We Know Melbourne - Issue 6 by We Know Melbourne

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AUT UMN 2017 THE MINI MAG - ISSUE 6 : Autumn 2017

Contents Intro •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 3 Melbourne CBD Guide• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 4 Melbourne's Best Autumn Events• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 5 Interview: Melbourne International Comedy Festival • 6 Melbourne Autumn Fashion •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 8 Melbourne Fun Facts • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 10 What to do on Rainy Melbourne Days •• • • • • • • • • • • • 11 Brunswick Guide • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 12 North Melbourne Guide • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 13 A Day Out to The Dandenong Ranges •• • • • • • • • • • • • 14 Best Places to Buy A Mother's Day Gift • • • • • • • • • • • 16 Interview: For the Love of Dogs •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 18 Best Gardens to Enjoy Autumn Colours

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From We Know Melbourne : Welcome to our sixth 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. Autumn is full of colours and romantic vibes in Melbourne, so in this edition we gathered together some of Melbourne's finest gardens. Venture to them to watch the colours change, run through fallen leaves or lay down and make your own leaf angel. If you love to laugh then the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is for you. We had a chat with some of this year's featured comedians to give you some insider's tips. With Mother's Day fast approaching, our list of ways to spoil your Mum this year will help you make her day extra special. So as we say goodbye to summer and feel the temperature drop, get ready for the excitement of AFL kick off, some fun indoor activities and fabulous autumn fashion. Have any questions, recommendations or tips? Send us an email at ask@weknowmelbourne.com.au

Melbourne CBD Guide

1. The Hardware Societe | 120 Hardware St An oldie but a goodie. Beware, there is always a line especially on the weekends, but trust us, it is worth the wait. Their Lobster Eggs Benedict is irresistible. 2. Operator 25 | 25 Wills St A perfect brunch spot to enjoy a great cup of coffee and an Asian fusion breakfast in a heritage listed building. 3. Naked Espresso Bar | 390 Little Bourke St Grab a fresh brew and people watch from your seat by the window with a tasty toasted sandwich in hand and retro music playing in the background. 4. Five Plus Smoothie | 265 Little Lonsdale St You can never go wrong with a healthy and refreshing drink. Everything is blended up fresh, so you won’t find any powered, frozen nor pre-juiced nasties here. 5. Ombra Salumi Bar | 76 Bourke St A casual and fun Italian eatery. Enjoy thin-based pizzas, irresistible salumis and formaggio from the menu, plus their extensive, six-page long drink list! 6. Milkcow | 287 Swanston Street We believe it’s never too cold for some organic soft-serve ice cream. We love their ‘Avalanche’, a double shot espresso with fairy floss on top! 7. Poked | Shop 3, 551 Little Lonsdale St A fresh, tasty (and healthy) combo of Hawaiian and Japanese food. This is the perfect place for lunch, guaranteed to freshen up your day. LATEST HOTSPOT 8. Seoulja Boy | 9/108 Bourke St A new kid on the block, this hip hop themed modern Korean restaurant is perfect for a night out. The restaurant makes a mean bibimbap - Korean rice bowl. For the full We Know Melbourne CBD Guide visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/melbournecbdguide/

Melbourne's Best Autumn Events For some, Autumn is the most beautiful season in Melbourne. Watch the leaves turn red, yellow and orange like the city is turning into a magic wonderland. Here’s our pick of the best autumn events to enjoy as the colours change.

1. Formula 1 Grand Prix | 23-26 March Based at Albert Park, the race will start a week later than previous years. There have been several rule changes to the cars, which we hope means the cars will be the fastest they have ever been, set to shave off a possible 5 sec per lap compared to previous years. You can purchase either a single day pass or a weekend pass, which also includes the V8 Supercars and Porsche Celebrity Race. 2. International Comedy Festival | 29 March - 23 April The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is back in town and will feature everyone’s favourite comedians from around the world, plus familiar local acts. Many local comedians test out their festival material in the weeks leading up to the big event in smaller, local venues with very cheap ticket prices. We recommend following your favourite comedians on Facebook to see when these shows are available.

