Welcome to Watsonia - Our Little Main Street with a Big Heart

We’re so glad you’re here 

Welcome to Watsonia Shops, officially known as the Watsonia Traders Association, though most people simply call us Watsonia Shops. 

The traders of Watsonia have been part of this community for decades, long before we officially incorporated as a volunteer-led traders association in 2000 (under Consumer Affairs). Like most volunteer organisations, our story began with a purpose: to support the marketing, promotion, economic development and advocacy of the local businesses that make our main street so special. 

The people behind the precinct 

Over the years, our committee has evolved. New faces, fresh ideas, but one thing has never changed: a shared passion for Watsonia. 

Every person who’s served on our committee has done so voluntarily; giving their time freely while running their own business, managing staff, raising families and balancing busy lives. It’s an incredible act of commitment, and one we’re deeply grateful for. 

For more than 25 years, our past and present committee members have helped shape the story of Watsonia, showing what’s possible when local people come together for their community. Their contribution, energy and heart are just some of the reasons our main street continues to thrive. 

Our committee is made up of both local business owners and commercial property owners, each bringing a unique perspective on how to keep Watsonia thriving. Together, we share the same goal to ensure our main street continues to grow, evolve and stay connected to the people who call it home, and to make sure every decision we make benefits Watsonia Shops traders. 

The 2025–26 Committee of Management 

The Watsonia Traders Association (Watsonia Shops) is proudly governed by a volunteer Committee of Management, made up of passionate local business and commercial property owners. 

Our 2025–26 committee includes: 

President: Eddie Sophia, Watsonia Pizza 

Vice President/Secretary: Tracy Viola, Furbabies Pet Grooming 

Treasurer: Shaun Paine, Rex Paine Timber and Hardware 

Committee Member: Bruno Lima, Mr Martins 

Committee Member: Linda Grindlay, property owner 

Every member contributes their time and expertise to help our main street grow, thrive and stay connected to the people who call Watsonia home. 

Behind the scenes: a lot of heart (and a little red tape) 

Behind the scenes, we’re supported by Rania as our Precinct Coordinator - the person who turns our ideas into reality and keeps everything running smoothly. From governance and reporting to permits and marketing (all in just ten hours a week!), she helps make sure Watsonia keeps moving forward. 

Like our committee, we’ve been lucky to work with incredible Precinct Coordinators over the years, each bringing their own strengths and ideas to Watsonia. Our current coordinator shares that same passion for the community and is helping us create new and unique experiences that truly reflect us. Ideas that feel authentic to Watsonia, not just copy-and-paste concepts you can experience anywhere else. 

Of course, like any community group, business network or sporting club, there’s a lot that happens quietly in the background. Permit applications, funding reports, red tape - all the fun stuff no one sees. But we face it with optimism, because we know how important it is to keep this precinct strong and future focused. 

We’re proud to represent the businesses that make Watsonia thrive, and right now, we’re entering a new

era in our story… an exciting, modern rebrand that celebrates who we are today. Think fresh bin wraps, flags and digital assets…our quarter-life glow-up, if you will. 

Our committee - open, collaborative and passionate 

Our committee meets regularly throughout the year (ten times in total) to plan, discuss and make decisions about how we can best support the precinct. 

We actively encourage all traders to attend these meetings, share feedback, and be part of shaping Watsonia’s future. It’s the best way to stay connected, learn from each other, and make sure every voice is heard. 

There’s always room to grow, improve, and do better, and we love that our community isn’t afraid to show up, speak up, and support each other. 

More than shops - it’s our community 

Sure, we’ve got great cafés, barbers, florists, grocers and professionals who keep the precinct humming. But what really makes Watsonia shine is the connection. 

It’s the barista who remembers your order. The hairdresser who’s seen three generations of your family. The baker who always sneaks an extra roll into your bag. Tasting Australia’s best dim sims (IYKYK). These are the moments that make a place feel like home, and why so many people love being part of our little patch of Melbourne. 

Watsonia might be small, but it’s real. It’s personal. It’s a main street that still feels like a neighbourhood. 

Our events tell our story 

If you were at our Halloween 2025 celebration, you’ll know exactly what we mean. More than 2,000 locals filled Watsonia Shops and the new Town Square with colour, costumes and that unstoppable community buzz. It was one of those afternoons that make you stop and think; this is what local life is meant to feel like. 

And this is just the beginning. Our calendar is full of moments that bring people together, including our Christmas in Watsy Square event this December. There’s always something happening, and you’re always welcome to be part of it. 

Come for the shops, stay for the community 

We’re proud to represent the local traders who make this place what it is. They’re the heartbeat of Watsonia, people who work hard, support each other, and show up for the community every day. 

So next time you’re nearby, drop in. 

Grab a coffee. Buy your groceries. Shop locally and say hi to the people behind the counter. 
Because when you spend time here, you’re not just shopping; you’re part of the story. 

Come for the shops, stay for the community. 

What’s next 

This blog is our new way of sharing the stories that make Watsonia special - from trader spotlights to event recaps, local favourites, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of what makes our main street tick. 

We’re proud to represent such a passionate, hardworking community of traders, and we can’t wait to keep telling their stories. 



See you soon, down the main street, coffee in hand. 

🧭 Plan your visit 

📍 Watsonia Shops - Watsonia Road, Watsonia VIC 
🚆 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD on the Hurstbridge Line 
☕ Come for the shops, stay for the community 

Follow @Watsonia.Shops on Facebook and Instagram for event updates, trader stories and what’s on next in Melbourne’s north-east.