Camberwell Citizen - Issue #5

T H E

C A M B E R W E L L

CITIZEN YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING LOCAL

FOOD SCENE FLOURISHES

How Camberwell has become a leading food destination in Melbourne

T H E S T Y L E C R E ATO R S

Meet three fashion designers setting the style agenda in Camberwell

LIVING WITH PLANTS

A guide to selecting the best indoor plants and how to best care for them

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

ISSUE #5

FREE COPY

2 • THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5

TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR NIGHT IN?

WIN

$1000 to spend in Camberwell however you want*

ENTER ONLINE:

camberwellshopping.com.au

Camberwell Shopping | Burke Road & The Junction

camberwellshopping.com.au

*Terms & Conditions apply - see website for details. Entries close 31/08/2019.

CITIZEN

THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5 • 3

CONTENTS 4 • FOOD SCENE FLOURISHES

How Camberwell has become a leading food destination in Melbourne.

7 • THE STYLE CREATORS

Meet three fashion designers setting the style agenda in Camberwell.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR It’s no secret that The Camberwell Citizen loves celebrating the local community, and this issue is no exception.

8 • LIVING WITH PLANTS

A guide to selecting the best indoor plants and how to best care for them.

Among our selection of stories, we feature the people and businesses that make Camberwell the thriving and vibrant area it is.

In our main feature, Food scene flourishes, we highlight how the Camberwell precinct has become a leading food destination in Melbourne thanks to the variety of global cuisines, healthy alternatives and brunch spots that attract foodies from far and wide.

9 • SUSTAINABLE SHOPS

How retailers are becoming more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

10 • CAMBERWELL CATCH-UP

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

At the heart of a community is its people and what they contribute to a local area. In The style creators we introduce you to three fashion designers who are injecting creativity into the area.

Communities that are progressive show that they’re capable of changing with the times, as demonstrated in Sustainable shops.

This story looks at how local retailers are responding to increasing demands for businesses to be more sustainable.

And for those looking to spruce up their home this season and invite a little more of the outdoors inside, we share a guide to selecting the best indoor plants, Living with plants.

I hope you enjoy the reads in this issue and do let us know if there are any stories you’d like us to cover in future.

Sharon Green Editor

EDITOR Sharon Green

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Steve de Niese JOURNALIST Benn Dorrington

CITIZEN

ADVERTISING, EDITORIAL AND DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES: citizen@assemblo.com

CIRCULATION 30,000 DISTRIBUTION*

Camberwell, Hawthorn, Hawthorn East, Glen Iris, Canterbury, Deepdene, Ashburton, Surrey Hills, Box Hill, Balwyn, Brighton.

PUBLISHER Assemblo Pty Ltd 322/282 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 assemblo.com ABN 88 143 206 508 Copyright 2019 Assemblo Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. *Distribution cannot be guaranteed to entire suburb.

4 • THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5

FOOD SCENE FLOURISHES Camberwell has become a food destination thanks to its mouth-watering selection of eateries, having gained a reputation for its brunch culture, health-oriented options and global cuisines.

There are almost 140 food businesses in Camberwell precinct, making up nearly one in three businesses in the suburb’s main shopping precinct.

ABOVE: Elyros serves authentic Cretan food.

“Camberwell has a lot of cafes and restaurants, so the intense competition means fantastic food for locals,” said Devon Russell, food writer and blogger for website Miss Sage Sugar.

LEFT: Food blogger Devon Russell.

BELOW: A range of dishes from La Cabra.

Ms Russell has reviewed numerous Camberwell eateries over the years for her site, which rates and reviews cafes and restaurants across Melbourne.

“In terms of restaurants, you can enjoy a variety of cuisines from Asian to Mediterranean, as well as fine dining and cheap eats,” she said.

“Also, with the high number of cafes in Camberwell, you will easily find a cafe within walking distance for your daily coffee needs.”

GLOBAL FLAVOURS One of Camberwell’s key attractions is the array of worldly cuisines, transporting diners from Melbourne’s leafy eastern suburbs to far flung corners of the globe.

Take Afghan Village restaurant and Rose’s Gozleme Kitchen as examples, where people can try traditional dishes and treats from the Middle East.

For European fare, Franco-Belge brings together the flavours of France and Belgium while Elyros serves up award-winning Cretan-inspired nosh.

Camberwell is rich in Asian flavours, including Thai, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian and Vietnamese cuisines on offer throughout the precinct.

Then there is La Cabra, where you can find modern Mexican, and East of Everything, home to Louisiana-inspired food such as po’ boys and gumbo.

