Edition 1: Melbourne Bayside Courier

BAYSIDE MELBOURNE COURIER

ARMSTRONG

Expressionist artist behind Australia's Studio Gallery

WWelcome to the first issue of the Melbourne Bayside Courier, thank you for picking us up.

We’ve been thinking long and hard about this magazine and what would make for interesting reading for you, the people who live, work and socialise in Bayside. We’re not scared of having fun or having a goand we hope that you share with us what you want to see more of. This is a magazine for you after all.

So this issue we chat with artist and gallerist Kerry Armstrong about her lifetime of art and delve into some sporting history, something quite topical as we lead into the Olympics in July and the Paralympics in August. We sat down with a local palaeontologist to find out what is lurking underneath us,

and speak with a New York-based former Baysider on his new mural at Wells Street Park.

As a city and a region, there’s so much happening over winter and we’ve curated a calendar with some of the best events and things to do here and a little further afield.

Plus there’s food, homes, real estate, travel, wine and so much more to delve into. We’re keen to hear your feedback on the magazine and what you’d like to see in the future so please get in touch.

Here we go.

James, Steph and the Melbourne Bayside Courier team.

WHAT WE’RE LOVING

WINTER WHITES

SUNDAY ROAST

Don the chef hat for an epic roast dinner with meats from Meatsmith in Brighton.

Publisher James Marten hello@baysidecourier.com.au

Advertising hello@baysidecourier.com.au

Cover image: Isha Mistry

Publisher information: While all care has been taken, some information may have changed since publication. The Melbourne Bayside Courier regrets it can’t accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this magazine. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements are not endorsed by the editor or publishers. We welcome any questions, feedback or submissions, email hello@ baysidecourier.com.au.

Melbourne Bayside Courier proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

Want help us deliver the Melbourne Bayside Courier? If you'd like to get paid to distribute the paper, please get in touch via hello@baysidecourier. com.au today to find out more.

BRICK ART

LEGO fans cannot miss the The Art of the Brick exhibition at Melbourne Showgrounds.

MAD MOVIES

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga puts Hollywood to shame with its Aussie gasoline-fueled madness.

Wool and natural fibres from Cable Melbourne are making the cold weather cool.

PETER DAVERINGTON

Peter Daverington is a renowned artist with a prolific career spanning since the 1990s. With a unique maximalist style, influenced by his passion for travel, culture, and art history, he has showcased his work in solo and group exhibitions globally. Recently, he returned to Bayside to craft a mural at Wells Street Park in Brighton, and we caught up with him to discuss this latest project.

Where did you grow up and where are you based now? I grew up in Warrandyte on the Yarra north of Melbourne where my mother still lives. I rented an apartment for two years in Brighton in 2004 when I was starting my Post Graduate studies at Victorian College of the Arts. In 2012 I moved to New York City and moved upstate to Kingston NY on the Hudson River in 2020 where I am restoring an old house.

How did you approach the brief for the new mural in Wells Street Park? The Bayside selection committee wanted a serene mural to add the finishing touches to the newly built

pocket park. That was perfect for me as I have been exploring ways to paint the landscape with spray paint and this provided me an opportunity to explore that. I framed the mural with a trompe l'oeil architectural feature blending in with the colours of nearby buildings and creating a window into another world.

Take us through the physical process of bringing the mural to life. I started by measuring the wall and working out my perspective points to create the geometry around the perimeter. Once this was done I then used masking tape to get the sharp edges of the trompe l'oeil frame. The sky was painted first then the river and mountains. Then I spent two weeks painting the trees and all the foliage which was the hardest part as it's difficult to do little leaves with the spray can.

Your work frequently engages with art history. How does this influence your work? I am a lover of history and painting. This means I spend a lot of time in museums around the

world looking at the old masters and trying to understand their techniques and way of thinking. I look to history to make sense of the world and try to learn from the thousands of years of human skill and creation. Usually these endeavours are private exploits where I'm working alone in my studio but it's always fun to be out in public and sharing my work and aesthetic choices with the public. It's rewarding hearing people's comments and meeting the locals who all seemed to really like the mural's progress.

What do you like to do when you return to Bayside? I would have to say the beach in summer. But I have some friends in the area so visiting them and eating out is always a lot of fun when I am back home in Melbourne each year.

Well Street Pocket Park Mural

Peter at work in Queens, New York

BEN FRANCISCHELLI

Local fossil man Ben spends his time diving around Bayside searching for remnants of longextinct creatures. Now, he is curating an upcoming exhibition at Bayside Gallery titled Prehistoric Bayside.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? When I was a kid, I always wanted to live at the beach. I now realise how unrealistic those expectations were. I was brought up in Bayside, and still live nearby.

What was your first job? When I was 17 I stacked shelves at Safeway and was promptly fired six months later for being too slow.

What sparked your passion in palaeontology? At the age of four, my uncle gave me a book titled Life before Man. There was a ridiculous picture of a T-Rex standing completely upright on its tail and I just thought it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen. I bumped into someone from primary school recently, and they asked ..."still into dinosaurs Ben?" Yep.

But it wasn't until I started snorkelling in Bayside that my passion was really sparked. I was spearfishing at Beaumaris, hoping to get some flathead for dinner when I got to chatting with someone who had found a fossil shark tooth. They showed me this gigantic triangular tooth they had recently found on the beach and my mind was blown.

When I started looking it up online, there was almost nothing that existed about the Beaumaris fossil deposit, except for a few grainy pictures. It started me on my journey to become a palaeontologist.

What sort of fossils can be found in Bayside? The sky's the limit. Bayside represents one of the most important fossil areas in all of Australia. The two largest predators that EVER existed have been found here. We're talking about animals that are at least five times the size of a T-rex. Most people are familiar with the Megalodon, a shark that was half the size of a basketball court and had a mouth so large it could have swallowed me whole, but almost no-one knows of Livyatan, the giant k iller s perm whale. Can you imagine having teeth the size of a 1.25L Coke bottle?

Both are thought to have fed on the flesh of small whales when they were alive. But there is an entire ecosystem preserved in the rocks of Beaumaris and Black Rock. From the largest flying birds that have ever existed, to creatures like the giant wombat-like Zygomaturus, we continue to make these discoveries every month.

