Camberwell Citizen - Issue #16

CITIZEN THE

HOLISTIC HEALTH

Why complementary and alternative medicine is becoming increasingly popular

PROPERTY MARKET TO ‘STABILISE’

An inside look at how the Camberwell property market is performing

SUPERFOOD LATTES

Discover the nutrient-packed drinks boasting serious health benefits

PLUS CATCH UP ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CAMBERWELL JUNCTION

CONTENTS

4 • HOLISTIC HEALTH

More people are embracing complementary and alternative medicine to treat their health. Find out why.

6 • SUPERFOOD LATTES

Discover the nutrient-packed alternatives to traditional coffee drinks that boast some serious health benefits.

8 • PROPERTY MARKET TO ‘STABILISE’

An inside look at the local property market, how it’s performing, and what to expect for the upcoming season.

9 • FINE AUTUMN READS

From insightful non-fiction to exciting page -turners, these are the books to fall in love with this autumn.

10 • CAMBERWELL CATCH-UP

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

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Each year Australians spend big dollars on complementary and alternative medicine, and it’s estimated that two thirds of us use these treatments to address health concerns. So, why do we love therapies like acupuncture, kinesiology and naturopathy so much? Find out in our story Holistic health

You’ve heard of a latte but have you ever tried a superfood latte? Available in every colour of the rainbow, superfood lattes are a nutrient-packed alternative to traditional coffee drinks and boast some serious health benefits. Take your pick from the selection in Superfood lattes

Confidence is returning to the property market in Camberwell, where values have fared better than much of the rest of the country. As eight consecutive interest rate rises and cost of living pressures drove down house and unit values across Australia last year, how did Camberwell perform? We share insights from experts in the article Property market to ‘stabilise’

As cosy season arrives, making it the perfect time of year to curl up with a good book, we’ve got some recommendations in Fine autumn reads. From insightful non-fiction to exciting page-turners, these are the books to fall in love with this autumn.

Be sure to catch up on what’s happening in Camberwell Junction. With Country Road moving to a new location and the CamberWELL-BEING health and wellness event coming up soon, Camberwell Catch-up shares the latest news.

I hope you enjoy the reads in this issue.

Sharon Green Editor

EDITOR

Sharon Green

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Steve de Niese

JOURNALISTS

Seanna Cronin

Melissa Noble

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*Distribution cannot be guaranteed to entire suburb.

HOLISTIC HEALTH

So, why do Australians love therapies such as acupuncture, kinesiology and naturopathy so much?

Australian Natural Therapists Association executive officer Jim Olds said it’s because they are looking for a holistic treatment option.

“Apart from that, (it’s about) getting a chance to experience something that is not mainstream but is still effective,” he said.

COMPLEMENTARY VS ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

Although complementary and alternative medicines are usually grouped together under the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) banner, there is a distinction between the two.

Complementary therapies are ‘non-mainstream’ therapies that are used alongside conventional (standard) medicine. Alternative therapies can mean therapies used instead of traditional medicine. Integrative medicine combines conventional Western medicine with evidence-based complementary medicines and therapies.

While the notion of alternative therapies as a substitute for conventional standard medicine has long been controversial, some doctors are finding a middle ground and accepting complementary medicine as an additional way to improve health and wellbeing.

In 2022, researchers published a 15-year systematic review and data synthesis on the acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists. The results varied across medical specialists – family medicine reported the highest acceptance of CAM, while surgery the least.

“Many people try alternative medicines to achieve a healthy outcome free from side effects of some mainstream medicines,” said Mr Olds.

“This is best achieved through consultation with supportive practitioners from both sides of the health choices for patients. Professional practice guidelines support this ‘complementary’ approach to support the best result for the end user.”

Each year Australians spend big dollars on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. It’s estimated up to two out of three Australians use CAM and it has a market size of more than $3.5 billion.

Complementary and alternative health therapies are becoming increasingly popular as Australians seek holistic treatment options.

POPULAR COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES

KINESIOLOGY

Kinesiology is a type of therapy that uses muscle monitoring as a form of biofeedback to detect and treat imbalances in the body. These imbalances may give rise to other health issues.

