Bendigo Magazine - Issue 70 - Autumn 2023

ISSUE 70 | AUTUMN 2023 bendigomagazine.com.au

SWEET SOUNDS ORCHESTRA IN TUNE FOR NEW SEASON

ISSN 1833-1289 AUD $5.95 (Inc. GST)

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dear reader,

Autumn is the perfect time to stroll through the city streets, admire the golden leaves of Rosalind Park, take in the latest exhibitions at local galleries, and sample our region’s vintage wines and fresh produce. As Lauren DeStefano aptly says, autumn “is the time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale”.

And so it is with the city’s calendar of events. While we’re dusting off our jackets and scarves in preparation for the cooler months, the city is preparing for another season of splendour celebrating our culture, our heritage and our unique community.

Soon the streets will be lined with spectators vying for the perfect position to watch the Bendigo Easter Festival processions, while avid readers will line up to meet their favourite authors at the Bendigo Writers Festival.

In the pages of the Bendigo Magazine, we meet many locals who are making waves in their own way. Alan Hoare talks about how a life-changing illness inspired him to join Sailability, a not-for-profit program run by volunteers at Lake Weeroona where people with disabilities learn the ropes of a water sport that offers them a welcome sense of freedom. Bendigo Health plastic surgeon Alex Cameron explains that connection with people fuses his two worlds of health and music, as well as a connection with the land. And Kylie Carra is using her professional background and interest in helping former service members to complete major research into how veterans “fill the void” when they leave the military.

We hope these stories and more inspire our readers to achieve their dreams and continue to be proud of this place we call home.

Happy reading.

FROM THE TEAM 4

MANAGING EDITOR Dustin Schilling PHOTOGRAPHERS Leon Schoots, AJ Taylor and Daniel Soncin WRITERS Dianne Dempsey, Geoff Hocking, Lauren Mitchell, Raelee Tuckerman and Sue Turpie CONTRIBUTORS Beau Cook, Stephanie Dunne, Anna Knight and Lisa Chesters PRINT MANAGER Nigel Quirk ADVERTISING advertising@bendigomagazine.com.au PO Box 5003 Bendigo, VIC 3550 Phone: 0438 393 198

Bendigo Magazine takes all care but accepts no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Bendigo Magazine holds copyright to all content unless otherwise stated.

ISSN 1833-1289.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences including any loss or damage arising from reliance on information in this publication.

The views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the editor or the publisher.

Visit the Living Arts Space

Showcasing works created by local artists from Bendigo and the central Victorian region, the Living Arts Space presents exhibitions, workshops and artist talks throughout the year for a unique visitor experience celebrating the region’s contemporary arts, culture and heritage.

Find us on

Image credit: Daikota Nelson

Edible gifts Unearth locally grown and produced delights from the City and region of Gastronomy. Indulge with delicious treats to take home and savour your Bendigo experience.

Can’t decide on a gift for that special person in your life? Come in and let us help you create a one-of-a-kind, City of Gastronomy hamper.

Shop in-store or online.

Gift wrapping and click and collect available. www.uniquelybendigo.com.au

Make your own hamper • Local produce • Hand crafted items • Something for every budget • Complimentary gift wrapping

BENDIGO VISITOR CENTRE Open 9am to 5pm daily (except Christmas Day) 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo • 03 5434 6060 • tourism@bendigo.vic.gov.au www.bendigoregion.com.au • #Explore Bendigo • Find us on

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contents

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PEOPLE & LIFE

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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There be giants - Sandy Creek Clydesdales

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In perfect harmony - Bendigo Symphony Orchestra

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Filling the void - Kylie Carra

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Promise and hope - Djaa Djuwima

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Sound connections - Alex Cameron

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Identity by design - Australiana: Designing a Nation

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Driven to distraction - Bendigo Memories

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A leading role - Mitch Graham

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Mark and Bec - Wedding feature

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Redesigning a classic - Recipe with Beau Cook

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Smooth sailing - Sailability Bendigo

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Pick your drop - Wine tasting

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First-hand experience - Maiden Gully Mavericks

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Be inspired - Garden feature

FOOD & WINE & HOME

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A GOLDEN DAY AT THE RACES If you want to experience all the thrills of city-class racing without needing to drive to Melbourne, head to the Bendigo Jockey Club on Saturday, April 1. The Golden Mile Raceday is a standalone metropolitan race meeting held in Bendigo each year, and sees the best city-class horses come to town for a big day of racing.

The event has the ideal casual country atmosphere, largely due to racegoers being encouraged to ditch the usual formal attire and embrace a more laid-back look. Fashion-forward attendees will still be able to strut their stuff and win great prizes at Bendigo Marketplace’s Fashions on the Field.

It’s a day that attracts widespread attention, with keen punters coming from across the region and interstate in hopes of backing a winner. Whether you sit in the grandstand or trackside under an umbrella or marquee, you’ll have a great view of all the action on and off the track.

The Golden Mile Raceday is on Saturday, April 1, at the Bendigo Jockey Club, with gates opening at 11am. Tickets and packages can be purchased at country.racing.com/bendigo

endless fun and festivity Our region is known for its love of culture, sport and community spirit and this autumn, there are plenty of events to prove it.

EASTER TRADITIONS CONTINUE Easter in Bendigo is a special time. Since 1871, the community has spent the long weekend out and about on the streets, enjoying the extensive activities and events on offer as part of the Bendigo Easter Festival.

Everyone’s favourite Easter activities will be returning for another year. Be sure to explore the more than 200 stalls at the Rotary Market, search for eggs during the Vision Australia Easter Egg Hunt, and seek thrills through the Bendigo Bank Carnival Central rides and games.

