Alliance Française de Melbourne Is Celebrating the Launch of Its New French Hub in the CBD with Mulled Wine and Live Music
Indulge in French cuisine and brush up on linguistic basics, as this community hub combines heritage and connection.
Francophiles rejoice: a new community hotspot is set to launch in the coming days, as the Alliance Française de Melbourne opens the French Hub on Bourke Street. Conceived as an inviting cultural and educational space, this new venue is just the latest chapter in the organisation's storied past, which traces back to 1890, when art teacher Berthe Mouchette opened the country's first Australian Alliance Française in Melbourne.
Bringing together French language, culture and creativity under one roof, this purpose-designed space spans two expansive levels. Featuring a sunlit 300-square-metre terrace, fully equipped event spaces, classrooms, a library and a digital museum, connecting with and feeling immersed in Victoria's Francophile community comes naturally thanks to this focal point situated in the heart of the city.
"We're thrilled to welcome Melburnians to our new home — a warm, inclusive space to learn, connect and celebrate all things French," says Myriam Boisbouvier-Wylie, President of the Alliance Française de Melbourne board. "The French Hub represents not just a new address, but a renewed vision for our community."
Centred around the terrace, the hub's design offers subtle nods to classical French architecture through parquet flooring and elegant ceiling trims. Meanwhile, the main corridor serves as a reference to the Seine — Paris' most famous waterway — connecting visitors to the centre's varied zones while providing a comfortable networking space.
Launching on Saturday, June 21, Alliance Française de Melbourne will kick things off at the French Hub with a free, family-friendly open day themed around 'A Warm French Escape'. Running from 12–5pm, visitors can expect live music, French cuisine and interactive cultural experiences. Sip and snack on tasty market-style treats like mulled wine, raclette and crepes, then head over to the croissant bar to enjoy a freshly baked pastry from Noisette, with sweet conserves provided by Bonne Maman.
On the terrace, French and New Caledonian artists will serve up tuneful performances. Then, inside the hub, visitors are welcome to take part in free 30-minute beginner French lessons — perfect for those interested in enrolling in a course or just curious to learn langue de Molière basics. "We want people of all ages and backgrounds to feel welcome here," says Boisbouvier-Wylie. "Whether you're a fluent speaker or a first-time visitor, there's something for everyone at the French Hub."
Alliance Française de Melbourne's French Hub opens Saturday, June 21, at 140 Bourke Street, Melbourne. Head to the website for more information.
Images: Geena Glass
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