Sick of being constantly connected? Why more of us are opting to unplug
REMARKABLE ROOT VEGGIES
Discover the nutritional benefits of humble root vegetables
PROPERTY MARKET SLOW BUT ‘STABLE’
An inside look at how the Camberwell property market is performing
PLUS CATCH UP ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CAMBERWELL JUNCTION
Coles Local | Rainbow Meats | Boost Juice Coltivare | Goodlife Health Clubs
Rex Espresso | Fish Pier | Wheel & Barrow
Terry White Chemmart | JB Hi-Fi | Moe & Co
Shoe Guy | The Beauty & Brow Parlour Sushi Pier | Zen 5 | Hairhub by Falcone Kat by Katherine Jane | Liquorland Noire Nails & Lash Spa | Myfone Repairs
Harold Street car park (Level 2): The Harold Street car park provides best access to JB Hi-Fi and speciality store shopping. Accessible via Harold Street.
Harold Street car park (Level 3): Upper-level car park provides best access to JB Hi-Fi, Goodlife and speciality store shopping. Accessible via Harold Street.
CONTENTS
4 • THE RISE OF THE DIGITAL DETOX
Sick of being constantly connected? Find out why more of us are opting to unplug.
6 • REMARKABLE ROOT VEGGIES
Discover the nutritional benefits of humble root vegetables and why they’re the unsung heroes of winter food.
8 • PROPERTY MARKET SLOW BUT ‘STABLE’
An inside look at how the Camberwell property market is performing, and what to expect for the upcoming season.
9 • RIVETING READS
From compelling non-fiction to thrilling novels, these books will captivate and entertain you.
10 • CAMBERWELL CATCH-UP
Catch up on what’s happening in the Camberwell Junction precinct.
EDITOR Sharon Green
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Steve de Niese
JOURNALIST
Seanna Cronin
ADVERTISING, EDITORIAL AND DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES: citizen@assemblo.com
CIRCULATION
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DISTRIBUTION*
Camberwell, Hawthorn, Hawthorn East, Glen Iris, Canterbury, Deepdene, Ashburton, Surrey Hills, Box Hill, Balwyn, Brighton.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
With winter here, many of us may be taking the time to reflect on our behaviours and habits. Despite the conveniences of living in a digital world, a lot of us are becoming dissatisfied with being constantly connected. In our feature The rise of the digital detox, we look at why more of us are opting to unplug and share the benefits of engaging in a regular digital detox.
The cooler season also means we’re likely embracing hearty comfort foods, and the humble root vegetable is likely the star of many dishes. In Remarkable root veggies, we share why it’s time to celebrate these unsung heroes of the winter garden and the incredible nutritional benefits they offer.
We’ve seen many changes to the property market over the past year, but what will the coming months hold? In Property market slow but ‘stable’, we chat to local real estate experts for a review of how the Camberwell property market has been performing and what to expect for the upcoming season.
If you’ve been retreating indoors and finding quiet hobbies to while away the dark evenings, we’ve got some great reading recommendations for you. From compelling non-fiction to thrilling novels, we share the books that will captivate and entertain you in Riveting reads
Lastly, be sure to catch up on what’s happening in Camberwell Junction. We’ve got details about the Camberwell Culinary Awards, plenty of shop news and more in Camberwell Catch-up
Copyright 2024 Assemblo Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited.
*Distribution cannot be guaranteed to entire suburb.
THE RISE OF THE DIGITAL DETOX
Many of us have become addicted to the constant need to be busy and connected but here’s why engaging in a regular digital detox is beneficial.
We’ve never had so much information at our fingertips. With a device that fits in our hand we can communicate with friends or colleagues, edit photos and videos, listen to a podcast and search the internet for whatever tickles our fancy.
But while advances in technology certainly come with their advantages, there’s also a downside to our devices.
We can become addicted to the constant need to be busy and connected. And without a break from all of this stimulation, our minds and bodies don’t get a chance to process and recover.
Perhaps it should come as no surprise that more people are seeking out time away from screens and technology to restore balance and wellbeing.
Deep down, we all recognise that feeling so beholden to our phones isn’t healthy, said Camberwell-based burnout prevention coach Annika Egglestone.
“We know we shouldn’t spend so much time scrolling, but it’s a tough habit to break; these apps are designed to be addictive,” she said.
“A digital detox is a great way to reset our habits into something more deliberate and to break the dopamine addiction. It’s a way to reclaim space for ourselves, to remind ourselves of who we are outside of our devices.”
