The
Insider
2010
Welcome to Melbourne! We know settling into a new city can be a little daunting and confusing. The Insider is here to help. We have collected articles and recommendations from local and international students who know the city inside out. These students know how to enjoy the city! They know where to find the best nightclubs, cafés, restaurants, markets, shops and everything in between. They have either lived here for a long time or been forced to discover Melbourne by themselves! Throughout the next 100 pages, you will get the ‘inside word’ on how to enjoy Melbourne and its surroundings from those who have done it before. Learn where to go to find the best Aussie beers, incredible outback adventures, wildlife experiences or maybe just a place to see some live music. This is not a survival guide... This is a guide to help you make the most of your time in Melbourne.
4
Getting Around Shopping
12
30 Eating Out Nightlife
44
58 Explore Events
76
82 Useful Info
The Insider Team www.insider.net.au Make sure to join our Facebook group to connect with local and international students!
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
3
Getting Around
Understanding the public transport system is a confusing experience. Depending on where you live in Melbourne, public transportation may be a big or a small part of your daily routine.
On Foot Walking from place to place has both benefits and disadvantages. It keeps you fit and will help you gain a natural sense of direction within your city. You will come across new places and things that you never would have seen on a public transport. Also, it’s cheaper than constantly paying for public transport and much cheaper than paying for parking which can be extremely expensive. If you want a free map, go to the Melbourne Visitors Centre on the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets. If you are centrally located, there is a
visitor booth in Bourke Street Mall. If you want a more high quality and comprehensive map, try your local post office or petrol station.
Trains, Trams & Buses Timetables Trains and trams are by far the most convenient way to travel within the central districts. Before attempting to catch a train or tram, find yourself a timetable and station map or see the online journey planner at the Metlink website: metlinkmelbourne.com.au Timetables are available in hard copies too from the Metshop on Little Collins St and at most major train stations. If you are looking to get information via a phone, you can call the Metlink hotline on 131 638.
4 w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
There are some late night services provided over the weekend for those who like to go out and party. However, as a general rule, public transport stops at about midnight. Tickets Tickets can be purchased at many train and tram stations via ticket machines or customer service desks. Tickets can also be bought on-board buses and from a number of retail outlets including newsagencies or post offices. If you are really organised, tickets can be bought over the phone or online. There are a number of different ticket options to be considered when using public transport. The general rule is that the more trips you purchase on a ticket the better value for money. For example, if you buy a 2-hour Metcard, you can use it as many times as you want within 2 hours. You can also purchase Daily Metcards, which allow you unlimited travel on one day within a certain zone. Daily Metcards are about 25% cheaper if you buy five of them at once. Monthly and yearly tickets can be purchased too. Although this can be quite expensive, if you are using public transport often, this will save you money in the long run. Remember that there are two separate zones. If you are travelling outside the central zone, different ticketing requirements apply. Unfortunately, unless you are on an approved overseas exchange, full time overseas students are NOT able to buy
6
Getting Around
student concession tickets You will need to become a permanent resident to get this benefit.
Got an iPhone? Both MetLink and Yarra Trams have FREE iPhone apps with loads of features. Grab the Metlink app for train and bus timetables and a journey planner. Also, grab the excellent tramTRACKER app and take control of the trams!
Travelling Always remember to travel safely, and read the signs at both the station and on-board. If you are sitting and someone standing is elderly or disabled, it is polite to give them your seat. In priority seating sections, this is enforced by law. Being caught with no ticket or with the wrong ticket comes with an expensive fine. Also, it is not a strange practice in Australia to thank the bus driver.
safety Often international students choose cheap accommodation in the outer suburbs, which happen to be in some of the worst areas in terms of crime. If you have chosen to live in these areas to save money, you have to be careful and try to avoid going home late at night. Saying that, we know that many international students are forced to work late and go home to these areas late at night. If you are in an area that makes you feel unsafe, we recommend walking with friends and in well lit areas. Also, stay confident and try not to show off your valuables. Remember that the number for the police, ambulance and fire brigade is 000. There are also safety devices that can be bought, such as a personal alarm. These can be bought from most major electronic stores like Dick Smith Electronics www.dse.com.au.
Taxis Finding a Taxi Taxis (cabs) can be found in their designated ranks. These spots are usually clearly sign posted near major hotels, busy streets and shopping centres. Flinders Street Station has one of the biggest ranks in central Melbourne. There are a number of taxi totems (poles) around Melbourne. Standing at these will help taxis to notice you. If the light on the top of a taxi is on, this means that this taxi can be hailed by raising your arms
w w w.insider.net.au
and waving to it. If it is not on, it has a passenger inside already and will not stop for you. Most taxis are yellow in Melbourne. Fares Taxis are not always cheap. Make sure you follow the meter in the front that counts the cost. Some late night taxi trips will be asked to be paid for in advance. There may also be additional charges for late night services, phone bookings or for using freeways. Taxi Companies Put these numbers in your phone now:
Embassy Taxis 13 17 55 Silver Top Taxis 13 10 08 13 CABS 13 22 27 Arrow 13 22 11 You can find more information regarding how to get a taxi in Melbourne and where to catch them on the Transport Victoria website: www.transport.vic.gov.au
Buying a Car Elyse Lloyd Have a think about what is the best car for you. Big engines have the power, but they cost more to run. Small cars are cheap to run and they’re easier to park, but older models may struggle to get up to high speeds. It’s best to do some research before you go out looking. The Trading Post (a newspaper for second hand buying and selling) runs a comprehensive section on cars. Other classifieds are available in other newspapers too. On the Internet you’ll be able to compare many cars from car yards in one place, i.e. on CarsGuide.com.au. This will give you a good idea of the average price you’ll pay for the car you want. Once you’ve been looking for a while, then you should know what kind of car you want and can afford. Private sellers and dealers have their advantages and disadvantages. Private sellers are good because they know the history of the car, and you can sometimes get great deals. However, don’t expect a refund if the car breaks down. They have no obligation to do that. A dealer does offer some guarantee of quality, with warranties offered with cars. However, you can expect to pay 30% more for a second-hand car from a dealer compared to a private seller. Here’s a tip - If you go to car yards, then only look at the car once before going back to buy. If a salesperson knows that you are really keen, they may try to get more money out of you. At the same time, don’t act careless and don’t offer too little for a car, otherwise they may not take you seriously as a buyer. Offer less than what you are willing to pay on the first offer and work up. Always test drive the car and remember the RACV, Victoria’s trusted motor authority! You can also get any car you are interested in checked by an RACV approved mechanic to make sure it is in good condition. Joining the RACV is also good because they provide 24-hour roadside assistance, in case your car breaks down.
Drive safely! The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
7
Photo: Josh Liba
Bikes
Human Powered Cycles 562 High St, Thornbury
By Fiona Loughnane & Shahiman Said www.wemakestuffgood.com It’s cheap, it keeps you fit, it’s fun – a bike is one of the best ways to get around Melbourne. There are some great bike paths. You can check out most of them at the Bicycle Victoria website, which is also a great place for all your bike questions and queries: www.bv.com.au/bikes-&-riding/122/ Bike Shed at CERES (Centre for Education and Research in Environmental Strategies) Corner of Roberts and Stewart Streets If you want a reliable but inexpensive bike .or to build your own masterpiece, you can’t go past the CERES Bike Shed. The Bike Shed is a volunteer on-site group at CERES www.ceres.org.au. Their aim is to promote cycling in the local community by teaching people how to fix their own bikes. Membership is $5 per year for students. Bike Shed members can use the tools on site and get free training from volunteer mechanics.
Bikeshops Cecil Walker Cycles 395-397 Elizabeth St, Melbourne This is one of the most eclectic bike stores in Melbourne. It also has the biggest online bike store in Australia available at: www.cecilwalker.com.au
A great place to get a new or refurbished second-hand bike, Human Powered Cycles even has maintenance workshops for the budding bike enthusiast. Ashburton Cycles 277 High St, Ashburton This is the place to go for classic Californian cruisers. It is worth travelling for. Loco Lowriders 36 Johnston St, Collingwood Not only does Loco sell a great range of lowriders, cruisers and choppers, it also runs awesome day rides that usually end up at the pub.
Bikerental Rent-a-Bike Federation Square Rent-a-Bike is located at Federation Square and has a huge variety of bikes, maps and advice for all types of riders. Bikes are priced at $35 a day. The Humble Vintage Bike Hire Co. This shop in the city has a good selection of classic and vintage racers for hire. Rates are $25 per day / $70 per week. Flexible pick up and return anywhere in the CBD. Perfect for summer days in summer dresses. Email: hire@thehumblevintage.com to make a booking.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
9
AIL WA Y
RL
EY
ME
R
LB NE YRA PAL M
O O D C K W
ST COBDEN
PEEL ST
CAPEL ST
PEEL ST
ND ST
T
CE CE
NTR
E
LEY
E IDD
S
ST
MAN BAT RK PA
NE BOUR N MEL VENTIO CON NTRE CE
LD WORADE TR TRE CEN
E
RIDG ST B
RE CLA
Yarra River
PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
VIL
LA
GE
MS AL N E P OW TH T CR A
ND T
S ON
MELBOURNE CONVENTION CENTRE
E RN N OU IO LB IT RE ME XHIBENT E C
ST
T NS
ST
RD TY
RD
CI
JOHN
BY
WAY
UP
IG
UN
M
NO
REE
K
HA
RO
ST
PIC
WH
TGA TE F
SON
ST
WHITE
RMCOLO
WES BRADY ST
FORD ST
ST
ST
ON TA G
ST
UE
RDCAR BYTRAM ANNIAL ITE MA
CITYLI CUSTO NK SERVIC MER E CENTRE
GITTUS
L ME AQ
CER
HARTL
ST
SPEN
POLI ORIA VICT ORIA VICT LICE PO UM MUSE
RIVER ESPLANADE
M
N LINK RD WESTER s Cre ek
Moonie Pond
LEVESON ST
ER IND
AS
EY ST
RS
KINGS BRIDGE
T
SS
NN
SO N
ST
GIA
ER
ER
E
AN
SL
DER
FLIN
LA
ST
VE
AN D
NC
Y OF ISTR THS REG S, DEAGES IA BIRTH ARR &M
RA
E AG
LD
OR
ST
SS
SPE
CRO
360 RNE BOU LTO MEL AT RIA
T
SS
LLIN
RO AU
L VIL
GE
CHARLES GRIMES BRIDGE
ST
DE
FL
MARINA YE
IAN GE RAL CHAN AUSTCK EX STO TRE CEN
FLIN
TO SION S MIS ARER SEAF
NO. 8 BE RTH
S
LLIN
CO
CO
2 E
HIL
GAN KAN MAN BAT FE TA
AN NT
BR
S
S
RN
NO I
AN
ER
THE
ED Y WA
ION RMAT RIA INFO VICTO
ST
CIS
SH
'S MAN BAT HILL
SIC CLAS FOX CAR ON ECTI COLL
ST
FRAN
DS
T TM BA
O G
LIT
OO LA
TLE
SOU
LA
ST
G AY ILW
GE
R
KE
AID
RA
E BR IDGE
'S LER
RO
BOLT
EL
AU
BATMANS HILL DVE
ST
CCA
REBE
SS
LLIN
RA
S
LA
VIL
LE
AY W IL
AY IW
ER
G
RA
ST IN
ST
Y AR
ST
R
LK WA
D
E
TRAV
T
YARRA'S EDGE LORIME R ST
Ballarat, via Western Ring Rd
To Geelong & Great Ocean Rd
BE
RT I
NDS DOCKLA PARK
N
EEWAY
ATE FR
WESTG
THEB HU
WEBB BRIDGE
T IN PO ARK P
U
BO
Port Melbourne
BO
W VIE
T
RTH
PEDE
GE
BRID
ES
K UR
R TE WA
NO. 9 BE
ER S
ST
KE ST
BOUR
LA
LORIM
ST
UR
ORIA VICT INT PO
T COLLINS STREE N F U T U R E E X T E N S IO
KE
UR
BO
BO AN STRI
CO
YARRA' EDGE S
G
TION DR NAVIGA
RT LA
ORIA VICT EEN GR
E ST
IMPO
T ST
WAY
CHAN
ARER SEAF
RD
SAFE
RO
ORIA VICT BOUR ST HAR KE UR BO MER
EXT
F RD
10
DE
NA ME
TLE
LIT
UR
ST
ALE
SD
LON
DFO H COACINAL M TER US AL SKYB MIN TER
ETIHAD STADIUM
H
RAPH GEOG
T ST
N ATIO
iver
LA
ST
KE ST
BOUR
HAR
CE
TO
VIC
UCK
HUBB
T BER
RP
OU
H RIA
AND
NOR TH W
RTH
D9
.6 NO ARB
H ERT 5B
EN
AS
BERL
RTH NO. 14 BE
NO.
RTH
4
RIN
OR CORP
SHED
Yarra R
R
RTH NO. 4 BE
NO. 15 BE
LBO
A AM
CUM
NO. 3 BE
SHE
Docklands D'A
RTH
IER
CHAN MER
NO. 2 BE
LP
ADE LAN
our
TRA
F RY O HISTO SPORT TRANURAL M
ESP
CEN
CO LAW
SP
A
DJ
ARIN
CHAN7
UR
YM
4
BO
CIT
D1
HAR
RD
SHE
Vic
2
AR
UN
AY LW
ER
NT
UR
EPE
Y WA
RIV
FRO
YM QUA
DIUM STA CINCT PRE NEL
INA
MER T FOR AL MIN ROY
RNE BOU ES MELISTRAT RT U MAG CO
ST
ALE
SD
LON
LE
W
LA
IA
KA
NEW
DE
T WA
TER WA
NEW
ENA
ROM
YP
CIT
EN
ROM
YP QUA
LISS ANG TAFE LIAM OF WIL ITUTE RIE KOO AGE INST IT HERTRUST
ST
T LIT
AL T DIGITBOUR OBE S HAR LA TR
Y QUA NEW ADE
OS
RA
DO
RL
PEA
NT
WA Y
LA
ANG
TM
SAIN
EL
RO ERF
Y
WA Y
DOAQ
AV CAR
FRO TER Y WA CIT
LE
L CK IA
NT
ER
TAFF
T
RD
NE
GS FLA
D
E
RIV
SD
D AN
T
FCO
JEF
ST
DR
UAY WQ
AL ROY TORICAL HIS CIETY RIA SO VICTO OF
T TS
GS
DOC
T
NS
MA BAT
ST
M LIA WIL
NDS
KLA
LE
LITT
AFF GST FLA RDENS GA
T
YS
D DU
RD
arb aH tori
SHED
S
RO
AL TIV FESHALL
UR BO HARTOWN
9
West Melbourne
ST
KIN
IVER
R RL
T
WAY
PEA
N FRO TER WA CITY
FRANKLIN
YN SL
AD
AY QU NEWWEST
S
BL A
AY ILW
K) (CITYLIN
RA
RA Y
ONT ERFR WAT
R STA RN N THE VATIO SOUBSER EEL O WH
E URN Y LBO CIT ME TRAL IOS CENSTUD
LE
Y
QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET
8
ST
AN ST
SC
T
HS
LS WA
LE
R OU
OT
UIT AN
IN
ST
EN
D
O
LE
FO
ST
R EC
ST
ST
ST
QUEEN ST
DE
BERKELEY ST
K YN
ST
AD
ND
HOWARD ST
ST LA
OT AB B
SR
T
RD SF O
IRE
ST
OD
RS
VICTORIA
ST
GO
H RT NO
NE
ST
TON MIL
UR
NG
CHETWY
ST PL
LBO
CE
To Airpo Bendig Daylesfor Calder F
ST
EN
M LIA WIL
AY ILW RA
Marina
KI
Visitor information centre SP
TO ZOO
RRY ST
North Melbourne
L ES P EAD
AY LW
Toilet
ERROL ST
Road under construction/ future development site
MILLER ST
DRYBUR GH
I RA
ANDERS ON ST
NG
Theatre
Hospital
W
ABBOTSFO RD
ST
Train
ST
DI
Taxi rank
CURZON ST
SI
Educational facility
ME
LOTHIAN
TCE
STAWELL ST
MUNSTER
LAUREN S ST
N DE AR
VICTORIA
FO
D
BE
ST
QUEENSBE NORTH MELBOURN TOWN HALLE & LIBRARY
ST
Post Office
HA W KE
City circle tram route with stops
ELM ST
D
R
RT N
EY
Tram route with platform stops Train station
U
ST
Playground
O
K
Cinema
RRY ST
ETH
Places of worship
Melbourne city tourist shuttle bus stop
QUEENSBE
To Sydney via Sydney Rd PELHAM
ST
BER
Bike path offroad/onroad
C
T ST
AB
Places of interest
PROVOS
ELIZ
Parking
BBQ
AR MA MEA TS RK T HO ET US E
BAILLIE ST
L NEL ON O'C
Accessible toilet
DRYBUR GH
Melbourne City Map
ST
ST
ARDEN ST
AN
M
T
TS
AN
GR
T
S CIL
CE
R NO
10
Getting Around
w w w.insider.net.au
E
RK
MA
KING WILLIAM
HANOVER
E
S ST DODD
SMITH ST
CAMBRID GE
GEORGE
EADES ST
CLARENDO
N ST
E ST
ST
CHARLES
JOLIMONT
TCE
AGNES ST
JOLIMON
T RD
WELLINGTON CRES O MA I N
T U NN E
AN
EX AV
AV
A
S ST
DR
WELL
AL
To Mornington Peninsula & Phillip Island via Monash Fwy
13
V DA
ST
ST
SHRINE OF
SOUTHERN LINK
RD
Yarra R
iver
GOVERNMENT HOUSE
OO
CO
OLYMPIC PARK
MELBOURNE RECTANGULAR STADIUM L (TOLL WAY)
G HOOVE US RN E D ME RIV NT E
DW
TRY
VEN
S ST
ST
ST
NAPIER ST
MORRISON
E ST GISBORN
ST R RT HU CA MA
BURNLEY TUNNEL (TOLLWAY)
C I TY L I NK D
BIR
ST
LLS WE
DODD
HISENSE ARENA
MELBOU & ENTERT RNE SPORTS AINMENT CENTRE (LEXUS CEN TRE)
AV
MOO
NATIONAL SPORTS MUSEUM
SWAN ST
SIDNEY MYER MUSIC BOWL
C IT Y L IN K
ST KILDA RD
ES
GORE ST
YOUNG ST
ICK ST
ST
BRUNSW
FITZROY
PL
ST NICHOLSON
'S KING AIN DOM
ST MIL
MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND
ST
OLD SCOTCH OVAL
CK
ST
To Mornington Peninsula via Nepean Hwy
T
S AY
ST
R MO
RKE
CLA
ACCA
OXFORD
ST
NICHOLS ON ST
CLO
AN
RE ST
N
WADEY ST
MALTH OUSE THEATRE
STUR T ST
LANSDOWN
E ST STUR T ST
ING ST FANN
ST ER
TO
MELBOURNE PARK
V WA
GR
INK
3
UN
YARRA PARK
TM BA
FA W KN
RAL
N ORIA VICT LLEGE CO ARTS E OF TH
T AN
L RN THE SOU RD
T ST
JOLIMONT
Jolimont
SWAN ST BRIDGE
RD
DAME ELIZA MURDBETH CENTREOCH
JOLIMON
AK BRIDGE
BR
RIVERSLIDE SKATE PARK
GO
ST
FLO
NGV IONAL RNAT
H LIT
H
WILLIAM BAR
GEORGE
ROD LAVER ARENA
LIN
AG
ALEX A GARD NDRA ENS DRA AV
ZA C
RID G GE B RID
ND SA
AV
BIRRA R MARRUNG
PALMER ST
L I NK CITY
RD
KA VA N
ENT
QUEENS BRIDGE
LIAM
DA
ST
PAR
PL ERS
PL
AN
HOTHAM
To Bridge Rd & Dandenongs via Burwood Hwy
H
EN QUE ORIA VICT DENS GAR
LEVA
MILES
ST
D BOAR
ACDC LA
KIL
BOU
Southbank
BA TM
FEDERATION BELLS
ST
INTE
COOKS' COTTAGE
BOATHOUSE DRIVE
ARTS THE NTRE CE UDIO E, ST USE STAT AYHO & PL
IWAKI AUDITOR IUM
ST
ION
IBIT DUCK
E
IDGE
MEY
EXH
GE PD
GE
QUE ENS BR
EY ST
GEOR
ST
ST
ARTPLAY
FAIRIES TREE
CONSERVATORY
E SOUT
N
1
ST
H
AG
WELLIN
BRID
N
ESIG
GIPPS
TON PDE
GTON PD
ER RALIA POTT ST TRE IAN GV AU CEN THE TRE: N ILITY CEN MOB
ALE
N VA KA
RS
DE
GREY
MODEL TUDOR VILLAGE
WELLING
ST
LL
CES
T
RS
NE
NST
FLIN
KS HALL
FITZROY GARDENS
L
T CRAFRIA O VICT
E
DALLAS BROO
East Melbourne
PL
P RY
ASU
TRE
TREASURY GARDENS
FEDERATION WHARF RIVER BOAT DEPARTURE POINTS
PRIN
AY W
TO
SSE
LA
S LS
L ST
ED PL
RU EDGE
ER LA
RUTL
HOSI
RD WK FA
CATHEDRA L
RPOO
ALFR
NE PL
NG
KI BA
To Station Pier
SL CROS
BOUR
TY
VICTORIAN DEAF SOCIETY
ST PATRICK'S CATHEDRA L
T
DOW
XAN
W
ER
ER HAMLL HA
THG
ST
K AN HB UT
OK
CO
EKA EUR ECK 88 SKYD
CI
RIVERSID
SOU
AV
R
LIVE
MEL
CE
ATE
AY
QU
CH LA
ES PL PAYN
T POLI
VICTORIAN ARTISTIS SOCIETY
S PL
INS COLLACE PL
LAN RS DE IVE FLINFORTYFAIRS
ST
ST ANDREW
SS
LLIN
D IONAL NAT TRE CEN
AUSTRAL CATHOLICIAN UNIVERSITY
EYE & EAR
CITYSEUM MU
ERA FED QUARE S
ST
THG
IDE
SO
HI
ST
LA KET MAR T AL CROF
NS
ST
ADE
SOU
OMEN
PUN
N PL
STO
AVES
AID
T
SS
LLIN
CO
CO
TRE CEN AGE IAN RAL NG IM AUST MOVI THE R THE FO S PION CHAM TION
2
E AV
K PR
ST
ST COHE
N PL
ARE
DEGR
T AL
RS’
S DER
TS ATE AR T SOUTHGRE PRECINC AV & LEISU ATE
RS IVE
PO
ST
AN SW
SQU
PL
SCOT
ELLE
ST
T LEY
HBAN
TLE
LIT
KINO
UL'S TRE ST PA EDRAL THEA UM CATH FOR
T RIVER BOA POINTS DEPARTURE
SOUT
KE
ALL
SO WAT
CITY
LA
TRE
TER
