Introducing the Uturner Series, where we visit and chat with friends of Uturn about all things second hand, what they are loving in Sydney and community!

Kicking off the series we have local heroes Michael Ico and Daniel Harrison of Superfreak. The boys behind Sydney's coolest new cafe, and our new Marrickville neighbours.

Dan

Hi Dan, tell us a little bit about yourself and your work. 

Born and raised in Sydney’s western suburbs, I started working with Mike Ico at his first cafe in Castle Hill over 10 years ago. The place was an institution hotspot and ultimately triggered my love and passion for hospitality. Mike then mentored and provided me an opportunity to open businesses with him, leading to my 4th venture in Superfreak. I work hard and I party hard, while I also am awaiting the birth of my first child with my wife Trisha.

What is a daily ritual that you practice?

Knock-off pint of Guinness at the Magpie Hotel with any other staff keen to join. (Not quite every day, hopefully).

Your favourite local (this could be a corner store, pub, art supply store or restaurant)

The Magpie then I guess! But my all-time favourite is Sultan’s Kebabs hehe.

What do you love about your suburb and why?

Everything is at my doorstep. Live music, the best food and bars in Sydney, and not to mention all my like-minded friends who have moved to the area.

In your opinion, the most underrated spot in Sydney.

I can’t say it’s underrated cause it’s very popular, but Fontana shocks me every time for how good it is. Should be a contender for one of Sydney’s best restaurants, if it isn't already.

Tell us about your relationship with second-hand fashion.

It’s the clothes I feel most comfortable in. Second-hand fashion is usually timeless, remains in style and I feel is often reflective of your own personality and interests. Nothing like rocking a vintage tee of your favourite band or wrestler.  

What has been your best second-hand find?

I have a Shakira tour t-shirt from when she was in her prime. That’s definitely the crowd favourite. My Stone Cold Steve Austin tee found in the midwest of America is close 2nd.

How do you connect with your community? (this could be your suburb, creative community or friends). 

Work. Probably why I fell in love with hospitality. You’re always involved socially with the community you’re located in - for better or for worse.

What does shopping sustainably mean to you?

I feel guilty enough as it is spending money on myself for things I ‘don't need’. Knowing I’ve bought something pre-loved for a fraction of the price softens the blow.

What’s something in the future (big or small) that you’re excited about right now? 

The birth of my daughter in November. Excited, but also shitting myself tbh!

 

 

Mike

Hi Mike, tell us a little bit about yourself and your work. 

I was born in Gippsland, Victoria. Raised in Mt Druitt Western Sydney and now live in Petersham with my wife Jess, my 2-year-old Rhodes and 8-week-old baby Paloma. I have been in hospitality since 2012 when I opened my first cafe at 23 years old and Superfreak is now my 6th venture. I’ve actually only just realised this is my career and I actually love everything about it.

What is a daily ritual that you practice?

My wife and I ask each other every day “What can I do for you today?” Which just allows each of us to say something we would like from the other person.

Your favourite local (this could be a corner store, pub, art supply store or restaurant)

Tooth and Nail hair salon in Marrickville

What do you love about your suburb and why?

Petersham, Is close enough to the action, but far enough away that it's peaceful. All of my neighbours are the best also.

In your opinion, the most underrated spot in Sydney.

 Panivore in Pagewood

Tell us about your relationship with second-hand fashion.

Growing up I remember always wearing hand-me-downs from family or friends even, but I definitely enjoyed going to markets when I was just out of school. Now I still thrift because I love that a lot of the brands are hard to wear if they’ve lasted this long.  

What has been your best second-hand find?

Metallica black album t-shirt from somewhere in Japan from a trip a decade ago.

How do you connect with your community? (this could be your suburb, creative community or friends). 

Definitely through the cafe and via food. By going to the markets on a Sunday morning or visiting other venues and running into people.

What does shopping sustainably mean to you?

I tend to wear the same thing all the time, so I buy minimally and only If I know I will wear it till it breaks. I appreciate clothing that lasts and has longevity.

What’s something in the future (big or small) that you’re excited about right now? 

I’m excited for Spring to hit and to be able to put some time into my garden at home haha.