From Grief to Grace: A new chapter for Southern Wild Co
It started with the land. Always, it comes back to the land – its quiet beauty, its untamed edges, its whispers of resilience. Southern Wild Co was born from that spirit, a way to honour the Australian bush and its poetry. Over the years, it became more than a business; it was a home, a sanctuary, a reflection of a life shared with my partner Matt. Together, we built something that echoed the landscape we loved: raw, honest and deeply connected.
↑ The early days of Southern Wild Co with Matt and Boris on the verandah of the Shedquarters, shot for Country Style Magazine by Michael Wee.
↑ Contemplating a new chapter for Southern Wild Co, Rockley NSW
↑ A place with bones that speak of resilience and reinvention
↑ A final picture taken in the Shedquarters with Boris and baby Luca, styled by dearest Cheryl @albertandgrace and shot by Wesley Vorster.
But life, in its unpredictability, has a way of shifting the ground beneath you. Almost a year ago, everything changed. Grief came knocking late one night and in its shadow, I found myself navigating an uncharted terrain. Yet even in the darkest moments, there were glimmers – the unwavering loyalty of Boris and Luca, my chocolate labs, the kindness of strangers, the steadfast support of friends and family. It was these threads of connection that began to weave a new story.
I didn’t know the landscape of grief could be so vast, so consuming, until the night the knock came – the blue of a police uniform on the verandah, Boris madly barking at the intrusion. Matt was gone. Just like that. My world shattered into a silence that rang louder than anything I’d ever heard. Those first months, the solitude of the bush was both sanctuary and torment. The Shedquarters, once a haven for creation and comfort, now echoed with an emptiness I couldn’t fill.
But grief, for all its weight, is fertile ground. It’s the kind of soil that grows strange, unexpected things. One Wednesday night in October last year, amidst the clatter of cutlery and the lively chatter of conversation at the Rockley Pub, a snippet of talk drifted my way: the old bank might be up for sale. It wasn’t more than a passing comment, a fragment of someone else’s story. But later, back home, staring up at the sparkling Milky Way, it took root. An idea. A possibility.
I imagined the old Georgian building, its walls heavy with the whispers of history. I thought about the stories those stables might hold, tales of Cobb & Co coaches rattling in during the gold rush, of travellers brushing the dust from their coats. I pictured the bank and residence transformed into something new – a place where Southern Wild Co could thrive, where the spirit of Australia’s bush could be woven into every corner. The more I let the idea simmer, the more it became a beacon. Hope, at last, was taking shape.
By year’s end, I stood on the steps of the 1872 building, the keys cool in my hand. I’d bought a bank. And not just any bank, but a piece of Australia’s story, a place with bones that speak of resilience and reinvention. The decision to sell the farm and Shedquarters had been wrenching, but necessary. This move wasn’t just practical; it was symbolic. A bridge between the life Matt and I had built and the one I now have to carve out on my own.
The handsome stables, mirroring the footprint of the old bank and house, have become Southern Wild Co’s new creative studio. Their weathered timbers and whitewashed walls seem to echo the resilience of the land itself, ready to embrace a new chapter of creativity and light. Already, I see the light spilling in, the way it dances on the workbenches, illuminating scented wares that speak of gum leaves and salt spray, of wattle and smoke. The village of Rockley, with its historic charm and close-knit community, is breathing new life into the brand.
There’s something about old buildings. They hold you in a way that new ones can’t. Their walls are storytellers, their floors creak with memory. As I set about restoring this old place, I’m reminded daily of the passage of time, of what endures. The work will be slow, painstaking, but it feels right. Each coat of paint, each repaired brick and beam is an offering, a way of saying, “I see you, and I’ll honour what you’ve been.”
Southern Wild Co remains devoted to the land, to the stories of this place. In the seventh year of its life, the brand feels stronger than ever, its roots deep in the soil of this country. We’ll continue to craft rituals for the home, to celebrate art and poetry, and the flora and fauna that define Australia’s essence. But now, there’s an added layer. The history of Rockley, the spirit of this village, has woven itself into our narrative. And through it all, I’ve found a way forward.
Some days, the boys – Boris and Lucas – sit by the door, waiting for a shadow that will never return. Only Boris knew Matt and sadly, he never got to say goodbye. I sit with them, my hand in thick fur, and we wait together. For what, I don’t always know. But the waiting feels less hollow now. The bank, the old house, the stables, this new chapter – it’s all a testament to what endures. To hope, to love, to the beauty of beginning again.
And if I close my eyes, I can hear Matt’s voice, see his cheeky grin. “This,” he’d say, “was meant to be.” In my heart, I know he would have wanted it this way – a life steeped in resilience, love and the land that binds it all together.
