Local Chick… Melanie Russell from Coogee

By James Hutton on May 19, 2018 in People

Coogee’s skin guru.

Coogee’s Melanie Russell was born in Bondi and has lived all over the Eastern Suburbs. Melanie recently opened her own dermal skin clinic, Select Skin, on Carrington Road, Coogee. She shares her local favourites with The Beast…

How long have you lived here? I’ve lived in the Eastern Suburbs all my life. I was born and bred in Bondi and have also lived in Randwick, Mascot, Maroubra, Coogee and Kensington.

Why do you live here? I couldn’t live anywhere else! Everything I want is right here – lifelong friends, my family, beautiful beaches and great schools.

What’s your favourite beach? Coogee Beach is my happy place. It’s where I walk and swim, and also help out at the surf club with water safety.

What’s your favourite eatery? Little Kitchen on Arden Street, sitting outside with the dog and a glass of wine on a Sunday afternoon.

Where do you like to have a drink? The DOG in Randwick, where I worked many years go, and the Coogee Pavilion are two favourites. The deck at South Coogee Bowling Club is a recent discovery.

Best thing about the Eastern Suburbs? The coastline. It really is amazing and I never tire of it.

Worst thing about the Eastern Suburbs? There are too many people who are focused on keeping up with the Joneses. Unfortunately it’s starting to change the community feel we all know and love.

Do you have a favourite sporting team? I was born into a Roosters family, but I have also developed a soft spot for Souths over time.

What music are you into at the moment? I’ve been listening to a lot of Fleetwood Mac lately.

Who is your favourite person? My children, Frances and Callum.

What do you get up to on the weekends? A swim (for most of the year), catching up with friends and family, and sitting in traffic while ferrying the kids to and from sport!

What do you do for work? I recently opened my dermal and skin clinic, Select Skin, on Carrington Road in Coogee, where I offer a range of skin treatments for teenagers, men and women. I had a skin clinic at The Spot for many years, so it’s great to be back looking after my local clients. You can check out my website at www.selectskin.com.au.

What’s your favourite thing about work? Helping people achieve their goals for their skin, especially when skin problems are overcome and their confidence is boosted.

Do you have a favourite quote? “You get back in life what you give out.”

Any other words of wisdom for readers of The Beast? If you love being a local, try and support local community causes and buy from local businesses.