We Know Melbourne Your key to the city
SPRING
THE MINI MAG - ISSUE 8 : Spring 2017 Illustrated by Aran Haydec
CONTENTS 14 4
Melbourne CBD Guide
8
5
Healthy Spring Snack by Fiona Tuck
15
Melbourne Spring Events
9 6
Interview: Daragh Kan
Relaxation in Melbourne
Bayside Guide
10 10
2
Richmond Guide
Interview: Sheng Fan
16
A Day out to the East Side
FROM
WKM 20 17
Art n' Absinthe
Gently shake off Winter’s frost and welcome Spring with open arms as the city comes alive. Spring certainly brings out the best in Melbourne, with beautiful clear skies and sunshine, blossoming flowers and a sense of excitement in the air.
Lunch Under $10
21 18
Interview: Aran Haydec
Spring Activities
22 19
Welcome to our eighth edition of The Mini Mag, brought to you by the talented We Know Melbourne team at The Swanston Hotel, Grand Mercure and Mercure Welcome Melbourne.
Eva & Les Erdi Humanitarian Charitable Foundation
Royal Melbourne Show
23
In this edition, you’ll get tips on some healthy spring snacks designed by Fiona Tuck and find out why Spring is so exciting with our top picks of Melbourne events. For mums and dads, we have a list of outdoor family activities for you, and the best way to experience The Royal Melbourne Show! We interviewed some of the most interesting people in Melbourne Daragh Kan, the co-owner of the new Hightail Bar; Sheng Fan, owner of award winning Modern Chinese restaurant - RuYi; and illustrator Aran Haydec, whose work graces our cover! So, put away your winter coats and soak up the sunshine with us!
Have any questions, recommendations or tips? Send us an email at ask@weknowmelbourne.com.au
Where to Stay 3
MELBOURNE CBD GUIDE Food & Drinks
1. Kinfolk Cafe | 673 Bourke St Get your delicious coffee at Kinfolk Café and help others. These guys are run by volunteers and give 100% of their profits to their charity partners. 2. Crux and Co Patisserie | 27 Little Collins St Need to get your sweet tooth fix? Crux and Co Patisserie serves French influenced pastries and specialised “crogel”, a croissant/bagel fusion at Little Collins Street. 3. Doughboys Doughnuts | 535 Bourke St The place that does not disappoint with fluffy doughnuts and coffee that won't be beaten. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me up. 4. The Croft Institute | 21 Croft Alley Walk down an alley way and into a science lab. This quirky bar has some tasty syringe cocktails waiting for you. 5. Agathe Patisserie Petite | Shop 49A Royal Arcade Hand-made French pastries at the hole in the wall in the Royal Arcade. Say yes to a delicious chocolate filled croissant! 6. Journal Cafe | 253 Flinders Lane You’ll call Journal Café home if you are a lover of books. The café is adjacent to the City Library, filled with a New York city vibe. Your hide away place when you want some peace and quiet to read. 7. Osteria Ilaria | 190 Queen St Ciao Bella! The new Italian restaurant in town just next door to Tipo 00. A great place to go to for a catch up drink and tasty Italian food.
Melbourne is the city that's famous for its coffee and food. Let us help you with our guide and show you where the locals go for a fresh brew and a bite to eat in the heart of Melbourne CBD. 1
5
2
Photo by Olivia Blackburn 3
Photo by Bec Dickinson 6
Photo by Voyage Collective 4
7
8
LATEST HOTSPOT 8. Workshop Brothers | 190 Queen St The new kid on the block with an amazing interior, oasis storefront environment and most importantly… DELICIOUS COFFEE.
For the full We Know Melbourne CBD Guide visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/melbournecbdguide/
4
After a broody Melbourne Winter, the city quickly ramps back up into full festival mode while Melbournians celebrate the return of the Victorian sun. Here are our picks for the top Melbourne Spring events that we recommend you put into your calendar. 1
MELBOURNE'S BEST SPRING EVENTS 1. Melbourne Fashion Week | 1 - 8 Sep Kicking off with a gorgeous opening night runway hosted by Emporium on Little Bourke Street, this week long celebration of Spring fashion is perfectly timed with the imminent arrival of Spring Racing carnival. It features a host of events, exhibitions and exclusive sales in and around the CBD for dedicated followers of fashion. 2. Spring Racing Carnival | 11 Sep - 11 Nov Kicking off with Sofitel Girls Day Out at Flemington, Melbourne’s passion for fashion and horse racing gets reignited for two months with a range of racing events like Oaks, Derby and Stakes Day, Caulfield Cup and the world famous Melbourne Cup. Get ready to get dressed up and put your bets on.