WHY SCREEN TIME MATTERS
According to the Australian Medical Association, Aussies are among the world’s most voracious users of technologies such as tablets, computers, music players, smartphones and gaming systems.
The constant need to fill our time with technology not only overstimulates our nervous system, exhausts our cognitive load and disrupts our sleep, it can lead to burnout.
“Our brains need time to reflect and process the events of the day and instead of using our downtime to do that, we reach for our screens and devices to distract us. This gives our brains more information to process and no time to do it in. This lack of downtime can lead to increased anxiety and poor sleep,” Ms Egglestone said.
“We live in a very ‘loud’ world, both actively in the ways in which we keep busy, but also passively in the bright lights and loud noise of living in Melbourne. All of this is input that our brain needs to reflect on, and the longer we go without doing that, the more burned out we get.”
But it’s not as simple as how much time we spend on our screens. It also comes down to context, and the content we’re consuming.
Burnout prevention coach Annika Egglestone
“If we think of measuring time like counting digital calories, it’s one measure and it’s obviously an easy measure, but it hides some of the more complex questions around what is the quality of the content and the context that we’re consuming technology in. So, the question of how much is too much is sort of an outdated question,” said Jocelyn Brewer, a psychologist who specialises in cyberpsychology and digital nutrition.
“We need to look at the actual time we’re displacing. Where the time limits come from is the idea of how much of our day can we afford to give over to technology? We all have 24 hours in the day, but we have very different resources in terms of how we use that time,” she said.
“In the middle of winter when it’s raining your screen time is probably higher than in the middle of a birthday party in summer. Is that too much on one particular day? It might be more than normal, but just like at a birthday party when you probably eat more calories than normal, it’s not necessarily what you’re doing day in and day out.”
WHY WE NEED BREAKS FROM OUR DEVICES
Taking deliberate, regular breaks from our devices gives the brain a chance to reset, particularly during the restorative processes that happen during sleep.
“Sleep is a process by which our brain actually cleans out the waste products of thinking,” Ms Brewer said.
“We have ‘exhaust fumes’ and those fumes are cleaned out through sleep and a process in the glymphatic drainage system.”
Ms Brewer said our eyes also need time to rest and reset.
“When we spend so much time staring at screens our eyes are narrowing and our focus is generally narrowing. We’re not designed for that,” she said.
“We’re designed to look at horizons and look for threats and dangers in the middle to far distance, as well as doing the hunting and gathering under our noses.
“Where your eyes are placed – in yoga we call it the drishti – has to do with what media you’re consuming. I always suggest watching something on a bigger TV is more beneficial than the narrowing of watching something on a smaller screen.”
Businesses are starting to get on board with this trend. Take Amsterdam’s Cafe Brecht, which has a ‘digital detox hangout’ that customers pay to go to for time offline with likeminded people. Participants leave their phone in a lockbox on arrival before grabbing a coffee and committing to spend the next few hours unplugged. There’s a structure to the visit, including time to chat at the beginning, followed by 45 minutes of solo time, 30 minutes to connect with others, and another 30 minutes of quiet time.
The club attracts people of all ages and nationalities, and the trend is catching on.
“Instead of the days passing in a blur of work and screens, we can choose to fill our non-working time with things that fill our cup and nurture our soul; things like creativity, community, laughter,” Ms Egglestone said.
“The more time we spend truly resting and restoring, the less burned out we are, and the more capacity we have to keep meeting the demands of life.”
HOW TO RESTORE BALANCE THROUGH DIGITAL DETOXING
Unplugging during a weekend away once a year won’t cut it. To reap the restorative benefits of the digital detox, it needs to become a regular practice.
HERE ARE FOUR WAYS TO INCORPORATE A DIGITAL DETOX INTO YOUR ROUTINE:
• Set limits on your devices: There are lots of digital wellness tools to help you avoid the scrolling trap. Turning off notifications, especially for social media, will also give you one less reason to reach for your phone.
• Plan offline activities: This could be a creative pursuit, a family games night, joining a club or socialising with friends – anything that gets you away from a screen.
• Take phone-free breaks: Try leaving your phone at your desk when you take a break at work or setting it to ‘do not disturb’ when you go out to dinner. “The more you can get into the habit of only checking your phone if you have a specific reason to, the more grounded and less stressed you become,” Ms Egglestone said.
Learn to recognise overstimulation: Ms Egglestone likens the brain to an overtired toddler. “It will try to keep seeking stimulation, leading to the feeling that you ‘need’ a few minutes of scrolling… stay gentle but firm with your brain and seek rest. Over time, your brain will settle down, and the stress and frantic pace you feel will ease,” she said.
