Our Local Business Highlight shines a spotlight on Rhythm Expresso – a well-known Aura eatery and meeting point connected to an important community charity.

Name: Murray Boyton

Role: Founder

Q. How long have you been operating in Aura, and what changes have you seen in the area over time?

A. Since moving to Aura in 2021, Rhythm operates a charity with a community café employing people with additional needs and bringing relief through food hampers.

Since opening, undoubtedly the biggest changes we have seen is the cultural diversity of people moving to the area.

People from all origins are beginning to make Aura home which is exciting to embrace.

Q. What do you love most about doing business in Aura?

A. Being at the ground level of a new community is an exciting opportunity to help shape and bring awareness about our cause of bringing relief and empowering people.

Through all things Rhythm, our desire is to see people become a better version of themselves.

Q. Can you share a memorable success story or milestone your business has achieved here?

A. Due to the nature of our community work, seeing people with autism experiencing reduced social anxiety is always a highlight.

Additionally, supporting students through the local breakfast club at Baringa High School is very rewarding.

But above all that, being nominated for the Fisher Community Awards in consecutive years is a highlight.

Q. How does your business contribute to the local community, and what community initiatives are you involved in?

A. We support the local Breakfast club at Baringa State High School, we started a program called the Aura Meal Exchange which was a big success however due to ongoing weather challenges, we have put a pause on that for a season.

Our annual Parcels of Peace Christmas Hamper program is growing year on year.

Last year, we delivered approximately 250 hampers across our community through the generous support of our amazing community.

This included working with families that had a parent in prison.

Q. What challenges have you faced as a business owner in Aura, and how have you overcome them?

A. The cost of living undoubtedly poses challenges for everyone, the rising cost of electricity and the impact of running a charity is always a challenge – we rely on the generosity of our community to help us give back to the community.

We are able to diversify somewhat, through the proceeds of our café and through providing support for people with additional needs, but the vision is often greater than the resources available.

Q. What future plans or upcoming projects do you have for your business, and for Aura?