2
3
4
3. Fringe Festival | 14 Sep - 1 Oct Lovers of cabaret, thought-provoking drama, comedy, improvisation, dance and even puppetry will enjoy this festival. Showcasing the best of Melbourne’s talented performing artists at various locations throughout the city and fringe. 4. Melbourne Marathon | 15 Oct Kicking off around Birrarung Marr and concluding with a glorious lap of the MCG, the Melbourne Marathon attracts upwards of 30,000 runners every year - running to the beat of their own drum in either a 5.7, 10km, half or full marathon.
5
5. Melbourne Festival | 4 - 22 Oct In essence, a celebration of Melbourne’s vibrant arts community. This festival showcases world-class dance, theatre, music and visual arts. Led by Artistic Director Jonathan Holloway, in all sorts of venues in and around the CBD. 6
6. The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture | 1 Sep - 4 Nov Celebrate and embrace the rich history of Christian Dior, this Spring at the NGV. Exhibition includes the early influences of Christian Dior, insights into the Dior atelier workrooms and the milestones of its six successive designers following Christian Dior's sudden death in 1957. Get ready Melbourne and be amazed by Christian Dior's iconic collection - New Look 1947!
Photo by Pol Baril
5
INTERVIEW:
Daragh Kan, Hightail Bar Hightail bar is the new go to spot for an after work drink, catch up with old mates or even just for a casual lunch. The décor of the bar is elegant, yet quirky, the drinks are delicious and the food is unbeatable. Let Daragh Kan, one of the owners of Hightail Bar tell you a little bit more about the venue and himself.
1. Tell us Daragh, what was the main inspiration behind this extravagant Hightail Bar and what makes it different? We wanted to create an escape for people in the surrounding areas and that’s where the concept of building a watering hole came from. With so many office workers in the area, having a bit of an oasis for them to take a break from work seemed like a smart idea. 2. For Hightail Bar first timers, what is the best way to experience it? With a group of friends and an empty stomach. Head down, grab a table and then download our app 100 Orders. The app lets you order and pay for all your drinks and food from Mr Burger, Belles Hot Chicken and Super Taco and get it delivered straight to your table. 3. We know Melbourne is an amazing city, but what made you choose Melbourne to open up Hightail Bar? Melbourne’s my home town and it’s where our business is based, so it makes sense for us to open venues here. We’re currently looking at some venues interstate, but Melbourne will always be home base for us. 4. What is your next adventure after Hightail Bar? We’ve got a couple of new venues we’re working on at the moment, but right now our focus is on getting Hightail up and running. 5. As a successful entrepreneur, what would be your top tips for those who are wanting to start up a business? Don’t be worried about what you don’t know. You’ll learn it along the way. The best thing to do if you want to start a business is to start it. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or changing course.
6
6. Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got to where you are today? I was born in Ireland and moved to Australia when I was 4. My first job was as a lounge boy at a pub in Ireland when I was 13, so I’ve been around hospitality all my life. When I finished school I started a few different degrees before completing a Bachelor of Business Entrepreneurship. I was working in bars and events and opened a club when I was still studying. We founded Mr Burger in 2012 and the group now includes Belles Hot Chicken, Welcome To Thornbury, Super Taco and others. 7. If you could be anywhere right now where would it be and why? Probably Japan. It’s one of my favourite countries to visit for so many reasons. The people, culture, food, architecture. I could go on, but if you haven’t been, I’d highly recommend it. 8. What is your favourite place in Melbourne during Spring? The CBD. I live in the CBD and it’s my favourite place any time of year. People start coming out of their shells after winter and there’s a real sense of excitement around town. I think a lot of people don’t consider the CBD as a place they would like to live, but for me I wouldn’t have it any other way. 9. If you could describe yourself under 5 words, what would it be? Normal guy doing cool stuff. 10. Lastly, tell us the five things in life you can’t live without. Wifi, Uber, iPhone, friends and Sparkling Mineral Water.
