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Pure Souls Pet Aquacremation



Pure Souls Pet Aquacremation:  the innovative eco-friendly farewell for your beloved friend

Long gone are the days when our pets were outsiders and buried in the backyard. Our pets have become an integral part of our family, our therapy friends and our life companions. 

This is why losing our pets is so devastating and only the thought of it makes us feel unwell. Unfortunately going through loss is an inevitable part of owning a pet and knowing your options can mean the difference for when it is time to say goodbye. 

Traditional flame cremation was the preferred option for pet parents to provide a respectful and dignified send off for their pets, however, like in all industries, disruptive new and green technologies are emerging to change the old ways and to provide benefits aligned with today’s challenges.

Pet Aquacremation, aka Alkaline hydrolysis is the latest development in sustainable funeral practices which has been gaining momentum as consumers look for alternative options. Being superior to traditional cremation in every way and using cutting edge technology, this new method promises to be safe and gentle with pets while having a minimal impact on our planet.

How does it work?

Pure Souls uses the latest technology and state of the art equipment to deliver the innovative water cremation process. It mimics the natural process of decomposition at an accelerated rate. 



Combining 95% water, 5% alkali, water flow and below 95°C temperature to reduce organic matter at a molecular level.
 “The results are similar to traditional cremation but without the carbon footprint.” 
After the process, the inorganic part of the bones remains to then be dried and powdered to pure white thin ashes. The liquid resultant from the process is a nutrient rich fertiliser that can be used or discharged to sewer.

Pet cremation with a purpose

Forward thinking and corporate responsibility is what has driven this Brisbane based company Pure Souls, to become Australia’s first and only Carbon neutral pet crematorium. 

It is about bringing compassion back into the pet cremation services with a conscious approach to environmental impact.




Their headquarters in Virginia, Brisbane, run 100% on clean renewable solar energy and their method claims to produce no greenhouse gases or toxic pollutants and be energy and water efficient. 

“We are leading the change in our industry, and we are leading responsibly. Our technology is the future of pet cremation as we move away from fossil fuel dependant equipment and embrace renewables for a greener future” said Giacomo Pareja, founder and director of Pure Souls Pet Aquacremation

Businesses and consumers switching to renewables is to be expected in this time in which climate change and awareness of the environment is such a big part of everyday discourse and government policy.

A service that cares for pets, people and the planet

A comprehensive service that understands and celebrates the connection with all living creatures and mother nature, is what guides the Pure Souls team to professionally care for all pets with compassion, love and gentle hands. 

As they help pets in their last journey crossing the rainbow bridge, pet parents are also cared for with a stress free door to door service that is fast, efficient and reliable, sending updates every step of the way and offering counselling support to those in need. 

This company not only has raised the bar when it comes to a personalised professional service, they also honour pet’s life on earth and positively contribute to a better future by partnering with renowned reforestation project managers to plant a living memorial tree for every pet left to their care. Imagine the impact if we were to plant a tree for every pet we have had …
The power is in our hands.

Unique memorials and cost of the service




Following a sustainable business model, Pure Souls offers unique handcrafted urns and memorials made of biodegradable and renewable materials like clay and bamboo, purposely designed to safely keep your precious pet remains and to look beautiful and match any décor.

Surprisingly, being an environmentally friendly service with so many added benefits, the price of aquacremation is very reasonable, matching the prices of the counterpart flame cremation. 

Pure Souls offers three packages starting at $250, the service fee depends on the pet weight which allows pet parents to pay the rate that is right for them and give them a range of options to choose from.

Aquacremation is definitely the choice for the eco-conscious pet parents out there.

Location: 7/62 Radley St, Virginia, Brisbane 4014

Phone: (07) 3519 4990


MEDIA RELEASE, 29th December 2021

Prepping Pets for New Year's Eve celebrations


While loud parties and fireworks are fun for pet parents on New Year’s Eve, they can be quite frightening for our furry friends.

On average, approximately 23 per cent of pets are fearful of noises [1], particularly those that are loud, sudden and high pitched.

Affected pets can react very differently, with responses ranging from excessive panting, hiding, attempting to escape, to destructiveness and self injury. PETstock VET Dr Sasha Nefedova has compiled a list of tips to keep your pet safe and calm this New Year’s Eve.