CITIZEN

THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5 • 5

HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES Camberwell has also become renowned for speciality food businesses over the past five years, catering to increasing consumer demand for allergy‑friendly and organic foods.

The Source Bulk Foods opened its doors in late 2014 and has since provided customers with the ability to purchase a range of food items in bulk, including flour, pasta and nuts, as well as a selection of organic, paleo‑friendly, low sugar and gluten free foods.

Superfood bar Acai Brothers landed in the suburb in late 2017 to serve up smoothies, juices, acai bowls and raw treats for health‑conscious consumers.

Then Foddies, a Melbourne-based food brand that caters for low FODMAP (LoFo), gluten free and other dietary requirements, opened their first cafe in the shopping precinct last year.

There has been a strong demand for healthy meals and treats that cater to dietary and allergy-friendly needs, said Sheli Ratcliff, sole operator of Acai Brothers in Camberwell.

“When we first arrived in Camberwell, we had such amazing feedback from people in the area,” she said.

ABOVE: Sheli Ratcliff of Acai Brothers in Camberwell.

“People come in and say how surprised they are that they can order anything and not have to worry whether it’s going to be detrimental to their health and dietary requirements.”

THERE HAS BEEN A STRONG D E M A N D F O R H E A LT H Y M E A L S A N D T R E AT S T H AT C AT E R TO D I E TA R Y A N D A L L E R G Y‑ F R I E N D LY N E E D S .

THE BRUNCH BOOM Brunch has become much more than a mealtime, it’s now a national pasttime for many and the trend has had traction in Camberwell for years.

When Ms Russell first started food blogging, she said there was more of a focus on restaurants and eating out at night at classic Camberwell restaurants like Italy 1.

“Now enjoying breakfast or brunch at a cafe has become increasingly popular, where you can share your lovely dishes and lattes with friends, family and social media,” she said.

“Fashionable cafes such as Legacy and My Other Brother draw those who live locally and further afield to their stylish food and decor.”

Collective Expresso, CoffeeHead and other cafes have also helped raise Camberwell’s profile as a coffee and brunch port of call.

There are plenty of other food options scattered throughout the precinct, including casual dining options like Grill’d, and numerous bars offering wine and tasty platters such as St Giles Wine Bar and Young’s Wine Rooms.

What comes next for the area’s flourishing food scene is anybody’s guess, but one thing is for certain: Camberwell is continuing to cement its position as a food destination in Melbourne.

Photo: Maddi Bazzocco Photography

6 • THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5

Fres

h cr usty brea d

The freshest fruit & veg

CA

OPEN FROM 7AM TUESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAYS

BU RK E RD

s flower t h ig r t & b Vibran M BE RW EL L

VILLAGE CINEMAS

RD RI VE RS DA

LE RD

M BE RW

Camberwell_Fresh_Food_Market

LE RD

CA

Camberwell Fresh Food Market

Find us just off the Junction! camberwellfreshfoodmarket.com.au

EL L

BU RK E RD

519-525 Riversdale Road Camberwell 3124

RI VE RS DA

RD

CAMBERWELL PRIMARY SCHOOL

DISCOVER SOMETHING SPECIAL AMAZING STATIONERY, NOTEBOOKS AND CARDS FOR ALL OCCASIONS, ITALIAN LEATHER JOURNALS AND BAGS, BEAUTIFUL MELBOURNE-MADE SOAPS, CANDLES AND DIFFUSERS, CALLIGRAPHY SETS, HANDMADE PHOTO ALBUMS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE....

638 Burke Rd Camberwell ♦ www.paperrepublic.com.au ♦ 03 9882 1526 ♦ Instagram: @paper.republic

CITIZEN

THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5 • 7

T H E S T Y L E C R E ATO R S Camberwell is home to a variety of fashion brands and stores, but it’s also a hive of creativity.

Meet three fashion tastemakers who share a connection with the local area.

MAY KIN OF KINN & CO.

FELICITY LAMERS OF MEREDITH

May Kin is a huge fan of accessories, especially when it comes to earrings.

Felicity Lamers loves working with colour and creating something new each season for the Meredith and Matisse brands.

Ms Kin and her Kinn & Co. range of earrings can often be found at the Rotary Camberwell Sunday Market, as well as other markets around Melbourne and on Instagram (@kinnnco).

She describes her style as simple and minimal yet playful. The brand ranges from everyday simple studs and strands through to more colourful statement pieces.

“Nothing can lift my day quite like a decent pair of earrings and dressing myself up is pretty much like decorating my body,” she said.

Ms Kin said she was often drawn to unique earrings but struggled to find attractive pieces that were also affordable.