Visit Hightail Bar | 727 Collins Street, Docklands Open from 11am - 12;30am on Monday to Friday. 12pm - 12:30am on Saturday.
7
HEALTHY SPRING SNACK by Fiona Tuck
If you’ve been working hard in the gym this winter, don’t let a Spring fling with a sugar laden cupcake undo it. We caught up with Fiona Tuck, a Nutritional Medicine Practitioner, Skincare Expert, Yoga Teacher and accredited member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society, who shared her recipe for a sugar free snack that is as delicious as it is healthy!
SUGAR FREE WALNUT BROWNIES Prep time: 20mins, cook time: 20min. Serves: 15. Ingredients: 4 small cooked beetroots, about 250g 3 eggs 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla powder or natural vanilla essence 1 pinch sea salt flakes 1/4 cup cacao or cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting 2 tablespoons stevia 1 cup almond meal 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped roughly Step 1 Preheat oven to 180°C. Step 2 Place beetroots, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, sea salt, cacao powder and stevia in a blender or food processor, and process until smooth. Mix in almond meal, baking powder and walnuts. Step 3 Line a shallow rectangular baking tin with baking paper. Transfer the mixture into the tin and smooth the top. Bake for 20 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool before slicing and dusting with extra cacao powder. Step 4 Bake for 20 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool before slicing and dusting with extra cacao powder
To get to know Fiona Tuck better visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/2017/08/31/fionatuck/
8
The best way to start your spring is kicking it off by the beach! A short train ride from the city, we've got your day out to bayside covered. From breakfast to lunch, follow by an afternoon stroll on the beach and finish it with an Italian dinner. Get out of town and explore bayside this spring.
1
5
Photo by Jessica Prince 6
2
Photo by Simon Shiff 3
7
4
8
For the full bayside guide visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/bayside-guide
BAYSIDE GUIDE
Brighton, Hampton & Bentleigh 1. Brighton Soul Espresso | 129 Church St, Brighton Amazing all day breakfast menu and friendly service. We love their Matcha Buttermilk Pancakes! They look as great as they taste. 2. Little Tommy Tucker | 432 Centre Rd, Bentleigh Everything on the menu can be made gluten-free! Their grilled halloumi with pumpkin and spinach smash with poached eggs, dukkah and black garlic aioli on pumpkin sourdough is a must try. 3. La Svolta | 450 Hampton St, Hampton Dining at La Svolta is like visiting an Italian’s nonna home, that welcoming vibe and authentic Italian food. 4. Dog Friendly Beach | Sandown St, Brighton The sun is out, the flowers are blooming and the1perfect way to spend time with your best furry friend is to take them to the beach where they can run wild! 5. Sons of Mary | 14 Spink St, Brighton Whether you are there for breakfast, lunch or dinner; Sons of Mary has delicious coffee, mouth-watering dishes and irresistible cocktails waiting for you. 6. Too Many Chiefs | 305 Bay St, Brighton Try their too-pretty-to-drink, rainbow latte and Poke Bowl. The food isn’t just delicious, but it’s nutritious too! 7. Hamish & Grace Homewares | 29 Carpenter St, Brighton This is the perfect store for finding that rare, unique present that gets talked about for years to come! LATEST HOTSPOT 8. The Brighton Buoy | 42 Church St, Brighton In case you get hungry while you're shopping, The Brighton Buoy, located inside Country Road has got you covered with delightful coffee and yummy bagels.
9
INTERVIEW: Sheng Fang, RuYi
RuYi, Melbourne's award winning Modern Chinese restaurant is the place to go for all occasions. The perfect place to bring your in-laws, first dates or maybe even to propose. We got the chance to have a chat with the owner, Sheng so you can get to know him and RuYi a little better.
