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WINTER
THE MINI MAG - ISSUE 7 : Winter 2017 Illustrated by Florence Parmentier
CONTENTS 14 Interview:
Florence, illustrator
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Melbourne CBD Guide
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Winter Date Ideas
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Melbourne Winter Events
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Interview: Cabaret Festival
Graffiti Off The Grid
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Family Winter Activities
Winter Recipe by Head Chef, Prem
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Melbourne Winter Markets
FROM
WKM 20 17
Interview: Writer Festival
Winter, that time of the year when we get our coats out and our woollen beanies on. It's time to grab a cup of warm coffee and discover what we have gathered together for you.
Melbourne Secrets
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Welcome to our seventh 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.
Interview: Melbourne Buskers
Melbourne Cafes
In this edition we highlighted some hot spots for you to take your date this winter and if you are a coffee drinker like us, we have created a list of our favourite cafes around Melbourne which you will love. Have you also noticed the beautiful illustration on the cover? We recently collaborated with a Belgium artist named Florence. Get to know her a little more further on in this edition. We also got an opportunity to talk to Jessica Alice, the Project Manager at Melbourne’s Writers Festival. We kept the best for last, and planned a day out to the Mornington Peninsula for you, because it's definitely time for a hot spring dip. So, read on and enjoy our winter edition.
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Have any questions, recommendations or tips? Send us an email at ask@ weknowmelbourne.com.au
A Day out to the Mornington
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Where to Stay
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MELBOURNE CBD GUIDE 1. Aqua S | 16 Red Cape Ln Get your dose of vitamin sea (salt soft serve) at Aqua S! The flavours are changed every two weeks, so you’ll never be bored for choice. We love their ‘mochi’ topping. 2. Hochi Mama | 11-15 Liverpool St Hochi Mama has a brilliant 2-course + drink lunch deal available daily for less than twenty bucks. Our favourite is the rice vermicelli noodles, they are packed with some serious flavours. 3. Belleville | Globe Alley Walk down a laneway for some honey glazed chicken like a true Melburnian! The perfect place for a Friday catch up. We love their Fat Mac Three Cheese Truffle Mac n Cheese. 4. White Mojo | 115 Hardware St The food, service and coffee at this cafe in iconic Hardware Lane are all on point. We recommend trying their Smoked Salmon, it’s a little somewhat magical. 5. Heartbreaker | 234A Russell St This slightly fancy dive bar has a banging rock soundtrack, around 60 different whiskies, 4 pre-bottled classic cocktails and is a great place to start a classic night with friends 6. Union Electric Bar | 3 Heffernan Ln A semi-hidden bar in Chinatown where their cocktails are delish. Our favourite is their refreshing cocktail ’Them Apples,’ best imbibed whilst enjoying their Latin-jazz tunes. 7. Om Nom Kitchen & Dessert Bar | 187 Flinders Ln A fine dining dessert experience with an emphasis on beautiful, imaginative plating. The waiters are happy to talk you through the flavours and inspiration behind each plate. LATEST HOTSPOT 8. Calia Emporium | Shop 8, Level 3/287 Lonsdale St Shop until you drop at Emporium Melbourne, then explore local and international delicacies in this fine dining café, featuring dishes created by a Michelin Star Chef.
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For the full We Know Melbourne CBD Guide visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/melbournecbdguide/
The coldest time of the year in Melbourne is here, and we know just how you can make the most of the cold weather this year. Here’s our pick of the best winter events...
