Behind the scenes of GRAZIA photoshoot “FORESHORE”

I had just one request when searching for the most perfect shoot location this January: a beachfront home to capture the early morning light before quickly retreating into shelter. Little did I know that when we booked the Shearwater House at Callala Beach, we’d be treated in luxury too.

Good morning, in our case it is 4:30am and the light is hitting the clear sea and white sand with reflections of pastels blues and pinks. We’re just a three-hour drive from Sydney on the pristine south coast of Jervis Bay where our crew are preparing for a shoot.

Behind the scenes of GRAZIA photoshoot “FORESHORE”
Behind the scenes of GRAZIA photoshoot “FORESHORE”

Upon entry to the secluded oasis, the location of our next editorial, we’re met with a New England style home. From the exterior it reminds me of Montauk in Long Island where I summered for many years during my former life in New York. A white picket fence leads to the sand bluffs where Adirondack lounge chairs and a fire pit feels distinctly American. But as many people can attest, there is nothing that matches the Australian coastline quite like Callala Beach and the neighbouring Hymns Beach. Powdery white sand and blue water make this remote beach town offering – swimming, snorkelling, fishing, and wildlife – world class.

Courtesy of Supercalla Private Properties
Behind the scenes of GRAZIA photoshoot “FORESHORE”

Featuring five bedrooms and four bathrooms, Shearwater House is a roomy private retreat (less the room service). Instead, the luxurious offering includes Apelles Apothecary bath products, lavender-scented pillow spray, heated towel racks and a well-stocked kitchen of appliances and utensils. The welcome pack of Four Pillars Gin and Tonic was a nice touch (and the ultimate bonus after a 14-hour shoot day). Hidden in the pantry was emergency food supplies and goodies should you have forgotten to shop.

Courtesy of Supercalla Private Properties
Courtesy of Supercalla Private Properties

Indeed, Supercalla Private Properties – the management behind the house – certainly asked the question: “If we were the guests, what would we wish for?”.

Behind the scenes of GRAZIA photoshoot “FORESHORE”

While our stay occurred in the height of summer, the spacious interior – a perfect balance of comfort and contemporary – is perfect for year-round stays. Have your choice to open the doors to the lawn for the ideal indoor-outdoor experience, or retreat to the courtyard when the cool sea breeze picks up. Unwind with a warm soak in the bathtub and stargaze by the fire outside. For the more active among us, table tennis is on offer while the surrounding national parklands is open for remote beach and bush walks.

Courtesy of Supercalla Private Properties
Courtesy of Supercalla Private Properties

For work or play or a long weekend, Shearwater House is second to none.