Hi, I’m Adele -  founder of Mess 

 

I am a mum of three under four (yes, chaos is my love language), and the face behind what many families call the best messy play in Melbourne.
 

I get asked all the time if I’m a teacher or have a childcare background - I don’t. I’m actually a qualified chef 😂
Then I worked as a travel agent for 8 years, so I spent most of my 20s travelling which is a huge passion of mine.

‘Mess’ came about from my love of planning my own children’s parties, my obsession with colour, my love for kids, and just how much I enjoy messy play and painting - so combining those things and basically throwing a mini party twice a week is honestly so fun.

When I couldn’t find Messy Play locally, I built it. We now run weekly toddler messy play sessions in Ravenhall, right at the Eating Station Café - a brilliant undercover space with loads of fresh air, natural light, and some of the best coffee and food in the area. Parents can relax with a latte while the kids go wild in themed sensory zones packed with slime, paint, foam, water, playdough, and more.

I love spending time outdoors whether it’s a bushwalk, the beach, or an ocean swim…but more than that, I love a really strong marg

We also host messy play parties across Melbourne - think birthday magic with a sensory twist. We bring everything, set it up, let the kids explore, and then pack it all away. Easy.

What makes us different? 
• We’re not just a playgroup, we’re an experience and a community. 
• Our location combines the vibe of an outdoor park with the comfort of a café.

• We’re obsessed with making every session feel special, welcoming, and wildly fun.
• And the reviews speak for themselves -  we’ve got a whole lot of love on Google from local families.
 

 

My latest project - Mess' Messy Play Art Smocks! NOW HERE!!
I believe mess is part of the magic but cleaning up doesn’t have to be.   After using art smocks several times a week on hundreds of little ones at my messy play sessions, I quickly learned what worked and what didn’t. I saw first-hand how important strong, durable, quality fabric was, how crucial full coverage could be, and how often cheap smocks just didn’t hold up to the chaos of real play and constant machine washing. So, I decided to craft my own.​ Our exclusive Mess Art Smocks are designed by me, someone who lives and breathes messy play. They’re made from high-quality, waterproof materials, built to last through painting, sensory play, water activities, and even mealtime mess. These long-sleeve toddler smocks double as baby feeding bibs, and are easy to wipe clean or throw in the wash. Easy to clean and cute to wear. 

 

I hold a current WWCC and Public Liability Insurance - available any time upon request. 

Now! Lets make a Mess!