Restored Balance Kinesiology owner Megan McIntyre practices a modern form of kinesiology called neuroenergetic kinesiology from her Camberwell-based business.

The therapy identifies and defuses stress in the body using a technique called formatting.

“Kinesiology balances or removes stress in the body so that your body can resolve symptoms,” she said.

“Stress is good; it gets you off the couch and gets you achieving your goals. But when stress is persistent and consistent over time, your stress can cause you an issue.”

Ms McIntyre said her role as a kinesiologist was to use muscle testing to clear any blocks in that stress pathway.

“I don’t heal anyone, I just remove stress so that the body can,” she said.

NATUROPATHY

Naturopathy takes a holistic approach to wellness and treating health problems. It often focuses on healthy diet, fresh water, sunlight, exercise and stress management. At its core is the belief that the body has the capacity to heal itself.

During a consultation, naturopaths usually ask a range of questions about your diet, lifestyle, background and medical history. In some instances, they may perform iridology or blood analysis, and other types of testing. Treatment plans may include nutritional advice, herbal medicine suggestions, homeopathic treatments, hydrotherapy, lifestyle advice, or therapies such as acupressure or Bowen technique.

“The easiest explanation is that we are kind of a combination between chiropractic, physiotherapy and massage therapy in terms of the treatment that we provide. We do a little bit of massage; we do some muscle techniques and we do some manipulations from a treatment perspective.”

Dr Brennan said osteopaths were not restricted to just dealing with one aspect of the body.

“We’ll look at muscles, joints, ligaments, nerves,” she said.

“The one thing that we as a clinic try to differentiate ourselves from other health professionals is that we are really interested and invested in trying to understand the cause of someone’s complaint.”

Osteopaths see patients with a range of issues, from sciatica and vertigo to muscle strains and sprains.

So, what can you expect during a consultation?

Osteopaths will take a complete medical history before assessing the complaint and beginning hands-on care.

“Following that, the management will entail an analysis, posture, ergonomics, behaviours, plus we’ll potentially prescribe some rehabilitation, so some stretches or strengthening work,” said Dr Brennan.

CHIROPRACTIC AND OSTEOPATHY

The Australian Chiropractors Association defines chiropractic as “a drug and surgery-free modality of treatment concerned with the diagnosis, management and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system (spine); this includes the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health”.

People see chiropractors for a range of issues, from headaches and arthritis to neck or back pain.

Treatments can include spinal manipulation using the hands (an adjustment), mobilisation, exercises, soft tissue techniques (massage), and other techniques.

Osteopathy is a non-invasive, hands-on therapy focusing on the body as a whole and the notion that all the body’s systems are interrelated.

“There’s a lot of uncertainty in the community about what we do,” said Dr Lisa Brennan from Camberwell Osteopathic Clinic.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese medicine has evolved over thousands of years. It draws on various practices to improve quality of life and treat health problems. Examples include acupuncture, tai chi and Chinese herbal medicine. Central to traditional Chinese medicine is the belief that the energy flows of yin and yang must be balanced within the body to achieve optimal health. With acupuncture, fine needles are inserted into specific areas, or acupuncture points, in order to clear energy blocks.

Tai chi involves gentle movements, postures, breathing and meditation to enhance balance and create harmony between the mind and body.

Chinese herbal medicines are prescribed to treat imbalanced energy (or Qi), that runs through invisible channels in the body called meridians. As with any medication, Chinese herbal medicines can be toxic and interact with other medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking them.

DECIDING WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

There’s no doubt that complementary and alternative medicine has gained popularity and is now considered an established part of health and wellness for many Australians.

Before trying any new therapies, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor and do your own research to make an informed decision about your healthcare.

LEFT: Megan McIntyre of Restored Balance Kinesiology

RIGHT: Dr Lisa Brennan of Camberwell Osteopathic Clinic

SUPERFOOD LATTES

Available in every colour of the rainbow, superfood lattes are a nutrient-packed alternative to traditional coffee drinks and boast some serious health benefits.

TURMERIC LATTE

Known as the golden latte thanks to its bright yellow colour, this soothing latte is famous for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Often blended with chai spices, honey and choice of milk, turmeric has an earthy, rounded flavour which makes it a great alternative to coffee. Black pepper is also often added to golden latte blends as it aids the body’s absorption of turmeric.