CEN
ST
EN
D ST
TRAV
S ET
ST
W
NC
CHES
ETH
BON
E QU
RK MA
T
M TE
K OC
CE
T
ST
THEOUNT RAM
PL
MAN
AB
H PL
BLIG
ELIZ
K PL
BAN
NA AL
NS QUEE GE BRID RE SQUA
12
N N OW ME CR TAIN LEX R TE MP EN CO
POLI
CITYARY LIBR
EN LIAM PARUSE HO
CESS PRINEATRE TH
UR
ELL
OINT TOL
FLIN
T
MS
LIA
E URN LBORIUM QUA
HA
TRE THEA
CAE
F TY O ERSI GY UNIVCHNOLO TE
KE
UR
BO
4
ENT REG TRE THEA
ALBERT ST
ST
AL
TREP
NA PL
E ED
EY PL
DAM
HOW
K DE BLOC& ARCA PL
RY
WIL
BANA
E RIZ ERP ENT PARK
AN
BOW
CEN
EWAY
NES
CAUS
N LA
ID JO
UNIO
DAV
THE
CAPI
ELLE TRAV R AID GREATE N UNIO
P NH SHO TOW MET F-TIX RNE M BOU U HAL MEL HENAEE AT TR THEA
E GRAVPL
PRES
E LA
CE CHAN LA
TABL
EQUI
NEW
ION IGRAT IMM USEUM M
RMIT
TLE
LIT
PDE
EASTERN HILL FIRE STATION & MUSEUM
ES HOLM EGES COLL
BO
PA
RS’
RAIN
NES L
HIC GOT DING ANZ K BUIL BAN
11
GET TAR TRE CEN
RUSS
ID JO
LA
RE LA DWA CT HAR RECIN P
LA INS LA RANK RTON BU WAR
MAL
LA ENS
S LA
DAV
GPO
LA
GPOURNE BO MEL
R
WN ATO
BULL
SALL
LA
ER LA
E WAR
MYE
IA LER GAL PPING SHO PLAZA
T DHIS BUD CITYE TR CEN
N TOW MID AZA PL H COAC RE DAYDEPARTU R TOU
NES
IAN DON
ID JO
R
CALE
DAV
DRIV
RS ELLE CT TRAVCONTA INT PO
RA LA
HARD
NIAGA
IE PL
GOLD
GICAL EALO CIETY SO
MYE
CHIN
EDY COM TRE THEA
HER 'S ESTY E MAJTHEATR
S LA
ER TATT
ST
E ST WAR
YHA E IC OFF
PL ATAH WAR
ETH
HARD
T
Y AL FINLA
S EEN
RTS
QV E TR CEN
PL ERY DREW S LA ER SNID
ESE CHINSEUM MU
N QUEEORIA VICTMENS T WO TRE INC REC CEN KP GREE
CORR
ST
RNE BOU MEL NTRAL CE
AB
QU
N ERY LA DREW
TS
ST
ION
ENT
ST
NE C
ARY
STO
HOY
OUR
LIBR
E STAT
AN SW
ST
ELIZ
BE
TRO
B MEL
RAL
TLE
LIT
ALE
SD
LON
ING
L
IBIT
HAL
LL SSE RU
REY STO
POSTR TE MASLERY GAL
ST VINCENT'S
VICTORIA
L
T
ES
ST
BE
RO AT
OLDE N OUR ELB GOAL
TS NET BEN LA
EC
ST
ST
LANGRIDGE DERBY ST
PRINCES ST
SPR
M
ST
CARLTON GARDENS
EXH
RMIT
LT
PEEL ST
GERTRUDE ST
RATHDOWN
LYGON ST
CARDIGA
VICTORIA ZIE
EN
CK
MA
B RO LAT
DRUMMO ND ST
N ST
ST
BOUVERIE ST
ER ST LEICEST
SWANSTON
ST EY
T Y S RR
KEL
TRADES HALL
ST
LIN
NK
A'B
ST
PALMER ST
BUILDINGS
RRY ST
FRA
T KET
EXHIBITION
5
CHARLES
WEBB ST
QUEENSBE
CITY BATHS
TH
LA
MELBOURNE MUSEUM
Carlton
ST
To Eastern Fwy, Yarra Ranges via Maroondah Hwy
ST
ST
ST
POWLETT
PELHAM
IMAX
T YS ERR
STANLEY
ST CONDELL
ST
ST
MOOR ST
BA
ort, go, rd via Fwy
GEN
ST DAVID
ST
To Melb. Uni., Melb. Cemetery & Dental Hosp. PELHAM
ET
CARLTON
ST
AN
ST
BARRY ST
GRATTAN
Map courtesy of: City of Melbourne ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS
REMEMBRANCE The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
11
Shopping
There’s nothing better than spending your hard-earned cash on things you probably don’t need. Melbourne has a vast array of shopping areas, ranging from the CBD where you will find almost anything, to high end fashion strips like Chapel St (South Yarra), to fresh food and arts and crafts markets scattered in and around Melbourne. The following section will provide you with a brief overview of the best places in and around Melbourne to satisfy all of your shopping needs. So whether it’s keeping up with the hottest fashion, or hunting through the $2 bin at a second-hand bookshop, let The Insider show you where to go. There are some great websites that can help you plan your shopping adventures. One of the best is: w w w.onlymelbourne.com. au.
Melbourne CBD Contributions by: WMSG www.wemakestuffgood.com Melbourne’s CBD is full of alleyways and old converted buildings with eclectic fashion stores. It has all the usual global brands that you love. However, many Melburnians like to be original and stylish, which means there is a culture of supporting local designers, thrift stores and op-shops, which you will find an abundance of here in Melbourne. One of the best places to kickstart your shopping in the CBD is Cathedral Arcade (37 Swantson St) which showcases cool alternative and local designer stores like Retro Star, Alice Euphemia, Route 66 and Kinki Gerlinki. The shopping culture is also quite friendly, with most stores in the CBD being very inviting with friendly staff. Refer to WMSG Map of Melbourne on pg 54-55.
12 w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
Prahran
Fitzroy
Chapel St is the centre of Prahran. One half is filled with well-known designer brands and on the other side you will find vintage and new designer stores. There really is everything for everyone here! Perhaps the most well loved area is Greville St, a cute and interesting strip with second-hand clothing stores, Retro clothing, streetwear & jewellery. Shops include Obese Records, Kis, Dangerfield and more.
Fitzroy is famous for its alternative, trendy, artistic, and quirky approach to shopping. Indulge in a unique culture that sees people flock from near and far. Brunswick St is a long strip full of a great variety of stores. Give yourself a day here. Around the corner is Gertrude St which has a few high quality specialty stores. Smith St has lots of factory outlets as well as local designers, Retro stores and an all round bohemian vibe. Fitzroy is a lovable pocket of our diverse city and you can expect to bump into friends as you stroll through this area.
St Kilda This beach-side suburb offers a very diverse range of styles, prices and creativity. You’ll find designer, ethnic, crafty and vintage clothing here. During the summer, on Sunday, head to the craft market across from the beach. It’s a great place to find a unique gift for a friend or for yourself.
Brunswick One of the most culturally diverse areas of Melbourne, you will also find locally made fun, funky, second hand and sustainable clothing here. Brunswick is also a location full of urban street-art culture. Sydney Road is a well-known, long shopping strip. Although, you may need the tram to get from one side to the other.
14
Shopping
richmond Richmond is famous for its massive selection of bargains. The funkiest strip to have a stroll down is Bridge Rd. With plenty of intimate cafés and quality restaurants to break up a shopping day, this road also has some of the best gear around in second-hand stores and factory outlets! Bridge Road offers international students a unique introduction to the culture of Melbourne, as it combines the hustle and bustle of everyday shopping with a stroll through one of Melbourne’s oldest and culturally rich areas.
supermarkets The quality of food is high in Australia. Most meats come from local sources, and almost all our fruit and vegetables are also grown here, rather than
imported. You can buy this produce in any supermarket, besides other specialised stores and markets. If you want high quality meat, we recommend choosing Australian. The labels will generally say where it’s from. You can freeze most red meats for a few months and most white meats for a few weeks at least. The beef is excellent, and you can even buy a few of our native animals to try. There is a delicatessen section in supermarkets as well, and they sell meats, cheeses and other items. The quality is generally good. Fresh fish is also available. While sandwich meat can be bought here too, packaged sandwich meat is also available in the cold goods section (mostly next to the cheeses). However, Melbourne has plenty of fresh food markets to buy the freshest produce. Some of the best markets are out in the country, so if you have a car, the trip is well worth it.
MARKETS Caulfield Farmers Market Corner of Neerim Rd and Booran Rd, Caulfield Did someone say detox? Get your student diet back on track with a visit to the Caulfield Farmers Market. With over 50 stalls and selling the freshest fruit and vegetables Victoria has to offer, this is a great way to pick up some cheap, fresh ingredients for home cooking. Wrap your hands around a hot
w w w.insider.net.au
Moving in & stocking up your new home. We know that when moving in to your new home, finding the right furniture, kitchenware and other basic supplies can be a real headache. If you are only here for a short time, your apartment is probably already furnished. But this doesn’t mean that this section is irrelevant, as who can really say no to a bargain? Big Furniture Outlets We recommend these as the first stop for furniture hunters, as they have massive showrooms full of decent furniture at relatively cheap prices. The problem will be getting the goods back to your house as a lot of these outlets are located a little bit out of town, and you can’t really bring a new bed on the bus! The majority of the following places offer some kind of delivery service, although they usually charge so be sure to check for extra costs!
IKEA Renowned for being the kings of value-for-money furniture, don’t forget that you have to make it yourself when you get home! You don’t need an engineering degree though, and it is usually pretty fun. Ikea doesn’t just offer furniture, but a wide range of household wares, including things for the kitchen, living room and bathroom. If all this shopping has made you hungry, sit down for a Swedish meatball breakfast in the in-house restaurant. Freedom Although a little more expensive than Ikea, Freedom has a solid range of good quality furniture, mostly all pre-assembled, and usually very high quality. If you’re looking a comfortable sofa or a new bed, we recommend Freedom. Department Stores If you are looking for homewares and electronics, you might want to check out the big department stores in Australia. The ones that offer some of the more affordable products include Target and Big W. If you’re looking for mid-range pricing but decent quality, Harris Scarfe is excellent for a wide range of products and always have big sales. For those that will not sacrifice quality for price or are simply interested in the higher end of home wares, we recommend David Jones and Myer.
Budget Tips Second-hand stores While there are some things you need to buy brand new, there are loads of items that are worth buying second hand! Keep your eye out for second hand stores and you will save a fortune! Some of these are mentioned in this section!
1.
Bargain hunting
2.
Watch out for the sales, or let someone else do it for you. The
website www.ozbargain. com.au is where bargain
hunters come to tell you where to save money. They have a massive network of members who know when and where the sales are on, and how you can take advantage of them.
Factory outlets Buying direct from the manufacturer means the savings they make by avoiding a retailer are passed on to you. These shops are called factory outlets and some of them happen to be located in awesome shopping areas. Bridge Rd in Richmond has many of these as well as Smith St in Fitzroy.
3.
Trading Post There is a newspaper entirely dedicated to buying and selling second-hand goods called The Trading Post. Pick it up from your local news agency and you might just find what you’re looking for!
4.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
15
cup of freshly brewed coffee (or a home brewed beer if you’re up for it) on a Saturday morning while you meander through the diverse range of stalls. Have comfort in the fact that it is a rule that all stall holders must have a hand in production of their goods if they are to sell them here, which means you are buying straight from the source! 9528 4985 2nd Sat of every month: 8am-1pm.
Suzuki Night Market Corner of Queen Street and Victoria Street, Melbourne This market was recommended to us by international students who look for those ingredients which are common back home, but not so common here in Australia. The diversity of food at this market makes it hugely popular on those balmy summer nights. While perfect for a quick and tasty feed from the stalls offering freshly cooked meals from around the world, students can also stock up on a range of different fresh produce, listen to some live music, taste some of Victoria’s best wine and browse through 150 stalls offering a unique range of arts and crafts. 9320 5822 Late Nov-Late Feb 2011. Wed: 5:30pm-10pm.
Queen Victoria Markets Corner of Queen and Elizabeth Streets What do you get if you add the multicultural flair of Melbourne, the incredible fresh produce from its surrounds and the hustle and bustle of curious and hungry Melburnian shoppers?
16
Shopping
The Queen Victoria Markets is well known Australia-wide as one of the best outdoor markets in the country. Boutique wine makers, butchers, farmers and craftsmen come from all over the place to bring you the ultimate shopping experience. The competition between stall owners make the market come alive, as bargains are shouted out loud as you stroll through. This market will guarantee to bring your senses to life, and is highly recommended. Also, many of the photos in this guide were submitted by Tony Pierrakos who runs a great photography stall there. Photos make excellent souvenirs or gifts so be sure to have a look! 9320 5822 Mon: Closed; Tue: 6am-2pm; Wed: Closed; Thu: 6am-2pm; Fri: 6am-2pm; Sat: 6am-3pm; Sun: 9am-4pm.
Rose Street Artist Market 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy If you didn’t know it already, Melbourne is a city brimming with creativity. The Rose Street Artist Market is one of the best ways to see it for yourself, with local artists and designers setting up stalls to display and sell their array of creations. For anyone looking to bring a little colour or life to their room, browsing through the large number of stalls here will certainly set you in the right direction. You can even have a chat to the artists, hear their stories and sources of inspiration, and experience for yourself the creative community that Melbourne is so famous for. 9419 5529
Sat-Sun: 11am-5pm.
St. Kilda Beach Night Market Every summer, for ten Thursdays, this beach-side town hosts a brilliant night market. Bringing together live music, over 100 stalls of arts, crafts and food from all around the world, this market is the perfect place to bring your new friends, relax and breathe in the sea air (mixed with the smells of food from all around the world). The perfect destination for Christmas shopping! 0448 353 050 Thu: 5pm-10pm (selected Thursdays only, see website for details: stkildabeachnightmarket.com.au)
Federation Square Book Market The Atrium, Federation Square Has the constant stream of uni textbooks made you forget what it is like to read for pleasure? A browse through the city’s largest weekly book market at Federation Square will be sure to inspire. Selling new and second-hand titles, this market covers all the topics you can think of, including history, cooking, art, gardening and everything in between. The Esplanade Market St Kilda This market has been the place to buy and sell arts and crafts in Melbourne since the 1970s. With over 150 stalls, the Oscarwinning creator of the movie Harvie Crumpet used to be one of the many artists who set up their stalls every Sunday morning. Come down to St Kilda and immerse yourself in the sometimes crazy, sometimes beautiful world of art. Who
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
TOP5.
AUSSIE READS True History
1. of the Kelly Gang
Peter Carey A stunning exploration of the life of the infamous Australian criminal/folk-hero Ned Kelly.
Tomorrow
2. When the
War Began John Marsden
An easy-to-read but hardto-put-down novel about a group of friends who find themselves trying to survive an unexpected invasion of their home town.
Cloud
3. Street
Tim Winton An award winning, brilliant story of the life of two rural families who come to live together in Perth.
The Chant 4. of Jimmie Blacksmith Thomas Keneally An account of an Aboriginal man who expresses his rage in a way that will stun the reader and keep the pages turning.
Deadly
5. Unna
Phillip Gwynne A heart wrenching story of an Aboriginal teenager living in a country town who is forced to confront the difficult issues of racism and family life.
18
Shopping
knows, you might be buying art from the next Picasso! 9534 0066
Sunday:10am-5pm.
Books Mag Nation 88 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Mag Nation stocks over 4000 magazine titles in a four story retail outlet. The magazines are both national and international covering just about any topic you can think of. Free wireless Internet is available, as are a whole set of comfy chairs to do a quick preview of the mags before you make a purchase. The store stocks a number of titles in foreign languages. If you are interested in fashion or design, this is a place you must explore. 9663 6559 Mon-Thu: 7:30am8pm; 7:30am-9pm; Sat: 9am-7pm; Sun: 10am-6pm.
Borders 211 Latrobe Street, Melbourne Borders is a high quality chain stocking a wide range of books, CDs and DVDs. If what you’re looking for is relatively mainstream, this is probably your best place to start. Borders also have a comprehensive range of guide books and manuals for those students out there that are looking to get a bit of an edge on their studies. 9663 8909 Sun-Tue: 10am-7pm; Wed: 10am-8pm; Thu-Fri: 10am-9pm; Sat: 9am-7pm; Sun: 10am-7pm.
Readings 309 Lygon St, Carlton, Melbourne Readings is one of Melbourne’s largest indie bookstores. The Carlton store is located just around the corner from RMIT and Uni Melbourne. There are also several other stores located around town that may be more convenient. If you’re looking for something a little more alternative and arty this might be a great place to check out. Readings also offers a large range of mainstream books, DVDs and CDs. Readings regularly has interesting events and book launches so be sure to check out their website for info in regards to what’s up and coming for 2010 @ www.readings.com. au. The store offers a discount on some course related material to students when an ID card is shown. There is also a large pinup wall where students post accommodation listings. 9347 6633 Mon-Fri: 8am-11pm; Sat-Sun: 9am-11pm.
Foreign Language Bookshop 259 Collins Street, Melbourne The Foreign Language Bookshop stocks books for both educational and recreational purposes. The book store has titles in over 150 different languages. There is a large range of books that cater for English-as-a-second-language students. This might be a great place for you to find yourself an electronic translator, dictionary or phrase book to help you with your studies. The store also
w w w.insider.net.au
Getting Connected
load per month. The more you pay per month, the higher your download limit.
Do you need Internet but have no idea how it all works in Australia? Maybe we can help you get started.
Speeds depend on whereabouts you live and vary between dialup (56kbps), ADSL (8Mbit Max) and ADSL2+ (24Mbit). Dialup is the cheapest while the two ADSL varieties are around the same cost as each other.
