Hello Eastern Suburbs Mums Community, I’m Liliana Rubiano, a proud mum of two beautiful kids—Sofia (1.5 years) and Thomas (3 years)—wife to Fernando, and the owner of Tolu Australia, a beachwear brand. I’ve been living in Sydney for 15 years, and it has truly become my home. The Eastern Suburbs is where I work, relax, meet people, take my kids to explore, and enjoy quality time with my husband. From the stunning beaches to vibrant local events, there’s no place I’d rather be.
As a business owner, I’m active at local markets like Bondi Markets and the Double Bay Christmas Fair, offering beachwear products sourced from Colombia and Turkey. I love being involved in the community and appreciate how the Eastern Suburbs’ councils care for families and small businesses. The support I’ve received from locals has been incredible, and I’m excited to connect with and contribute to this wonderful group.
Where and how long have you lived in Sydney’s East?
I’m originally from Colombia, and I moved to Sydney 15 years ago to study for my Masters in International Commerce. I lived in Paddington for 2 years in 2015 and I met my husband here, and we decided to settle in Sydney, which has felt like home ever since.
Three words that describe life in the Eastern Suburbs?
Community, Beauty, Beaches
How many children?
Two children—Sofia (1.5 years) and Thomas (3 years).
Favourite Park?
We adore Rose Bay, Watsons Bay (especially Camp Cove), and Vaucluse (the Vaucluse House high tea is a treat). Our day-to-day park is Lyne Park Playground in Rose Bay, which is even better after its renovation. We also love the The Ian Potter Children’s Wild Park Garden in Centennial Park, a hidden gem, for catch-ups with other mums. Centennial Park is our top spot for family celebrations—it’s perfect for large gatherings, with plenty of space for the kids and pets to run around.
Favourite Beach?
Camp Cove has become our go-to beach. It’s peaceful with shallow waters, and I can relax knowing my kids are safe. Plus, the Camp Kiosk Café is a bonus, serving delicious food (and they’re stocking my beach towels this summer!).
Favourite Kid-Friendly Cafe?
Homestead at Centennial Park is my top pick. It’s a great spot for mum meet-ups with delicious food, parking, amenities, and a playground where the kids can play while we chat or have a picnic.
Favourite Coffee Spot?
Indigo Café in Double Bay is my favourite. The coffee, food, and service are top-notch. Afterward, I love walking over to the Intercontinental Hotel’s rooftop for a drink with a view.
Favourite Date Night Place?
For date nights, I enjoy Otto in Bondi or Icebergs Restaurant, but my all-time favourite is Catalina in Rose Bay. The food, service, and views are always perfect.
Where in the East have you yet to explore and would like to go?
I’ve heard great things about Kutti Beach from my market colleague and can’t believe I haven’t been yet. I also discovered the Vaucluse Amateur Sailing Club recently, and as a family who loves water sports, we’ll definitely be checking it out for summer activities.
What would you like to see improve in the Eastern Suburbs?
I’d love to see more public transport options to access the more remote beaches in the area.
Favourite Local Shop?
El Indio in North Bondi serves the best Colombian arepas—my favourite is The Queen Arepa with chicken, smashed avocado, and cheese.
Favourite Wet Weather Location?
The Double Bay Woollahra Library is a fantastic spot for rainy days. It has a kids-friendly floor, activities, interesting books, cafes, and even private rooms for some quiet work time. It was my “first office” when I started my business 7 years ago and I wanted to go out of home to concentrate on building my business.
Favourite Local Family Weekend Activity?
Sailing at the CYCA Sailing Club in Rushcutters Bay is a family favourite. My husband and I started sailing before we had kids, and now we enjoy short weekend sails with the kids in the harbour, followed by lunch at the CYCA restaurant.
Work or SAHM?
I’m both! I’m a stay-at-home mum during the day and dedicate time to my business, Tolu Australia, early in the mornings and during nap times. I’ve been running my business for 7 years, handling everything from design to logistics to marketing. It’s like having another child, but in its teenage stage! I love balancing family life with my passion for my business, and I’m so grateful for the flexibility to be there for my kids while pursuing my work.
Motherly Advice?
Happy mum, happy kids (and happy hubby). Parenthood can be challenging, but there’s nothing more rewarding than giving yourself fully to your children. It teaches me to appreciate the simple things in life and to see the world through their eyes. Time flies, and the memories we make will last forever—let’s make them good ones. And always treat others the way you want to be treated—we need each other, especially as mums.
