Q&A with blogger Emma Currie on life and family in Mornington
A Langwarrin blogger is redefining the old-school mothers group with a modern-day wine club to connect and support new mums. Here Emma Currie talks about family time, business and life on the Mornington Peninsula.
South East
Don't miss out on the headlines from South East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
Emma Currie is redefining the old-school mothers group with a modern wine club that connects and supports new mums.
When she’s not planning child-free meet ups and booking inspiring speakers the Langwarrin blogger and marketing whiz is busy exploring the region with son Charlie, 2, and husband Rob.
The busy mum of one spoke to Leader about life, business and family time.
SKATE PARK EXPLOSION SHAKES NEIGHBOURS
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE’S FOOD VAN PROVIDES FOOD FOR THOSE IN NEED
WAVE OF BEACH BOX BUYS FLOODS PENINSULA MARKET
Tell me about the wine club you started for other new mums.
I started the MPM wine club to connect with more local ladies. I also believe making time for yourself is really important as mums as we wear so many hats. I organise guest speakers each month to come along and talk about a topic. You don’t have to be a member to come along just simply purchase a ticket prior to the event. We also give back to the amazing local charity Mums Supporting Families in Need with a raffle draw collection and collecting goods at most events. I feel like the time at the wine club has helped me connect, learn, relax and recharge while pushing me out of my comfort zone with public speaking.
It sounds like it’s been a real hit. Were you surprised?
Yes I am surprised about the amount of women that come each month and that a lot of the women come on their own to the events. It’s a very friendly and supportive group. Often I’ll see someone standing alone and start to head in their direction to make them feel welcome but someone else beats me to it! It grows each month which shows that there is a real need for mums to have an outlet. I’ve had one of the mums tell me that the events have changed her life.
How do you handle the juggle between paid work and being a mum?
I believe in doing what feels right for you at the time. I’m all for change so if it works
great but time and circumstances can change things. I’ve made changes this year to
spend more time with Charlie and follow my passion of providing events to mums. I
feel lucky to work in an environment where they have supported me through the
changes.
What has the blog taught you about yourself?
The region has an incredible network of women that are so inspiring and so supportive. There is so many great places and things happening that I could be blogging constantly. So it’s about focusing on what I’m passionate about, so most of my blogs of late have focused on the events and venues they have been held. The blog has helped me to reach out to more women through social media and made more connections.
What’s the best thing about raising a family on the Mornington Peninsula?
The sense of community. It’s such a family friendly region and a great community, with so many activities throughout the year to entertain the whole family.
What activities did you do as a child that you now enjoy with Charlie?
I grew up in Seaford and spent the summer going to the beach right across from Station St. I had my first job on Nepean Highway at a local hairdresser, which is now a barber. I love taking Charlie to the beach there and then popping over to the shops. So many great little boutiques including Yo-ko original, Love Illuka and then the cafes Guildfords and Spanish restaurant. It’s great to see that it’s all expanded but still has the same friendly feel it did over 20 years ago.
What’s your favourite free/low cost family activity?
Parks, one of the region’s beautiful beaches, McClelland Gallery, the Australian Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne or a walk at Point Nepean or along Rosebud foreshore.
Rainy day solution when you just have to get out of the house?
We tend to go to indoor play centres. I’m a big fan of Lollipops at Carrum Downs and we recently discovered Kidz Shed, which is a new centre in Hastings. I also really like the Messy Shed in Mornington. Charlie can explore and I can relax for a moment with a coffee!
The region is known for its wineries. Is it possible to experience them with little ones in tow?
Yes! Going to a winery is actually a great option for families. My favourite is the Green Olive. They’ve really catered for the kids with their in-ground trampoline and large outside grassed area. And they serve tapas, coffee and wine all day so if you’re like me and up early it’s a great option! I also love Montalto. With sculptures scattered throughout the winery, it’s the ideal place for kids to explore. The Piazza Cafe is great for a casual lunch but it’s a popular spot so you need to get there early if you want to secure undercover seating.
If a visiting family had just one day in the region what should their itinerary include?
Just one day? I’d start with a ride on The Eagle at Arthurs Seat followed by a winery lunch and an afternoon at Peninsula Hot Springs. Then dinner on the beach or with a beach view — Cracker Jack Café, the Baths (Sorrento) or Waves (Frankston) are some great ones.
What about those families that have been coming here forever? What’s a new experience that you would recommend?
We recently had a special family birthday to celebrate and had lunch at The Baths at Sorrento and then took a Bongo Transit to explore Millionaires Walk. It was such a fun way to get around and something a bit different. The kids will love riding the Transit and the adults will love seeing how the other half live. (Portsea is the richest postcode in Australia and the walk — which is part of the Sorrento Portsea Artists Trail — takes past you some of the most exclusive properties in the nation).
You can follow Emma at marvellousmp.com or join her tribe of wine club mums at facebook.com/MPMwineclub
MORE NEWS
G FLIP TO PERFORM AT SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE ON NEW YEAR’S EVE