David Llewellyn is the editor of Willy and Hobby and has over ten years’ experience in the media and communications industry, working with some of Australia’s largest commercial broadcast and digital entertainment companies. He started Willy and Hobby as literally “a hobby”.
“I had just won lotto, or maybe it was a redundancy, so I needed a project to work on while I was on the job hunt. I never thought much about what Willy and Hobby was or could be. It began as a ‘Things to do in Williamstown’ blog, so I was basically giving myself things to do while I was looking for work. The website traffic started to increase from there, eventually I redeveloped the site, changing it from a blog to what is essentially an online version of what a local newspaper used to be.”
The west is an area David has known for many years.
“Most of my family hails from Newport, where my mother grew up and was one of twelve children. My grandmother is still going strong at 96-years-young and believe it or not is still to this day living in the original family house in Newport.”
David has learnt a lot about – and through – his audience, and has a close affiliation with the western suburbs of today.
“I feel a sense that the community is more engaged with what is happening around them. What is exciting at the moment is that we are already seeing the signs of what the future might hold, with neighbours coming together and building their own edible community gardens. Communal and sustainable living is going to be one of those fascinating things to watch as it evolves.”
He enjoys walking his pampered pooch Jacob, a Cava-tzu with a human name, as well as chatting with people in the community. He also loves anything and everything within the arts. Whether that involves creating or enjoying the creations of others, if it is on stage or screen, David is into it.
As for his favourite hangouts?
“There are so many great places to enjoy in the west, but I am a foodie and if I am in Yarraville, I am at the Mantra Studio Kitchen and Bar. You can also find me in Williamstown at The Greenery Store and Dining. You will have to flip a coin for Altona because I share myself between the Birdcage Altona Cafe and Bezirk.”
David will be appearing at the Williamstown Literary Festival on June 17th as part of a panel discussion “Has Facebook Killed Citizen Journalism?” For more information and tickets, visit willylitfest.org.au
