THE BIGGER PICTURE Archives - Page 5 of 8 - Melbourne Lifestyles Magazine

Local shops are vital for age-friendly communities

Local shops play an important role in older people’s daily lives and, for many, are an integral part of their social network.

The soul of South Melbourne Market: A life among the pages

Rod Cameron has spent nearly forty years curating a unique collection of literature at his South Melbourne Market bookshop. His dedication to independent retail has created a lasting community connection that spans generations of readers.

Beyond the counter: The families behind Richmond’s iconic Vietnamese restaurants

Victoria Street serves as the cultural heart of Melbourne where multi-generational families have preserved their culinary legacy following the Vietnam War. These restaurant owners maintain traditional recipes while adapting to modern tastes to ensure the continued cultural significance of the precinct.

Thornbury’s taste makers: The family behind the local food scene

The Finanzio family has built a lasting legacy in the Thornbury food scene by prioritizing traditional European hospitality over fleeting culinary trends. Through venues like Umberto Espresso Bar, they continue to provide authentic home-style dining that fosters a deep connection with the local community.

Less massive trucks on our roads; we need to invest in our rail network

Transport by rail has fallen to 6.1%, which means the number of massive trucks going to and from the Port of Melbourne has significantly increased.

The quiet dedication of South Melbourne Market vendors

Discover the deeply human stories and quiet dedication behind the iconic South Melbourne Market vendors. These individuals build community and supply fresh produce daily through rituals built on trust.

The keepers of the pier: Stories from Port Melbourne’s lifelong anglers

The dedicated anglers of Port Melbourne maintain a lifelong connection to the sea through traditional fishing methods and historic timber piers. These community members actively preserve local maritime history while leading vital marine conservation efforts across Port Phillip Bay.

How Hattie Molloy shapes Melbourne’s floral landscape

Hattie Molloy elevates Melbourne’s floral landscape by transforming traditional organic materials into surrealist botanical sculptures for high-end residential spaces. Her bespoke artistic practice rejects rigid retail formulas in favor of unique sensory installations that command a premium market space.

More than milk and bread, corner stores could rebuild neighbourhoods.

Once an icon of suburban Australia, many neighbourhood corner stores vanished in the face of unrelenting competition from large supermarkets.

Changing faces of fashion: A South Melbourne boutique owner reflects on style

A storied South Melbourne menswear boutique has transitioned from its origins as a heritage bakery into a premier destination for contemporary fashion. Under the ownership of Andrew Scawen, the business continues to provide expert tailoring and personalized service to the modern gentleman.