Tara Murray
Donnybrook residents are making the most of the fresh air at a new cafe and park in Mirvac’s Olivine estate.
The Gumnut Park and Adventure Playground is inspired by Australian author May Gibbs’ iconic Snugglepot and Cuddlepie characters.
Set among the established 200-year-old red river gum trees, Gumnut Park and Adventure Playground offers multi-layer experiences for children of all ages.
Adjoining the playground, is the not-for-profit Shared Cup café, the first of its kind in the area.
The cafe, which was meant to open in July, finally opened last month after COVID-19 restrictions eased.
Cafe manager Derek Bradshaw said he had been working with Mirvac for a couple of years to establish the cafe. He already owns a similar cafe in Warrandyte.
“It’s about creating spaces that people can gather and live in,” he said.
“It’s about people first and making sure that it’s a viable and sustainable enterprise.”
Mr Bradshaw said the cafe had a real focus on the community and wanted to get local people involved.
They look to employ local residents who may find getting work challenging, due to factors like mental health, disability or mental health issues.
“A core part of what we’re doing is that we want to support people with employment and different opportunities,” Mr Bradshaw said.
“We want to get in as many local suppliers as we can and be a champion for local produce.
“We’ll look to have a community pantry there so people can get their staples instead of heading to a supermarket.”
