'Melbourne offers new experiences all the time. There is always something exciting happening, available at a reasonable price.'

In Melbourne in winter, football is a fanatically-followed melodrama. Players are feted as conquering heroes or vilified as bumbling losers, assignations which often change on a weekly basis. It takes a robust character to survive in the hurly-burly of the Australian Football League (AFL). This has been Joel Bowden’s workplace since 1996.

Joel has now played over 250 games for Richmond, making him one of the Tigers’ dozen longest-serving players. A left-footer notable for his sharp football brain and superior kicking ability, he has long been a pin-up for the Richmond faithful. However sport is only one of his many facets: he is also a players’ advocate, a partner in a North Carlton café, a community volunteer and father to two young children. Part of a large and sporting family, having learned the game in Central Australia alongside indigenous players, his foundations are strong and his perspective is wide.

“The lifestyle of an AFL footballer is different for all players,” Joel says. “For me at present, with football not taking up the entire day, it allows for family time. It is also an opportunity to lend a hand down at the café and pursue other interests while looking to the future and where I may be able to make a contribution.”

FAVOURITE DAY TRIP: Yarra Valley or the Mornington Peninsula. They are both so close and offer a perfect balance of nature, good food and good wine.

FAVOURITE FOOD EXPERIENCE: The kingfish entrée at Matteo’s. 533 Brunswick St, North Fitzroy, 03 9481 1177, www.matteos.com.au

FAVOURITE NATURE-BASED EXPERIENCE: Walking through the Botanic Gardens in spring. www.rbg.vic.gov.au