Who is Piera Maclean?
I have been working between the cultural and community sector in Melbourne for about a decade. Currently, in my role as the Program Manager at Open House Melbourne, I open up some of our city’s coolest places and spaces to the public.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I like talking to and meeting new people. I always toy with the idea moving home to NZ to open up a little wine bar with a friend. Or I think I would enjoy nursing if my idea of working in a hospital wasn’t so romanticised by Grey’s Anatomy.
Who inspires you and why?
Honestly, my friends – they’re all so clever and smart and funny and interesting. The lessons I learn from them, I weave into my work and play.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
World peace.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
We have a small family bach on a very quiet beach in New Zealand with no cell-phone reception. Watching the ocean on a wintery afternoon with the fire going and a book is my favourite place to be and it’s always a proper restful holiday.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
To all my favourite food spots, food is the best way to get to know a city and we’re so lucky in Melbourne. N Lee, A1, Footscray Market and Arnold’s are a few of my top picks. I’ve also picked up so many fun facts about the city from this job so I like to drop those in when meandering about.
What are you currently reading?
I’ve just started reading Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro – it’s really quirky and a bit unsettling. I get the feeling a bit of a plot twist is coming for me.
What are you currently listening to?
Lots of news radio, Mushroom Case Daily and the Romeo + Juliet soundtrack.
Happiness is?
Hot chips from Super Tasty Rooster
What does the future hold for you?
The Open House Melbourne Weekend! Beyond that, I’m not really sure but I think that’s exciting.
Piera is the Program Manager at Open House Melbourne – which takes place across Melbourne on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July 2025. For more information and full program, visit: www.openhousemelbourne.org for details.
Image: Piera Maclean (supplied)