MUSHROOM LATTE

This ‘shroom brew’ boasts strong antioxidants and minerals that boost immunity, clear brain fog, and fight fatigue. Made with a medicinal blend of mushroom powder, often made from reishi and shiitake mushrooms, the earthiness of this latte pairs nicely with a shot of espresso as a morning energy boost and the chocolate flavours of cacao powder as an afternoon or post- dinner treat.

BEETROOT LATTE

This latte gets its vibrant pink colour from beetroot, which is full of antioxidants and is known to help boost immunity and support inner cleansing. Sometimes called the pink or velvet latte, beetroot lattes can be made with either beetroot powder or a shot of fresh beetroot juice combined with frothed milk, honey, cinnamon and ginger. Maple syrup and nutmeg also compliment beetroot.

BLUE LATTE

Often called the Smurf or mermaid latte, this drink gets its rich blue hue from blue spirulina, derived from blue-green algae or the butterfly pea flower. Blue spirulina is rich in vitamins, minerals, carotenoids and antioxidants, and can increase metabolism and improve digestion. Rich in B vitamins, which can enhance energy, it’s often blended with adaptogenic herbs to promote calm and balance.

PURPLE LATTE

Derived from the purple yam root or purple carrot, the ‘ube latte’ has a striking lavender colour. Often enjoyed before bed, it promotes relaxation and a restful night’s sleep thanks to a combination of sleep-inducing herbs and botanicals. A healthy dessert drink alternative, it’s often made with coconut milk and vanilla extract. It’s also rich in potassium, which helps maintain blood pressure.

MATCHA LATTE

The most well-known of the superfood lattes, this drink gets its bright green colour from Japanese matcha (green tea). While not caffeine free, it contains less caffeine than coffee and is a popular coffee alternative. Matcha promotes focus and alertness, and is rich in antioxidants. Its earthy flavour and slight bitterness pairs well with creamy coconut milk and Manuka honey.

PROPERTY MARKET TO ‘STABILISE’

Confidence is returning to the property market in Camberwell, where values have fared better than much of the rest of the country.

As eight consecutive interest rate rises and cost of living pressures drove down house and unit values across Australia last year, wiping out some of the gains made during the pandemic, Camberwell bucked the trend.

Locally, both home and unit sale prices rebounded in the final quarter of 2022. In the wider Boroondara council area, house prices increased about 4 per cent last year while unit prices increased about 5 per cent.

Just a week after the Reserve Bank of Australia’s first rate rise decision of this year, there was a significant shift in auction results.

“The beginning of the year was a bit of a shaky period where a lot of us didn’t know where we were heading to (with interest rates), but in early February we started to see a lot of auctions sold under the hammer,” said Mr Janssen Xiang, director and auctioneer at First National Real Estate Camberwell.

“In Camberwell and around Camberwell, there is limited stock on the market and cashed-up buyers want to buy and want to compete. So, we probably think the market is a good market to buy because there is less competition.”

Buyer’s agent Mike McNamara, of Strategic Buyers Agents, said plenty of off-market properties are being offered to buyer’s agents.

“Houses are basically at prices of a year ago but vendors are largely holding property off the market, waiting for the upturn before they list,” Mr McNamara said.

“In house sales, this has led to more buyers focusing on each home for sale, so clearance rates are rising.”

According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV), in the fourth quarter of 2022 the median house sale price in Camberwell was $2.73 million – up 13.1 per cent from the previous quarter. In January, CoreLogic reported the median house price at $2.6 million.

“The areas in which we operate are sought-after areas due to factors such as prestigious schools, both private and public, and traditional 19th century period-style homes,” said Allan Chitty of Woodwards.

“There is an abundance of trees and green space as well as long-standing infrastructure with shopping and transport options.”

Similarly, units were up 11 per cent in the final quarter of last year, with a median sale price of $900,000, spending an average of 40 days on the market.

“The buyers in our areas are varied given the mix of large family homes, units and apartments. We find buyers trading up to larger homes while first home buyers are seeking units and apartments for stability over the rental market,” Mr Chitty said.

