The Camberwell Citizen - Issue #18

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C A M B E R W E L L

CITIZEN YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING LOCAL

WORKPLACE OF THE FUTURE Find out why the demand for co‑working spaces is soaring

S U P E R H E A LT H Y S E E D S Discover the health benefits of seeds – nature’s superfoods

HOT SUMMER READS Your guide to the best books of the season

P L U S C ATC H U P O N W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G I N CAMBERWELL JUNCTION

ISSUE #18

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Find yourself at Burke Road and the Junction Over 400 shops including your favourite chains and boutiques, cafés and restaurants, the iconic Rivoli Cinema and markets.

Want to know what’s happening at the Junction?

Visit our website for the latest special offers, events, competitions, news and more!

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THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #18 • 3

CONTENTS 4 • WORKPLACE OF THE FUTURE

Co-working spaces have evolved into sophisticated working environments – and demand is soaring.

Find out why.

6 • SUPER HEALTHY SEEDS

Seeds are one of nature’s superfoods – they’re rich in protein, fibre, minerals and vitamins. Here’s how to include them in your diet.

8 • HOUSE PRICES DOWN BUT DEMAND STILL STRONG

Following a year of interest rate hikes and changes in the property market, we ask real estate experts about what lies ahead.

9 • HOT SUMMER READS

From prize-winning authors to thrilling page‑turners, here are the books to take to the beach, park or pool this summer.

10 • CAMBERWELL CATCH-UP

Catch up on what’s been happening in the Camberwell Junction precinct.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Co-working spaces, where workers from different companies share a workspace, are nothing new. But these spaces have evolved into sophisticated working environments that offer the ultimate flexibility for both corporate employees and individuals – and demand is soaring. Find out why in Workplace of the future.

Despite house prices dropping in the past year, Camberwell remains a strong suburb with demand expected to increase in the months ahead. We speak to local real estate experts to get an insight into property trends for the coming months. Read all about it in House prices down but demand still strong.

With the summer season ahead, many of us are thinking about healthy eating. Seeds are one of nature’s superfoods – they’re rich in protein, fibre, healthy fats, minerals and vitamins. We share how you can incorporate them into your diet in Super healthy seeds.

It wouldn’t be a perfect summer without a good book, and we’ve got some recommendations in Hot summer reads. From prize‑winning authors to thrilling page-turners, these books are ideal to take to the beach, park or pool this summer.

And let’s not forget about our local shops – the heart of our community. Camberwell Junction has plenty on offer over the Christmas and summer season, including some fun events, so be sure to make the most of it. Camberwell Catch-up shares the latest news.

Happy reading!

Sharon Green Editor

EDITOR Sharon Green

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Steve de Niese JOURNALIST Seanna Cronin

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WORKPLACE OF THE FUTURE Co-working spaces have evolved into sophisticated working environments that offer flexibility and benefits – and demand is soaring.

Eclat offers a stylish co-working space

The way Australians work is changing dramatically, and so too must our workplaces.

An increase in flexible working and operating arrangements is driving demand for co-working spaces, professional hubs where workers from different companies share an office space.

These casual environment offices are no longer just the domain of free-spirited freelancers and start-ups, with corporate companies recognising the social and commercial benefits.

As more Aussies turn to co-working spaces as an alternative to working from home, the sector is tipped for major growth in the next five years.

“However, the recent surge in demand for co-working spaces can be attributed to businesses transitioning away from traditional commercial leases in favour of the flexibility and convenience provided by a network of co-working spaces.”

Coworking Mag reports that by the year 2030 about 12 per cent of all the commercial spaces in Australia will turn into co‑working zones.

Last year, Mordor Intelligence valued Australia’s co-working office spaces market at USD$1.3 billion and projected the domestic co-working market to have a compound annual growth rate of more than 6.5 per cent in the next five years.

While co-working is not a new concept, the sector has experienced accelerated growth thanks to the pandemic.

RISING DEMAND FOR CO-WORKING According to the Global Coworking Growth Study 2020, an estimated five million people will be based in 40,000 co‑working spaces worldwide by the end of 2024.

There are co-working spaces in every major city around the world. Not surprisingly, the majority of Australia’s co‑working spaces are in Sydney and Melbourne.

“The demand for co-working spaces in Melbourne has consistently grown, primarily driven by businesses recognising the benefits, cost savings and operational efficiencies they offer,” said Robbie Materia, product marketing manager at Waterman Workspaces, which has seven locations across the city including the newest in Camberwell Junction.

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Waterman Workspaces has opened in Camberwell Junction

Nick Maxwell, CEO of Eclat

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“The economy and interest rates, together with the changes to office or work-from-home habits since COVID have led to an increase in the need for smaller office spaces, as well as flexible working spaces,” said Nick Maxwell, CEO of Camberwell’s members-only workspace Eclat.

Mr Maxwell said there has been a shift in who uses these spaces, which started out as hubs for freelancers, start-ups and digital nomads.

“Companies are needing to adapt to their employee needs which means an increase in supporting their flexibility in working from home, as well as areas closer to where they live to save time on travel,” he said.

Co-working facilities also provide the necessities such as a fast internet connection, charging stations, cleaning and security services, admin support, and refreshments like tea and coffee.

“More established co-working spaces offer professional services like administrative support, reception services, mail handling, a business address and even access to personalised support,” Mr Materia said.

“This can enhance your company’s credibility and increase client confidence, especially if you are a small business or start-up.”

“Corporates are also looking for more ‘off-site’ locations to impress their clients and to inspire their team.”

CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY Working from home and conducting meetings virtually was a vital option for many during the pandemic lockdowns.

But the home office comes with its own set of challenges, arguably the biggest of which being social isolation and domestic distractions.

Co-working spaces offer an antidote – a flexible and well-appointed space which gives workers a reason to ditch the pyjamas for a productive day of work.

A C C O R D I N G TO T H E G L O B A L C OWO R K I N G G R OW T H S T U DY 2 0 2 0 , A N E S T I M AT E D F I V E M I L L I O N PEOPLE WILL BE BASED IN 40,000 C O ‑ WO R K I N G S PA C E S WO R L DW I D E

BY THE END OF 2024.

“Using a co-working space can help establish a clear boundary between work and personal life, which can be challenging to maintain when working purely from home,” Mr Materia said.

“This can improve overall work-life balance and prevent burnout.”

Rubbing shoulders with a diverse group of professionals can also lead to collaboration through networking or simply being inspired by another person’s innovative work.

“Our member survey showed that 67 per cent of members have generated new business opportunities because of being at Waterman,” Mr Materia said.

On a personal level, feeling part of a community can boost wellbeing and productivity.

“At Eclat, a membership includes free access to our on-site gym, free weekly events and networking opportunities to support not only their business growth but also their personal growth, and staff who are here to support their needs,” Mr Maxwell said.

“Our members don’t feel that they have rented a room, they feel they belong to something. For example, every Thursday evening we have a members’ event with food, drinks and a great guest speaker.”

A MODERN WAY TO WORK As competition ramps up in the co-working space, operators need to offer more than just a hot desk and Wi-Fi. Co-working spaces have evolved into sophisticated working environments to meet the needs of both corporate and independent clients.

For a CEO who travels a lot for work, it might be the need for a private meeting room wherever their business takes them.

“We have hospitality infused bureaus (offices) and meeting rooms with all technology needs met and exceeded,” Mr Maxwell said.

For an employee, it might be the need to work close to home on the days they are not commuting to the office.

“There is also the environmental impact to consider. As we near the end of this summer, it will be apparent that the cost of utilities and running an air conditioner all day, when working from home, could exceed the cost of a standard co-working membership,” Mr Materia said.

Eclat is Camberwell’s members-only workspace

ECLAT 141 Camberwell Rd, Camberwell eclat.com

For a company, it might be the flexibility of renting as much or as little space as is required at the time.

“These spaces can accommodate project teams, remote workers, or serve as temporary offices during expansions or renovations,” Mr Materia said.

“This flexibility eliminates the need to commit to long-term leases, relieving businesses from costly office fit-outs and substantial bank guarantees. Consequently, it frees up cash flow for essential business investments.”

WATERMAN WORKSPACES Camberwell Place, 793 Burke Rd, Camberwell waterman.com.au/locations/camberwell

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SUPER H E A LT H Y SEEDS Seeds are one of nature’s superfoods – they’re rich in protein, fibre, healthy fats, minerals and vitamins. Here’s how you can incorporate them into your diet.

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CHIA SEEDS

FLAXSEEDS

HEMP SEEDS

These tiny seeds are rich in protein, antioxidants and omega-3 fats, which makes them effective at lowering blood sugar, reducing risk factors for heart disease and supporting bone health. Chia seeds can be mixed in juices, yoghurt and milks to create a filling pudding, or used as a topping for oats or rice. Their ability to absorb water also makes chia seeds a great binding agent.

