I recently purchased a very large oval dutch oven from Robins for a remarkable price. The product was made in Australia and compares very favourably with the French variety which retails at more than double the price. Congratulations Robins for supporting Australian industry. I've used the dutch oven several times and the performance has been more than I could have expected.

Approximate cost: $140.00

The Cookie Man biscuits and slices are a special treat. I have given the boxed biscuits as gifts to friends as they are beautifully presented and the feedback has been excellent. My husband and I often take a break when shopping to have a cappuccino, which comes with FREE biscuits. This establishment uses Fair Trade coffee and it is a superb brew. BRAVO COOKIE MAN. A very friendly and relaxing shopping experience.

Approximate cost: $3.40

I dislike ham that is too salty, wet or fatty and I have found the perfect product at Mr Meaty. It is fresh, dry and delicious. The butchers are always accommodating with different cuts of meat and their motto is "service with a smile". Also, please try their sausages - their range is astounding.

Approximate cost: $22.00

I purchased a telescope as a gift for my son and I was impressed with the knowledge shown by the sales assistant. My son was delighted with his gift and it was exactly what he needed. The store has many unique products and I must admit I succumbed to purchasing other items which provide great entertainment for the family.

Approximate cost: $1,200

The store is nicely presented and stock items not found in other retail outlets. Their prices are very competitive and the staff appear to have a greater knowledge of the products they sell than those in the adjacent department stores.

Go Vita staff are experts in all aspects of the "keep fit" trade. This store stocks a good range of exercise equipment. Body building and strengthening supplements are also available. Go Vita card members receive a 10% discount and I find prices very competitive with all health food outlets. The staff are always willing to offer good advice according to one's needs.

Lewis Hair Salon provides quality hairdressing services at a very reasonable cost. In February this year I decided to try the salon because they offered a $100 package on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, which included a permanent ammonia-free hair colour, cut, blow-dry and GHD straightening iron. The outcome was amazing – one of the best outcomes I have ever received, considering I have been charged twice this amount for the same service at other hair salons. I have been back several times and the outcome is always the same. The staff are well trained and very competent.

Approximate cost: $100

DVC Discount Vitamin Store carries a well-stocked range of supplements, body building and organic products. On the first Tuesday of each month, loyalty card members receive the benefit of a 25% discount of the recommended retail price on all purchases. The friendly staff are well trained to give advice on the efficacy of supplements and are helpful in all aspects of the industry.

I patronise Jamaica Blue because they serve Fair Trade coffee. The Blue Mountain variety is especially delicious. A loyalty card is available which delivers a free coffee when a cumulative total of $20 is reached. The food, both savoury and sweet, is fresh and tasty and the service is friendly and efficient. The shop is well located with comfortable seating and I watch the world go by while enjoying a delicious morning tea or lunch. I recommend the fruit scones which are served hot with lots of jam and cream. I also enjoy the spinach and fetta tart with the generous serve of well dressed salad.

Approximate cost: $12.00

They try very hard to deliver great advice and service - a top quality store. The assistant cloned an old garage remote when the original supplier advised it could not be done because my code was in analogue and they would have to re-fit the garage device to digital at a substantial cost to me.

Approximate cost: $104.00