Month: March 2016

Waverley Antique Bazaar

March 31, 2016February 12, 2017By Debi Slinger No Comments

I found heaven! A place where I can wander without knowing what’s around the next corner. Or what memory an item will bring to my consciousness. Or what will put a smile on my face.

Yes, the largest antique centre in Melbourne established by Geoff and Barb in 2011 is hidden away in down town Waverley. With over 5500 square metres of warehouse filled with 180 individual stalls, I went into a time warp as I explored through the most eclectic range of vintage clothes, vintages wares, retro furniture, collectable toys, antiques as well as the odd and unusual.

(more…)

Markets, Op Shops, Secondhand

Boroondara Farmers’ Market

March 30, 2016April 9, 2016By Debi Slinger 1 Comment

There is nothing more enjoyable than a Farmers’ Market where you can meet the grower, the maker, the ardent foodie or the brains behind the produce. As one of Victoria’s longest running FM’s The Boroondara Farmers’ Market is always a delight to visit but my true joy is meeting the stallholders who are passionate about their creations. Their journey, their stories, their wares are always the best part for me.

Like many Farmers’ Markets this one offers a diverse range of produce from across the state with the usual seasonal produce, eggs, honey, bread but also licorice, organic tea, kiwi fruit the size of berries (oh so delicious) and olives / olive oil. The handmade pasta, jams, pastry items, dog biscuits are all part of this wonderful market.

(more…)

Explore & Inspire

The Power of Words #30

March 29, 2016November 15, 2015By Debi Slinger No Comments

https://deborahslinger.wordpress.com/explore-inspire/the-power-of-words/

Markets, Op Shops, Secondhand

Yarra Glen Market

March 26, 2016April 30, 2016By Debi Slinger 2 Comments

It’s wonderful to see the Yarra Glen Market back where it belongs – at the Racecourse. On this expansive space set in the greenery of the Yarra Valley, this is another one of the CMA’s signature markets popular with locals, tourists and Melbournites looking to explore beyond their urban surroundings.

There are around 300 stalls and with a criteria of hand-made / home-made, you’ll find exquisite food, clothing, homewares, plants, cards, artwork, muesli, veggies, fruit and so much more. The quality is exceptional – you won’t find imported rubbish here and its fabulous to see the ingenuity and creativity of people. Everything sold at the new market has to be fresh, home-made, good value and above all exceptional quality. Tick!

(more…)

Markets, Op Shops, Secondhand

Rotary Recycled Treasures – Blackburn South

March 24, 2016April 9, 2016By Debi Slinger No Comments

Along busy Canterbury Road in Blackburn South is the cutest Op Shop which was the essence of how Op Shops originally looked. Jam packed with ‘stuff’ you need to have a good sort through this one to find your treasures. For example, there are a glut of CD’s and DVD’s (right), just waiting for a new home. Believe me, some of these titles are great. Something for everyone here.

The Rotary Op Shop opened it’s doors on the 1st July 2002 and since that time (up until 2015) their donations back into the community have exceeded $580,000. That is quite an achievement for such a small little shop.

(more…)

Explore & Inspire

The Power of Words #29

March 22, 2016November 15, 2015By Debi Slinger No Comments

https://deborahslinger.wordpress.com/explore-inspire/the-power-of-words/

Explore & Inspire, Travel Tips & Ideas

Camping at Mt Arapiles

March 17, 2016April 9, 2016By Debi Slinger 2 Comments

I’ve been camping at Mt. Arapiles since 1989 with school groups, corporate groups, on my own and with my family. In this post I’ll share my experience and recommendations as a regular camper. Note: there may be changes from the time this post has been published, so please do you own research to ensure you’re appropriately informed. I will often refer to Mt Arapiles throughout this post as the mount.

The photo below was taken at Mitre Lake salt pans looking back to the mount in 2015. Not sure why my daughter needed to lay down on the salt pans but it certainly was a fascinating place to visit. Views back to the mount are stunning. Please stay on the tracks if you’re heading out for a visit.

(more…)

Explore & Inspire

The Power of Words #28

March 15, 2016November 15, 2015By Debi Slinger No Comments

https://deborahslinger.wordpress.com/explore-inspire/the-power-of-words/

Repurpose & Upcycle

Upcycled Owls

March 10, 2016April 9, 2016By Debi Slinger 2 Comments

Everyone loves owls and these are easily made from everyday items which you can source from Op Shops, trash and treasure or the cutlery drawer at home.