1. Sheng, we know there is a story hiding behind RuYi relating to your childhood, can you please tell us a little more about it? Some people write a biography, some people release an album‌ Me, I opened RuYi as my way of telling others my story. Every little detail in the restaurant has a little story about myself and where I grew up. In fact, the building on RuYi’s business card is actually my childhood home in China. I was brought up in a household where everything involved food and design, and that is what I would like the customers to experience when they come into RuYi, to have memorable and unique moments of dedicated Chinese cuisine and modern design. 2. What made you decide to move to Melbourne and open a modern Chinese restaurant? I first came to Australia to study just before I turned 18. I never had the intention of opening a restaurant, yet here I am. 3. We know you are a great cook, but what other skills are you proud of? I am an amazing dad who knows how to ride a motorbike. I also have some knowledge on wheat flour, as I actually own a food processing factory for almost 10 years now where we make stuff like noodles or pasta. 4. How did you celebrate when RuYi won its first award in 2014 as Best New Restaurant in Melbourne? At RuYi, we treat everyone like family. We probably see each other more than we see our own family actually. It is the sad reality, but that is why the team is extremely close. Whenever we win an award, we celebrate it together, like a family with a few bottles of bubbles and look forward to our next achievement together. 5. RuYi continues to win great awards each
10
year, what's next? I want RuYi not to just be a restaurant, but continue to grow and become a brand. If you take a closer look, RuYi’s tableware is actually branded with our logo. We partnered up with local fine and elegant potters to help us design our unique branding. Many customers had asked if they can purchase our tablewares! 6. Other than RuYi, what is your favourite dine out restaurant in Melbourne and why? Endless choices! However, Sunday is normally my day off where I get to spend time with my family, and when we go out, we want to eat well. Funny that my kids actually don’t enjoy eating Chinese food when their dad owns a Chinese restaurant! Usually we like going to places like Saint Crispin or Vue De Monde. We like Andrew McConnell and his restaurants like Culter & Co. In all honesty, the main reason why we appreciate dining out at these type of restaurants is because I get to learn new things myself while I spend quality time with my family. 7. What is Sheng’s typical day like? I mostly have long days… I wake up early, and go to my other business to have a short tour around the factory. After my visit there I then come to RuYi to have either meetings or interviews. I would be here at RuYi to train staff or simply just to have a catch up with them. Normally I don’t leave here until 11pm, because to us it is all about details and team harmony here at RuYi. 8. Tell us what is your perfect spring holiday? If I was to take a spring holiday, I would actually stay in Melbourne. I love nature and love soaking in the fresh air. I would probably drive to Mt Dandenong Ranges with my family… or maybe ride my motorbike and go by myself. I can’t decide. 9. If you could describe yourself in less than 5 words, what would it be? I would say… warm, passionate, detailed, real and unpretentious. 10. Lastly, do you have any plans to open up another restaurant? Not at the moment to be honest. I want to nourish RuYi first to the point where I know it is ready for me to move on to the next adventure.
Visit RuYi Modern Chinese | 16 Liverpool St, Melbourne CBD Open for l unch: Monday- Friday. Dinner: Monday - Saturday. Sunday open in spring. W : www.ruyi.com.au P : (03) 9090-7778
11
BAR Open from 4PM til late | Happy hour : 5pm - 7pm daily
Mezzanine level, 195 Swanston Street, Melbourne
CALLI NG ALL M ELBOUR N E BASED CR EATIVES We’re seeking talented artists, illustrators and designers to feature on our We Know Melbourne Facebook cover page. Enjoy your work being showcased for a full month, have your interview published on our website and go into the draw to have your design on our quarterly We Know Melbourne Mini Mag cover! HOW TO ENTER: - Tech specs - artwork must be a .png, .jpeg or PDF file in RGB format. Must be scalable to 828(w)px x 315(h)px, to ensure your full design is shown. -E mail us at socialmedia@erdigroup.com.au with your design, and a little about yourself and what you do. - Winners will be contacted on the 20th of each month.
12
Leaving Melbourne? Don't miss out on an Urban deal...
Spring deals at Hotel Urban this Spring Gorgeous style and affordable boutique comfort. Stay for $129* per night in Brisbane where Roma Street Parklands is right on your door step, or from $149* per night Thur - Sun in St Leonards, located in the leafy north shore suburbs of Sydney.
BOOK NOW using promo code 'SPRING' Visit hotelurban.com.au *T&C apply. Must book by 15 Nov 2017.
