#function space melbourne

[hotelcollingwoods]

Guide to Selecting Function Hire for Themed Parties

Are you planning a themed party and feeling overwhelmed by all the details? Don't worry, you're not alone! 

One of the key elements of hosting a successful themed party is selecting the right function hire Melbourne services. From finding the perfect venue to choosing the right decorations and entertainment, there's a lot to consider. 

But fear not—this guide will cover everything you need to know to make your themed party a memorable success.

Understanding the Importance of Function Hire

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's take a moment to understand why function hire is so crucial for themed parties. Whether you're hosting a birthday bash, a corporate event, or a wedding reception, the right function hire can set the tone for the entire party. From creating the perfect atmosphere to ensuring that your guests have a fantastic time, every aspect of your party can benefit from thoughtful function hire choices.

Assessing Your Needs

The first step in selecting a function hire for your themed party is assessing your needs. Take some time to consider the theme of your party, the number of guests you'll be hosting, and your budget. Are you going for a glamorous Gatsby-inspired affair or a whimsical fairy tale theme? Knowing the specifics of your party will help you narrow down your function hire Melbourne options and make informed decisions.

Choosing the Right Venue

One of the most important aspects of function hiring for themed parties is selecting the right venue. The venue sets the stage for your entire event, so it's essential to choose one that complements your theme and can accommodate your guests comfortably. Whether you opt for a grand ballroom, a rustic barn, or a quirky urban loft, make sure that the venue aligns with the vibe you want to create for your party.

Decorating for Success

Once you've secured your venue, it's time to think about decorations. Function hire services often include decor options ranging from table centrepieces to elaborate backdrops and props. When selecting decorations for your themed party, be sure to choose items that enhance your theme without overwhelming the function space Melbourne offers. Consider incorporating elements like themed lighting, custom signage, and coordinating linens to tie everything together seamlessly.

Entertainment Options

No themed party is complete without the right entertainment. Whether you're hiring a live band, a DJ, or a troupe of performers, entertainment can take your party to the next level and keep your guests engaged throughout the event. Consider your theme and the preferences of your guests when selecting entertainment options. For example, a 1920s-themed party might call for a jazz band and a dance floor, while a tropical luau could feature fire dancers and a ukulele player.

Catering Considerations

Food and drink are essential components of any party, and themed parties are no exception. When selecting a catering service for your event, consider options that align with your theme and dietary preferences. Whether you're serving up gourmet bites inspired by your theme or crafting custom cocktails to match, function hire services can help you create a menu that wows your guests and keeps them coming back for more.

Finalising the Details

As your party date approaches, it's essential to finalise all the details of your function hire arrangements. Double-check your contracts with vendors, confirm delivery and setup times, and communicate any last-minute changes or requests. By staying organised and proactive, you can ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of your event and that your themed party is a resounding success.

Conclusion

Planning a themed party can be a daunting task, but with the right function hire Melbourne services by your side, it can also be incredibly rewarding. 

By assessing your needs, choosing the right venue, selecting decorations and entertainment that complement your theme, and finalising all the details, you can host a memorable themed party that will leave your guests talking for years to come. So, Put on your costume, start the music, and get ready to party all night long!

Source by -  Guide to Selecting Function Hire for Themed Parties

[productiveandfree]

Top Choice: The Timber Yard for Outdoor Event Hire

Key Highlights

The Timber Yard offers versatile event spaces suitable for various types of events.

Its unique industrial charm and decor create a distinctive ambiance in Melbourne.

Situated in the heart of Melbourne's Central Business District, it boasts a superb location for any event.

State-of-the-art facilities at The Timber Yard ensure a top-notch experience for guests.

Exceptional catering services provided add a touch of excellence to your outdoor event.

Introduction

The Timber Yard is the perfect venue for your next outdoor event. It has a unique industrial style and a great location in Melbourne. The venue offers modern facilities and different spaces for many outdoor events. You can host engagement parties, baby showers, or other special days here. The Timber Yard is a good choice for a smooth event experience, even with Melbourne's unpredictable weather.