You’re curating the upcoming 'Prehistoric Bayside' exhibition at Bayside Gallery. What can people expect from it? There are hundreds of real fossils on display

JURASSIC MELBOURNE

After viewing the fossils of Prehistoric Bayside, go see dinosaurs face-to-face at Jurassic World: The Exhibition, starting in Melbourne on 3 August. Based on the blockbuster film franchise, this is an immersive experience where you can meet and interact with life-sized dinosaur animatronics. Taking place at the Fever Exhibition & Experience Centre in Brunswick, dinosaur lovers will not want to miss this one.

in Prehistoric Bayside. Each of these fossils have been found only recently, with the help of citizen scientists. These sites represent the tip of an iceberg; there are currently entire skulls and jaws of prehistoric whales resting on the bottom of the seafloor in Bayside, but as the site is not properly funded, we cannot unlock its full potential.

I wanted to create something that the 10-year-old Ben would have loved. Anyone can contribute to the next groundbreaking discovery, and I hope the exhibition spurs on another generation of scientists that want to study our unique history. Prehistoric Bayside represents our combined heritage, and gives us an unparalleled insight into the evolution of numerous animal groups in the fossil record.

Favourite team? Flagpies. Last thing you watched? Frasier, Season 5, Episode 13. The one where Niles almost sleeps with his marriage counsellor. Favourite weekend getaway? Italy. As it takes the weekend to get away. Favourite local hidden gem? The pink jam donut at Molly Dene Bakehouse is a winner.

Your favourite place for… Breakfast? Merrymen in Hampton. Lunch? Molly Dene’s sausage roll. Dinner? Ohana Pizza. Get the "Wally" pizza, it's fantastic Coffee/Drinks? Cafe Bliss Brighton makes excellent coffee

Prehistoric Brighton is open at the Bayside Gallery at the Brighton Town Hall from 29 June - 25 August.

Photo:

BAYSIDE BULLETIN

Local news from your community

NEW ERA FOR LIFE SAVERS CLUB

Black Rock Life Saving Club’s members and volunteers have moved into their new home. The $5 million redevelopment commenced in September 2022. The building was in urgent need of renewal to provide modern and fit-forpurpose facilities for life savers. Here’s to the new era for Black Rock life savers!

PARKS VICTORIA'S VOLUNTEER CALL OUT

Do you enjoy camping and being in nature? Are you someone who likes meeting new people and sharing what you know? If yes, you might be perfect for Parks Victoria’s Volunteer Campground Host program. As a Volunteer Campground Host, you can spend up to a week camping at popular campsites in Victoria. Your job is to welcome campers, help them settle in, and give them information about the area. You'll be trained before you start, provided with a uniform, and get to camp for free during your stay. If you're interested in volunteering at a park near you, check out www.parks.vic.gov.au/ get-into-nature/volunteering for more info.

INSTAGRAMMABLE VICTORIA

Victoria's 12 Apostles and St Kilda Beach are in the top most Instagrammable spots in Australia. The rankings come from an analysis of Instagram hashtags for 25 popular locations across Australia. The 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road came in at number seven on the list, with St Kilda Beach following at number eight. Let's get the Bathing Boxes on the list next time!

Black Rock Life Saving Club

Parks Victoria

CALLS FOR ACTION ON MENOPAUSE

Many women with menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms in Australia find it difficult to access the support they need, says the Australian Medical Association (AMA). A third of Australian women in midlife say menopause symptoms make it hard to do daily activities, but a significant barrier is that the out-of-pocket health expenses for women are generally higher than for men. “It shouldn’t matter who you are, where you live, or what kind or job you have – women need support through perimenopause and menopause,” AMA President Professor Steve

Robson said. Management of menopause is complex and individualised, so requires longer times with doctors. Australia is currently without a National Menopause Framework or Action Plan, but the AMA hopes it will be a recommendation of the Senate inquiry. This action plan would include an analysis of medical and therapeutic support to combat the symptoms of menopause including high anxiety, depression, mood swings, forgetfulness or brain fog, and suicidal tendencies. “Taking action on menopause and perimenopause will help empower women and have a fairer system for all,” Professor Robson said.

UNCLEAN AIR IN SOUTHERN CROSS STATION

Melbourne's Southern Cross Station has become the unsurprising contender for the city's "least clean" air spot, according to recently revealed data. Nitrogen dioxide levels at the bustling transport hub have soared to more than 90 times the World Health Organization's guidelines. The station, with tens of thousands of commuters daily, faces scrutiny over diesel fumes, mostly from buses. While Melbourne as a whole boasts clean air in comparison to the rest of the globe, this is a smoggy asterisk on the record.

ANCIENT KANGAROO UNEARTHED

A 50,000-year-old kangaroo skeleton, belonging to the extinct short-faced kangaroo species Simosthenurus occidentalis, was uncovered in Gippsland. Discovered in a cave on Gunaikurnai Country near Buchan, East Gippsland, the skeleton, one of Australia's most complete, was excavated over four years by Parks Victoria rangers and Museums Victoria. The cave's exact location remains confidential to preserve its condition. This ancient kangaroo would have weighed over 80kg. The species was slower and bulkier than its modern counterparts, and used its powerful jaws to consume tough plant material. The skeleton will be on public display at Melbourne Museum from 24 June. To learn more about local prehistory, read on our interview with Bayside palaeontologist Ben Francischelli.

PROPOSED MELBOURNE HOSPITAL AXED

Plans to build a major new hospital in urban renewal precinct, Arden, North Melbourne, have been cancelled. Announced in 2022, and planned to open in 2031, the hospital was going to help manage the overflow of patients, but due to safety concerns over electromagnetic interference from the nearby under construction Metro Tunnel, the project is no more. The axed hospital was supposed to be an additional campus for the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Royal Women's Hospital, specialising in elective surgeries, outpatient treatment, clinical trials and low-risk women’s healthcare. Instead, the existing hospitals will be redeveloped, and Arden will receive new housing.

Tim Ziegler from Melbourne Museum with the fossil

Photo:

COMMUNITY PLEAS FOR NEW BASKETBALL COURT IN BRIGHTON

A petition to install an outdoor basketball court in Dendy Park is gaining traction. The petition was created out of the community’s concern with the lack of quality outdoor basketball courts in the area. Available courts are indoor and only accessible under supervised circumstances, and outdoor ones that do exist are poor quality. The addition of such a court will provide a space for young people to engage in physical outdoor activities and socialise. Basketball itself is an increasingly popular sport - currently the second highest participating team sport in Australia according to a recent Australian Clearinghouse for Sport annual AusPlay survey. The petition can be viewed here: www.change.org/ DendyBasketballCourt.