13
RICHMOND GUIDE 1. Pillar of Salt | 541 Church St One of Richmond’s go-to places for foodies. The food is modern Australian with classic brunch favourites. Our pick is the Nordic Breakfast board and for something sweet try the buttermilk pancake stack. 2. Church St Shopping Church Street is home to a variety of furniture and home stores, from the conventional Nick Scali, through to quirky modern Matt Blatt and SPACE. 3. Feast of Merit | 117 Swan St Here, their philosophy is ‘Farm to fork and served to share’, with produce sourced locally and sustainability. 100 percent of Feast of Merit’s profits going directly to support YGAP movement. Beyond good karma, you’ll find a delightfully simple menu of salads and proteins. 4. NeoSkin | 357 Bridge Rd Book in at NeoSkin for a complimentary skin consultation with a customized facial from their extensive menu. Come away glowing with satisfaction. 5. Maedaya Japanese | 400 Bridge Rd The clever use of rope for décor, huge sake bar and traditional grill make for a classic Japanese feel. Maedaya’s tapas style menu is ordered via iPad, making for a novel addition to some mouth-watering meals. Our pick is the salted Yakiton combined with any warmed sake from the drinks menu they’re all fantastic. LATEST HOTSPOT 6. Bowerbird Bar | 274 Bridge Rd A fabulous new addition to Richmond’s night scene where you can choose from gin, wine and beers that are 100% locally crafted. Go all out with a fabulous cocktail such as the Katooie - a spider made with Melbourne Gin Company Gin, house made lime and coconut milk sorbet, topped with house made grape and lychee soda and finished with grated frozen chili.
14
Richmond is an ever-changing suburbwith the same underlying theme: quality and quantity! From the range of cafes and eateries to nightlife, home and fashion retailers, Richmond is begging you to put on comfortable shoes and enjoy a great day out.
1
Photo by Carmen Zammit 2
Photo by Rober Polmear 3
4 Photo by Tim Grey 5
6
Photo by Julia Atkinson
For the full We Know Melbourne Richmond Guide visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/richmond-guide/
The hustle and bustle of Melbourne is something we love, but after a long flight, a long week or just a long afternoon sometimes we just want peace, quiet and R&R. Lucky for you, you don’t even need to step out from the CBD to find hidden nooks for quick rejuvenation.
1
2
3
4
5
TIME TO RELAX 1. I want to drift away...Onsen Ma | 12 - 18 Meyers Place Onsen Ma offers Japanese massage, hot oil massage and foot treatments to fit your time and budget. But be aware - Onsen Ma is traditional in every sense of the word, meaning men and women bathe separately and swimsuits are not allowed. We say embrace your birthday suit in the name of true relaxation. 2. I need to actively relax...Yoga Corner | 1/447 Little Collins St Whether you’re a regular practicer, crinkled up from a long haul flight, or simply need a space to move and meditate, Yoga Corner offers an extensive timetable of different yoga styles to ensure you’ll always find your fit. 3. Uh oh, I think I’ve done something... Core Therapy | Fitness First Platinum QV Nestled in Fitness First, Core Therapy is devoted to proactive remedial massage and comprehensive therapies like dry needling and cupping. If that sports injury is putting you out of joint, we recommend a trip to Core Therapy to straighten you out, literally. 4. I want to feel good and look good... Sakura Lounge | 8 - 10 Warbuton Lane “Inner peace, outer glow” is this spa's motto. This Japanese style lounge and spa is ready to delight with shiatsu, hot stone and oil massages, and features an extensive beauty menu with facials and body wraps ready to revive bodies that are needing some love. 5. Strapped for cash but in need to relax... Carlton Gardens | 1 – 111 Carlton St Make like the locals do and take a stroll through Carlton Gardens. One of Melbourne’s favourite green escapes, you’ll find plenty of city workers here kicking off shoes and jackets for an impromptu picnic. Find yourself the perfect sunny spot, download a free meditation app (we like Pacifica) and spend time reconnecting. No cash needed.
15
A DAY OUT to the East Side
Along shady, tree-lined streets, Lilydale is host to some of Melbourne’s oldest buildings, most scenic walking trails, delicious winery tours and plenty of amazing eateries. Head out of the city and into the wonderful Eastern suburbs to enjoy a day in the sun!