3. Food and Wine Festival | 31 March - 9 April Give your taste buds a little treat, and head along to the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, presented by Bank of Melbourne. This celebration of deliciousness features special events, tastings and more in the city’s restaurants, laneways, pop ups and basements, and also spills into regional Victoria’s wineries, farms, olive groves, restaurants and more! 4. D og Lovers Show | 5 - 7 May If you are looking for a “pawsome” time, then Melbourne Dog Lovers Show is the event for you this May. It is held at the Carlton Royal Exhibition Building located next to the Melbourne museum. A fun and informative event which showcases 600+ beautiful dogs, over 250 exhibitors, Hero Dogs, grooming advice and celebrity vets. Win a double pass on us by entering our competition - weknowmelbourne.com. au/2017/02/13/the-happiest-place-on-earth 5. AFL | From 23 March Get your team scarf on, beer in your right hand and chips on the left, and get ready for one of the most exciting events of the year! From March to September August, Melbourne is extra vibrant with very vocal football fans around. So enjoy watching a game or two at the MCG and be in the centre footy fever.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival with Gillian Cosgriff, Nadine Sparks and Evan Hocking The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is returning in 2017 with a spectacular line up of local and international performers in over 500 shows – running for four, hilariously entertaining weeks. We caught up with three local performers, and got their thoughts on the festival, tips on how best to enjoy it and the inside oil on their upcoming shows….

Gillian Cosgriff – 8 Songs in 8 Weeks What about the MICF gets you excited? Seeing as many shows as I can, especially new ones. This year I'm hanging out to see Liam Ryan, Double Denim, and Alice Tovey. Also, eating my own body weight in potato cakes. What’s your top three recommendations for visitors to Melbourne to get the most out of MICF? 1. Take a chance on a show you've never heard of before - a new venue, a new genre of comedy, someone who flyers you in the street. 2. Go to the Festival Club to see a bunch of comedians in one show. It's a great way to find a comedian you like and then go see their full show. 3. Make a night of it! I'm big on pre-show dumplings and post-show whiskey. What should audiences expect from your show? My show is musical comedy - it's me and my piano, singing songs and doing stand-up. There is also a great story about an abandoned Russian cruise ship, if you're into that kind of thing... What do you do during the festival when you are not performing? I see as many shows as I can. I eat everything. And sleep until midday. My parents are so proud. Gillian’s show, 8 Songs in 8 Weeks is on at The Butterfly Club, March 29 - April 9, 8:30pm. Tickets: www.thebutterflyclub.com

Evan Hocking – The Morning After What is your favorite part about MICF? Stressing about getting people into my show and constantly thinking “Is this good enough?” How would you recommend visitors to Melbourne get the most out of MICF? Plan ahead so you can see a few shows in the one night. My show’s on at 7pm at Hotel Barkly and "The Suburban Footballer" is on at 8.30pm at the same venue. You’re welcome!!!!!

Nadine Sparks – Teacher What do you love most about MICF? Melbourne is most alive during MICF, you can feel the endorphins in the air from people getting the opportunity to sit in a room and watch people make them laugh. Also, comedy is totally my thing, so as a performer it is amazing to be in a festival that attracts such hysterical people. What are your top tips for getting the most out of MICF for visitors to Melbourne? Speak to people flyering, many of whom are promoting their own shows or shows they are working on in some capacity. Obviously they are hoping you will come to their show, but for the most part they know the scene and will be able to advise visitors on different acts and who might be useful to see. The ticket booth can do similar, but they only manage some artist’s tickets.

What should audiences expect from your show? Very little, then they won’t be disappointed… no it’s about waking up “The Morning After” with no recollection of the night before. During the show I detail one of the biggest stuff ups in my life. What do you do during the festival when you are not performing? Refer to question 1 and try and see a few other shows and get drunk and wake up “The Morning After” with no recollection of the night before. Evan’s show, The Morning After, is showing at The Hotel Barkley in St Kilda, 7.00pm, March 29-April 23 (5.30om on Sundays). Tickets are available on the door or via the Comedy Festival website.