Kinn & Co. often exhibits at Rotary Camberwell Sunday Market, Market Place carpark, Camberwell.

The Meredith label has operated out of its Camberwell store for decades, providing quality knitwear and limited-edition garments for women.

Ms Lamers said Meredith was a lifestyle brand that was comfortable, easy to wear and look after, and gives its customers a splash of colour.

“It’s all about colour, clean lines, simplicity and comfort,” she said.

“I get a real buzz because ultimately the customer is the one that you’re working for, so I get a buzz out of them being happy,” the designer added.

Find Meredith at 825 Burke Rd, Camberwell.

MIMMA PRIOLO OF MIMMA PRIOLO DESIGNS Fashion designer Mimma Priolo describes her style as timeless and elegant rather than focused on seasonal trends.

Ms Priolo has been designing her classic, stylish gowns out of Camberwell for the past 19 years, creating made-to-measure and ready-to-wear pieces that have won several Fashions on the Field competitions.

“I have a passion for it. Each day is never the same,” she said. “It’s all about making other people feel good about themselves on their special day, whether it’s their wedding or something else.”

The designer, who started her career studying arts and fashion at RMIT University, loves having the freedom to express different pieces and seeing how much people appreciate them.

Find Mimma Priolo Designs at 744 Burke Rd, Camberwell.

Mimma Priolo photo: The Twin Mum Photography

“IT’S ALL ABOUT COLOUR, CLEAN LINES, SIMPLICITY A N D C O M F O R T. ” - FELICITY LAMERS

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

8 • THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5

LIVING WITH PLANTS Indoor plants can instantly add colour and freshness to your home, and you don’t need a green thumb to keep of them alive. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Here are some of our favourite indoor plants and tips for taking care of them.

DEVIL’S IVY This trailing ivy, Epipremnum aureum, grows quickly and has a reputation for being hard to kill, as its common name suggests. This low‑maintenance vine has waxy leaves and looks great in a hanging basket or in a pot on the bookshelf. Care tip: Water Devil’s Ivy about once a week and cut back to every other week in winter. It grows best in bright light but can tolerate low-light conditions.

SNAKE PLANT The upright yellow and green foliage of the Sansevieria, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue or snake plant, is eye-catching to say the least.

This plant is also a popular choice for its air-filtering qualities and comes in a range of sizes, from small shrub‑like varieties to towering types. Care tip: The snake plant needs very little attention, so allow the soil to dry between watering and avoid over watering it in winter.

It also prefers partial sun.

PEACE LILY

FIDDLE LEAF FIG

Spathiphyllum, or the peace lily, has a lot to offer with gorgeous white flowers and dark green leaves however, its air-filtering qualities have made it a standout.

According to NASA’s 1989 study, the peace lily can remove a handful of toxins from the air, making it one of the most effective air purifiers, alongside Devil’s Ivy. Care tip: This undemanding plant only needs a weekly water in warmer months and less in cooler months. It thrives in well-lit or medium-lit spaces.

The fiddle leaf fig is a true showstopper in the indoor plant world thanks to its glossy, violin-shaped foliage.

The large, pretty leaves of the Ficus lyrata add a real pop of colour to any room, which is why it has become an interior favourite. Care tip: This fig is more delicate than other house plants, so only water when the top layers of the soil are dry and keep it in a bright area but out of direct sunlight.

CACTUS SWISS CHEESE PLANT The Monstera deliciosa takes its common name from the patterned holes in its big, broad leaves — a bit like Swiss cheese. While its huge, glossy leaves grow quickly, it is relatively low maintenance and gives off a lush, tropical vibe. Care tip: The Swiss cheese plant is a fun addition to any room and flourishes in a bright spot near a window. Keep in mind this tropical plant only needs watering weekly when its topsoil is dry.

CITIZEN

The humble cactus is the least fussy of all the indoor plants and comes in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours. Why not get a few of them at the same time and cluster them in a spot that needs some colour and life? Care tip: The only catch with the cactus is that it needs some natural light however, they do better out of direct sunlight. Water weekly and then sparingly in winter.

Note: Some of these plants can be poisonous to cats and dogs, so it’s best to store them off the ground.

THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5 • 9

SUSTAINABLE SHOPS Shoppers are looking to spend their dollars with environmentally friendly retail shops, eateries and other traders, as businesses adopt green practices to improve their sustainability credentials.

Camberwell businesses are taking action in a range of ways to reduce their environmental impact, whether it’s banning plastic bags, emailing receipts or promoting reusable coffee cups.

Consumer demand has driven many places to take up more sustainable operations to do their bit for the environment and gain an edge on the competition.

