Leisures Shoe Boutique Coran bright multi scarf, $49.95. Blaze natural large straw hat, $79.95. Bed Bath N’ Table Jayde beach towel, $74.95. RG Collection Ana Nova woven bag, $79.95. Horn cuff, $155. Red Pearl ME369 love Allison sleeveless dress, $639.
Opening Hours
Monday: 9am - 5.30pm
Tuesday: 9am - 5.30pm
Wednesday: 9am - 5.30pm
Thursday: 9am - 9pm
Friday: 9am - 5.30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Arrival dates of products may vary. Prices are correct at the time of publication. Brands and styles may vary and are subject to availability and change.
stivesvillage
@stivesvillage
stivesvillage.com.au
#stivesvillage
Manifest a Fortunate Life
There’s so much to love about this time of the year. From lazy mornings reading your favourite book to running through the sprinkler on hot afternoons – Summer days are memorable for a reason. But with the good, comes the overwhelming.
Whether it’s planning big gatherings with friends and family, last-minute gift shopping, or back-to-school preparation –the to-do list can feel never-ending. That’s why we’ve made this issue as inspiring and helpful as possible.
Inside, you’ll find a comprehensive gift guide for the silly season while our one-off holiday lift-out has been made even more special thanks to the brilliant Alvin Quah. Not only does the MasterChef alum share his favourite festive recipes, he does so with a kindness and warmth that radiates off the page.
Finally, we’ve captured the season’s energy in our Summer fashion shoot that celebrates stylish pieces that go the distance. Whether you’re celebrating in small numbers or planning your biggest bash yet, we hope this issue offers a moment of calm and connection this season.
- St Ives Shopping Village Team
Step into Summer with zesty, unapologetic
Summer Trending
Scan the QR code for our festive table setting.
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Village Life
The latest news and events around the Village.
Gift Guide
Curated gifts for everyone in your life.
Holiday Style
Fresh Summertime fashion finds.
Back to School
Everything you need for day one.
Leisure
Trending travel, tipples and titles for Summer.
Festive Food Lift-Out
Mouth-watering recipes brought to you by Alvin Quah for Christmas & Chinese New Year.
Pictured clockwise from top left: Book Face Australian Food by Bill Granger, $49.99. RG Collection Katerina Vassou labradorite gold fish necklace, $149.95. Red Pearl POM striped lemon dress, $455. POM Marrakesh summer jumpsuit, $335. Elleran Lingerie Olympia beachfashion, striped bikini, $109.95. Cadolle Paris red lace bralette, $299.95, and string bikini, $169.95. St Ives Professional Skincare Ultraceuticals Ultra Bright Gift Pack, $145 (valued at $183.50). Sussan Lace short sleeve shirt, hibiscus, $99.95. RG Collection Angela Caputi gold resin coral cuff, $210. Black Caviar woven tote bag, $234.95. Leisures Shoe Boutique Pikolinos kamille, neutral, $299.95.
LATEST FROM The Village
Discover what’s on and the events not to be missed.
SAT 29 NOV - WED 24 DEC
Santa’s Post Office
Santa loves reading everybody’s letters, wishlists and drawings at Christmas. Drop them to Santa’s Post box located at the Santa Set.
Level 1, outside Nextra.
TUE 2 - TUE 23
Pet Photos With Santa
Celebrate Christmas with the whole family – pets included!
Book now at www.stivesvillage.com.au. Every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday on Level 1.
SAT 6, 13 & 20
Choir Performances at The Village This Christmas
See www.stivesvillage.com.au for details. 11am–12.30pm.
4, MON 22, WED 24
11 & 18
Black Friday Bonus
Spend $250 in one transaction in-centre and receive a $25 gift voucher. See www.stivesvillage.com.au for terms & conditions.
SAT 29 NOV - WED 24 DEC
Santa Photos
Make magical memories with Santa this Christmas.
Book now at www.stivesvillage.com.au. Daily, opposite Milligram Café, Level 1.
MON 24 NOV - SUN 21 DEC
Rotary Tree of Joy
Select a gift tag from our Rotary Tree of Joy and bring a present to donate to a local in need.
Level 1, near Santa. MON 24 NOV - MON 1 DEC
Free Face Painting 11am-1pm
See www.stivesvillage.com.au for details.
SUN 7 & 21
Free Balloon Twisting 11am-1pm
See www.stivesvillage.com.au for details.
DEC 5, 6 & 7
Free Christmas Wreath Making With Sew Smart
Make a sustainable fabric Christmas wreath.