If you have wireless technology on your mobile device, you’ll be glad to know that there is free wireless available throughout some areas of the CBD. You’ll also find wireless at your uni campus, McDonalds and some cafés. If you can’t get it for free, check out what the mobile phone companies are offering. Three Mobile and Optus occasionally have specials on their wireless broadband plans.
If you’re moving into a new house you may need to connect your landline before you can use the Internet (this is done by calling Telstra on 13 2200). If you don’t need a house phone, consider looking for a service called Naked ADSL. This allows you to have the Internet but you don’t pay the line rental cost because you don’t have a telephone.
Home Internet If you end up getting your own place you’ll need to get online. Here are some tips about finding the right ISP (Internet Service Provider) for you. Contracts generally vary from 1 month up to 24 months. The longer you sign up for, the lower the cost of the initial installation. Look for contracts that include a free wireless modem/ router, alternatively you can buy your own for around $100. Due to the fact that Australia hasn’t quite entered the 21st century, download limits are very common. ISPs often restrict the amount you down-
Phoning Home Are your friends and relatives wondering why you haven’t called? We understand it can be a bit expensive to call home, so we have a few options for you to save some cash. Prepaid Sim Cards If you already have an unlocked mobile phone, then getting a SIM card is a great option for you. It means instead of getting locked into a contract with an Australian phone provider, you just buy the SIM card, put it in your phone and buy prepaid credit whenever you need it from supermarkets, petrol stations, convenience stores etc. It is a very good option for those who are only here for a short time. There are plenty of phone
stores that sell SIM cards in many of the shopping districts around the city. Some of the biggest and cheapest SIM card providers are Virgin Mobile, Vodafone, Three, Telstra and Optus. Skype If you have a computer with the Internet, microphone and speakers or headphones, Skype is the ultimate way to call anywhere in the world. If you haven’t heard of Skype, it’s a communication program that allows text, video and voice chat. If your friends and relatives have Skype too, then you can call them for free for as long as you want! A great feature of this program is that you can actually call landline and mobile phones all over the world for ridiculously cheap rates. It uses Voice Over IP (VOIP) technology, which runs over the Internet so it saves you a lot of money! www.skype.com Phone Cards Using phone cards to call overseas is around 80% cheaper than calling normally from your home phone, so don’t waste your money calling from your home phone without a phone card! Walk into any newsagency and selected convenience stores to find an assortment of different phone cards. They differ by offering cheap calls to different countries. Another benefit of using phone cards is that there are no contracts, so you are not locked into any dodgy (this is Australian for bad quality and unreliable) deals.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
19
sells a range of foreign music, movies, games and audio books. 9654 2883 Mon-Wed: 9am-6pm; Thu-Fri: 9am-7pm; Sat: 9am-5:30pm; Sun: Closed.
music and dvds Allans Music 152 Bourke Street, Melbourne Feel like you’ve left something behind? Luckily Allans offers both the sale and rental of a large range of instruments. Depending on what institution you’re from the store may also offer you a discount. This may be useful to mention upon making your purchase. Allans also offers music lessons and workshops to the public. This could be a great way to meet other musos and keep up your skills at the same time. To add to this, Allans has a huge range of sheet music, instrument accessories and recording equipment. For more information on this check out Allans website @ www.allansmusic.com.au 9654 8444 Mon-Thu: 9am-6pm; Fri: 9am-7pm; Sat: 9am-5pm; Sun: 11am-5pm.
Camera House QV, 176-178 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne I bet your friends and family back home are dying for you to send some photos. For anything to do with cameras, the Camera House can probably help you out. Whether you’re looking for a handy cam to fit in your pocket or an SLR that could take a photo of a kangaroo hopping
20
Shopping
from 100 meters away, this place can sort you out. Camera House also stocks a wide range of accessories. 9654 2333 Mon-Fri: 8:45am-6pm; Fri: 8:45-8pm; Sat-Sun: 11am-5pm.
Minotaur Entertainment 121 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Minotaur offers a massive range of comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, games, movies and basically everything you can think of that is related to sci-fi pop culture. If you have not been able to keep up to date with what’s been happening to your favourite characters since you moved to Australia we highly recommend a visit. Even if you are not a fan of anime and games, this place is still pretty cool to have a walk through for a browse. Check out their website www.minotaur.com.au for more info. 9670 5414 Mon-Wed: 9am-6pm; Thu: 9am-7pm; Fri: 9am-9pm; Sat: 9am-6pm; Sun: 11am-5pm.
JB Hifi Village Centre, 206 Bourke St, Melbourne Home of some of the best bargains out there when it comes to CDs and DVDs, it is easy to walk into JBs looking for a birthday present for your Mum and leave with five CDs and three DVDs for yourself. To add to this, JB can also take care of the majority of your digital needs, as they stock cameras, printer inks, games, consoles, televisions DVD players and much more. Check out their web site for a better overview of what they
have to offer and for the location of the closest store to you @ www.jbhifi.com.au 9650 0788 Mon-Fri: 9am-9pm; Sat: 9am-7:30pm; Sun: 10am-6pm.
Vinyl Hunting By: Adrian Manusco Music is a big part of Melbourne culture. Whether you’re a DJ spinning some tracks in the clubs or just interested in sitting in a comfortable chair at home and chilling to some tunes, Melbourne’s record stores will have something for you. The Melbourne music scene caters for all kinds of music fans. Before you go hunting for your personal favourites, don’t be scared if you don’t have a record player. Visiting these stores can be a cultural experience in itself and most record stores also sell CDs. Obese Records 4A Izett St, Prahran Obese is the largest Australian independent hip hop label. If you’re a hip hop fan we highly advise checking out the retail store. Obese has been the home to some of the most popular Australian hip hop artists ever to jump onto the Australian stage. If you’re looking for a good insight into Aussie hip hop music and the culture behind it, give this store a visit. If you have a keen interest in seeing some hip hop
w w w.insider.net.au
CPA139016 11/2009
Start your journey here Register now to discover your pathway to success Global Opportunities is the ultimate careers event
Discover your pathway to career success and register for this event. For further information, visit cpaaustralia.com.au/globalopps
for anyone interested in a career in finance,
CPA Passport
accounting and business. This event connects the
CPA Passport is CPA Australia’s global student
next wave of high performing business graduates
network. It’s your ticket to the broadest career
and young professionals with leading employers.
options available in Australia and overseas.
A number of high profile employers will present
It provides more resources, networking
what employment positions are on offer and
opportunities, study support, ongoing training
what they look for in a successful applicant.
and work experience programs than any other
Global Opportunities is a careers event with a
professional body of its kind. Get access to
difference. International representatives will present
these and many more benefits by joining
information on their country and offer tips and
CPA Passport now. To find out more, visit
advice on how to obtain employment overseas.
cpaaustralia.com.au/students
cpaaustralia.com.au
and some shows coming up, check out the Obese blog @ obeserecords.blogspot.com 9529 1577 Mon-Thu: 10:30am5:30pm; Fri: 10:30am-6pm; Sat: 10:30am-5:30pm; Sun: 12:30am-5pm.
Round & Round Records 513 Sydney Rd, Brunswick Stocking everything from original Detroit techno through to rare 70s Italian prog, Round & Round is a music store for music lovers. Even if you can’t find what you’re looking for, Round & Round, like most of Melbourne’s small record stores, are more than happy to help you track down even the strangest, rarest release. Round & Round is near the start of Sydney Road’s shopping district, making it a perfect start (or finish) to a sunny Saturday. 9380 5095 Tue-Fri: 11am-7pm; Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun-Mon: Closed.
Missing Link 405 Bourke St, Melbourne (in the basement) Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Missing Link has been Melbourne’s central independent record stores since... well, forever. The store plays host to the occasional instore gig, all of which are free and all-ages. Known for its unparalleled punk/hardcore section, Missing Link also stocks a huge amount of local releases. This is the place to go if you want to hear some of Melbourne’s amazing musical talent. 9670 8208 Mon-Wed: 10am-6pm; Thu-Fri: 10am-7pm; Sat: 11am-4pm; Sun: Noon-4pm.
22
Shopping
Alley Tunes 660 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn Is it a cafe? Is it a record store? What does it matter when it’s this awesome? Hidden beneath the train station, Alley Tunes combines Melbourne’s love of a good coffee with that of a great tune. Aimed at beat enthusiasts, it’s stocked to the brim with fantastic hip-hop, funk and jazz. Alley Tunes makes crate digging a breeze. 9819 9449 9am-5pm.
Mon-Fri: 7am-7pm; Sat
Greville Records 152 Greville St, Prahran A space/time-capsule in the middle of trendy Chapel Street, Greville Records offers Melbourne a glimpse into the outer-reaches of music. Stocking rare funk, soul, punk, indie, jazz, rock and reggae albums, the store specialises in the obscure and the strange. Dealing mostly with obscure CDs, the store is less for cratedigging DJs and more for the obsessed music lover. Greville Records, like most of the stores listed, also write small reviews on each album, giving you more of a reason to grab something you’ve never heard of! 9510 3012 Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-7pm; Sun: Noon-5pm.
Polyester Records 288 Flinders Lane, Melbourne & 387 Brunswick St, Fitzroy. Much like its infamous sisterstore, Polyester Books, Polyester Records focuses on the weird, the wonderful and most of all, the local. The store has all the fantastic, independent local
releases that the big stores look over and the staff actually know about the music they stock! There’s one in the city and one in trendy Brunswick Street which means you’ve got no excuse, get down there now! 9663 8696 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-8pm; Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun: 11am-5pm.
Arkitekt Records 81 Lygon St, Brunswick East. The place to go for cheap second-hand oldies, be it for listening or beat-exploring! Everything’s reasonably priced and there’s enough hip-hop, RnB, funk, soul, jazz and pop to fill any record-head’s collection. 9387 2470
White Rabbit Record Bar 176 Bellair St, Kensington Not solely a record store, the White Rabbit Record Bar is more a casual place to hang out, have a drink and enjoy some tunes. Open late on most nights (until 11pm), the White Rabbit often has DJ or band sets on weekend nights – an awesome start to a night out. 9376 5441
SECOND HAND CLOTHING One man’s trash is another man’s treasure! Second-hand clothing stores started as a way to clean out the rich people’s closets and help out the poor. However, now second-hand shopping has become a loved and popular pastime for many in the Melbourne shopping
w w w.insider.net.au
scene. If you choose to go for a hunt through the second-hand clothing stores of Melbourne you won’t only come across good bargains, you might also find a piece of lost flair and style you wouldn’t have found in a department store. Chapel St Bazaar 217 Chapel Street, Prahran This joint looks, smells and sounds like the past. As you walk through the store looking in the bins and on the shelves, it will be hard for you not to feel nostalgic about something. You will find outfits, toys, books, furniture, jewellery, hats and even some Retro electrical. Although before you go home and plug it in, it may be worth getting the electrics tested out professionally. At the very least make sure you have a functioning surge arrestor. 9529 1727
Daily: 10am-6pm.
Savers 330 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. Savers is a massive shopping hub of second-hand goods. Boasting the intake of upwards of 5000 items daily, this thrifters paradise surely has something for you. If you are used to walking into less decorative second-hand stores, this place may surprise you. You might be looking to deck out your new apartment with furniture, you might be looking to fill your wardrobe with quality
threads, or you might even simply be looking to add to your strange spoon collection. Mon-Wed: 9.30am-6pm; Thu-Fri: 9.30am-9pm; Sat: 9.30am-6pm; Sun: 10am-5pm.
Sacred Heart 87A Grey Street, St Kilda The Sacred Heart in Saint Kilda is set in an old church. It’s packed to the brim with second-hand goodies. The shop has a rather tight layout and you might feel like you’re swimming in an ocean of fabric, buttons and zips but this makes the whole experience more delightful. The clothing is sorted by type, so you can browse through sections looking for particular things you need. If you aren’t into clothing, don’t worry, this store offers a cool constantly changing range of books, jewellery, glassware and crockery. If you’re looking to fill your kitchen cupboards with a little bit of character you might want to look through these sections before spending a lot at the department stores. 9536 8437
Daily: 10am-4.30pm.
STREET WEAR Fat General Post Office, 338-352 Bourke St, Melbourne The Fat store is one of the most unique clothing outlets in Melbourne. Filled with quirky, cool Retro and street fashion it offers clothing to the city girls and guys who love to show off their bold fashion sense. Fat has been the birth place of a handful of famous Australian designers
and artists. Fat stocks the classic brands like Sass & Bide, and Tsubi but also stocks a range of up-and-coming new labels. As an interesting addition, the store now stocks a handful of arts and crafts pieces, ceramics and musical instruments. 9662 3332 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-8pm; Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun: 11am-5pm.
Dangerfield 224 Flinders St, Melbourne For everyone that has a little bit of an alternative side, this place is worth having a look at. Being one of Australia’s most loved, funky, urban clothing companies, the store is filled with pants, jackets, tees and accessories that cater to people with trendy tastes and to those who are looking to stand out in the crowd. If you’re looking for interesting T-shirt designs, this is your one-stop shop. Prices are generally quite good and the staff are very helpful. 9654 1759 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-8pm; Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun: 11am-6pm.
American Apparel 262 Chapel St, Prahan American Apparel is the USA’s largest clothing manufacturer. In recent years, this store has travelled, just like you, to Australia and set up fresh retail outlets providing a range of the most hip and youthful items around. This store sells a huge range of outfits from plain outfits to the those reserved for trend setters. Anything from shorts to dresses to hats to socks, you can find it here
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
23
Photo: Estraire
Clothing Size Chart Men’s shoe sizes AUS 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
EU 37 38 39.5 40.5 42 43 44.5 46 47
JAP 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
UK 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
There’s nothing worse than buying clothes in a foreign country and realising you got the sizes wrong because you weren’t used to the size conversion. Have a look at the this table to work out your size in Australia.
Women’s shoe sizes
US/CA 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Bra sizes
AUS 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
EU 37 38 39.5 40.5 42 43 44.5 46 47
JAP 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
UK 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
US/CA 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Dress sizes
AUS/NZ 10AA 10A 10B 10C 10D
EU 70A 70B 70C 70D 70DD
US/CA 32AA 32A 32B 32C 32D
UK 32A 32B 32C 32D 32DD
F 85A 85B 85C 85D 85DD
12AA 12A 12B 12C 12D 12DD
75A 75B 75C 75D 75DD 75E
34AA 34A 34B 34C 34D 34DD
34A 34B 34C 34D 34DD 34E
90A 90B 90C 90D 90DD 90E
14AA 14A 14B
80A 80B 80C
36AA 36A 36B
36A 36B 36C
95A 95B 95C
AUS 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22
EU 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
US/CA 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
UK 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 28 20 22
B/E/F/P* 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 49 48 50
I 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54
*B = Belgium, E = Spain, F = France, P = Portugal
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
25
for great prices. A very popular shop among many students in Melbourne.
top brands include G-Star Raw, Zanerobe, Freshjive, Diesel and Wrangler.
9529 6852 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-8pm; Sat 10am-7pm; Sun 11am-5pm.
9568 1092 Sat-Wed: 9:30am-6pm; Thu-Fri: 9:30am-10pm.
Hype Shoes 257 Bourke St, Melbourne Sneaker fan? If you are this is a place worth walking into. Stocking the latest in trendy street wear and casual footwear, this shop has one of the largest selections of the latest hip street brands under one roof. To list a few favourites, they stock Nike, Onitsuka, Adidas, Lacoste, Converse, Vans and Creative Recreation. These are all available in the most up-to-date styles and sold for competitive prices. In the words of Forrest Gump’s Mum, “there’s an awful lot you could tell about a person by their shoes”, so head on in and find a pair that tell a story about you. With a bunch of stores around Melbourne, check their website @ www.hypedc.com to find the closest store to you. 9663 1122 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-7pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-6pm
Globalize Nepean Highway, Chadstone A great venue for fans of popular and high fashion. Stocking all of the seasonal hits in all of the most popular brands. If you’re looking for something nice to wear out on a Saturday night or just something casual to wear to your uni classes, Globalize can help you out. Their
Mimco General Post Office, 350 Bourke St, Melbourne Mimco emphasises the importance of being properly accessorised. The one-stop shop for accessories like bags, handbags, jewellery and scarves, Mimco products cater for the busy student to the upmarket traveller. 9663 7200 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-8pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Sun:11am-5pm
miscellaneous African Drumming 12 Grey St, St Kilda African Drumming is one of the hubs of African culture in Melbourne. They offer drumming workshops and classes that can be not only awesome fun, but a great way to meet people and gain some new skills. They also sell a wide range of African djembes, drums, CDs, books and arts and crafts. With a fantastic team of instructors and staff, don’t hesitate to contact them or put your head in the door.
recommend stepping into this den of mystery. They stock all kinds of gadgets and props to help you develop your skills as an amateur magician. To add to this, they also sell Poi (fire twirling sticks) juggling balls, clubs and juggling knives. So if you are having trouble picking up some part time work to pay for your studies, you might consider learning how to juggle and throwing your hat down on the Bourke Street stretch for some busking. 9670 9270 Mon-Fri: 9:30am5:30pm; Sat: 10am-3pm.
Rose Chong Costumes 218 Gertrude St, Fitzroy During your stay in Australia, you will most likely be invited to a costume party, and when this happens, a visit to this shop will ensure you have all that you will need to stand out in the crowd. Seriously, these guys are professionals in the costume field. Rose Chongs has become a recognised Melbourne institution and is worth wandering through even if you don’t have a party to go to and are just looking for a little bit of fun. 9419 6233 Mon-Tue: 9am-5:30pm; Wed-Fri: Closed; Sat: 9am-5:30pm; Sun: Closed.
9525 3073 Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm; Sat:10:30am-5pm; Sun closed.
Bernards Magic Shop 211 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne If you are looking for a new hobby to pass some time or just a new party trick, we highly
26
Shopping
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Ania Przybycien www.wemakestuffgood.com.au
TOP5.
Study Snacks 1. Mi Goreng Noodles
Tasty, cheap and awesome. These aren’t the most nutritious snack but they are just too good to say no to.
2. Grapes
The carbs get the serotonin flowing which will help the nerves and the fibre is released slowly, meaning slower sugar absorption.
Whole-Wheat
3. Pretzels
High in fibre and carbs, again the perfect mix for study brains. You can munch on them all day too.
Baked
4. Beans on Toast
Low fat, packed with fibre and protein, this is a filling delicious snack during your break.
5. Almonds
A nutrient-dense food that is packed with monounsaturated fat, lots of protein and fibre. This makes you feel full, and is a great source of energy. Some people base their whole weight loss diets around almonds!
28
Shopping
Woods & Fields 355 Sydney Rd, Brunswick This store is standing proof that being environmentally friendly is cool. Stocking a wide range of very fashionable brands, Woods and Fields provides the Melbourne folk with an all natural fashion experience for both males and females. The store holds a feature exhibition for a different designer each month, so the fashion and themes of the store are changing constantly. 9380 1773 Noon-5pm.
10:30am-5:30pm; Sun
Sports Rock N Skate Shop 3/22-28 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
Rebel Sports Shop LG 41 44 211 Lonsdale St, Melbourne If you can kick it, throw it, swing it or punch it, you can probably find it here. Sport is a great way to meet new people and stay in shape. So, if you’re missing the sports you used to play at home or are looking to try something new, Rebel Sports can probably help you out with the equipment. They also stock a large range of popular sports clothing and shoes. Popular brands include Adidas, Nike, Lonsdale, Asics, Puma and Everlast. Not all of the fashion is sports related either. Some of the stocked apparel is in modern street and urban styles. 9663 6044 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm; Fri: 10am-9pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-5pm.
‘Rockin’ sells and hires out in-line skates. They also boast an impressive selection of long boards for rental and skateboards for sale. If you are interested in buying your own set of wheels or just renting some for a few hours, this is a great place to check out. If you already have some gear that needs a bit of a tune up, ‘Rockin’ offers repairs and maintenance. If you are heading down to St Kilda for the day and are looking for something special to do hiring some wheels is always a fun thing to do. 9525 3434 Mon-Fri: 11am-6pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-6pm.
