Positioned perfectly at 454 Smith St, Collingwood lies a store that caters specifically for every of Allayialis’ (and plenty of like-minded heavy music lovers’) needs. It’s a peculiar place: on the first floor lies a traditional, fully operational barber that offers haircuts and beard trimmings, alongside a general store that stocks everything from vinyl records to clothing. Situated on the second floor is a tattoo studio that’s the envy of many. And on top of that, the store frequently throws parties and plays host to touring music acts.
“I lived in North America for ten years. When I came back I decided to open a store that brings everything I loved about it into the one place.” Allayialis says, explaining the roots of the dream store. “At Eureka Rebellion Trading we have a tattoo studio which hosts some talented artists (Myles Paten, Aaron Jameson, Pete Pav and Lone Wolf) who are passionate about what they do; a traditional barbershop that provides haircuts and classic shaves; a record collection specialising in collectable rock and heavy metal genres, and a gift shop which provides men’s products (shaving, hair), apparel and art prints. A lot of customers who come in for a hair cut or tattoo often pick up a shirt or record on their way out. Having this unique combination under the one roof brings everything I love together for everyone to enjoy.”
Allayialis has managed to further incorporate his love of heavy music into the store by hosting meet and greets with some of his favourite acts when they tour Australia, subsequently, making a name for both himself and his store.
“We have been lucky enough to host some awesome events here at ERT such as in-store meet and greets (Every Time I Die, Suicide Silence, artist John Baizley), live in-stores (Kadavar, Gay Paris), album listening parties (Killswitch Engage’s Disarm the Descent) and a VIP Q&A with the cast of Sons of Anarchy. Through these events we have gained opportunities such as hosting a pop up ERT backstage at Soundwave, where we got to tattoo and cut hair all day for the bands. Also a lot of touring acts now come by the store for shopping and tattoos or cuts when they’re in town.”
Part of Allayialis’ approach with the store is to frequently hold events to get some of the local music enthusiasts in and give them the opportunity to enjoy the store in a different atmosphere. One of these events is just on the horizon too, with Eureka Rebellion Trading celebrating Friday the 13th in style with an in-store event.
“Our tattoo artists have done a flash day every Friday the 13th since we’ve opened,” Allayialis explains. “Because there’s only one this year we decided to team up with Sailor Jerry and offer $20 Sailor Jerry tattoo flash designs. Our barbers will also be offering $25 cuts and free beard trims all day. We are expecting a really busy day as traditional style tattooing and the art of barbering has definitely made a big comeback in the last few years.
“We do a lot of work with Sailor Jerry,” he continues, “and for this event they’ll be providing free drinks from 12pm.”
BY KEATS MULLIGAN