MELBOURNE'S BEST WINTER EVENTS 1. Melbourne International Film Festival: 3 - 20 August Or as we love to call it MIFF, the festival screens the best of the best in awardwinning international films at multiple venues throughout Melbourne, plus offers talks and workshops with industry experts to enlighten their audiences on the art and execution of film. Find out more at miff.com.au 2. Italian Wine & Food Festival: 25 June This one-day event held at the Royal Exhibition Centre celebrates Italian food, wine and culture. Watch as Italian cooks demonstrate their traditional cooking techniques, taste gourmet cheese and sample over 200 Italian wines. Find out more at italianwinefoodfestival.com.au 3. Melbourne International Singers Festival: 8 - 12 June Held over the Queens Birthday long weekend, this festival brings together talented singers and choirs to work with world-renowned conductors, composers, arrangers and musicians. The event features workshops and concerts at various locations around Federation Square, including a performance from Men Aloud! Find out more at schoolofhardknocks.org.au/ 4. Camellia & Garden Show: 19 - 20 August The largest Camellia show in Victoria, this celebration of floral excellence will have hundreds of varieties on display, floral art competitions, a children section and Devonshire tea for those who crave for a lovely refreshment. Find our more at camelliasvic.org.au 5. Gertrude Street Projection Festival: 21 - 30 July Now in it’s tenth year, this festival lights up the Gertrude Street pocket of the bohemian inner-city suburb of Fitzroy with glorious installations from independent artists. Modern, and abstract with a promise of a fabulous night out. Find out more at gspf.com.au
'Fractures' by Jacob Tolo & Susan Maco Forrester, GSPF 2016. Photo by Bernie Phelan
6. Seinfeld Live: 6 & 8 August Jerry Seinfeld is coming to Melbourne this August as part of his stand up tour. This is the comedian first time Down Under since 1998, so he’ll be sure to sell out Hisense Arena, you’ll need to be quick to book your tickets before they sell out.
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INTERVIEW: For fans of the fun, frivolity and straight out pure talent enjoyment that comes with quality cabaret, this years’ Melbourne Cabaret Festival, now in its eighth year promises to be one that fans of the genre will love. We recently caught up with one of our besties, the fabulous Dolly Diamond, who is this year’s Artistic Director, here’s what she had to say about the Festival... 1. Dolly, how did you feel when you were appointed Artistic Director of the 2017 Melbourne Cabaret Festival? When they first mentioned (it) I think a little bit of wee left me... (It happens) and normally I jump in where angels fear to tread, but this time I actually took a bit of time to think about it. I wanted to be sure I could commit to it and do a good job... but once I said yes I was thrilled. 2. How are you going to make your mark on this year’s festival? It was important to me to make this years’ festival really focused on local Australian talent, there's a wealth of it. We don't have million dollar budgets so I loved looking locally rather than importing talent. 3. We know you can’t have favorites... but any tips for ‘mustsee shows?’ Oh I definitely have favourites, but when it comes to the shows I'd like you to see?...All of them! Dolly’s Show at Chapel off Chapel The Lady is a Tramp, June 27th to July 1st, 9pm
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Melbourne Cabaret Festival
On top of this we were lucky enough to catch up with several of the performers, making their mark on this year’s festival…. Danielle O’Malley - ‘You’re My World - The Cilla Black Story’ 1. What is the inspiration behind your show? Originally it was the music that Cilla Black recorded. Burt Bacharach, Lennon & McCartney - their lyrics and melodies speak to me in a way that current contemporary music doesn't. Then as I started researching for the show and watching Cilla Black's interviews and performances, I fell in love with her spirit and personality. 2. What should the audience expect from your show? The concept behind this show is Cilla Black in concert. Audiences can expect to learn something new about Cilla and other musicians who were around when the Mersey beat began, through entertaining stories being told with the self-deprecating humour that Cilla was famous for - and of course, some wonderful music. 3. What about Cabaret Festival gets you excited? The term cabaret is difficult to define and I love that this festival allows a platform for performers and musicians to perform such a wide variety of works. 4. If you could name one person (dead or alive) who inspired you to get into the performing arts who would that be? Julie Andrews. I watched The Sound of Music on repeat as a child...and sometimes still do. Danielle’s show at Chapel off Chapel 'You're My World - The Cilla Black Story' June 27th - July 1st, 6:30pm.
Jon Jackson - ‘Queen of Broadway – The Ethel Merman Story’ 1. What is the inspiration behind your show? I have always admired Ethel Merman’s unique vocal style, and even mimicked her voice in one of my first successful shows back in 1990. In ‘Bugle Boys’ last year, it was a big challenge to get our three male voices to sound like the Andrews Sisters. One day during rehearsals, the part I was singing was changed, and in order to sing it I went into Ethel’s voice without realising. Our musical director remarked how like her I sounded and so later, I started to experiment with taking it further. This show is the end result of that process. 2. What about the Cabaret Festival gets you excited? The chance to see new shows, whether they are from established acts or newcomers. I love to see things which are entirely new, because they show you the direction Cabaret is taking. 3. How do you recommend people get the most out of the Cabaret Festival? See as many shows as you can over the two weeks. Check out the programme; work out a schedule and pace yourself comfortably. Grab a bite at nearby Chapel Street and make a night of it. 4. What do you do during the festival when not performing? Because my show is on at 7pm, when it finishes, I go and see other shows. I prefer to go and be an audience member, because to save my voice, I can’t go out or chat with friends afterwards. I can relax and enjoy the results of somebody else’s blood sweat and tears. Jon’s show at Chapel off Chapel ‘Queen of Broadway - The Ethel Merman Story' June 21st – 25th, 7pm.
