Subiaco: Eat Shop Live Christmas 2022

Subiaco Contents

Festive News & Openings 04

Cover Story: A Crafty Christmas 06 Feasts for All 12

news & openings Festive

A

Double

Shot of Goodness

HEAD TO OBI Coffee. where owners Courtis Lovell and Jamie Wolf are serving Toastface Grillah toasties all day long. An extra shot of love comes from their partnership with Micrology Coffee which brings an added dash of cool to Hay Street in their pop-up cafe.

Call in before 1pm Monday to Friday, or Saturday till midday for a toasted light sour pagnotta with avocado, cottage cheese, micro greens and chilli. They’re $10 until sold out.

They're open until December 24 before closing and re-opening in 2023 with a more permanent set-up. Which means you'd better be quick.

Obi Coffee,Shop 2, 500 Hay Street, Subiaco.

Ooh la la!

ROB BREDEN AND his wife, Michelle have just introduced a touch of French magic to the Onslow Road spot that used to house La Petite Mort, transforming it into a bistro called La Bastide.

Having spent the past few weeks doing a complete hands-on refit, the delightful space is now open for business and welcoming curious passers-by onto the terrace for some escargot and a cheeky taste of Provence – a place where the Breden's have spent many a happy holiday.

The menu is a take on classic French bistro dishes such as duck parfait, confit of duck and steak tartare – all with a modern touch.

“Everything is on there for a reason,” says Rob. “There are also some South American wines. Everything listed means something to us.”

As well as being open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday they will open for breakfast on weekends serving pain au chocolat, orange juice and coffee.

Vive la Bastide! La Bastide, 225 Onslow Rd, Shenton Park. Call 0422 269 991.

Feeling blue?

Call The Samaritans on 135 247 for free emotional support counselling for anybody in times of need.

At Stride Shoes Subiaco, they've issued a challenge: they'll find the perfect shoe just for you. Whether you are looking for casual sandals for a hot summer's day or a sneaker for your next adventure, Stride Shoes boasts Perth's best selection in Cabello, Ziera, Django & Juliette, Taos, Revere, Naot, Josef Seibel, Rockport and Ecco.

"Pop in and see us for a pair of shoes, good quality socks or essential shoe care products," says owner Simon. And if you're stuck for a present, why not try a gift voucher?

2&3/112 Rokeby Road, Subiaco. Visit strideshoes.com.au

As a special bonus for Ecco shoe buyers, Stride Shoes Subiaco are giving away a free picnic blanket valued at $50 while stocks last. Conditions apply (see in-store).

Left, Allure claw set diamond and pearl pendant, and below, Baby Bumblebee Keshi ring. Bottom right, claw set diamond and pearl studs.

The Allure of South Sea Pearls

Discover the Allure South Sea Pearls showroom, pictured above, nestled in leafy Subiaco.

Allure’s Perth showroom houses a carefully selected range of luxury South Sea pearl and diamond jewellery. Formerly home to an art gallery, the light-filled building has an impressive façade from the street and minimal, contemporary interiors to allow the jewellery to shine. Whether it’s ready-to-wear or custom-made, Allure’s expert team will deliver a personalised service to ensure you find the perfect piece of jewellery.

Allure designs aim to bring out the singular beauty of each pearl and to capture its story and its mystery. Created by nature, designed for you. Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 1pm.

Allure South Sea Pearls, 316 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

Glamorous with a gritty edge, quirky but pragmatic, serious but still very sexy, Circles of Hair is a bold move into the salon of the future. Inviting, comfortable and genuine, it’s a space designed for maximum experience.

Give something unique on December 25 because a gift is extra special when it’s made by your own fair hands.

BY | Gail Williams

crafty Christmas A very

So this is Christmasand what have you done? Ahem, nothing, as it turns out.

That’s the resounding chorus from many Subiites as they spurn hectic Christmas shopping to check out the plethora of new bars in their suburb.

Here’s a thought for those

suffering anxiety attacks at the prospect of hitting the shops in a panicked frenzy with no plan. Why not indulge in a relaxing, therapeutic, creative workshop and come away with a handmade, carefully fashioned trinket for a loved one?

Subiaco is brimming with crafty workshops where stress evaporates while focusing on making perfume, a teapot, a hand-sewn garment, painting a well-loved pet or decorating a little ceramic pot. The good news is many of these workshops also offer a sip of Christmas cheer while you toil.

Get crafty and be surprised at your own hidden talents. Your friends and family will love you for it.

Bespoke Blends

IMAGE Matt Jelonek

IMAGE Craig Kinder

Bespoke Blends

162 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco 0418 321 296

Visit bespokeblends.com.au

Join the effervescent Jane Hough in her light-filled studio above Citizens of Brew Ha and create a personalised perfume or design a natural soy candle or diffuser. There’s a Christmas workshop on December 11 at 3pm, and the festive cheer will flow through the studio along with the aromas of natural oils. Did I mention the gin-tasting and candle-making? Watch out for that one next year.

Studio Thimbles

113 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco 0450 115 939

Visit studiothimbles.com.au/ sewing-courses

Take the stairs from Subiaco Bookshop and follow the satisfying sounds of whirring and humming to a little upstairs studio. The chorus of sewing machines is music to the soul for the small group of elves happily ensconced there, making a Christmas stocking, a festive apron or a yuletide tote bag with owner Olga Abbott overseeing the work. Olga ditched her job as a process engineer to concentrate on her first love of sewing and is delighted to

share her passion with likeminded lovers of handcrafted garments and homewares. Her classes fill up quickly, but during December, she is holding workshops with a Christmas theme. She also invites time-poor people to make an appointment to check out the wares which make ideal gifts.

Marianne Annerau Handmade Ceramics 0466 611 666

Visit mariannereau.com

“If you smile at my work, I am satisfied. In working with clay, my aim is to inject character into ceramic pieces”. So says

Marianne Annerau who toils away in her Heytesbury Road studio, having made a name for herself creating beautiful cremation urns. But that is not her only forte. The former Tresillian teacher (she’s not taking classes next year) is happy to share her extensive skills on making vases, mugs, sculptures and bowls – all of which make unique Christmas gifts.

Go to her website or phone to make an appointment. And if you love someone, really love them, you would buy them her 24K gold handmade ceramic espresso cup, which sells for $320. Exquisite.

Rokeby Loft

95 Rokeby Road, Subiaco 0423 617 603

Visit facebook.com/rokebyloft Fancy making your own earrings, painting a picture of your pet or favourite bird, creating your own greeting cards or even learning how to read tarot cards? Rokeby Loft provides the space where creativity, connection and innovation come together with the management expertise of Tess Ferreria. Tess enlists well-qualified teachers for all of her workshops and has devoted December to activities with a Christmas theme. Check her Facebook page for dates and prices.

Studio Thimbles

Marianne Annerau

IMAGE Matt Jelonek

IMAGE Matt Jelonek

4 Sistas Sip & Paint

6/183 Rokeby Road, Subiaco 0498 476 123

Visit 4sistassipnpaint.com

An adorable little Blinky Bill koala on canvas is waiting to find a good home for Christmas. But first, you must paint the little fella in a workshop at this fun-filled studio on December 9, where sipping and painting are carried out with equal gusto. You might just discover a hidden talent, but there is a warning. Once you’ve painted your Christmas koala, you may not want to part with him. There are dozens of other workshops, ranging from Van Gogh’s sunflowers to the iconic boat shed at Crawley which might also take your fancy. Check out their website for more inspiration. Classes are often sold out well in advance.

No time but still want to fill loved ones’ Christmas stockings with something crafty, unique and made with dedication and passion? Here are a couple of options:

Fossika

Subi Farmers’ Market

Visit fossika.com.au

Run, do not walk, to Fossika’s Christmas stall at the markets on December 10 and you can join the throng oohing and aahing over little hand-beaded Christmas trees, nativity scenes and felt snowmen.

One of these handmade products will brighten up your family's festivities, and the proceeds will also help support families and communities in Nepal and Africa, where these exquisite products are made..

