As a local resident and small business owner in Maylands, ive received a few requests to provide another update on the state of play in Maylands. We've been free of homicides for some time, the police chopper is much less frequent and the more 'colourful' characters around the hood have declined in presence...... dso in short; we're on the march towards the gentrification zone - although depending on your view of aesthietics, the Ross's Salvage site multi res development put a dent in that.
Good news for some (those who profit from gentrification) and bad news for others (those displaced by gentrification).
Apparently we are seen as Mt Lawleys 'little sister', but this doesnt fit well with me. Maylands is more masculine; tougher, dirtier, not so well groomed and a whole lot more grounded in reality and its working class roots. A 'brother' that didnt fit well into the 'norms' of society. Someone people steer away from and ultimately they end up drifting to the outer edges to those which tend to be more open minded and welcoming of his 'type' - its an exploratory path which always results in a deeper appreciation of different cultures - especially those also on the edges. This is why Maylands has been home to ethnic minorites, diverse religous backgrounds, creative artists, ground breaking musicians and the gay community for many a year. It results in diversity and a community which doesnt judge who or what you are - its welcoming, very genuine and from my background - 'very' Australian.
It is the same reason out of towners are attracted to it and see potential in the area. Not to mention various real estate websites highlight Maylands as the next 'hot' thing (a term straight out of the fashion industry?) and why wouldnt they when its the same distance to the CBD as its name-dropping, prudish, well groomed, older sister Mt Lawley.
Changes are afoot once again in Maylands; the Coffee Strip continues to buzz with super passionate local businesses and enough caffeine to fuel a go kart. Eighth Ave is undergoing a flush out of old long term tenants as land owners realise its time for a rent rise. The corner house tenant that used to run 'punk' house parties has moved on. Graffiti is now called 'street art' and allowed to stay on walls thanks to Studio 281. The good old gun shop is running as usual, however we gained another licenced venue to Swallow Bar, with Henry on Eighth opening and more venues such as Lyric Lane are on the cards. The Street Festival and Hawkers Markets gained momentum thanks to L.A.C.E. and the Maylands Business Association has increased member numbers like never before. No wonder my suburb profile has jumped the edgy mark and tipped towards the 'hip' zone.
We're far from full blown gentrification thats for sure, and most locals would agree they are happy about the current trend. For me, im pro-development and all for progress and change, as long as its good quality, creative and sympathetic to the history of the neighbourhood - well considered design (in any industry) can do this. So for those looking to move into the neighbourhood, leave your baggage at the bridges (yep they've been upgraded too....). Maylands has a very vibrant future - its what we call 'community' and you're all very welcome.