CHARGE WHILE YOU STOP

Bayside City Council are currently finalising locations to install more charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs). Community feedback is being considered. Nine public EV charging stations were proposed for some of Bayside’s highly visited shopping areas, encouraging drivers to shop while they charge. At each location, one to two public car parking bays will be converted to EV charging parking only. The installation of these charging stations are expected to begin late 2024, subject to community consultation outcomes. Each charger takes approximately one to five days to install on-site. More information can be found at yoursay.bayside.vic.gov.au/EVchargers.

NEW NEW NEW

Renowned chef and restaurateur Luke Mangan brings a French bistro to Melbourne in the form of Bistrot Bisou (575 Flinders Lane, Melbourne). Boasting French cuisine with modern twists, some of the mouth-watering dishes include Salmon Fumé and Lobster Thermidor. New pan Asian restaurant Bang Bang (315 Hampton Street, Hampton) delivers bold flavours inspired by Asian street food culture, with a diverse menu featuring small bites, substantial mains, and a dedicated bao section, perfect for group gatherings. St Kilda welcomes The

Walrus (Ground Floor/9 Inkerman Street, St Kilda), a wine and oyster bar boasting a rotating selection of wines and freshly shucked oysters, served atop hand-carved ice. D.O.C (14-16 The Esplanade, St Kilda) extends its authentic Italian charm to St Kilda's esplanade, offering a fresh menu of traditional Italian dishes, complemented by a selection of top-shelf wines in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. WINK Elwood (1/125 Ormond Road, Elwood) offers stylish optical glasses and advanced eye tests using OCT technology.

Proposed JOLT EV charging stations

Bistrot Bisou

+THE ARTS

INDIGENOUS ART LIGHTING THE WAY

A new light exhibition titled Gumbuya Dreaming has come to Gumbuya World Theme Park. Inspired by First Nations’ traditional storytelling, this experience comes from renowned Indigenous Melbourne-based artist Wayne Quilliam. Light installations and soundscapes will take people through 60,000 years of history and stories along a walking trail. The all-ages experience will run until 21 July.

MELBOURNE DESIGN WEEK AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Industrial designer Adam Goodrum and marquetry artisan Arthur Seigneur have won the 2024 Melbourne Design Week Award for their collaboration on ‘The Kissing Cabinet’. Operating as Adam&Arthur (A&A), they took home the $5000 prize. Their winning piece, The Kissing Cabinet, is a modern take on 1800s mechanical furniture, featuring a hidden compartment that unfolds in the shape of ‘kissing lips’. It is made from custom dyed rye straw, carbon composite, birch ply, stainless-steel, and brass.

NEW SCULPTURE IN LANDCOX PARK

A new public art sculpture has been unveiled in Landcox Park, Brighton East, as a marker of acknowledgement of Bayside’s indigenous history. The sculpture is titled Sovereign Tree and was created by Robert Michael Young, a Gunnai, Waradjuri, Gunditjmara, and Yorta Yorta artist. The artwork depicts the scar trees created by Indigenous people by removing bark for various purposes, including constructing canoes or shelters.

Photo: Tolarno Galleries / Gumbuya World FB / Robert Michael Young FB

Gumbuya Dreaming

Adam and Arthur with The Kissing Cabinet

Sovereign Tree

ROUTE WORKS

Works on Sandringham’s cycling routes started mid-June and are expected to last for up to one month. The upgrades are focused on safety, with clearer markings and signage. Throughout the works there will be some limited access parking, footpaths, and roads.

IS THAT TREE SIGNIFICANT?

Bayside City Council is encourag ing local residents to nominate trees to be included in the Significant Tree Register. If a tree is listed on the Significant Tree Register, a permit is required to destroy, damage, remove, or otherwise alter the tree. The register helps preserve significant trees for future generations. But how to know if a tree is significant? Here’s a handy guide.

Rare species for region: as it says on the tin. If a tree is rare for its location, it may be worth putting forward for the register.

Curious growth form: if a tree has a peculiar/unique look, like if branches grow in unexpected directions.

Outstanding tree: for trees that are exceptionally impressive in scope and size. They provide significant shade and amenity value. Heritage listed: these can be trees that add character to heritage homes, or trees with historical value.

Remnant tree: very old trees, remnants from the past. These can be trees up to or even over 100 years old. You can nominate trees for the Significant Tree Register at www. bayside.vic.gov.au/services/treesparks-and-beaches/significanttree-register.

MORE PUBLIC TOILETS FOR BAYSIDE

More clean, safe, and accessible public toilets are coming to Bayside. This comes after Bayside City Council received almost 600 submissions during the community feedback phase of their Public Toilet Strategy 2024-2028. The feedback showed a

desire for a new toilet in Elsternwick Park South, as well as upgrades to existing toilets at various locations. There was also the desire for a new Changing Place - a larger bathroom facility aimed at people with disability - at Ricketts Point.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WOOD FOR YOUR HEATER

Selecting the appropriate wood for your wood heater is crucial for reducing air pollution and safeguarding health. The Environmental Protection Agency has shared tips to help you pick the right wood for staying warm and protecting your neighbours from smoke pollution. Opt for small logs of dry, seasoned, untreated hardwood, ensuring it hasn't been chemically treated with paints or stains. Dry hardwood yields more heat and less smoke, preventing flue blockage. To confirm wood dryness, listen for a loud, hollow crack when pieces are banged together or tap them with a key or coin for a sharp, resonant sound. Avoid burning driftwood, treated/painted wood, household rubbish, or coal, as they can emit toxic smoke. For more info visit www.epa.vic.gov.au.

CHARITY GARDEN TO OPERATE YEAR-ROUND

The Lighthouse Foundation has created a vegetable and herb garden at their home for vulnerable young people in the City of Frankston. The garden will operate year-round thanks to a community grant that helped in purchasing a 2,500-litre rainwater tank. The garden has blossomed into an outdoor sanctuary where young people can learn new skills and connect.

EARN MONEY AND GET OUT AND ABOUT

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WHAT ’S ON EVENTS

Plan your months ahead with the top events to attend in Bayside and Melbourne

JULY

01Kick off the winter school holidays with an incredible hip hop dance workshop run by talented First Nations' performers, suitable for all ages. At Beaumaris Library, 3pm. , plays at

05 presents exhibition that celebrates three thousand years of ancient Egyptian art and culture through over 500 works. Opens today, until 6 October.

02 Accept the invitation to Be Our Guest at Disney’s new production of Beauty and the Beast, a musical playing at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre for the rest of the year.

