Welcome to a place where grit meets grace, where the spirit of the Mornington Peninsula is captured in every thread, every drop, every creation. This is Dromana Habitat. We are more than a destination; we are a vibrant collective of artisans, distillers, brewers, growers, and makers, united in an unlikely and inspiring industrial heartland. Here, behind roller doors and within bustling workshops, the true essence of the Peninsula is harnessed. We weave the purpose of individual makers together into a true collective, connecting why and how they are inspired by their trades – and inspired by Dromana. From concept to consumer, Habitat makers harness grain (or grape), grit, fire and fabric through histories and hands.
Nestled between the rolling hinterland and the sparkling sands of the bay, Dromana Habitat is a testament to the power of community and the beauty of craftsmanship. It’s a place to pull back the curtain, to meet the custodians of modern artisanship, and to discover the stories behind the products you love. This is where provenance has a pulse, where you can shake the hand that shaped the surfboard, chat with the distiller about their botanicals, and learn the secrets of a master cheesemaker. There is great substance behind the Habitat community and its cohesive vision. The collective body makes and trades at the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, driven by hinterland, heritage, space and sand.
We invite you on a journey of discovery. Come and connect with the makers, immerse yourself in their world, and leave with a piece of the Peninsula’s soul.
The Habitat Experience: A Journey for the Senses
Imagine stepping away from the expected and into a world buzzing with creative energy. Dromana Habitat is an unlikely oasis of creativity, a precinct where the hum of industry is harmonised with the passion of artisans. Located in a vibrant Dromana industrial estate, this collective of more than a dozen businesses has transformed the area into a must-visit destination for those seeking authenticity. It’s a place that sneaks up on you, revealing its treasures as you wander from one workshop to the next.
Your visit is an invitation to go behind the scenes. Collect a map and meander between our makers, each with a unique story to tell. One moment you could be enveloped in the rich, comforting aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans at Little Rebel Coffee Roastery, the next, you’re feeling the cool, verdant calm of Verdant Dwellings, a lush indoor plant nursery that is a true green sanctuary.
This is a hands-on experience. Many of our makers offer workshops and masterclasses, providing a unique opportunity to learn from the best. You can try your hand at creating your own scented candle at Red Hill Candle Co., complete with a glass of local bubbly, or join a gin-making class to understand the intricate art of distillation. It’s these close encounters, the ability to shop directly from the source and learn from talented creators, that makes the Habitat a place to let inspiration thrive.
Between discoveries, there are endless opportunities to indulge. Enjoy a tasting paddle of coeliac-friendly, vegan beers and woodfired pizza at TWØBAYS Brewing Co, or settle in for lunch and live music at Jetty Road Brewery. The collaborative spirit is palpable; you might find yourself enjoying a cheese platter from Boatshed Cheese featuring produce from neighbouring artisans, a perfect example of the camaraderie that defines our collective. The precinct is a reason in itself for a day trip, offering a unique alternative to the region’s renowned wineries and beaches.
Meet Our Makers: The Heartbeat of the Habitat
The soul of Dromana Habitat resides in its people. Our makers are a diverse group of passionate producers, each an expert in their craft, drawn together by a shared commitment to quality and a love for the Mornington Peninsula. They are the custodians of skills passed down through generations and the pioneers of new, innovative trades.
The Distillers & Brewers: Masters of Grain and Grape
The Peninsula has long been celebrated for its wine, but a new wave of artisans is making its mark in brewing and distilling, and the Habitat is their epicentre.
- JimmyRum Distillery: Meet James McPherson, the passionate force behind Victoria’s first dedicated craft rum distillery. With infectious enthusiasm, James leads tastings, sharing his mission to showcase the incredible diversity of rum and prove it can stand alongside the finest single-malt whiskies.
- Bass & Flinders Distillery: Pioneers in the local gin scene, Bass & Flinders offer an exquisite range of gins, brandies, and liqueurs. Visit their distillery door to experience their craft firsthand and enjoy a finely made drink at their bar.
- Jetty Road Brewery: A cornerstone of the Habitat, Jetty Road is a bustling brewery open for lunch and dinner, often filled with the sounds of local live music. It’s a place to gather, relax, and enjoy a fresh, locally brewed pint.
- TWØBAYS Brewing Co: A haven for beer lovers, TWØBAYS specialises in gluten-free and vegan-friendly beers, ensuring everyone can enjoy a craft brew. With nine taps and delicious pizzas, it’s a popular spot for a casual meal.
The Vintners & Cheesemongers: A Taste of the Terroir
We honour the Peninsula’s rich agricultural heritage, celebrating the flavours that come directly from the land.
- BoatShed Cheese: This award-winning fromagerie is renowned for its handmade, artisan French-style soft cheeses. A visit isn’t complete without trying the Black Pearl Brûlée: an ashed goat’s cheese baked until molten and topped with a brittle, torched sugar crust.
- Rahona Valley: Experience the elegance of the Peninsula’s cool-climate wines at Rahona’s tasting room and bar. Specialising in sparkling wine, they offer the perfect accompaniment to a leisurely afternoon with their curated cheese platters.