8:30am - Breakfast at Hutch & Co. Start your day with a tasty breakfast and coffee of your choice! If you’re after something a little bit different, try the Sir Bacon Benny which comes with slow cooked honey pork jowl and pear. 9:30 - Lilydale Lake Enjoy the morning sunshine and the fresh air with a walk around Lilydale Lake. There’s plenty to see, with fishing competitions, remote control boat races and an endless display of frolicking birds. If you’re felling adventurous, the locals would suggest hiring a kayak and relaxing on the water. 11:00 - Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Experience all that Lilydale has to offer. Incorporating the old Lilydale Council Offices that were built in 1889, the regional museum is beautifully designed to tell the story of how the local region has grown through the ages. 12:00 - Warburton Trail Venture on to the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail and take in breathtaking mountainous views. 1:00 - Billy Goat Hill Brasserie Stop by the Billy Goat Hill Brasserie for a fulfilling lunch on your way through Mount Evelyn. Just off the trail, relax on the deck, sip a few local wines and refuel for the rest of your journey. 4:30pm - Yarra Junction Stop by the local shops and indulge in retail reward or a decadent ice cream for your efforts. Cross one of the many heritage bridges over the Yarra and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the beauty of Warburton. 7:30pm - Athenaeum End your day with a visit to the historical Lilydale Athenaeum Hall for an interesting theatrical show. With complimentary sherry, soft drinks, wine and nibbles, you’ll be sure to enjoy this one-of-a-kind theatre experience.
16
There are so many delicious places to eat in Melbourne, here are our top picks for lunch spots that won't break your bank!
1
5
2
Photo by Jesse Thompson 6
3
7 4
8
Photo by Kristofter Paulsen
LUNCH UNDER $10 in Melbourne CBD
1. Shanghai Street | 342 Little Bourke St Get your dumpling craving fix here during lunch. One of our favourites is the pork and prawn wonton noodle soup for $9.20. 2. Gopal’s Vegetarian | 139 Swanston St This is for our vegetarian friends out there. Gopal’s Vegetarian lasagna special is our favourite for just $9.90 for a big slice of lasagna and salad. 3. Udon Yasan | 186 Bourke St Lunch like the Japanese. Choose your base of udon noodles from $6.30, then add a side from $1.50 each. Our favourite is the beef udon noodle soup + karaage chicken for $9.30. 4. MissChu | 297 Exhibition St If you are after something light for lunch today, MissChu is a great choice. Have some Vietnamese rice paper rolls from only $7.50 for 2 rolls! Our favourite is the tiger prawn & green mango. So fresh and so delish. 5. 4 Fingers | 189 Bourke Street The chicken wings at 4 Fingers is finger licking good. Order the wing and drum set to get Singaporean fried chicken fusion for just $10. 6. Mr Burger | 377 Swanston St The burger you cannot resist. Get your Mr Burger at Melbourne Central, comes with freshly ground meat, cheese, pickles, combo of sauces and greens for just $10. 7. Sushi Monger | Shop 17, 325 Bourke St Are you a bento lover? Sushi Monger has read your mind. All bentos come with a side dish (varies depending on the day), rice and salad from only $9.80. 8. Wonderbao | 4/19~37 A’Beckett St For authentic Chinese steamed buns and Taiwanese Gua Baos, Wonderbao is a must visit. Our favourite is the Veggie Pack, with Choi bao + taro bao and fried silky tofu gua bao for just $9.70.
17
SPRING ACTIVITIES
As the gloomy weather starts to disappear, it becomes easier to pry our children away from the screens and venture outdoors for some fun. Here are some of our favourite Melbourne attractions to visit with the family this Spring.
for all the family
1. Royal Melbourne Show | 23 September - 3 October Every year loads of excited people gather to celebrate and showcase excellence in agriculture. Visitors can get up close and personal to many animals, cuddle a baby lamb or milk a cow. Foodies will enjoy the event featuring award-winning food and beverages, pop-up restaurants and intimate cooking demonstrations from Australia’s finest chefs. See how a Melbournian does the show on our next page! 2. Funfields | 2365 Plenty Rd, Whittlesea Funfields features an amazing mix of both wet and dry rides for a perfect family day out. You will be amazed by the rides and attractions, including the all NEW Gravity Wave, the World’s Longest Proslide Wave and Victoria’s biggest & tallest water slide. You will be spoilt for choice with mini golf, go karts, toboggans and a whole lot more. After all that fun, you can refuel and grab a bite to eat at one of the many food outlets. 3. GlowGolf | Docklands Transform the good-old-fashioned mini golf into an amazing glow-in-the dark experience. Glow Golf features 18 holes of fun, in airconditioned, indoor comfort. Ideal for family outing under any weather circumstances. Located in Docklands, it is sure to be great fun for all the family. 4. Walking Tours | Various Take in the beautiful sights of spring on one of Melbourne’s walking tours, our favourite is the chocolate tour that takes you round some of Melbourne’s best chocolatiers. The tour is fortnightly (Saturday 10am) and leaves from the Royal Arcade on Bourke street. 5. Balloon Aloft - Hot Air Balloon | Various locations Take in the picturesque Melbourne skyline from a whole new perspective.. A balloon ride over Melbourne offers views of famous attractions including the MCG, the Shrine of Remembrance, Albert Park and the Yarra River. The sunrise Melbourne balloon ride lasts approximately one hour and gives you stunning views of the city and suburbs.
