A Shore Thing

Melbourne’s Neighbourhoods A Shore Thing

Just 15 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD you’ll discover 20 kilometres of coastal trails and foreshore to explore at Hobsons Bay.

Williamstown Foreshore John Palermo

When the sun is shining, take the family, your friends or your dog to Hobsons Bay in Melbourne’s west to experience nature, beaches and fun activities. There are walking and cycling trails that follow the shoreline, go past lakes and traverse parklands. Surrounded by nature and tranquillity, you’ll never believe you’re so close to the bustle of the city.

Views for Miles

Set on 25 hectares near Altona is Truganina Coastal Park. The regenerated bushland and adjoining Cheetham Wetlands are a natural habitat for birds, frogs and other wildlife and can be explored via the many walking and cycling trails. By far the biggest attraction here is the 100 Steps of Federation, where, at the top of this outdoor staircase, you’ll find Cameron Robbins’ sculpture Time Beacon. This is the highest point between Melbourne and the You Yangs, so there’s a sweeping panorama of the city skyline and Port Phillip Bay.

Jawbone Reserve John Palermo

A Beach for All

It was already one of Melbourne’s finest stretches of sand, popular for swimming, kite boarding and paddleboarding, but there’s now even more reason to visit Altona Beach. It’s the first beach in Australia to provide matting down to the water, making it accessible to anyone using a wheelchair or other mobility aid. There’s an accessible change facility at Weaver Reserve, and beach wheelchairs are available to hire for free on weekends between noon and 5pm.

History on the Water

Head to Nelson Place in Williamstown for some great cafes and restaurants then check out Gem Pier. Here, you’ll discover the permanently docked HMAS Castlemaine,a former minesweeper that saw active duty during World War II but is now a floating museum. Check with the Visitor Information Centre on (03) 9932 3016 regarding ferry services available if you want to take the scenic route back to the city. + experiencehobsonsbay.com

Melbourne’s Neighbourhoods Market Master

Alberto Andres Simon Shiff

La Central

The owner of La Central Spanish Deli & Bodega tells us why he loves South Melbourne Market and what to expect when you visit.

For more than a decade Alberto Andres shopped at South Melbourne Market. He was in the furniture business, but part of him wanted to share his Spanish culture. “I thought the best way might be to start a deli,” he says, and that’s exactly what he did, launching La Central almost four years ago.

Off the Shelf

These days its shelves are stocked with the best wines and produce from Spain. “We also like to support local producers,” says Alberto. “We can’t import smallgoods, so they’re made by companies here using traditional Spanish methods.” As well as buying everything to take home, you can order tapas to eat as you watch everyone else shop.

Other Favourites

Working at the market means it’s still where Alberto does his shopping. “There are lots of incredible places,” he says. “But for bread and sweet pastries I would go to Agathé, which is a French bakery. For seafood, Aptus is amazing. Hagen’s Organics is an excellent butcher, and I usually get my vegetables and fruits at Fruits on Coventry.” His best tip though is to ask the stall holder for recommendations and advice if you need it. +southmelbournemarket.com.au

The Rose St. Artists’ Market

In the heart of eclectic Fitzroy, the Rose Street Artists’ Market is packed to the rafters with always original art and design. This season, we’re showcasing more than 200 new and exciting local makers, giving you the opportunity to peruse numerous stall displays, collect, source and commission unique handmade works, and meet, greet and speak with artists and designers in person. Expect to fi nd everything from the wacky to the wonderful, including quirky homewares, sustainable fashion, one-off jewellery pieces and unique paintings. If you’re a lover of all things handmade then look no further. Come along and experience it for yourself. Celebrating 18 years of handmade. Tram: Number 11 or 96 from city to stop 16 Open: Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy t:0414 803 228 w:rosestmarket.com.au Find us on:

South Melbourne Market

Since 1867, South Melbourne Market has been a much-loved destination for locals and visitors. The market has more than 150 stalls off ering specialty food, fresh produce, artisan goods, fashion and gifts, plus a vibrant restaurant precinct, gourmet food hall and popular oyster bars. Just fi ve minutes from the city centre, catch the 96 tram to South Melbourne. Open: Wed, Sat and Sun, 8am to 4pm and Fri, 8am to 5pm. Restaurants open 'til late 322–326 Coventry St, South Melbourne t: 03 9209 6295 w: southmelbournemarket.com.au Find us on: