My Melbourne Weekender with Sonia Marinelli

Sonia Marinelli has been a staple on Melbourne television screens for over a decade.  Come with us as we take in of her favourite places and get to see another other side of Sonia, the Melbourne local and Mum to four young children! 

We visit one of Sonia’s favourite places where she can enjoy the great outdoors and the serenity at an organic apple orchard. We’ll see where this busy Mum gets energized and where the kids can run wild in nature. And who does this Melbourne local barrack for at the AFL?  We’ll find out!   

Petty’s Orchard, a historic Melbourne site since 1853, offers a variety of over 200 rare apples and organic produce. It’s a perfect family weekend destination with a café and beautiful views. The orchard also houses the Heritage Fruit Society, a non-profit dedicated to preserving heirloom fruits. Enjoy exploring Australia’s apple heritage while indulging in organic treats and fair-trade coffee.

Oak Park is a middle Melbourne suburb lying approximately 11 km North of Melbourne’s CBD and is located within the City of Merri-bek local government area (Traditional owners are the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people). 

Francis Winifred, a vibrant café at Francis & Winfred Streets, offers creative meals, house-made pastries, and Allpress Espresso coffee. Popular among local athletes and families, it features a nostalgic interior and an all-day menu with options like Turkish eggs and burrito bowls. Enjoy a latte with a twist or a decadent shake while grabbing a homemade sweet treat.

JP Reserve, near the café, offers scenic parkland routes. Sonia can guide you through the parking and paths. Moonee Pond Creek winds through the park, with trails stretching from Gladstone Park to Flemington Bridge. Head North for a native environment at Strathnavar Reserve, or South for more city trails and greenery.

FOR MORE INFO:
Sonia Marinelli
@soniamarinelli

Petty’s Orchard
@pettys-orchard

Francis Winifred Cafe
@franciswinifred94
franciswinifred.com.au