The Melbourne Cabaret Festival runs from Tuesday 20 June to Sunday 2 July at Chapel Off Chapel in Prahran. Check their website for the full program: melbournecabaret.com Tickets via the Melbourne Cabaret website. For the full interviews visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/2017/05/16/cabaret-2017-interview/
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WINTER DATE IDEAS 1. The Town Mouse | 312 Drummond Street, Carlton A super cozy neighborhood nook that specializes in good food, wine and conversation. It offers larger plates and a tasty-cute small plate menu designed for sharing, and so you can “accidently touch hands” across the table. 2. Il Solito Posto | 113 Collins Street, Melbourne Be sure to book in the restaurant (not the bistro), for a romantic, underground Italian dining experience with soft lighting, an excellent wine list and next level, nonintrusive service. This place is just beautiful, the perfect gem to keep up your sleeve for dates and such. 3. Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar | 66 Bourke Street, Melbourne Pure, honest and upfront, Pellegrini’s hasn’t changed since the fifties, because it’s basically perfect. Walk in, grab a seat at the communal bar with your date and don't have that awkward ‘what should we eat moment’ – just order what’s available on the night, leaving you more time for conversation. . 4. Clever Polly’s | 313 Victoria Street, West Melbourne Warm and lovely-looking from the outside, this place is first and foremost, a wine bar, but it’s seasonal 5-course set menu and matched wines means you can just sit, order and get down to the business of getting to know each other without pesky intrusions like decision-making. 5. Luna Park | 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda Wait what now. No, it’s not a restaurant or bar. But if the innocent, idyllic dream of the Coney Island date with fairy floss, oversized stuffed toy prizes, and a shared ice-cream appeal to you, Luna Park is actually a great option. Plus, it’s cold, so extra points because you can snuggle up on the rollercoaster…
Got a cozy winter date coming up and no idea where to go? Swipe right on these awesome options, and nail the possibility of a follow up date.
Photo by Kristoffer Paulsen
For the full romantic dates this winter visit: weknowmelbourne.com.au/2017/05/16/romantic-winter-dates/
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When thinking about underground street art in Melbourne, everyone is quick to mention Hosier Lane, but there are so many more locations to check out in the city than just Hosier. Melbourne is a gigantic labyrinth of creatively adorned laneways, begging to be explored, here are our top picks of some secret laneways that are definitely Insta-worthy.
GRAFFITI OFF THE GRID 1. Caledonian Lane This little laneway situated between Bourke and Lonsdale Street may not be the boldest or most substantial, but you will get to see some unique and odd pieces. Since the Emporium refurbishment, this laneway has slowed down on the graffiti front due to an increased security presense, however that doesn’t stop artists sneaking some in from time to time. 2. ACDC Lane & Duckboard Place Located off Flinders Lane, just steps from Hosier Lane, this laneway is one of the original lanes to embrace and showcase it’s graffiti and street art. Apart from the awesome graffiti, you will also find vintage rock posters that date back to the 70s, 80s and 90s from bands who have played at nearby Cherry Bar along the adjoining brick walls. 3. Cocker Alley Look carefully, and you might just spot some Banksy artwork, the Rats. This is a lesser known laneway but the addition of a Banksy piece has lifted the laneway a little. This laneway is also ever-changing so make sure you check it out regularly. 4. Rutledge Lane Rutledge Lane is the new kid in the town since its blue wall repaint in 2013. This laneway leads right back into Hosier Lane in a small u-shape, and is where all the secret street artists hide. 5. Union Lane It’s location between Bourke and Little Collins Streets makes Union Lane a key attraction for the shoppers of Melbourne visiting Myer. Since the revamp there has been fresh street art popping up every day from local and graffiti artists, it’s a must for all travellers and art enthusiasts. 6. Croft Alley Hidden away in China Town, Croft Alley is a little difficult to find. The artwork here changes daily and it’s the perfect space for street artists to work their magic. We receommend heading down to nearby - The Croft Institute for a drink and then be wowed by the street art as you make you way there.