Also known as linseeds, flaxseeds are an excellent source of fibre, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and lignans. Because their skin is difficult to digest, it’s best to eat ground flaxseeds. To keep flaxseed meal fresh, store it in the fridge or freezer. Flaxseed meal can be added to smoothies, porridge, muesli, soups and baked goods, or used as a substitute for breadcrumbs or a thickening agent.

It’s worth giving these lesser known seeds a go.

Hemp seeds contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source and one of the most nutrient-dense seeds. Their mild, nutty flavour makes them a tasty addition to rice, salads and vegetable fritters. They also work well in baked goods and hemp protein powder can be used as a plant-based alternative to whey protein

PUMPKIN SEEDS

SESAME SEEDS

SUNFLOWER SEEDS

One of the most commonly consumed seeds, pumpkin seeds are packed with phosphorus and healthy fats, which help to improve heart health. Pepitas are the shell-less variety often found in muesli. Enjoy them as a crunchy topping, or as a stand-alone snack when roasted with olive oil, salt and your choice of seasoning.

Pumpkin seeds are also an affordable substitute to pine nuts when making pesto.

Available in black and white varieties, sesame seeds are a staple in both Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. The seeds are a great source of lignans and may also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. You’ve probably consumed sesame seeds in tahini, the nutty paste used in hummus, but they can also be used in baking, smoothies, and as a topper for stir-fries and avocado on toast.

Sunflower seeds are known for their anti‑inflammatory benefits thanks to their high levels of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. They are also high in protein, making them a filling snack. Enjoy them salted or honey‑roasted, or in a couscous salad. Sunflower butter is also used as a nut-free alternative to peanut butter. If you buy the seeds with shells, make sure you remove them before eating them.

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HOUSE PRICES DOWN BUT DEMAND STILL STRONG Despite house prices dropping in the past year, Camberwell remains a strong suburb with demand expected to increase in the months ahead.

Dynamic economic and residential property market conditions are keeping both local buyers and sellers on their toes.

While median rent and sale prices in Camberwell are still well above metro Melbourne averages, there was a significant drop in the number of property listings last quarter.

“In terms of the total number of properties being on the market, we’ve seen a huge drop of 30 per cent, and in some areas 50 per cent, in terms of the total amount of listings,” said Janssen Xiang, director and auctioneer at First National Real Estate Camberwell.

“Given the number of listings are down dramatically, we’ve seen a lot of buyers out there with the intention of buying something that is not overly priced.”

In the June quarter, Camberwell’s clearance rate of 74.6 per cent was below the metro average of 78.1 per cent, according to REIV. “I do think it’s a good time to buy, but I do see a lot of pass-ins too… but why some of the auctions are not selling is hard to gauge,” Mr Xiang said.

“Nice homes are selling really well. Anything that needs a rebuild or subdivision as an investment seems to be pretty slow.

“Cost of living and labour costs have gone through the roof. A lot of people are scared about renovating homes or rebuilding because the cost has gone up since COVID. Banks are not lending on these modifications, so you may as well borrow from the bank and buy something someone has already done up.”

Mike McNamara, director of Strategic Buyers Agents and Strategic Vendor Advocates, points out that house prices in Camberwell have still seen modest but continuing growth since March and on average, houses spend just 26 days on market.

He said buyers primarily invest in Camberwell for long-term capital growth, rather than rental income.

“With Camberwell being just 5.8 square kilometres, including land devoted to its 24 parks, there is only so much land available for non-strata housing,” he said.

“This limited area puts upward pressure on land values, which is the larger component in Camberwell home values.”

Unit prices haven’t fared as well, dropping 6.8 per cent in the June quarter with a medium sale price of $755,000. According to realestate.com.au,

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unit prices in Camberwell are down 8.2 per cent on last year.

This may be due, in part, to a decline in housing demand driven by pandemic lockdowns and border closures. According to ABS data, Boroondara’s population shrank by 9200 people from late 2019 to late 2022.

However, as locals and international residents return, the demand for housing is expected to increase.

According to CoreLogic, each of the major banks is now forecasting a decline in the cash rate in 2024. That could increase demand from housing investors, which would add to rental supply.

“That would give a bit of confidence to the market in terms of buying or selling, considering housing affordability has dropped to a new low nationwide,” Mr Xiang said.

While the worst of the interest rates hikes may be over for mortgage holders, cost-of-living pressures are still impacting most household budgets.