No bookings required. Level 2, opposite Carolina. 10.30am–1.30pm. For details call Sew Smart 9440 0090.
JANUARY
SAT 3 - SUN 4
What’s On
FEBRUARY
SAT 14
Live Reptile Shows
Get up close and personal with reptiles in these exciting and educational shows.
See www.stivesvillage.com.au for details. 10am–12pm daily
MON 5 - TUE 27
Plaster Fun House
Choose your plaster, paint it, and take it home as your own masterpiece.
Opposite Epoch Imaging, Level 2. 11am–2pm. See website for details.
MON 19 - THU 22
Roll’d Vietnamese Workshop
Learn to make rice paper rolls.
2 sessions daily – 10am & 10.30am. Book at concierge 8422 4009.
WED 28 - THU 30
Free Posca Rock
Decorating Workshop
Decorate tea light holders, ornaments, rocks or BYO items to beautify with POSCA markers. Hosted by Nextra Newsagency.
See www.stivesvillage.com.au.
Level 1, outside Nextra. 11am–2pm.
Valentine’s Day
Vov Dylan performance +1,200 chocolate hearts given out.
See www.stivesvillage.com.au for details.
SAT 21
Free Chinese New Year Event
Celebrate the Chinese New Year with Gordon Baptist Church at St Ives Shopping Village! Enjoy music performances featuring traditional Chinese instruments, try your hand at Chinese calligraphy, and join in creative fan decorating and face painting activities. Bring your family and friends and share in the joy and colour of this festive occasion!
Level 1, outside Nextra. 2–4pm.
News
Win Your Shopping for a Month Winners!
Thanks to everyone who entered our ‘Win Your Shopping for a Month’ competition. Congratulations to our five local winners – Emma, John, Grace, Janelle, and Hillary – who each enjoyed $1,000 over four weeks to spend with Village retailers.
Celebrating 21 Years of Goodtimes
Goodtimes Watchmaker has been servicing the Village for 21 years. To celebrate, they’re offering their loyal customers 21% off their exquisite range of watches and clocks and battery replacements during December.
Festive Giving
The right gift can bring more than a little magic to the festive season. Here are handpicked treasures for all ages, to make giving feel extra-special.
Complement gifts with delicious cakes and treats from Mrs Jones the Baker.
Tiny Treasures
BATH TIME FUN
Clockwise from top left: ECCO Shoes Mini stride sandal, $109.95. Kidstuff Miffy ECO corduroy plush toy, pink, $39.99. Olli Ella circus tent basket, $99.99. Skwosh Mr Pinchy junior swim short, $44.95. Paddington bear, $49.99. Micro Mini deluxe 6-in-1 rock & go LED scooter, olive sage, $299.99. Tambu calm sky instrument, $119.99. Modo Life Kids shoes, blue, $25. Book Face The Big Belly of the Whale puzzle, $29.99. Sweet Thing Lion corduroy, yellow, $34.95. Kidstuff Bello 3-in-1 busy board, $39.99. Bello seasons activity tree, $149.99. Sweet Thing Toshi Swim baby onesie, dahlia, $49.95. Toshi Swim baby bell hat, dahlia, $39.95. Kidstuff Anna deluxe jewellery box, pink, $99.99.
Clockwise from top left: RG Collection Katerina Vassou necklace, $245. Carolina Bianca short sleeve top, $169.99 and matching Casey straight leg pants, Rio print, $189.99. Red Pearl ME369 sara snake headkerchief, $169. Decjuba Ruby denim short, $89.95. RG Collection Trovelore crab brooch, $195.95. St Ives Jewellers Autore pearl ring, $3998. Midas Shoes Stevans leopard slides, $159.95. Witchery Denim swing top, $139. Classic denim short, $129. Priceline Ariana Grande Cloud EDP, 100mL, $70. Ghanda Daisy bikini, $49.95. Trenery Hyams woven sun hat, $149. Yarra Trail Lorne dress, $189. Country Road Scarlett hobo, $199. Cable Melbourne Coast knit top $249. Oscar Wylee Duckworth sunglasses, blonde tortoise, $169. Leisures Shoe Boutique Rae plait bone slides, $249.95.
Book Face Destination Moon by Kate Reid, $49.99.
