A Reflection on Mount Mulligan & Portsea: A Journey Through Scents, Stories, and New Beginnings

As I sit back in the studio after my recent travels, I can’t help but reflect on the experiences and the moments that defined my time at Mount Mulligan and Portsea. These places, though worlds apart, left an indelible mark on my heart and soul. They brought me closer to the essence of what Olfactory Dept is all about—connection, the power of memory, and the transformative nature of scent.

The Storms and the Connection of Mount Mulligan

Mount Mulligan in Far North Queensland was nothing short of magical. I found myself in awe of the ferocious beauty of the Wet season storms, with thunder rolling across the sky and the clouds heavy with rain. Yet, the storm would often pass, leaving behind a stillness that spoke volumes. There’s a certain magic in the unpredictability of nature, something that echoes the sense of impermanence we often find in our lives. It’s in these moments, when the world is at its most raw and untamed, that I feel closest to the heart of Olfactory Dept’s journey.

But it wasn’t just the storms that left an impression. Christmas at Mount Mulligan was an experience that I'll hold dear forever. A group of strangers, from all corners of the globe, sat down together for a Christmas dinner. Despite their differences in background and culture, they became a family. This moment of connection, of shared humanity, reminded me why I create: to bring people together, to remind them of what they share, even when they come from different walks of life.

The Magic of Portsea: A Family Found in the Most Unexpected Places

Portsea, too, was a journey of connection, albeit in a different way. I found myself working alongside a younger generation, a group of 18 to 25-year-olds who quickly became more than just colleagues—they became family. We spent evenings sharing stories, drinks after work, and the most delicious wagyu and Japanese doughnuts. There was an ease and warmth to our time together, a sense of belonging I hadn’t anticipated but deeply appreciated.

One of the most memorable experiences for me was simply sitting in the midst of it all—feeling the way the sun dipped low, the conversations flowed, and how, despite the chaos of our workdays, we created a sanctuary in each other’s company. Portsea, with its coastal charm and relaxed vibe, felt like the perfect counterpoint to the intensity of Mount Mulligan, and yet both shared a common thread: a deep connection to people and place.

A Moment of Reflection: From the Virgin Lounge to Becoming a Perfumer

Travel has a way of shifting perspective, and my time at the Virgin lounge during a delayed flight was just that—a shift. As I went through old photos and videos, I marveled at how far Olfactory Dept had come, how much we’ve grown as a brand, and how much I’ve grown alongside it. For the first time, I introduced myself as a perfumer. That simple shift in identity felt like a milestone—a moment when I truly embraced the journey I’ve been on.

Coming Back to the Studio: Inspired, But Ready for More

So, what does coming back to the studio mean for me? To be honest, I feel like I need another holiday! But there’s a sense of renewal that comes with returning to the familiar rhythm of creation. I’m recharged by the connections I made at Portsea and the new friends I’ve met along the way. I’m especially excited to create a Portsea-inspired scent. Picture this: a fragrance inspired by the essence of a French café, with the comforting smell of hot chocolates for children, the salty air after a swim, and the familiar faces of locals. I want this scent to capture that sense of calm after the chaotic summer days—a sensory escape for anyone who’s ever longed for a quiet moment of peace.

Travel and Scent-Making: The Influence of Place

Travel, for me, is about people—how they live, what they cherish, and how I want them to feel. Whether it’s the sun-kissed warmth of Orpheus Island, the indulgent culinary delights at Beechmont Estate, or the serene atmosphere of the A Hotel where the outside world fades away, I want every scent to take you back to those moments. The power of scent is that it can transport you—close your eyes, and suddenly, you’re back in the heart of a destination, feeling its pulse, breathing in its essence.

Olfactory Dept in 2025: A New Chapter Begins

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m filled with excitement about the new directions we’ll take. We’re releasing room sprays to introduce you to our beloved Nautical and Pelorus scents. I’m also thrilled to announce discussions with a homewares company for an exclusive Olfactory Collection, including handwashes. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to share what’s next.

But beyond the products, I want this year to be about deeper connections. I want you to experience scents that stir something within you—that make you feel something profound. Whether it's the nostalgia of a past holiday, the serenity of a quiet moment, or the excitement of a new adventure, I want each fragrance to transport you.

A Final Thought: The Feeling I Want to Evoke

When you experience our scents this year, I want you to feel something—perhaps a sense of calm, or the joy of a fond memory, or even the excitement of something new. More than anything, I want you to feel connected—connected to the moments, the places, and the people that have shaped who you are. Because, at the heart of Olfactory Dept, it’s not just about the fragrance—it’s about the journey it takes you on.

This year, let our scents remind you: no matter where you go, you are never truly alone.