What should audiences expect from your show? I am fast paced, quick witted and I love physical comedy. My show is the very best bits of my 15 years as a high school teacher. There are lots of really entertaining stories. There is something for everyone, but it will not be a PG show. What do you do during the festival when you are not performing? It’s a great opportunity for me to hang out with some people I only see during MICF. I tend to spend a lot of time seeing shows and dancing the night away with other artists. I do spots at showcases and I also do an improv show called ‘Improv Against Humanity’ which is at The Tickle Pit. I also try to look after my health, with good food and exercise. Nadine Sparks show ‘Teacher’ is on at Tasma Terrace 10th -13th of April and 18th -22nd of April tickets on sale through Trybooking.

Melbourne Autumn Fashion It’s no secret that Melbourne is the city that is able to curb your craving for a great fashion fix. From the impressive global brands to local designers, shopping arcades and eccentric laneways, no wonder it has been dubbed as the fashion capital of Australia. These are great places where we can go to relax and recharge from all the retail therapy. With Autumn amongst us now, we get to immerse ourselves into the latest drops in stores and have some fun playing with slightly warmer fashion options. Here are Cecil Peco, a fashion guru's top 5 picks that encompass the shopping experience that Melbourne is best known and loved for. These choices also stock some items to keep on your radar when planning your cooler weather wardrobe to ensure that you tackle the change of season in style. Alpha 60 | Chapter House L2/195 Flinders Lane This is a Melbourne based label that really embraces the city’s uniform (basically anything black). They offer a minimal approach that is combined with some unique silhouettes. Here, you are bound to find wear to death wardrobe basics, as the label is well known for its fresh take on classic styles and cuts. Apart from all the incredible black pieces they currently have, one design that caught my eye was the Meral Dress in Navy. It has a flattering halterneck style and front panels that cross over. Navy is a great neutral to incorporate into your autumn wardrobe as it's not as harsh as black yet it's versatile enough to go with everything. Alpha 60’s collections have not only been popular with Melbournians, they have had showrooms in both Paris and New York and their designs have been added to the “200 Years of Australian Fashion” exhibition showcased in the National Gallery of Victoria.

INCU | Shop ACL12, Albert Coates Lane, Q.V Building You know you have stumbled across something really special when you can find Acne Studios, Rag & Bone, Alexander Wang and Comme des Garçons all under one roof. In fact, this store is home to over 100 selected local and international labels. Incu (which is actually short for “Incubator”), is a unique store that caters to both genders and they have a collection of carefully curated pieces that will up your fashion cred in a heartbeat. One item that I’m itching to get my hands on is the Acne Studios Jensen Boots in Black Grain. These full leather boots have a stacked heel, angular elasticated panel and a thin metal detail on the toe. The freshly refurbished store which boasts furniture made by Melbourne carpenters Arteveneta, has a no pressure shopping environment and you’re sure to be greeted with a friendly face as you walk through the doors.

Lenko | Shop 5, 37 Swanston Street | Corner Flinders Lane & Swanston St This is a quirky boutique located in the beautiful Cathedral Arcade. Here you will discover hard to find limited edition pieces from local brands. The majority of their jewelery is handcrafted and there is an extensive range of bits and bobs that you never knew you wanted. You’re sure to find something special that reflects you here. The Lenko Animal sweaters were incredible and are a cult hit for a reason. The best part is that they are entirely locally made and combine fun with functionality.