A 2018 global survey found 81 per cent of respondents felt strongly that companies should help improve the environment, led by millennials and Gen Z, according to data provider Nielson.

Shops like The Source Bulk Foods in Camberwell offer a no-waste shopping experience, where consumers buy the exact amount of groceries they need and then take them home in paper bags or their own containers.

“Back when we opened [in 2014], I think the number of people who were aware of packaging waste was a lot lower,” said Bec Corbett, co-owner of The Source Bulk Foods Camberwell.

“We do find our customers, especially more recently, are more aware of their plastic consumption and how much packaging that food products come in these days.”

A 2018 GLOBAL SURVEY FOUND 81 PER CENT O F R E S P O N D E N T S F E LT S T R O N G LY T H AT C O M PA N I E S S H O U L D H E L P I M P R OV E T H E E N V I R O N M E N T. Customers discovered the business was burning unsold clothes, accessories and perfume worth tens of millions of dollars a year to protect its brand, so a public campaign was started and forced the label to stop the practice and reduce its waste.

The call for greater accountability has been heard by the fashion industry, with 43 major brands, retailers and organisations such as Adidas, Esprit, H&M and Target signing on to an industry charter for climate action late last year.

The group is working to address the industry’s climate impact, committing to reducing their aggregate greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 and striving to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

While industry leadership is driving change, regulations are also important — just look at the plastic bag bans coming into force this year.

Most states and territories, except for New South Wales, are introducing lightweight plastic bag bans by the end of 2019.

The Victorian ban, which comes into effect in November, includes compostable, degradable and biodegradable plastics, and will apply to retailers and suppliers of all sizes.

Nearby Sheridan Studio has a recycling program that collects any pre-loved sheets and towels and offers customers a 10 per cent discount off future purchases.

The country-wide program turns recovered household textiles into new products, reducing the number of old sheets and towels that end up in landfill.

Cafes and restaurants in the area are also looking at ways to cut down waste such as ditching plastic straws and composting food scraps.

Numerous places now encourage coffee drinkers to bring in their reusable cup instead of a disposable cup for their caffeine fix, with some even offering a discount.

For example, Little Pony cafe in Camberwell offers customers a 30-cent discount on their coffee if they bring their own reusable cup.

Consumer pressure has also forced change on companies like luxury fashion label Burberry, which came under fire last year.

As many retailers try to reduce their environmental impact, Ms Corbett said it was important for customers to know that many businesses were limited by how suppliers make and transport their goods to stores.

“A lot of the time the majority of waste comes from how businesses receive their products,” she said.

As the sustainability movement continues to gain momentum, it’s important to remember there is still a long way to go.

But the main lesson learned so far is that everyday people can drive change through their wallet by supporting and shopping with businesses doing their bit for the environment.

10 • THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5

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

MEET FAMOUS AUTHORS AT DYMOCKS LITERARY EVENTS Running for more than 15 years, Dymocks literary events has brought best-selling authors, politicians and celebrities to Camberwell.

Some of the authors that have featured at the events include Jodi Picoult, Marian Keyes and Graeme Simsion (pictured above), politicians John Howard and Peter Costello, and TV personalities Kerri-Anne Kennerley and Ray Martin.

Guests can enjoy a sit-down dinner or a cocktail-style event followed by an author talk and book signings. Find upcoming events at camberwellshopping.com.au Dymocks Camberwell also hosts a monthly book club meeting. There is no set book – guests can come along, meet authors and network with book lovers.

Tickets include finger foods, beverages and publisher giveaways.

FIND FRESH FOOD AND DINING AT CAMBERWELL PLACE CELEBRATE FOOD AND DINING WITH THE ANNUAL CAMBERWELL DINNER PARTY From August 19 to September 15, the Camberwell shopping precinct will launch The Annual Camberwell Dinner Party, a month-long celebration of food and dining.

Restaurants, cafes, eateries and food stores will put on special in-store events, themed dinners, new menus, cooking demonstrations and entertainment.

Food lovers are encouraged to create their own dinner party, whatever that means to them. It could be a meal at a fine dining restaurant or sourcing fresh ingredients to prepare a feast at home.

As part of the celebration, Camberwell traders will host ‘A Night in Camberwell’, an event on the evening of Saturday, September 7.

Visitors to the precinct can follow the food trail to explore businesses hosting special promotions, dining experiences, exclusive menus and shows on the night.

The theme for the evening will be an Art Deco 1920s – 1930s vibe, and street entertainment will include live jazz, roving entertainers and moody projections. Street promotors will be available to greet visitors and suggest dining venues to those who haven’t pre-booked.