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
Eating Out
The restaurant culture in Melbourne is the envy of all the other cities in Australia. Among these vibrant and multicultural streets, you will find a vast array of eateries influenced from all corners of the globe. Discovering these places for yourself will give you a valuable insight into how Melbourne embraced these different cultures and made this great city what it is today. There is also a very strong café culture in Melbourne. The result is arguably the world’s best coffee being served from thousands of different cafés around the city. If you head to Chinatown in the city, you can find an abundance of Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese and Indonesian delights. For a taste of Europe, we recommend heading to Richmond for awesome Greek food and Carlton (Lygon St) for tasty Italian cuisine. Don’t
be intimidated by the people standing out the front of the restaurant trying to entice you to come in. This is all part of the Melbourne restaurant culture. They can be quite persuasive after they shove a menu in your face, so be strong and know that there are a lot of restaurants to choose from. This sort of intimidation gets a bit stranger when you go to places like Hardware Lane in the CBD, where you can actually barter for special deals on your food (e.g.. get a free bottle of wine with your meal). For some world class Turkish cuisine and vegetarian food, Fitzroy (Brunswick St) is the area for you, although this area really has everything! If your parents come to visit and want to buy you a nice dinner, take advantage of the fact that they might pay for you and head to the expensive but awesome Chapel St and Toorak Rd in South Yarra for a delicious meal (it is a
30 w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
little expensive for the average student). However, as there are so many good areas to eat, we have attempted to supply you with the facts you need to go searching for your perfect meal. Furthermore, we have provided you with the best places to find the ultimate cup of coffee and the best café experience in Melbourne.
out to explore St Kilda for the afternoon. Running over two levels, this cafe also has an outdoor area for those who enjoy soaking up a bit of sun.
Budget Eats & Lunch Spots
O’Bento is the home of fresh, high quality style Sushi and Sashimi. Just off little Collins Street, you can sit down and enjoy a meal at an incredibly cheap price. However, like all good things, this place is no secret. So to avoid the lunchtime rush, we recommend you come early so that you can find a seat and get the full O’Bento experience. Offering a wide selection of warm Japanese dishes like Bento Boxes and nori rolls, treat your taste buds to something amazing.
Don Don Shop 6 340 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne Cheap, fast and tasty. Popular with students for a cheap but hearty lunch, Don Don has built quite the reputation around town. Serving Japanese food with a twist, you can expect to pay under $10 for a meal! Be careful though, this place is known as a lunch time spot, so don’t come here looking for dinner. Bento Box is our recommendation for this restaurant, and we are sure you won’t be disappointed. 9670 7113
Mon-Fri: 11am-3:30pm
Il Fornaio 2 Acland Street, St. Kilda This rustic little Italian St Kilda café is definitely a student hotspot. Offering traditional bakery style goods with a modern flavour, you will feel at home as you sip on a fine Italian coffee and bite into a savoury scroll, quiche or pizza slice. Il Fornaio also offers a set menu for breakfast and lunch, so bring a few friends along and have a bite before heading
32
Eating Out
9534 2922
Daily: 7am-10pm.
O’Bento Shop 315 Melbourne Central, LaTrobe St, Melbourne
9663 3323 9am-8pm.
Sat-Thu: 9am-6pm; Fri:
Sushi Burger @ Japanese J Café 167 Exhibition St. Melbourne It sounds strange, and well, quite frankly, it is strange! The name says it all. Showcasing a hybrid of cultures, Sushi Burger offers American style burgers made from traditional sushi ingredients. However, don’t be put off by the absurdity of this recipe! This café is busy and for a good reason. The burgers are fresh, healthy and incredibly tasty. Also offering a range of traditional Japanese dishes, you can even bring along the most
conservative of your friends. With most burgers under $6 and daily specials at $3.80, this experience won’t damage your bank account. 9650 9877 Lunch: Tue-Sat: 12pm-3pm; Dinner: Tue-Sat: 5:30am-9:30pm; Mon & Sun: Closed.
Red Pepper 16 Bourke Street, Melbourne If you are of Indian descent, you will be hard pressed not to find something at this restaurant that reminds you of home. Forget the mainstream version of Indian food that you find at most Australian-Indian restaurants, Red Pepper offers traditional dishes from all branches of Indian cuisine. With most main meals priced at under $12 and open until 3am each night, this joint is the ultimate stop to satisfy those midnight munchies! 9654 5714
Daily: 9am-3am
Supper Inn Chinese Restaurant 15 Celestial Avenue, Melbourne The food is awesome and so are the prices! While the interior may not be for everyone, it is simply some of the best Chinese food around town. This place is perfect for some late night eating or a quick meal before a big night. We highly recommend the Congee. 9663-4759
Daily: 5:30pm-2:30am
Threshermans Bakehouse 221 Faraday St, Carlton Sporting a cool rustic cafeteria layout, this cosy little joint is a student’s paradise.
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Drewe Clarke www.wemakestuffgood.com.au
Threshermans Bakehouse sells a huge range of regular lunch foods, including salads, pastas, baked goods and soups, as well as a range of baked cakes and deserts, so it is easy to halt those lunchtime stomach rumbles. Take a seat on the big tables (inside or outside) and absorb the hustle and bustle of this busy bakehouse. Located close to both RMIT and Uni Melbourne, there is no excuse not to burn off those extra calories by walking back to campus in time for that riveting 4pm lecture! 9349 2319
Daily: 6am-10:30pm
Desi Dhaba 134 Flinders Street, Melbourne One of our favourite restaurants, Desi Dhaba’s authentic approach to Indian cuisine is very much appreciated by late night party goers and students alike. Located on the edge of the CBD, you can get an amazing curry (with Naan) for under 10 bucks. Open late, find a seat at the long bar and order a drink from their extensive range of both Indian and Australian beer and spirits. 9650 9908 Mon-Fri: 9am-1am; Sat-Sun: 11am-1pm.
breakfast & coffee Sensory Lab 297 Little Collins St, Melbourne If you have never experienced the pleasure of cold drip or syphon style coffee before,
here is the place to start your journey. A range of single origin coffees are on offer, with widely varying flavours and helpful staff to guide you through the process of choosing one. The café also provides lunch-sized sit down meals which perfectly complement the coffee on offer. A delight for the senses indeed. 9643 2222 Mon-Wed: 7:30am-6pm; Thu: 7:30am-7pm; Fri: 7:30am-9pm; Sat 8am-7pm; Sun 8am-6pm
Crue 194 Toorak Rd, South Yarra A great little café with highly knowledgeable and friendly staff, serving up one of the best cups of coffee in the city. These guys are no amateurs, and will make you a cup of coffee that will knock your socks off! The house blend is delicious. The Columbian coffee is insanely smooth and will definitely wake up the sleepiest of students. This place gives off a unpretentious vibe and makes everyone feel welcome. We know you’ll love it. 0412 884 995 Mon-Fri: 7am-4pm; Sat: 8am-3pm; Sun: Closed.
Seven Seeds 114 Berkeley St, Carlton Seven Seeds pride themselves on sourcing the world’s best coffee, meticulously roasting it and selling it to those looking for that special cup. The delightfully modern interior of Seven Seeds is inviting to all those who come to visit. Located in Carlton and particularly close to
Uni Melbourne campuses, it is a great stop if you have a bit of time to kill. 9347 8664 Sun: 8am-4pm.
Mon-Sat: 7am-5pm;
Brother Baba Budan 359 Little Bourke St, Melbourne One of our favourites, this delightful cafe will amaze you with its flavours, and when one glances towards the ceiling, its decor. The large range of blends are all fair trade and cruelty free. This is one of the most popular cafés in Melbourne and has managed to attract a huge loyal customer base from a range of different clientele. Grabbing a coffee here in rush hour is quite an experience as the serious coffee drinkers line up in desperation for the morning cup. The house blend is something
Home cooked meal It may seem obvious, but many students don’t bother cooking at home and eat way too much expensive take away. Buying cheap ingredients from fresh food markets or supermarkets then making up your own meals can be a great way to save money, stay healthy and eat with friends in a comfortable setting.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
35
to experience, but be sure to check out the ever changing coffee of the day too. 9606 0449 Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm; Sat: 7:30am-5pm; Sun: Closed.
Degraves Espresso 23-25 Degraves St, Melbourne Situated in the street that is the true pinnacle of Melbourne’s breakfast culture, this is our favourite café on this well known strip. Offering a range of tasty breakfast options, including a huge variety of delicious paninis that you can see stacked in the windows, the coffee and the friendly staff are the reason we keep coming back. The breakfast crowd on this street demand quality, and Degraves Espresso delivers every time. 9654 1245 Mon-Wed: 7am-9:30pm; Thu: 7am-10pm; Fri: 7am-10:30pm; Sat: 8am-6:30pm; Sun: 8am-5:30pm.
The Journal Café 253-265 Flinders Lane, Melbourne The Journal Cafe is situated right next to the City Library, which makes it the perfect place to go before hitting the shelves for a big research assignment. This student hot spot serves great coffee and the staff are highly
9670 4002 Sat-Sun: Closed
Melbourne Coffee Review If you love your coffee and have an iPhone, check out the free app Melbourne Coffee Review. It features reviews of cafés all around Melbourne, as well as articles all written by self confessed coffee geeks.
St Ali 12-18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne St Ali is all about providing awesome coffee to those that crave it. The store mainly deals in wholesale coffee that you can take home and use yourself, but they also remain one of the best cafés in Melbourne in terms of coffee quality. Their tasty daytime menu of Middle Eastern style snacks have been highly recommended. But this café shines mainly due to the fact it focuses on sourcing the highest quality raw coffee and roasting it to perfection. 9686 2990 Sun: 8am-4pm.
36
Mon-Sat: 7am-5pm;
Eating Out
mornings before your classes. To add to this, the coffee is well priced, with espresso for as low as $2.50. The store is constantly experimenting with new and tasty coffee varieties from all over the world and obviously know their way around the coffee machine. If you feel like trying something new, try the Vanilla Frappolatte with Vienna Cream.
trained. Just across the corridor is an attached restaurant called Journal Canteen. The canteen specialises in quality antipasto food, so this is the perfect place to eat with a few mates. 9650 4399 Mon-Fri: 7am-9pm; Sat-Sun: 7am-6pm.
Dancing Goat Shop 4, 280 King St, Melbourne The Dancing Goat is actually home to the Victorian Barista of the Year, so you can be guaranteed a great cup of coffee in the
Mon-Fri: 7am-3pm;
casual restaurants Basque 159 Chapel Street, Prahran, Windsor Basque serves Spanish-inspired cuisine, which includes a Tapasstyle menu option and also standard meals. Their friendly staff are more than willing to help you pick out your dishes if this sort of food isn’t your usual fare. You can have a satisfying feed here for under $20, and wash it down with some homemade sangria, which was highly recommended to The Insider. We also advise trying the Pork Belly and Crispy Calamari. 9533 7044 Sun-Thu: 8am-10pm; Fri-Sat: 8am-1am.
Cafe Segovia 33 Block Pl, Melbourne Segovia has a nice friendly setting and hosts a quirky laneway atmosphere. This is a favourite for many locals in the area. Although the place seems to always be very busy, the staff seem to stay on top of
w w w.insider.net.au
the orders quite well. If you’re the kind that is able to get up early enough, they also offer particularly nice breakfasts. With live funky jazzy music on weekends adding to the already friendly atmosphere, Segovia offers modern European dishes including lunchtime snacks like foccacias and antipastos. There are also set meals available like pastas and pizzas. 9650 2373 Sun: 7am-6pm.
Mon-Sat: 7am-9:30pm;
Little Creatures Dining Hall 222 Brunswick St, Fitzroy Little Creatures is one of Australia’s finest breweries. They have taken the same dedication that they have to providing the country with a well loved beer and created a dining hall. Based in an old Fitzroy warehouse, the interior is decked out with a cool contemporary colonial decor which makes you feel like this place has one purpose, drinking! If you’re not a huge beer fan, they also accommodate cocktail and wine drinkers. If you’re heading out for a day and looking to bring back some souvenirs, they also have an incredibly well stocked bottle shop with the best beers from all over the country. 9417 5500 Sun-Wed: 10am-11pm; Thu-Sat: 10am-Midnight.
Chocolate Buddha Federation Square, Melbourne Chocolate Buddha has absolutely nothing to do with chocolate. This Japanese style dining hall is set right in the heart of the City. It is perfect
if you’re in town looking for a place to pop into for a casual feed. Serving all the traditional Japanese favourites such as sushi, ramen and donburi, they also serve sake the traditional way, so if you have a Japanese background you might find this place quite a treat. 9654 5688
Daily: Noon-11:30pm.
Gills Diner Gills Alley (rear of 360 Little Collins St), Melbourne Gills is a unique eatery in the heart of Melbourne CBD. Gills has a very simple but fitting interior, reminding you of how you used to enjoy sitting in the school cafeteria at lunch times. In the background you can hear relaxing, soulful music and the friendly chatter of day-to-day life. They serve French and Italian style dishes for moderate prices. Be sure to check out the large chalk boards as you walk in for the current specials. 9670 7214 Mon: Noon-4pm; Tue-Fri: Noon-10pm; Sat: 5pm-10pm.
Mess Hall 51 Bourke St, Melbourne The Mess Hall is a particularly interesting place to sit down for a meal and embrace the atmosphere. Based on an old army eating area (as the name suggests), the Mess Hall has a hint of modern quirkiness. Although, don’t let the name fool you, the food is nothing like military food, and the staff won’t be giving orders. The dishes are sensational, the
TOP5.
PUB MEALS 1.
Chicken Parma
AKA Chicken Parmigiana, it’s a chicken schnitzel with a layer of tomato based sauce and grated cheese.
2.
Beer Battered Fish & Chips
The name says it all, the fish is deep fried in a batter made of beer!
3.
Beef Burger (with the lot)
“The Lot” can really mean a lot! Sometimes comes with beetroot, egg and bacon.
4.
Wedges
Comes with sour cream and sweet chili sauce. Usually shared with mates but can quite easily turn into a substitute dinner.
5.
Caesar Salad
Comes with or without chicken, it’s a great alternative to some of the more filling pub meals.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
37
Photo: Drewe Clarke Food: Court Jester www.wemakestuffgood.com.au
atmosphere is very relaxing and the staff are all very attentive and polite. 9654 6800 Mon-Thu: 7:30am-8pm; Fri: 7:30am-10pm; Sat: 7:30am-10pm; Sun: 7:30am-6pm.
Baraki Upo Mezethes 168 Lonsdale St, Melbourne This place is a quaint little shop with an interesting and quirky layout. There is obviously a number of Mediterranean influences. A band is regularly playing live jazz and soul music and the food is delicious and moderately priced. The menu has many Mediterranean/Greek classic dishes and some modern and innovative additions that are definitely worth giving a shot. We recommend trying the Red Wine Octopus and the Halloumi (goat’s cheese). 9663 9971 Mon: Noon-4pm; Tue-Fri: Noon-10:30pm; Sat: 5pm-10pm.
Upmarket Restaurants We know the average student won’t be able to afford these restaurants, so we recommend getting your parents to pay if they come to visit! Circa, The Prince 2 Acland St, St Kilda Circa adds a creative element to the traditional dining experience. Eating here is just like eating in the middle of a modern art gallery. This is fitting scenario since the food and beverages here are brimming with originality, but not to the point where any quality is sacrificed. Also hosting a stunning lounge area for pre-dinner
drinks, Circa The Prince will definitely impress your parents with your taste in sophisticated wining and dining. The Insider recommends the Char Grilled Veal. Remember that the menu is a little more pricey than your average restaurant so check the online menus to make sure you (or your parents) can afford it. 9536 1122 Daily: 7am-11am; Sun: Noon-3:30pm; Mon-Sat: 6:30pm10:30pm
Flower Drum 17 Market Lane, Melbourne The Flower Drum is one of Melbourne’s finest high end restaurants. Serving Cantonese cuisine to an amazing standard, this is your chance to show your parents some of the finest food Melbourne has to offer. The service is first class and the atmosphere is highly genuine and very pleasant. We recommend trying the Fresh King Prawns in Mandarin Sauce. 9662 3655 Mon-Sat: Noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun: 6pm-10:30pm
The French Brasserie 2 Malthouse La, Melbourne As the name hints, this eatery takes the feel of an upmarket French brasserie and merges it with the class and style of downtown Melbourne. The French Brasserie provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. It serves authentic modern French dishes, each with its own little piece of creative flair. We recommend trying the Fleurs De Courgette (zuchinni flowers filled with caramalised onions).
Vegetarian, Halal, Speciality Vegie Bar 378 Brunswick St, Fitzroy Vegie Bar offers a healthy and natural alternative to traditional take out. The shop is youthful, fun and creative! You can either dine in or, if you prefer eating in the comfort of your own home, you can take away. The shop sells a range of different pizzas, pasta dishes, roast vegetable dishes and noodle dishes. They
How would you like your eggs? There are several ways to have your eggs served. If you have a preference be sure to let the waiter know.
Fried,
Pan fired, often with oil.
Poached,
Boiled in water, with no oil or salt.
Scrambled. Mixed and beaten in a pan, usually mixed with some herbs and cheese.
9662 1632 Mon-Fri: Noon-3pm; Mon-Sat: 6pm-10:30pm
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
39
Beer me! Confused with beer sizes in this country? ...So are we! It seems like everywhere you go in Australia the glasses have a different name. It’s one of the most common frustrations for overseas & interstate visitors. Here’s what we call them in Melbourne:
Pot 285ml
10 Ounces
Schooner 425ml 15 Ounces
Pint 570ml
20 Ounces
40
Eating Out
also serve a delicious range of smoothies and fresh juices. If you have always thought that Tofu is tasteless, we advise you try the smoked tofu dishes and have your world rocked!
you try the prawn masala. You can be sure that whatever you choose to eat, you will find a nice glass of wine to accompany your meal from Curry Vault’s extensive wine list.
9417 6935 Mon-Thu: 11am-10pm; Fri: 11am-10:30pm; Sat: 8am-10:30pm; Sun: 8am-10pm.
9600 0144 Mon-Fri: 11:30am10:30pm; Sat: 5:30pm-10:30pm.
Lentil as Anything 41 Blessington St, St Kilda Lentil as Anything is more than just a restaurant serving cheap meals. It’s a concept and statement dedicated to multiculturalism, education and equality in Australia. Offering a range of healthy and tasty dishes, the customers here nominate the price that they are willing to pay and, in most cases, the proprietors will accept this. Lentil as Anything can be found at five different locations around Melbourne, each supported by their local community, raising money for various charities. If you get the chance to dine at this restaurant, we recommend that you try the Toasted Vegie and Tofu Burgers. 9534 5833
Soul Mama 10 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda Soul Mama is a vegetarian restaurant that overlooks St Kilda’s coastline. The restaurant offers organic, buffet style meals, serving an interesting range of organic Australian wines and non-alcoholic beverages. The restaurant has a clean, friendly, upmarket feel and has a number of different sized buffet options. Whether you are coming in for a full sized meal or just a snack, Soul Mama has something for you. The restaurant also offers banquet options for large groups. Something to consider next time you are out with a bunch of friends. 9525 3338 6pm-10pm.
Daily Noon-3pm,
Mon-Sun: Noon-10pm.
Curry Vault 18-20 Bank Pl, Melbourne Curry Vault serves a wide range of traditional Indian and Pakistani dishes. Main meal prices range from $15 - $25. If you’re from this region you will surely find something here that reminds you of home. Providing personal and efficient service, the restaurant offers banquets, allowing you to experience a number of dishes in one night. However, if you are dining a la carte, we recommend that
w w w.insider.net.au
Australian Cuisine Schnitzel & Steak Toppings Australians are notorious for adding condiments and extra ingredients to the top of schnitzels and steaks. Two common examples of this are the ‘Surf and Turf’ or ‘Beef and Reef’ option available at many restaurants. This is basically prawns placed on top of either a schnitzel or a steak then covered in a sauce. The list of these topping options are endless. Some other popular examples include Kilpatrick (worstechire, barbeque sauce and bacon), Mexican (salsa, mozzarella and jalapenos) and Parmigiana (mozarella, bacon and a fresh tomato sauce) Meat Pie & Sausage Rolls Australian lunch time meals are often sourced from the bakery or deli. Many of these bakery style foods usually involve some kind of meat or poultry wrapped in pastry. Some common examples include the meat pie, sausage roll and pasty. We highly recommend adding tomato sauce to all of these during consumption. If you ever get the chance to try a Ned Kelly pie (eggs, bacon and tomato in a pie), grab it!
Seafood Since the majority of Australian cities are coastal, seafood has always been a popular choice for meals. Some particularly nice seafood that we recommend trying while you are here include King George Whiting, Morton Bay Bugs and Barramundi. Seafood is often brought out on special occasions. If you tried some seafood back at home and didn’t like it, we advise giving it another shot here in Australia as it might surprise you. Aussie Breakfast Breakfast in Australia may, in some situations, be as simple as a couple of slices of toast or a bowl of cereal. Many cafés and restaurants serve a traditional style Australian breakfast, this usually includes eggs, bacon, fried tomatoes, baked beans and sometimes hash browns.