REMARKABLE ROOT VEGGIES
The humble root vegetable isn't the most appealing looking produce, but what they lack in aesthetics they make up for in nutritional value. It’s time to celebrate these unsung heroes of the winter garden by making them a weeknight dinner staple.
SWEET POTATOES
TURNIPS
Beloved for its sweet taste, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, and manganese. The orange and purple varieties are rich in antioxidants, which neutralise unstable molecules that can damage DNA and cause inflammation. Enjoy it roasted, mashed, in soups and curries, and as an alternative to potato chips. Make sweet potato the star of the meal by roasting it whole and loading it with your favourite toppings.
A cousin of broccoli and Brussels sprouts, this cruciferous vegetable is a good source of vitamin C, iron, folate, fibre and calcium. Not only does the fibre provide gut health benefits, it also helps you stay fuller for longer, which can aid in weight loss. Slice or shred raw turnips as a peppery salad topper. Cooked turnips can be substituted for potatoes in mash, roasts, stews and as chips.
CELERIAC
This lesser-known root vegetable, which is related to parsnips and celery, packs a nutritious punch. Celeriac is rich in vitamins K, C and B6, phosphorus and potassium, which helps to regulate blood sugar. A lower-carb alternative to potatoes, celeriac is commonly used in Mediterranean and European cuisines. Its crunchy texture works well in salads, or enjoy it cooked as a mash or in a soup paired with seafood or pancetta.
RADISHES
Radishes are the smaller, fast-growing member of the Brassica family best known for the redskinned type, but also comes in white, purple, black and yellow varieties. Radishes are a source of the phytochemical sulforaphane, which neutralises toxins, reduces inflammation and may also protect DNA. Commonly pickled or sliced thinly and used as a garnish for salads, radishes can also be roasted with garlic or basted with butter and chilli.
BEETROOT
This vibrant taproot boasts an impressive range of nutrients headlined by folate, a vitamin important for heart health. Beetroots are also rich in manganese, copper, potassium, iron and vitamins C and B6. The earthy flavour of this root vegetable can be enjoyed raw in salads, sandwiches and burgers or roasted, boiled or blended in soup. Beetroot can also be used in baking, adding a moist texture to brownies and cakes.
Pain Relief
Thanks to their high levels of beta carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, carrots are known for promoting eye health. But they contain other important nutrients including biotin, vitamins K1, B6 and potassium. Their sweet flavour can be enjoyed in salads but can also be brought out by roasting, glazing or baking in cakes. Carrots are also an affordable and hearty addition to stews, pies and curries.
PROPERTY MARKET SLOW BUT ‘STABLE’
Camberwell’s residential property market has remained stable in a challenging climate of high interest rates and stubbornly high inflation.
The suburb’s median house price continued to rebound in the first quarter of 2024 to $2.7 million, according to data from REIV, after falling significantly in early 2023.
According to realestate.com.au, the median house price in Camberwell is up 0.4 per cent in the past 12 months.
“From our perspective, it’s been a very stable, steady residential market in Boroondara. From apartments right through to multi-million dollar homes, everything is selling and generally meeting market expectations,” said Chris Gillon, head of sales and auctioneer at Woodards Camberwell.
“The year started off busy. There was a lot of stock and the market coped with that. Clearance rates were good through that busy February and March period, in the 70 per cent range.
“The economy has plateaued and we’ve found a bit of a norm now, therefore we’re not seeing any major growth in the market. We're seeing steady growth but nothing exponential.
“Anything from $300,000 apartments to $3–4 million homes; there are buyers at every price point.”
In a steady but slightly soft market, with the clearance rate dropping into the 60 per cent range in the second quarter, sellers have had to remain realistic, said Janssen Xiang, director and auctioneer at First National Real Estate Camberwell.
“More people are needing to sell and the auction clearance rate has not been great. We’re seeing a lot of price adjustments throughout campaigns to meet the market,” he said.
“We’ve seen prices up a bit but it's not great compared to pre-pandemic prices, despite the occasional great sale price.”
One such great sale was the record-breaking sale of Fairholme estate in February. The Georgian mansion on Prospect Hill Rd sold for $14.5 million, smashing Camberwell’s previous highest sale of $10.18 million in 2021.
Of course, Fairholme estate does not represent the general market in Camberwell, with Mr Xiang observing many foreign investors leaving the market.