There’s also magic for other times of the year in the form of felt puppets, mermaids and fairies, along with bowls made from telephone wire. Fossika is all about exploring the natural world and experiencing the wonder of learning while embracing the importance of handcrafts.

Japanese Flea Market Shop 29 17-31 Rokeby Road, Subiaco. 0433 940 608 Those seeking something truly

Fancy having a crack at homemade crackers? Read on . . .

From crackers to crack, we’ve got all the do-it-yourself stuff sorted for the Big Day.

Bored of the terrible Dad jokes in mass-produced crackers? Why not make your own classy, individual ones with your personal touch? And write your jokes which will bring the house down. Include your carefully chosen trinkets; where Cheryl Burton from Kul Kul is happy to help.

Her Rokeby Road store is full of unique jewels and sparkly objects small enough to insert in crackers and win a few hearts.

Let’s get started: What you’ll need:

• paper party hats

• trinkets (Kul Kul have a great range)

• bonbon snaps (available from Spotlight @ $4.90 for 12)

• cardboard rolls from empty foil, baking paper or plastic wrap

• Christmas paper (some lovely Japanese and

Indian ones at Jackson’s or Japanese Flea Market)

• ribbon (Bed, Bath & Table has some festive rolls next to the till)

• double-sided tape or glue

Cut cardboard rolls into 15cm lengths. Cut paper into 30cmby-30cm squares

Thread the bonbon snap through the cardboard roll making sure that part of it hangs out each end of the roll, then put the hat, joke and trinket inside.

Place the roll in the centre of the paper. Roll up the cracker and secure the edge with double-sided tape or glue. Twist the overhanging paper and tie with ribbon.

Decorate the outside with glitter, stickers and trims. Your friends and family will love you for it as long as you don’t use the following hilarious joke: What do you get if you eat Christmas decorations?

Tinselitis!

Boom boom.

IMAGES

Matt Jelonek

broome. 25 dampier terrace. broome wa. (+61 8) 9192 2430 perth. 316 rokeby road. subiaco wa. (+61 8) 9388 3131

cable beach club resort & spa, lobby. broome wa. (+61 8) 9192 6035

different will find a treasure trove of handcrafted unique wares in this truly enchanting store at the bottom end of Rokeby Road. Enjoy a tea with owner Sabrina Wong and you may be lucky enough to meet Keiki, who will explain how to make her beautiful

cold process organic soaps which are on sale in store. Their Mugumi Soap products are free of palm oil, fragrance oil, preservatives and synthetic dye. In fact, they are so pretty you could eat them.

(Ed - please don’t).

And now for

the crack . . .

When it comes to festive entertaining, Subiaco’s busiest woman, Trish O’Reilly, swears by Annabel Crabb’s recipe for Christmas crack. You know the one. It was made so popular by the ABC stalwart on her podcast with Leigh Sales that it caused a run on Salada crackers.

And now as Trish and her husband, Mal Brown, prepare for an extra special Christmas – the first in their brand new ONE Subiaco apartment – she is stocking up on a plate or two of Christmas crack.

The couple will celebrate moving into their new luxury abode with a horde of old Subi friends welcoming them back to the ‘hood.

After 16 years away from Subi they are thrilled to be among the first to move into the 20th floor of Seddon, one of the three exclusive apartment buildings on the iconic old Pavilion markets site. Expansive views from the private deck with private dining and a lounge room

are just part of the package along with a swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, outdoor gardens and urban orchard.

They are delighted to be moving back to Subiaco, where they raised three children in Redfern Street, before their careers took them away from their beloved suburb.

Cherished old friendships formed through Subiaco Primary School, Scouts WA and their love of cycling will be rekindled through catchups at Subiaco Continental, the European-style tavern on the complex’s ground floor.

“We are so excited, both about moving back home, but also to be part of the revitalisation of Subi and the great lifestyle that it continues to offer,” says Trish.

Never known for sitting still, Trish can’t wait to get cracking on Crabb’s quick and easy crack.

Here’s the simple recipe which can be knocked up in less than half an hour, making it the ideal home-baked gift for friends or for a quick and easy dessert.

Japanese Flea Market

Fossika

IMAGE

Matt Jelonek

Ingredients

250g pack of Salada-style biscuits

200g butter

185g (1 cup) soft brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

generous pinch of salt

200g dark chocolate, buttons

50g slivered pistachios

15g dried raspberries

Method

Pre-heat oven to 180°C/160°C, fan-forced. Use a baking tray lined with foil and baking paper, lay out the Saladas in a single layer. Try to fit three Salada crackers in one direction and four in the other.

In a saucepan, melt the butter and sugar together over a medium heat, then

cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. The caramel should be thick and bubbly. Stir in the vanilla and salt.

Take the caramel off the heat and quickly pour it all over the Saladas. Smooth with an offset palette knife, spatula or basting brush.

Place tray in oven for 15 minutes, or until the caramel has darkened to a deep gold. Keep an eye on it, as the caramel can quickly turn. When it’s a good, dark colour, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Sprinkle the chocolate over the toffee. As the chocolate over the pistachios and raspberries.

Allow your salted caramel

pieces and store in an airtight

Foodie treats: Simon Johnson & Louis Boeglin

IMAGE C raig Kinder

for all Feasts

Christmas is the perfect time to make a brunch, lunch or dinner date in Subiaco, says Ed Gillard. Take your pick from highend dining to relaxed outdoor cafes.

Subiaco is such a special place at this time of year – try to resist feeling Christmassy as you stroll through the pretty streets, shopping for gifts, picking out new outfits for festive dos or just enjoying the build-up to the big day.

And one of the most lovely things about our perfectly formed suburb is that, whatever time of day, if we’re feeling like a bite to eat or a refreshing treat, we’re spoilt for choice as far as places to pull up a chair goes.

Let’s take a look at some of the wonderful cafes, bars and restaurants that you should definitely find time to drop into this Christmas season.

As far as back gardens go, it’s hard to beat The Little Pantry in Nicholson Road. This pretty little café offers superb coffee, imaginative breakfasts and scrumptious cakes and pastries to die for,

all in a relaxed, dog-friendly environment. Check to see if their in-house chef has knocked up their delicious Christmas fruit and mince tart – and ask about their range of vegan treats supplied by the very talented Chris' Kitchen.

Later on in the day, head to Bar Amelie on Rokeby Road and bag a spot on the deck. This fantastically laidback venue offers lunches and dinners designed to be shared, and they are also masters of great wine and cocktails.

Book now to make sure you have a spot to try their Christmas menu. There’s an array of treats, including Shark Bay scallops, mushroom arancini or tomato bruschetta to start, Linley Valley pork belly, roast Angus beef fillet or confit duck leg for main –followed up, of course, with Christmas pudding with brandy Anglaise, if you’ve still

IMAGE Ryan Cubbage

got room. Catch live music at Bar Ameie's Supper Club series, which runs from 9 to 11pm featuring local musicians most Saturdays during the run-up to Christmas.

If a night out dining with live music is your jam, and if you want a spot of top jazz while you wait for Santa, check out Bark on Hay Street.

This super-friendly little neighbourhood bar which is renowned for its share plates and charcuterie boards, as well as its great beers, wine and spirits, has live jazz every Wednesday from 7pm ’til 9pm.

And if you want to get your Saturday night off to a fun start, why not drop in from 4pm to 6pm for one of their bottomless cocktail events –$65 buys you a grazing board full of yummy treats and two hours of bevvies, be they cocktails, house bubbles, wine or beer.

If you’re feeling more Feliz Navidad than Merry Christmas

as the big day draw nears, check out La Condesa on Hay Street. This is the bright and airy must-try destination is where you’ll find Talummeets-SoCal Mexican cuisine in Subiaco. Expect seasonal cocktails, locally-sourced seafood and authentic tacos on a menu that offers traditional classics, plus some contemporary twists.