The Bag Department | thebagdepartment.com.au Although this one technically isn’t a store but rather a website, it still deserves a special mention. This was a fresh Melbourne concept that really got me excited. A handbag is one of the most personal accessories a woman needs. We carry it around with us everyday. Finding the right one that is not only fashionable but functional is very important. This is where the Bag Department steps in, they give customers freedom to customise their own handbags by choosing from a variety of colours, leather textures and even the hardware. This makes the process of committing to a new hand bag a whole lot easier. Personally, I’m in love with the Light Gold Black Chloe slouch tote- it’s a smart trans-seasonal style that has a spacious interior too, can’t forget to mention the stylish removable tassel that can double as a keychain. Somewhere Store | Ll 2, Royal Arcade 314 Little Collins Street Have your shopping expectations exceeded at the Somewhere Store. They are a pioneering retailer of fashion that supports local and international talents. They are located in the iconic Royal Arcade and the store really captures a loft style space. This store is ahead of the rest when it comes to picking up pieces that are well-made, unique and have a Scandinavian flare to them without having to experience any price sticker shock. The upstairs light-filled space also includes a small gallery that showcases impressive emerging local artists. The one piece that I really wanted to add to my Autumn wardrobe rotation was the Dr. Denim Cropa Cabana Jeans in Black. They are a tight, high waist crop jean that will go perfect with any brogue style shoe.

Bassike | 1-3 Rankins Lane This is my go to store for effortless basics that have flattering proportions. The label started in 2006 and it has grown into a trendy range of softly tailored clothes. Their philosophy is to achieve highend design and construction with a commitment to sustainable manufacturing. In true Melbourne fashion, you can find this store down a hidden narrow brick laneway across from Manchester Press Café. Uniting the laid back Australian beach style with simple Japanese design, Bassike will be sure to give your everyday essentials a refreshing upgrade. The Cropped Drawstring Hooded coat in the colour Antique is a standout piece in their new Autumn/Winter collection. Although the fabric is made in Italy, this coat is made in Australia, making it just that little bit more special.

Written by guest writer Cecil Peco | Fashion, coffee and dog enthusiast Follow her on Instagram to see her adventures in the world’s most livable city @cecilpeco

Melbourne Fun Facts 1. Vegemite was invented in Melbourne in 1922 after months of laboratory tests by food technologist Dr. Cyril P Callister. In fact, Australia’s iconic spread is still only manufactured at the Vegemite factory in Fisherman’s Bend, Port Melbourne. 2. Melbourne’s famous tramway system is the largest outside Europe and the fourth largest in the world. 3. Before Melbourne was called Melbourne, it was named Batmania by John Batman, a colonist farmer from Tasmania who landed in Port Philip Bay in May 1835. Source: http://www.nma.gov.au/ interactives/batmania/shell.html

4. Melbourne was the capital city of Australia between 1901 and 1927. 5. Melbourne’s CBD has five of the six tallest buildings in Australia, the tallest of which is the Eureka Tower at 297.3-metre (975 ft). 6. The MCG holds the world record for highest attendance at a cricket match, with a total of 91,092 spectators watching the first day of The Ashes test against England in 2013.

Image Credit: Emily Godfrey

What to do on Rainy Melbourne Days Yes, we know how annoying it can be when it is pouring outside in Melbourne, but in the most liveable city, you always have something to do. We have got you covered this Autumn when the rain comes knocking on the door.

1. Hit the Arcade Games up at Bartronica Bar | 335 Flinders Ln This place will take you back to your teenage years on a rainy day (if you grew up in the 90’s), enjoy drinks from the bar whilst playing your favourite arcade games from the 80’s and 90’s . Classic games on offer include the original Mortal Kombat, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and our favourite, the Simpsons. Wizards can also test their skills on the bar’s collection of pinball machines that date back to the seventies. 2. Go Indoor Rock Climbing | 4/8 Franklin St Not only will this activity keep you out of the elements, but it’s fun AND you’ll get fit at the same time. Bring a friend and put your friendship to the test by allowing them to be your harness operator and bring you safely back to the ground. There are multiple climbing walls starting from beginners to the experienced, so you don’t need to be an expert. 3. Lock Your Mates in a Dark Room | 245 Little Lonsdale St Imagine being locked into a room and it’s up to you and your team to solve puzzles, riddles and conundrums to free yourself before time runs out. Sound fun? There are now quite a few places in Melbourne which offer Escape rooms with various themes, and most have food and drinks available from the bar, so you can make an afternoon out of it. Our favourite Escape Rooms are at Strike, QV.

