Orphans Gather for Alternative Melbourne Christmas

New Zealand-born jeweller Welfe Bowyer was one of a number of creative Melburnians the Age’s Kylie Northover interviewed this December who spent Christmas less traditionally, banishing baubles and putting holly on hold.

“Being a Kiwi, when this time of year rolls around, it’s time to send out some messages, see who isn’t fleeing the city for the traditional family gathering and who is keen to get together for an ‘orphans Christmas’. Just your mates and some festive activities,” Bowyer explains. “Not to mention an empty city all to yourself.”

“Last year we had the pleasure of living in a Brunswick house with a huge back garden (by Melbourne standards), complete with some authentic Australian details; red rocks, gumtrees, Hills Hoist and a hammock.

“So, naturally, we hosted the celebrations. We love to entertain. My wife came up with the crucial details, sewed bunting to hang around the verandah, as well as some large paper pompoms and a gumtree wreath.”

Originally from Wellington, Bowyer creates bespoke jewellery from ethically sourced leather and stones. In 2004, he was the recipient of the New Zealand Institute of Architects Dulux Student Design Award.