If people-watching is your thing, then grabbing a table outside Juanita’s on Rokeby Road is the place for you. The bohemian bar offers a prime

Naughty and nice Opposite, fresh oysters make a delicious start to your Christmas celebrations at Bar Amelie, while La Condesa's cool SoCal vibes get the party started. Left, Juantia's legendary parfait is unmissable, while Bark's continental rolls are a great go-to when you need a break from shopping. Above, Lady of Ro's sensational Greek menu hits the spot.

position to watch the world go by, as well as boasting an interior bursting with character. One of our favourite games is “guess where the chair’s from” – the furniture takes eclectic to another level. Oh, and the food and wine, of course, is just superb.

Right next door, Lady of Ro is a BYO hot spot that will transport you to a harbourside table in Corfu. Don’t miss the halloumi and slow-cooked

lamb (and grab a bottle or two from Vintage Cellars on Nicholson Road) before you take your seat.

Smack bang in the middle of it all is the beautiful old girl that is The Subiaco Hotel. On the corner of Rokeby and Hay, this traditional Aussie watering hole offers up everything you could wish for – a steady stream of theme nights and events, plus every big sporting event. Is there a

Eat better place to settle down for the Boxing Day Test?

Dilly Dally on Rokeby Road, meanwhile, offers a sophisticated but laid-back menu and is just made for catching up with friends over Italian-inspired food, fine wines and craft beers. While you’re there, check out Bar Loiter, Dilly Dally’s partner in criminally good nights out. The Rowland Street bar is perfect for a pre-show drink or an all-nighter with your best buds.

FILL UP Clockwise from left, Asian dishes from Koba, Restaurant Caleb's signature lobster dish is a showstopper, El Peruvian Food Co's pork slider is a real gem, and Boucla offers a brilliant brunch

One of the best things about Subi is its diversity, and if you’re looking for fine Asian dining, then Rokeby Road offers up Koba, a wonderful new venue whose mission statement is to combine the traditional cuisines of Asia with the contemporary cooking techniques and disciplines of the kitchens of today.

In the mood for something Gallic? Say no more, monsieur et madame, we have the perfect pied à terre for you in the form of Bloody French, also on Rokeby Road - don't

miss their Raclette (think gooey cheese and potatoes). New addition La Bastide on Onslow Road is serving up contemporary versions of country French bistro classics, and a continental breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays.

Staying in Europe, but heading down a bit and to the right, fans of top-notch Italian food can also find it on Rokeby Road at Piccolo Trattoria, or at Caleb Restaurant and Bar on Railway Road. Can’t decide which one to try – hey, it’s Christmas, why not try both?

In need of refuelling after some Christmas shopping? Head to Boucla on Rokeby Road, and try to resist their stunning breakfast and lunch menu. It’s also a useful spot to head to for a last-minute, unique gift.

An enticing alternative is Layers, where everything is, as they say themselves, French-baked that morning. The bustling café on Station Street has pastries so good you’ll never get away with pretending you made them yourselves, as well as possibly the most perfect filled

baguettes in the southern hemisphere. Louis Boeglin Patisserie on Bagot Road is the place to head for a show-stopping sweet Christmas centrepiece - place your festive order and pick up some speciality tarts or pastries for dessert while you’re at it.

And our list of candidates for top deli definitely includes The Wholefood Circus on Nicholson Road, which should really be your go-to local gourmet providore. Check out their Christmas Catering Menu online, a mouth-watering list

Is there a better place to settle down for the Boxing Day Test?

of ready-to-serve or readyto-cook dishes that will make your festive gathering the toast of the town. If caviar’s on your must-have list for Christmas Eve, Simon Johnson on Rokeby Road has an excellent selection and

some of the most beautifully wrapped foodie gifts in Subi.

After all that, I think we deserve a drink – and a few places spring to mind. If you haven’t checked out the Golden West Brewing Co on Hay Street yet, then just what have you been doing instead? This welcome addition to our bar scene has a long history behind it – it’s the rebirth of a quintessential West Australian brand that produced beer and other brews for three-quarters of a century until the 1970s.

With that amount of experience, you know you’re in for something special. In the mood for some fizz? Head just down the road and take

a pew on the cute deck out the front of Lums Wine Bar, another heritage building given a new lease of life by the team behind Bark Bar. Don’t miss their marinated Fremantle octopus and pork, mushroom and truffle meatballs for a simple snack with your

frosty Prosecco or unoaked chardonnay.

Alternatively, drop into Fenway off Rokeby Road for upmarket pub grub and boutique beers in a laid-back space that perfectly captures the community-within-a-city essence of Subi.

Visit Subiaco’s new custom framing studio and art gallery on Rokeby Road.

Talk to owner Philip Morrison about all your framing needs. Discover limited edition prints of the whimsical art of Dr Seuss in a gallery dedicated to this beloved artist’s work.

Spend some time with all your favourites and choose a very special Christmas gift this year from The Cat in The Hat, Horton, The Grinch, The Lorax, Oh, The Places You’ll Go as well as some of his lesser known stories and Secret Art.

All prints are available for sale with free, same day, local delivery.

Hanging service also available.

83 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

T: 0409 485 920

E: philip@iconicartandframing.com.au

W: iconicartandframing.com.au

ICONIC ART GALLERY & FRAMING

Louis Boeglin Patisserie

Simon Johnson

Are you in the mood to be merry and bright yet? If you answered no, we get it, Christmas is a stressful time. But we’ve got the ideal solution: a little jingle juice in the form of festive Christmas cocktails.

BY | Tori Wilson

It’s beginning to look a lot like cocktails

While you can expect to wander the streets of Subiaco on any summer’s evening and be charmed by the vibrant selection of boutique bars and alfresco dining illuminating the area, we have an extra sprinkle of festivity to put a spring in your step in the lead-up to Christmas — a carefully curated Christmas Cocktail Trail featuring eight of Subi’s best bars, from now until the big day.

Bar Amelie

With a string of London wine bar openings under her belt, Kat Dehavilland, with her business partner Kim Knight, opened the chic Bar Amelie in May this year and has been crafting tantalising cocktails and curating an impeccable wine list for the locals of Subi ever since. So, naturally, their Christmas special is another treat of high calibre — Amelie’s White Christmas Margarita.

“Kim is obsessed with tequila. Obsessed,” says Kat when sharing the thought behind the beverage.“

“It’s not something usually people associate with Christmas, so I decided to make it a tequila, fresh lime juice

and coconut cream cocktail, with fresh pomegranate and rosemary to season.”

The drink looks deliciously decadent. Served over ice in a rocks glass rimmed with salt and desiccated coconut, the red pomegranate pops against the white like Santa in the snow.

“The hint of sweetness and touch of tartness from the fresh lime and pomegranate, plus the coconut, pairs beautifully with something like our pan-fried garlic chilli prawns or pork belly with chilli caramel glaze,” says Kat.

As another option for those looking for that traditional Christmas fruit and spice, Kat’s also crafted an Amelie’s

Raspberry Christmas Bellini with fresh raspberry syrup, a hint of star anise sugar syrup, topped with prosecco and finished with frozen raspberry.

Named after Kat’s favourite film, Amelie is all about sharing and paying it forward; the venue is all about coming together for good food, company, and conversation. Kat says there’s no better time to share in that ethos than Christmas.

Keep your eye out for Bar Amelie’s upcoming Christmas Eve set lunch, or pop in for live music hosted every second Saturday.

Lums

Detailed with quirky, handsketched graphics, exposed brick, and an eclectic collection of wine bottles lining the walls and windows, Lums’ cool, minimalist aesthetic and heritage facade is something you’d expect to find in Melbourne’s edgy area of Brunswick.

Having opened in August this year, the boutique, winecentric bar is serving some seriously good vino, with a petite, wine-inspired cocktail list to complement.

“I’ve tried to keep our cocktails all wine forward, which is something I haven’t seen done before,” says bar manager Ariene Dubois, who’s poured hours reading through old wine-based cocktail recipes to get the results right.