THE TOWEL, UPGRADED
Floral
Femme
Clockwise from top left: RG Collection Palm Cove dress, $199.95. Blue Illusion Poppy square scarf, $119.99. Z&Y Cashmere and Silk Boutique Mulberry silk blouse, pink, $399. Midas Shoes Tionee nude leather sandals, $189.95. St Ives Jewellers DKNY ladies watch, $299. The Optical Co. Maui Jim Kiopa’a shiny transparent pink/maui rose sunglasses, $389. Blue Illusion Pin tuck linen dress, $249.99. St Ives Jewellers Yellow gold tube hoop earrings, $459. Fella Hamilton Remi bucket bag, $119.95. Real Skin and Laser Clinic Dermalogica A Moment in Nature pack, $285. Bed Bath N’ Table Goldie Christmas scented candle, $43.95. Priceline Marc Jacobs Daisy EDT 100mL, $165. St Ives Jewellers Coeur de Lion white pearl necklace, $399. Elleran Lingerie Mey 1/2 cup bra, blossom, $149.95. Mey brief, blossom, $69.95.
Book Face Dock & Bay quick dry towel, $44.95.
Clockwise from top left: Priceline Viktor & Rolf Spicebomb Extreme EDP 90mL, $225. Book Face Gentleman’s shoe shine kit, $44.95. AHA Technology Bass headphones, $95. Kitchen Stop Bugatti Diva Evolution espresso coffee machine, $2700. St Ives Jewellers Seiko Presage watch, $825. Porter’s Liquor Woodford Reserve Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey 700mL, $70. Shoe Guru Saucony Endorphin speed 4 running shoe, olivine, $199. Porter’s Liquor Hawke’s Brewing mixed can 375mL 8 Pack, $34.99. Kitchen Stop Glass bull sculpture, large, $330. AHA Technology Magnetic phone wallet, $35. Kitchen Stop ZiiPa Piana wood pellet pizza oven with rotating stone, $595. Country Road Toby reversible belt, $99.95. Regular fit organically grown linen shirt, cypress $149.
AHA Technology Travel adaptor, $45.
Clockwise from top left: AHA Technology Portable speaker, $95. Goodtimes Watchmaker Victorinox Swiss army knife, $160. Book Face Giant jack, pair, $72. Priceline Tooletries shower drink holder kit, $39.95. Book Face The Complete Book of Cheese by Anne-Laure Pham & Mathieu Plantive, $69.99. ECCO Shoes Cozmo slides, $119.95. Sportscraft Melange pique polo, sky blue, $79.99. Gazman Geo swim shorts, blue, $69.95. Trenery
Monogram sport sock, $17.95. Kingsman Hair Uppercut deluxe salt spray, $35. The Optical Co. Moscot Arthur spectacles, blonde, $559. ECCO Shoes Flat pouch city crossbody, $319.95. Kingsman Hair Uppercut deluxe matte pomade, $30.
Gazman GAZFLEX Cap bucket hat, $49.95.
Pawfect Picks
Pictured clockwise from top left: Pet Connection Fuzzyard Merry cluckin’ Christmas dog toy, $19.95. Fuzzyard cat collar, sandstone, $14.95. Melanie Newman refresh cologne spray 250ml, $34.95. Melanie Newman refresh shampoo 500ml, $34.95. Melanie Newman refresh conditioner 500ml, $34.95. Huds and Toke Xmas bon bon turkey and cranberry dog cookies, 3pk, $7.95. Fuzzyard cat cubby, French blue, $109.95. Kong Scampers lemur, $25.95. Petsbelle sail cat scratching post, $104.95. Coralpina powermix waste bag dispenser, $30.95 each. Eden 65 timber hammock raised dog bed 80x60cm, $129.95.
from
Pictured clockwise
top left: Priceline Blissful Moments floral complete collection, 7 piece set, $25. Country Road Silk eye mask, $49.95. Demm mug, leek green, $19.95. Nextra 2026 A5 diary, week to view, $43.99. Priceline Gardeners Honey by Ecopure Garden tools & hand cream, 3 piece set, $25. Kitchen Stop Sardines corkscrew, $34.95. Trenery Audrey raffia sun hat, $129. Fella Hamilton Venti reversible bag, $49.95. Bed Bath N’ Table Ecoya mini reed diffuser, guava & lychee sorbet, $29.95.
Village
MASTERCHEF ALUMNI
Alvin Quah Gets Festive
TAKE A SEAT AT Alvin’s Table
Beloved former MasterChef contestant, Alvin Quah is on a mission to share and celebrate his love of Southeast Asian cuisine.