Key Reasons to Choose The Timber Yard for Your Outdoor Event

The Timber Yard is a great place for your outdoor event. It has many event spaces which have a unique industrial look. You will find it in the heart of Melbourne. The venue has modern facilities and top-notch catering services. This mix of style and function works well for different types of outdoor events. These events can range from engagement parties to business gatherings. The pleasant weather in Melbourne adds to the great feel of any special occasion. The Timber Yard helps make your event smooth and memorable. It is a top choice for unforgettable outdoor events.

1. Versatile Event Spaces

The Timber Yard is a great place for all types of events. You can hold small get-togethers or large parties here. Whether it’s a work event or a fancy wedding, this venue can be set up to meet your plans. There are indoor and outdoor areas, giving you the freedom to create the event you want. The Timber Yard is ideal for an outdoor event, combining nature with a stylish, industrial feel.

2. Unique Industrial Charm

The Timber Yard has a special industrial look that makes it great for your outdoor event. Its mix of sleek and rough styles gives a unique feel that is different from standard function venues. Guests will love the rustic charm of the place, making for a memorable experience. The combination of raw materials with modern touches adds a bit of class, making it perfect for a stylish and trendy event.

3. Superb Location in the Heart of Melbourne

The Timber Yard is in a great spot right in the middle of Melbourne. This makes it a good place for your outdoor event. With its central location in a busy area, your guests can easily get to the venue. Plus, this prime spot allows for smooth travel around town before or after the event. If you're planning an outdoor event hire, the lively atmosphere of Melbourne adds a unique touch, ensuring your event is memorable and enjoyable for all attendees.

4. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Discover great facilities at The Timber Yard. They have modern AV equipment and fast Wi-Fi. Your outdoor event will be ready for success. With the latest tech and amenities, your attendees will be impressed by how convenient and useful the venue is. The Timber Yard makes sure your event goes well with the best services that meet all your needs.

5. Exceptional Catering Services

At The Timber Yard, you can enjoy amazing catering services that make your outdoor event a special treat. Our skilled chefs create tasty menus for all kinds of preferences and dietary needs. This way, your guests will have a wonderful food experience. We offer everything from beautiful canapés to delicious main dishes and sweet desserts. Our catering is designed to impress you. Whether it's a work event or a personal party, you can enjoy great food and top-notch service right at your event.

Maximizing Your Experience at The Timber Yard

Want to have a great event at The Timber Yard? Here are some tips to help you:

Plan carefully to keep the event running smoothly.

Change the layout to fit your event better.

Add special decor to make it feel personal.

Use both indoor and outdoor areas well.

Work with local vendors to improve what you offer at the event.

By following these tips, you can make your outdoor event at The Timber Yard even better.

Tips for Planning Your Event

Think about the layout carefully. Use both outdoor and indoor spaces to bring out the Timber Yard's charm.

Engage local vendors to provide unique decor elements, like fairy lights, to improve the atmosphere.

Plan for Melbourne's changing weather, also known as Melbourne's weather, by having options for indoor setups.

Make sure restrooms are easy for attendees to access.

Choose a Monday or Thursday for your booking. This may help you save on pricing compared to weekends.

Design your event to fit the relaxed vibe of the venue. You could have a cocktail reception or a lounge area.

Keep in mind that December bookings will be busier because of the festive season.

Customizing Your Event Layout

Bring your ideas to life by shaping the event layout at The Timber Yard. You can choose from stylish table setups and fun seating styles. The venue lets you change the space to fit your event’s vibe. Add fairy lights for a magical feel, or set up special areas for different activities. The venue's cool industrial look gives a distinct backdrop for your decorations, making each part of the space great for photos. With good planning and a focus on details, your event layout at The Timber Yard will impress your guests.

Incorporating Unique Decor

Transform your outdoor event into something special at The Timber Yard. Use unique decor to make it enchanting. You can add fairy lights or rustic flowers to create an elegant atmosphere. Vintage pieces or modern art can boost the industrial feel of the space. Make it personal with themes that fit your event, whether it’s an engagement party or a cozy baby shower. Your guests will love the special touches that make your event unique in this lovely outdoor venue. Show off your creativity in every part of this amazing place.

