But it’s been at least 20 years since she’s lived in the city full- time. After time in Melbourne and Sydney, then spending 10 years in the United Kingdom, she was ready to return. 

“It was time to come home. I wanted to be part of the growing,  vibrant community,” Ms Aberline said. 

So along with English husband Paul Riley, a chef with 20 years’  fine-dining experience in the UK, Ms Aberline has returned to Warrnambool and the couple have set up shop in the central business district. 

Their new business, Graze Urban Cafe and Deli, opened in Kepler Street on Wednesday with a focus on good coffee and great food — using local and international produce.

“We’ve gone with the urban cafe theme,” Ms Aberline said. “It’s something a little bit different. We have cheese boards and meat platters on the menu and customers will be able to buy the produce and replicate them at home.

“We have a selection of continental European meats on offer, cheese from England and France,  as well as from local producers L’Artisan and Apostle Whey. 

“We also stock local Gorge chocolates, our teas come from Daylesford and our coffee is from a Sydney-based company, Will and Co. We are their only outlet in a regional area.” 

Ms Aberline said they were attracted to Kepler Street because of its burgeoning foodie scene. Next door is vegetarian and organic eatery Day Kitty and across the road a popular sushi deli. 

“The buildings are so character-filled as well. The walls aren’t perfectly smooth, but each bump tells a story, even if we don’t know what it is,” she said. 

“We pulled out all the fittings in the shop and renovated, but were very careful to keep the characteristics which helped tell the building’s story. I think we’ve ended up with a fun, comfortable environment. 

“We are both very keen to be part of the city’s growth. We want to support it by offering different products to increase the diversity the city has.” 

jwoolley@fairfaxmedia.com.au