Something old, something new. Something brewing, something blue
Published on 07 October 2022
The Aldinga township is buzzing with half a dozen new businesses this year – not to mention other newcomers since 2020.
Aldinga is now an eclectic mix of old and new that has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a designer frock, a massage or a pre-loved book, Aldinga is a thriving precinct in Onkaparinga. That’s not to mention the award-winning burgers, the craft beers and local wines, and enticing food ranging from vegan to choccie donuts.
And it’s all about community and being local.
Much of the early impetus came from the Home Grain Bakery and Miss Gladys on Sea.
Toff and Cara West launched the Home Grain Bakery in December 2011, despite having no bakery experience.
“We were locals and, when the old general store closed down, we thought the building could be a focal point for the community. Plus Aldinga needed a good bakery!” says Toff.
“Our view was the more the merrier, so we encouraged others to come. At one time, we were the only place to get coffee, now there are many. And that’s been good for all us.
“The real difference is Aldinga’s newish night-time economy. At one time the township closed at four, but now there are places open from early morning until late at night.”
Joff Chappel and fashion designer Razak set up Miss Gladys on Sea ten years ago, at first ferrying in clothes from their Rundle Street store on the weekends. The store is now a local landmark.
“My partner Joff, who died in 2020, was a visionary. He saw the potential for the run-down Temperance Building,” says Razak.
“We partnered with the owner David Smallacombe to extend the building and improve the grounds to bring a diverse range of businesses into the mix.
“The Temperance precinct is now a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It’s a community and it’s thriving, but it is a lot of hard work.”
Morocco by Mish is the township’s newest business. The shop features traditional Moroccan handcrafts, from wool carpets to bold leather pouffes, but it’s more than a shopfront.
“We sell authentic goods made by people I know in Morocco, and we also run a tour business to Morocco and manage the charity Red Goes Faster which provides wheelchairs to children in Morocco,” says owner Michelle Hank.
After living for 20 years in Morocco, Michelle and her partner chose the Fleurieu to live in because of the sense of community.
“We’ve now moved our business to Aldinga because it’s an incredible place for locals and visitors,” she says.
Elise Riannen also chose the area because of the supportive community. She opened the Here’s to Strength Community Wellness Hub in June this year after arriving from Sydney.
“The wellness hub gives back to the community. It is a safe space. Self-care is different for everyone, whether it’s a candle, counselling, massage, gardening or simply a cup of coffee in peace,” she says.
“We now have more than 40 practitioners, from energy healing to animal therapy, and we offer self-care products and services from around 70 businesses, most of them local.
“When I arrived on the Aldinga esplanade, I felt alive and safe and I knew I was home. I came fleeing domestic violence and people were so supportive. It’s unlike any community I’ve ever known.”
Moose on the Fleurieu opened during the year to those shopping for women’s clothing, skincare, gifts and homewares. Local art adorns the walls and shelves, including limited-edition aquamarine coastal paintings by local artists.
Newly opened vegan restaurant Lucky Ducks is a foodie’s destination, boasting a menu including yellow banana blossom curry and white truffle and mushroom pate. The food is simple, well-made and straight from the heart.
Launched in June last year, Kick Back Brewing Co. is a family-owned business that offers onsite brewing, all-day food, outdoor dining, and live music on the weekends.
“Aldinga and surrounds were blossoming but there was no family-friendly experience where people could just meet up, hang out and connect,” says Brenton Schoemaker, Kick Back’s chief brewer and owner.
“We’re very local, brewing and selling locally, so it’s a sustainable approach that’s also community-based.”
But it’s not all new in Aldinga.
The long-established businesses offer everything from blues on vinyl and bunches of violets to hobbies and organic produce.
Heritage buildings, the renewed streetscape and local art, including the large heart-shaped sculptures installed around the town, beg for an unhurried stroll and a long lunch.
Newcomer Michelle from Morocco by Mish confirms that the Aldinga township is all about community and being local.
“The area is growing in such a positive way and we love the community and what it stands for. Choosing the Fleurieu community is the best thing we’ve ever done.”
So get out and about in Aldinga and Go South Go Local this weekend!
#gosouthgolocal