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WINTER SOUP Winter, the best weather to have a warm soup is here. This year, we are very privileged to have our Executive Chef Prem, at our hotel to sharing his favourite soup recipe with us, which we all can make at home!
by Prem Rasineni ROAST PUMPKIN, COCONUT, CORIANDER SOUP Makes- 10 portions Soup paste ingredients: 2pcs lemon grass 3 kaffir lime leaves 4cm ginger 2 fresh red chillies 5 cloves garlic 4 - tbsp. lemon juice Soup ingredients: 2 kg pumpkin 1 white onion peeled and sliced 4 shallots, peeled and sliced 1 tbsp. cumin seeds 3 litres of vegetable stock 500ml of coconut cream ½ bunch chopped coriander fresh Step 1 Blend all the soup paste ingredients together into a fine paste. Step 2 Peel the pumpkins and cut them into big pieces then roast untill soft, but without browning. Step 3 Heat some oil in a large pot and add cumin seeds, shallots, onions and soup paste, sautÊ for 5 min. Step 4 Add pumpkin and vegetable stock into the pot and let it simmer for 30 min until all ingredients are nice and soft. Step 5 Add fresh chopped coriander into the soup and blend everything together. Step 6 Finish with coconut cream and stir well. Remember to check for seasoning... et viola, serve the soup hot with some crusty bread!
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INTERVIEW: with Prem Rasineni,
Executive Chef at The Swanston Hotel, Grand Mercure 1. Tell us about your journey as a chef Prem. I started as a Kitchen Operations Trainee after finishing my Hotel Management graduation with the Taj group of hotels in India at the age 20. I was assigned to train in different kitchens for 16 months, and it was hard working days with long hours. After working for 2 years, I joined Carnival Cruise lines - Miami, USA as a Commis Chef in 2001 and I worked my way up to an Executive Sous Chef, where I worked with different chefs, made different cuisines and learned a lot while I was exploring the world. I moved to New Zealand in 2008 and worked in 5-star boutique lodges and hotels for about 3 years before moving to Melbourne. My first job in Melbourne was with Crown as a Chef De Cuisine, then I moved to Mantra Hotels after a year and worked there for 3 years before joining The Swanston Hotel in 2014 as an Executive Chef. 2. What is your favourite dish to cook at home? Lamb curry, a recipe which was passed down from my grandmother. I make this dish at least once a week! 3. When did you know becoming a chef was your dream career? When I was studying my hotel management, I did 6 months industrial training as part of the graduation with one of the 5-star hotels in India, and it was that first visit to that a 5-star hotel, I decided to become a chef! 4. Where has this career taken you around the world? I have been to many places like America, around Europe, Mexico, New Zealand and now Australia. 5. How should people stay healthy over this cold winter? Eat well - make sure to eat enough fruit and vegetables. Sleep well - proper sleeps can keep your immune system healthy to fight off colds. Most importantly, stay hydrated and exercise regularly. 6. Lastly, what is the proudest moment you had as a chef? Becoming an Executive Chef and running a successful establishment, but I have proud moments everyday in the culinary journey as a chef.
