Food trucks still can’t find a park in some of Melbourne’s most inner-city suburbs despite changes to the City of Yarra’s mobile food vehicle guidelines.
Owner of popular Mexican to-go provider, Taco Truck, Rafael Rashid said that even with the relaxed guidelines in place his business hasn’t had an application approved by the council.
“A lot of the issues that come up against food trucks are speculative,” Mr Rashid said. “I’ve never seen a police officer or had any problems with violence at my truck.”
A summary of changes to City of Yarra mobile food vehicle guidelines. More information can be on the Yarra Council website. Photo: Hannah McDonald
City of Yarra executive manager of governance, Ivan Gilbert said guidelines have been relaxed on a trial basis and hopes it helps to resolve tension between stakeholders.
“The perception from residents has been of drunken brawls, littering and noise. But since the trial process was introduced we’ve received no complaints,” Mr Gilbert said.
Fitzroy resident and fashion designer, Molly Herben said she would welcome food vans to her area, even if it meant they had to set up on her street.
“They’re a bit overpriced. But they bring an eclectic crowd and fun vibe that’s suited to suburbs like Fitzroy,” Ms Herben said.
“There is no street food culture in City of Yarra” – Rafael Rashid
New truck on the block, The Brulee Cart sold more than 400 creme brulees on debut at Village Melbourne’s Trailer Park event. Photo: Hannah McDonald
Co-owner of French-inspired dessert truck, The Brulee Cart, Bart White said he understands existing takeaway businesses and restaurants perceiving food trucks as a threat.
“We’re banging out restaurant quality food on the streets at a good price so it’s definitely competition,” Mr White said.
Mr Gilbert admitted the original guidelines, released by City of Yarra in September 2012, were rigid but said they reflected the sentiment of municipality at that time.
“Until a couple of years ago, virtually no legal or authorised food vans operated in Melbourne so it’s been a reactive process,” Mr Gilbert said.
Mr Rashid acknowledged City of Yarra was trying to ease restrictions but said his vans would continue to park in City of Moreland and Darebin for the time being.
“We want to operate where we’re welcome. We don’t want to park in front of someone’s house on a quiet residential street,” he said.
Owner of family-run business The Curry Truck, Ibi Youssef hopes to make a successful application to City of Yarra in the next financial year.
“We’ve tried once and they asked for a lot of planning paperwork that no other councils have ever asked for,” Mr Youssef said.
Mr Youssef prides himself on selling a thick, creamy curry from his business on wheels. Photo: Ibi Youssef
