5 Questions for the Outdoor Family – Rebecca Colefax

Jun 10

Many years ago (in another lifetime it seems) I met and interviewed a star in the kitesurfing world for a freelance article I was writing. Her name was Bec Nicholson and she was the women's current World Kitesurfing champion.

Years on, I stumble across a mum who married a legend in the kitesurfing world (Matt Colefax), had 3 children and has started up her own photography business. It took me a little while before things finally clicked into place and I realised I had stumbled across 'Bec' once again!

This is her story...

1. What have been some of your ‘Coolest’ Adventures (Before Kids).

"I’ve had so many but here are some favourites;

Living in Japan in my 20’s.
Marrying Australia’s first kiteboarder which I can assure you is definitely a cool adventure.

**Matt Colefax – first Australian Kiteboarder AND now a keen Paddle boarder**

Travelling on a luxury boat from Townsville to Darwin over 6 months…it was a trip of a lifetime.
Being a pioneer of the women’s division of kiteboarding, winning Australian wave sailing and national titles, as well as being the first to kite some of the most remote places in Australia......these are all fond memories.
Travelling first class to Turkey and Greece 3 times to teach one woman how to kiteboard was an awesome adventure.
Representing Australia on the Kiteboarding pro world tour as well as winning the Women’s World Title was nice way to complete my kiteboarding career."

**Getting outside is a highlight for the Colefax family**

2. What have been some of your standout ‘Special’ Moments you’ve shared with your children.

"One of the my recent ‘special’ moments was seeing my two eldest children free diving in crystal clear waters and swimming with huge green sea turtles…the freedom and joy they experienced was priceless and something you could never learn in a classroom – my only wish was that I had my camera!

When I think about it most of my ‘special’ moments have been when we are outdoors travelling and exploring together.

When we ride bikes, kiteboard, snowboard, SUP, go on boating adventures, wakeboard, surf, swim or hike and their little faces beam with excitement and pure joy.Seeing my children happy and enjoying the environment really lights up my world and makes me feel like I’m doing a good job as a mum."

3. What TIPS can you offer to families who want to do MORE with their children.

Be spontaneous!

Go outdoors!

Leave the kitchen sink behind!

Go outdoors!

"Out of all the activities available and all the adventures we do and have done in the past, the best and most fun we have as a family is on our RED Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards.

**Sharing a paddle board is the best fun for our family**

My RED SUP is the most versatile piece of equipment I’ve ever owned (trust me when I say I’ve owned a truck load of sports equipment). I’ve taken it on planes (it rolls up into a bag), trains, down rapids (can’t ding these boards), on the beach, out to islands, in the rivers and even used it at kids birthday parties.Be sure to check them out www.redpaddleco.com.au and order one today – you wont regret it!"

4. What things do would you still LIKE to experience with your children (a bucket list)?

"More of the same would be terrific. Fun, happy adventures is what we live for."

5. Where can we find you?

"I live in Noosa now and specialise in the art of pregnancy, birth, newborn and family portraiture.You can see more samples of my photo work at www.rebeccacolefax.com

OR you can follow me here: @rebeccacolefaxphotography

Instagram: @rebeccacolefax

Anything else?

"I must admit, its rare to see me doing any extreme sports these days as my main focus helping my children develop their awareness and appreciation of not only self, but also others and the environment in which they live. Being outdoors and giving things a go makes us all happy.

Do you classify you and your family as an 'Outdoor Family'? I'd love to hear some of the things you really enjoy doing as a family.

If you'd like to be featured (or could recommend someone) please contact me at kate@adventuremumma.com.au