on your way to understanding the philosophy behind local certified organic skincare range for mothers and babies, Willow by the Sea.
Wellbeing
Born from a love of surf, coffee and helping people live better lives, Transcend Health is redefining healthcare in Newcastle - one tailored movement at a time.
Food
ACACIA Dining has launched a new evening menu, bringing refined yet approachable dining to a night out in Maitland. Swell chats to owner Reece Hignell to find out more.
Home
Styling a house can be tons of fun but when it comes to interiors, the overwhelm of getting it right is real. Whether you’re giving a room a refresh or turning a brand-new house into a place to call home, we’ve gathered all the expert advice to help make your pad insta-worthy in no time.
Wellbeing
When life throws you a curveball, you don’t have to pretend it’s all okay. From loss to lockdowns, here’s how Swell writer learned to cope, reset, and find new light in everyday life.
Home
In a world of fast furniture and cookie-cutter design, Newcastle maker Reioni Douglas is doing things differently. As the founder of Culture Cush, she designs and handcrafts modular lounges that are made to last - and made to fit your life.
Travel
After a very drizzly old winter, we could not be more keen for some weekend adventures! Lucky for us, we don’t have to go too far from home to explore some amazing spots. From riverside towns to coastal gems, here are five easy day-trips from Newcastle to make the most of sunny days ahead (fingers crossed!)
Life
Who knew friends were so hard to come by as you get older? It’s not because you’ve suddenly become unlovable or unknowingly socially awkward (you’re still awesome). It turns out the friend-making rules change in adulthood. Here’s why making new pals now takes a heck of a lot more effort than it used to, plus ways to find your people.
People
Newcastle-based jeweller Holly Oswald is keeping the art of handmade jewellery alive. Through her label, Holly Michele Jewellery, she crafts meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces by hand.
Art
Palinopsia: derived from the Greek word palin (again) and opsia (seeing). The persistent recurrence of a visual image after it’s been removed from physical sight. A memory, a vision, a moment that lasts. Tamara Bajic, founder of Palinopsia in Cooks Hill, hopes her ceramic collection leaves that impression.
Home
Love colour but not sure how to use it at home, especially with something permanent like tiles? Diana Di Lorenzo shares her expert advice on creating vibrant, welcoming spaces that still feel timeless.
Art
Newcastle-based handmade jewellery brand Holmeswares creates vibrant, hand-painted earrings and accessories designed to brighten your day and spark conversations. Discover the story behind the colourful creations of founder Sarah Holmes.

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