They are Far North Queensland’s most incongruous neighbours: tourists, sea changers and land developers chasing a slice of tropical paradise versus the world’s most at-risk ratite — the flamboyant, flightless and very much endangered southern cassowary.

Recent research suggests social ties are as important to our health and wellbeing as diet and exercise. As extensions of ourselves and microcosms of society, our homes are the perfect place to start designing and building better relationships.

When I was a kid, my mum made the best pea and ham soup. Now that I’m vegan I’ve created my plant-based version. Smoked tofu gives it the smokiness of ham.

Finding opportunities for stillness throughout your day helps soothe the nervous system for optimal health.

Clutter is junk we accumulate in our houses or offices and it is important to declutter and tidy up. Physically it helps our houses look tidier. Mentally and emotionally it also gives us the satisfaction of a clean environment creating space for new experiences in life. If you are uncomfortable with where you are at in your life it’s time to let go, get rid of the clutter and move on.

Learning to breathe better not only boosts your energy levels. A controlled, calm breath can help reduce stress, improve your thinking, ease chronic pain and bridge the connection between your body and mind.

This is my plant-based version of the classic Italian pasta and meatballs. You can make super-good balls from vegies and legumes and grains. The trick to binding them is chickpea flour.

Lamb is a good sources of vitamin B12 which plays a vital role in healthy nervous system and brain function. B12 is also an important vitamin needed for red blood cell production. Lamb is rich in protein to provide your body with the amino acids it needs to build and repair muscles, maintain healthy hair, skin and nails and heal wounds. Lamb is also an excellent source of iron, which is extremely important for strengthening the immune system.

Hands down some of the easiest yet wow-factor dishes are those that land in a slow cooker. The slow, low nature of the cooking process allows more of the flavour to be released and to combine with the complementary ingredients of the dish. I’m on a mission this winter to create more plant-based slow-cooked

Needing help is not a weakness. Learn how to step beyond society’s love affair with self-reliance and embrace your vulnerabilities.

This is an interesting way to use hemp. It has a clean and creamy texture and flavour.

Although you can almost smell the scent of spring in the air, it’s important to bolster your immunity as the change of season draws closer. We take a look at how medicinal mushrooms can help you do this.