You appeared on two seasons of MasterChef Australia – what was that experience like and how has it influenced your cooking?
“It’s been a rollercoaster but in a good way – even the dip is still a high. When I came back for the second time and did Fans and Favourites, it really reignited a spark within me. What it’s truly offered me though is the opportunity to reconnect with the foodie world and to see how far we’ve come. You can see how hospitality has transformed to include more Indigenous ingredients, more championing of younger chefs, and welcoming more female chefs into the industry. What’s also been profound is the emphasis on the origin stories of our food.”
Have you embraced this in your current approach to cooking?
“Yes! I’ve been telling my stories through online collaborations, cooking demonstrations and writing. It’s given me and my mother a voice, as she’s been my biggest influence
in how I cook and how I juggle and balance flavours.”
The festive seasons invites us to share and enjoy food from many origins with family and friends –what does Christmas in the Quah household look and taste like?
“I like intimate gatherings. When it comes to cooking any feast for any party, planning is important. If you’re doing it alone, you need to plan ahead and find shortcuts. If I’m making a slow-cooked lamb or roast pork, which is always a mainstay in my house, I get a really good quality store-bought sauce, which helps. Ambience is also important to me, so the table has to be inviting and welcoming with good music and lighting. That being said, I don’t do the formal vibe. A lot of my cooking is very rustic. It’s about putting everything in the middle of the table and digging in.”
“The mandarin cake is my mum’s secret recipe.”
How early do you start planning your menu?
“A month before. I don’t believe in last minute because I’m such a control freak. I can’t risk having anything unavailable.”
What do you always include on your Christmas menu?
“Pavlova! I dust mine with icing sugar, which becomes such an ethereal moment. If I close my eyes and pretend, it’s almost like snow.”
What about Chinese New Year? Are there any must-have experiences or dishes you celebrate?
Get Hands-On With Us
MON 19 JAN - THU 22 JAN
Roll’d Vietnamese Workshop
Learn to make rice paper rolls. 2 sessions daily – 10am & 10.30am. Book at Concierge 8422 4009.
“Chinese New Year thrives on the loudness, the vivacity – it’s rich in tradition. It means prosperity. I recommend people visit the suburbs where the population is predominantly of Asian heritage. If you’re eating out, make sure you order the prosperity salad. It’s a huge platter of pickled vegetables with a little rosette of sashimi salmon in the middle. They then crunch wonton crisps on top and put the dressing on the side. You sprinkle the dressing on the salad, stand up with your chopsticks, and toss the salad together as you look at each other and say: ‘I wish you good health, good fortune, good luck’”.
- Alvin Quah
Kitchenware available at: Kitchen Stop, Level 1, Shop 63, 7238 9364. Bed Bath N’ Table, Level 1, Shop 22, 9983 1911. AM-Mart, Level 2, Shop 118A-119. Alvin’s eyewear available at: The Optical Co., Level 1, Shop 83, 9144 6367. Oscar Wylee, Level 1, Shop 42, 8959 7224.
Tradition with a modern edge
Set the Scene for a Festive Feast
Scan the QR code to watch our how-to video.
/01
Coconut Milk-Poached
Lobster Salad
PREP 20 mins, COOK 20 mins SERVES 4-6 AS PART OF A SHARED MEAL - GF, DF
Ingredients
- 1 lobster tail
- 270ml coconut milk
- 1 Pink Lady apple, cut into fine matchsticks
- ¼ cup grapefruit segments
- ¼ cup mung beans, washed and drained
Harris Farm Lobster tail, from $160/kg.
Method
“Chinese New Year is all about opulence, and nothing screams opulence like lobster!”
1. Combine lobster tail, coconut milk and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Ensure lobster tail is covered with cold water. Bring to the boil over medium heat. Simmer for 3-4 min or until just pink. Remove from heat. Drain and remove meat from shell. Cut into slices and set aside.
