Precinct: Busselton, Wa

We Reveal Australia’s Must-visit Shopping Destinations and Uncover Their Hidden Gems

- Ellie Griffiths

AS HUMPBACK WHALES return to coastal waters and life in the coral reef on the south-west tip of Western Australia begins to swim up a frenzy, there is no better time to pay a visit to Busselton. A short walk from the famous Busselton Jetty (pictured above) to the heart of the town lies a shopping strip that is home to assorted boutique and specialty stores, selling a wide variety of homewares, artworks and greenery for every room.

STOP 1 | Hobo and Hatch

Detour down Kent Street to a row of indie shops known as Fig Tree Lane, and you’ll find Hobo and Hatch. The modern bohemian label was born after owners Leona and her husband, Matt, relocated from France to Australia in 2013. Supporting the slow fashion movement, and celebrating their strong connection to Nepal — the pair spent more than 10 years there — the label has built up a strong following, with Nepalese wool products becoming their hottest items. “We know exactly where each of our products was made,” says Leona. With an array of unique and locally handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces, candles, blankets and clothing, the couple’s love of celebrating simple beauty is easy to see.

Must-have: Handmade soft wool blanket, $89.

Visit: 38-40 Fig Tree Lane, 55 Prince Street, [phone].

Open: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat, 9am-3pm.

Bookmark: www.hoboandhatch. com.

STOP 2 | Phil Hollett Photography