Leveraging Outdoor and Indoor Spaces

Make the most of your event at The Timber Yard. You can use both outdoor and indoor spaces. Blend the natural beauty of the outdoor area with the unique charm of the indoor settings. Enhance interactions among your attendees by using different spaces for various activities or moods. This venue gives you the best of both worlds, available for events every Saturday as well. Plan carefully and use all available areas to create a memorable and exciting gathering.

Engaging with Local Vendors

Engage with local vendors to make your outdoor event at The Timber Yard special. Working with nearby suppliers adds a unique touch to your occasion and helps the local community. Local vendors offer everything from handmade decorations to special catering. They can improve the feel and choices of your event, making it memorable for you and your guests. Take the chance to build real connections with nearby businesses to create an unforgettable outdoor event full of local charm.

Conclusion

As you finish your event at The Timber Yard, you will enjoy the mix of nature and industrial design. This combination makes any occasion special. It is in a great spot, and it has excellent facilities that will make your outdoor event venue stand out. The different event spaces, along with great catering choices, help to make sure your event goes smoothly and is a success. Make your next outdoor event truly unforgettable at The Timber Yard. Let’s celebrate creating lasting memories in the heart of Melbourne!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of events can The Timber Yard accommodate?

The Timber Yard can host many different events. This includes weddings, corporate functions, product launches, private parties, and more. Its flexible spaces and modern facilities make it great for any occasion.

How can I book The Timber Yard for my event?

To book The Timber Yard for your event, go to their website. Fill out the inquiry form and include your event details. Their team will contact you to talk about availability, pricing, and standard delivery options for any special needs you have. Planning is easy!

Share in the comments below: Questions go here

[grandereception]

Finding the Perfect Setting: A Guide to Private Function Rooms in Melbourne. Melbourne, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene, offers a plethora of options when it comes to hosting events. From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, finding the right venue is crucial for a successful occasion. This guide explores the world of Private Function Rooms Melbourne, providing insights into what to consider when searching for the ideal space.

[hotelcollingwoodvic]

Planning an event is an exciting venture, whether it’s a wedding, corporate function, birthday party, or any other gathering. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the right event space hire. 

The perfect venue can set the tone for your event and ensure everything goes off without a hitch. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the unique event space hire in Melbourne to suit your occasion.

[focusonarchitecture]

Day 33 — North Melbourne Station

The station was originally constructed in 1859, and parts of the station retain a Victorian-era design with red-brick façades and heritage-listed structures.

In May 2006, it was announced that the station was to be redeveloped. Recent renovations have introduced sleek, contemporary design elements. Features such as wide platforms, glass walls, and steel-framed roofing create a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. The roofing includes large canopies that protect passengers from the elements while allowing natural light to flood the station.

As part of Melbourne’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure, the station incorporates green spaces and eco-friendly design elements, such as energy-efficient lighting and rainwater collection.

The station is a blend of Melbourne’s rail heritage and its push for modernity, reflecting the city’s evolving identity while catering to increasing passenger demand.

Photo: 2019

[the-flat-pack-kitchen-co]

🌟 Step into a new era of DIY luxury with The Flat Pack Kitchen Co.! 🌟 Customize your dream kitchen from the comfort of your home with our intuitive online software. Dive into a seamless design experience and make every detail uniquely yours, from sleek finger pulls to stylish finishes. 🛠️✨

📞 Stuck or need advice? Our expert team is just a Zoom call away, ready to help you perfect your space. Join us on this exciting DIY journey and transform your kitchen into a masterpiece of functionality and style.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

New SpaceTime out Wednesday

SpaceTime 20250312 Series 28 Episode 31

Confirmation of beaches on Mars

Grab your surfboard, China’s Zhurong Mars rover confirms that ocean beaches once covered the red planet’s northern hemisphere.

Water appeared earlier in the history of the universe than thought

A new study has shown that water – essential for life as we know it – could have emerged far earlier in the history of the universe than previously thought.

NASA forced to turn off instruments aboard the Voyager spacecraft

NASA has been forced to turn off two science instruments aboard the Voyager spacecraft.

The Science Report

A new study has destroyed the common stereotype. that Women are more romantic than men.

Doctors use electroshock therapy on kids with ADHD.

Claims that eating walnuts for breakfast could improve brain function.

Alex on Tech: Apples new i-pad.

SpaceTime covers the latest news in astronomy & space sciences.