- 2 Lebanese cucumbers, seeded and cut into fine matchsticks
- 1 cup roughly chopped Vietnamese mint and coriander
- 1 tbsp. sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp. roasted cashew nuts
Dressing
- 2 tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 tbsp. fish sauce
- 1 ½ tbsp. caster sugar
- 1 tsp. sesame oil
2. Toast sesame seed in saucepan over medium heat. Set aside.
3. For dressing, combine ingredients and whisk until well mixed.
4. In large bowl, combine apple, grapefruit, mung beans, cucumbers and mixed herbs. Dress salad and mix well.
5. To serve, place salad mix in a bowl. Top with lobster pieces, sesame seeds and cashew nuts.
/02
Pongteh
PREP 20 mins, COOK 40 mins SERVES 4-6 AS PART OF A SHARED MEAL - GF, DF
Ingredients
- 10 French shallots
- 1 inch young ginger, peeled
- 5 garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp. rice bran oil
- 2 tbsp. preserved soy beans
- 500g boneless pork spare ribs, cut into 4cm pieces
- 2 tbsp. Asian cooking caramel
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 tbsp. dark palm sugar
- 6 small dried shiitake mushrooms, softened and halved
- 3 medium sized potatoes, peeled and quartered
Method
1. Blend shallots, ginger and garlic to a paste (add 1 tbsp. of oil if required to form a smooth paste).
2. In a heavy-based pot, heat oil over medium high heat. Stir-fry paste for 2 min or until fragrant. Add preserved soy beans and cook for another minute. Add pork and caramel and cook for 5 min.
3. Add chicken stock and sugar. Add salt and white pepper to taste. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 min. Add potatoes and mushrooms. Cover and simmer for 15-20 min or until potatoes are tender and sauce thickens slightly.
4. Serve with rice and sambal belacan.
“This is a very hearty casserole dish I always request when going back to Malaysia.”
All specialist Asian ingredients available from AM-Mart.
Chop Butchery Premium pork belly spare ribs, pack of 4, from $15/kg.
/03
Flourless Mandarin Cake
PREP 20 mins, BAKE 60 mins SERVES 8
Ingredients
- 350g mandarins
- 6 eggs
“Mandarins embody the spirit of Chinese New Year. This cake honours that tradition.”
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. bicarbonate soda
- 250g almond meal
- 200g demerara sugar
Mandarin Syrup
- 1 cup caster sugar
- ½ cup freshly squeezed mandarin juice
- Juice of ½ lemon
To Decorate
- 12-18 mandarin segments
Method
1. For the syrup, bring sugar and mandarin juice to a boil in saucepan over medium high heat. Add lemon juice, reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 min. Set aside to cool. Syrup should be sticky and coat a spoon.
2. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced) and line a 20cm springform tin.
3. Bring large pan of water to boil, plunge mandarins in and allow to cook for 10 min or until soft.
4. Drain and allow to cool. Cut in half and remove any big pips.
5. Blend mandarins in food processor.
6. Mix blended mandarins and remaining ingredients in an electric mixer on medium high speed until combined.
7. Pour the mixture into prepared tin and bake for 45-60 min or until a skewer comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool in tin for 15 min before you take it out and leave to cool completely on a rack.
9. Decorate cake with mandarin segments and drizzle the syrup over the cake.
Harris Farm Mandarins, from $0.75c each.
/04
Claypot Chicken Rice
“This is the perfect recipe to zhuzh up your centrepiece on the Chinese New Year table.”
Alvin’s Kitchen Kit
The must-have culinary toolkit Alvin can’t live without.
/05
Mussels in a Tomato & Tamarind Broth
“I love any broth. This one is so easy to make, yet it looks like you’ve gone to a lot of effort.”
/06
8 Vegetable Curry
“I wanted to create something that would be a true celebration of Asian vegetables.” Scan the QR code to
“It doesn’t have to be an expensive wok, but it has to be well-seasoned, so make an effort to get that right.”
– Alvin Quah, MasterChef
Kitchen Stop Emile Henry sublime round 5L casserole sienne, $425.
Kitchen Stop Avanti rough mortar and pestle, $69.95.
Kitchen Stop Nova Star wok, $75.
Kitchen Stop Dexter traditional Chinese cleaver, 20cm, $160.
Kitchen Stop Laguiole Jean Dubost seafood set, $149.95.
Kitchen Stop Avanti bamboo steamer, set of 3, $43.95.
Kitchen Stop Set of 2 Japanese blue ceramic koi bowls, $42.95.
Celebrating Chinese New Year
New year, old traditions. Share the magic of Chinese New Year with these festive and meaningful gifts.
ECCO Shoes Pinch bag, $559.95.
Marc Cain Flame red rethink together knitted dress, $1405.
Porter’s Liquor Penfold’s limited edition Lunar New Year Grange gift box, $1200.
St Ives Jewellers Yellow gold and pearl Gerrim ring, $5990.
Kitchen Stop Tea set, $69.95.
Book Face The Tea Collective wild earl grey tea, $34.95 and tea infuser, $19.95.