#1. Exercise


Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise, whether it be a long walk, run or trip to the dog park, before the New Year’s Eve celebrations begin. 
Just like humans, dogs receive endorphins after exercise, allowing them to feel a natural high and be happy. 

Even better, allowing your dog to run freely, socialise and interact with other dogs at the park can further decrease feelings of anxiety. 

On New Year’s Eve, a well exercised, calm dog is less likely to engage in anxious behaviours such as barking or chewing at the furniture.


#2. Housekeeping

Before the New Year's festivities begin, there’s a number of precautions we can take to protect pets within the home. 

It’s a great idea to keep all windows and curtains closed, to minimise the impact that fireworks can have on pets.

Animals, such as rabbits, who are usually kept outdoors should be brought into the home or some other quiet, enclosed space such as the garden shed on New Year’s Eve. 

When it becomes dark, ensure cats are kept indoors and have access to as many hiding places as possible. This means you should open doors to rooms that your cat wouldn’t normally have access to.

#3. Microchip

Dogs are more likely to escape on nights like New Year’s Eve in response to loud noises, large crowds of people, unfamiliar surroundings and a change to their normal routine. Under these unusual circumstances, your pet may get frightened and attempt to run away or hide as a result. 

In the case that your furry friend does make a break for it, make sure they are microchipped or update any new details on the microchip registry, and ensure they’re wearing an ID tag so that they can be easily returned.


#4. Music therapy

Not only can music reduce the anxiety levels of pets, but it can also help them to better cope with other psychological triggers such as loud noises or fireworks. Alike to humans, music sends soundwaves that are processed by your pet’s brain which can cause them to react in a variety of different ways. 

For instance, loud and sudden noises can incite an increase in adrenalin, while repetitive and gentler sounds will often relax their nervous system.

To sooth your dog’s nerves, try leaving on a calming playlist or DOGTV’s relaxation program which features music that is scientifically designed to support the anxiety that our pets can experience.

Monthly and annual subscriptions to DOGTV are available exclusively at PETstock stores or online here.  

#5. A Calming accessory

A Thundershirt is an anti-anxiety weighted coat for dogs, that can help to calm their nerves if they are feeling anxious, overexcited or fearful, in response to the loud noises and bright lights of New Year’s Eve. 

The gentle, constant pressure of a Thundershirt has a calming affect on a dog’s nervous system and is a safe and drug free solution to help combat your dog’s anxiety.

PETstock’s top calming accessory: Thundershirt - Anti Anxiety Shirt for Dogs RRP: $69.99



#6. Toys

If you’re heading out on New Year’s Eve, consider leaving your pet with a new enrichment toy or food puzzle. 

Giving your dog, cat or rabbit a ‘job’ to do will keep them mentally stimulated, offer a sense of comfort and help manage their anxiety or boredom.

However, it’s important that you identify the cause of their anxiety so you’re not at risk of reinforcing the issue.





Related Topics:



Guide Dogs Victoria 2021 Graduation Day



Guide Dogs celebrates Graduation Day by recognising the ‘supPAWt’ provided by the class of 2021

Guide Dogs Victoria is celebrating its annual Graduation Day by honouring the fantastic support provided by all dogs that graduated this year, not just those selected for the namesake occupation.

In total 64 dogs graduated as part of Guide Dogs Victoria’s class of 2021, all going on to make a positive impact in the lives of Australians. While many have become life changing Guide Dogs, providing freedom and independence to people with low vision or blindness, others have taken on just as important roles as Therapy Dogs, Assistance Dogs, Ambassador Dogs or Breeding Dogs that will help produce the next generation.

Therapy Dogs have returned to Manly courthouse one day per week as part of the Canine Court Companion Program (CCCP)!



 
In particular, all dogs that graduated through Guide Dogs Victoria’s training program have played a crucial role in providing individuals with comfort, emotional support and companionship through what has been a challenging year for so many.

Guide Dogs Client Rob Fletcher, who has Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy was recently paired with his Guide Dog Hamish and agrees that the support and companionship he has provided throughout the last year is unparalleled.

“Life has been so much easier since receiving Hamish even during lockdown when we just travelled within the local area, I could name a location and Hamish would get me there safely. The locals all love Hamish too, he’s brought a smile to a lot of people’s faces during the pandemic, in fact neighbours often say hi to him and not me now! I feel very safe and independent with Hamish by my side.”