The outlook for the rest of 2023 is also positive. With the RBA expected to apply the brakes to its rapid run of interest rate rises, the property market and wider economy should stabilise as consumer confidence returns.

“I think we will arrive to a steady stage where everyone is okay with the interest rate and there is no fuss about it anymore,” Mr Xiang said.

“If there are only a few more (interest rate rises) like the RBA says, I think the market will be pretty stable soon.”

Mr Chitty expects to see limited growth in local property values in 2023 due to lower volume than normal market conditions, but not the declines forecast by some media outlets.

“For sellers, we would generally suggest considering the early part of 2023 rather than the latter and also pricing properties for sale at a realistic level from the commencement of the campaign,” he said.

Once interest rates plateau, Mr McNamara believes more buyers will be confident to make their move.

“Prices will likely stabilise mid-2023, if not already, and start the next upcycle later in the year,” he said.

“If banks’ mortgage rates are discounted later in 2023, the Camberwell house and unit markets will be one of the suburbs that lead the upturn. It is very difficult to predict the start of the upturn in prices in advance, but it is better for buyers to act early rather than too late.”

FAR LEFT: Janssen Xiang, director at First National Real Estate Camberwell

LEFT: Mike McNamara, buyer’s agent at Strategic Buyers Agents

FINE AUTUMN READS

From insightful non-fiction to exciting page-turners, here are the books to fall in love with this autumn.

BETWEEN BEFORE AND AFTER by Edita Mujkic

In her literary debut, Bosnian refugee and now Balwyn local Edita Mujkic recounts her escape from war-torn Sarajevo, her attempts to extricate her husband from the besieged city, and their two-year journey to Melbourne. The memoir is a powerful story of resilience, finding hope in a desperate situation, and the triumph of two people’s love for each other.

UNBOUNDED by Maria Thattil

As a queer child of immigrants, Maria Thattil struggled with belonging. In her inspirational memoir, she shares what she has learned through experiencing racism, sexism, financial hardship, homophobia and mental health challenges. In 2021, Thattil became the third woman of colour to represent Australia in the Miss Universe competition and created a media platform advocating for empowerment and equality.

HOMECOMING by Kate Morton

In a new novel from the bestselling author of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, an Australian journalist struggling to make ends meet in London returns home to discover her family’s shocking connection to a long-buried police case. One of the most baffling murder investigations in the history of South Australia, it’s a mystery that’s never been satisfactorily resolved.

SYMPHONY OF SECRETS by Brendan Slocumb

In the latest novel from the author of The Violin Conspiracy, professor Bern Hendricks uncovers a shocking secret about the most famous American composer of all time – that his music was stolen from young Black composer Josephine Reed. Determined to uncover the truth and right history’s wrongs, Bern will stop at nothing to give Josephine the recognition she deserves.

MONEY MAGNET by

Steve McKnight

Camberwell-based Steve McKnight is one of Australia’s most successful real estate authors. In his new practical how-to guide, the multimillionaire explains his simple approach to making, managing and multiplying money, and how to make your wealth count by giving it real meaning. McKnight lays out the tools needed to help plan, manage and measure your wealth-building progress. He donates all of the royalties from his books to the TreeChange program, which plants native forests in Victoria.

online publication for smart, savvy women who are forging their own path

The online publication for smart, savvy women who are forging their own path

CAMBERWELL CATCH-UP

There has been plenty of activity taking place in Camberwell Junction in recent months and lots in store for the coming weeks.

COUNTRY ROAD MOVES TO NEW STORE

Country Road has moved to a new store in the heart of Burke Rd – a space that is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Interior Certification from the Green Building Council of Australia.

This internationally recognised rating indicates Australian Excellence in store design, and will become Country Road’s sixteenth store location to target the rating.

Throughout the design process, existing store elements were carefully repurposed to reduce waste, while a number of new fixtures incorporated recycled materials. Examples include using recycled yoghurt containers for fixtures, carpet crafted using recycled fishing nets, and parquetry flooring reclaimed from old buildings.

“We applaud this iconic Australian business for continuously pushing the boundaries of sustainable innovation,” said Davina Rooney, CEO of Green Building Council of Australia.