Kidstuff Chinese festivals good fortune Lego, $129.99.
St Ives Professional Skincare Ultraceuticals ultra essentials set, $399.
Summer of Style
Summer is for sharing, for socialising and for effortless style. Be inspired from here.
Pictured from left to right: Kit wears: Witchery Draped shoulder polka dot dress, chalk, $179. Midas Shoes Torin woven sandals, $169.95. OPSM Tiffany & Co. sunglasses, bright white, $591. St Ives Jewellers Sterling silver sculptural cross over ring, $169. Maggie wears: Marc Cain Rethink together top, off-white, $565. Gentian wedi printed trousers, $759. Carolina Kaylee heels, nude, $139.99. Blue Illusion Chyka bag, tan, $149.99. St Ives Jewellers 18ct yellow gold Autore pearl ring, $3998. Gold plated sparkling star ring, $139. Gold plated half pave ring, $99. Yellow gold tube hoop earrings, $695. Lily wears: Cable Melbourne Tidal halter neck dress, $449. Midas Shoes Tallulah sandals, pale blue, $179.95. St Ives Jewellers Sterling silver multi twist round bangle, $290. Sterling silver tapered thick bangle, $890. White gold blue oval topaz ring, $2690.
Pictured from left to right: Lily wears: Ghanda Dainty maxi dress, polka dot, $79.95. Luke wears: Gazman Pure French linen long sleeve shirt, sky blue, $139.95. Geo swim short, blue, $69.95. Maggie wears: Trenery Shirt dress, ice blue, $249. Kit wears: Ghanda Celeste blue floral dress, $69.95. Fella Hamilton Corfu pointelle cardigan, butter, $129.95. Tablescaping: Bed Bath N’ Table Cora striped tablecloth, ocean blue, $69.95. Fancy florette solid centre runner, natural, $49.95. Positano set of 4 napkins, $34.99. Cocktail napkins, coretta, $16.95. Short glass tumblers, set of 6, $39.99. High ball tumblers, set of 6, $39.99. Kershaw champagne coupe, set of 4, $49.95. Faux lemon & orange sprigs, $14.95 each. Lime glass sculpture, $29.95. Koi fish vase, pale blue, $24.95. Ecology speckle 12 piece dining set, $159.95. Venezia salad bowl, indigo, $39.95. Porto butter dish, $39.99. Maggie face vase, blue, $19.95. Stanley Rogers 56 piece cutlery set, $349.00. Montclair jug, pink, $29.95.Baker
$34.95. Book Face Here’s How the Emmy tea towel, olives, $19.95. Here’s How the Marley appetiser plates, $39.95.
Pictured from left to right: Kit wears: Sportscraft Liberty blouse, blue multi, $199.99. Liberty mini skirt, blue multi, $199.99. Witchery Mindy mesh flats, fresh white, $159. Lily wears: Cable Melbourne Sandpiper linen top, dark sage, $199. Sandpiper linen skirt, dark sage, $299. Country Road Tessa sandal, oat milk, $159. Bed Bath N’ Table Savona dinner plates, $16.95. Savona breakfast bowls, $12.95. Acacia salt and pepper mills, $29.95. Faux lemon & orange sprigs, $14.95 each. Montclair jug, pink, $29.95. Kitchen Stop Long wooden board, $94.95. Musango pitcher, orange, $115.00. Oil pourer, $49.95. Crystal tumblers, $265. Large drinks tray, $79.95. Book Face Here’s How the Emmy tea towel, olives, $19.95. Porter’s Liquor Aperol, $34.99.
Pictured from left to right: Bed Bath N’ Table Louie throw, mustard, $29.95. Maggie wears: Red Pearl Striped t-shirt, $429. Pineapple trousers, $649. Ecco Shoes Sculpted alba slides, yellow $239.95. St Ives Jewellers Yellow gold belcher chain, $1490. Onyx and diamond enhancer, $2490. Gold plated sculptural cross over ring, $169. Bed Bath N’ Table Wooden tic tac toe game, $31.95. Lily wears: Witchery Button side dress, lemonade, $159. St Ives Jewellers Gold plated double band pearl ring, $139. Gold plated sparkling star ring, $139.
For cruisy days
by the pool
Luke wears: The Optical Co. Ray Ban sunglasses, $245. Sportscraft Linen delave shirt, blue indigo, $139.99. Supersoft tee, white, $59.99. Caffery linen pant, white, $149.99. Nextra Boat International magazine, $17.95. Wild magazine, $14.95.
