Get to know your locals

Be inspired by the people behind our city

42 years of making the community feel beautiful

Grip Hair Design – Ferntree Gully Grip Hair Design, led by owner Sandra, has been part of the hairdressing industry for more than four decades, and her love for the craft is just as strong today as when she first began. A passion that started early Sandra’s journey into hairdressing began with work experience placements, what she jokingly calls “back in the dark ages.” What started as a simple placement quickly turned into an apprenticeship opportunity, and the rest is histor

Healing with heart at Empress Acupuncture

Empress Acupuncture – Upper Ferntree Gully Nestled along Burwood Highway in Upper Ferntree Gully, Empress Acupuncture offers a calm sanctuary where modern life slows down and healing takes centre stage. Founded by experienced practitioner Anna Ritter, the clinic blends traditional Chinese medicine with complementary therapies to support whole-person wellbeing. A journey guided by purpose Anna has been practising Chinese medicine for over 15 years, beginning her professional j

Big fun for little legends with Kelly Mini Sports

Kelly Mini Sports – Boronia For toddlers and preschoolers, sport isn’t about competition, it’s about confidence, coordination, and having fun. That’s exactly the philosophy behind Kelly Mini Sports, a vibrant early-years sports programme helping young children discover movement, teamwork, and self-belief from their very first kick, throw, or jump. From professional sport to playground smiles Kelly Mini Sports was founded in 2013 by Cameron Drake, alongside Jeff Fleming and St

A healing space in Boronia, with a holistic vision

Myonation – Boronia Located in Boronia, Myonation is a locally owned myotherapy clinic helping people move better, feel stronger, and address the root cause of their pain. Founded by Buffy Dillon, Myonation combines evidence-based manual therapy with a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. From passion to practice Buffy’s journey into myotherapy began nearly two decades ago. Starting her career as a Remedial Massage Therapist, she was drawn to the profession by a genuin

Trusted local pet care for over 40 years

Animal World – Boronia For more than 40 years, Animal World of Boronia has been a much-loved part of the local retail landscape, earning its place as the second oldest pet store in Melbourne. Independently owned and proudly local, the business continues to support Boronia pet owners with expert advice, carefully selected products, and genuine care for animals of all kinds. Continuing a local legacy When the opportunity arose to take over Animal World of Boronia, the decision

A creative haven for patchwork lovers in Boronia

Lilly Patches – Boronia Tucked away in Boronia Village, Lilly Patches is a much-loved patchwork and fabric store that has been inspiring makers for over 25 years. Owned by June, the business is built on a lifetime of sewing knowledge, a love of traditional craftsmanship, and a strong sense of community. A passion stitched into a business June’s journey into patchwork began with a deep appreciation for fabric, colour, and making things by hand. What started as a personal passi

A new home for passionate dancers in Boronia

Studio8dance – Boronia Opening its doors on 2 February, Studio8dance is a brand-new dance studio bringing energy, creativity, and heart to Boronia. Founded by local dancer and teacher Hayley Coleman, the studio is the realisation of a lifelong dream, creating a space where dancers of all ages can grow, learn, and fall in love with dance. Located on Boronia Road, Studio8dance is set to become a welcoming hub for the local dance community. From childhood dream to dance studio H

Banking that puts the community first

Community Bank – Ferntree Gully For 25 years, Community Bank Ferntree Gully has been proving that banking can be about more than numbers, it can be about people, place, and purpose. As the first Community Bank branch in the region, the branch was founded on a simple but powerful idea: when you bank locally, your money can help strengthen the community you call home. Located on Station Street, Community Bank Ferntree Gully proudly supports not only Ferntree Gully, but communit

Sweet success in Knoxfield

JALB Gelato & Panini Bar – Knoxfield A little slice of dessert heaven that locals just can’t get enough of, JALB Gelato & Panini Bar, where artisan gelato meets delicious house-made panini in the heart of Knoxfield. Behind this beloved local gem are owners Chris and Marina, a passionate hospitality duo who have been serving smiles and scoops to the community for nearly four years. A dream built on a love for sweets For Chris and Marina, gelato isn't just dessert, it’s a

Helping you move better, feel better, live better

Lifeway Physiotherapy – Wantirna South At Lifeway Physiotherapy in Wantirna South, helping people live healthy, active lives isn’t just a job, it’s a passion. Owner Fiona has always loved helping others, and her journey to opening Lifeway Physiotherapy began overseas in Singapore, where she trained and worked across hospitals, community settings, and not-for-profit organisations. When she moved to Melbourne, she knew she wanted to continue using her skills to make a differ

A true Italian experience in the Heart of Boronia

La Casa Woodfired Pizza Pasta Bar & Grill – Boronia Tucked along Boronia Road, La Casa Woodfired Pizza Pasta Bar & Grill is more than a restaurant, it’s a local gathering place where great food, laughter, and community spirit meet. A passion for food and connection La Casa was born from a simple love of good food and a desire to create memorable dining experiences. Owner James, together with his mentor Ralph, brings decades of restaurant experience to Boronia. Ralph’s awar

Pop Culture Larrikin, where everyone belongs

Pop Culture Larrikin – Bayswater Step inside Pop Culture Larrikin in Bayswater and you’ll quickly realise, it’s a community hub for pop culture lovers . It’s a place where fans, collectors, and families come together to celebrate creativity, nostalgia, and connection. Founded by Luke, Pop Culture Larrikin began as an online store in 2023 before opening its physical doors in 2024. With a background in retail management and graphic design, Luke used his experience to bring to

Authentic flavours, made with love at Hochi Mini

Hochi Mini – Ferntree Gully A taste of home in Ferntree Gully When Henri Quan and Oanh Tran opened Hochi Mini in December 2019, their goal was to share the comforting, authentic flavours of Vietnam with the local community. What began as a dream to bring Oanh’s home-style cooking to life has become a much-loved local favourite for those seeking flavourful, honest food served with warmth. “My wife has always been a passionate cook,” Henri explains. “She’s completely se