The Barbeque You’re in Australia, barbecues happen! The staple BBQ ingredients: beer, beef sausages, sliced bread, onion and tomato sauce. But don’t be disheartened if you don’t eat meat and drink beer like many of the local students do! Why not try cooking up some veggie burgers, falafels or tofu kebabs? Or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, grab a recipe for stuffed tomato or zucchini. (google ‘vegetarian bbq’ for some great ideas) It’s a good idea to bring something to contribute too. Potato, pasta & green salads are common side dishes. You might find yourself in a game of cricket, don’t panic! Just hit the ball and run! Remember the Aussie bbq hierarchy! Only one person should be flipping the meat, one person should be poking the sausages and 4-5 men should be standing around watching the bbq with a drink in their hand, not helping at all.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
41
Wake up and smell the beans! Steamed Milk
Milk Foam
Espresso
Chocolate Syrup
Whipped Cream
Photo: Drewe Clarke www.wemakestuffgood.com.au
Nightlife
Melbourne has the most diverse and hottest bars in the country. Over the last few years, the nightlife culture has grown from strength to strength, with now over 1000 bars, pubs and nightclubs. Most locals will tell you that a having a local friend to guide you is the best way to find the hidden secrets that this vibrant city has to offer. However, as an international student in a new city, finding a local friend isn’t always that easy. We’re here to help!
night cafés just waiting for you to check out. Did we mention that Melbourne has a worldwide reputation for making some of the best coffee in the world?
If you are after a quiet night out at the cinema, Melbourne has a huge range of them scattered around the CBD and beyond. You can choose to see a range of foreign language films, blockbusters and everything in between at big and small cinemas (indoor and outdoor)!
If you want to step it up and head out for a quiet drink with friends, you are in for a treat. Over the past few years, many pubs have had a face lift and joined the long list of stylish bars that Melbourne is so famous for. Unlike many other cities around Australia, Melbourne bars have a very high standard when it comes to quality. And they are everywhere! A stumble down a side street may find you at the door of one of Melbourne’s hidden bar secrets. For those that are interested in cocktails, Melbourne cocktail bars offer some of the world’s best.
Don’t worry if you aren’t into drinking alcohol, the nightlife of Melbourne still caters for you! The CBD has hundreds of late
If you are a music fan, you can expect some of Australia’s top live music on show in Melbourne pubs and bars. We rec-
44 w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
ommend keeping some online gig guides saved on your web browsers as you never know when your favourite band might be coming to town. We recommend the website: www.beat.com.au/gigguide. If seeing music isn’t enough, and you need to sing in front of your friends, then you need a good Karaoke lounge. Melbourne has you covered here too. You can find our recommendations in this section. For the real party goers who are in need of a cranking pub or nightclub, you can be guaranteed that Melbourne will not leave you dissatisfied. Let The Insider show you how to make the most of Melbourne nightlife, and you can buy us a beer to say thank you! Before we get started, here are some areas you should know about.
Fitzroy Fitzroy is a great nightlife destination for those interested in the pub atmosphere. Despite the whole suburb being relatively small, there is a huge number of pubs and live music venues. Bar Open and the Evelyn Hotel are some highlights of this buzzing suburb. Brunswick Street is full of all things colourful and arty, and you can be sure to see a very diverse mix of people as you walk down the street. The majority of bars and clubs here have a very homely feel and a warm atmosphere. We advise checking out Polly Bar as an Insider favourite.
46
Nightlife
St. Kilda
Carlton
According to some locals, St Kilda used to have the reputation of being the home of drug lords and prostitutes. However, this is no longer the case. St Kilda has a number of bustling touristy streets filled with picturesque views, bay side cafés and pumping bars. St Kilda is only a short tram ride from the city so if you are looking to get out of the CBD for a night this is definitely a place worth having a look at. Why not go down for an afternoon at the beach and stop off at one of the trendy bars or cafés afterwards. If you’re a live music fan we highly recommend visiting the Esplanade Hotel. Aclan Street is probably one of the best places to walk down when you first arrive. Remember to check the times for the trams if you’re planing to find your way back to the city late.
Carlton is located close to a number of universities, so if you’re looking for a place to hang out and not too keen on travelling, this might be the place for you. Lygon Street, located in the Italian district has a number of quaint latenight cafés and eateries that are a good alternative to the pub/ club atmosphere. We highly recommend Brunettis Café.
Richmond If you are looking for something a little more trendy, this might be a place worth checking out. We particularly advise visiting Bridge Road. Bridge Road is known as a shopping district, but there are also a massive number of classy and chic modern bars, restaurants and cafés to be found. If you are particularly interested in trying some local Australian wine, there are a large number of wine bars worth finding.
South yarra & Prahran If you have some money and you are heading south of the river for a night out, we recommend that you first head to Chapel Street, one of the most stylish streets in Melbourne. Prahran is a great place to go if you’re not keen on having a big one. Check out the world famous Astor Theatre, which seats over 1100 people.
cinemas Sun Theatre 8 Ballarat Street, Yarraville An absolute classic for Melburnians, The Sun showcases six of the most stunning boutique cinema rooms in Melbourne. This whole theatre used to only have one screen, and the room could hold 1050 people! The new renovation hasn’t destroyed the feel of this place, with each room offering a stylish, intimate experience for patrons. We recommend buying a bottle of wine from the bar to share, and heading into the
w w w.insider.net.au
cinema called The Davis, which has a huge amount of leg room and will be sure to give you a delightful movie experience. Palace Cinema Como Corner of Toorak Rd and Chapel St, South Yarra The cinema for the stylish and those who will settle for no less than luxury. The Palace Kino is one of Australia’s best in offering high quality international arthouse foreign language films and other movies you are unlikely to catch at major cinemas. Located 200m from South Yarra train station, the ultra-glamorous licensed bar inside will provide the perfect backdrop for sophisticated movie conversation, or perhaps a fiery debate! Hoyts Central Cnr Swanston & Latrobe Street Located in the centre of town, Hoyts Central offers way more than your average major cinema chain. Showcasing the newest blockbusters in modern, ultra comfortable cinemas, Hoyts take the experience a bit further. Within the Directors Suite, you receive subtle service of drinks (cocktails and wine) and finger food, while relaxing in comfy reclining chairs. If this is a bit much, you can head into the Halfpipe, where you can snuggle up on bean bags while you watch the movie. We highly recommend this cinema. Village Jam Factory 500 Chapel St, South Yarra A cinema which caters to all lovers of film, the Village Cinema offer connoisseurs a
fine selection of European films, blockbusters and everything in between. With the enormous V Max cinema having big arm rests, comfy seats and plenty of leg room, try not to get so comfortable that you actually fall asleep (we all know it has happened to you too!). For those looking to impress someone special, take them into the Gold Class cinema where the screens are huge, the champagne is flowing and the sound will be sure to blow you away.
Cocktails & Wine Cocktail bars and lounges provide you with a personal environment, away from loud music and raving drunkards. If you’re looking to get to know a new friend or hoping to get to know that special someone a little more intimately, these places provide the perfect atmosphere. You have probably noted by now that Melburnians take style very seriously. Cocktail culture is an art and a science in this city, so we recommend experiencing it. This can, however, be an expensive experience. Most cocktail bars do have specials offered daily so be sure to check these out before you order. Cookie 1/252 Swanston St, Melbourne This one is a Melbourne institution, with it being so popular on Friday and Saturday night it is always quite hard to get in. We recommend checking this place out during the week. With a strange but fantastic
TOP5.
AUSSIE FILMS 1.
The Castle
(1997)
The original Australian underdog story. A family living near Melbourne Airport fight eviction. Many have tried and failed to capture the essence of this movie. Straight to the pool room.
2.
Gallipoli (1981)
Set during WW1, this film tells the story of the ANZACs from the perspective of two young Australians sent to Turkey. Worth watching if you’re interested in Australia’s involvement in The Great War.
3. Two Hands (1999) Set in the world of underground crime in Sydney, Heath Ledger plays a 19-year-old in serious trouble with a local gangster.
4. Mad Max (1979) Mel Gibson stars as Max, a desperate man with nothing to lose in a post-apocalyptic vision of Australia. It’s got guns, gangs and lots of modified cars.
He Died with
5. a Felafel in
His Hand(2001)
Based on the novel by John Birmingham, this film follows the east coast share house adventures of Danny.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
47
TOP5.
COCKTAILS 1.
The Spice Ay Life
Seamstress
15 year old single malt scotch with grilled pineapple syrup, lemon pulp and chili.
Latin
2. Threesome
Der Raum
Pitú Cachaça from Brazil, Capel Alto de Carmen Chilean Pisco grape brandy, and Havana Club Añejo Reserva, with crushed pineapple, fresh lime juice, and brown sugar served in a double old-fashioned glass.
3.
Single Blossom Golden Monkey
Housemade Rosemary syrup, Pesychaud’s bitters and Marmalade slowly stirred over ice with a healthy dose of Wyborowa Vodka Zybrowka Vodka, Lemoncello Liqueur & Pesychaud’s bitters.
4. Mint Julep
Mink
Mint, bourbon, sugar and water served over crushed or shaved ice.
5.
Dirty Hendrix Martini 1806
Hendrix Gin and a dash of vermouth in an iced glass, with a few drops of olive brain and a pitted green olive.
48
Nightlife
mix of art and weird objects lining the walls, it is hard to not be impressed. It only gets better when you see the amazing cocktail list and one of the biggest beer lists we have ever seen. Perfect for a chilled out drink with a friend. 1300 555 400
Daily Noon -3am
Red Hummingbird 1st Floor, 246 Russell Street, Melbourne Look for the red birdcage swinging above the door because this place has no obvious signs out the front. However, if you manage to get inside you will be treated to a cosy bar that will make you want to snuggle up on the comfy couches and share a drink with friends. Boasting a great wine list, we recommend heading upstairs to enjoy the city views and the always entertaining swinging chairs. 9654 2266 Tue-Thu: 4pm-1am; Fri: 4pm-3am; Sat: 6pm-3am; Sun & Mon: Closed.
Der Raum 438 Church St, Richmond A finalist as the best cocktail bar in Australia in 2009 (as rated at the 2009 Australian Bar Awards), this one is widely regarded as one of the best in Melbourne. Using only freshly pressed juices, their cocktail menu consequently changes with the seasons. There is no doubt in the collective mind of The Insider that you will be astounded at the selection of drinks and the talent of the bartenders. 9428 0055
Daily: 5pm-1am
Hells Kitchen 20 Centre Pl, Melbourne Hidden away down an alley off Flinders Lane, you will find one of Melbourne’s coolest bars (although a café during the day). With all the wines chosen from boutique vineyards and a grand selection of spirits on offer, a must try is the homemade chilli-infused vodka. We recommend trying the Huda beer from Vietnam. However, the selling point for us though is the welcoming vibe. It isn’t pretentious in the slightest and we are sure you will enjoy it. 9654 5755 Mon-Tue: 11am-11pm; Wed - Sat: 11am - 1am
1806 169 Exhibition St, Melbourne 1806 is apparently the year that the first cocktail was ever made. So for namesake, this bar is completely decked out as a classic cocktail lounge. With decor taken straight out of the turn of 1800s, this bar actually makes you feel like you have travelled back over 100 years. The cocktail menu is a chronologically dedicated to the history of cocktails and those people throughout history who have enjoyed the artistic side of alcohol. The mixologists are top notch, turning cocktails into a science, art and lifestyle. If you’re heading here we recommend preparing to spend a bit. To get in the right mood we suggest you try a Dirty Hendrix Martini or a Makers Mark Old Fashioned. 9663 7722 Mon-Thu: 5pm-3am; Fri: 4pm - 5am; Sat: 6pm - 5am; Sun: 7pm - 3am
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Ashley Ringrose
Party Pubs / Student Bars Many campuses do have pretty awesome bars on-campus, so be sure to keep your eyes out for these. Usually after major events on the student calender there will be something going on. However, there are several places around town that fill up with students and provide a particularly warm, fun and youthful atmosphere. Below are some spots we advise checking out. Eurotrash 18 Corrs Lane, Melbourne Stocking a range of European beers, the highlight of this bar is the magnificently bizarre clash of cultures from Europe. You can find yourself chatting to a friend in a typical French café booth, and the next minute find yourself drinking smooth beers at the German bar or getting comfy in the Turkish harem couches. If you are an international student from one of the countries they have obviously been influenced by, you will probably either totally hate it or completely love it. Either way, it is worth checking out during your stay. 9654 4411 Tue-Thu: 5pm-Late; Fri: 3pm - Late: Sat: 6pm -Late: Sun: 6pm - Late
Mink 2B Acland St, St Kilda Looking for a cool place to chill out on a balmy summer night? Mink is the answer. Being underground, Mink stays cool even when it is blistering hot outside. With Russian-themed
50
Nightlife
decor and an exclusive range of infused and top shelf vodkas on offer, it is hard to not to feel like you are sitting in a millionaire’s loft. Indulge in table service after you have curtained yourself off from the crowds while enjoying the worldly yet funk-filled tunes. One for those that crave quality, privacy and a chilled out atmosphere. 9536 1199 Mon-Tue: Noon-1am; Wed-Thu: Noon-2am; Fri-Sat: Noon-3am; Sun: Noon-2am
The Workshop Level 1, 413 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne One of The Insider’s favourites, The Workshop was originally a motorcycle repair shop! However, it has magnificently managed to take the industrial look and blend it perfectly with a more modern and chic style. Work your way through the bar and find yourself a nice little private area to sit and admire the constantly changing art exhibited here. The crowd ranges from savvy business types to the most wild minded creatives. A great place to get a real feel of the Melbourne bar culture. Free WiFi Internet and $10 jugs of Monteiths beers on Mondays. 9326 4365 Mon-Tue: 10am-Late; Wed-Thu: 10am-2am: Fri: 10am - 3am; Sat: 1pm - 3am; Sun: 1pm -Midnight
Miss Libertine 34 Franklin St, Melbourne While it looks like an unassuming worker’s pub from the outside, this one has also had a face-lift and now attracts a range of clientele ranging from business and council workers to uni students. Positioned
close to several universities, live music and DJs play on selected days, with their sound pumped through their quirky and original speaker set-up. During the day, Miss Libertine is one of the best restaurants in the area, with pizzas that will make you come back again and again in your study breaks. 9663 6855 Mon-Wed: 10am-Midnight; Thu: 10am-1am: Sat: 10pm - 5am; Sun: Noon - 5am
The Carlton 193 Bourke Street, Melbourne A bar crawl through the Melbourne CBD is not complete without a stop into this newly redesigned bar. When we say newly redesigned we mean it has turned from what locals say was one of the scariest pubs in Melbourne to one of the most fun, creative and wackiest. With neon chandeliers hanging above you while you drink and stuffed animals perched around watching you, one cannot help but feel like you have entered an alternate dimension. The food is excellent and we recommend trying the steak, which is delicious. 9663 3246 Mon-Thu: 4pm-Late; Fri: Noon-Late: Sat-Sun: 4pm - Very Late; Sun: 7pm - 3am
Karaoke & Alternative The Croft Institute 21 Croft Alley, Melbourne A stroll down Croft Alley, dodging a chef having a cigarette break while sitting on a milk crate, and around a few
w w w.insider.net.au
Language of the Night
the next drinks for the group? If the next one is on you, then get your wallet out!
“Down the hatch!” Simply means: “drink up!”
“Line em up!”
“Are you having a big “Picking up” one?”
Usually refers to drinking shots (30ml of spirits) as a group.
Or sometimes: “Are you going hard tonight?”. These are questions related to the length and stamina of your evening. It is asking if you will be out late. It may also be asking if you plan to do this in a fun and perhaps drunken manner.
“Taxi!!!” If someone drops a glass or falls over in a bar, locals yell taxi. This means that it’s probably time to go home, this is usually just a joke.
“Whose round is it?” Or “The next one is on me!”. Australians tend to buy drinks as a group. This could be for efficiency or simply because some people don’t like to pay for their own drinks. So when someone asks “Whose round is it?”, this means: who is buying
Or: “hooking up”, refers to finding love out on the town.
“Pissed” Or: hammered, gone, poleaxed, messy, smashed, tanked, maggot, out of it, trashed... all refer having too much to drink. Enjoy responsibly!
“I’m bailing” Or: bolting, jetting, scooting, heading off, piss bolting, cruising, buggering off, piking... all refer to someone leaving at the end of the night, or during (piker!)
“What’s your poison?” What kind of drink would you like?
Aussie Slang Dictionary. Bloody oath! - I certainly agree Cark it - to sleep or expire Cranky - in a bad mood Crook - to be unwell or not right Crow eater - a person from SA Dag - to be dressed poorly Dero - to be uncouth Duffer - idiot Dunny - toilet Durry - cigarette (often rolled) Esky - portable ice box Fair go - be fair now Galah - idiot or fool Gobsmacked - lost for words Going off - it is going well Heaps - a large amount Franger - condom Hoon - a person who drives fast Longneck - approx. 750ml beer bottle
Pash - a kiss with some tongue Perve - to sexually admire visually Piece of piss - quite simple Pig’s arse - highly unlikely Piker - leaves prior to the climax Rock up - arrive at a destination She’ll be right - all will be ok Slab - a 24 pack of beer Snag - a sausage Spewin’ - oh my gosh Squizz - a small look Stellar - very good Stoked - to be quite happy with Stubby - apr. a 350 ml beer bottle Sunnies - sunglasses Whinge - to complain Wuss - to act like a baby Yobbo - rude male
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
51
rubbish bins will find you at an unmarked door which leads you to one of the most interesting, strangest yet undoubtedly one of the most awesome bars in Melbourne. This science labthemed bar will have you drinking delicious concoctions out of test tubes while gazing at the bizarrely clinical decor. This place attracts a cool crowd of 20-30 year olds and very rarely any idiots. There is a dance floor upstairs which pumps Electro too for those looking for a little more. We highly recommend this one, and recommend a Ron Matusalem with dry ginger ale. 9671 4399 Mon-Thu: 5pm-1am; Fri: 5pm-3am; Sat: 7pm-3am.
Section 8 27-29 Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne What do you get with a shipping container and some free space in an alley? One of the best bars in Melbourne! Situated down Tattersalls Lane near Little Bourke St, this cleverly designed bar looks like it has been put up temporarily, with many of the seats being neatly stacked wooden pallets and the well stocked bar operating from a window in the shipping container. But all this just adds to the great vibe of this place, with a live DJ often spinning decks and even MC battles taking place here. 0422 972 656 Mon-Wed: 8am-11pm; Thu-Fri: 8am-1am; Sat: Noon-1am; Sun: Noon-11pm.
52
Nightlife
Korova Milk Bar 12 Bourke St, Melbourne In terms of themed bars, this one has to be given all the points for effort. Based on the futuristic (and slightly insane) bar in Stanley Kubric’s Clockwork Orange, the main selling point for this place is definitely the decor. With psychedelic black swirls all over the walls and mannequins scattered around, it is a wonder that anyone can really wind down in this place. However, it draws a big crowd and is a great dance club after 10pm. We recommend trying the Moloko, which is a fruit/icecream based cocktail. 9654 3965
Fri-Sat: 10pm-6am.
Dance Clubs There’s something exciting about lots of people crammed into a small space dancing to a DJ playing music a few decibels above the medically advised level. If you’re looking for a place to let your hair down and have some real fun we advise having a look at the places below. Beware, there will probably be lines on busy nights and the atmosphere may be a little overwhelming for some.
range of clientele. With an industrial feel balanced out with cool dim lighting, chic furniture and a stunning outdoor area, it oozes cool. Prices are pretty reasonable too! 0422 972 656 Noon-2am.
Mon-Sun:
Billboards 170 Russell Street, Melbourne The classic dance club of Melbourne, Billboards is a massive complex that you will struggle to stand still in. Playing a range of Top 40 hits and R&B tunes all night, Billboards has a nice chilled out bar so you can relax in your breaks from dancing. We recommend getting here early on Saturday night as you will struggle to get in if you leave it too late. It is definitely big enough to spend a whole night in (capacity is around 1000 people!!), and we are sure you will enjoy it. Saturday nights here are arguably the best party in Melbourne’s nightlife. 0422 972 656 Mon-Wed: 8am-11pm; Thu&Fri: 8am-1am: Sat : Noon-1pm: Sun: Noon-11pm
Transport Federation Square, Melbourne While this bar has a massive dance floor and is a cranking club late at night, it is also fantastic to chill out with a drink while looking over the Yarra River. This place is one of the biggest Melbourne has to offer, and is popular with a massive
w w w.insider.net.au
•
Drink less, order drinks with less alcohol in them or drink alcohol that is not good to be consumed with speed, like stouts.
