Live Differently – Byron Bay

There is little doubt that there is a growing interest in topics such as sustainability, spirituality, health (both physical and mental) and alternative ways of living. This is highlighted by the increasing popularity of topics such as the Tiny House movement, Sustainable Development, and Minimalism. A recent Gallup poll showed 80% of workers in Australia are dissatisfied in their work. These trends and facts point to a growing disillusionment of the current system of study, work , indentured homeownership and eventual retirement.

On top of all this, we find ourselves faced with a post bushfire Australia in a global pandemic, in a climate compromised world. With Covid alone the figures are anxiety inducing, with over 16 million recorded cases and over 650,000 deaths. This has led to sudden and unavoidable changes and adaptations in the way we live, work and learn. Live Differently will provide insights on how to face a changing world.

To challenge conventional ideas and to create new perspectives as to how we can best live our lives in today’s world.

A recent Gallup poll showed 80% of workers in Australia are dissatisfied in their work.. Where and how we live, our communities and what we do for work - all directly impact our mental and physical health. Many struggle to thrive in the always on 9-5 modern society. There is growing disillusionment with the current system of study, work, and retirement. We want to demonstrate that there are practical alternatives that are within the reach of ordinary people, that could have an extraordinary impact on their quality of life. Our long term vision is for Live Differently - Byron Bay to catapult us into a national and potentially international series on the same topic, exploring those who have chosen to lead a life of their own design.

The whole reason for Live Differently is to demonstrate, through the discovery and sharing of real life stories, that it is possible to make significant changes in the way you live. Only by making this relevant to our viewers, can we hope to achieve our outcomes. To spark the national conversation - we will ensure that the stories we uncover are undeniably inspirational - and both relevant and relatable at the same time. Furthermore, it is essential that this documentary must be reflective of the society we live in order to inspire the society in which we are apart.

As such, Live Differently will reflect the modern multicultural society in which we live. To date, proof of concept subjects have included Indigenous Australians, female and male subjects, members of LGBTQI+ community, Australian Citizens of foreign descent (e.g. Indian and European), as well as an inclusive age range.

Byron is well known for the high level participation and influence that the local community has on the local area. It is vital to have the ongoing support of local people, businesses and institutions. To date we have met with and been endorsed by Screenworks, Byron Bay Rangers and the Ananda Medical Clinic. Our producer is also a Byron local, heavily involved in the local community, and has made ongoing contact with many iconic Byron institutes, such as “The Farm’, The Byron Bay Cookie Company and Local Film School The SAE.

Throughout the entire documentary, we will always aim to break down - into realistic and digestive chunks, real life practical takeaways that the audience can actually use in their day to day lives. We therefore implore, imply and hope that the documentary will first plant a seed of thought which begins with “if I only could do that” to “I could do that!”

This change of perspective and practical information should then arm the viewer to begin making changes in their lives. For many, these may be small incremental changes that improve the quality of lives gradually, or others may feel inspired to take more dramatic action. Whilst taking direct considered and real actions, we would also hope that we begin that viewers will begin a conversation around this subject within their families, friendship circle and wider communities. Whilst we want to begin a national conversation, the talking begins at a grassroots level.

There are various indicators of success in regards to this project. Primarily, anyone or group that goes on to make significant personal change would deem it a success. We want to see a national conversation begin that takes on its own life, whereby a community is created around the idea that we share our stories of creating a new way of living, in order to help others do the same, at this point, we feel our Impact Vision statement will be realised.