Isabelle Cornish (Abbie‘s kid sister) is one of the breakout stars of the TV remake of Puberty Blues, and maybe more impressively, PETA’s Sexiest Vegetarian of 2013. At 19 her angel-eyed-beach-babe vibes, green smoothie fuelled lifestyle, and tendency to look effortless in jogging gear have made her a model for Australia’s seemingly golden way of life. As she prepares to take on the next stage of her career—aka America—we chatted to her about positive vibes and snakes under the bed.
So, people probably associate you with Sydney’s beaches, but where did you grow up?
My childhood was between my dad’s two hundred acre property in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle where I went to school.
Did you like school?
I really didn’t enjoy school, I left when I was 16 to pursue acting which luckily has worked out so far.
Growing up in the country, did you ride horses, kill snakes, and chase dingos?
I loved to ride horses when I was growing up, but left the snake hunting to my older brothers. I did have a few close calls—one was a brown snake under my bed.
You’re not scared of snakes? What are you scared of?
Running out of food and water, that would be horrible.
Okay, assuming you have food and water, where would you rather live: a tree house in a forest, a shack on the beach, or a dome in the desert?
Tree house in a forest for sure! I’d make a flying fox and have heaps of animal friends.
Do you have any pets now?
Not personally at the moment, but I really want a sphinx kitten.
Has having Abbie move through all this before you influenced your direction?
I think so, it is inspiring seeing talent, and Abbie is such an amazing sister and actress.
You recently road tripped around the States with her. Being a naturist, did you have a favourite national park?
Yosemite is so rad. We camped in the park and roasted marshmallows. The following day we hiked to see the waterfalls.
You seem pretty focused on your emotional, as well as your physical, well being, do you have a motto?
At the moment: lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu.
What does that mean?
May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.
What makes you happy?
Meeting people, adventures, and learning lots of new things.
If you could be wonderful at one thing in the world what would it be?
Dancing, I would love to be a dancer—they are so beautiful to watch.
You’re halfway there.
See more golden glimpses into Australia here
Credits
Text and photography Ryan Kenny
Stylist Paul Bui
Isabelle wears top Miu Miu. Dress Miu Miu. Top Emma Mulholland.