4. Get some Culture at the Museum | 11 Nicholson St Melbourne Museum is located in the beautiful Carlton gardens next to IMAX theatre. Its exhibitions include the history of the Victorian Gold Rush era, Bushranger escapades, (including Ned Kelly), walls of wildlife, flora, fauna and insect displays, and our favourite, the most famous horse in the world, Phar Lap who is on display. Our tip – check out his massive heart. 5. Shop til you Drop in the City | 211 La Trobe St Did you know you can move from Melbourne Central, through Emporium, and onto the Myer Centre and David Jones without getting wet due to the fabulous interconnectivity of these three shopping meccas. Your wallet may not love it, but you’ll while away hours getting retail therapy and staying dry.

Brunswick Guide

Jump on tram number 19 and be there in 30 minutes

1. B.east | 80 Lygon St We love eating their burgers while tuning into local live bands throughout the week. They have creative menu nights, which changes week to week. 2. The Mess Hall | 400 Sydney Rd For cocktail and boutique beer lovers, they have specialty beers on tap and in-house created cocktails which will be paired with their food. 3. Hellenic Republic | 434 Lygon St Traditional Greek restaurant owned by Master Chef, George Calombaris. The best place to have a big feast and some ouzos of which they have 16 different varieties! 4. The Green Refectory | 115 Sydney Rd Made with local produce and catered to all dietary requirements. Its vegan chocolate cake and gluten and flour free cakes are our favourites. 5. Pachamama Wholefoods | 74-78 Sydney Rd Organic and locally grown produce in a very fair prices. Enjoy your weekly grocery shopping while having a cuppa at their cafe in store. 6. Round & Round Records | 556 Sydney Rd Get lost in the music-land where they stock a bit of everything - reggae, disco, hop-hop and more! 7. Two Little Pigs Charcuterie & Grind | 146 Sydney Rd Love some pork on your fork? This is the place to be where the meat is cooked to perfection. Order their "Two Little Pigs" for brunch, because it will not disappoint. 8. Kuwaii | 37-39 Glenlyon Rd High quality fashion that is made locally in Melbourne and owned by Brunswick-based designer - Kristy Barber. For the full We Know Melbourne Brunswick Guide visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/brunswick-street-guide/

North Melbourne Guide

Jump on tram number 57 and be there in 10 minutes

1. Town Hall Hotel | 33 Errol St Epic parmas and no-frills bevvies served in a bar which hasn’t changed since 1970. The walls are covered with rock memorabilia, and there's a cozy beer garden out the back. 2. Mork Chocolate Brew House | 150 Errol St This unassuming, slightly hidden little gem serves smoked, chilled and infused liquid chocolate varieties of the best kinds. Try the vanilla-bean sparkling water. Delish. 3. The Comics Lounge | 1/26 Errol St Home to many local comedians for quality shows seven nights a week, it also pays host to larger names from time to time, who are testing out new material. 4. The Kathmandu Cottage | 349 Victoria St Great value and BYO, the quality of the Nepalese cuisine at this restaurant means you have a truly gorgeous feed, then still have cash for a night cap at a nearby bar.

5. Prudence | 368 Victoria St Quirky, cozy, like your crazy Nan’s house (who maybe was a groupie in the 70’s), this two-level plus beer garden bar is a great place to share a Coopers Green with mates. 6. Elceed | 610 Queensberry St A cute breakfast café that supplies crocheted rugs for its outdoor patrons, their pea and parmesean mash and house granola are the reasons we get up in the morning. 7. North Melbourne Books | 546 Queensberry St You won’t be able to walk past this old-fashioned store and not delve into the wormhole and scent of books, glorious books, we dare you not to buy something. 8. Little Africa | 358 Victoria St Traditional African cuisine - delicious meats, curries and vegetables served on a huge pancake to share with friends. The scent alone when you get inside is amazing. For the full We Know Melbourne North Melbourne visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/north-melbourne-guide/

