Mark Coles Smith

“This film was an outrageous homage to my love of sharks,” says our cover star Mark Coles Smith of his new film Beast of War, whose passion for the big fish earned him the nickname Marky Sharky as a five-year-old in Broome.

In this edition, we speak to the Nyikina performer about his almost-shark attack, the influence of his grandmother (and Bowie), and his historic Gold Logie nomination for his breakout role as Detective Jay Swan in Mystery Road: Origin. “We both share a sense of justice, triggered by injustice, and it’s easy for me to tap into that quality for both of us on set.”

More highlights in this edition:

• • • We look back on 10 years of Homes for Homes, the social enterprise created by The Big Issue to fund more affordable housing across the country. To date, we’ve helped house 400 people and counting.
    • “You can take your job seriously, but by Christ, don’t take yourself too seriously.” Actor Bryan Brown talks moustaches, The Big Issue and reuniting with director Bruce Beresford in new film The Travellers.
    • Award-winning author Tara June Winch on leaving home to tap into creativity, crossing off her bucket list, and going on book tour with her bub in tow.
    • We chat to the stars of The Paper, the new mockumentary that mines the grim state of publishing for laughs.
    • What’s better than an Iced VoVo? Iced VoVo Mini Cakes, of course. Helen Goh serves up a hit of coconut-rolled nostalgia for Tastes Like Home. Get the recipe here

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