“The cocktail I’ve come up with for the Christmas Trail is a twist on an old classic called the Kir, which originated during the prohibition period when people just started adding crème de cassis to white wine to make it taste better when it was scarce and started to go off.”

Titled The Drunken Snowman, Ariene has put her own spin on the classic recipe, using a locally-sourced fresh raspberry sorbet with Louis Bouillot Methode Traditionnelle sparkling from Burgundy and crème de cassis, carefully built and served in a Champagne coupe.

“I always drink Champagne for Christmas, so that’s really nostalgic,” says Ariene.

Like raspberries on toast, the sorbet's beautiful creamy consistency and sweetness complement the bready, brioche notes of the Methode Traditionnelle perfectly.

Subiaco Hotel

With over 100 years of history serving good food and drink to locals, the Subiaco Hotel really is a staple institution and a bit of an icon in the area.

Situated on the opposite corner to the majestic Regal Theatre, the hotel’s Christmas cocktail theme was inspired by a recent showing of The

Grinch and the joy brought by the performers who stopped by for a post-show nightcap.

“The last night, all the actors and crew came here and pretty much did a little short live show for us, and it was really awesome, really fun,” says assistant manager Sunao Susaki. “When I saw that, I thought, that would be a good idea.”

Appropriately named The Grinch, Sunao’s Midori and white rum-based cocktail is visually theatrical, being a brilliant apple green, with a contrasting red sprinkle rim, popping maraschino cherry and candy cane for flair.

Shaken over ice with fresh lemon and lime before being served in a short glass topped with lemonade, it’s like a sour sherbet melon lolly that’s likely to take you back to childhood (with the bonus of booze).

Little Things Gin

There’s nothing that says Australian Christmas quite like pavlova, so, Little Things Gin bar manager Jack Duffield has taken inspiration from his mum’s very own and delivered a drink designed to make all merry.

“Mum’s pavlova is this homemade, mixed berry pavlova that’s fresh, sweet, creamy, silky smooth. It’s absolutely amazing,” says Jack.

Using their own Little Things Gin Australian Dry gin made

with cassia bark, native thyme, and a spicy hint of cinnamon, Jack has built a dessert-style sour, served in a tall glass and topped with soda to keep it light, fresh, and smashable in the summer heat.

“We love using a dry gin to balance out our cocktails with a fruitier profile,” says Jack. “We’re using a home-made mixed berry syrup along with a berry compote, taking inspiration from a Clover Club, some soda, fresh lime juice, garnished with freshly cracked meringue and fruit on top.”

Indicative of the drink’s name,

the Aqua-Fablova, aquafaba is also added to produce a silky, creamy texture that’s reflective of the Australian favourite.

A lofty, industrial-style space, with lush greenery draped about the bar and a light breeze blowing through, visit on a Sunday afternoon for Little Things Gin’s new Sips 'n' Shucks event series, featuring oysters, martinis and all-day drinks specials.

El Peruvian Food Co.

Serving up authentic, South American cuisine to the backdrop of Chi Chi artwork and Latin music, there was really only one option for El Peruvian’s Christmas cocktail spirit that would be true to character — pisco.

Co-owner, with husband and head chef Ian, Robyn Gatjens has taken the signature Peruvian cocktail, Pisco Sour, and spun it with juicy watermelon for the most refreshing Australian summer twist.

“In Australia, with hot Christmases, I think of a whole watermelon being cut up and shared with the family on the lawn after lunch,” says Robyn.

This slightly sweet and citrus

sour sensation, garnished with mint, is dangerously easy to drink. Pair it with the traditional Peruvian dish cerviche for a hit flavour combination that’s ideal for the warm weather that comes with an Australian Christmas.

“Our approach to food is real food with flavour. We make all of our cocktails and food with love and passion,” says Robyn.

. . . with hot Christmases, I think of a whole watermelon being cut up and shared with the family on the lawn after lunch

coming up, sitting out on the deck in the sunshine

Bark

If you’ve been to Bark, you’ll know it’s a bit like walking into your mate’s loungeroom, where you feel at ease with a beverage in hand and potentially a board game on the go.

Celebrating five years in March, Bark is your friendly neighbourhood hangout with a classic West Australian vibe.

Bar manager Cassie Barrett says a putting a twist on a classic is their go-to style when it comes to building tasty cocktails that will please the crowds.

“Our Christmas cocktail is basically a Tommy’s margarita

with house-jalapeño-infused tequila, agave and lime juice muddled with chili flakes and basil,” says Cassie.

“It’s great for summer coming up, sitting out on the deck in the sunshine. Refreshing, light, perfect for an Australian Christmas.”

With plenty of fresh zesty lime and a spicy kick, the sweetness of the agave cuts through perfectly, while aromatic basil exudes from the drink and peppers it with pops of vibrant green.

Try the marinated Freo octopus for the ultimate summer afternoon pairing

Dilly Dally

Effortlessly classy, Dilly Dally’s simple interiors with a hint of heritage make the ideal backdrop for seriously good food and wine with flavours that sing.

The cocktail list here is just as carefully considered, with their Christmas cocktail no exception.

“Our cocktail is called

Clover Club, using Four Pillars Christmas Gin, 23rd Street ‘Not Your Nannas’ Brandy, Alpe Amaro, citrus, egg white and spiced cranberry.

“I grew up in England so Christmas to me is all about those spicy, comforting flavours that evoke a sense of relaxing in a log cabin with a roaring fire. Moving to the southern hemisphere has meant paring back those rich, intense flavours a little to make them more refined and grown up, as well as more refreshing to stave off that summer heat,” says Eden.

Pavettone and incorporates elements from Christmas desserts from around the world — Christmas pudding, pavlova, and panettone,” says operations manager Eden Najran.

The drink itself is a riff on a

Classic flavours of Christmas pudding — brandy, dried fruit and spices — really work to elevate the tone of the pudding-based gin in this festive delight; yet it’s carefully balanced with an Alpine amaro to accentuate the pine needle notes of the gin’s juniper, and made light and textural with the addition of citrus and egg white.

Served straight up in a sophisticated nick and nora glass and garnished with panettone, it’s one to sing carols about.

It's great for summer

The Unicorn Bar

A sleek and stylish bar with simple black interiors, The Unicorn Bar is a locals' favourite for a midweek suburban escape, and its Christmas cocktail is just one more reason it’ll lift your spirits.

Manager Robyn Hunkin has drawn on childhood memories of red jelly tarts to come up with her tantalising Salted Rhubarb creation — a mix of rhubarb liqueur, white rum, fresh citrus and simple syrup.

Robyn says she selected rhubarb as the star ingredient as something a little different to the norm and for its candyred Christmas colour. Rimmed with white salt and paired with dehydrated lime to garnish for a classic Christmas flair, it tastes as good as it looks.

Enjoy drinks alfresco and leafy green spaces as you soften into the festive spirit, one sip at a time.

Don't miss. . .

La Condesa's Horchata Eggnog, a celebration in a glass with Reposado tequila, house-made horchata, coconut, frangelico, salted caramel, agave, walnut bitters, with a creamy finish.

and the botanics

Beauty

Local artist Olive Cheng credits the Subi Farmers Market for a tree change in her careerfrom teacher to artist. Gail Williams discovers more about this talented creative’s work.

If Olive Cheng were a tree, she would definitely be a Eucaylptus Caesia.

You know the one – the delightful West Australian evergreen, better known as Silver Princess, which stars so beguilingly in May Gibbs’ Snugglepot and Cuddlepie.

So it’s no surprise to find that it is Olive's favourite flora and features in many of her beautiful, botanicalinspired artworks on show at her regular stall at the Subi Farmers Market.

Olive blends in well as the Silver Princess. Her eyes are the same colour as the long, slender grey-green leaves. The bright pink of the gum blossom is reflected in her clothing and her hair is almost the silvery colour of the gumnuts.

It’s no wonder she has quite the following on the bottom tier of the markets, just in front

of the swimming pool.