“As we approach the end of another difficult year, we are so proud of all our graduating dogs who continue to make an extraordinary contribution to those living with low vision and blindness, especially during the tougher months in lockdown,” said Karen Hayes, CEO of Guide Dogs Victoria.


“This year we are also recognising the fantastic organisations we have partnered with to maximise the support we can offer to the community – organisations like Integra Service Dogs Australia, Ms Hayes said.

Thirteen dogs trained by Guide Dogs Victoria have gone on to become Assistance Dogs provided through Integra, and carefully matched with a Veteran or First Responders suffering from PTSD.

“Through Integra’s collaborative partnership with Guide Dogs, these recruited dogs provide unconditional support through the trauma and stresses of everyday life," said Ben Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of Integra Service Dogs Australia.

“Especially during the past few years which have been uncertain, unfamiliar and posed a whole new set of challenges to our Clients. We have seen an increase in graduating dogs join us from Guide Dogs this year because of the unparalleled assistance they provide throughout these times.”


Integra Client and former Army Officer Vanessa agrees that the support provided by her reclassified dog Baz has had a life-changing impact since they have been matched.

“In 2021 I was fortunate to be paired with Baz and he has completely changed my world. I will retire from the Army this month after 24 rewarding yet demanding years in service, and phasing into retirement with Baz just feels so much easier as he completely understands my mental limitations," she said.

“Leaving the Army is more than just taking off the uniform–it’s a complete loss of identity, Baz has given me back structure, routine, and sense of purpose again and most importantly unconditional love and companionship. Going into the next stage of life especially during already uncertain times, seem much more achievable with Baz by my side.”

It takes $50,000 to breed, raise and train just one Guide Dog. For more information on how you can support Guide Dogs Victoria’s vital work, visit www.guidedogs.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE, 16th December 2021

Keeping Furry Friends Safe during the Festive Season



The emergency department at Sydney’s Small Animal Specialist Hospital is prepping for a busy festive season, with an increase in holiday-related incidents expected over the Christmas break.

The team at SASH are urging all pet owners to take extra care over Christmas in a bid to avoid unnecessary vet visits, particularly when it comes to taking your furry friends on holidays or giving them special holiday treats.

Dr Tim Hopkins, Emergency and Critical Care Vet at SASH, says that holiday incidents are easily avoidable and there are plenty of things pet owners can do to make the holidays just as enjoyable for their pets.

“Lots of people are travelling with their pets during this time, so it’s important to consider what it’s going to be like for your pet there,” he said.

“If you’re heading up to Noosa for example, you might not have given your pet tick prevention treatment which they’ll need heading into tick territory especially.”

The team at SASH recently helped a 9-year-old Beagle, Charlie - who swallowed over 600 grams of chocolate, plus the wrappers.

“Most people know how dangerous chocolate can be for dogs, but it’s just as important to look out for the wrappers and other packaging that pets can ingest, so your Christmas morning of opening presents isn’t derailed by a trip to the emergency vet,” said Dr Hopkins.

And if you notice some rum balls missing or your pet has taken a sizeable chomp from the fruitcake, the Animal Poisons Helpline is available 7-days a week for free advice.


Dr Adi Frisch, Poisons Information Specialist from the Animal Poisons Helpline says the service often gets calls relating to alcohol, chocolate, BBQ meats and even poinsettias, but it is also important for things like rat, ant and cockroach poisons to be kept well clear of pets.

“If something does happen, the best thing to do is to call the helpline to check if you should be worried and get a full risk assessment in order to make the decision if you should be taking your animal to the vet,” she said.

The festive season also means fireworks, which can place dogs under a lot of stress, however Dr Hopkins says that pet owners can make their dogs feel more comfortable in the lead up to New Year’s Eve by slowly desensitising them with firework sounds over the course of a few weeks.

“It takes a bit of time but playing fireworks sounds at a very low-level during mealtime and slowly increasing the volume over time, can be much more effective than medication and can solve some noise phobias for good.”

Dr Tim also warns that some of the sedative drugs given to help dogs with firework anxiety can do more harm than good, with some actually making pets more sensitive to noise and cause them even greater distress.