The show is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Apple Podcasts (itunes), Stitcher, Google Podcast, Pocketcasts, SoundCloud, Bitez.com, YouTube, your favourite podcast download provider, and from www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

SpaceTime is also broadcast through the National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio and on both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

SpaceTime daily news blog: http://spacetimewithstuartgary.tumblr.com/

SpaceTime facebook: www.facebook.com/spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime Instagram @spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime twitter feed @stuartgary

SpaceTime YouTube: @SpaceTimewithStuartGary

SpaceTime -- A brief history

SpaceTime is Australia’s most popular and respected astronomy and space science news program – averaging over two million downloads every year. We’re also number five in the United States.  The show reports on the latest stories and discoveries making news in astronomy, space flight, and science.  SpaceTime features weekly interviews with leading Australian scientists about their research.  The show began life in 1995 as ‘StarStuff’ on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) NewsRadio network.  Award winning investigative reporter Stuart Gary created the program during more than fifteen years as NewsRadio’s evening anchor and Science Editor.  Gary’s always loved science. He studied astronomy at university and was invited to undertake a PHD in astrophysics, but instead focused on his career in journalism and radio broadcasting. Gary’s radio career stretches back some 34 years including 26 at the ABC. He worked as an announcer and music DJ in commercial radio, before becoming a journalist and eventually joining ABC News and Current Affairs. He was part of the team that set up ABC NewsRadio and became one of its first on air presenters. When asked to put his science background to use, Gary developed StarStuff which he wrote, produced and hosted, consistently achieving 9 per cent of the national Australian radio audience based on the ABC’s Nielsen ratings survey figures for the five major Australian metro markets: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. That compares to the ABC’s overall radio listenership of just 5.6 per cent. The StarStuff podcast was published on line by ABC Science -- achieving over 1.3 million downloads annually.  However, after some 20 years, the show finally wrapped up in December 2015 following ABC funding cuts, and a redirection of available finances to increase sports and horse racing coverage.  Rather than continue with the ABC, Gary resigned so that he could keep the show going independently.  StarStuff was rebranded as “SpaceTime”, with the first episode being broadcast in February 2016.  Over the years, SpaceTime has grown, more than doubling its former ABC audience numbers and expanding to include new segments such as the Science Report -- which provides a wrap of general science news, weekly skeptical science features, special reports looking at the latest computer and technology news, and Skywatch – which provides a monthly guide to the night skies. The show is published three times weekly (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday) and available from the United States National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio, and through both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

[leibal]

A Table for One is a minimalist table created by Melbourne-based designer Jess Humpston. In an age of multi-tasking furniture and infinitely adaptable spaces, A Table for One makes a quietly radical statement through its singular devotion to a simple act: holding a single drink. Like the now-obsolete smokers’ tables that inspired it, this piece celebrates the beauty of uni-functional design, finding poetry in purposeful restraint.

[hotelcollingwoods]

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Function Venues for Corporate Events

Planning a corporate event can be both exciting and challenging. One of the key decisions that can significantly impact the success of your event is selecting the right function venue. With a myriad of options available, it's essential to navigate through the choices to find the perfect setting for your corporate gathering.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the important factors to consider when choosing a function venue that suits your event needs.

Understanding Your Event Needs

Before diving into the world of function venues in Melbourne, take a moment to reflect on the specific requirements of your corporate event.

Consider the size of your guest list, the nature of the event, and any special requirements you may have. Whether it's a conference, seminar, or a celebratory dinner, understanding your event needs is the first step in finding the ideal function venue.

Location Matters

The saying "location, location, location" holds true when it comes to choosing the right function venue. Think about the convenience for your guests – is the venue easily accessible? Is there ample parking or public transportation nearby? 

Opting for a central location that aligns with the majority of your attendees' locations can make a significant difference in the overall experience.

Amenities and Services

Another crucial aspect to consider is the amenities and services offered by the function venue. Does it have the necessary audio-visual equipment for presentations? Are catering services available, and can they accommodate any dietary restrictions? 

Check if the venue provides event staff to assist with logistics, ensuring a seamless experience for both you and your guests.