That’s where her muse and regular companion, McNulty, a cheeky dalmatian who keeps an eye out for doggy treats, holds court while Olive takes customers through her works, which feature gumnuts, blossoms, kangaroo paws, bottlebrush and banksias. They pop up on cheeseboards, coasters, Christmas tree baubles, sun catchers or much bigger

beautiful with a growing band of regular customers admiring my stuff and buying it.”

Olive, who was born in Subiaco, grew up in Ballajura, and spent her childhood visiting Whiteman Park, where she was introduced to an abundance of native flora but wasn’t immediately drawn to it.

“Funnily enough, I wasn’t that keen on it back then,” she says. “It was only when I was studying landscape

paintings, where she uses pyrography (writing with fire) and acrylic paints to bring them to life.

Since giving up primary teaching to concentrate full time on her art, the former landscape architect has never looked back after taking up her stall only in August last year.

“The markets are a lovely and joyful place to be,” she says. “Everyone is happy to be there. The stallholders are like a family and have definitely shaped my life. It was through the markets that my art became a lot more bold and

architecture that I really got into hand-drawing the plants for part of my course and realised how much I loved it.”

Though she has never been formally taught, she was a

naturally creative child who watched her grandfather, a carpenter using wood-burning tools, inspiring her to follow his technique which requires a very steady hand and fine

motor skills.

Her work has been featured in local community exhibitions and been acquired by private collectors locally and overseas. House of Cards, the south west winery showcases her works which sell for between $25 and $2,000.

In the lead-up to Christmas, she will hold free workshops at her stall showing customers how to make the baubles, wreaths and sun catchers, which would make ideal gifts.

For more info check out her website at olivechengart.com

Cats and hats and green eggs and ham

A new gallery devoted to the work of beloved artist Dr Seuss is attracting lovers of his famous creations from far and wide. Gail Williams shelves her inner Grinch and heads to Iconic Art Gallery & Framing.

There’s a happy new place at the bottom end of Rokeby Road.

It’s not hard to find. Just head north towards the railway station and look for Iconic Art Gallery & Framing, a light-filled space with red-and-white striped hats dangling in the window.

As festive as that might sound, the hats have nothing to do with St Nicholas, Father Christmas or Santa Claus.

It’s a permanent exhibition devoted to the beloved American children’s author Dr Seuss and his iconic artwork, as well as books and merchandise featuring

the popular Cat In The Hat, Green Eggs and Ham and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

Step inside the imaginary world of Dr Seuss – whose real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel – and you might find the owner, Mary Morrison, talking to her husband, Philip, in rhyme:

“Look at me!

Look at me!

Look at me NOW!

It is fun to have fun

But you have to know how!”

The response from Philip, the talented craftsman who frames the prints at the studio out back, is good humoured.

“She talks like that all the

time,” he laughs. “I can never understand her.”

It’s not surprising that customers – who have been flocking in since the gallery opened a few months ago – also break into rhyme as they check out the famous limited edition prints straight from their favourite childhood books.

The colourful works, some originally in crayon, some watercolours or acrylic, are surrounded by familiar quotes:

“You can find MAGIC wherever you look. Sit back and relax. All you need is a book,” and “why fit in when you were born to stand out?”

The Morrisons have certainly stood out in the short time since they have been welcomed to Subi. They had already made friends with customers of all ages who are also avid fans of the cartoonist who wrote and illustrated 60 children's books and sold more than 600 million copies during his career, including stints as a political cartoonist and illustrator before he died in 1991.

Philip is thrilled at the gallery’s overwhelming success after moving here from Queensland – where they had a similar gallery in Montville on the Sunshine Coast – to be closer to their son, after COVID.

Dr Seuss, he says, has brought him out of retirement to indulge in his longtime hobby.

“I have always loved Dr Seuss,” he says. “I grew up with the books from a very early age. And have done a lot of research on him.”

Although Iconic is not the only Perth agent for Dr Seuss works, it is the only place where customers can walk away with the framed print on the same day as purchase.

The price for prints starts at $1,100 with the Cat In the Hat being one of the most popular.

The Cat That Changed The World has sold out at $9,000 as has Green Eggs & Ham for $8,500.

“They just bring back happy memories of people’s

childhoods,” says Philip. “You see people walk in and they are full of smiles just looking at the artwork. Our biggest customers are young married people.

The Morrisons also offer a hanging service and will visit customers’ homes to advise on the best places to put them.

“They are suitable, not just for nurseries, but for any room

in the house.” says Philip.

And, as a matter of interest, just who was the Grinch who stole Christmas?

“I don’t know,” says Philip. “But he’s as cuddly as a cactus. And as charming as an eel. A really bad banana with a greasy black peel.”

Iconic Art Gallery & Framing, 83 Rokeby Road, Subiaco.

B/W chanel key ring $29.95, St Lucia. 2. 18ct yellow gold diamond drop earrings $3,790, Linneys. 3. Star drop earrings $34.99, Ilsie Boutique. 18ct gold diamond initial necklace $1,400, Ecali. 6. Trovelore butterfly brooch $155 Kul Kul. 7. Diamante headband $29.95, St Lucia. Koi Girl bag $118, Japanese Flea Market. 9. BFF one piece, $229, Elleny Swim. 10. Cooler tote bag, $99.99, Vila Kula. 11. Simone Perele Singuliere in black and gold bra $149.95, Bikini $79.95, Hidden Lace. 12. FitFlop Vitamin FF Metal Pop Coral Sneaker $199.9, BStore. 13. Baby Bee Stud Earrings, Allure, $1,890 14, Simple Pearl Strand Bracelet, from $ $2,850, Allure. 15. Essential Oil Soap and Candle Gift Set (Aventurine) $22, Bespoke Blends 16. European heavyweight pillow cover, $55, Bedtonic. 17. Rug, POA, The Rug Establishment. 18. Napoleon Perdis Acid Flowers xmas colours $75, Pharmacy 777. 19. 18ct yellow gold, ruby and diamond Art-Deco inspired ring, $8,950, Thomas Meihofer. 20. Elite Custom Cushion Hydrangea Bird $399, Heather Levi. 21. Myrtle & Moss trio bath wash/bathe lotion Mini HC Bergamot $49.95 Bed, Bath & Table. 22. Patrizia Pepe Mirage Turquoise handbag $799, Dimario Italian Shoes. 23 Savannah tall round large plant pot, $629, Glow. 24. Gold Nugget Kal Diamond Pendant, $2,150, Smales. 25. Sparkle tissue box $99.99, Ilsie Boutique. 26. Unisa Zdream fuschia sandle, $249, Marie Claire. 27. Pink square canister $14.90 Kul Kul. 28. Gemstone thongs $69.99 Ilsie Boutique. 29. Red & silver earrings, $129, Kul Kul 30. 18K Yellow Gold Australian South Sea Pearl & Diamond Bangle, $11,290, Willie Creek. 31. Ecco Soft 7 sneaker, $269.95, Stride Shoes. 32. Glasshouse 'Under the Mistletoe' candle, $59.95, Pharmacy 777.

HISTraditionally tough to buy for, fear not if you have a tricky Dad, brother or male friend to treat this Christmas. Here's some inspo to make the toughest He-Man smile on Christmas Day

SECRET SANT A

Keen to make Secret Santa a little more imaginative than a pair of socks this year? Look no further than our collection of creative Kriskringle ideas to fill stockings this year.