“If you give your dog medication to calm them when the fireworks are already on, it’s too late. Start slowly desensitising your dog, with a veterinary behaviourist ideally, so that by the time New Year’s has rolled around, it’s just a normal day,” he said.

In an Australian summer, it is also important to make sure your pet is comfortable during the hot weather and is well hydrated. It’s recommended to avoid walking dogs in the heat of the day and make sure there’s plenty of water available.

This year, SASH opened a brand-new Emergency and Critical care unit which is open 24 hours, 7 days a week for walk ins so while pet owners can do their best to prepare for the holiday season, they can rest easy knowing there are services available over this time.

To learn more about SASH, visit www.sashvets.com or contact (02) 9199 7250.

 MEDIA RELEASE, 16th December 2021


Related Topics:

8 Tips to Keep Pets Cool and Hydrated

Getting Dogs through Noise Phobia

Summertime safety: tips for a safe holiday season with your dog

The Best Dog Products for Summer 2021


On extreme hot days, it is vital that your dogs have constant access to both fresh water and shade as heat stress can develop extremely quickly. Whenever possible, allow your pets to stay inside the house and share the air conditioning or electric fans.

Of course, NEVER leave your dog in a hot car - even with the windows down - as heat stress and death can occur within 6 minutes.

There are many ways to help your dog survive these hot days and make the most of our summer days. Here is our pick of dog summer accessories that will take your dog through the summer months in comfort and style.




Shedding only gets you so far. When the real heat rolls around, your dog is housebound, while you get to go out and have all the fun. Until now. 

The Core Cooling Vest from Kurgo is the answer to wearing a fur coat you can never really take off. Simply wet the vest with cool water, wring it out, and strap it on. 

As the water evaporates, it takes your dog’s body heat with it, keeping him fresh and comfy. Re-wet as many times as is necessary to make it to the end of the outing. Available in 4 sizes.

RRP: $94.98 at www.petcircle.com.au






The Pagoda Pet Fountain from PetSafe has two free-falling water streams that encourage your cat or dog to drink more water. Free-falling streams add more oxygen to the water and keep it fresh for your pet. 

An activated charcoal filter removes bad tastes and odours from your pet’s water and the foam filter helps catch pet hair and other debris to keep the water clean. 

This fountain holds 2 litres of water and the elevated, upper bowl is great for senior pets, so they won’t need to bend as low to drink. 

When it’s time to clean your fountain, simply place the fountain in the top rack of your dishwasher and hand-wash the pump. 

RRP: 
$180.59. Available at PetSafe® Australia



Everyone understands how important it is to stay hydrated in summer and it's no different with our dogs as dehydration can lead to urinary and kidney diseases.

Pawstralia
Dog Travel Water Bottle is a perfect companion for your daily dog walks or adventures. Its compact size means you can easily carry it in your hand using the strap, a walking bag or even in the side pocket of your jacket.

Many of us are worried about using the communal dog water stations which are not clean or hygienic and often a place where dogs catch diseases. 

Carrying your own bottle is a perfect solution to this, even if you run out of water and need to refill from the water fountain. Its activated charcoal filter helps to filter impurities and chlorine so you know your pup is getting cleaner and healthier water all the time.

Price: $29.99 special offer (available in 4 colours) from www.pawstralia.com.au


Dog Pools Australia pools are mostly designed with big dogs in mind. But their paw shaped pools are proving to be a bit hit with small dogs this Spring.

The Paw Pool is the little brother of the huge, durable bone shaped pool you may have seen. Made in the USA by One Dog One Bone, these pools are available from Dog Pools Australia, their exclusive Aussie distributor.

The paw pools are not only gorgeous (available in blue, white, sand and grey), they are UV resistant and designed to last and last. 

Best suited to small breeds, the pools will keep your dog cool and provide a great source of entertainment. Your dog will be the envy of all the dogs in the street this summer!

Dimensions are 99cm x 96.5cm x 15cm. Holds 76L of water.

RRP: $165.00 (plus shipping) at www.dogpools.com.au



Get ready for a summer filled with wet, water fun! 

This super-absorbent Dog Swim Robes by Stylish Hound makes use of microfibre technology, allowing the fabric to dry soon after it has been made wet. 