- MP Cheese Merchants & The Vegan Dairy: Catering to all tastes, the Habitat also features the delightful offerings of MP Cheese Merchants and the innovative plant-based creations of The Vegan Dairy, famous for its cashew-based “goat’s cheese.”
The Artisans & Crafters: Forging Beauty from Fire and Fabric
The Habitat is a place where raw materials are transformed into objects of beauty and function, where traditional techniques meet contemporary design.
- Red Hill Candle Co: Founded by Ebony Flett, one of the driving forces behind the Habitat collective, this is a scent-lover’s paradise. What began as a home-based business is now a thriving workshop offering 40 different scented candles and popular candle-making classes.
- Everwear Denim: Step into the world of bespoke denim with Lee May, a craftsman with a history of working for Alexander McQueen and creating suits for royalty. Here, he uses traditional sewing machines to craft exquisite jeans from Japanese selvedge denim.
- Bass Surfboards: Feel the coastal spirit at Bass Surfboards, where Craig “Watto” Watson shapes custom boards. It’s more than a workshop; it’s a cultural hub that hosts surf movie and music nights, embodying the laid-back surf culture of the Peninsula.
- Verdant Dwellings: Owned by plant experts Jeff and Lauren Nielsen, this is a functioning growing nursery and retail store with over two decades of professional experience. It’s an indoor jungle where you can find an incredible variety of plants, pots, and accessories, get expert advice, or even join a workshop in their Greenhouse.
- Peninsula Fresh Seafood: An original tenant of the estate, Peninsula Fresh Seafood provides the freshest local catch, a direct link to the bountiful waters of the bay.
Our Philosophy: Grounded in Substance, Space, and Spirit
Dromana Habitat was born from a shared vision. While many of our makers have operated here for years, the decision to formally unite under the Habitat banner has created a fully-fledged precinct built on collaboration and community. There is alignment of purpose – grounded in substance, space, and spirit – which first attracted makers and trades to the Habitat, and continues to inspire us today.
This isn’t just a location; it’s a seal of identity. It represents a commitment to provenance, texture, and quality that runs deep. Every touchpoint is designed to connect personalities to their produce, to bring light, colour, and verve to the gravitas and grease of industry. The spirit of camaraderie is what makes this place truly special. You’ll find brewers recommending a local cheese to pair with their beer, and makers directing you to a workshop that’s starting down the lane. This collaborative ecosystem fosters creativity and offers visitors a richer, more interconnected experience.
The Habitat is also a seal of identity and quality for us all to seek, grasp, and trust. It’s a promise that behind every product is a person, a story, and a deep connection to the Mornington Peninsula.
Your Gateway to the Mornington Peninsula
Dromana Habitat is the perfect starting point or centrepiece for your exploration of the magnificent Mornington Peninsula. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Dromana is a charming bayside town nestled at the foot of the iconic Arthurs Seat.
We encourage you to make a day or a weekend of your visit. After immersing yourself in the creative energy of the Habitat, why not explore the stunning natural landscapes that inspire our makers?
- Ascend Arthurs Seat: Take a ride on the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola for breathtaking, panoramic views across Port Phillip Bay towards the city skyline. At the top, you’ll find the beautiful Seawinds Gardens, featuring walking paths and sculptures by William Ricketts.
- Discover Coastal Wonders: From the calm, sandy shores of Dromana Beach, perfect for swimming and picnicking, to the wild, rugged beauty of Cape Schanck with its historic lighthouse and dramatic rock formations, the coastline is a source of endless adventure.
- Indulge and Unwind: The Peninsula is a haven for relaxation and gourmet experiences. Pamper yourself at the world-renowned Peninsula Hot Springs, with its natural thermal mineral pools. Or, continue your culinary journey by visiting some of the region’s celebrated wineries and farm gates in nearby Red Hill.
- Explore and Play: Walk or cycle the coastal Bay Trail from Dromana towards Sorrento, or for the more adventurous, tackle the Two-Bays Walking Track. The Peninsula is also a premier golfing destination, with world-class courses carved into the rolling sand dunes of ‘The Cups’ region.
Dromana is not just a place on a map; it’s a lifestyle and a gateway to unforgettable experiences. The Habitat adds a new, exciting layer to this popular destination, offering a place where creativity and inspiration thrive.
Connect With Us
Find Your Way to the Habitat
We are located in the Dromana Industrial Estate, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Address:
Dromana Habitat
40 Collins Road, Dromana VIC 3936
(Accessible via Collins Rd off Nepean Hwy or Boundary Rd)
Hours:
As each maker operates their own business, opening times vary. We recommend checking with individual makers for their specific hours or to book a tour or workshop. Many businesses are open daily, with a vibrant atmosphere from morning until evening.
Connect, Convene, and Encounter
We invite loyal consumers – and discoverers alike – from across the world to connect, convene and encounter on their own journey of discovery. Whether you wish to enquire about a specific product, trade with our makers, or collaborate on a new venture, we welcome you.