Pictured from left to right: Bed Bath N’ Table Cilla beach towel, $74.95. Marguerite beach towel, $74.95. Maggie wears: RG Collection Bize knit, lime, $239. Ghanda Pippy one piece swim suit, $49.95. The Optical Co. Miu Miu sunglasses, $630. Luke wears: Sportscraft Blake print shirt, $129.99. Caffery linen short, white, $99.99. OPSM Ray Ban sunglasses, $278. Bath N’ Table Sunkissed beach towel, clay & sage, $74.95. Montclair acrylic coupes, pink, $9.95. Montclair acrylic jug, pink, $29.95. On the image: OPSM Tiffany & Co. sunglasses, bright white, $591.
Laidback living looks as good as it feels
Pictured from left to right: Bed Bath N’ Table Canopy beach umbrella, green, $99.95. Book Face Sage X Clare picnic mat $119.95. Kit wears: Red Pearl POM linen multi pants, paradise stripes, $335. Ghanda Esther top, $39.95. Leisures Shoe Boutique Ramona leather thong, peanut $249.95. Sussan white bangle, $19.95. OPSM Ray Ban sunglasses, $278. St Ives Jewellers Yellow gold multi ball chain, $895. Lily wears: Red Pearl Palm tree knit tee, $279. Ghanda Island shorts, $39.95. Leisures Shoe Boutique Toni Pons Gilda floral sneaker, $189.95. Bed Bath N’ Table Panama calabrisa rectangle outdoor cushion, $29.95. Book Face Look Me in the Eye by Jane Godwin, $16.99.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Kick-Off the Year With Confidence
The leap from lazy beach days to school drop-offs can feel like a big change for the whole family, but with a little preparation, the coming year can be about more than just surviving the semester.
From first-day excitement to settling into a new rhythm – there’s so much to look forward to. Make the most of each moment with small but powerful steps that will help you plan in advance and enjoy a smoother start to the year for the whole family.
Whether it’s stocking up on quality school supplies, sorting uniforms, or meal-prepping those daily lunchboxes, your cheat sheet for your best-year-yet starts here.
Essentials kids love
Not sure what’s popular at school right now? Emma has you sorted.
“Back to school has evolved over the years. Nice journals and notebooks for those older students in high school, as well as Legami erasable pens, which are super fun and really popular with primary school kids.
You can see the difference in the higher quality items, and they tend to last the whole school year. Staples such as glue sticks, exercise books and pencil cases never go out of style, but it’s those calendars, notebooks and student diaries that mentally help everyone get organised for the back to school period.”
Now’s the time to get the household ready for a return to the classroom. From establishing a dedicated homework station that’s stocked with supplies to cleaning out last year’s school bags and adding name labels to new items, prepping these small tasks in advance will make that first week back as smooth as possible.
A wall calendar gets everyone on the same page.
Wish List
Sweet Thing GoBe 2-in-1 lunchbox, yellow, $74.95.
Prep Your Lunchboxes
/03
Essentials – Sorted
It’s not just about purchasing school supplies early – it’s about investing in quality items that will last the whole term. From notebooks to pens, art supplies and visual diaries, these items bring a dash of inspiration and confidence to the new school year. Importantly, consider which supplies from last year can be reused. This isn’t just great for the budget but for the planet, too.
Kidstuff Sassi eco insulated lunchbag, cracky the dinosaur, $39.99.
Modo Life Lovely cat lunch box set, $49.90.
Sweet Thing OmieBox hot & cold bento box, meadow, $89.95
Get your uniforms new-year ready with a freshen up at XL Dry Cleaning and expert tailoring at Azad’s Alterations. Custom embroidered labels from Sweet Thing will ensure nothing goes walkabout once the year’s underway…
Batch-cooking healthy lunchbox and snack options can make all the difference. On weekends, create a rotating menu of your child’s favourite foods and store any pre-made portions in the freezer. This leads to stress-free mornings during the week while ensuring balanced, nutritious meals each day.
Pictured on left page: Nextra 2026 student diary $3.50. Pictured above, clockwise from top left: Nextra Dino squeezie pen $10. Panda click & clack 2 colour pen $8. Butterfly erasable pen $5. Bee erasable pen $5. Hippo erasable pen $5. ECCO Shoes soft 60 leather sneaker $149.95. Modo Life School labels $3.90. Nextra Kawaii tiger pencil case $30. Modo Life Sanrio backpack, $38.90.