“A lot of investors got out of the market because of land tax and high interest rates, especially in Camberwell and Kew, which are still highly influenced by the Asian community,” he said.
ACCORDING
TO REALESTATE.COM.AU, THE
MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE IN CAMBERWELL IS UP 0.4 PER CENT IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS.
“We’ve seen a lot of overseas buyers dropping out of the market due to the Foreign Investment Review Board. If an overseas buyer wants to buy anything above $2 million the application fee is now $80,000 plus stamp duty.”
Units in Camberwell performed better than houses in the first quarter of 2024, with the median price increasing six per cent to $935,000 – well above the metro Melbourne average of $635,000.
“For the sub-million market, there are incentives out there – both federal and state – so there is support there,” Mr Gillon said.
“The rental market has been difficult to be in. Rent is expensive, so people are looking for options to get out and own. Why pay very high rent when you can pay a mortgage?”
Looking forward to the spring selling season, Mr Gillon predicts the Camberwell market will remain stable.
“We don’t envisage any major shifts in the market,” he said.
“Prices should increase a little bit this year, which is probably a good sign of a period of sustained growth over time. I think everyone is still a little hesitant about exactly what’s going on with interest rates and inflation, but around Boroondara everyone is pretty astute.
“Family houses are still very, very popular and anything renovated is very popular because building and renovating costs are still high.
“We’re pretty confident the market is going to be in a good place for several years to come.”
FAR LEFT: Janssen Xiang, director at First National Real Estate Camberwell
LEFT: Chris Gillon, head of sales and auctioneer at Woodards Camberwell
RIVETING READS
From compelling non-fiction to thrilling novels, these books will captivate and entertain you.
OTHERS LIKE ME
By Nicole Louie
Part memoir and part exploration of childlessness through candid conversations, Nicole Louie’s deeply personal book showcases the many ways in which people find fulfilment outside of parenthood. Exploring the stories of 14 women from around the world, Louie upends the stereotypes that diminish women who are not mothers and offers reassurance and companionship on a path less known.
THE MIDNIGHT FEAST
By Lucy Foley
It’s the opening night of The Manor, and no expense has been spared. Old friends and enemies circulate among the guests. On the Sunday morning of opening weekend, the police are called. Something’s not right; there’s been a fire and a body’s been discovered. Bestselling author Lucy Foley’s new locked room murder mystery is a sharp and stylish thriller.
BLUE SISTERS
By Coco Mellors
Sisters Avery, Bonnie and Lucky have always been exceptional – and exceptionally different. A year after the unexpected death of their younger sister Nicky, they must reunite in New York to stop the sale of their childhood home. They find that it’s only by returning to each other that they can navigate their grief, and fall in love with life again.
THE BOOK OF ELSEWHERE
By
Keanu Reeves and China Mieville
Actor Keanu Reeves and writer China Mieville team up on this genre-bending epic of ancient powers and modern war. Inspired by the world of the BRZRKR comic books, The Book of Elsewhere centres on outcast B – the warrior who cannot be killed. When a black-ops group asks for B’s help, an impossible event reveals a powerful and mysterious force.
THE TWENTY-SOMETHING TREATMENT
By Dr Meg Jay
Psychologist Dr Meg Jay explores why so many twenty-somethings today are struggling, especially with anxiety and depression. As a seasoned clinical psychologist specialising in the unique challenges of this pivotal decade, Dr Jay dismantles the myth that twentysomethings are fragile beings and explains why medication is sometimes, but not always, the best medicine. In her ground-breaking approach that prioritises skills over pills, she offers actionable advice on navigating the intricacies of work, love, sex, friendship, confidence, health and happiness.
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.
UNCOVER A NEW FITNESS CLASS
Try a reformer Pilates class at KX Pilates or Club AMPM, an aerial yoga class at Little Mandarin, a spin class at Sprinnt, or discover how low impact exercise can have a big impact on your health at Hypoxi Camberwell.
Dancing is a wonderful way to get fit and learn a new skill, so book a class at The Secret Garden of Dance or X-Dance Station.
CAMBERWELL CULINARY AWARDS
Are you a foodie? Do you know where to find the best meal or drink in Camberwell Junction? Do friends always ask you for a brunch recommendation?
The Camberwell Culinary Awards returns this winter and if you love food, now is your time to shine.
Our cafes, restaurants and food outlets will be nominated for an award category which includes ‘best coffee’, ‘best takeaway’, ‘best sweet treat’ and several more.