1. Green desk sign $7.95, Kul Kul. 2. Christmas ball $19.99, Dallimores Homewares. 3. Norah Jones I dream of Christmas LP $63, & Nostalgie Disco Funk LP $90, Sound One. 4. Spatular set $19.95, Dallimores Homewares. 5. Almond & Citrus Panforte $10.35, Simon Johnson. 6. Cat In The Hat tote bag $19.95, Iconic Gallery & Art Framing. 7. Tony’s Chocolonley $12, Wholefood Circus. 8. Valrhona 16 Truffles $36.45, Simon Johnson. 9. Angel $25, Japanese Flea Market. 10 Cote Noire white/gold candle $49.95, Hidden Lace. 11. Olive Oil Spray $43, Simon Johnson. 12. Kaze/Wind Incense $25, Japanese Flea Market. 13. Gin O’clock $32.95, Wholefood Circus. 14. Wooden Matryoshka Xmas dolls $39.99, Bed, Bath & Table. 15. Christmas-themed toilet roll, $10.95, Dallimores Homewares. 16. Striped hot air balloon Santa ornament $12.99, Red gold green ornament $12.99, glass donut with sprinkles $8.99, Bed, Bath & Table. 17. Annabelle Trends dog mix reusable bag $15.9, Phamacy 777. 18. Spanish at Home $49.99, & Bowls & Bento $45, Subiaco Bookshop. 19 & 20. Black Soap $20, & Ortigia Diffuser $120, Plane Tree Farm. 21. Urban Jungle Yuzu & Bergamot room mist $25, Spoilt. 22. Ortiga set of 4 Soaps, $75, Plane Tree Farm 23. Who Let the Dogs Out? game, $19.99, Dymocks. 24. Monista Melba Tea $36.95, Simon Johnson. 25. Christmas card $7.95, Dallimores Homewares. 26. Bio Orto Extra Virgin Olive Oil $69.95, Wholefood Circus. 27. Mumm champagne $57, Vintage Cellars. 28. Santa mug $24.95, Bed, Bath & Table. 29. Waterproof Sphere Balls, pair, $344, Glow.

LITTLE ONES

Seeing little faces light up on Christmas morning is one of life's great joys - so why not make things extra special with this collection of pressies for tiny babies to pre-teens.

1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Peekaboo Christmas $16.95, Dymocks. 2. Bebe baby suit $39.95, & 3. Bebe dinosaur baby suit $42.95, Hidden Lace. 4. Happy Heart book kids $14.95, Table Culture. 5. Dinosaurs $13.99, Dymocks. 6. Korimco green dragon $44.95, Hidden Lace. 7. Snuffy Light $35, Cottage Garden. 8 Uno Flip $10, Target. 9. Speedy pull back race car $12.99, Pharmacy 777. 10. Floss and Rock rocket puzzle, 12 piece $23.99, Pharmacy 777. 11. Gingerlilly Knit $39.95, Cottage Garden. 12. Stacking toy Modern Bunny $39.95, Spoilt. 13. Journey of Something May Gibbs Memory game $30, Spoilt. 14. De Danse Fairy set $195, Plane Tree Farm. 15. Pets trivia 50 quiz cards $17.95, Spoilt. 16. Make Your Own Fabric Animal Toy Kit, $6.90, Crossways Wool & Fabric. 17. Speedy pull back chicken $13.99, Pharmacy 777. 18. Avanti Push Ups ice block moulds $14.95, Dallimores Homewares. 19. Daniel Smith 10 Watercolours Master set $173.95, Jackson's Drawing Supplies. 20. Tiger Tribe Mix & Match bath mates Aussie animals $32, Spoilt. 21. Korimco orange fox $18.95, Hidden Lace.

Festivities with friends

Subiaco locals are gearing up for a Christmas with all the trimmings. Gail Williams finds out how they’ll be spending December 25th.

For some Subi-ites, it’s not Christmas until they’ve sung The First Noel at Lake Jualbup. For others, it’s only when the big, jolly guy dressed in red and white strolls down Rokeby Road. For many it’s the ritual lighting of the tree outside the council offices.

Mark Coughlan Pianist, Chairman of OpusWA Arts Orchestra and Chorale Artistic Director of New Year’s Eve concerts at the Perth Concert Hall Owner, The Orangery Gallery 320 Onslow Rd, Shenton Park 9386 8818

Visit facebook.com/people/ The-Orangery-Gallery

“Christmas, like all festivities, is best celebrated with music,” says Mark Coughlan, the affable owner of one of Subiaco’s most charming galleries, housed in a beautifully restored 120-yearold old former deli.

He should know. Having lived in Shenton Park for 25 years, he has garnered a huge following as he combines music with the visual arts to

But many locals have their own unique way of spreading the Christmas love. Here we meet a few of the City’s more colourful characters putting their indelible stamp on our community’s Christmas vibe.

After all, it wouldn’t be a Subi Christmas without them.

create symphonic harmony and wide public acclaim.

If you haven’t done so yet, take a peek into the Orangery Gallery – not just to check out the Steinway, but for his annual Christmas Art Show which features works by local artist Michael Doherty, ideally priced for Christmas gifts.

Currently, he’s busier than a workshop of Santa’s elves as he oversees several music events – all with a festive theme.

First up is Handel’s Messiah concert on December 9 at St Joseph’s Church in Salvado Road.

Then, on December 19, he’s conducting Christmas In The Quad at St George’s College in front of 1,400 people picnicking while a 50-piece orchestra plays popular

classics with soprano Rachelle Durkin leading the carols.

It’s Mark’s favourite time of the year, despite the busy schedule. He does allow himself a Christmas morning indulgence when he heads to the beach with his two German shorthaired pointers.

“This is followed by a bottle of exquisite Champagne and some Rottnest lobster then I’m back to work!” he says. “Catch-ups with friends and family usually take place in the lead-up to Christmas Day.

“I also love seeing family and friends at the restaurants and bars around Subiaco. Lulu

La Delizia is my favourite for a long pre-Christmas family lunch. Drinks with some of my artists and colleagues at Cherubino Cellars is always great fun. And my go-to Christmas shopping favourites are Table Culture, Dallimore’s and, of course, Simon Johnson, where indulgence should actually be encouraged at Christmas!

“I love Norman Vincent Peale’s famous quote about Christmas: 'Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful'."

Robbie Burns

Owner Cluedunnit, Creative Director, Writer and Performer A Christmas Carol, December 17, Subiaco Arts Centre, 180 Hamersley Road, Subiaco Visit cluedunnit.com.au/

It’s all “bah” and “humbug” for the actor who earns a living by playing the literary world’s most famous cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas. But Robbie Burns is actually quite the charmer who loves, loves, loves Christmas. He’s as light as a feather, happy as an angel, merry as a schoolboy and giddy as a drunken man as he prepares for his role as Ebenezer Scrooge in his oneman show, A Christmas Carol, at the Subiaco Arts Centre on December 17.

The veteran British actor has spent the past 50 years starring in musicals such as Fiddler on the Roof, Mack and Mabel, Hello Dolly and Goodbye Mr Tom. So playing Charles Dickens’ most famous curmudgeon comes easily to him, as do the other 23 characters in the 60-minute show – including Jacob Marley, and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future

Robbie – who hails from Bristol – wrote the play, basing it on Dickens’ most famous work, which was published in 1843 at the end of the Industrial Revolution. He has performed it before high school audiences and at The Maj to great feedback and believes the story sums

up Christmas better than any other work.

“It’s about the true spirit of Christmas,” he says. “It’s about love. At the end you have this very angry, skinflint of a man who has gone through a transformation and realised the importance of love.”

He also believes that it was through Dickens’ novella that the celebrations of Christmas, which had fallen out of favour in 19th-century England, became popular again.

“With A Christmas Carol, Dickens helped reorient Christmas to focus on humanitarianism,” he says. “He popularised the phrase “Merry Christmas” and helped Christmas become a day for feasting and family. And he also instilled a collective yearning for a white Christmas.”

Robbie and wife, Debbie, emigrated to Western Australia four years ago to be closer to their son, Reuben and his wife and their two children.

Together they started their business, Cluedunnit, performing Agatha Christie-style murder mysteries at The Maj.

But the Burns family are not yearning for a white Christmas this year. They have established their own tradition of spending Christmas around the pool with their family.

This year, though, it will be just the two of them at home.

“We love Perth,” says Burns. “We are so happy to be here.”

And the Subiaco Arts Centre is happy to have them.