Seasonal Snapshot
Whether you’re considering selling during the warmer months, or you’re searching for your dream home, this sun-filled season presents unique opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.
The lifestyle benefits of St Ives and its surrounds continue to attract homeowners throughout Sydney. “It’s the usual story – education, transport, and safety – and St Ives has it all,” says Dominic Smith of The Marshall Group. “These factors do prop up the market, and some positive changes in local schools, both private and public, is also driving interest.”
The warmer months present new opportunities, particularly when it comes to the market increasing.
“If you’re selling, take this time to prepare your house – get it ready for sale and look at any works that need to be carried out,” says Dominic. “Sometimes the littles things make the biggest difference upon presentation.”
Plan your next adventure with our travel experts.
Lean into the competition.
“This time of year is where we see the market increase because there’s more competition for sellers and more choice for buyers,” says Dominic. “Just remember, developers are still the strongest buyers at auction, if the land offers what they want, such as a wider frontage.”
While more young families are moving into St Ives, it’s still a fairly young suburb in its own right. “Compared to Killara, Roseville, or Lindfield – anything on the train line – it’s still a young area”, explains Dominic. “There are a lot of original owners here who built their homes in the 1960s and are only now wondering what to do next.”
The Marshall Group Level 1, Shop 25D, 9061 3176.
Never-Ending Summer
From extended European summers to under-the-radar Asian adventures, here’s where you should be booking next.
“2025 was marked by a more aggressive US border control, which has led to a drop in interest for the US as a destination, and we expect this trend to continue,” says Lionel Bonnafous of Luxeworld. “Europe’s Summer travel season however is extending into the shoulder months of May and September, driven by a desire to avoid peak-season crowds and warmer climates.” With this in mind, Lionel recommends booking European travel as soon as possible. “Early bird offers are out for 2026 and 2027 already.”
Luxeworld Travel Level 2, Shop 131, 9983 1699.
Sold: 3a Mudies Road, St Ives
Raise a Glass to The Silly Season
The ultimate champagne for those special celebrations, this drop is filled with flavour and great value. Louis Morette Grande Reserve Brut NV, $59.99.
Fresh, lively and sparkling – this rosé has arrived just in time for the holiday season. La Vieille Ferme Sparkling Rosé, $29.99.
Known as the leading choice within this very popular category – nothing compares to De Bortoli Limoncello Spritz. De Bortoli Limoncello Spritz, 2 for $30.
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or ringing in the New Year, the summer months call for drinks that refresh and excite in equal measure. From crisp bubbly to chilled wines, we’ve rounded up the perfect picks to keep your glass and hearts full.
Porter’s Liquor - Level 2, Shop 116, 9144 4867.
Fresh from the Adelaide Hills, this Sauvignon Blanc is considered one of the best drops of its kind in the country. Shaw and Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2025, $37.99.
Say bonjour to French elegance. This non-alcoholic sparkling wine is top pick for the team at Porters this season. French Bloom Non-Alcoholic Sparkling, $49.99.
Summer Reading Essentials
From thrillers to memoirs and beyond, this season’s ultimate reading list features something for everyone. No matter where the holidays find you, be sure to take one of these reads along for the ride.
Book Face - Level 1, Shop 6 & 7, 9449 3358.
Gravity Let Me Go by Trent Dalton,
Australia’s top author returns with a gripping new novel. When journalist Noah Cork receives a chilling murder mystery, his true-crime scoop unleashes secrets, danger, and chaos as a storm engulfs Brisbane.
Vagabond by Tim
Actor, singer, icon—Tim Curry has worn countless labels, yet none capture his essence. For the first time, the Rocky Horror legend reveals the extraordinary life and career that’s captivated audiences worldwide for over five decades.
Linger by Hetty McKinnon, $44.99. Hetty Lui McKinnon, bestselling author of Community, celebrates the power of salad to connect people. From sharing bowls in Sydney to becoming a New York food writer, she shows how simple dishes build lasting friendships.
$34.99.
Curry, $55
Black Friday Spend & Save
Spend $250 in one transaction and receive a $25 gift voucher.
Valid on fashion, accessories, homewares, beauty, travel and general retail including pharmacy. Purchases must be made between Monday 24th November – Monday 1st December, in one transaction. Gift Card can only be claimed on the day of purchase. Limit of one per customer per day. Maximum 3.
Conditions apply.
Scan QR code for more details. It takes a Village to Prosper