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INTERVIEW:
with Florence Parmentier
1. Tell us a little about yourself Florence. I have always loved drawing since I was a child. My school notebooks were full of sketches! I also enjoy crafting, knitting, sewing and painting. I then decided to do a bachelors degree in textile design when I was 18 in Brussels, Belgium, which is where I am from. I completed the degree three years later and continued my studies in another degree - Fashion Design. Now I am here in Australia with my partner, exploring and also expanding my sights as an illustrator, before we head over to Asia! 2. Can you tell us where you find your artisitic inspirations in Melbourne? My main source of inspiration is nature and particularly wildlife. I often go to the Botanical Gardens to take pictures of trees, plants and birds. I also visit craft markets when I can, where they have many talented artists from all around the world in Melbourne which is very inspiring. 3. What do you love the most about illustration, and which medium do you enjoy using the most? I like being able to combine different styles and colours, and Melbourne provides me with a wide range of inspiration. I don't really have a preferred medium, I like to mix them up. I use watercolors, pencils, ink and markers in one single illustration. I could use watercolors for the background and pencils for the subject, and so on. I love the freedom that I experience when drawing. I am free to create anything and to mix it with anything. 4. What is your ultimate goal as an illustrator? My goal is to launch my own design studio specializing in textiles when I go back to Belgium. My travels across Australia and Asia will allow me to gather many pictures and sources a lot of of inspiration in that area. 5. Where can we purchase your design? At the moment I am working on building my online store, which will be ready soon. For the meantime, check out my Instaram @abirdintheforest or contact me via email abirdintheforest@hotmail.com
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Melbourne, the city full of artists from around the world and we got a chance to do a collabration with an artist from Belgium, Florence who is passionate about illustration. Her killer drawing talent is inspiring and touching and here is what she's got to say about her talent.
We know how hard it is to entertain the little ones sometimes, especially in this cold weather. Thankfully there is always something on in Melbourne and here are our top pick family activities which we know everyone will love.
FAMILY WINTER ACTIVITIES 1. Wallace & Gromit and friends: The Magic of Aardman – 29th June Celebrating its 40th year, the exhibition reflects the quirky humour and idiosyncratic charm of the British studio from the sketchbooks, concept drawings and storyboards where ideas take shape to the intricate claymations, which both young and old audiences adore. This exhibition opens on 29 June at ACMI, with exclusive viewing of the feature film “Early Man”. 2. Legoland Discovery Centre: Open 7 days a week Visit the ultimate indoor Lego® playground with 12 family attractions and activities including 2 rides, 5 Lego® build, play zones and a 4D cinema. Spot Melbourne’s top attractions made from Lego® and learn building tips from the master model builder workshops. 3. River Rink in Fed Square: 1- 23 July Put on your winter warmers and have a spin around at River Rink - Fed Square! Recharge your energy with some delicious winter warming food and beverages on offer throughout the season. So, come enjoy winter on ice with 45 minutes of amazing fun. 4. Panny’s Philip Island Chocolate Factory Open 7 days a week Celebrate all things chocolate at Panny’s amazing world of chocolate from interactive machines to creating your own chocolate flavour, you will be transported into an unique chocolate wonderland. Once you have toured the factory, sit back and enjoy your Panny’s “chocolaty” treats with a vast range of truffles, bars, clusters, gift boxes and animals! 5. Eureka Skydeck’s Giant Ice Slide: 1 – 23 July The Winter School Holidays will see the heart of Southbank once again transformed into an action packed winter wonderland when Eureka Skydeck present the return of the giant Melbourne Ice Slide for kids, parents and the whole of Melbourne to enjoy. Warm up this winter with an exhilarating journey down the Melbourne Ice Slide! For more information visit www.eurekaskydeck.melbourne.
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Don’t let a little cold deter you – Melbourne artisanal produce and design flourish all year round, with no better proof than that of our winter markets. Pull on your coat, cosy up in a scarf and discover a variety of one of a kind creations, more-ish food and memorable mementos brought together under the canvas umbrellas of Melbourne’s finest.
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MELBOURNE WINTER MARKETS 1. Boho Luxe Market | Federation Square | 9th July Find your next bohemian treasure at Fed Square with a range of clothes, homewares, gifts, children’s wear and accessories. Featuring artisanal and one of a kind pieces, this is the ideal market for those seeking something handmade but still utterly luxurious. 2. Slow Food Melbourne Farmer’s Market | 1 St Heliers St Abbotsford 3067 | 4th Saturday of each month Set in the beautiful grounds of Abbotsford convent, the Slow Food Market is fresh produce at its best. Returning to the values of farmer-to-family purchases, this community driven market is based around no gases, no cold storage and no over processed chemically treated produce. 3. Young Adult and Graphic Novel Book Sale | Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre | 10 June The Kathleen Syme Library storage room is full to bursting, and needs to clear! Find yourself the perfect Winter read (or five), with all Young Adult and Graphic novels at only $1 each, with proceeds supporting the library itself. 4. Winter Pop-up Bars | Stamford Plaza Melbourne | 1 June – 1 September Harry’s Winter pop up bar brings the drinks to you. Keep out of the cold and enjoy a selection of cocktails and classic favorites, no wet feet or ruined hairstyles required. 5. Flemington Racecourse Market | 27 August Enjoy a smorgasbord of delights from all regional areas of Victoria, brought together in the heart of Flemington Racecourse. Peruse a variety of handcrafted homewares, clothing and accessories, and after lunch pick up a cheeky artisanal treat for later.
