NWMPA: nurturing North and West Melbourne’s growth

At Hyperlocal News (publisher of North West City News), we’ve had the privilege of observing North and West Melbourne’s steady rise, and much of that story owes a debt to the North & West Melbourne Precinct Association (NWMPA).

Over the past four years, this volunteer-led group has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support our local business community. For those considering investment in the area, joining the NWMPA offers a chance to play a part in a shared effort to make North and West Melbourne a better place to trade, while connecting with businesses that share a determination to see the precinct thrive.

The NWMPA has gently shaped the area’s identity with efforts like the “Live, Love, North and West Melbourne” campaign, which shines a spotlight on our arts, dining, and cultural treasures. The initiative not only celebrates these local features but also encourages residents to shop locally, with the iconic grocery tote serving as a symbol of this effort. 

In a further demonstration of its commitment to both community engagement and local business support, over the past four years, the association sponsored seasonal events including the Queensberry Cup, North Melbourne Primary School Fete, and various festive activations. These sponsorships, along with the use of the gift card program, helped drive more than $50,000 in local spending, directly circulating funds within member businesses. This approach not only supports popular community events but also reinforces the NWMPA’s dedication to fostering both cultural vibrancy and economic sustainability locally.

The NWMPA team has put in considerable effort to showcase the diverse range of businesses within the precinct. Through carefully crafted Trader Profile newsletters, it has spotlighted more than 100 member businesses, blending professional photography with engaging storytelling to promote them and enhance their online presence. Members receive top-notch images for their own use and are featured on the association’s website.

With robust SEO backing, the site helps direct visitors to their doors, providing a practical lift to their visibility. It’s a simple yet effective way to help businesses reach new customers, making the precinct that much more noticeable to investors.

The NWMPA has a strong online presence, including a comprehensive website featuring a regularly updated “What’s On” calendar and active social media channels, which are a handy resource for locals and visitors alike. Last year, we were pleased to work with them on The North & West Melbourne Directory local printed guide, shared with the Melbourne Visitors Centre and four neighbouring suburbs. It’s been a great success, drawing new faces to the area and reinforcing its charm – a subtle signal of the precinct’s potential for those with an eye on the future.

The association also brings the community together through events like the Irregular Festival during Melbourne Design Week 2024. It was a celebration of local ideas and talent, encouraging collaboration and sparking ideas that could benefit the area. Seeing members like Manze, Lumen, Bread Club, and Whitebark step up with unique food offerings, Willows and Wine & Twang Brewery manage a welcoming festival bar, and Mörk Chocolate share delicious, sweet treats. It was a gentle reminder of what a connected community can achieve.

Adding a touch of character to the precinct, the NWMPA teamed up with the City of Melbourne to commission Blender Studios to create a mural on the corner of Errol and Queensberry streets. What began as a simple wall is now a striking public art piece, dressed in beautiful graphics – a quiet nod to the area’s creative spirit.

For those running businesses or considering investment, NWMPA membership offers practical support. The association organises networking opportunities – think social media training with The Digital Picnic, coffee cupping with Small Batch Roastery, design events, or mental health workshops – all aimed at helping traders grow together. Soon, members can enjoy extras like painting and collage workshops with Creative Spaces artists Sarah and Parul, or free CorePlus classes – reformer Pilates, hot mat Pilates, or yoga. 

Looking ahead, the NWMPA hopes to strengthen its ties with the City of Melbourne, keeping the precinct’s economy and appeal on a steady path. Membership contributions support these efforts – funding events, small improvements, and promotion that make North and West Melbourne worth a closer look. With its diversity, honest business community, local pride, arts, and food, this precinct has a lot to offer, and the NWMPA’s quiet work helps it shine.

We’d encourage businesses to consider renewing their membership and joining this journey. The NWMPA’s progress shows what a collective effort can do for our local economy – Hyperlocal News sees it as a modest but meaningful opportunity worth exploring.  Step in with the NWMPA and help North and West Melbourne flourish. •

For more information: northwestmelbourne.com.au