As Melbourne emerged from its latest lockdown to enjoy its first weekend of freedom, photographer Julia Sansone hit the streets to capture the sights of a city in celebration mode for Concrete Playground.
Not even cloudy skies could contain Melburnians' excitement for IRL catch-ups, brunch dates with mates and pints at the pub. Punters were out in force to enjoy some well-deserved meetings with those closest to them, and to support local businesses that have been closed for months.
GABRIEL, FITZROY
Smashed avo was back on the menu as cafes enjoyed the company of dine-in customers again.
PAPIRICA, COLLINGWOOD
Owner Yutaka Matsuda said he was excited, but nervous, to have people back into the cafe. He said the space is "so much warmer when people are in it".
The venue will stick to takeaway until November 5, which was Melbourne's original reopening date.
SALLY'S RETRO FASHION, FITZROY
This Smith Street vintage store is one of the businesses offering outdoor retail until indoor retail is allowed again. Owners and staff say they're very excited to be able to give people some fun and excitement — and to be part of the community again.
TERROR TWILIGHT, COLLINGWOOD
This group of friends were happy to finally swap the Zoom catch-ups for IRL hangs — and to tick this Collingwood cafe off their list, together.
Terror Twilight owner Kieran Spiteri said his team was feeling relaxed and happy to be back.
THREE MONKEYS, PRAHRAN
Merlette enjoyed a well-deserved rose and said she was loving being around people again.
ARCHIES ALL DAY, FITZROY
Gertrude Street came alive again, with brunch-goers flocking to fill its streetside beer gardens and parklets.
THE GRACE DARLING, COLLINGWOOD
Many hard-earned beer garden pints were sunk across the weekend.
UNION HOTEL, WINDSOR
BUILDERS ARMS HOTEL, FITZROY
PEPE'S ITALIAN & LIQUOR, CBD
Bartender Allie said she was stoked to be able to get back behind the bar and do what she loved.
Josh, Persia and their pup Pepe celebrated Josh's birthday in the beer garden and are looking forward to returning to all their favourite dog-friendly venues. They fittingly kicked things off with a bar that's got the same name as their doggo.
CHINATOWN, CBD
Chinatown fired up once more, with punters happy to wait streetside for a spot at their favourite eateries.
SECTION 8, CBD
This famed laneway bar threw open its door to patrons who soaked up DJ sounds from Disco Mediterranea.
PIDAPIPO, CARLTON
Celebratory post-lockdown scoops were on the menu at Lygon Street's Pidapipo.
Images: Julia Sansone for Concrete Playground.