Edwina and Larry Cherubino

Owners, Cherubino City Cellar, 169-171 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco. Visit citycellar.com.au

When your name is Cherubino, Christmas is the perfect time to unleash your inner angels and cherubs. That is definitely the case with Edwina and Larry Cherubino, residents of 20 years and one of Subiaco’s most popular couples. They regularly pour Whispering Angel rosé from Provence for their pre-Christmas customers at Cherubino City Cellar, along with Cherubino’s own Laissez

Faire riesling and his Ad Hoc prosecco.

But the lead-up for them this Christmas has been hectic, with dramatic changes to their staff line-up and menu. With the departure of the enigmatic Will Roser, former Bread in Common man, Jonathan Diaz took on the role and has just become a proud father to add to the mix.

There’s also a new chef, Aarin Fraser – with stints at the Loose Box, Friends, Windows and Henry M’s on his resume. He’s tweaked the menu adding a vanilla panna cotta, and vegan and gluten-

free dishes, but kept old favourites like their beloved Nonna’s meatballs.

They also welcomed Clement Dufeu to the team as the new sommelier.

Christmas Day, then, will find the Cherubinos lounging around their swimming pool in Subiaco with their three boys after a relaxed brunch polishing off Pitta di San Martino, fruit mince pies made by Larry’s mum, Natalina.

Larry usually cooks up an evening feast of roast something in the pizza oven serving it with greens, salads and roasted peaches filled

with homemade chutney (a nod to Edwina’s mum).

“The last few years we have been having a prawn cocktail to start and usually oysters,” says Edwina. “Dessert is always a trifle, sometimes a pudding (if Larry’s sister has made it) and often my take on tiramisu – think lots of booze, dark chocolate and raspberries. Oh, and lots of Champagne and wine of course. And this year a few martinis I think to get the ball rolling.”

All washed down with a top-notch Cherubino drop, of course.

Rachel Torre

Owner, Wholefood Circus, 107 Nicholson Rd, Shenton Park, 6380 2196

Visit wholefoodcircus.com.au

Ssh . . . don’t say this out loud but there really is a Father Christmas. Well, a Mother Christmas, actually. And she lives in Shenton Park at Wholefood Circus under the pseudonym of Rachel Torre. You’ll be lucky to see

her at this time of the year, though, as she is usually out the back with her band of 30 busy helpers curing salmon gravlax, making fruit puddings, baking bread and panforte and roasting turkeys – all so her faithful and very grateful customers can enjoy their own Christmas day feast without having to lift a finger.

Wholefood Circus is the goto local providore and artisan delicatessen which has

Rachel and her crew working 24-hour days in the lead-up to Christmas catering to the demands of busy hosts.

Think table-ready glazed ham on the bone, roasted beef fillet, Exmouth prawns, potato dauphinois, fruit mince pies, traditional Christmas cakes and calico-wrapped puddings. All you have to do is pick it up.

As for Torre’s own celebration? Don’t be silly.

“We spend the day sleeping, and celebrate on Boxing Day,” says Rachel. Of course they do.

HANDWOVEN ART RUGS

BY

Available at Heather Levi Interiors 439 Hay Street, Subiaco E dena@denalawrence.com.au | M 0427 466 796 www.denalawrencerugs.com.au

Ephemeral feeling, captured in courageous brushstrokes, taking on magnificent woven form.

We spend the day sleeping, and celebrate on Boxing Day"

Justin Linney

Creative Director, Linneys

37 Rokeby Road, Subiaco, 9382 4077

Visit linneys.com.au

It’s been a right royal year for Justin Linney as he slotted into his new role of creative director with the family jewellers, overseeing a long jubilee celebration culminating in a huge party at the Rokeby Road store and a launch of their Art Series Collection of 50 exquisite pieces.

But fresh from the gala party – and competing in the Eagle Bay Epic, a mountain bike, ocean swim, kayak and trail run in November - he is looking

forward to a quieter Christmas with his daughter, Elle, and wife, Cat, around the pool after a morning trip to the beach.

Cat prepares most of the salads and seafood while Justin takes over the barbie.

Ask him if he has a favourite Subi spot that symbolises Christmas and, not surprisingly, he flashes back with “Linneys!”

“It’s our busiest time of year. It’s so exciting to see our loyal clients in store each year buying a special gift that can be treasured forever and handed down through the generations to be worn and enjoyed,” he says.

“Sometimes the parents let

the kids choose the presents for the husband/wife which is fun; they probably don’t realise that one day they will be wearing it and how symbolic it will become.”

Christmas in the store, for the Linneys’ clan is the culmination of months of preparation, making new pieces of jewellery in the workshop, getting all the packaging and bags ready, looking over the visual merchandising and ensuring an enjoyable shopping experience for customers.

“It’s really an honour to be involved with our clients’ special occasions like Christmas,” he says. “It’s a

privilege to have that trust with our clients becoming our friends as we develop relationships with the family and the kids. Seeing the family grow, we truly feel a part of their family and they feel a part of the Linneys family.”

It's really an honour to be involved with our clients' special occasions like Christmas."

Luke Foyle

Owner/Operator, Juanita’s Bar, 341 Rokeby Road, Subiaco Visit juanitasbar.com.au

He’s always been known as a cheffing maestro, but in the lead-up to this Christmas, Luke Foyle will be donning a genuine musical hat and honing his post-punk and alternative rock lingo as he joins Nick Cave and Warren Ellis on their 15-show Australian Carnage Tour.

No, he’s not singing. But he will be backstage for the duration of each show as he prepares a feast for the hungry boys and five band members at the end of the performance.

The well-loved Juanita’s chef, known for his in-house made parfaits, terrines and charcuterie at Subi’s go-to bar, scored the gig – which goes from November 20 to December 18 – through his mate, Paul Sloan, of Billions music agency.

But Luke, who immediately packed together his own oneman show of cooking utensils and equipment to go on the road, will not be cooking up those Juanita’s favourites.

“Nick Cave is a pescatarian, says Luke. “It’s a new menu for each night, and I will be on the hunt for great produce in each city and see where it takes me. I will have the time to go to the suppliers and producers each day. I really like to start with what ingredients are looking really nice and come up with

the dishes around them.”

The tour starts in Adelaide and ends at the Sydney Opera House, taking in Perth, Canberra and Hanging Rock along the way.

“I’ve never been to the Opera House, so I am looking forward to that,” he says.

And, as a fan of 70s and 80s metal and 90s hip hop, he’s never really listened to much Nick Cave.

He’s happy to make the switch.

As for Christmas, when he returns from the tour, Juanita’s will close from Christmas Day to January 3 so he is looking forward to a relaxed break with his girlfriend, Lily Rossen, of Rossen & Cook catering.

“We will spend lunch at Lily’s nana’s place and then dinner at my business partner, Jeremy’s place,” says Foyle.

“He’s family now too.”

Make it a date at Bar Amelie’s Supper Club

Indulge in a cocktail or whisky paddle with a cheese board accompanied by live entertainment from 9pm December 10th, 24th and 31st, followed by every second Saturday in the new year

118 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

To book: admin@bar-amelie.com.au

WITH | Beverly Ligman

Sparkle time

Bev Ligman is ready to glow like a festive bauble this season - and has some suggestions about how to shine from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day.

Raise your hand if you love Christmas as much as I do?

For me, it’s not just the eating, drinking and being merry that I adore; it’s also the sparkly make-up, gift sets and beauty bits and bobs you can find in stores at the most wonderful time of the year. To my mind, Christmas and sparkles go hand-in-hand, and what better way is there to embrace it than to slick on a glittery party eye or light a festive candle? Use these products as your Christmas gifting inspiration, or maybe a well-deserved treat for yourself. Happy shopping, and whatever you do, don’t forget to celebrate your successful present haul with a festive glass of cheer on the way home. You deserve it!

Sparkling skin at Ella Baché

IF YOU NEED to spoil your skin before Christmas, make haste to Ella Bache, recently named the ‘Salon of the Month’ of the Ella Bache group. The salon offers a range of treatments including a fantastic signature facial and fake tan, which you can literally have on a (long) lunch break.