27 comments
What a heart-renching story. It
brought me to tears 😢 I miss Matt so much too.I can see you will be happy in your new home with your 2 beautiful boys/ my grandogs.
Love you . Mum xxxooo
A beautifully written piece on your next venture. I have followed SWC for quite a few years now. Cannot wait to visit your Bank. Take care Mary
My tear-stained cheeks and I are so thrilled for you, and the township of Rockley, for this next beautiful chapter together. What a story, T. Lots of love ❤️
Dear Tanya
Sadness and hope intertwined and so beautifully expressed!
Sending my love
Jenny
I love and cherish what you have built together and what you create. Your products are so amazing and the love and care you put in shows. Congratulations on the new space. I look forward to seeing what it unfurls.
I hope one day I can set up my own florist shop and I will definitely want to have your amazing scents on its shelves
Reading this with tears rolling down my cheeks, I can’t help being in awe of your incredible resilience and optimism. Matt was one of a kind. An absolute larrikin who adored you, Boris and the life and lifestyle you created together. I can’t imagine how difficult this must be and can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds you and Southern Wild Co. I’m sure it will be nothing short of remarkable. Sending love x
Such beautiful words and a devastating time for you and your puppy dogs but such sweet sweet memories. Stay strong lovely lady Xx
I’ve just lost my beloved and inspiring mom far too soon and your story brought me to tears of both understanding and hope. I can’t wait to witness the beauty you thread into the walls and heart of your new space and keep you company in the waiting. Xxx
This is so exciting and sounds like a wonderful location .
A beautiful story.
Grief is a difficult journey to travel & one must grieve in their own way. Having a project will be so healing.
Thank you for sharing & I wish you much happiness with your Project. Thinking of you. 🤗
Beautiful Tani
I’m so happy for you but especially I’m so proud of you
With love and respect
Simmone ❤️
Congratulations. Another reason to visit Rocklea again.
What an inspiring story. You are strong. I look forward to following your journey 💕.
This is so beautifully written. I’m sorry for your loss and I hope this next chapter brings you much joy and peace. I also love your brand- it really speaks to me! Mags x
What a heart wrenching and beautiful story about your life’s journey. I hope the wealth that the bank saw in its time rubs off and blesses you with all of the many important types of wealth in life, but most of all a wealth of peace and contentment. I really love so many of the Southern Wild Co candle scents and products and will continue to purchase them for both myself, friends and family.
I am thinking of you , with much love ..
The story of you and Matt and your Southern Wild family is a treasure..
I am grateful to you all for sharing your friendship and memories… and creations .. wishing you all life’s blessings.. xo
I am so happy that you have been able to purchase the Old Bank in Rockley and am excited to see the progress as you begin to renovate this old gem, to its former glory.
The building holds a close connection to me, as my father was a Stanger. He also was the one who placed a memorial plaque about his family, in the park across the road.
What history is wrapped up in this building!
I hope to one day be able to return to Rockley and see how you bring life into this beautiful old building.
All the very best with your new adventures and the beginnings of a new season.
Liz Carson nee Stanger
You are brilliant
This new move is brilliant
May you go well as your star continues to shine
I live by the biblical term “beauty for ashes” and this is what I hope for you but I can see you are already well on your way
Blessings Jeanne
Tania
I wish you well in your new home.
Your story certainly touched my heart as I truly do know the real feel of grief and loss.
Take very good care
Louise xxx
What a heartbreaking but beautiful story you have shared. You are a storyteller in all that you do through Southern Wild Co and Rockley is blessed to call you one of their own. I am not too far away and will definitely be visiting when you are up and running. Warm regards Sue 🌹
Your story brings tears to my eyes. Your words show your strength. I wish you well and I hope the ‘bank’ brings you a wealth of happiness.
Thanks for making such a beautiful product. The love of country and the country in your candles is what makes them an experience.
Thankyou
Ohhh Tania
I am so happy for you. Bitter sweet yes but boy this was planned for you. I love what you do , always have and always will. I will follow you forever and be inspired by ALL of you. Keep allowing yourself to be open to the universe she has great things install for you and we to get to be the recipients of all this goodness.
Much love always
Leesa xxx
Oh Tani my love – this made me cry tears of sadness and of joy!!
I am so excited for your next chapter.
Miss you and think of you often xxx
I cannot wait to visit your new headquarters and wish you all the very best. Tonight I will light my Hidden Vale candle in memory of the love you shared & the hope that awaits. With my utmost admiration for your creativity, vulnerability and strength, Sara x
We are so very excited that you, Boris and Luca are calling Rockley village home. ‘Was meant to be’! ❤️