03Get ready to sing, dance and groove with The Wiggles’ Wiggle Groove Tour at Palais Theatre. There are multiple shows from today to 7 July. Be quick, tickets are selling like hot potatoes.

04The immersive hit Lightscapes has returned to the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne after dark with a reimagined trail and brand new installations. Until 4 August.

6

romantically swept away to the bygone era of smoky nightclubs with rhinestone Burlesque showgirls.

07 Did you know the Black Rock House is the reason the suburb was named Black Rock? Step back in time to see the historic house on the 1st Sunday of every month.

11Platinum-selling singersongwriter Conan Gray plays in Melbourne tonight at John Cain Arena, as part of his global Found Heaven On Tour.

Swap your beanie for Bastille stallholders as you indulge acclaimed contemporaryas we Billilla Gardens

14Practice your BBQing skills with a charcoal cooking class at BBQS PLUS Bayside. From 2-4pm, learn the basics on a range of different charcoal BBQs, and sample some food.

17 Norwegian songwriter ‘girl in red’ performs tonight. Experience her dance-worthy and emotionally resonant songs at Margaret Court Arena

Ali Wong Pharaoh

Photo: National Gallery of Victoria

19Celebrate the 25th anniversary of One Piece, one of the most beloved anime in the world, with a special orchestra concert. Tonight at The Plenary in Melbourne, 8pm start.

Join a cosy evening of sound healing with Danielle Steller, featuring soothing songs and sound healing by the fire. 6:30pm at RAW Australia in Brighton East.

31The

world’s longestrunning play, Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery The Mousetrap, opens at the Frankston Arts Centre tonight, with shows until 3 August.

AUGUST

20Dynamic duo Tenacious D, featuring Jack Black and Kyle Gass, bring their Spicy Meatball Tour to Rod Laver Arena in the City of Melbourne tonight at 7:30pm.

The Blues Brothers are hitting Beaumaris Motor Yacht Squadron tonight at 6:30pm. Enjoy all of the hits from the cult movie performed live. Include a two course dinner.

01 Take part in Preschool Storytimes at Beaumaris Library, every Thursday during school term at 10:30am. They offer longer stories and encourage more sophisticated interaction with books, aimed at

21Get your running shoes on for Run Melbourne, which offers three distances to race through the beautiful streets of the cit

27Celebrate Christmas in July at the Sandringham Yacht Club. At $99 per person, entry includes a Christmas-themed three course meal with a welcome drink. 7pm start.

09

Based on the bestselling novel about a forbidden love affair between a photographer and a housewife, Beaumaris Theatre presents The Bridges of Madison County. Until 24 August.

10Get ready for the ultimate showdown at Chelsea Heights Hotel, as the Never Ending 80s presents the battle of the decades: 80s vs 90s. Pick a side and enjoy a live songfor-song battle.

03Brighton Town Hall is once again hosting the BIG VINYL DIG, where thousands of quality new and used LPs and CDs are ready for your crate-digging fingers. Free entry, 12-4pm.

04Bronzewings are native pigeons that are threatened in Bayside. Come along and help plant food for them at the former golf driving range. Enter from George Street near Wangara Rd. 10-11:30am.

11Head to the Wickers Club in Brighton to hear Motown Magic play all the Great Hits from the 60’s onwards. $20 at the door, includes sausage sizzle. Doors at 1pm, band starts at 3:30pm.

14Chart-topping, critically acclaimed, sibling duo Angus and Julia Stone come to St Kilda’s Palais Theatre tonight and tomorrow. 8pm both nights.

16Brighton Theatre Company presents Admissions, which opens tonight and runs to 31 August. A scorching satire about privilege and power through the lens of the education system.

17

Pay a visit to the Brighton Farmers Market, held on the third Saturday of the month, from 8:30am-1pm in the grounds of St Andrew's Church.

18Bayside Chamber Orchestra presents a winter extravaganza of chamber classics featuring works by Bruch and more, with new work by local composer Tom Campbell. 3:30-5pm at Brighton Town Hall

25Feel the sea breeze in your hair at the Sandy Point half marathon. Choose between a 21.1km, 10km or 5km race. 6:30am12:00pm, starting at Green Point, Brighton.

Tenacious D

Brighton Farmers Market

NAVIGATING THE ART WORLD

Kerry Armstrong is an acclaimed expressionist artist who founded Studio Gallery, one of Australia’s largest commercially available collections of contemporary art . We caught up with Kerry to discuss all things art.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I was born in Birregurra, now very elevated with the famous restaurant Brae (it certainly wasn't back then!). We live in beautiful Harkaway on 20 acres in a lovely old historical home of 150 years with my art studio, too many horses, dogs, cats, ducks and the list goes on.

Did you encounter any nerves when transitioning to a full-time artist? At that time I was very unwell with a brain tumour so to be perfectly honest I didn't suffer from nerves regarding my transition to full time artist - I had more serious fears to deal with - let's call it healthy perspective! Looking back it was a wonderful thing to be distracted like that and not be intimidated.

Creating art involves delving deep within oneself. How do you ensure you're in a safe space emotionally to explore and create? My studio is a unique and homely space just for myself, our dogs and very loud music! I try to ensure my interruptions are

minimal which does become tricky with five galleries across the east coast of Australia and quite a large team at Studio Gallery!

When do you know it's time to paint? Can you describe that feeling of inspiration? My painting ritual always involves music which seems to take me to a creative plane very quickly. The feeling is quite like the pre labour state expectant mother's experience, an unexplained urgency. I paint and move around the studio very quickly, almost with impatience if I think about it. I feel this is because my window of offloading subconscious matter is precious and reasonably short.

Kerry in front of one of her large scale works LOCAL PRO F I EL

How do you feel about relinquishing control over the meaning of your work once it's out in the world? It's always been quite interesting to chat to people in the gallery about their interpretation of the work. It's quite amusing when they're determined to make me 'see' what they see (which I never do!). I'm an expressionist, so for me it's all about the 'feeling' the work communicates, not necessarily what it looks like. Ultimately I'm so grateful the work has provided joy and meaning to my collectors.

Studio Gallery has become a hub for artists. What is the importance of accessible art galleries? When we opened Studio Gallery from our then-home in Brighton, we saw a huge gap in the market for more transparency regarding pricing and to be offering our artworks online. It was a vastly different landscape back then and I think we were seen as very much overly commercial by existing galleries because we had an e-commerce site. Now, of course, it's very much stock standard, best practice, to be online as a gallery. During covid however we thought our clients would be missing their European trips and subsequent art purchases so we spread our artist base wings to include more i nternational talent. To this day we proudly represent 109 Australian artists, as well as 18 artists from abroad.