“The financial market is still too dynamic for us to predict what’s going to be happening in the next month,” Mr Xiang said.

“It’s been a rollercoaster since COVID, whereas previous years were more predictable.”

Mr McNamara believes lending conditions should improve for borrowers, which would put upwards pressure on property prices.

“Following the stabilisation of mortgage rates, and the 500,000-plus ‘catch up’ increase of Australia’s population this year, the prospect of modest reductions in loan rates in early 2024 should continue to drive house price growth,” he said.

FAR LEFT: Janssen Xiang, director at First National Real Estate Camberwell LEFT: Mike McNamara, buyer’s agent at Strategic Buyers Agents

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HOT SUMMER READS From prize-winning authors to thrilling page-turners, here are the books to take to the beach, park or pool this summer.

THE WOMAN IN ME

By Britney Spears

GOOD MATERIAL

By Dolly Alderton

In June 2021, the world listened as music icon Britney Spears spoke in open court. The impact of sharing her truth changed the course of her life, and the lives of others. Written with candour and humour, Spears’ book reveals the enduring power of music and love – and the importance of a woman telling her own story, on her own terms.

In this sharply funny and relatable story from the bestselling author of Ghosts, Andy loves Jen and he can’t work out why she stopped loving him. Set adrift on the sea of heartbreak, Andy clings to the idea of solving the puzzle of their broken relationship. Because if he can find the answer to that, maybe Jen can find her way back to him. Andy still has a lot to learn, not least his ex-girlfriend’s side of the story.

LOLA IN THE MIRROR

By Trent Dalton Acclaimed Boy Swallows Universe author Trent Dalton returns with a big-hearted story about love, fate, life and death. A girl and her mother have been on the run for 16 years. The girl has no name because names are dangerous when you’re on the run. She dreams of a life as an artist, but first she must look in the mirror.

TELL HER SHE’S DREAMIN’

By Simone Amelia Jordan Simone Amelia Jordan shares her story of growing up as a Lebanese-Cypriot girl on the whitewashed Central Coast in the 1980s to becoming Australia’s most successful hip-hop journalist. Her personal memoir disrupts the long-held view that women, and racially diverse women especially, are limited in their power as bold explorers. Her story is about defying the odds to reach your dreams.

MY WREXHAM STORY

By Paul Mullin In 2021, Paul Mullin sent shockwaves through the EFL by taking a downwards move to National League team Wrexham AFC. Since then, Mullin has helped transform the Wrexham team, capturing the imaginations of fans across the world. In his autobiography, he recounts his roots in Liverpool, the highs and lows of soccer, and lessons learnt from his son’s autism diagnosis.

The online publication for smart, savvy women who are forging their own path shedef ined.com.au

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Don’t risk late online orders

CAMBERWELL C ATC H - U P There has been plenty of activity taking place in Camberwell Junction in recent months and lots in store for the coming weeks.

While we all love the convenience of shopping on the internet from the comfort of the couch, don’t risk presents arriving late due to delayed online orders.

One way to avoid the risk of Christmas presents turning up late is to get them in person in Camberwell Junction.

You’ll be guaranteed to have the gifts on hand and ready to give to their recipients come the merry day.

Shop local, support local Perhaps one of the best reasons to choose Camberwell Junction for your Christmas shopping is to support local businesses.

By purchasing your Christmas turkey or your table decorations or your mum’s Christmas gift from local retailers, you’re keeping the local community afloat and interacting with retailers who own the shops they work in. And you can be assured of a much more personal and friendly shopping experience.

This Christmas, show your local shops in Camberwell Junction some love.

FAREWELL DYMOCKS CAMBERWELL

JOIN US AT OUR CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAY – DECEMBER 9 You’re invited to join us for Camberwell Junction’s annual Christmas Family Day on Saturday, December 9.

The precinct will offer a range of entertainment including photos with Santa, live music, roving circus acts, face painting, Christmas crafts and more. Visitors will also have the chance to participate in our popular annual competition Where’s Rudolph? for a chance to win a $500 Camberwell Junction gift card.

Our Christmas Family Day is put on by local traders as a way to say thank you to the community for their support throughout the year.

The day offers a great opportunity for you to get your Christmas shopping done while enjoying the festive activities on offer in Camberwell Junction.

Full details at camberwellshopping.com.au

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SHOPS THIS CHRISTMAS Camberwell Junction is your go-to destination for Christmas shopping this year.

Be sure to show your local shops some love this festive season.