MELBOURNE SECRETS In a city absolutely brimming with culture - food, drinks, theatre, sport, art, events - it’s never difficult to find something to keep you busy. How do you find something distinctive, something that not everybody has seen, that you can feel proud spreading the word about? 1. Cup of Truth Located in Campbell Arcade, Cup of Truth is exactly this, a hole in the wall firmly focused on producing a quick, brilliant cup of coffee, perhaps complimented with a pastry and a smile. Nothing else. Find out more at www.cupoftruth.com.au/ 2. Marios Café Open since the early 80’s with a focus on quality food and a low-key mood, Marios is an institution that has escaped the noise of the Melbourne foodie crowd. If you like your dinner without a side of bells and whistles, this is the place to be; you always know what you’re going to get from these boys. Find out more at www.marioscafe.com.au/ 3. Soothplayer The Soothplayers have built something truly unique, delivering their trademark Completely Improvised Shakespeare across a number of locations in Melbourne. All material is delivered with the distinctive themes and language of Shakespeare, improvised and often blended with a tip of the hat to our modern lives for a particularly relatable belly laugh. Hunt them down for their next show and prepare for a LOT of side splitting, stomach aching comedy. Find out more at www.soothplayers.com/ 4. Bey Dance An Australia wide dance community dedicated to offering cheeky, fun-filled dance classes based on the iconic songs and choreography of Beyoncé. The ‘Bey Captains’ deliver the instructions in a relaxed, relatable manner everyone can adapt to. Whether you want to do a casual class or a 6 week course, you’ll find something at one of the 6 Melbourne locations. Find out more at www.beydance.com.au/
Written by our guest writer - Jessica Morris. Follow her on Instagram @jmo8588 to see where her writing journey takes her.
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MELBOURNE CAFES our picks this winter
1. Little Rogue | 12 Drewery Ln A cozy hideout full of sweet treats and great coffee, perfect location for matcha lovers! 2. Alice Nivens | Shop 13, Port Phillip Arcade, 228-236 Flinders St Step out of the hectic mayhem of Flinders Street and tumble down the rabbit hole. Alice Nivens is all about baking, liquids and fantasy, brought together through a cheeky menu full of sweet treats. 3. Flipboard | Monash Caulfield Campus Building K, 900 Dandenong Rd Hang out with the cool kids at Flipboard’s new Monash Campus location. Keeping their original vision alive through their use of blonde wood and on brand flip up windows, Flipboard has kept up their healthy food options and incredibly coffee. 4. Matcha Mylkbar | 72A Acland St, St Kilda Enjoy incredible vegan faire with the modern twist of matcha, an incredible powdered green tea touted for its health benefits and gentle energising properties. Grab your bright green burger bun with a Wiz Kaleleafa smoothie. 5. Darling Café | 2 Darling St, South Yarra Sip your juice from lightbulb shaped glasses, match the hue of your latte to your generously iced cupcake, then destroy your teeth and blow your mind on their salted caramel tim tam extravaganza. #noregrets. 6. Penta Elsternick | 28 Riddell Parade Elsternwick Penta is the King of contrast- while the moody hues and simple lines of the café interior seem sterile, life bursts from every plate, with both sweet and savoury meals presenting colours as loud and bold as their flavours. 7. Addict Food & Coffee | 240-242 Johnston St, Fitzroy The perfect spot to throw yourself into the grunge scene of Fitzroy with a good feed guaranteed. 8. Auction Rooms | 103-107 Errol St, North Melbourne Café’s industrial blue exterior blends seamlessly into this trendy area and combines a cold concrete and steel interior with a heart and stomach warming coffee and food menu. Coffee not enough? Enjoy a local beer, wine or signature cocktail!
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Melbourne is famous for its coffee and crazy weather. Let our blustery Winter winds blow you in the right direction to one of our favourite cafes to drive away the cold weather blues with cosy interiors, unique offerings or just a really great cup of memorable Melbourne blends.