A Day out to the Dandenong Ranges A Melbourne Autumn brings with its fabulous colours as the leaves change from green to their warmer golden hues. Escape the madness of the city and head to a beautiful forest to witness this change while you hike up the mountains at the 1000 Steps 11:40am

8:30am

9:30am

11:30am

Scones For Breakfast Start your day right with some scones and home made jam at The 1000 Steps Café. Grab a coffee and enjoy your breakfast while surrounded by the beautiful forest. If scones aren’t your favourite treat, you can choose something from their fresh food cabinet or have something made to order. Kokoda Track Memorial Walk This is the best way to work off those carbs from your breakfast indulgence. Submerge yourself in the greenery, breathe in the fresh air and be inspired by nature. Don’t forget to bring some snacks on the day, the top of the mountain is the perfect place for an outdoor picnic. Remember to take the steps up the Kokoda Track and take the Lyrebird Track down. It will go easier on your knees. Miss Marple’s Tearoom By now you should be hungry for some delicious food. We highly recommend Miss Marple’s Tearoom, which is only 30 minutes drive from 1000 Steps. Miss Marple’s Tearoom is famous for its scones, but their homemade soup and pies are also irresistible. The restaurant is very cozy and it is hard to get a table, however it is definitely worth the wait. Everything about the restaurant takes you back to your Grandma’s place.

Sassafras Take a stroll around the town while waiting for your table at Miss Marple’s Tearoom. Walk in to SOAK and take in the relaxing aroma from their candles, soaps, essential oils and body lotion. Then you can drop next door to Cream at Sassafras and buy some gourmet food and boutique Australian produce. They have a “try before you buy” policy, so you can never go wrong with your purchase. Before heading back to Miss Marple’s Tearoom for lunch, head into Tea Leaves where you’ll find yourself in their tea house, selling anything tea related - from quirky cat design teapots to antique salt and pepper shakers.

1:30pm

William Rickette Sanctuary Walk into an Aboriginal art fairy land. Only 15 minutes drive away from Sassafras, this free admittance sanctuary will surprise you with its beautiful and interesting sculptures. The Sanctuary is the perfect place to find your inner peace whilst also appreciating the artist’s philosophy and skills.

2:30pm

Puffing Billy Railway Dangle your legs off the carriage of this old-fashioned steam train while it takes you through the temperate rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges. It is a great way to explore the area with gorgeous sights of hills and lakes. Everything will take you back in time, from their uniform to the station design.

5:00pm

Kalorama Park Still have some energy in you after your big day? Why not enjoy the scenery from Kalorama Park. This lookout provides one of the finest views of the Dandenong Ranges, surrounding foothills and Yarra Ranges in the distance. It’s the perfect place to watch the sun set over the mountains.

Best Places to Buy A Mother's Day Gift Spoil Mum this Mother's Day and give her a gift that she really deserves. Here are our top picks in Melbourne to find great gifts for Mum as a way to say thank you.

1. Miss Fox Day Spa | Ll 1-3, 285 Little Collins St Let Mum escape reality and enter a world of relaxation at Miss Fox Day Spa, a three-story salon located on Little Collins Street. Mum ought to feel glamorous and well-pampered, with a champagne and cocktail bar, plush, velvet couches and a full range of therapeutic and cosmetic services, Miss Fox offers a truly unique experience. 2. Madame Valentine | QV Market, 111 Victoria St For something a little fun and feminine, Madame Valentine, just outside the Queen Victoria Market has the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. This gorgeous boutique stocks all things pink, floral and lacy. From teapots, to wallets, clothes and quilts, Madame’s sure to have what you’re looking for. 3. Embiggen Books | 197-203 Little Lonsdale St Next to the State Library, you’ll find Embiggen Books, an independent bookshop that takes pride in their great selection of hard-to-find books. With topics ranging from science and philosophy to fiction and children’s books, Embiggen is full of literary treasures.