For all your fresh food needs and dining options, be sure to head to Camberwell Place shopping centre.

For fresh produce, groceries and meat, visit the ground level to find Coles, Coltivare, Fish Pier, Fish & Sushi Well, Liquorland and Rainbow Meats.

Restaurants, cafes and eateries now operating on level 1 include Cone Heads, Just Italy, Rex Espresso, St Giles Wine Bar, Cellar and Pantry, Sushi Pier, Thai Thani and Yum Yami.

ACCESS EXCLUSIVE EVENTS, OFFERS AND NEWS Once a month we send out an email newsletter that shares events, exclusive offers, competitions, local news and ‘Meet a Trader’ stories. It’s a great way to stay up to date on everything happening in Camberwell shopping precinct.

Sign up at camberwellshopping.com.au

Be sure to come along, enjoy the festivities and celebrate food in Camberwell.

ENJOY FATHER’S DAY IN CAMBERWELL

Details: camberwelldinnerparty.com.au

Whether you need a holiday, love fine dining or want a new wardrobe, we’re giving you the chance to win $1000 to spend in Camberwell however you want*.

Spoil dad this Father’s Day (Sunday, September 1) in Camberwell. Find stylish fashion garments, treat dad to a haircut or shave at a barber, or enjoy lunch at a cafe or restaurant. For a unique experience, visit the Rotary Camberwell Sunday Market, see a movie at the iconic Rivoli cinemas or try floating at Elevation Floatation.

Enter online at camberwellshopping.com.au

For more ideas, visit: camberwellshopping.com.au

WIN $1000 TO SPEND HOWEVER YOU WANT

*Terms and conditions apply.

CITIZEN

THE CAMBERWELL CITIZEN • ISSUE #5 • 11

OUT AND ABOUT Here’s how locals and visitors have been enjoying the Camberwell shopping precinct recently.

DINERS ENJOY A MEAL AT HERITAGE WALL.

TURMERIC LATTES ARE A POPULAR OPTION AT MY OTHER BROTHER.

CUSTOMERS CHOOSE TASTY TREATS ON OFFER AT PROVENCE ARTISAN BAKERS.

SHOP NEWS AUDIKA

MARKET BLOOMS

Audio Vision has rebranded to Audika and relocated to the rear of 576 Burke Rd. The rebranded store remains focused on helping clients with hearing services and offers free hearing tests for adults over 26 years.

A new florist has popped up in Camberwell. With fresh flowers delivered daily, find the highest quality flowers at Market Blooms.

Shop 2, rear of 576 Burke Rd

BUGSY’S

Shop 22, Camberwell Fresh Food Market, 519 - 525 Riversdale Rd Bugsy’s, a store dedicated to helping pets maintain optimum health, has opened in the Camberwell Fresh Food Market. They sell products that are clean, natural and chemical free.

CHARGRILL CHARLIE’S 10 Prospect Hill Rd

Family-run business Chargrill Charlie’s recently opened in Camberwell and offers chargrilled and Portuguese-style chicken, healthy salads, burgers, handmade rolls, chips and wedges.

CON NOI ITALIAN TRATTORIA 259 Camberwell Rd

Con Noi Italian Trattoria has opened in Camberwell and offers paninis, cannoli, risotto and pastas. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are available on the menu.

Shop 11A, Camberwell Arcade, 600 - 606 Burke Rd

NEUAUDIO

c/o Life Ready, 636 Burke Rd Audiologist Andrew Campbell is now consulting from Life Ready. If you are experiencing difficulty hearing and/or tinnitus, contact NeuAudio for a hearing assessment: 1300 418 852.

NIGEL

Ground floor, 691 Burke Rd Nigel has opened at 691 Burke Rd, offering an intimate cafe setting serving delicious ST. ALi Coffee, jaffles and a range of house-baked treats. Open 7.30am – 4pm, Monday to Friday.

SOUTH PACIFIC HEALTH CLUBS 849 Burwood Rd

South Pacific Health Clubs is now operating in Camberwell and offers more than just a gym. With 24/7 access, enjoy cardio machines, reformer Pilates, 8 styles of yoga, HIIT sessions and bodyweight training.

ELEMENTARY SKIN CARE

Shop 22, Camberwell Fresh Food Market, 519 - 525 Riversdale Rd Elementary Skin Care has opened in the Camberwell Fresh Food Market. The ethically- minded boutique specialises in high quality, natural products made free of petrochemical-based ingredients.

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

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

For the latest special offers, family events and competitions, visit:Â camberwellshopping.com.au

Camberwell Shopping | Burke Road & The Junction

camberwellshopping.com.au