Budget Considerations

While it's tempting to go all out on a lavish function venue, it's important to set a realistic budget. Determine how much you are willing to allocate for the venue, and don't forget to inquire about any hidden costs.

Some function venues in Melbourne may include additional charges for services like cleaning, security, or overtime fees. Clarifying these details upfront will help you stay within budget and avoid any surprises.

Ambiance and Style

The ambience and style of the function venue play a significant role in creating the right atmosphere for your corporate event. Consider the nature of your event and choose a venue that complements its theme.

Whether you're aiming for a modern, sophisticated setting or a more relaxed and casual vibe, finding a function venue that aligns with your event's style will enhance the overall experience for your guests.

Flexibility and Customization

Flexibility is key when it comes to choosing a function venue. Look for a venue that offers customisation options to tailor the space according to your event's unique requirements.

Whether it's adjusting seating arrangements, adding branding elements, or incorporating specific decorations, a function venue that allows for flexibility ensures that your event is a true reflection of your company's personality and values.

Conclusion

Selecting the right function venue for your corporate event involves thoughtful consideration of your event needs, location, amenities, budget, ambiance, and flexibility.

By keeping these factors in mind and actively searching function venues in Melbourne that align with your vision, you'll set the stage for a successful and memorable corporate event.

Source: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Function Venues for Corporate Events

[skopostheorie]

Anyway I've been here for six days now (basically a naturalised citizen) so here is what I have to say about China

Shit is CHEAP. Worryingly cheap. Don't think about it too much.

Their hourly minimum wage is the equiv of about $5AUD but that's reasonably proportionate to how much a meal is. Rent seems a bit more difficult though so I don't know how people manage that (cheap as dirt places go for 4000yuan a month or so)

People are REALLY nice, even security guards and cops and other people you'd assume would kind of give you a hard time. They'll have a laugh with you about stuff.

The country kind of feels like it's encased in a giant metaphorical glass dome - everything functions using their own special apps, special ways of doing things, etc etc. Breaking into it is difficult, but once you're "in", so to speak, it's very easy.

Public spaces including trains and buses are a bit of an "every man for himself" vibe. People will play their phone videos out loud and no one even gives a shit. Once a security guard on shift was just sitting there playing his 抖音 videos out loud with little concern for anything or anyone. It's not mayhem, but it's certainly no polite affair.

Your phone loses battery very quickly and unless you're just going for a walk it's impossible to leave home without it as any purchase is via WeChat, Alipay et al. Many times I had considered going for a phone free outing before realising it just couldn't be done.

China is beautiful and just about every place has something to offer. There are streets that are clearly just a result of a LOT of urban development being done very quickly but in terms of actual sites, it's hard to find a city that doesn't have something incredible in it.

Their coffee is top notch. Seriously approaching Melbourne level. I'm flabbergasted and slightly concerned because frankly Australia is bullied by China on the daily and our coffee is the only thing I knew for certain we had over them. Now I don't know what the fuck we're meant to do

Trains tend to be in English, even if it's not particularly big with foreigners, though I haven't gone to any suuuuper remote locations so I don't know about those. They're very well maintained; they're more or less indistinguishable from those in Japan, Korea etc.

Bikes and motorbikes don't have to follow traffic lights which will make you shit yourself the first couple times they ride right past you as you cross the road.

There is not as much propaganda around as I was expecting. My uni has a big statue of Mao but as it happens that's just cuz he has a history with this particular university. I haven't seen any pictures of Mao anywhere else that's not, like, a dedicated Spot for that sort of thing (think Tiananmen square etc). I saw one pic of Xi in a museum. Most propaganda is just asking people to become soldiers and cops and stuff. I was expecting it to be like Vietnam or something but it's basically non-existent.

No the social credit memes are not true unless everyone else can see mine and is just not telling me

Those world statistics weren't lying that country really can heavily populayed

People love taking photos of themselves but selfies are not too popular, so dedicated individuals will bring whole stands with lights and shit like that, as though they were dedicated cosplayers. Yesterday we saw a middle aged woman doing a sort of VR anime idol stream (I can't remember what they're called but the one where your face is overlayed with an anime avatar) in the middle of the bridge haha

^ and people will take these sorts of photos in front of ANYTHING. Even if it's... Slightly inappropriate by some standards. It's kind of funny.