4. The Garden of Eden Nursery | 365 Ferrars St, Albert Park For the Mum with the green thumb, a gift from The Garden of Eden Nursery would be a welcome surprise. Help her transform any space with a little greenery or compliment her garden with rustic and vintage pieces and homewares. Situated in the old Albert Park Railway Station, this nursery is a wonderful place to relax amongst nature after shopping. 5. The Little Wine Shop | South Melbourne Market With over 30 years of experience and knowledge, Anna, the owner can help you pick a delicious local wine that will satisfy even the fussiest of palates. The Little Wine Shop only trades at The South Melbourne Market, but don’t let the name fool you, they stock more than just wine. 6. The Rose Street Artists’ Market | 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy Here is where you’ll find original and intricate gifts, handmade by local artists and designers. Here you will discover unique and often interesting sculptures, paintings, jewelery and quirky designs for reasonable prices.

Soul CafE... Irresistible

Breakfast : 7am - 2pm weekdays | 8am - 3pm weekends Lunch & Dinner : Served from 11:30am til late 195 Swanston St, Melbourne Victoria, Australia 3000

Interview - Melbourne for Dog Lovers with Alex Mihardja and Max Oscar For the past 5 years, the Dog Lovers Show Melbourne, held at Royal Exhibition Building has been a great success. It is a place where you get to meet over 600 beautiful dogs and meet the exhibitors to get a deeper understanding on how to better-train your dog and be a great dog owner. We had a chance to interview Alex, a city dwelling dog owner and his dog Max, a mini dachshund. In the interview he shares his knowledge on what city life is like with a fur baby. Let Alex tell you what it is like owning a dog in Melbourne CBD.

2. Where are some of the best parks in Melbourne to bring dogs to? I don’t drive, so I have to make the most of the nearby parks. Thankfully, there are a few within walking distance, and they are all excellent to take dogs for a stroll. Flagstaff, Fitzroy and the Botanical Gardens, just to name a few. Max is a true city dog, he is not afraid of people or noises and you can always see him wagging his tail away on Bourke or Collins Street. 3. Any recommended dog treats or dog health products? I kid you not, Max goes wackos for Schmackos. I can almost get him to do anything when I have a strip of Schmackos in my hand.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and Max? I am a city-dweller and I love dogs. I used to own an English Staffordshire Terrier (Staffy) named Indy many years ago. I was on the look-out for another dog after Indy, and I had in mind to have another Staffy or maybe a French Bulldog. So I managed to find cute puppies of both breeds, but for some reason I just wasn’t persuaded by those puppies, that they were the right one for me. One Sunday afternoon, like love at firstsight, I saw Max (a Miniature Dachshund), he was the runt of the litter, I didn’t see any of his siblings, but I just knew he was it, and the rest is history

6. Knowing Melbourne weather, it is always changing; where do you take Max for a walk when it’s pouring outside? It is like having a child when you own a dog, everything takes planning. I check the weather forecast every day and pre-plan in my head when the best time is to take Max for his walks, when the pavement is not too hot, or when it’s not too cold. When it’s pouring outside I don’t take him out for a walk, instead I wear him out inside by playing games with him (tug-a-war is his favourite).

4. What advice would you give to new dog owners? Understand that your expectations in owning a dog is nothing like reality. It requires a lot of hardwork, patience and let’s just say…more patience! I have also invested in a one-on-one session with a dog-whisperer to help me better train Max. Living in a city apartment I need Max to be on his best behavior - no barking or jumping onto the sofa (unless he’s invited) and knowing what areas are off-limits (i.e: my bedroom). Remember to be consistent with your training. Max will only eat food from his bowl, and I don’t give him any human food. Occasionally, he will give me the cute puppy-eye look hoping to get a piece of my chicken, but he knows he won’t get any, and 5 seconds later he turns away happily to play with his toys.