A DAY OUT
to the Mornington Peninsula
Discover the seaside area devoted to good food, good atmosphere and true relaxation. The Mornington Peninsula has something on offer for every age and energy level, all set to the gentle background of Port Phillip Bay. So, head out of the madness of Melbourne for the day and enjoy a little bit of everything this hot spot has to offer.
8:30am - Breakfast at Boyz 4 Breakie Though their catch phrase might be ‘Not just breakfast’, and trust us, the breakfast is worth it. Famous for its diverse and delicious offerings, Boyz 4 Breakie is located just off the esplanade in the heart of Mornington, making it a perfect start for your day. 9:30 - Mother’s Beach Cross through Mornington’s beautiful park and make your way down the sand swept steps to Mother’s Beach. This gentle cove within the greater Port Phillip Bay makes for the perfect spot for a relaxing walk. Back up onto the cliffend, work off breakfast with a more brisk pace along the Bay Trail. 11:30 - Red Hill Winery Tour Cruise your way to the Red Hill wine district and discover the wineries of all your favourite labels. Lindenderry, Eldridge Estate, Polperro and T’Gallant all call the area home, with a variety of winery tours and restaurants at your fingertips. 12:30 - Lunch at the Green Olive Ready for a lazy lunch? Enjoy the incredible food at The Green Olive Red Hill, weave through their kitchen garden and pat their resident pigs. Stroll through the olive grove to work off the wine. 2:00 - Enchanted Adventure Garden For the kids and big kids at heart, the Enchanted Adventure Garden offers something for everyone. High energy? Try the Tree Surfing course for an adrenaline pump. Lunch got you lazy? Take an easy walk through the gardens, including their famous 3 metre tall hedge maze. 5:00pm - Peninsula Hot Springs The real stand out at Peninsula Hot Springs in Rye is their Spa Dreaming centre. Doze during your kodo massage, soothe yourself in the healing waters, then enjoy a delicious meal with one of their Dine & Bathe packages. 9:00pm - Drive in Movie Dromana A short drive leads you to the Dromana Drive In, where you can watch the latest flicks while chilling out in your own car. After your active day and wind down at the springs, don’t be surprised if you’re snoring before the end sweet dream!
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INTERVIEW: Each year, MWF bring together writers from around the world to celebrate literature, to explore ideas and to inspire readers. We got a chance to have a chat with the Program Manager, Jessica Alice this year and she is ready to tell you all about literacy!
For the full interview visit: weknowmelbourne.wordpress.com/2017/05/16/interviewjessica-alice/
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with Jessica Alice Program Manager of MWF 1. Tell us about your journey from being a writer to Program Manager at Melbourne Writer’s Festival 2017? It’s a little convoluted! Right out of high school I hit the slam poetry scene pretty hard, performing in pubs and theatres and at festivals. I became the poetry editor for several publications – notably, a feminist punk journal called Scum. I wrote an honours thesis on feminist poetry, and after university I used my writing skills to land jobs in arts marketing. I directed the National Young Writers Festival and felt really at home programing events, and after deciding marketing wasn’t my thing, I made the move to MWF, where it’s literature and creativity on a massive scale. 2. How did you celebrate after you were appointed to be the Program Manager of Melbourne Writer’s Festival? I can’t quite remember. I probably ate a lot of food. I know that I got the call during a staff meeting at another arts organisation, and the director came out of the room with me and we did a kind of squeal-dance-hug. It was lovely. 3. What can writers and readers expect this year at MWF? The world is in a really weird, dangerous place politically right now and we’re responding to that directly. Expect big international and local names in literary fiction, political commentary, journalism, poetry, music and more. We’re figuring out how we got into this mess, and where to next. 4. What is your favourite topic to write about? I’m currently writing a monthly column about intimacy and new media that explores different modes of digital communication and its effect on our experience of time and space. More generally I write personal creative nonfiction about the usual things art and desire - as well as cultural criticism, exploring pop culture through a theoretical lens.