Avoid the hassle of big shopping malls Forget circling around stadium-sized car parks and fighting for a space, then having to trudge through crowded shopping malls. Instead, keep your dollar local and embrace pleasant open-air street shopping in Camberwell Junction.

With more than 400 stores, if there’s something on your Christmas list, Camberwell Junction has got it covered.

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Beloved bookshop Dymocks Camberwell closed in late September after more than 20 years of operation in the Camberwell Junction precinct. The family‑owned business was well loved in the area and played an integral role in the local retail and business community. The Camberwell Traders’ Association would like to thank Henk, Roxanne, Kat and the Dymocks Camberwell team for their many years of commitment and service. We wish them continued success with their Tooronga store.

WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE JUNCTION? ACCESS LATEST OFFERS AND NEWS Once a month we send out an email newsletter that shares latest offers, competitions, local news and ‘Meet a Trader’ stories. It’s a great way to stay up to date on everything happening in Camberwell Junction. Sign up at camberwellshopping.com.au

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SHOP SPOTLIGHT Highlights and happenings in the Camberwell Junction shopping precinct.

Looking for gorgeous gifts, homewares, fashion and jewellery? Plan your next shopping stop at Montebello Emporium.

Work on your fitness and flexibility with classes including reformer Pilates, mat yoga and aerial yoga at Little Mandarin.

With an all-day breakfast menu, discover the exotic flavours and dishes of the Philippines at Cafe Kusina.

SHOP NEWS BAYLEAF WELLNESS

FORTUNE CHINESE RESTAURANT

With an emphasis on holistic wellness, encompassing social, economic, environmental, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects, Bayleaf Wellness nurtures a vibrant community where individuals and clinicians actively collaborate to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Fortune Chinese Restaurant is where the flavours of traditional Sichuan cuisine come alive. The menu, highlighted by classics like Sichuan cold noodles, Sichuan style kung pao chicken, and beef with black pepper, invites you to embark on a unique culinary journey.

BEAR IT ALL

LA CABRA

797A Burke Rd

395 Camberwell Rd There’s a new fitness and lifestyle coach in town. With 1:1 coaching, strength workouts, and nutritional advice all available at Bear It All, it’s a great place to start your fitness and wellbeing journey.

BRAVA LINGERIE 835 Burke Rd

955 Burke Rd

207 Camberwell Rd Kick-start your week at La Cabra with Monday Margaritas! Relish in their delectable margaritas for only $12 every Monday, starting at 5pm. But the fun doesn’t stop there – join them for Taco Tuesday, where you get to pick from a variety of seven delicious flavours for a mere $5 per taco.

THE MODERN FURNITURE STORE

Brava Lingerie can assist schoolgirls with finding the correct-fitting bra as they navigate puberty and as their body shape transforms. Brava’s friendly fitters are adept at maintaining communication while minimising embarrassment. The store offers various bra styles including moulded bras with no nipple show and thin straps for summer tops. Enquire in store today.

347 Camberwell Rd

DECO CAFE

R-HAAN

211 Camberwell Rd Craving that perfect slice of pizza? Deco’s express lunch is here to make your lunch time more delicious and affordable. Available every day from 12pm – 4pm, pick your favourite pizza and pair it with a refreshing glass of house wine or beer, all for just $19!

The Modern Furniture Store brings Scandinavian design and modernist practicality to Australian homes with their new styling service. Styling experts will carefully curate a visual personality for your home to compliment your lifestyle. Visit their showroom to learn more.

415 Riversdale Rd New to Camberwell Junction, R-Haan is a restaurant that offers classic Thai flavours and traditional dishes. They have mastered the art of creating hearty and comforting dishes that evoke feelings of home-cooked meals.

Licenced or BYO wine only.

FISHBOWL

672 Burke Rd Fishbowl has opened in Camberwell Junction and offers healthy fast food.

Their menu is inspired by Japanese flavours – choose from their popular bowls or boxes.

Camberwell Catch-up is sponsored by the Camberwell Centre Traders Association camberwellshopping.com.au

CAMBERWELL JUNCTION PRESENTS

CHRISTMAS FA MILY DAY

9 R E B M E C E D , Y A D R SATU 11AM - 3PM

MUSICIANS AND ENTERTAINERS FIND RUDOLPH COMPETITON  PHOTOS WITH SANTA FACE PAINTING  CHRISTMAS PHOTO WALL BALLOON CREATIONS  CHRISTMAS CRAFTS

CAMBERWELL SHOPPING.COM.AU Camberwell Shopping | Burke Road & The Junction