People are generally quite chill and don't take themselves too seriously

I'll add more if I think of more

[grandereception]

Finding the Ideal Space for Your Event: Function Venue Hire for Corporate Parties, Private Events, and the Best Wedding Venue

Selecting the right venue for your event is a critical decision that can greatly impact its success. Whether you're planning a corporate party, a private event, or a wedding, finding the ideal space is essential to creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for your guests. In this article, we'll explore the key considerations when it comes to function venue hire for these diverse occasions.

Corporate Party Venues: Setting the Stage for Success

Corporate party venues play a significant role in fostering team spirit and employee morale. The choice of venue can make or break the event's atmosphere. When searching for corporate party venues, consider the following:

Location: Is the venue easily accessible for your employees and guests?

Capacity: Does it have sufficient space to accommodate your attendees comfortably?

Amenities: Look for venues that offer the necessary equipment and facilities for presentations, entertainment, and catering.

Atmosphere: The venue's ambiance should align with the mood and theme of your corporate event.

By addressing these factors, you can find a venue that not only meets your practical requirements but also enhances the overall experience for your attendees.

Private Event Spaces: Personalizing Your Gathering

Private events, whether they're family celebrations or special occasions with friends, deserve a unique and intimate setting. When choosing private event spaces, focus on the following aspects:

Size and Layout: Select a space that suits the size and format of your event. Some venues may offer flexible layouts for various types of gatherings.

Catering Options: Check if the venue provides catering services or if you have the flexibility to bring in your preferred caterer.

Decor and Personalization: Evaluate the decor and ambiance of the venue and inquire about any personalization options to make the space uniquely yours.

Location: Ensure the location is convenient for your guests and aligns with the theme or purpose of your private event.

Private event spaces allow you to create a personalized and intimate atmosphere where you can celebrate with your loved ones in style.

Best Wedding Venue: Where Dreams Come True

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and finding the best wedding venue is crucial. Consider the following factors when searching for your dream wedding location:

Aesthetic Appeal: Choose a venue with a look and feel that resonates with your vision for your special day. The venue's style should align with your wedding theme.

Capacity: Ensure the best wedding venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list, taking into account seating, dancing, and other activities.

Services and Packages: Explore the services and packages offered by the venue, including catering, decorations, and coordination, to simplify your wedding planning.

Location and Accessibility: The venue's location should be convenient for your guests, and consider factors like parking and accessibility.

Your wedding venue should be a place where your dreams come to life, a backdrop that complements your love story and creates cherished memories.

In conclusion, the success of your event, whether it's a corporate party, private gathering, or a wedding, largely depends on the venue you choose. Function venue hire for these diverse occasions requires careful consideration of location, capacity, amenities, and ambiance. By addressing these aspects, you can find the ideal space that enhances the overall experience for your guests and ensures your event is a resounding success.

[engineer-gunzelpunk]

170 Years of Flinders Street Station (and railways in Victoria)

On 12th of September, 1854, Flinders Street Station, the oldest railway station in Australia was opened.

On that same day, the first ever trip on a steam engine was made departing Flinders Street to Sandridge (Port Melbourne) by the Melbourne And Hobsons Bay Railway Company.

The engine itself was a local built 2-2-2 Well Tank engine that took 10 weeks to build as locomotives ordered from Robert Stephenson and Co of England were not going to arrive in time.

She broke down a lot and services did not resume until Christmas of when the English locos Unfortunately she was not preserved and it is unknown when she was withdrawn and scrapped.

The Victorian Railways were created by an act of Parliament shortly after in 1856 and started operations in 1859; absorbing the Melbourne and Hobson Bay Railway Company and other private companies that had sprung up

Flinders Street Station both preceded and outlived the VR when it was split into the State Transport Authority and the Metro Transport Authority in 1983 and privatised in the 90’s.

Flinders Street Station itself beyond its function as a train station terminus holds a vital place in Melbourne’s culture. You ask anyone in Melbourne to meet ‘under the clocks’ and they will know what you mean.

There was, and still is, a popular ‘70s style black and white photobooth there that was operated for 50 years by a gentleman called Alan Adler, who sadly passed away yesterday, RIP.