The next morning
Hang Over Cures
•
More water. Water is what we are made of.
•
Deep fried or oil cooked breakfast. We aren’t sure scientifically what this does, but at the least you will have something to occupy your mind.
•
Pain killers. This is a common quick-fix, but it simply combats the after effects of one drug (alcohol) with another. While it may help you, it isn’t good for your liver. A last resort cure!
•
Amino acid tablets. These are scientifically proven to work.
Only drink on a full stomach, eat before and during drinking. If it comes back up, it’s probably better that way anyway. Don’t fight it.
•
Eat foods that are high in Vitamin B. It just so happens that Australia’s favourite breakfast spread Vegemite is surprisingly effective after a big night.
Dehydration makes your brain hurt. Drink water or a sports drink before you go to sleep to regain some electrolytes and glucose.
•
While we don’t really recommend this one, some people believe the best hangover cure is to ‘get up and get back on it’. This means having a drink in the morning (many Australians call this event ‘hair of the dogs back’). Although temporarily
Prevention •
•
effective, it is basically prolonging the inevitable. Everyone knows you don’t get a hangover until you stop drinking. •
Get outside and go for a jog followed by a cold shower. This might sound like a terrible idea given your potentially fragile state but it is an effective way to get alcohol out of your system.
If all else fails... These “cures” might be worth a shot, but probably not. NOTE: the following cures have only been tested by The Insider team: •
Blended radish and lemon juice shot
•
Mexican food
•
Rubbing your armpits with citrus fruits - yes you read correctly.
•
Place fourteen black pins into the cork of the last bottle you drank
Remember: There’s no better cure than simply knowing your limits.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
53
Live Music
The Night Cat 141 Johnston St, Fitzroy
Live music comes is abundant in Melbourne’s cosmopolitan centre. No matter your musical interests, the Victorian music scene has you covered. We have included in the following section a list of some of the best places that Melburnians venture to when the craving for live music hits.
The Cat is full of big band, swing, modern jazz and traditional jazz music. The venue also has a large dance floor, so if you are interested in putting the dancing shoes on and hitting the D floor don’t hesitate to give this place a shot. See their MySpace for more details on which night will suit you.
Cherry Bar 103-105 Flinders Lane (ACDC Lane), Melbourne Cherry is one of Melbourne’s most frequented rock bars, often hosting both popular local and international rock and alternative acts. The bar is also particularly well known for its soul nights that run every Thursday night. Check Cherry’s MySpace to see the acts that will be playing in the future.
Paris Cat Jazz Club 6 Goldie Pl, Melbourne This venue is one of the new homes of live Jazz in Melbourne, and one of the most talked about. If you are after a relaxed night sipping on classic cocktails and listening to the smooth sounds of jazz, this place is certainly for you. 9642 4711
9639 8122
Ding Dong Lounge 18 Market Lane, Melbourne Sister bar to New York’s famous Ding Dong lounge, Melbourne’s Ding Dong provides rockers with the perfect location to meet up with mates and see a few bands. This venue has had an impressive list of famous local and international acts feature in the past. Some majors include Foo Fighters, MGMT, Muse and the Guns and Roses. Most nights of the week they have something interesting going on so check out their online gig guide to see if anything suits you: dingdonglounge.com.au.
Roar Sounds @ The Zoo The Melbourne Zoo often hosts live music over the sunny seasons. Live music, twilight and a bunch of animals is a very unique combination, we highly recommend checking it out.
•
Regent Theatre
•
Plaza Ballroom
•
Princess Theatre
•
Comedy Theatre
•
Forum Melbourne
These theatres as a collective have hosted just about every form of creative live entertainment that you can think of. No matter what your musical or stage interests are, you can find something that interests you at one of these. For more information about what’s on see the website below and go to the ‘What’s On’ section: marrinertheatres.com.au Malthouse Theatre 113 Sturt St, Southbank If you are interested in seeing some contemporary Australian stage productions this is pretty much the place for you to be. The Malthouse provides a place for patrons to sit down for a nice evening to view some of the finest up and coming theatre performances. 9685 5111
Festival Hall 300 Dudley St, Docklands This is one of Melbourne’s most popular large concert venues. It is advised to buy tickets beforehand for large concerts, although on some occasions tickets are available at the door. The venue is relatively close to the city centre and is easily accessible by public transport. 9329 9699
9662 1020
56
9417 0090
Marriner Theatres This theatre group includes,
Nightlife
w w w.insider.net.au
The Esplanade Hotel 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda Renowned as one of the premier live music venues in Australia, you cannot go past ‘The Espy’ (as the locals call it) if you want to get a taste of established touring artists or up-and-coming local musicians. Showcasing the best of a range of genres including hip hop and dance music, The Espy always delivers when it comes to seeing quality live music. Comedians also perform here regularly, which is something you have to check out as Australian comedians are some of the world’s best and have a very unique sense of humour.
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
Explore
If you are interested in venturing out of the house and checking out what Melbourne and the rest of Victoria has to offer, knowing where to start can be difficult. If you are interested in exploring local sites, there are a myriad of great things to check out such as galleries, museums, fun parks, an aquarium and so much more. If you are feeling a little more adventurous and want to get out of Melbourne for some action, Victoria showcases some of Australia’s best snow fields, paintball parks, rock climbing areas, bush walking tracks and bike riding trails. For those that want to explore the stunning coastal towns and Australia’s famous beaches, the Great Ocean Road is world famous for its beautiful scenery, camping spots, cliff side drives and much more.
For the international student who wants to ‘go bush’, there are numerous camping spots such as the famous Grampians, where you can sleep under the stars, stay up late with friends and enjoy the peace and quiet. Be careful though, the Australian outback can be dangerous if you aren’t prepared, so it is worth taking a few precautions which we will mention. So if you have a few days free, or even just one day, we highly recommend getting out of the city and exploring the parts that make Victoria one of the most beautiful states in Australia.
58 w w w.insider.net.au
Renting a Car? Call Europcar on 1300 13 13 90 europcar.com.au
Quote The Insider reference number below for a discounted rate!
REF: 50383341
Photo: Samantha Lee
activities There are a few activities we highly recommend trying. Melbourne caters for the curious and adventurous student with a range of different options. Rock Climbing Victoria has incredible climbs for those looking for a bit of adventure in Australia. As it is important you only go climbing with the right gear and with experienced climbers, we recommend joining rock climbing clubs at the different universities. For those who like to climb, but don’t want to leave the city, there is a rock climbing gym at 501 Swanston St, close to RMIT. This is the best place to head for beginners, as there are instructors present who will make sure you have a great time. For the more hard-core and experienced, Mt Arapiles, near Horsham in western Victoria is the best place to go. This place takes about 4.5 hours to get there in the car so you will need some kind of transport. There is a good quality gear shop and the place is often full of friendly professional climbers. It is popular due to the quality and quantity of fantastic climbs. Surfing You have chosen the right part of Australia for surfing! The Great Ocean Road attracts thousands of surfers a year, who hunt for the best waves along this beautiful coastline. Bells Beach is the most famous beach in Victoria, playing host to several professional surfing
60
Explore
competitions every year. Surrounded by stunning forest and coastal scenery, Anglesea is The Insider’s recommendation for surfing beginners and is definitely worth a visit with your new friends. A good surf school we recommend is ‘Go Ride A Wave’ gorideawave.com.au. They have shop fronts in Torquay, Anglesea, Ocean Grove and Lorne, which are all fantastic surf spots. Skiing & Snowboarding Once you are over the shock of learning that it does actually snow in Australia, go hire (or buy) some gear and get out there! Victoria has a few fantastic spots for skiing and snowboarding. We recommend Mt Buller as the most accessible, at only 3.5 hours from Melbourne. Mt Hotham (5.5 hours from Melbourne) is also an amazing place to check out, as it is one of Australia’s highest alpine villages and offers breathtaking views. Both of these places offer ski schools, but we recommend hiring all your snow gear in Melbourne as you will save time when you reach your destination. Paintballing Shooting your friends with paint balls is a satisfying feeling! Spend a few hours ducking and dodging paint as you work your way through the rugged forest terrain. It stings a little when you get shot from close range, but the adrenalin rush takes care of that! It is one of the funnest activities
The Insider can advise and we highly recommend trying it. We recommend Paintball Games at Coldstream in the Yarra Valley. You can get 100 paint balls, all your gear (overalls, guns, referee etc) starting from $29.50/person for three hours. www.paintballgames.com. au
GETTING OUT OF TOWN Grampians 3.5 hours by car from Melbourne CBD One of the true treasures of the western Victoria. If you want to go camping with some friends and a bit of bush walking, you cannot go past the beautiful Grampians. With a breathtaking series of sandstone mountain ranges, the natural beauty of this place will make you never want to leave Australia. One of the reasons it is so famous is because it is home to one of the richest indigenous rock art sites in South Eastern Australia. It is a beautiful place to camp and the bush walks are some of the best in the country. We recommend going with an organised tour for your first time as the Australian bush can be a dangerous place for those that are not prepared. Phillip Island 2 hours by car from Melbourne CBD I can hear you asking yourself, “where do I go to see all the wildlife?” Answer, Phillip Island. This place is the ultimate for any international student wanting
w w w.insider.net.au
a wildlife experience that you will never forget. For example, the penguin parade, where little penguins waddle up the beach as they make their way back to their sandy home, is a highlight for Phillip Island visitors. Other treats range from seeing massive Fur Seal colonies to seeing Koalas close up. The Insider recommends going for an unforgettable stroll along Nobbies Boardwalk, which goes along this stunning coastline. Sovereign Hill (Ballarat) 1.5 hours by car from Melbourne CBD Feel like going back in time? Sovereign Hill is the closest thing you’ll find, with the whole town historically recreated to resemble the days after gold was discovered there in 1851. Learn about the Gold Rush and what it meant for Australia. Stroll down an 1850s shopping strip and pick up some strange items to take home with you while watching the staff re-enact certain historical events. The highlight is the experience of panning for real gold, and you can take it home! Great Ocean Road Starts in Geelong If you want to see some amazing beaches on a worldrenowned coastline, this drive is a must. The Great Ocean Road will take you along the coast of south-west Victoria, weaving through rainforests and cliff-side roads. Go see the world-famous Twelve Apostles and Bells Beach. Stop off at little resort towns like Lorne and Torquay, which will make
Bushwalking David Reed President of Bushwalking Victoria Bushwalking involves a range of walking experiences from a few kilometres along a track in suburbia such as the Yarra Trail or the Dandenongs to a day hike in a state or national park to a strenuous trek over a number of days carrying all your gear with you (backpacking) at somewhere like Wilsons Promontory. Bushwalking is different from simply walking for exercise because an integral part of the bushwalking experience is the appreciation of the natural environment through which you walk - the flora, scenery and unique wild life. Bushwalking can involve physical challenges such as climbing a mountain, crossing a creek or scrambling over boulders; and also mental challenges such as reading a map or navigating a course where there are no tracks. Hiking and tramping are other terms for bushwalking. Bushwalking is also a great way to get to know the “Australian bush” and visit interesting places you might otherwise not experience. Being in the bush is also a great way to unwind and get away from the pressures of daily living or intensive study. Compared to other places in the world the Australian bush is relatively safe. However there are some dangers and you need to be prepared. The best way to safely experience and learn about our wonderful natural areas is to join one of the many bushwalking clubs. There is a network of clubs across Australia including some attached to universities and other tertiary colleges. To find the clubs go to www.bushwalkingaustralia.org and click the relevant state on the home page map which will take you to the state bushwalking website. In addition to details of clubs you will find much useful information about preparation, where to go, equipment and safety. Joining a club and going with experienced people is another way to learn about places to go and it also helps you to meet like-minded Australians and form new friendships. As we say in Australia: “Why not give it a go?”
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
61
Days to Relax By Elyse Lloyd In Australia we love public holidays. Most of us spend them with friends and family, relaxing and talking. And having a barbeque, of course!
Australia Day January 26th Commemorates the arrival of the first fleet of ships from England and celebrates the nation we’ve become. There’s an awesome celebration of music from the past year on Triple J, called the Hottest 100. Relaxing with friends and listening to music is a must.
Queen’s Birthday June 14th This isn’t the Queen’s exact birthday, but it’s a great excuse for a day off and one of the best things about being in the Commonwealth. It’s probably why Australia isn’t a republic yet! The weather is still mild, so it’s good to head outside and have fun.
Anzac Day April 25th This day is a remembrance of all the soldiers who have fought for this country. While it’s a serious occasion and there are marches held all over the country that you can attend, this is also a great day to be with friends.
Melbourne Cup Day November 3rd They call it ‘the race that stops a nation’. The biggest horse racing event of the year, this is a day of fashion too. Many people will watch the race whether at home or at work and even place a small bet (gamble responsibly).
Labour Day March 8th This day celebrates Labour Unions and the rights for workers that they have achieved. Of course, most Aussies don’t know that, but they know it’s a great day for a barbeque and to go on holiday.
Good Friday & Easter Monday April 2nd - 5th
62
the surfing fans weak at the knees. This really is a magical drive, with cottages and bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) scattered along the way, making it the perfect little holiday. High Country 3 hours by car from Melbourne CBD It is true, we do recommend a few things that students cannot really afford, but we know they are amazing and worth every cent. The High Country, northeast of Melbourne is no exception. It is actually the perfect place to take your parents when they come to visit. This area is full of gourmet shops and restaurants, insanely beautiful scenery, tiny farms with freshly picked produce and the warmest hospitality you’ll ever experience. It is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. The Insider recommends the villages of Beechworth and Milawa.
CAMPING In some of the above areas, camping is allowed. However, it’s important you go prepared! Check out these stores to stock up on everything you’ll need to start enjoying the country the way nature intended.
People take advantage of the long weekend to go on holiday. If you are planning on taking a trip at this time of year, then book accommodation early! It’s also a great time to get together with friends and have some fun, as the weather is generally mild.
Anaconda Basement Level 1, 20 , Convention Centre Place, South Wharf
The other major holidays are Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, which are all from December 25th to January 1st. Many businesses are shut for the whole period, and others have different opening hours, so you’ll need to check them as the holidays arrive.
If you’re venturing into the great outdoors and need some gear to help you get by, the folks at Anaconda can help you out.
Explore
w w w.insider.net.au
cheap travel for students, backpackers and adventurers Get more bang for your buck • • • • •
Cheap flights. Round the world flights. Student fares. Adventure tours & packages. Hop-on, hop-off Aussie Tours.
• • • • •
Outback adventures. Hotels & hostels. Rail & bus tickets. Campers & car hire. ISE Student Cards.
We’re here so you can go your own way. freecall within Australia
1800 179 264
studentflights.com.au
Flight Centre Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Student Flights. Licence No. QLD TAG262, NSW 2TA002719, VIC 31089, TAS TAS031, ACT 18800224, WA 9TA589, NT 008 and SA TTA254. SFADV42931.
Present this voucher to receive
$50 off your next booking over $500*. *
*Conditions apply, See instore for details. Voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid for new bookings only until 30 June 2010. Marketing code: INSIDER.
Here’s an idea starter for you
Anaconda is the largest outdoor supplier around. It’s like a high quality Ikea of adventure products like kayaks, bikes, tents, fishing rods, climbing gear, drink bottles, clothing - the list is endless. This place also offers short-term rentals. 8695 9300 10am-9pm.
Sat-Thu: 9am-6pm; Fri:
Outback Tips Plan Make sure the roads you plan to use are OK to drive on. Sometimes after rain the roads can become impassable.
Service Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, get it serviced before leaving!
Prepare Bring enough food and at least 2 litres of water per person per day (more if you plan on doing anything strenuous).
Alert If you plan on walking difficult or lengthy tracks in a national park, make sure you inform the rangers in the park office. Let them know your intended route and estimated time of arrival.
64
Explore
Mountain Designs 373 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne With passionate, adventurous staff, this is a great place to get some quality advice before making a purchase as these guys and girls really know their stuff. Mountain designs stock only the best quality gear. If you’re going camping you will probably need a tent, sleeping bag, torch and whole range of other things. Get your questions answered and enjoy - get out there! 9670 3354 10am-9pm.
Sat-Thu: 9am-6pm; Fri:
galleries by Justin Feurring Melbourne is the creative capital of Australia and there are galleries everywhere. Some of the best have been hand-picked by locals and are shown below. For updates on current exhibitions visit: www.wemakestuffgood.com No Vacancy 34-40 Jane Bell Lane (QV Building), Melbourne. Art: No Vacancy has gained a reputation for exhibiting the highest standard of young upand-coming local and international artists and illustrators. Exhibitions: No Vacancy exhibits high-profile street artists and illustrators. Phibs, Swifty, Junior (Nior), No Comply and more recently Twoone.
696 696 Sydney Rd, Brunswick Art: 696 specialises in affordable retail art. It’s a “one stop shop” for a young art collector or enthusiast. All the art paraphanalia you need. Exhibitions: A huge range of styles, from wearable art to original oil paintings to the infamous stencil artist KIRPY. Per Square Metre 191–193 Johnston St, Collingwood Art: Per Square Metre exhibits Melbourne’s finest street artists, painters and illustrators. They create fantastic group exhibitions. Exhibitions: Artists such as Ghost Petrol, Nior, Creepy and Drew Funk. At Large Gallery 208 High St, Northcote Art: Inspired by street art and graffiti of all mediums and styles, At Large Gallery showcases Melbourne’s leading underground painters and illustrators. Exhibitions: High quality, emerging artists. Gertrude 200 Gertrude St, Fitzroy Art: Gertrude Gallery has an international reputation for exhibiting contemporary conceptual art, ranging from digital installations to minimalist abstract paintings.
w w w.insider.net.au
MK0660
SEE AUSTRALIA’S BEST AT DISCOUNTED RATES. 1300 13 13 90 or europcar.com.au
• Discounted rates for The Insider readers • Discounted damage liability for The Insider readers • 133 locations across Australia • Latest model vehicles • 24 hour roadside assistance
For your exclusive The Insider discounts, simply quote promotional code 50383341 when making your booking. *Terms and conditions apply. Please note that for drivers under 25 years of age, a driver underage surcharge applies.
Gertrude is also famous for all the practising artists working in the upstairs studios. Exhibitions: Predominantly conceptual-based shows. Famous When Dead 207 Victoria St, West Melbourne Art: Famous When Dead has a strong focus on urban and street art by local and international artists. They merit street art as a global phenomenon and as a new art movement. Here you’ll find aerosol-based stencils, freehand graffiti art, paste-ups, sticker art, illustration, installation, sculpture and performance works. Exhibitions: Heavily involved with the Melbourne Stencil Festival, Famous When Dead prides itself on exhibiting the world’s finest stencil artists. Exhibitions such as (YourKidCantDoThis), 2009 International Stencil Exhibition.
Local Sites Carlton Brewery Tours Corner Nelson & Thompson St, Abbotsford Isn’t it strange that Fosters is meant to be the famous Australian beer but you don’t see it around much in Australia? Nevertheless, the company is one of the world’s best brewers and make a range of beers in Australia. We highly recommend checking out this brewery, and learn about the fascinating process of how they filter and ferment the range of different beers. You can then see one of the country’s fastest
66
Explore
bottle plants, where around 1.5 million bottles are processed a day! Oh and how can we forget that you get to taste the beers at the end of the tour! Tours run at 10am and 2pm and you need to book ahead. 9420 6800
Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm.
Old Melbourne Gaol 377 Russell Street A place that will surely send shivers down the backs of even the thickest skinned individuals, this is an experience you will remember for life. Walk through the halls that housed some of the most notorious criminals Australia has ever seen, including the famous bush ranger Ned Kelly, where he was eventually hung. Hear the frightening yet fascinating tales of the prisoners lives and life within the gaol. This tour is one we highly recommended. 8663 7228
Daily: 9:30am-5pm.
Luna Park 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda Ok, even though this place is packed full of families on weekends, you still need to go to Melbourne’s Luna Park at least once during your stay. It is one big amusement park that caters to everyone from those just wanting to play a few side show games to those searching for ultimate thrills (the scariest rides are Pharaoh’s Curse, Metropolis and the Enterprise). It is a great way to spend a day, or even take your guy/girl on that first date (nothing breaks the nerves like sharing a super fast roller
coaster ride together!). Tickets cost about $40 and get you unlimited rides for the day. 9525 5033 Fri: 7pm-11pm; Sat: 11am-11pm; Sun: 11am-6pm.