Ella Bache, Shop 16, Subi Square Shopping Centre, 29 Station Street, Subiaco.

Glasshouse ‘Night Before

Circles of Hair wins top salon honour

CIRCLES OF HAIR Subiaco has been named Salon of the Year by the Australian Hair Fashion Awards for 2022. The award is a huge honour for the Subiaco salon, which has won the coveted accolade two years in a row. No stranger to the limelight thanks to their work with celebrity Katherine Langford, providing her with a showstopping

copper makeover that made headlines around the world in magazines such as Elle, Girlfriend, InStyle, MTV, Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Refinery29 and W, Circles of Hair is also the go-to salon for Perth’s social set for special events and festivals.

You can find Circles of Hair @ 1/513 Hay Street, Subiaco, Ph: 9388 3110.

Events

Merry Moments

(Every Friday afternoon from 25 November to 16 December)

Join us every Friday afternoon during the festive season for free live entertainment, Christmas carols, Santa visits and other magical moments. For more info about all the festive fun happening in Subiaco this season, visit SeeSubiaco.com.au/

Urban Wine Walk

(Saturday 3 December)

The streets and laneways of Subiaco will come alive this December as a lineup of the neighbourhood's best venues transform into an Urban Cellar Door for you to visit on a selfguided wine trail!

How does it work, you ask? Simply decide which venue you'd like to start from and you're off. Choose your own adventure as you and your friends move from venue to venue tasting delicious wines thanks to our incredible line-up of Australian winemakers. More info at seesubiaco. com.au/urbanwinewalk

Christmas The Sunset@Subi Christmas Concert

18 December • Lake Jualbup

A heart-warming concert to share with family and friends, featuring all your favourite Christmas tunes, plus a special appearance from Santa.

Catch a show this Christmas at the Regal Theatre

The War on 2022

Some of the biggest names in Australian satire are coming to take you on a dazzling journey through the most ridiculous, tumultuous and flat-out frightening year since 2021.

December 14

A Celtic Christmas Hot off the heels of over 250 performances, the creators of A Taste of Ireland are bringing a bit of Irish charm down under this festive season.

December 22 to 30

Peter Pan

All children, except one, grow up. Will the boy who never grew-up rid Neverland of Captain Hook forever? Will the Darlings find their way home to London? And, most importantly, do you believe in fairies? A traditional panto to ring in the festive season.

January 5 to 7 Andy’s Amazing Adventures

Andy is on his time travels again meeting all kinds of animals, big and small, existing and extinct! This family production will entertain everyone with its creature chaos and educational fun.

January 13 to 14

Circus The Show

Roll up! Roll up! Prepare to enter a world of whimsy, wonder and amazement where your imagination will soar like never before, in this completely re-imagined family circus spectacular!

This multi award-winning family magic show is returning to Perth once again with more whimsical wonders than ever before! Having garnered international acclaim with sellout seasons across the globe, stars Sam and Justin will be hitting the stage with brand

new illusions direct from Las Vegas.

Joining them will be the enchanting ringmaster, Perth fan-favourite Magnus Danger Magnus, who, after searching far and wide, has finally found The Greatest Magic Show –and will do everything he can to keep it on track.

February 3

An Evening with David Sedaris

A savant of razor-sharp and sardonic wit, don’t miss your opportunity to spend an evening with one of the world’s preeminent humour writers.

February 18

Eric Bibb

One of the world’s leading bluesmen of our time and two-time Grammy award nominee, Eric Bibb will come riding onto Australian shores in 2023! Grounded in the folk/blues tradition, with contemporary sensibilities, Bibb’s music continues to reflect his thoughts on current world events, whilst remaining entertaining, uplifting and inspirational.

A Celtic Christmas

David Sedaris

SAVE THE DATESubi Spritz returns!

In 2022, Subi Spritz transported hundreds of visitors to Subiaco to southern Europe this Autumn for four days and nights of la dolce vita.

Subiaco hosted more than 15 events that shared life’s simple pleasures, from the aperitif, the digestif and everything in between.

To all the amazing businesses, suppliers, special guests and attendees who got involved – grazie!

We’re already planning next year’s event and can’t wait to see you all again. To

be the first to know about all things Subi Spritz, follow along on socials or sign up to the newsletter for updates. Visit subispritz.com.au and start dreaming of the next Subi Spritz from March 16 to 19, 2023.

Shop 'til you drop at Subi Farmers Market

Bag yourself a unique gift at Subi Farmers Market during the run-up to the big day. From fun doggy pressies to beautiful arts and crafts, as well as locally produced food and drink, the markets are a hive of activity at this time of year. It's held from 8am to noon every Saturday, at Subiaco Primary School, 271 Bagot Road. Remember the markets take a few weeks off after Christmas and will be back late January, 2023.

ONE FOR THE DIARY

A day of Ideas

Djinda: The Stars

Once again, let's gather at Subiaco Arts Centre for a day that celebrates the sharpest minds and innovative thinkers living and working in Western Australia. Join in three bold panel discussion sessions as we all explore the enduring effect of the stars on scientific and creative processes. Then end the day in the gardens, sharing food and looking out at the night sky.

18 February, Subiaco Arts Centre, tickets from $19$39. Visit perthfestival.com. au to purchase tickets.

Prizepack

Father Christmas

GAIL WILLIAMS is pleased to report that the Big Guy guy in red and white is every bit as jolly as his publicity agent said he would be (although he may have been enjoying a generous pour of sherry at the time of the interview).

GW: When you and the reindeer are flying over Subiaco, what is the first identifiable landmark you spot, and what emotions does it evoke?

FC: This year, I will have ONE Subiaco to guide me into my usual landing spot on the roof at the Subiaco Hotel where I will park the reindeers while I deliver the gifts to the new families. It makes me so happy that ONE Subiaco will bring families to Subi. Subi Hotel always puts out grass for the reindeer and a little something for Santa.

GW: What is the most touching interaction you have had with a family in Subiaco? One which drew tears to your eyes?

FC: I’m always pleased that the churches in Subiaco do so much for the homeless. What also makes me emotional is getting pictures and letters from the children at the Subiaco library, I take them home and Mrs Claus puts them up on the fridge, so I see them all year.

GW: Why is Santa always so jolly, and what is your “jolly place” in Subiaco?

FC: I’m always jolly because Christmas is such a special time of sharing love to everybody. My happy place is the Subiaco library, and that’s because the librarians are lovely and welcome the families to the library year after year and sing songs with everyone. My favourite song is Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

GW: What do you think of Subi chimneys, and do you have a problem getting down any?

FC: I love that Subiaco has

Why I love Subiaco ...

so many old houses with chimneys. I don’t really have any problem getting down them because although I might look big, Mrs Claus has me on a strict diet for most of the year. I just ask all owners of Federation and Victorian homes to give the chimney a quick sweep on 22 or 23 December.

GW: Where would Santa find the best tipple of whisky or sherry in Subi?

FC: Lums is one I would like to try because it is in an old building and has a chimney. Also, Bark because of its name. I believe it would be friendly to dogs and reindeer.

GW: Best spot for a reindeer carrot?

FC: Farmer Jacks. The reindeer are vegan and lactose-intolerant.

GW: After eating all that Christmas cake, where do you have a sneaky little workout in Subi?

FC: Lords is my favourite place for a work-out. Mrs Claus has got me doing yoga, and they do a good class there with lots of jolly people. Some even dress up in fancy dress just for me. And they have a good Christmas party with loads of food.

GW: Any funny moments you have experienced while spreading the good cheer?

FC: Once Whisk Creamery tried to give the reindeers ice

cream but I had to say no because the reindeer can't drink milk.

GW: If you have run out of gifts in the sleigh, where is a good place to stock up in Subiaco for those emergency gifts?

FC: I sometimes pop into the Japanese Flea Market because I love their unique, handmade gifts, which fits into my philosophy. The reindeer are bit frightened of the fleas, though. Merry Christmas to you all!

To meet Father Christmas in Subiaco, head to seesubiaco.com.au for his schedule.