What emerging trends do you see in the Australian art world? Landscapes and Botanicals have seen a huge lift in success with Australian collectors, formerly seen as a bit old hat. Our collectors in Australia are drawn to works of large scale, we don't do anything in halves in this country and we tend to have large walls to address unlike many i nternational cities who are space limited. There is a surge of interest amongst our collector base for sculpture and textile art, sensory affirming works.

I'm an expressionist, so for me it's all about the 'feeling' the work communicates.

What do you like to do around Bayside? We visit Bayside restaurants often and love a great cafe breakfast, nothing of course equals a Melbourne breakfast and coffee. When we lived in Brighton, rain, hail or shine our favourite time of day to go for a walk was sunset, it's a special experience on the foreshore that our dogs still miss.

First job? Washing dishes in a restaurant in the Dandenongs called the ViennaWald.

Favourite team? Only happy when my husband Michael has a win with the Bulldogs!

Last thing you watched? Colin From Accounts (love it!).

Favourite weekend getaway? To be home with my husband Michael on the weekend on the farm!

Favourite hidden gem? There is a tiny private beach behind bushes on the Brighton foreshore, we just loved it - I'm not divulging it!

Your favourite place for… Breakfast? Sons Of Mary Lunch? The Stokehouse Dinner? Cucina & Co Coffee/Drinks? Mr & Mrs P

Kerry's work hanging in the gallery

POOL TRENDS

Ah, the swimming pool: a serene oasis, an artificial marvel. As with anything to do with the home, pools have trends that ebb and flow. Let's go through what’s hot right now.

Plunge Pool

For those who just want to chill out. A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for leisure, as opposed to swimming. Plunge pools have surged in popularity recently due to their affordability and versatility, suitable for tighter budgets and smaller spaces. Similar to a spa, you can also hold parties and get-togethers with the plunge pool as a centrepiece, or grab drinks and enjoy a soak.

Natural Pools

For the nature lovers.

Artificiality yields to the allure of nature. The days of sterile rectangles filled with chemicallytreated water may, making way for natural swimming pools. A harmonious blend of design and environment, a natural pool is not entirely natural - it still needs to be built - but it gives the appearance of a watering hole you’d find in nature. Also known as eco-pools or ponds, they maintain cleanliness through natural processes and moving

water. That’s a no to chemicals! They are not only environmentally friendly but also visually stunning. Businesses like Natural Swimming Pools Australia and Bells Water Gardens specialise in them.

Ice Bath

For those who like it on the rocks.

Okay, so this isn’t a pool exactly, but ice baths are becoming more popular each year. As uncomfortable as an icy plunge sounds, their popularity coincides with research showing the health benefits, including reducing inflammation and soreness. Meaning they’re particularly popular after a workout. While there are some public ice baths you can take, you can also buy one for your own home if you’re brave enough.

Heated Pool

For those who refuse to hibernate. We all know pools typically go unused in the winter months. Who wants to go swimming in the backyard when it’s that cold out? Well, there’s a solution. According to a recent report from Poolz, heating systems have emerged as the most sought-after feature, reflecting a desire among homeowners to extend pool usage beyond the typical summer season. So why not warm up your winter with a dip?

Photo: Mr Pools / IceTubs

Plunge pool

Ice bath

Resort Living

For those who seek pampering. You know when you're on holiday at a luxurious resort, and they boast an epic pool where you could spend your entire vacation basking in the sun? Well, post-COVID, many homeowners realised their homes can become their personal resorts. Enter resort-style pools. Influenced by the design of tropical getaways, this style exudes total luxury and vacation vibes. Imagine expansive decks, cosy seating areas, and outdoor kitchens complementing the swimming pool.

Property Lens

WHAT IS BTR?

Build-to-Rent (BTR) is a new kid on the block. It’s an approach that has cemented in the UK and USA, and is becoming more common here. Melbourne in particular is at the forefront of BTR development in Australia, with state incentives such as land tax concessions spurring growth. So, what is it?

BTR is a housing development approach where developers build multi-unit buildings specifically for renting out to tenants. This way, developers have incentive to construct sustainable buildings to minimise future operational costs. Unlike traditional landlords who may sell properties for capital gains, BTR property managers are long-term providers of rental services.

It’s mostly handled by big companies but there are ways for everyday investors to get involved. This includes investing as a limited partner, buying BTR units from a developer early in the process, or, if the resources and experience are on hand, developing a new BTR. For developers, the main benefit is a steady income stream but comes with the risk of investing in an emerging concept. For tenants, BTR provides greater security, but can be on the pricier side of things.

Agent: Stephen Smith, Marshall White

Agent: Alex Schiavo, Kay&Burton

Agent: Matthew Pillios, Kay&Burton

Natural pool

Resort style pool

HOW TO CREATE A COASTAL GARDEN

Andrew Panton Design is a successful garden design and landscaping business, spurred by Andrew’s passion and creative streak. We sat down with him to discuss his insights into garden design and cultivating a coastal space.

What is your approach to garden design? I have an extensive horticulture and landscape background so I have quite a practical approach to my designs. In saying this, however, I’m a big advocate for greenery - the more greenery the better! I love how plants and greenery can liven up any space and add personality to the hardscape.

When selecting plants, how do you determine which species to use? Do you have your go-to favourites? Plant selection is definitely a favourite part of the job for me, and extremely important to get right. When considering plant choices, the first step is usually a discussion with the client to decide what styles of gardens they like. Once this is determined, I then start to think about particular plant varieties and of course the conditions they will be living in. I like to keep things interesting and not specify the same plants repeatedly. Although I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have a few old faithfuls I often come back to. A couple of these are limonium perezzii, a hardy evergreen perennial which has beautiful purple flowers on stems nearly year round and Liriope muscari, a versatile compact clumping plant that grows well in a shaded area and also tolerates quite a bit of sun.

How do you ensure that your garden designs maintain their appeal and functionality over time? I think the key to ensuring a timeless design is

by designing something that works best practically and aesthetically with the particular space. I often like to use a mixed palette of plant types, textures and colours and include perennials in most of my designs. These help create some interest year-round with changing foliage, colour and flowering. Garden maintenance also plays a big part in helping to both establish the garden in its early stages, and keep it in beautiful condition.