Covering 450m2 of retail space, the interior has evolved to feel like a large boutique with residential character. It’s filled with natural daylight, softly rendered walls and curtains to provide an experience of comfort, delight and heightened service.

Kerry Daly, manager of the Camberwell Traders’ Association, said it was exciting to see the new store open in Camberwell Junction.

JOIN US AT CAMBERWELL-BEING

Come along to CamberWELL-BEING on Saturday, May 20 – an annual event that celebrates the diverse range of health and wellness businesses in Camberwell Junction. We’d love for you to join the fun!

Follow the Wellness Trail by starting at CamberWELL-BEING HQ (located at Camberwell Fresh Food Market, rear entrance via Market Place) where you can check in and collect your Wellness Passport.

The passport will guide you to participating health and wellness businesses on the trail where you can get it stamped. These businesses will host special events and have exclusive offers available on the day.

When you’re done on the trail, return to HQ by 2pm with your stamped passport for the chance to win from a huge prize pool, including personal training vouchers, free fitness classes, beauty treatments and health consultations.

Details: camberwellbeing.com.au

CELEBRATE MUM THIS MOTHER’S DAY

Don’t forget that Mother’s Day is coming up soon and will be on Sunday, May 14. With more than 400 stores across Camberwell Junction, it’s easy to find the perfect gift for your mum. Treat her to books, flowers, fashion, a salon voucher, or get the family together for brunch at a cafe.

For a full list of businesses visit: camberwellshopping.com.au

“Not only is this new store a wonderful addition to Burke Rd, it’s great to see Country Road continue their presence in the precinct. The store has a rich history in Camberwell Junction and we hope it will be here long into the future,” she said.

JOIN THE VIP LIST

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

SHOP SPOTLIGHT

Highlights and happenings in the Camberwell Junction shopping precinct.

Find all of your favourite cocktails complimented by a changing seasonal menu at Young’s Wine Rooms.

SHOP NEWS

ACE HOME GALLERY

760 Burke Rd

For effortless outfits that combine comfort and class, head to Sussan to uncover your wear-anywhere style.

How’s your form? Work on your core and posture with a reformer Pilates class at Love Athletica.

PS WINE SELECTIONS

7 Evans Place

New to Camberwell Junction, Ace Home Gallery offers a unique range of stylish and sophisticated home decor to meet all of your home decorating needs.

GLASSONS

636 Burke Rd

Glassons has opened a pop-up store in Camberwell Junction and is your destination for what’s new, what’s trending, must-have fashion pieces, wardrobe staples and everything in between!

HATS OFF HANDMADE HEADWEAR

514 Riverside Rd

Make your own felt hat under the guidance of an experienced milliner. All materials and equipment are supplied and classes are small groups or one - on-one. Call Kathryn on 0455 046 467 to book your place.

LITTLE MANDARIN YOGA & PILATES

Level 1, 574 Burke Rd (rear entry)

Little Mandarin, a new yoga and Pilates studio, has opened in Camberwell Junction. The studio offers hot yoga, aerial yoga as well as mat and reformer Pilates classes for any level.

ORIENTAL HEALTH

2B-2C Prospect Hill Rd

Oriental Health has moved to a new location on Prospect Hill Rd. The business continues to offer Chinese medicine services, remedial massage and myotherapy, beauty and skincare, and more.

New to Camberwell Junction, PS Wine Selections is a wine merchant that provides wine advice such as looking after cellars, wine purchases and private tasting. Consultations are available via appointment only.

SIX62

662 Burke Rd

Six62 has arrived in Camberwell Junction and offers a modern culinary experience like no other Mediterranean restaurant, where fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are transformed into mouth-watering masterpieces.

TEASER

720 Burke Rd

New to the precinct, Teaser brings a fresh tea experience combining traditional tea culture from China with new and exciting blends. Head in to try their range of milk bubble tea, mill mousse tea, and fresh fruit teas.

THE

924 COCKTAIL

8 - 10 Railway Pde

CO

The 924 Cocktail Co has recently opened a factory at 8-10 Railway Pde, right next to Camberwell train station. Barrel-aged cocktail lovers are welcome to visit every day, with sampling available from midday. Also ask about their regular Negroni Nights live jazz events. Entry is through Barrel & Roast.

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