Jess Norman and Chris Sutherland (above) now run the booth.

Flinders Street Station was a popular hangout for youths, but not so much these days.

Two Sharpies at Flinders Street Station sometime in the 1970s.

Did youze all know that Flinders Street Stations has a full sized ballroom?

Yeah.

It was originally a lecture hall for the Victorian Railways Institute, a school the VR had for educating enginemen. But it blossomed into a multiuse space that included a billiards room, a gym and a boxing ring, even a running track on the roof.

The VR in the ‘60s would hold public dances here as well. What’s less known is that few of these dances were Rock ‘n’ Roll dances where Oz’s Rockers/Greasers would gather, and the first generation of Sharpies would gather outside and taunt them and it would turn into a stoush.

*tucks this tidbit away for some VR humanisation AU stories featuring Rocker diesels and Sharpie steam engines*

It’s in a bit of shithouse state at the moment, but hopefully it will be restored in the future.

Here’s to you in your 170th year, Flinders Street Station… several months late but still kind of fitting since we are celebrating 200 years of railways this year.

[umgeorge]

Russell Wants Automated FIA Safety System To Suspend F1 Races After Accidents

George Russell wants Formula 1 to implement an "automated" safety system to suspend racing after incidents where crashed cars are stranded on track, as the Mercedes driver was in Melbourne.

Russell was left screaming for the race to be stopped after his wrecked W15 had bounced back onto the track and come to rest on its side following a crash while chasing Fernando Alonso. The aftermath of the crash caused considerable concern amongst F1 fans and observers, given the danger. Although the live broadcast cut to Russell's accident as it was progressing, once he had come to a stop it appeared to take a long time before the virtual safety car system was activated, and when it did the Mercedes had already been passed by Aston Martin's Lance Stroll. He had to be hurriedly warned by his now former race engineer Ben Michell, who from the Suzuka weekend is acting solely as Aston's head of performance optimisation, as Stroll was approaching the crash site near-blind due to the high-speed nature of the corner where the incident occurred. That knowledge was part of Russell's response over his own team radio in trying to get the race stopped, as was motorsport's tragic recent history where junior drivers Anthoine Hubert and Dilano van 't Hoff were killed after their crashed cars were then struck again in high-speed accidents at Spa. When asked by Motorsport.com if he wanted a new safety system to be implemented to avoid such a situation being repeated in the future, Russell replied: "It was an incredibly uncomfortable position to be in. You're on a blind bend, 250 kilometers an hour, right on the racing line with the car half-upside down, waiting for disaster to happen. Fortunately I had a ten second gap behind me, and I think it was ten or twelve seconds before the virtual safety car came out, but in the space of ten seconds you can have five, six, seven cars if that was on lap one of the race, and probably would have been hit numerous times, even with the yellow flag. We've seen close incidents before where a car comes back; Carlos in 2022 in Japan. I think we need to find a way that, if a car is in a danger zone, automated VSC straight away, within half a second or so, because those seconds count. Lives are at risk. We've seen it at Spa numerous times in the past, cars aquaplaning. I think it's time, with the technology that we have, to make steps in this area." The incident is currently under review by the FIA, which Motorsport.com understands will lead to a major change to the corner concerned for the 2025 Australian GP. It is also understood that, in regard to Russell's wishes for an automated process being put in place as part of a safety system update to cover such incidents, the governing body feels its existing procedures functioned as required in this instance. A yellow flag digital board display was activated 1.2 seconds after Russell hit the barrier, which then became waved double yellows-including physical flags being shown by nearby marshals-5.7 seconds after the crash started. Once 8.1 seconds had passed, the zone of track leading up the crash site had been placed into double yellow status, which is also transmitted to the driver via audio signals and cockpit displays for each car. It has also been suggested that a compounding and significant optics problem in this situation is that it takes several seconds from the VSC system being activated in race control for it to be displayed on TV broadcast graphics.

[focusonarchitecture]

Day 79 — Taking the Piss

Pissoirs are also known in French as vespasienne named after the Roman Emperor who set up the very first public toilets. The 'modern' pissoir is a French invention that provides a urinal in public space with a lightweight structure. The availability of pissoirs aims to reduce urination onto buildings, sidewalks, or streets.

