Jill Stark is an award winning author, journalist and mental health advocate. And even better – she’s a Brunswick local. Jill shared with us her favourite places in Brunswick, what she loves about the community and how she lives mindfully.
Q1. How did you end up in Brunswick?
I have always lived in the inner north because I Iove the vibe and when I moved to Melbourne from Edinburgh 20 years ago it just felt like my kinda place. When I was house hunting to buy my own place I fell in love with an apartment in East Brunswick and was fortunate enough to make it mine. That was 11 years ago and I’ve been here ever since.
Q2. What do you like best about this community?
I love how creative our community is. There are so many artists, comedians, writers and performers, and as a writer myself, it feels like the right fit for me. It’s also an incredibly generous, kind and compassionate community and I’m always heartened and inspired by how people look out for each other and come together in times of crisis.
Q3. Where’s your favourite place to exercise?
I go to 9 Round on Lygon Street. I’ve been a member since it opened five years ago and I absolutely love it. The trainers are so supportive and have become good friends over the years, seeing me through some tough times in my life. Sometimes it feels more like therapy than a gym! I also love walking along the Merri Creek and at Princes Park.
Q4. Where’s your favourite place for a coffee?
Full confession: I don’t drink coffee. I’ve never liked the taste, which I know is not something you’re meant to admit as a Melburnian! But I do love a chai latte, and Code Black do a pretty good chai.
Q5. Where do you get your best work done?
I have written three books sitting in my study in my Brunswick East apartment so that’s been a productive spot for me! But I’ve also done a fair bit of work in various cafes around the neighbourhood like Small Block, and East Elevation before it closed.
Q6. Where do you go when you need to be alone?
I really love sitting in Methven Park listening to the sound of the wind whistling through the trees. It’s such a tranquil spot. I also love climbing to the top of the hill at Jones Park and looking out on the city.
Q7. Where do you go when you want to socialise and have the best night out?
As someone who quit drinking a couple of years ago I am LOVING Brunswick Aces, Australia’s first non-alcoholic bar. It has such a great vibe, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and more than 100 non-alcoholic options, which is such a treat for a non-drinker. I also love Mr Wilkinson, which is where I had my 40th a few years ago. Jack and Kitty and the whole team are just the best.
Q8. What are three words to describe Brunswick?
Vibrant. Creative. Diverse.
If you want to learn more about Jill’s work, you can buy her books or follow her Instagram.