Melbourne Aquarium Corner of King St & Flinders Street, Melbourne Where is the only place in Australia you can see Antarctic penguins? It just happens to be right here in Melbourne at The Melbourne Aquarium, in the Antarctica Exhibit. But the whole aquarium is amazing, and as you stroll through the interactive displays and gaze at the weird and wonderful world of the ocean, you can’t help but feel insignificant knowing we share the Earth with such diverse creatures and we are just one of them. International tour guides are available, so if your English is not good, be sure to call ahead and make a group booking. 9923 5999
Daily: 9:30am-6pm.
Australian Centre for Contemporary Art 111 Sturt St, Southbank Located in the centre of the Southbank art district, it’s unique steel architecture is hard to miss. The ACCA is known for commissioning works from some of the world’s best living artists. Got an mp3 player? Check out their website to download some mp3s to help you make the most of the exhibitions. Alternatively you can ask at reception about borrowing one. For more information,
w w w.insider.net.au
as well as details about current and future exhibitions, visit www.accaonline.org.au. 9697 9999 Tue-Fri: 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun: 11am-6pm.
The Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square, Flinders Street, Melbourne The ACMI in Fed Square covers film, television, games and more making it a must-see Melbourne destination for anyone who surrounds themselves with today’s media. Take a glimpse at the history of cinema, browse through the modern galleries and discover the future of digital art. The ACMI also runs workshops and often has live events, see the website for details: www.acmi.net.au. 8663 2200
Daily: 10am-6pm.
Chinese Museum 22 Cohen Pl, Melbourne Full of history, take a walk through the past at the Chinese Museum. The museum is located in an old theatre prop warehouse in Chinatown and is one of the oldest continuous Chinese settlements in the Western World. The museum features artifacts from the gold rush, exhibits about early Chinese settlers and also the world’s longest Chinese dragon! 9662 2888
Daily: 10am-5pm.
National Gallery Victoria Federation Square One of the nation’s best art galleries, the National Gallery of Victoria showcases pieces from all over the world within its
permanent collection (which is free to the public) and within its many exhibitions (which usually costs a small fee). One we recommend is the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces Exhibition that will be launched in June and will display some world class pieces. The program for 2010 is packed with a range of different exhibitions from Asia, Europe and everywhere in between. The NGV also gives international students the chance to see some of the most famous indigenous artworks in the country. 8620 2222 Monday: Closed; Tue-Sun: 10am-5pm.
Museum Victoria Museum Victoria oversees the state’s cultural and scientific collections: Melbourne Museum Nicholson St, Carlton As well as housing 16 million items, the museum often has interesting exhibitions like the current showcase of iconic Melbourne shoes (ends 30 Sept 2010). The Immigration Museum 400 Flinders St, Melbourne The Immigration Museum offers a fascinating insight into Melbourne’s multicultural origins. Scienceworks 2 Booker St, Spotswood Scienceworks is an interactive science and technology museum. It features a planetarium and a lightning room with regular shows.
TOP5.
RADIO STATIONS 1.
Triple J 107.5 FM
Triple J is Australia’s leading youth radio station. It has a great selection new Australian music and best of all, no ads! Check out the Hottest 100 on Australia Day (Jan 26)
2.
KissFM 87.6FM
Showcasing some of Australia’s best DJs, Kiss FM is all about dance music. Not getting a signal? Check the website to find the frequency for your area: kissfm.com.
au
3.
Fox
101.9FM
Fox is Melbourne’s top 40 hit music station. If it’s mainstream, it’s here. Remember this is a commercial station so expect advertisements!
4.
Nova
100.3FM
Similar to Fox in terms of music, but slightly less ads and more of a focus on new music.
5.
TripleM 105.1FM
Known for playing classic rock ballads, Triple M refuses to leave the 80s & 90s behind.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
67
Plan A: Don’t get burnt!
By: Elyse Lloyd
4
The sun is fun, but take regular breaks in the shade.
5
Australia is a hot country with a million great things to do outdoors. Getting sunburnt is not one of them! Here’s how to avoid sunburn:
1
Wear sunscreen Look at the label for the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating. SPF 30+ is the minimum rating you should go for. If you possibly can, then get SPF 40+, or even 60+, which is supposed to protect from all types of ultra-violet light (also known as UV Rays).
2
3
Wear lightcoloured clothing Make sure to cover your arms and legs. No one wants to look like a cricketer, unless they’re actually playing cricket of course, but the idea behind this is simple. Light colours reflect the sun’s rays and the more you cover up, the less skin that is exposed to burning.
Wear sunglasses Apart from just being way more comfortable in the sun, it is good for your eyes to not be exposed to the sun all day long.
Plan B: Ok...so
you got burnt, now what? 1
Take a cold shower Not too cold, but a quick shower can really help. Just like any other burn, sunburn can be treated with running water.
Wear a hat Trying to sleep with burnt shoulders and neck is not a pleasant experience. The more of your face and neck you can cover, the better.
Seek shade
2
Aloe Vera Gel Banana Boat is one company that produces the gel and it’s available from pharmacies and some supermarkets. Apply it as often as you need to.
3
Ice packs Ice packs can be used to cool the burn as well, after the area has been cooled by something else. If something too cold goes straight on to the burn, the contact could cause the skin to peel away when you remove it! Always wrap ice packs in a towel for the same reason.
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
Street Art
Jeremy Gaschk & Krystal Schultheiss
The street art scene is exploding in Melbourne. The side streets and alleys are virtually outdoor galleries, painted and awaiting your discovery. It can be hard to know where to go to find the treasures, use this as a guide and start exploring! There are also great street art tours run by the artists themselves, a crew called
wemakestuffgood.com Fitzroy & Collingwood The side streets off Brunswick & Smith Streets. Fitzroy is where Melbourne’s street art culture started, go on an adventure and immerse yourself in the culture of these colourful streets and alleyways. The home of Everfresh Studios, a collective of some of Australia’s best graffiti artists. A must see is the Everfresh mural on the side of the Night Cat Bar on Johnston St.
70
Explore
City The city’s laneways are a celebration of the city’s culture. Many of the alleyways have been commissioned and showcase some amazing work. Croft Alley Off Little Bourke St, in between Russell & Exhibition Street In September 2009 ‘Don’t Ban the Can’ held an event that brought together over 50 artists from around Australia to paint the alleyway. This alleyway is one of Melbourne’s feature attractions, Google search ‘Don’t Ban the Can, Croft Ally Project’ to see why. Artists: TFC, ID, TSF, SDM, C2F, RDC, CKA, GMO, Everfresh, AWOL, KOC, KSA. Union Lane Off Bourke Street Mall next to The Walk Arcade. These pieces depict the Melbourne shopping culture and community. As time has progressed the walls have mostly
been filled up by tags and are not respected by the art community. Artists: Everfresh, Blender Studios and more. Caledonian Lane Off Lonsdale Street between Swanston and Elizabeth Street. Previous home of Melbourne’s famous St Jeromes Bar. The alleyway was originally curated by artist Monkey and Koan who still actively paint today. The wall is ever-changing and is a well known space to see street art in Melbourne. Artists: Everfresh, AWOL, Alpha and many more. Blender Studio Alleyway Off Franklin Street between Queen and Elizabeth Streets One of Melbourne’s oldest urban & street art studios is here. The Alleyway is located on the side of the studio and has been featured in numerous media and TV shows. Artists: Ha Ha, Drewfunk, Tom Civil, Braddock, Nielio, and Mitten Fortress. Little LaTrobe Street Between Swanston Street and Elizabeth Street Why it’s worth seeing: Here you will find old-school styled works by artists who helped push the street art and graffiti movement to where it is today. Artists: Everfresh, CKA, DMA, C2f, SDM, and F1.
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Drewe Clarke Artist: Debs www.wemakestuffgood.com.au
Beaches When you were sitting at home deciding if Australia was the right country to study in, I bet one of the things that pushed you towards Australia was our golden sands and crystal waters that make our beaches some of the best in the world. The beach is a big part of Australian culture. Sitting in the sun with your mates before slipping into the ocean to cool off on a warm day is one of the most Australian experiences you can have. You might just want to sit back, read a book and soak in some sun. Alternatively, you might be a little more adventurous looking to catch some waves on your surfboard. Whatever you want to do, there is a beach somewhere near Melbourne waiting for you. These listings will give you a bit of an idea of which beach is worth checking out.
Photo: Christian Haugen
St Kilda Beach St Kilda is just a short tram ride from the city. Situated on Port Phillip bay, both the St Kilda beach and the Esplanade have a lot to offer beach goers. You can head out onto the sand for a few hours, go for a swim and after have some dinner at one of the beach-side cafés. You might even be lucky enough to find some live music at one of the several popular venues in this area.
beach a relaxed, laid-back feel; perfect for a picnic on a sunny afternoon.
Although this may not be the most secluded beach, it is close to the CBD and offers many activities for those who are more interested in shopping and dining instead of surfing and swimming.
Middle Park Middle Park is a friendly little area outside Melbourne and is regarded by many Melburnians as a refreshing getaway from the city. There are some great areas around here for windsurfing and other water sports. There is also an array of nearby beachside cafés and kiosks if you forget to pack some lunch.
Brighton Beach Brighton is an upmarket coastal suburb known commonly for its colourfully painted little beach huts. Brighton beach is very exclusive in comparison to St Kilda. If you’re looking to get away from the sounds of passing cars and trucks without travelling too far from the city, this is a good place to check out. The privacy gives the
If you’re wanting to stick around for a snack or a couple of beers, Bay Street is just a five-minute walk away with some nice cafés and restaurants. If you’re looking to get here from the CBD, Flinders Street station will get you there in about 20 minutes on the Sandringham line.
Hampton Beach Hampton Beach is a popular spot for young people. There is a great bike path to go for a ride or an afternoon walk with some friends. There is also a number of stunning beachfront places to stay if you are looking to get out of town for a couple of days. If your are lucky
enough to do so, you can experience the number of nice restaurants, boutique stores and cafés. Elwood Beach Not the beach for ultimate relaxation - this is a very sport-orientated destination and home to many of the Melburnian triathlon events. Elwood Beach also has tennis courts, playgrounds and a fishing club. There are also public BBQ facilities. Bells Beach, Torquay Probably the most famous beach in the country, Bells Beach is known for its long rolling waves and the big surfing events. The town of Torquay is widely considered the home of Aussie surf culture, with some of the largest global surf brands growing from their bases in this town. While the beach is just amazing and you should definitely give it a visit, you should be aware that it isn’t a good beach for beginners to go surfing as the waves can get really big.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
73
Safety tips 1. Swim between the flags At most popular beaches you will see surf lifesavers who have worked out the safest part of the beach to swim. They communicate this by putting up big flags on the beach. Swim in between them! This will ensure you don’t put yourself at risk by swimming in dangerous areas. Also, if you do struggle in the water, you have a much better chance of being seen by the rescuers if you are swimming in the area that they are patrolling.
2. Don’t fight the rip or current If you get pulled out to sea by the rip, do not try and fight it. It will just make you tired and you will really struggle. The smartest thing to do is to let yourself get pulled out to sea, then when the rip dies down, swim to the side and swim back into shore.
3. Swim with friends Make sure you swim while your friends watch you. If you struggle, they can help you out or find someone nearby that can help you!
4. Don’t eat immediately before you swim Wait at least half an hour before you go for a swim if you have just had a meal. You could get cramps and this could make swimming very difficult. If you want more information regarding safety on the beaches, check out www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au. Also, many popular beaches have surf life saving offices present, with life savers patrolling the beaches at busy times.
74
Explore
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Steve Weaver
Events
Whether it’s a one-off show or a three-day festival, experiencing live entertainment is a great activity to share with mates. It is also a unique opportunity to experience the fantastic live music culture that Melbourne is famous for. Melbourne offers everything from car racing to Grand Slams to arts festivals. There‘s always something for someone. The following listings are a collection of the events that are coming up over the next year. Keep your ear to the ground, talk to people and read local press magazines to stay up to date with what’s going on near you.
Music Festivals St Kilda Festival St Kilda The perfect mix - beaches, local talent and free entertainment. A Melburnian favourite for almost 30 years, the festival brings Melbourne’s the public,
young and old, to see some of Australia’s hottest artists, musicians and comedians. And the best part, it’s free! If you start getting a bit warm after all the dancing, you can cool down with a swim too! Early Feb 2011
Apollo Bay Music Festival Apollo Bay Covering everything from rock, theatre, comedy, jazz, hip hop, blues, country and world music, the Apollo Bay Music Festival is really just worth going to because you get to visit one of the most beautiful places in Australia, the magnificent Otway Ranges along the famous Great Ocean Road. When this festival gets going, talented buskers line the streets in this stunning beach-side town, which just helps create an awesome vibe. 26 – 28 March 2010
76 w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Marcus Ă–sterberg
Falls Festival Lorne (and Tasmania)
Meredith Music Festival Meredith
One of the most popular festivals in Australia, you have to be quite lucky to get a ticket to this one. Situated on a farm in the middle of a rainforest in the stunning beach-side town of Lorne, patrons have to camp on-site, meaning the festival vibe doesn’t stop when the acts stop playing. This festival always manages to attract big name acts like Moby, De La Soul, Franz Ferdinand, Kings of Leon and the Dandy Warhols just to name a few. Camping with your friends and making friends with strangers is a massive selling point for this festival, as it always delivers a good time for festival lovers.
This three-day festival in country Victoria used to be a little one for around 200 people, but has now grown to be one of the most well known festivals Australia-wide and one of the hottest tickets for festival lovers. Unlike other big festivals, this one offers patrons the chance to go completely wild and dance the night away and also relax in peace and quiet. Often regarded as the festival with the best set-up in Australia, the natural amphitheatre makes this festival one of the most spectacular places to catch your favourite bands and enjoy the company of friends.
Johnston Street Hispanic Fiesta Fitzroy There is nothing better than letting your hair down, grabbing a cool drink and a Spanish donut and heading down to Johnson Street in Fitzroy for some dancing on the street. The street is closed to traffic and the Latin American music takes over. Did we mention its free entrance? Food and drink are available on-site. Mid-November 2010
St Jeromes Laneway Festival Footscray Community Arts Centre
The king of city festivals, the Big Day Out is now regarded internationally as one of the biggest festival tours in the world. Always bringing the best bands in the world as well as a huge range of awesome local and international acts, this is one that costs a fair bit, but is totally worth it. With a range of big and small stages in place and plenty of places to cool down in the hot summer sun, this is one day that the youth of Melbourne look forward to every year.
For the little hippie inside all of us, Rainbow Serpent is the premier alternative lifestyle, music and arts festival. Throw on your bell-bottom jeans, tie a rainbow ribbon in your hair and experience a festival that attracts an audience from all around the world. Showcasing world class performers from a range of different genres, the only thing they have in common is that they will definitely make you dance! So come on down and come and join a smiling community for chai-sipping, moon-dancing fun.
In 2004, a couple of guys in Melbourne thought that the Melbourne live music scene needed a bit of a shake up. They organised for some great bands to perform in an alleyway behind St Jeromes Bar. It proved to be hugely popular and started a cult following of this uniquely intimate festival. The philosophy of this event (to showcase a range bands in unique settings) has proven to be contagious, with a few different cities now having their own St Jeromes Laneway Festival. However, the Melbourne one remains the best and is truly worth checking out for the world-class acts and awesome local bands in an incredible setting.
Late January 2011
Late January 2011
Late January 2011
29 Dec 2010 - 1 January 2011
Big Day Out CBD
78
Events
Mid-December 2010
Rainbow Serpent Beaufort
w w w.insider.net.au
ARTS FESTIVALS Melbourne International Arts Festival No study trip to Melbourne is complete without checking out the most pre-eminent arts event in Australia, the Melbourne International Arts Festival. It is a feast of dance, music, theatre, visual art and multimedia, and offers many free events. October 2010
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Experience a month of nonstop laughter with this uniquely Melbourne festival. Attracting world-class comedy acts, the Melbourne International Comedy Festivals will have you roaring for more. Discover the city’s hidden pubs and bars with some of the festival’s lesser known acts, many of which are free or cheap! 24 March – 18 April 2010
WINE FESTIVALS Melbourne Food And Wine Festival All Around Melbourne This is the big one. The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is one of the largest events of its kind in the world. Make sure you book a seat early for ‘The World’s Longest Lunch’, and be sure to attend the celebrity chef master classes! 12-23 March 2010
The Age Harvest Picnic at Hanging Rock Hanging Rock, Woodend What better excuse to head west than to go to The Age Harvest Picnic at Hanging Rock? Over 100 small food and wine producers gather at the base of this magical place to sample and sell their fine selection of cheeses, meats, preserves, breads, edibles and ice creams. 28 Feb 2010
Sporting events The Melbourne Cup Carnival Flemington Racecourse This is the horse race that stops the nation. The Melbourne Cup race is world famous and takes place as part of the annual Melbourne Cup Racing Carnival. People from all around the country turn on their televisions in the early afternoon to watch. That is, of course, if they can’t be at Flemington to watch it in person! Over 730 000 people went to this carnival last year and we recommend being a part of this memorable, stunning event. Remember to dress up for this one! Tickets on sale early 2010
AFL Grand Final Day MCG A big day for Australians, this is a day when two teams in the AFL battle it out to become the season premiers. It is a game filled with passion, sweat and always tears and joy after the final siren.
26th September 2010
3 Mobile Boxing Day Test MCG A sports highlight for all Victorians, Australia challenges a touring team to a five-day cricket test match on Boxing Day (26th Dec) at the MCG. There are other test matches at the MCG in the summer, but this is the most exciting to watch and the weather is usually awesome for it. Going to a cricket game in Australia and actually seeing Australia play is one of the best experiences a cricket fan will have. 26th December 2010
Australian Open Tennis Championships Melbourne Park The Australian Open is rated by many sports fans as one of the world’s most anticipated sporting events, attracting the biggest names of tennis. With the French and US Open and Wimbledon, it completes international tennis’ ‘Grand Slam’. A top event for any tennis follower. January 2011
The Australian Grand Prix Albert Park If you are a car fan, you probably already know this event exists and how awesome it is. Every March, thousands pour into Albert Park and watch the world’s best drivers compete on what is regarded as a top circuit for Formula One racing. 25th-28th March 2010
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
79
Festival Tips Music festivals are a great way to check out your favourite bands and get to know new bands. There is nothing better than enjoying a few days with your friends out of town and listening to great music. Most sell out quickly, so decide whether to go before the tickets go on sale. Some sell out within a day, e.g. Splendour in the Grass and Falls Festival. Others sell within a couple of weeks, e.g. Big Day Out and Future Music.
1 Remember yourtickets!
Leaveyour 3 valuablesat home Festivals attract some dodgy characters, leave anything non-essential at home. If you must bring valuable items take steps to secure them.
4
Apply some SPF30+ sun cream every couple of hours.
5
But remember to take the essentials: torch, toilet paper, duct tape, string, tissues, tent, medical kit, plastic bags, padlocks for your tent, etc.
Wear comfortable clothes Comfortable shoes are a must and remember to bring warm clothes.
The most annoying thing you can forget after hitting the road.
2 Packlight
Wear sunscreen
6
Bringenough cash Check the tickets to see what you can take. You’ll probably have to buy overpriced food and water. Most festivals have ATM facilities but expect to line up.
7
Highenergy food If you’re allowed to bring food, make it high energy and nutritious. Avoid taking foods that need to be kept cold.
8
9
Zipup Put your phone and wallet in zipped pockets to protect against theft and moshing (jumping around near the front of the stage).
Wear a sensiblehat Big hats may look fun, but they’re annoying in crowds and get old quickly when you’re forced to carry it around all night.
10 Takebreaks Have time out & seek shade. Drink plenty of water
aplace 11 Find tomeet Plan a place to meet up with friends. Chances are you won’t have phone reception.
it 12 Keep together Don’t get so off your face that you don’t know what’s going on. Know your limits.
13 Playnice
Help others out, be nice and remember that your fellow campers might enjoy sleeping.
Findhigher
14 ground
If you’re camping, find a spot on a hill. You’ll appreciate it when it starts raining.
Useful Info
We know it’s hard to settle in to a new city. When you first arrive, everything is new and every little task is difficult. We’re here to help! Past and present international and local students have helped us assemble this section for you, the student in need of a helping hand. Here you will find pointers on finding a job, finding a car, study help and more. If you would like to get more involved in extra curricular activities and meet some people, we recommend heading to your student office or student union at your institution. It is their job to make sure your experience here is enjoyable and memorable.
