From derelict to destination: how two Bungendore mums created a unique retail collective
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What started as a simple desire to support local artisans has blossomed into The Malbon – a one-of-a-kind retail collective that’s become the beating heart of Bungendore.
For years, the abandoned building at Bungendore’s entrance told a disappointing story. Once home to a thriving antique dealer that drew locals and travellers alike, it had become a vacant eyesore that hardly welcomed visitors to this charming village just 45 minutes from Canberra’s city centre.
Sally and Meg couldn’t bear watching this prime location languish any longer. These two friends recognised what many Canberrans seeking weekend escapes would soon discover – that this building held the key to revitalising not just Bungendore’s entrance, but its entire creative community.
“We knew of a few creative locals who were interested in a space but weren’t enough on their own,” explains the duo, “so the idea of a community collective was born.” What started as a simple desire to support local artisans has blossomed into The Malbon – a one-of-a-kind retail collective that’s become the beating heart of Bungendore.
The Malbon is a one-of-a-kind retail collective.
The transformation didn’t happen overnight. Starting with a handful of tenants selling antiques, gifts and homewares, The Malbon quickly caught the attention of local creatives who began placing their handmade wares in-store. Today, over 30 vendors call The Malbon home, from retired artists finding new purpose in their craft to side-hustlers turning passion projects into small businesses.
The Malbon is home to local artisans. Photography by Jerusha McDowell.
“We’ve been amazed by how many clever locals there are in Bungendore and surrounds,” Sally and Meg reflect. Many vendors take turns serving customers, creating those delightful moments where shoppers meet the makers behind their purchases. It’s the kind of authentic connection you simply can’t find online.
The magic of The Malbon lies in its ever-evolving nature. Customers regularly comment that it’s different every time they visit – a treasure hunt where you might discover anything from handcrafted ceramics to locally-grown flower arrangements by Jera from Meadow and Wilder, whose micro-flower farm adds whimsy and charm to the space.
But The Malbon’s story extends far beyond retail. From the beginning, Sally and Meg knew food would be essential to complement the shopping experience. Enter Eric, Bungendore’s well-known hospitality veteran of 17 years, whose food van opens at 7 am to serve a steady stream of loyal customers. The moment they overheard someone at the post office saying “see you at Eric’s,” they knew they’d created something special.
Eric’s food van dishes up delicious fare on the daily. Photography: Jerusha McDowell
Will, Meg’s husband, had the idea for The Lake Room – Australia’s only museum dedicated to Lake George history. This community-driven space celebrates one of the country’s most studied lakes through multimedia displays, photographs and mementos, with an area where locals can share their own lake experiences.
The Rushe Gallery and Providore round out the offerings, making The Malbon a true destination where visitors can shop, dine, learn and connect all in one beautifully restored space.
The Rushe Gallery. Photography by Jerusha McDowell
For Sally and Meg, balancing The Malbon with full-time work and raising seven children between them might seem overwhelming, but their approach is refreshingly practical. Their kids are integral to the business, unpacking boxes, cleaning and gardening in exchange for hot chocolates and milkshakes – gaining invaluable small business experience along the way.
“Neither of us had any retail experience,” they admit, “but we have complementary skills and a solid friendship which has been an incredible strength.” Their partnership exemplifies how women can support each other to create something meaningful while managing busy family lives.
Photography by Jerusha McDowell
The community response has been nothing short of extraordinary. Locals regularly say they can’t imagine Bungendore without The Malbon, and the collective has become a hub for book clubs, Lions, Rotary and men’s shed meetings. There’s even a local who lights the fire each winter morning at 7 am when he grabs his coffee, and the rugby team has been known to pop in after training to help move furniture.
Dogs are welcome inside – a delight for visitors who can browse with their four-legged companions in tow. It’s little touches like this that make The Malbon feel like an extension of the close-knit Bungendore community rather than just another shop.
Photography by Jerusha McDowell.
What started as frustration with a derelict building has become a celebration of creativity, community and the unique charm that draws so many Canberrans to seek out authentic experiences beyond the city. The Malbon proves that sometimes the best destinations aren’t planned by committees or backed by corporations – they’re created by passionate locals who simply want to share what makes their community special.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape to the coast or seeking that perfect handmade gift, The Malbon offers a genuinely unique experience that celebrates the best of regional creativity. After all, there’s something rather magical about buying something made with love by hands you can shake.
Find The Malbon at 2 Malbon Street in Bungendore or visit them online at themalbon.com