You can then vote for your favourite dish or drink by entering the competition. All you have to do for a valid entry is purchase a meal or drink from the nominated business and upload a receipt as proof of your purchase.
The winning business will receive an award and you’ll go in the draw to win our major prize of $500 to spend in Camberwell Junction, or one of 10 minor prizes valued at $50 each.
It’s a great way to get involved in our local community while sharing your foodie recommendations!
For full details and to enter, visit: camberwellshopping.com.au
ENJOY WINTER IN CAMBERWELL JUNCTION
This winter, make the most of these unique experiences in Camberwell Junction.
TASTE A WORLD OF FLAVOUR
The culinary experiences of Camberwell Junction span from relaxed brunches to leisurely lunches, and casual and fine dining – and every flavour of the world is covered. For Italian-inspired meals, try family-owned Con Noi Trattoria; Afghan Village is the place to go for authentic Middle Eastern dishes; and La Cabra does Mexican like you’ve never tasted before. If fusion is your thing, check out the Japanese-Australian fusion dishes at Oushou.
GO BAR HOPPING
A discreet prohibition-style speakeasy, Bar None is hidden away, but has a wine and cocktail list that’s legendary. East End Wine Bar calls a century-old building home and offers a great selection of local wines, and Young’s Wine Rooms oozes style and elegance. Finish off the night at East of Everything, a casual and welcoming bar to wind down.
OTHER UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
For lovers of vintage fashion or home decorating, the Camberwell Sunday Market is a weekly must-visit. Immerse yourself in the cinematic experience of the beautiful theatres at Rivoli Cinemas – the perfect place to see the latest blockbuster.
Find your inner artist at Frida’s Sip n’ Paint where you’ll get the chance to paint your own masterpiece while enjoying a relaxed social outing – and a drop of wine. Hats Off Handmade Headwear offers regular classes where you can learn to make your own hat across a range of styles including cowboy, fedora, homburg, and wide brim.
For lovers of snooker, head to Players Snooker & Pool. The venue is one of Melbourne’s oldest and offers three-quarter and full-size tables, as well as coin tables. There are so many wonderful things to do in Camberwell Junction this winter, the only question that remains is which ones to do first!
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.
Want beautiful maternity, newborn or family photos? Emma May Photography offers in-studio and location photo shoots.
SHOP NEWS
BRAVA LINGERIE
835 Burke Rd
Refresh your bedroom or elevate your living room with luxurious natural fibre homewares from Creswick Woollen Mills.
Brava offers lingerie that supports inclusivity and body positivity, with band sizes from 6 to 22 and cups from D to KK. Find on-trend and supportive bras designed for everyday wear, sport, maternity and bridal, and a range of swimwear.
CAMBERWELL FRESH FOOD MARKET
519 - 525 Riversdale Rd
Don’t forget, you can now visit Camberwell Fresh Food Market on Sundays. Select traders are open from 10am to 3pm.
CLUB LIME
513 Riversdale Rd
Club Lime has arrived in Camberwell Junction. With 24/7 access, the gym offers free weights, Olympic benches, powered cardio equipment, and pin-loaded and plate-loaded equipment for a convenient express workout.
ISSABELLA STYLIST
788 Burke Rd
Issabella is an independent stylist with nine years in the industry. She offers hair colour, edgy haircuts, styling and extensions.
KROL FAMILY BAKERY
375 Camberwell Rd
Newly opened, Krol Family Bakery has been baking the highest quality bread for four generations. The store sells sourdough, fruit loaves, traditional Dutch fruit buns, and other artisanal bread.
Buy and sell pre-loved and vintage garments, and access a personal in- house styling service, at Best-T.
NAGOMI RETREAT
949 Burke Rd
New to Camberwell Junction, Nagomi Retreat invites you to discover the art of relaxation and rejuvenation through massage. The calm space allows you to embark on a journey of self-care alongside their skilled therapists and opulent treatments.
OVERTURE
2 Burke Ave
Overture, an Asian-fusion cafe and restaurant, has opened with a new look and feel. The eatery offers breakfast and lunch, seven days a week.
SISU FLOWER
760 Burke Rd
Sisu Flower is passionate about creating exquisite floral arrangements that bring beauty and joy to every occasion. The store offers same-day delivery, seven days a week.
TOAST HOUSE
514 Riversdale Rd
Welcome to Toast House, a new artisanal bakery dedicated to fresh and exquisite bread. From mochi buns to chocolate ganache toast, there’s something to delight the senses.
Camberwell Catch-up is sponsored by the Camberwell Centre Traders Association camberwellshopping.com.au
