It seems there’s some science behind Melbourne’s delicious coffee, and it all lies in the tap water. Have a read of what’s going on in the city today while you sip on a perfect coffee containing just the right amount of minerals.

The Headlines

• There has been one of the biggest product recalls in years in supermarkets across Australia as traces of E. coli have been found in spinach products. This means dozens of products, including pre-mixed salads, stir-fries, and spinach bags, have been stripped from the shelves and recalled. Bin that salad bag in your fridge just in case, and keep an eye in the supermarkets for more details.

• Hector’s Deli has officially expanded into baked goods with the launch of Hector’s Bakery, and it’s bringing a whole lot more than just bread to the table. Expect crispy baguettes, buttery croissants, and some creative takes on Aussie classics—like their house-made finger buns. They’re also naturally serving delicious coffee. If you’re already a fan of their cult-favourite sandwiches, you’ll want to check this out.

• Everyone says you have to go to an AFL game whilst in Aus, but what about a Matildas game? The Australian women's football team are far more successful than the men’s and are widely considered national heroes after making it to the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2023. They're playing Argentina in Melbourne in May, and tickets for the game come out today at 4 pm if you want to hop on the women's footy hype.

Where to Eat and Drink

Payday feeling like a long way away? The Catfish in Fitzroy has your back. This craft beer pub pours from twelve rotating taps across two levels and serves up what might be the only proper Philly cheesesteak in Australia. Mondays are the real MVP, though—$5 pots, $10 pints, and cheesesteaks starting at just $12. If Tuesday is more your vibe, swing by for comedy night and keep an eye on their website for gigs and events—loads of them are free.

Where to Live

These two English girls are looking for a new “bestie” to join their Richmond flat. Their holy trinity of passions is chicken nuggets, a bottle of wine, and a digicam photoshoot. Rumour has it they also love a game of netball—with the potential for things to get rather competitive. The flat itself is a work in progress but already looks like a lovely place to live.

Core selling point: no bond required.

Where to Work

If you're willing to go to new levels to get yourself a free gym membership, Crunch Fitness in Richmond are on the hunt for Brand Ambassadors to work 15 hours per week to spread the word. This is one for the extroverts, as you would, unfortunately, be approaching people on the street and handing out flyers to promote the gym—but at least you get to get fit for free. Be warned, you may have to dress up on the street in an unspecified outfit whilst on the job.

Where to Go

Trying reformer pilates for the first time can be intimidating, but Good Times Pilates have created the most welcoming environment for any newbies. They have three intimate Northside reformer studios, a come-as-you-are approach, and no more than ten people per class. They have classes for whether you're wanting to leap around the room, recover, get stronger, or get a sweat on. There’s an intro offer on right now for first-timers: $59 for four classes—plus, the studios are very nice to look at.

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