7. Tell us what is a perfect Melbourne Sunday for you and Max? I take Max with me to most of my weekend brunches and lunches wherever possible, and when the weather permits. Generally, my Sundays with Max involve a morning walk to grab some fresh flowers at our regular florist and a coffee from Padre Coffee at Queen Vic Market. I will then take him to Flagstaff Gardens on the way home from the market. By the time we get home, he is normally so exhausted, he climbs into his day bed for a snooze. I’d then tidy up the apartment and run some errands. I will watch some DVDs or shows on Netflix throughout the day and Max would nestled himself next to me. Later in the day, I’ll take him to the Federal Coffee Palace for another coffee or wine and he’ll be sitting on my lap happily crowd watching. Occasionally people will stop by and ask if they can pat Max, which he absolutely loves, he’s a sucker for attention. Bless his short legs and long ears! 8. Finally, is Max currently single? He’s quite partial to his teddy bear “Kong”, but apart from Kong, he’s certainly single and enjoying his singlehood. #likefatherlikeson.

5. What beaches can you take dogs to in Melbourne, and has Max been to one yet? I know that Port Melbourne beach is quite dogfriendly, as a couple of my friends take their pooches there. Sadly, Max is yet to go to one, though I know he loves water and being caught in the rain once or twice never seemed to bother him.

Best Gardens to Enjoy Autumn Colours Autumn is the perfect time to mosey through Melbourne’s parks and gardens in search of alluring Autumn colour displays. Here are some places where you can wander around the best landscapes glowing with reds, oranges, yellows and greens, feel the leaves crunch beneath your feet and enjoy some time in the fresh, crisp Autumn air.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne You’ll almost forget the hustle and bustle of this busy city when you stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Known for its diverse range of botany, sweeping lawns and hidden treasures, the gardens are a must see in Autumn. As the seasons change and the many deciduous oak trees begin to explode with colour, the gardens are transformed into a vibrant sea of red, yellow and orange. If you’re feeling inspired and want to experience all that the gardens have to offer, take advantage of the Autumn Discovery walking tour.

2. Fitzroy Gardens and Conservatory One of Melbourne’s most historic gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, also happens to be one of Melbourne’s most beautiful gardens in Autumn. Pathways lined with Elm trees become spectacular sights, covered in golden leaves that make you want to skip and dance amongst them. On nice days, most park benches will be taken by locals and tourists alike, enjoying the colourful display. Within the gardens, you’ll find the delightful Conservatory, built in 1930, a fairy tree and Captain Cooks Cottage. We recommend allowing yourself a few hours to explore.

3. Cloudehill Gardens & Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling up for an adventure, Cloudehill Gardens in the Dandenong Ranges is our favourite outer city garden to visit. Less than an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive from the heart of Melbourne, you will find some of the most breathtaking gardens, full of colour and inspiration. Meandering through twenty garden compartments, you will fall in love with the contrasting foliage and crimson reds. The gardens are ablaze with colour in Autumn and well worth the $10 admission fee. For a full day adventure, we would recommend lunch at the Seasons Restaurant overlooking the gardens and then a wander through the nearby Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

4. Carlton Gardens The Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens is the perfect place to sit down and relax, surrounded by an array of Autumn colours. With several picturesque fountains and ponds and many mature European trees, the gardens come to life with glorious golds, reds and greens of Autumn. The Carlton Gardens in Autumn must be one of the most photogenic spots in Melbourne with newlyweds choosing the gardens as their preferred photoshoot location, even on those rainy days 5. Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show For an explosion of colour, landscape design and pretty smelling flowers, the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show is where you want to be. Returning for its 22nd year, the spectacular event features the best landscape and floral talent that Australia has to offer, alongside many gardening stalls and exhibitions. Held at The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens from March 29th to April 2nd, the event is gearing up to be the biggest yet. Garden lovers can pre-purchase tickets for $29.90 online or at the gate on the day..

Written by Kichelle McFarlane

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