18
1
2
3
4
5
ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW From carnival rides and showbags to petting zoos, craft workshops and lots of food, The Royal Melbourne Show is an event that cannot be missed. So, meet us by The Pie and let us show you how to experience the show like a true Melbournian. Avoid the crowds We suggest putting off visiting The Show until the second week and making use of public transport, that way you’ll have more time for all the show’s novelties. Carnival rides The Melbourne Show has three carnival precincts, so no one misses out. Our favourites are the Gravitron, the Hangover, the Pirate Ship and The Spook Ghost Train. Don’t forget to see the baby animals! To make your experience at The Show truly unforgettable, you have to stop by the animal nursery and farmyard, where you can cuddle a baby lamb, pat a pig or try your hand at milking a cow. The kids will love the hands-on activities when the country comes to the city. Breed championships With pampered, snooty kitties and talented, obedient pooches, these championships are definitely entertaining for the fur baby lovers. Watch as judges assess all different breeds as the animals parade around and tackle obstacles. The winning tastes pavilion You will find Melbourne’s hottest pop-up restaurants and eateries including delectable desert bars - great for the foodies and worth a look around, even just to get a sense of the aromas! But if you’re looking for something a little more simple yet still delicious, we recommend heading to the Woolworths Fresh Food Pavilion for some freshly made sushi or a tasty cheese toastie. Buy several Bertie Beetle Showbags Bertie Beetles are the BEST chocolates you will ever have and of course, you can only get them at the show. Before you leave Make your way over to The Sky Wheel where you will have the perfect view over the Showgrounds and watch the spectacular fireworks display create a dazzling and unforgettable end to your day!
19
ART & ABSINTHE in Fitzroy
Fitzroy’s relatively new Absinthesalon is a little mysterious. Hidden behind a heavy, unassuming wooden door off Fitzroy’s Rose Street, guests are admitted only after they ring a doorbell. Once inside, they are transported down the rabbit hole to a soft, elegant and dreamlike 19th century French salon with close to 40 varieties of the spirit available. We caught up with Paddy Hutchinson, from Absinthesalon, where we dispelled the biggest myth of absinthe.
1. Personal favourite from the current selection? If pressed for a favourite I usually go for the Jade Terminus; it’s got an elegantly layered palette, a beautiful creamy texture and this underlying spice that reminds me a little of Islay whiskies. Add to that the beautiful bottle art and the fact that its connected to some of the best stories - which given Absinthe's history is really saying something - means that I enjoy it both as a drink and I suppose, [also] an artifact. 2. What is the biggest Absinthe myth you would like to dispel? ‘Wow, there are a few... I suppose the one that surprised me was that some people seem to think there's only one style of Absinthe. Even with the drink being banned for the better part of a century, you've got a diversity of flavours that rivals whiskey or rum and a number of radically different regional approaches. I've been itching to get hold of some of the new Californian ones actually, I hear there's some very talented operators out there. We're in the middle of a worldwide spirit renaissance at the moment, I'm pretty happy to be a part of it. 3. How long have you been working in the Absinthesalon? ‘I've been working with the Absinthesalon six months now, basically since we opened the doors. I helped a little with the final stages of decoration, and being able to see its final transformation was pretty special... since then I've kind of become part of the decor.’
