Steve the Barber loves his neighbourhood and was genuinely touched to read the tribute written by his next-door trader, Fabian from The Simple Market. Shared on Facebook as part of an annual tradition of celebrating local stories, the post honoured a man who, for more than sixty years, has been a familiar figure on Henley Beach Road — working behind the chair at ‘Steve & Nectar’ and offering far more than just haircuts.
In a quiet pocket of Mile End, found between organic groceries and well-worn shopfronts, one neighbourly connection has stood the test of time.
“If you’ve ever parked north of our store, chances are you’ve noticed the old-school barbershop next door. Maybe you’ve glanced inside and caught a glimpse of steady hands, a warm smile, and scissors always at the ready,” wrote The Simple Market.
The tribute formed part of their annual 5031 Weekend celebration, which shines a light on living locals who embody the heart of Mile End, Thebarton and Torrensville. This year, they said, it simply had to be Steve.
Steve was the very first customer to visit The Simple Market when they opened in 2017.
“He bought a bunch of bananas, told us to keep the change, and left us with a kind word. That was our first impression, and he hasn’t changed a bit since,” said Fabian from The Simple Market.
It was the beginning of a quiet friendship that grew naturally over time.
“Visiting Steve next door became a treasured ritual. Every haircut is more than just a trim. It’s a catch-up, a bit of life advice, and a dose of perspective. Over time, it’s felt more like mentorship than maintenance,” Fabian shared.
Steve’s approach to life is grounded in simplicity.
“I live simply. I stretch every morning, eat good food — lentils, yoghurt, fruit. No junk. That’s the real medicine,” he said. “The best medication is what you put through your mouth.”
His wisdom is peppered with unexpected insight and humour. A long-time lover of numerology and astrology, Steve admits, “I wanted to be an astrologer once. When people sit in the chair, I ask for their birthday. It tells you a lot.”
One of Fabian’s favourite memories, shared in the post, was from Anzac Day this year. The store was closed for renovations, but Steve, at 86, was spotted up in an olive tree behind his shop, passing olives down to his wife for brining.
Fabian also recalled one of Steve’s favourite sayings: “Life is like swimming across the ocean. The more you carry, the harder it is to stay afloat. The trick is to swim lightly.”
Steve is a constant presence in the Mile End neighbourhood. He remembers everyone, from kids to older clients, and can walk you through local history, shop by shop.
His connection to the area runs deep, and he’s watched the world change around him. He’s also seen how life has become harder for many.
“I bought my house in Mile End in 1969 for $7,500. Back then, I was earning $38 a week as an apprentice. Now a two-bedroom place is going for over $1.5 million. How are young people supposed to get started?” said Steve.
“It’s hard to survive. A lot of people can’t even afford to pay the bills. The cost of everything is too high and people are really struggling.”
“Even a trip to the doctor has become more complicated. Nothing’s simple anymore. You go for help and walk out with a $565 bill and not much else,” he added.
And yet, what keeps him going is the people.
“I still come to the shop because I love seeing my clients. They’re not just customers — they’re family. One bloke flew in from Western Australia just to get a haircut the other week. That means so much to me.”
He says clients often pop in to visit when they’re in Adelaide from all over the place, from Sydney, Kangaroo Island, the Adelaide Hills, not just for a trim, but for the connection.
“At the end of every cut, Steve always says, ‘That’s much more respectable.’ It’s a small phrase, but it makes you feel seen,” said Fabian.
The Facebook tribute prompted messages from customers and community members of all ages. Many have known Steve in different capacities — whether as a barber, a coach, a Greek Club president or a hairdressing judge.
“It’s clear he’s crossed paths with so many people. The common thread in all their stories is that he’s a good guy, humble, generous and full of character.”
Before sharing the tribute publicly, Fabian gave Steve a printed copy.
“I wanted to make sure he was okay with it. He gave me a warm smile and simply said, ‘It’s good. Go ahead.’”
That simple gesture confirmed everything they admire about him.
“I just hope he feels seen — that all his years of showing up for people have mattered,” Fabian said.
Steve’s quiet example has influenced how The Simple Market operates too.
“In a world of self-checkouts and online shopping, Steve & Nectar reminds us that place matters just as much as product. It’s more than a haircut. It’s a human interaction.”
It’s a philosophy they carry into their own space.
“We’re not just here to sell food. We’re here to offer a slower, more grounded kind of connection. One where people feel part of something.”
As their tribute so perfectly put it, “You’ll walk out with more than a fresh cut. You’ll walk out with a story, a smile, and maybe even a new way of looking at things.”
“Steve, thank you for the stories, the quiet strength, and the reminder that a good life doesn’t need to be loud to be meaningful. It just needs to be lived with care, consistency and heart,” said Fabian.
To read the Facebook tribute post, click here.
Steve & Nectar Hair Stylist
Where: 42 Henley Beach Rd, Mile End
Phone: (08) 8352 1553
The Simple Market
Where: 44 Henley Beach Rd, Mile End
For more information, click here.
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