What kind of plants and design elements work well here in the Bayside area? Plants that are put into new Bayside gardens usually need a bit more consideration due to the more extreme weather conditions. I'd recommend using a combination of native grasses and shrubs mixed in with some succulents and cacti.

What advice would you give to someone trying to create a coastal-inspired outdoor space?

Consider using natural materials as much as possible and earthy coloured tones. Using boulders as part of the hardscape with paved materials and pebbles/screenings from the local area is also a nice touch and provides a connection to nature. Native grasses are nice to mix in with native shrubs and other plants, with an emphasis on blending in with the natural landscape. Have a look around a coastal area and make note of plants that are thriving and think about incorporating some of them.

Favourite local spot in terms of outdoor design? One of my favourite local spots is the St Kilda botanical gardens. There is so much history in there - some old established trees that are so huge it’s mind-blowing! I love wandering through the beautifully manicured gardens, there’s an abundance of interesting colour and foliage.

Photo: Caitlin Mills

Andrew Panton

Bayside garden

Armadale garden

ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS

ARE THEY SWEET OR SOUR FOR YOUR HEALTH?

By Serena Hodge

It’s the age-old debate, are artificial sweeteners good for us? I’m about to take you through the confusing evidence that exists around the safety and efficacy of their use as a sugar alternative.

But first, what exactly is an artificial sweetener? Scientifically referred to as a ‘non-nutritive’ sweetener, they are a sweet compound that provides little to no calories. They are an appealing alternative to sugar among those aiming to lose weight or manage diabetes. They are found in sugar-free soft drinks, and ubiquitous within the supermarket shelves. Find them in yoghurt, protein bars, kombucha, jelly, gum, some medications and even mouthwash!

Some studies suggest the consumption of nonnutritive sweeteners could be associated with weight gain, increased appetite and increased caloric intake. While others argue to negate these findings. There’s even research to suggest that frequent use of nonnutritive sweeteners could alter our taste buds; developing an affinity for sweet foods, while making naturally sweet foods (i.e. fruit) more unpalatable. But take these findings with a grain of salt. They are derived from a budding area of research that can currently only be defined as weak at best.

The conversation on non-nutritive sweeteners wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the potential negative impact they may have on gut health. With some research indicating they may contribute to imbalances in the gut microbiome and a reduction in glucose tolerance (if true, this would contradict their use among people with diabetes). Excessive consumption of sugar alcohols can have a laxative effect on the gastrointestinal system. As they are a poorly digested sugar that is rapidly fermented in

the large intestine, they can also trigger symptoms amongst Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) sufferers (think: gas, tummy pains, and *insert excuse to run to the bathroom again here*). The verdict? This topic is complex. There is not a clear consensus on whether there is a link between non-nutritive sweeteners and negative health outcomes. Rest assured, non-nutritive sweeteners are required to undergo rigorous safety testing under the Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) before being approved as a food additive in Australia.

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t be consuming a diet laden with sugar or non-nutritive sweeteners. But if you do feel a little dubious about their use in food, let me offer you a few simple steps you could take towards a sweetener-free way of eating. Opt for a handful of raw nuts instead of a sweetener laced muesli bar, choose the unsweetened Greek yoghurt and pair it with your favourite fruit, or make your own fruit-infused soda water to replace sugar free soft drink.

You can follow Serena on Instagram @coconut_mason or on her blog at www.coconutmason.blogspot.com.

Did you know?

Artificial sweeteners were discovered by accident. Forgetting to wash his hands before lunch, a researcher noticed a sweet taste on his fingers after experimenting with a coal tar derivative (benzoic sulfimide) in the lab. This led to the discovery of Saccharin in 1879.

QUICK THAI LARB STIR FRY

This is a twist on a traditional Thai dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It’s ready in the time it takes to cook the rice. Serve with rice and a side of sauteed beans or greens to get extra veggies in your day. Serves four.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp peanut oil

500g lean pork or chicken mince

1 stem lemongrass, pale section only, finely chopped, or half a tube of prepared lemongrass pulp

2 fresh long green chillies, finely chopped, optional

1 tsp finely grated lemon rind / zest

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp fish sauce

Pinch of sugar

1/3 cup loosely packed fresh coriander leaves

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

Butter or iceberg lettuce leaves, to serve

1/4 cup finely chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, optional

Method: Heat oil in the wok or heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Add the mince, lemongrass and chilli (optional) and cook, breaking up the mince with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until the

mince changes colour and is cooked through. Meanwhile, in a small bowl or jug mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, fish sauce and sugar to form a dressing. Mix well. Once the

Woodfired Margherita Pizzas

Note: The preprepared lemongrass is easy and keeps in the fridge. The recipe works well if you double the quantities for a big batch. Refrigerate and use leftovers within three days.

mince mixture is cooked, stir through the dressing, coriander leaves and onion. Mix well and serve with jasmine or brown rice, lettuce, and topped with peanuts (optional).

3 1 2 3

Fire and pizza is an unbeatable combo. In winter, there’s few better ways to warm yourself than with a woodfired pizza. Imagine the flavours of the sauce, cheese, and seasoning with a charred crust and a rustic, smoky flavor. Hungry now? Sometimes simple is best, and to really test the worth of a pizza joint is to try their simplest offerings. That’s why we recommend the humble margherita pizza. Here’s three local places to try woodfired pizza this winter.

CRACKERING THE CASE: SAVOY VS. JATZ

Have you ever wondered what the difference was behind iconic crackers Savoy and Jatz? Despite looking similar, having near-identical packaging, and being produced by the same company in Arnott’s, they have a different name. What gives? We did the hard work for you and discovered that Savoys came first, arriving in 1938 from Brockhoff Biscuits here in Victoria, then Tasmania. NSW company Arnott’s Biscuits introduced Jatz in 1952 in NSW and Queensland. Originally competitors, the two companies merged, eventually dropping the Brockhoff name. Instead of getting rid of either Savoy or Jatz brands, they were both popular in their respective home states (Savoy in VIC/TAS and Jatz in NSW/ QLD) so the decision was made to keep them. But is there actually a recipe difference between the crackers? Turns out there is. Where Jatz contains full cream milk powder and malt, Savoy has golden syrup instead, resulting in a subtle taste difference. Which do you prefer?

DON’T MISS

Little Food Market

Food and produce enthusiasts, mark your calendars. From 19-21 July, The Little Food Market comes to the historic Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton. Here, you can join a gathering of over 200 esteemed producers, winemakers, and distillers, and learn their stories. This will showcase the essence of Australian culinary craftsmanship. Think everything from artisan cheeses and boutique wines to chilli oils. Admission starts from $15, with complimentary entry for children under 12 (accompanied by an adult).

