From Camper Van to Community Cornerstone: The Inspiring Journey of Martelle Jackson
In the heart of Port Kembla, a unique barber shop stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit. The Shave Cave, located on Wentworth Street, offers more than just haircuts—it provides a welcoming atmosphere with music playing, a pool table at its centre, and an owner whose story inspires everyone who walks through its doors.
A Journey Through Homelessness to Hope
Martelle Jackson's path to business ownership was anything but conventional. In 2021, the single mother found herself homeless after rental price spikes forced her out of accommodation. With limited options, she made the difficult decision to live in a camper van while sending her five-year-old daughter to live with her father.
"I stayed in my camper van, and I would set my alarm for 5 am," Jackson recalls. "I was on the side of the road so no one could see me. I was just parked up at the beach in Port Kembla. It was the middle of winter. I'd have a swim as soon as I woke up, then a cold shower on the beach, and then I'd get on with my day."
During this challenging period, Jackson was studying music and temporarily stepped away from her background in barbering and hairdressing. She believes this detour happened for a reason, as it allowed her to leave classes and search for housing during the day.
Forty-Nine Rejections and One Life-Changing Yes
Jackson's search for stable housing proved incredibly difficult. Over two and a half months, she faced rejection from forty-nine different rental properties. Yet during this time, she discovered something precious—the supportive community of Port Kembla.
"I found out about Hope Street at the top of the road here, and that's really what showed me what Port Kembla was about," she explains. "I rocked up there, and I was really embarrassed to be in the situation I was in. They were able to do my laundry for free with Orange Sky, a company that helps people who are homeless, and they helped me every day I went there."
The community support extended to practical assistance, with volunteers printing out available rental listings. Eventually, Jackson secured accommodation in nearby Warrawong. Shortly after, she noticed a shop for rent in Port Kembla and decided to take a chance.
Building The Shave Cave from the Ground Up
Approaching the real estate during the middle of COVID-19 restrictions, Jackson presented an unconventional proposal. She asked for free rent through lockdown to set up the business, followed by a modest $300 weekly rate afterward.
"After being knocked back for 49 houses, I wasn't expecting it," Jackson admits. "Then they came back with a yes."
With limited financial resources, Jackson transformed the space through sheer determination and resourcefulness. She laid the floors herself, painted the interior, and sourced almost everything from marketplace platforms, with only the chairs being purchased new. Four years later, The Shave Cave stands as a thriving business that Jackson describes as "the best thing I've ever done."
Creating a Community Hub with 'Vibe'
The Shave Cave has evolved into more than just a barber shop—it has become a community gathering place. One wall features a collection of posters, prominently displaying Port Kembla Festival materials. Jackson has participated in every iteration of the festival since opening her doors.
"The first year I opened here, I had this man come in during the inaugural Port Kembla Festival," she remembers. "He said, 'We've heard about your shop, apparently it's a vibe, would you like to be a venue for it?' So I clear the shop out every year in April, and we have three bands playing here. I just want to be amongst it—it's just the sickest community to be a part of."
Paying Forward the Support She Received
Jackson's experience with homelessness has shaped her business philosophy. She regularly provides free haircuts to people from Hope Street and others facing difficult circumstances.
"Anyone going through a hard time, I knew how much it helped me just being able to wash my hair, do my makeup, and get ready for the day in front of a mirror," she explains. "When you feel good about yourself, it can change your whole attitude."
This commitment to community support reflects the same generosity that helped Jackson during her most challenging days. Her journey from living in a camper van to establishing a successful business demonstrates remarkable resilience while highlighting the power of local community connections.