Its wrap-around design suits a variety of dog shapes and sizes, and you can choose from 6 stylish designs that also match their dog swim jackets.

Save your car from those wet dog smells after a trip to the beach, or your floors after that dreaded bath time! 

Available in 4 sizes (XS to Large).

RRP: from $47.99 at stylish-hound.com



The new soft, flexible Waterproof Jelly Dog Collar from Style Hound is perfect for those summer beach days and adventures with your dog or just for the everyday rough and tumble. 

Drag it through water, mud and anything else you can imagine, and then just wipe it clean and dry! Made of PVC coated webbing it has the soft look and feel of leather in a gorgeous range of jelly bean colours with matt black hardware and matching leads – fun and funky for any adventure.

This strong and durable range is 100% waterproof so it won't stretch or fade. It is also bacteria, odour, strain and abrasion resistant. It wipes clean and dries instantly!

RRP: from $38.00 (save 10% off a collar & lead combo) at stylehound.com.au




Australian designed and approved, this Duoetto MK2 Dual Voltage Water Heater allows RV and boating enthusiasts and family travellers alike – including their pets – to splash and roll about wherever they like, when they like. 

It can be fitted into an RV, caravan, yacht or powered boat or even a work vehicle or a 4wd if you like heading out to remote places, yet maintain optimum cleanliness and comfort during your travels.

The tough, compact and durable water heater from Aus J Hot Water Solutions offers selectable temperatures between 30-75ºC (86-167ºF) on 240v and up to 70°C (158ºF) on 12v so people with pets can shower, wash, clean and enjoy abundant hot water (10L) whether mains power is available or not.

For a limited time only, you can win a Duoetto MK2 Digital Water Heater plus EZY RV Exterior Shower Outlet (prize valued at $694). Visit our Competitions page for details.

RRP: $425.00 from ausj.com.au




Photo credit: @maiathecavoodle
The Sandy Snoots Wild Flower Dog Beachwear and Beach Towel Bundle is everything your dog needs to be stylish and sun safe this summer.


Featuring independently certified UPF 50+ beachwear (they're serious about sun protection!) and a matching microfibre beach towel, this summer bundle is perfect for dogs who love the sun, surf and sand.

Sandy Snoots premium products are Aussie made for Aussie dogs. Their stylish and eco-friendly beachwear is made to move from 
Repreve® Polyester, the world's leading recycled fibre.

Adventure is calling. Enjoy carefree fun in the sun with Sandy Snoots this summer!

RRP: $139.00 at www.sandysnoots.com.au
"The human world, it's a mess... Life under the sea is better than anything they got up there!"





This Magic Sea Dog Shirt by Vibrant Hound will transport you back to your tropical holiday vacation, where time was spent snorkelling under the sea!

This print featuring ocean creatures is uniquely designed by Vibrant Hound.

All their dog shirts are made with a high grade cotton blend designed to be lightweight and deliver plenty of stretch and durability. Great outdoors to keep the sun off and comfortable enough to be worn as pyjamas!

The front of the shirt is taken up higher so they don’t need to be removed for night-time toilet stops. Available in 5 sizes (from XS to XL).

RRP: from $27.95
at vibranthound.com




Designed in Australia, DGG’s The Big Kahuna Jungle Hawaiian Dog Shirt available at PETstock will ensure every dog is looking the part at the beach this summer.


Featuring breathable stretch fabric and a superior fit, the shirt is made from an easy wash material that won’t inhibit your pets. natural movement or toileting and will protect their skin from the Aussie sun.

Available in sizes from Extra Small to Large.


RRP: $24.99 from www.petstock.com.au



In the hot summer months surfaces such as asphalt roads, concrete and play areas get very hot! You should avoid walking your dog in the heat of the day not to cause damage or discomfort to your dog’s paws.

The Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots set the standard in paw wear for dogs who love to explore the great outdoors with their humans.

A strong, non-marking Vibram sole offers paw protection on rough or sharp surfaces. They are particularly recommended if your dog has to walk on hot or cold surfaces like bitumen, metal, concrete or even light snow.

Also great for injured paws, use on boats and slippery surfaces (they give senior dogs more stability when walking on tiles or wooden floors). An adjustable closure strap ensures a customised fit. A tightly woven air mesh keeps dirt and debris out while providing superior ventilation. Did you know that most dogs have wider front feet than back feet? That's why these dog boots are sold in pairs.