WINE

& LESS

LUXE

2022 Mount Majura Vineyard

Tempranillo ($58)

In the forest surrounding Canberra lies Mount Majura Vineyard. Tempranillo is their flagship product, and they have been innovating and expanding on it since the year 2000. With a deep red-purple hue, the fragrance is black cherry and spice, while on the palate, it offers a dry, velvety texture. Take a sip and be transported to the cold air of the mountain.

Set the vibe:

Music: “The Look” by Metronomy

Food: BBQ meats

When: Saturday afternoon

LESS

2022 Mixed by DJ Deadly Six Strings

Tempranillo ($25)

This Adelaide Hills Spanish red is intended to be paired not just with food (Spanish, of course), but with music. Find a playlist and sip away. It’s peppery and savoury in the mouth, bursting with cherry, raspberry, mint, and thyme. Enjoy its vibrant fruitiness on a calm evening, set to music, making every sip a glowing experience.

Set the vibe:

Music: “Teardrop” by Massive Attack

Food: Paella

When: Friday night

Photo:

The Little Food Market

FALLS CREEK FAMILY TIME

My first ski was at the age of about 16. We only had one day on the slopes and it was a literal crash course in skiing. I learnt that the most effective way to stop on day one was by falling, and the poma (the little lift that takes you to the top) was not a seat. I also learnt that trackpants were not suitable ski attire.

Fast forward to more than 25 years later and I have a much better handle on skiing, as well as appropriate ski gear. I’m not out for heart-pumping black-run adventures, but I do love a good ski surrounded by beautiful mountains.

For this trip, Falls Creek was our resort of choice, the northernmost Victorian resort. Falls Creek is home to the largest ski/snowboarding terrain in Victoria and is a ski in/ski out village, which comes into it’s own when you’re getting kids out the door in the morning. It also makes it easy to just ski home for lunch and get back out there easily.

As we approached Falls Creek and ascended into the mountainous area, dustings of snow lined the road and the kids’ excitement built. My eldest had skied before but it was my youngest’s first time. Being ski in/ski out, you can’t drive directly to your accommodation. You can

lug all your gear up into the village or opt for the oversnow - the main vehicular transport around the village. At this point, we resigned ourselves to the fact that nothing at the snow would be cheap, and paid for transfers up the hill. It turned out to be a super exciting experience for the boys, sitting in the front seat of the snow cat as it clawed it’s way up the hill. Once settled into the lodge we sorted out the kids ski rentals (Central Snowsports were very helpful and conveniently near our accommodation) and lift passes. At about $220 a day it feels like a fair whack, but we took the gamble on being able to ski each day and got a week long pass at a discounted price.

for his first lessons. Talking him through the basics “pizza and fries” - fries when your skis are straight and pizza for when you bring your skis together into a point if you need to stop. He started to prefer skiing between our legs (because he could go faster) so he joined us on some steeper runs. Australia’s longest green run, Wombat’s Ramble became a favourite run, especially after discovering Slides Cafe at Slalom Plaza, adjacent to Halley’s Comet Chairlift. After thinking nothing was cheap on the mountain, I discovered they sell the most amazing caramel slice, good coffee and South Melbourne Market dim sims for $4.50. One and done!

I’m not out for heart-pumping black-run adventures, but I do love a good ski.

If you’re really organised you can opt for an EPIC pass which gives you access all season and works out much cheaper.

On the first day, my eight year old went from being tentative to easily heading down the runs. Being school holidays, the ski school was heavily booked so our youngest came to the Mum and Dad Ski School

Pete the Snowdragon Snow and gum trees outside Astra Lodge

The Bogong moth

Another popular lunch option is Cloud 9 at the top of the mountain. The pizzas are quick and easy, as well as coffee, full bar and sweet treats. Any decent ski field should have a donut shop - Falls Creek has Snonuts, the perfect ending to a day on the slopes.

Non-skiers can also have loads of fun at Falls Creek. The toboggan park is a new addition - you need to book but it’s free and has a ‘magic carpet’ to take you from the bottom of the run back up to the top. You can also hire snow shoes, or head out hiking and be rewarded with stunning views over the lake and Mount Bogong.

After hours, the village is for exploring. Many lodges have a cafe, bar or restaurant and we set out to try a few. Head to The Frying Pan in for a drink, burgers and pub fare at the base of the Summit run. It’s especially good on Thursday nights after the weekly fireworks show which is right outside. The Chop House serves up excellent American BBQ inspired food - we enjoyed a feast of loaded fries, smoked meats, maple cornbread and kids burgers. And Astra Lodge is where to head for luxe apres over French bubbles and fine dining.

FURTHER AFIELD

Events and adventures a little further out…

28 June Winter Street Party

Join the festivities in Werribee City Centre for the Winter Street Party, a night of fun featuring fire shows, street performers, and interactive art installations. With businesses offering special offers and delicious winter dishes, it should be a cosy night out with family and friends.

After a week of skiing, with a mix of bluebird days and low visibility, the kids are skiing beautifully and the parents are feeling like they’ve had an actually relaxing getaway. Descending the mountain, we were already planning our next trip.

Falls Creek Hot Ski Tips:

• Pack little Mars Bars and lollies in your pockets

• Buy your passes in advance and save

• Catch the Village Shuttle to cover more ground

• Night skiing is on Wednesdays and Saturdays

• Check out the fireworks in the village on Thursday nights.

Electric Wonderland

Step into a world of enchantment at Bendigo's historic Rosalind Park during Electric Wonderland. From 28 June to 14 July, immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, mesmerising light installations, and magical projections.

Island Whale Festival

Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Phillip Island's coastal waters during the Island Whale Festival, celebrating the annual arrival of majestic whales. With activities ranging from whale spotting to craft workshops, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this wonderful island.

16 August CX Ballarat

Be thrilled by cyclo-cross racing at CX Ballarat, the pinnacle event for CX in Australia. Cheer on participants as they navigate challenging courses, and enjoy delicious food and drinks as you soak up the excitement.

Mallee Almond Blossom Festival

Celebrate the beauty of the Mallee region at the Almond Blossom Festival, featuring local produce, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy stunning views of the Murray River while sampling almonds, olives, and fresh garden produce. Yum.

