Meet the Locals – Michelle, My Country Escape

In Canungra, you’ll find a little shop called My Country Escape. And for owner Michelle, it’s just that — a country escape.

From a business opportunity in August 2015, to a self-confessed adopted child, Michelle never imagined in her wildest dreams that My Country Escape would become the place it is today.

The store prides itself on its selection of gorgeous homewares and gifts, from timeless treasures to unique items for something a little different. With a focus on working with Australian brands, the store Humidity, Olive et Julie, Namaste, Brave & True, The Shanty Corporation, LJC Designs, Stitch & Hide, Rare Rabbit, Pink Woods and Emma Bridgewater just to name a few.

Visit Scenic Rim spoke with Michelle about My Country Escape and why she loves the Scenic Rim.

Tell us how about your journey to find My Country Escape

After my husband, the three kids and I came over from New Zealand to Western Australia, we were looking for something, but we weren’t sure what… until we found Tamborine Mountain and it felt like home so we put down some roots. Then, in August 2015, My Country Escape came into my life and has become my passion. It’s been like a fourth child!

I want everyone to feel welcome and relaxed at My Country Escape, whether they browse for a few minutes or stay for a while. I feel like I have built a little community within the store, as I have the most amazing team and I’m so grateful for them. The business makes me so happy and, best of all, it makes others happy!

What do you love the most about the Scenic Rim?

We have lived in the Scenic Rim for the last fifteen years and we just love it. Yes, it’s easy to love with plenty of beautiful, peaceful, green spaces but it’s so much more. It’s the people that make this place — a rich tapestry of old and new, with good old fashion values. We feel so very lucky to be here in our amazing community. My husband and I still like to travel (granted not so much in recent times) but there is no place like home — the Scenic Rim is where our heart lies.

Where’s your top tip for eating and drinking in the Scenic Rim?

Talk about spoilt for choice when it comes to food! Anyone who knows me knows I love to eat and follow that up with a good glass of wine. If on Tamborine Mountain, I love to pop into Provedore for one of their gourmet sandwiches and the coffee is fantastic.
Down in Canungra, I share the love around the town because we have so many great cafés and they all do amazing coffee. Everyone needs to try Ginja Ninja, Canungra Hub, Cafe Metz Canungra and Bean In Canungra.

I also need to tell you about two more places I love to go. O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard do an amazing picnic lunch in such a beautiful setting, it’s a great place to take friends. And just up the road a little further is Sarabah Estate Vineyard — the service, food and wine is outstanding. After that little explanation, I either need to go on a diet or go find a piece of cake…

Where would you send a visitor?

There’s plenty of places that come to mind! First, is Robert Sowter Park on Tamborine Mountain, also known as Hang Gliders Lookout. It is such an incredible view and a great place to stop, no matter the weather there is always something interesting to see.

The other is our beautiful little park right in the centre of Canungra. It has a real country town feel and is a true nod to history with the most amazing children’s playground. It’s so lovey to see locals and visitors having picnics, coffees and or just taking a little pit stop.

Any other tips for something preparing a trip to the Scenic Rim?

Be prepared to feel yourself relax and enjoy the very best of what Australia has to offer: great food, coffee, wine, views, walks and experiences. Plus great shopping, unique and diverse items right in your own back yard. Make sure you take your time and don’t rush otherwise you may miss the very best parts!

Find out more about My Country Escape, shop online or pop in and say hello to Michelle at www.mycountryescape.com.au