Melbourne's cast iron public urinals have national historic, technological, aesthetic and social significance. They are the survivors of a group of about 40 structures erected between c.1903 and 1918 and connected to the new underground sewerage system. Cast by C. Monteath & Sons, Ironfounders of South Melbourne, they employed a prefabricated interlocking post and panel system which enabled the urinals to be assembled on site, or dismantled and relocated.

Being among the earliest public toilet facilities to be connected to the new underground sewerage system, the above ground cast iron urinals are unique material reminders of Melbourne's evolution into a healthier, cleaner and more attractive metropolis in the first two decades of the twentieth century. As rare surviving examples of a highly sophisticated prefabricated iron building system applied to one of man's most basic needs, they demonstrate local technological accomplishment. Functional in their design, and compact in their use of city space, the cast iron urinals display elegant ornamentation, particularly in the delicate upper grillework.

Photo: 2024

[bumblebeeappletree]

Hannah visits a tiny yard in Melbourne’s inner-city that is bursting with ideas and productive plants.

Hannah's in Melbourne to visit an inner-city patch that's small on space but big on plants and style. Garden owners, Judy and Andreas Sederof, have transformed a challenging block into a productive patch that is filled with color year-round. Situated in Brunswick east near the Merri Creek, it's filled to the brim with plants and ideas in every inch of this 66sqm garden. Judy describes it as “pretty eclectic, pretty crazy... I just collect plants. I'll see a plant and I’ll love it.” The site has been designed with the house built on the back boundary to leave a bigger space for a garden out the front. The diversity of the garden highlights different types of plants, which take advantage of the various soil profiles. Judy says, “we have quite deep, productive soil here which was nurtured, adding compost and mulch, but it really was pretty good to begin with. Whereas this side of the garden is really all on rock, so it had to be built above the ground.” There’s a lot of colour in this garden and Judy says this is due to her background in design and interiors, “I just love color and I'm always changing the color pallets and getting it to work together.”

Judy and Andreas have been designing sustainable houses for 30 years and built their own with the aim of being light on the land. Andreas says, “the four critical elements are glass, mass, insulation and most importantly orientation. We chose this block because the house faces north which is the optimum angle for sustainable building design, often called passive design.” In this home, the ceiling has 2-feet of insulation which Andreas calls “super-insulation” as it’s double the standardised requirements. “Everything in here is double or triple glazed... and to get this house to 9.5 stars, we had to provide way more concrete or brickwork than this house was planned for,” says Andreas. The sustainable principles that underpin the house can also be found in the garden. Timber used in the wicking beds is Cypress macrocarpa, which is known to be a sustainable timber, and “things like not having any hard surfaces so that the land absorbs the moisture, and it doesn't heat up the building,” says Judy. Pipes direct grey water from the shower to the garden, as well as “two squat rainwater tanks underneath the deck here that are connected to a pump; they collect rainwater from the roof. We use that a lot in summer,” says Judy.

With no bare ground in the planting style, Judy says, “one of the things is to plant heavily so it keeps weeds down. They also provide quite a lot more moisture to the site, so I mulch, but I don't have to weed very often.” Much of the garden is edible, including flowers like nasturtium, marigold and viola. Judy says, “In summer I can grow some of the bigger vegies like eggplants and tomatoes. Over winter, there's more low growing brassicas and herbs.” Judy utilises tent structures and shed walls to grow vegies vertically, as well as wicking beds that were built by Andreas. “They're really high functioning wicking beds,” says Judy, “They store a lot of the moisture, and it wicks up in the soil. I just have to put a light sprinkling of water on top when I'm growing seeds but mostly the vegetables root down quite well.” Judy takes her love of designing interiors to the outdoors and uses a lot of recycled materials, including baskets from old vineyards repurposed as planters, and an eclectic mix of mirrors, sculptures and ornaments found in hard rubbish collections. “I do collect things... I do it innately, I don't think about it that much,” says Judy and in a cool temperate garden when many plants lose their leaves, having these elements really hold the garden together. Even though it's a small space, there's more than enough happening year-round to keep Judy actively planting, improving and making the most of her little productive inner-city sanctuary. “It's a connection with the Earth to me,” says Judy, “it really grounds me... it's very soothing.”