Available in 3 colours: Blue Spring, 
Red Currant, Black Obsidian and in 8 sizes.

RRP: $72.95 (2-pack) at www.dogculture.com.au


Made in the USA, this bright and colourful range of fetch toys are made from 
DOOG’s unique new rubber formula that is not only puncture-resistant but also soft and supple on dogs’ teeth and gums. 

The Fetchables have been designed for dogs that play hard and can withstand rough play on land and in water. The bright colours are easy to spot at the dog park and in the water.

The Fetchables collection includes a frisbee, a high bounce ball, and a tug ball complete with marine- grade rope. They are BPA and phthalate-free.

RRP: from $16.99 from www.doog.com.au and all good pet retailers.



The Rogz RFO Frisbee is a special dog frisbee made from SST-Foam. This stands for Soft Safe Technology because the material used is durable but soft so it doesn't damage your dog's teeth and gums.

It is incredibly lightweight making it easy to throw and the snout holes mean it's easy for your pooch to pick up off the ground. The bright colours make the Frisbee easy to spot. It will float on water for fun at the beach or lake.


Please note this is neither a chew toy or a tug toy and your dog should be supervised at all times when playing.

Size: 23cm. Available in Lime, Blue and Pink.

RRP: $16.79 from 
Habitat Pet Supplies





The Shady Paws® Pet Shade provides a safe and secure place out of the sun for your pet, whilst being able to enjoy the outdoors with you. 

Simple to use, it sets up in a matter of seconds! It is also light, compact, easy to carry and you can personalise it with your pet’s name. 

Also included are two galvanised pegs to secure it, a collapsible water bowl and a convenient shoulder strap to make carrying easy. 

Keep your furriends safe and out of the sun this summer!


RRP: $109.00 (includes shipping) at shadypaws.com.au





A soft barrier cream that is so easy to apply, NRG Doggie Pink Noze stays on for days. Your dog will quickly accept the scent free application and due to its absorbing quality, you do not need to apply daily.

NRG Doggie Pink Noze is a natural, shield cream for dogs with pink and white sensitive skin areas. Developed specifically for hot, dry and windy Australian conditions, Doggie Pink Noze contains Vitamin E and natural oils, with no harmful chemicals.

Simply apply to sensitive skin areas around the nose, eyes, head, ears or where necessary. NRG Doggie Pink Noze can last for several days and does not need washing off.

RRP: $13.75 (90g) from nrgteam.com.au




These Tail Up Baseball Caps are cute and stylish. They also provide a great way to keep the sun out of your pup's eyes and off their heads.

The visor part of the hat can also be helpful for dogs existing eye problems as offering some protection from the sun.

Made of cotton canvas material with two holes for the ears and adjustable fastener strap under the chin, these hats are easy to quickly put on your dog's head.

Available in 3 sizes (Small to Large).

RRP: $14.95 from www.peticular.com.au




The Tips & Toes Balm by The Happy Jack Co. is an ultra-hydrating 2-in-1 nose and paw balm to help to soothe the nose and pamper the paws.


Safe to lick and Australian-made using only 100% premium natural and organic ingredients, it contains natural anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory ingredients.

It will soften, moisturise and nourish your dogs' painful, dry, cracked or calloused paws or nose or dry skin around the lips and ears. It is also ideal to use as a preventative measure all year round.

RRP: $19.50 at thehappyjackco.com



Hugo’s Ice Creamery is a small Brisbane-based company created by dog lovers for dog lovers! 

These single serve dog-friendly ice creams are not only a delicious and special treat, they also help keep them cool on a hot summer’s day.

Natural, human-grade ingredients are used to create a healthy and delicious frozen treat for your pup! With most dogs being lactose intolerant, this ice cream uses coconut milk which is great for your dog’s health. To get that creamy texture, they substituted sugar with naturally occurring organic coconut nectar.

There are 4 delicious flavours to choose from: Carob, Strawberry, Peanut Butter & Bacon, Pumpkin & Chia.

Hugo’s Doggie Ice Cream is available in dog-friendly cafes and bars, pet stores, health food stores, groomers.

RRP: $6.95 (single serve) at hugosicecreamery.com.au