STUDY TIPS You know study is important, that’s why you’re paying so much to be here! So we thought we would give you a bit of help with handling all the stress. Make a schedule It is important to allocate your time. It will immediately calm you down and you will feel more in control of your workload. Relax Only study when you are relaxed, alert and ready to work. Last minute study is not really effective. Review Review your lecture notes. Many students don’t bother doing this but you will be thankful when exam time comes.
82 w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
Help! Don’t be shy asking for help from other students, including local students. The teachers understand that you may not be as good at English as the local students, so talk to them about your study problems and they will help you! Location, location, location Choose a good place to study! As comfortable as it may be pumping the speakers and having the TV on while you study, it isn’t a good idea. You will get a lot more work done in a shorter amount of time if you work privately, in a quiet area.
Banking in Australia Opening a bank account Unless you plan to store your money in your mattress, you might want to get yourself an Australian bank account. Dealing with the banks is rarely a straightforward process, so we’ve put together some tips for you. Choosing a bank There are a number of banks to choose from in Australia, and we recommend doing your research online before choosing a bank. NAB, Commonwealth Bank and Westpac have quite comprehensive international student sections on their websites. When comparing the banks, make sure you take note of the fees on the account. Fees and charges are all too common with Australian bank accounts,
84
Useful Info
so it is wise to understand what you will be charged for and when. Once you’ve selected one, it’s time to visit the bank. Some banks require you make an appointment, but if you avoid the lunch time rush you should be able to get it done on the spot.
What to bring:
Drivers license (If you have one)
Passport/ visa Proof of address A bill that has been sent to your house is usually good enough.
ATMs (Also known as cashpoint, cash machine or ‘hole-inthe-wall’) Always try to use the ATM that belongs to your bank as there will likely be no charge. If you can’t get to your bank’s ATM, use one from another bank (this charge is usually about $2 per transaction). Avoid using the smaller machines you find in bars, clubs and petrol stations. Some of these will make you pay a lot for the convenience.
Credit cards Before getting a credit card, take a look at ‘debit’ cards. These enable you to use VISA or Mastercard services (like online shopping), but it uses the money in your account not credit. If you decide you need a credit card make sure you do your research and ask about fees. Eftpos Eftpos is a way to use your bank card to buy products and services without using cash. All you need to do is swipe your bank card and enter your PIN. You might be asked if you want “cash out”- this is just a convenient way to withdraw money from your account without going to an ATM. Transferring money overseas If you’re heading home and you’ve still got money in your account, you obviously haven’t been making the most of your time! Check out the rest of this guidebook for helpful tips about where to spend your money. If you must take it with you, head into your local bank branch with the details of your overseas account. They will ask for: Bank account name and account number The overseas bank ‘sort’ code International Bank Account Number (IBAN) (Europe only) SWIFT code of the overseas bank
w w w.insider.net.au
You may need to contact your overseas bank, but usually the above information can be found on their website. Transferring money to Australia Need a top up from a relative back home? Here’s the information you’ll need to give them: Australian bank account name Australian bank account number and BSB Address of the bank your account is with Australian bank SWIFT Code Currency conversion Travelex outlets are basically a one stop shop for currency conversion. These outlets can be found in a number of locations. These include airports, major travel agents and tourist areas. Most banks also offer conversion facilities.
Weblinks Department of Immigration www.immi.gov.au Australian Tax Office www.ato.gov.au Workplace Authority www.workplaceauthority.gov.au Online Job Sites www.mycareer.com.au www.seek.com.au www.careerone.com.au
Looking for Work Florence Wong Working while studying has many great benefits, not only in terms of earning a bit more spending money, but is a great way to make new friends outside university and gain work experience and skills in Australia. As an international student, the first thing to check is whether you have working rights before starting your search for a job. Usually, you will be permitted to work for 20 hours during term time, and unlimited hours when your course is not in session (such as over semester breaks, or, if you are a postgraduate research student, after you have handed in your thesis). However, you should check your documentation to make sure. Additionally, before you start looking for work, you will also need to apply for a Tax File Number, a straightforward process through the Australian Tax Office. Once you’ve got that out of the way, prepare a good resume and start looking! Good sources of work include job notice boards at your university, or through online job sites (see left). Local newspapers are also a good source for casual and part-time jobs in the area where you live (particularly important if you need to rely on public transport). Many larger organisations, such as supermarkets or department stores recruit through their websites, so it’s also worth going there to have a look. Smaller shops and cafes will sometimes post vacancies on their windows, so keep your eye out when you’re wandering around. If there’s a particular place that you’d like to work, don’t be afraid to walk in and talk to the manager or hand over your resume. Even if they don’t have an opening then, they can keep you in mind when they are looking to hire.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
85
IfOnly... Danny O of inte ng discusse rnation s al stud the TOP 2 R ents af ter gra egrets duatio n... Photo: City of Melbourne
All students have goals when they start their overseas education. However, it is relatively easy for international students to lose sight of their goals because either they are struggling to adapt to the Australian environment or their lives have become a routine. Therefore, many graduates (including myself) have many regrets because we cannot achieve these initial goals – and it is often too late for us to realise and make any efforts to rectify these regrets. Hopefully, this article will give new students a head start in achieving their goals and a positive student experience in Australia.
Article by: Danny Ong Author of ‘The International Student Handbook’
86
Useful Info
Many international students aim for excellent grades because they believe that this will guarantee future employment. However, this is not true. As indicated by the CEO of a multinational company:
“I did not know anything about 1. Australia.” “A degree is just a hygiene factor – it will help you to apply for the job but your experience and personality are the most important factors that will help you to secure it” During the first year of my Australian education, I was aiming for excellent grades. Although, I did manage to achieve an
average of 80 marks as a result of my intensive studies, I did not have the opportunity to explore Melbourne and learn more about the local culture. When I applied for a job at Hewlett Packard (HP) in Singapore during my semester break, I was asked a simple question: “Danny, since you have studied in Australia for a year, could you please describe your Australian experience?” Frankly speaking, I could not answer the question – because I did not put in any effort to do so in the first place! Luckily, with the help of my quick wits, I managed to come up with some answer and I managed to secure the position. Later, my supervisor told me that she decided to hire me because I was able to survive overseas and learn about the country’s culture (which she felt
w w w.insider.net.au
were two essential traits of a good employee). Therefore, after returning to Australia, I decided to better engage with the Australian community and learn more about the local culture – and I believe that this knowledge is a critical element of my current success. Many companies and professional bodies do concur with my above experience – good grades do not equate to future employment. Look at it this way - if you are studying accounting, a balance sheet will always have assets and liabilities, regardless which university or country you are studying in. This can be applied to any degree – science, engineering and IT. Therefore the only difference is your on- and off-campus experience. Based on your experiences, you will able to better address any relevant theories and allow more suitable applications in your future employment. Remember companies are looking for people who can apply theories, not people who can recite/ memorise them. This is also why international students are more highly sought after in their home countries (as compared to students who studied in local universities) because they offer an international dimension based on their overseas experiences; not just because they have an overseas degree. Some international students may have the expectations of meeting and befriending Australians and students from other countries. They believe that this will expand their networks,
which will assist them in future endeavours. However, many international students, including myself, try to look for other students from their own home countries.
“I did not make friends with any 2. locals.” For example, most of my friends are either from Singapore and Malaysia. This is human nature as we seek to find familiarity in a foreign environment. However, students often become fixated within their comfort zones and refused to take the initial step of making friends with local students (or students from other countries). They only recognise this when it is too late – they have already graduated from their courses. Fortunately, I have local friends whom I met during my volunteer days as the international student representative. Having a common goal and passion (i.e. helping students within the university) does facilitate the development of new friendships. I vividly remember the days we spent debating about student policies and making suggestions to the University for enhancing the student experience. However, surprisingly, most of my local friends are from my workplace. When I was working part-time at Officeworks during my degree, I had the opportunity to meet locals from all walks of life and
engaging with my local colleagues. Although some of them used to be international students (now they are permanent residents), they offered me various insights to Australia and its unique culture. Making friends is like clapping your hands – it takes two hands to clap. Some international students feel that they have nothing to contribute in a discussion and sometimes feel inferior to their local counterparts. However, they forget that some Australian students may not have the opportunity to travel overseas in the first place – thus international students can enlighten them about their own culture and the beauty of their countries. Remember, you will never know who you can befriend, if you don’t take the first step! My book, titled “The International Student’s Handbook – Living and Studying in Australia”, addresses many of these issues that an international student may face during their education. Personally, I think the book is a “cheat guide” for international students to have a head start and address many potential problems that everyone may face during their Australian education. Using this book, you can make informed decisions to achieve the necessary experiences and graduate attributes to realise your goals. The book is available at most university bookstores. Alternatively, you can find more information or buy the book at the following website: w w w.u n s w pre s s .c om .au / isbn/9781921410758.htm
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
87
Medial Advice By Dr Maggie Phillips GP at Globe Medical Diet & Nutrition Your diet can change dramatically when you arrive in a new country. Familiar foods are not so easy to find and you may be living away from home for the first time. The big mistake many students make is to cave in and eat often at familiar fast food outlets or food courts. This will result in obesity, constipation and tears. (You may think you are saving time by grabbing a take away the night before an exam, but the medical deferrals for gastro tell us otherwise). Simple cooking is not rocket science. The Adelaide Central Markets have a world class array of meat, fish, fruit and vegetables. A healthy stir fry of lean meat and colourful veggies takes ten minutes to prepare. EAT A HEALTHY BREAKFAST... you DO have time. If not, you have twice the chance of getting fat. Are you unable to cope with muesli, nuts and grains? Then at least get fibre supplement capsules from the supermarket. Climate Australia has extremely dry air and harsh (mineralised) water. People from East and South East Asia often get dermatitis when they come here. Do not over wash, once a day is plenty and avoid really hot water. Use gentle, “soap-free” wash prod-
88
Useful Info
ucts... available from chemists for those with sensitive skin. Use lots of moisturiser such as Sorbolene after your shower. Australians know about the dangers of our strong sunshine. An episode of severe sun burn is not easily forgotten. On the other hand, some daily sunshine and outdoor light is essential for both physical (Vitamin D) and mental health. The trick is to get our daily dose of twenty minutes (35 in winter) before 9.30 am or after 5.30pm in summer. If you are out in the more dangerous part of the day in summer, cover up, wear a hat and good sun block, seek out the shade and keep up your fluids. Sex Away from home, new rules, new experiences, new friends... sex happens. Don’t let it be a disaster. It is a common myth that you’d have to be unlucky to get pregnant from one off unprotected sex. It’s easy. Our public hospitals are being inundated with requests for pregnancy terminations by international students. There really isn’t any excuse to not get educated about avoiding unwanted pregnancy. Termination is by no means instant, as may be the case in some countries. Condoms will protect against unwanted pregnancy as well as serious sexually transmitted infections. They are easy to buy at the supermarket. If you didn’t use one you can ask the chemist to help you with emergency contraception
(Postinor 1) within 72 hours. To be informed about sexually transmitted infections go to www.stdservices.on.net Be Active People who are moderately fit have more energy than couch potatoes. They achieve more in their day, sleep better and can focus and study more effectively. There is an enormous amount of evidence that exercise prevents many chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. In the short term, it simply makes you feel better about yourself and, paradoxically, less tired. You do not need to join an expensive gym to be moderately fit. Take the stairs, walk more and take up a social sport with friends. Mental Health It is really easy to become bewildered in a strange country away from friends and family and trying to study in your second language. On top of this you may be having problems with your accommodation or finances. Give yourself a break. Don’t let it overwhelm you. Take small steps and pay attention to the physical health aspects discussed above. Try to make new local as well as international friends. Speak to others in your tutorial groups, or maybe get a part time job. Join a club if you have any special interests. Have a mental break from study. If none of this is working for you and you feel yourself sliding into a sea of hopelessness...TELL SOMEONE.
w w w.insider.net.au
www.sevenseasworldwide.com/theinsider The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
89
Couch Surfer became an obstacle whenever I wanted to approach them. Besides, I couldn’t understand the lectures well in the first semester at university, which reduced my confidence in communicating with local classmates. Article by: Dan Wei International Student I was a high school graduate when I first came to Australia to study. Like most international students, I felt unfamiliar with the new environment. I was shy and didn’t know how to socialise with people. The main problems were that I was different from Aussies and my English was not good. It could make people tease me and it really
90
Useful Info
However, my attitude changed significantly after I became a ‘couch surfer’. One of my Australian housemates introduced me to this amazing networking site called Couch Surfing, which enables travellers to stay with locals rather than in hotels. We hosted some travellers from all over the world. Then when I travelled alone in Australia, I started using it, which gave me the opportunity to meet many inspiring and interesting people
who broadened my horizons. The idea of couch surfing is to swap different cultures and experiences, thus, when I talked with these people I found they were interested in talking and listening to me no matter how bad I thought my English was. It was this experience that built my confidence, cultivated my social skills, and encouraged me to communicate and make friends with different people. The couch surfing experience has given me the idea that what matters most is who you are instead of your language skills. Later on, I found making friends became much easier. People meet unintentionally in the library, through attending various activities during Orien-
w w w.insider.net.au
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market
tation, uni clubs and sometimes classmates turn out to be friends after learning more about each other. Facebook is another very good way to connect people and let you know the new things going on with your friends. English is a problem most Asian students are afraid of when they initially come to Australia. However, once it improves, life in this foreign country becomes easier and learning English can be fun as well. Intensive English
courses, making friends with native English speakers, living in English-speaking accommodation and reading are the ways I find helpful with my English. My English teacher became my friend after teaching me for 3 months. We have kept in contact since then and this is definitely a good resource for an overseas student’s future stay in Australia.
It was this “experience
that built my confidence, cultivated my social skills
�
For some international student s who are seeking local friends, I would like to say feel free to
join any uni activities that interest you and talk with people whenever you want to. Making friends with foreigners who are interested in your language or cultural background through language and cultural exchange programs could be a good kickoff. Overall, I believe studying abroad is not only a good opportunity to acquire knowledge, but also to have fun, make friends and improve your social skills, which are very important as well. As an international student, remember that your uniqueness is an advantage and keep confident even under difficulties. I wish all international students an enjoyable and rewarding overseas experience.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
91
www. www.domain.com.au www.realestate.com.au
92
Useful Info
w w w.insider.net.au
Finding a House Finding a place to live in Melbourne can be a long and scary process. You want to find somewhere quickly but you don’t want to choose a place that is going to cause you problems. Most problems arise between international students and their landlords because the students have not paid enough attention to the contract they have entered into. Some landlords will try and take advantage of you! You must be careful and know what your rights are. It will help to download the ‘Renting a Home - a Guide for Tenants and Landlords’ from the Consumer Affairs Resource Centre website: www.consumer.vic.gov.au. Here are a few tips that will help you stay out of trouble:
Read the fine print Make sure you know if you have entered under a fixed term or a periodic tenancy. If you sign an agreement, you should receive a copy straight away. Make sure you keep this in a safe place so you can refer to it if a problem arises.
Bond, house bond. A bond payment is usually requested by landlords. If you are renting for $350 or less a week, the bond cannot be more than one months rent.
Rent in advance A landlord can ask for 2 weeks rent in advance at the start of your tenancy, but no more.
Do your own inspection Make sure you write down any pre-existing problems when you first receive your inspection sheet. This will help when you have to dispute any repairs with the landlord at the end of your stay.
Water usage Make sure you agree with your landlord about water use. How much are you responsible for? You need to know this.
End of days Pay attention to the details regarding the ending of your tenancy agreement. If you leave without giving notice, you can get in real trouble!
Services As there a lot of essential service providers out there (i.e. gas, electricity, telephone, internet...), choosing the right one can be hard. Check out the website www.choiceswitch.com.au. It lets you compare providers to get the best deal. Remember, it’s not essential to have a home phone, simply having a mobile phone may be adequate. For more information or if you run into trouble with your landlord, call the Tenants Union of Victoria on 9416 2577. To keep up to date with the latest news on real estate. Be sure to read the real estate section of the newspaper. There is a lot of information out there about the living spaces that are available in Melbourne. Have a look at the pin up boards on campus and in other popular student places. You may be able to rent with other students to minimise costs, so keep your ear to the ground as there may be others in the same situation as you.
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne 93
Photo: Tony Pierrakos QV Market 94 Useful Info
w w w.insider.net.au
What’s My Team? Live sport absolutely thrives in Melbourne, with teams in every major national sporting code and consistently dominating many different competitions. Seeing live sport for yourself is also an experience worth having, and in Melbourne you have so many opportunities to do so. There are a range of different sports on offer, whether it be ones you recognise from home like soccer (football in some countries), tennis, cricket and basketball. Perhaps you want to see some new sports like Australian Football, which Victoria is crazy about and has numerous teams within the national competition (AFL - Australian Football League). There are other (national and international) famous sporting events held in Melbourne, and many standard competition games held on a weekly basis. Here is an overview of how to get out and about and witness some testosterone flying and adrenalin driven sports action right here in Melbourne.
The Insider 2010 - International Student Guide to Melbourne
95
AFL
TOP5.
Sporting Icons 1.
Donald Bradman Cricket
The Don was Australia’s most famous cricket player, he retired in 1948 with a batting average of 99.94 (that’s good).
2.
Cathy Freeman
Running Cathy Freeman won the 400m gold medal at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and was chosen to light the Olympic cauldron the same year.
3.
Ian Thorpe
Swimming He broke world records with ease and took home 5 Olympic gold medals for Australia.
4.
Greg Norman Golf
Australia’s most successful golfer, he’s won the Open Championship twice!
5.
Ken Rosewall Tennis
A master with the racket, he won the US Open twice, the French Open twice and the Australian Open four times!
96
Useful Info
Victoria has 10 teams in the AFL and is the one sport you will find most people discussing in pubs, bars, cafeterias and everywhere else. You may actually find it a bit strange to hear the locals speak about AFL in such an obsessive way. We suggest checking out a few games and seeing if you like it. If you don’t like the game, chances are you will still like the atmosphere! If you get caught in a conversation about AFL, just say sentences like “did you see the game last night? How about that referee ay?” - you should be fine. The teams and their home grounds are listed below: Collingwood Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Richmond MCG Melbourne MCG Hawthorn MCG & York Park Carlton Docklands Stadium & MCG Essendon Docklands Stadium North Melbourne Etihad Stadium St Kilda Etihad Stadium
You can find more information about the AFL at the official website: www.afl.com.au.
A-League soccer Known as football in many countries, Melbourne will host two A-League teams in 2010. The always entertaining Melbourne Victory will be joined by the newest addition to the league, Melbourne Heart. Although the standard of soccer in Australia is lower than in Europe, it’s still great to see some brilliant young talent strut their stuff here in Australia before they get picked up by top European teams. Melbourne Victory Etihad Stadium Melbourne Heart Melbourne Rectangular Stadium
Basketball The Melbourne Tigers are the team here, and always put on a good show for the crowds. Although basketball in general is not that popular here in Australia, we have nourished the talent of a few players who have gone on to play in the NBA. Melbourne Tigers The Cage
Western Bulldogs Etihad Stadium Geelong Kardinia Park
w w w.insider.net.au
Street art/ bar tours melbourne art/ design guide WMSG shop
wemakestuffgood.com
The
Insider
2010
Thank You! This publication is only made possible because of the businesses who chose to participate within it. Thank you for your support. The Insider team would also like to thank everyone else who contributed in any way, shape or form.
Special Thanks Special thanks to the team at We Make Stuff Good, Tahnee Moore, Tony Pierrakos (who let us use lots of photos and who has a great stall down at the Queen Victoria Market), Alex Doudy, Elyse Lloyd, Ben Lutrell, Sarah Lutrell, Jesse Kemelfield, Guy Vincent, Dan Wei, Peter Martin, Madeleine Martin, Lynne Trezise, Greg Trezise, Josh Trezise, Kathrine Heinrich, Florence Wong and Danny Ong.
Advertise with us.
98
Who are we?
If you think your business could benefit from reaching the large international student market in Victoria or South Australia, please feel free to contact us for a Media Kit:
James Martin
James Martin Editor james@insider.net.au Ph: 0403 680 876
Co-Editor & Graphic Designer sam@insider.net.au
Credits
Editor james@insider.net.au Sam Trezise
Chris Martin Graphic Designer chris@insider.net.au
w w w.insider.net.au
• • • • •