This past weekend was packed with fun and lots of adrenaline. It started with a relaxed cookout at Coogee Beach, where the beachside barbecue vibes and the amazing view made for the perfect Friday evening. The Aussie beach culture really stood out—public BBQs are everywhere, and people actually use them. It’s such a laid-back, communal vibe compared to the U.S., where grilling often feels like more of a delivery system of a meal. At Coogee, the mix of locals and travelers sharing the space gave it a welcoming, community-driven feel that’s uniquely Australian.
Saturday brought the action with an early morning with a spontaneous paintball session planned the night before. Running through the course, ducking behind barriers, and getting lit up with paint was both chaotic and hilarious. The competitiveness was real and the post-game welts served as reminders of the morning. I had the chance to play with some Australian teammates and the Aussie humor made it even better with their dry and sarcastic humor that you wouldn’t usually hear in the States, but somehow friendlier at the same time.
The weekend closed out with a Saturday night concert. The crowd energy was electric, and the live music scene in Australia really is completely estranged from that of the United States. There’s more genuine enthusiasm and the genres that young folks go after leans much more in EDM and house music. People just seem to let go and enjoy the moment, without worrying how they look or who’s watching.
Overall, the weekend was a brilliant blend of outdoors, competition, and music. What stood out most was the cultural contrast. Australians embrace a more spontaneous, outdoorsy lifestyle, with a deep sense of community. It’s more relaxed, less polished, but just as rich in experience. It’s a reminder that sometimes, doing less planning leads to unforeseen experiences.