Photo by Brett Sixty six
For the full interview with Paddy Hutchinson visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/2017/09/01/artnabsintheinfitzroy
20
INTERVIEW: with Aran Haydec
For our Spring issue 8 cover, we did a collaboration with Aran, a multi-talented artist who will inspire you with his art and his stories. 1. Tell us a little about yourself Aran. I'm 27 years old and I moved to Melbourne about 8 years ago from Byron Bay. I have a wife and little cavoodle who I absolutely adore, and apart from art and design I love to cook. My favourite cuisine (next to burgers, if you can call that a cuisine) is Mexican... yum! Wait, does KFC count as a cuisine?? And my top spot for coffee in the city at the moment is "White Mojo". 2. What was the inspiration behind the WKM Spring Issue 8 cover illustrations? I love the buzz in Melbourne when Winter disappears and Spring is in the air! My inspiration for this issue came from the racing and fashion events that take over the city and seamlessly give it a new life. I feel it becomes such a huge part of our culture; like the city and it's people are one. Even if you've never been to one of those events, you claim it as your own. It's as much a part of the city as the people in it, and that's what I tried to incorporate into my art. 3. What is your favourite thing to do in Melbourne during Spring? After being cooped up all Winter I get so excited to be able to enjoy some breakfast in the sun! There's always so much to discover in the CBD, so I try to spend as much time as I can exploring. More often than not, it's the small, inconspicuous lanes of the city that prove to be the most rewarding! 4. What is the one thing you cannot live without as a creative and why? Technology these days is such a powerful tool, and I love having my iPad with me to sketch and paint on the go! However, I think the most valuable source of inspiration I have is my other creative friends. Surrounding myself with people that can encourage me, challenge me and add to my life creatively does far more than any piece of technology ever will! 5. Lastly, where can we purchase your artwork? www.moonmancreative.com.au is where you can check out and purchase some of my artwork. Follow my journey on Instagram @moonman.creative.
21
EVA & LES ERDI
HUMANITARIAN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
“ To be truly rich in the heart, one must give.� Dr. Les Erdi, Oam Eva and Les Erdi are the proud founders of Erdigroup, a collection of thriving hotels and businesses across Australia with strong ties to the local community. At the heart of every Erdigroup business, including this one, we celebrate the spirit of ongoing service and generosity via a host of charitable projects and initiatives. Eva and Les met and married in Budapest in 1945, before moving to Australia in 1954. Motivated by a joint love of hard work and great determination, the duo set out to improve their own lives, and the lives of those around them. The pair founded the Eva and Les Erdi Humanitarian Charitable Foundation and are behind philanthropic activities that have touched countless lives and endeared them to so many. Throughout his life, Les was honoured with numerous awards including an Order of Australia medal in 2008, an Honorary Doctorate of Laws for medical research from Monash University in 2010, and as Victorian Senior of the Year in 2011. Eva and Les continued their dedicated efforts until their passings. They will forever be remembered as true visionaries, whose passion for change inspired those around them greatly.
22
The Erdi legacy of giving continues to live on in local and international communities. For more information about the foundation and the projects we support, please visit erdifoundation.com.
WHERE TO STAY The Swanston Hotel, Grand Mercure 195 Swanston St | 1300 650 315 A 4.5 star hotel on Swanston Street in the very heart of Melbourne’s CBD. The Swanny, as it is more affectionately known, is surrounded by the city’s most popular business and shopping precincts, theatres, galleries, bars and restaurants. theswanstonhotel.com.au @swanstonhotel Mercure Welcome Melbourne 265 Little Bourke St | 1300 654 966 This 3.5 star hotel accommodation, provides guests with comfort, convenience, and greatvalue, budget rates that leave you more to spend on Melbourne city’s many attractions! mercurewelcome.com.au @mercurewelcomemelbourne
Ibis Melbourne Little Bourke St 600 Little Bourke St | (03) 9672 0000 Great value, great location and great service make Ibis Melbourne, Little Bourke Street a very popular hotel choice. This 3 star hotel is clean and affordable with comfortable guest rooms and comes complete with amenities to ensure guests have a pleasant stay. ibis.com/3030 @ibismelbournelittlebourkest Rydges St Kilda 35-37 Fitzroy St, St Kilda | 1300 884 373 This boutique-style hotel offers an inner Melbourne location with a beach town feel. Located in the heart of Melbourne’s iconic St Kilda and is just a few steps from St Kilda Beach, Luna Park and Acland Street. rydges.com/stkilda @Rydges
23
We Know Melbourne @weknowmelbourne
THE MINI MAG - ISSUE 8 : Spring 2017 Illustrated by Aran Haydec