Electric Wonderland

Island Whale Festival

CX Ballarat

Mallee Almond Blossom Festival

LET’S BE (UN)HAPPY

By Annia Baron

“When I get that job, once I find that special someone, after I buy the house, then I’ll be happy.” “When we book that air bnb, once the weekend comes, after I lose the weight, then I’ll be happy.”

Our daily life is saturated with this arrival fallacy. With such a focus on happiness, it’s no wonder we’ve repelled from anything that resembles its opposite and as a result, we’re disconnecting from the power that unhappiness can bring.

But why are we so afraid of unhappiness? For survival, we’re conditioned to gravitate towards pleasure and run away from pain. But here’s the kicker, if pleasure was the key to our happiness, we’d all be dead in a week. You’d likely spend all of your time, money, and energy on sex, drugs, and rock n roll. And this message - that you can ‘get’ happier

Did you know ?

do we normalise it as part of our growth? What if feeling unhappy was an opportunity to enter a beautiful room in our mind. A space with warm lighting, filled with luscious plants, gentle sounds, and the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon scrolls coming out of the oven.

Perhaps here, we could find answers to questions like:

• What am I in need of right now?

• What parts of myself am I avoiding or neglecting?

• How can I work towards being my real self and experience a deeper sense of satisfaction?

simply by buying pleasure - is the same one we’ve been sold all our lives. It’s on every advert, in each glossy magazine, and shoved in your

None of us want to feel like we’re left behind. No wonder we want to avoid unhappiness.

face when you’re scrolling. But like any other feeling, unhappiness is simply information. It’s knowledge that we can use to enhance our lives. And here’s the ultimate revelation: in most studies that have been done on happiness, we know that true satisfaction, the type that is deeply rewarding (and doesn’t kill you!) only exists if we also experience hardship. Essentially, happiness doesn’t occur without unhappiness. So, if unhappiness is important for our sense of feeling good, how

Some of the most fascinating sex lives are those of crustaceans found along rocky shores? Relative to body size, barnacles have the longest penis in the world, spanning up to 10 times their length. Not only can their penis smell and feel, but barnacles also grow new ones each year. As the barnacle can’t move around so easily, they

tend to cast out their giant appendage, like a fishing rod, in hope that it connects with the home of a female’s reproductive system. The ultimate pleasure seeker.

It wouldn’t have to be a place where you resolved all your problems immediately. It would simply be a space where you could equalise your mindset. Imagine we all got so damn good at being okay with unhappiness that when it occurs, we smiled gently to ourselves and said, “Ahh, my sacred space is calling me. My invitation has arrived.”

Start by envisioning what your ideal space would look like. Picture yourself in it as you take three slow, long breaths in and out. And that’s it. Remember, you’re not expected to solve everything, simply start with the three questions, and see what comes up. Pleasure is wonderful. You deserve all the pleasure in your life that elevates your being. But with all the joy that pleasure brings, pleasure has never been the key to happiness. How you respond to unhappiness is what unlocks the golden door.

Annia Baron is a mum, Clinical Psychologist & Mindset Coach. Want to learn more about mindset tools to create a life you desire and deserve? Get in touch on Instagram @anniabaron or visit www.remindyourself.com.

Photo: Unsplash

TREVISITING THE 1956 OLYMPICS

he 2024 Olympics and Paralympics are imminent.

On 26 July thousands of athletes will converge in Paris to compete for the gold. As we prepare to cheer Australia on, let’s look back on when Melbourne hosted the Olympics in 1956.

This was a tumultuous time in history and angst hovered over the games like a dark cloud. The Cold War bubbled away in the background. Revolutions and invasions were on the mind. The games were held in November and December to take advantage of Australia’s warmer months. No need to worry about what’s happening with the United States and Soviets when you’re under the Aussie sun sucking on a Paddle Pop.

Melbourne won the right to host by just one vote over Buenos Aires. It was the first time the Games were held in the southern hemisphere. One of the first roadblocks for the International Olympic Committee was Australia’s strict quarantine laws. Good luck getting a banana in, let alone a whole horse. For this reason, the equestrian events were held separately in Sweden.

No Olympics is complete without some political turmoil, and 1956 was no different. There was a lower number of attendees than usual. This was partly due to Australia’s remoteness, but mostly, several countries boycotted this Olympics.

On 29 October, Israel invaded Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, which led to Egypt, Lebanon and Iraq withdrawing in protest. Then on 4 November, Soviet troops invaded Budapest, Hungary. This resulted in the protest withdrawal of the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland. This was the first major boycott in modern Olympic history. Hungary and the Soviet Union still competed, and this resulted in the most explosive event of this Olympics.

The Blood in the Water match, known in Hungary as the Blood Bath of Melbourne, was a water polo match between Hungary and the Soviet Union. Against the backdrop of their armed conflict, there was more at stake for the competitors than a medal. Tension was in the air as onlookers cheered on Hungary and booed the Soviets. When the game started, the athletes wasted no time in breaking rules and niceties of water polo. The water was literally blood red in several areas during the match, as players would use any form of violence they could manage. The name Blood in the Water was coined after Hungarian

No Olympics is complete without some political turmoil, and 1956 was no different.

player Ervin Zádor emerged with blood pouring from above his eye after being punched by a Soviet player. In the end, Hungary won out with a 4-0 victory.

Despite the turmoil, angst, and rivalries, the 1956 Olympics ultimately came to be known as ‘The Friendly Games’.

A young Melburnian named John Ian Wing penned a letter to the Olympic committee. The 17-yearold carpenter apprentice of Chinese descent had a suggestion on how to close the ceremony. Instead of marching as teams behind their national flags, he proposed that the athletes walk freely as one group, without regard to nationality or sport, as a symbol of world unity. This suggestion was taken aboard. As the Olympians marched, the Melbourne crowd serenaded them with the Scottish poem, Will Ye’ No’ Come Back Again? Emotion swept over the field. There were tears, and after the Olympic flag went out, a great silence. This has been tradition ever since.

“During the march there will only be one nation. War, politics and nationality will be all forgotten, what more could anybody want, if the world could be made as one nation.”

—Extract from the letter by John Wing, 1956.

TURNING THE TELEVISION ON

Just a couple months before the 1956 Olympics, in September 1956, Australian mainstream television launched. Just in time to cover the games! That was television’s highpoint! For many Australians,

their first glimpse of television was of this Olympics. As only around five thousand televisions had been sold by the time of the Games, the Australian audience largely watched them at community halls and at Ampol petrol stations.

Women's track relay team

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