5. What were you like in uni and what inspired you to get into literature? I was knee-deep in performance poetry and probably fairly obsessive about that as an art form (I also hosted a community radio show interviewing poets). I felt I innately understood literature and poetry, so it was natural to want to be close to art by working in editing and festivals. 6. What advice do you have for start-up writers? Learn to accept, and even desire criticism of your work. Working with an editor is kind of an amazing thing that you don’t get in other pursuits - an editor’s job is essentially to help you make your work better. Honest feedback in invaluable and integral to your growth as a writer. 7. If you could describe yourself under 5 words, what would it be? All about the vision. 8. What are you reading right now? I’m currently reading Elizabeth Tan’s amazing debut novel Rubik¸ about death and connectivity in the digital age, and Ottessa Moshfegh’s short story collection Homesick for Another World, which has the weirdest and darkest characters. 9. Lastly, what is the most effective way to make a great first impression? Offer someone something – a bit of haloumi, a glass of wine, a kiss on the cheek.
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INTERVIEW:
with Melbourne Buskers
Our first busker - John Crosbie is a 57 year old Australian musician from Melbourne who enjoys busking as a way to entertain people. He has been busking for 4 years now, and he does it for a living. Most of the time people love John’s street performances, he says he hasn’t had any complaints yet! A man of few words, here’s what he had to say: 1. Why do you busk? The need to pay the rent. 2. Is busking a hobby or a job? A job. 3. How long have you been busking for? About 4 years. 4. Are you from Melbourne or travelling through? Originally from Melbourne. 5. What’s the most enjoyable thing about busking? Getting it right. I enjoy doing what I do … if that entertains people then so be it! 6. What are the typical reactions you get from the public? Most people are very sweet, there hasn’t been any complaints or angry people recently. Most people really like my music and I’ve hardly got a complaint since I first started. Find out more here - johncrosbie.com
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It’s no secret that the centre of the city, where Elizabeth, Bourke, Swanston and Lonsdale Streets all meet is a vibrant thriving hub of bohemian street artists and buskers. Everyday, these streets are lined with fresh talent, entertaining the thousands of people who work and live in the city. We caught up with a couple of nearby performers to get a little bit of their back story, and find out more about their craft. Opal Ocean are a duet formed by Nadav Tabak from New Zealand and Alex Champ from France. These blokes have been busking for around three years and have enjoyed every minute of it. Busking is only a hobby for them (although it does help to pay the bills). They love it because they get to spread their music and meet new people. The only compliant they’ve received over the past three years is that they play their music too loud. 1. Why do you busk? We do it for a full time job and to sustain ourselves. We have been doing this for three years now, and it’s a great way to meet new people and get our music out there. If we don’t have a gig then we can pull up and play to an audience that normally doesn’t know us. It’s more of a stepping stone for us and a means to an end. 2. Is busking a hobby or a job? Busking is a hobby for us, but it also helps with paying the bills. 3. How long have you been busking for? We have been busking for around four years between gigs, and are so greatful that we can make money doing what we love - Nadav 4. Are you from Melbourne or travelling through? I’m [Nadav] from New Zealand and Alex is from France, who also lived in New Caledonia and New Zealand. 5. What’s the most enjoyable thing about busking? The performance, giving music to people and doing what we love. It’s that moment when the song is sounding good and you’re sharing a moment with a complete stranger. You then realise that they’re digging the song which makes the job well worth it - Alex 6. What are the typical reactions you get from the public? I’d say 99 percent of the public loves us because the only complaint in three years we’ve got is that we play too loud. You never know what people are going through, so [we try to] brighten their day - playing music lights up peoples moods and makes them smile – Nadav Find out more here - opalocean.com.au
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
Mercure Welcome Melbourne 265 Little Bourke St | 1300 654 966 This modern 3.5 star hotel accommodation, provides guests with comfort, convenience, and great-value, budget rates that leave you more to spend on Melbourne city’s many attractions! mercurewelcome.com.au
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
Rydges St Kilda 35-37 Fitzroy St, St Kilda | 1300 884 373 This unique boutique-style hotel offers an inner Melbourne location with a beach town feel, plus all the features and amenities that come with a self rated 4.5-star Melbourne hotel. Located in the heart of Melbourne’s iconic St Kilda, Rydges Hotel is just a few steps from St Kilda Beach and Luna Park. rydges.com/stkilda
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WELCOME MELBOURNE
@weknowmelbourne
@swanstonhotel
@mercurewelcomemelbourne
Illustrated by Florence Parmentier