Making its festival debut is Kaleidoscope, a mirror maze experience designed to disorientate the senses through a symphony of light and sound. Another unmissable event for the kids is the Paw Patrol shows and meet-and-greet on the main stage in Rosalind Park.

But, as usual, the Gala Parade and the Torchlight Procession will be the highlights of the festival, showcasing the breadth of artistic talent and cultural diversity in the community.

After two years of COVID-19 cancellations and changes, then a partly rained-out festival in 2022, locals are looking forward to once again experiencing the full festival they know and love.

The Bendigo Easter Festival takes place from April 7 to 10. For the full schedule of events, visit bendigoeasterfestival.org.au

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Such is Life. And such is Bendigo Writers Festival ’23, a packed program of excellent writers presenting memorable discussions from every possible angle – just like life.

With a nod to Australia’s first acclaimed novelist, Joseph Furphy, our Such is Life Festival gathers together more brilliance than a Bendigo goldmine, so prepare to be dazzled.

80 EVENTS ACROSS 4 DAYS 125 SPEAKERS • 7 VENUES CREATIVE KIDS PROGRAM Live onscreen with host Benjamin Law onstage in Ulumbarra

View the program and book your tickets at

: Parisa-Taghizade age h Im

BENDIGO EXCLUSIVE: Nick Horny author of Fever Pitch, High Fidelity and About a Boy

bendigowritersfestival.com.au

GALLERY LOOKS OUT FOR PARENTS Any parent knows how hard it can be to take a baby to a place where quietness is usually desired, such as the movies or a museum. When your child cries, it feels like every other patron is judging you for daring to disturb them.

To help out parents and allow them to engage in a cultural experience without needing to find child care, Bendigo Art Gallery is once again offering free Stroller Tours. Parents, carers and their babies are invited in before opening hours for an exclusive private walk through the gallery’s exhibitions.

Four tours will be offered in the first half of the year, and prior knowledge of art is not required. It is simply a chance to experience the gallery and its art in a judgment-free zone, where crying babies are more than welcome.

Bendigo Art Gallery’s Stroller Tours take place on the first Tuesday of every month, between March and June. To book a free ticket, head to bendigoregion.com.au

WRITERS BRING BENDIGO TO LIFE May is the time of year most adored by Bendigo’s bibliophiles.

The chilly weather provides the perfect excuse to snuggle up and read under a warm blanket, but it’s also when some of the world’s best writers come to town for four days of thoughtprovoking and stimulating conversation about the written word.

The Bendigo Writers Festival returns in early May, and it promises to be the best festival yet. Paying tribute to Joseph Furphy, considered Australia’s first celebrated novelist, the City of Greater Bendigo and partner La Trobe University have curated 70 events around the theme Such Is Life.

In one of the most highly anticipated events, acclaimed author Nick Hornby will beam live into Ulumbarra Theatre from London for a Bendigo-exclusive discussion about his recent novel, Dickens and Prince. Other featured authors include Helen Garner, Tom Keneally and Victor Kelleher.

Junior book lovers aren’t short of fun at this year’s festival, with the first day dedicated to the free school program Word Spot. On Saturday and Sunday, Dudley House will also be home to the Kids’ Place, a special new series of children’s events and activities curated by Cecile Shanahan.

Another exciting new feature is Professor Clare Wright’s series of weekend sessions, Ideas and Society. Attendees can also grab their favourite writer’s works at the festival bookshop, managed by Bookish Bendigo.

The Bendigo Writers Festival takes place from May 4 to 7.

To view the complete program and purchase tickets, head to bendigowritersfestival.com.au

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RACEDAY

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SATURDAY 1 APRIL CITY RACING COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE Over $1.4 million in prizemoney on offer PACKAGES AVAILABLE Carlton Draught Punters Club Fingerfood, Beer, Wine, Champagne & Soft drink $150 Silks Dining 3 Course Meal including Entrée, Main and Afternoon Tea, 5 Hour Drinks Package $180 Mini Marquees $500 – 10 pax Trackside Umbrella Package $325 – 10 pax Terrace and Deck - Cash Bar $700 20-30 guests General Admission $20 • Kids Under 16 Free

Phone 03 5448 4209 Email info@bendigo.countryracing.com.au country.racing.com/bendigo

LEGENDARY OPERA HITS ULUMBARRA Opera lovers won’t want to miss this. Over six weeks in March and April, the biggest opera ever is making its way to Bendigo. Ulumbarra Theatre will host Richard Wagner’s epic four-part, 15-hour Der Ring des Nibelungen (Ring Cycle), which has never before been staged in regional Australia.

The German music drama was completed by Wagner in 1874, after more than two-and-a-half decades of writing. It premiered in 1876 at the Bayreuth Festival in Germany, where it has continued to be performed almost every year since. Ring Cycle’s story was inspired

by Norse mythology, and has gathered a legion of dedicated fans who travel the world for performances.

After concert versions and stagings of individual parts, the Melbourne Opera is producing the full cycle for the first time, exclusive to Bendigo. A 90-piece orchestra will accompany an all-Australian cast, which will perform the libretto in Wagner’s native German.

The Bendigo season offers the opportunity to purchase tickets to individual operas, or for the most dedicated, full cycle tickets are available, allowing two consecutive weekends of operatic bliss.

The Ring Cycle will be performed in three cycles between March 24 and April 30 at Ulumbarra Theatre. For tickets, visit bendigoregion.com.au

BENDIGO BANK REFERRAL PROGRAM Bendigo Bank is a proud Platinum Sponsor of Bendigo Health Fundraising & Foundation and has committed its long-term involvement with Bendigo Health to support paediatric services for children in our region.

The Bendigo Bank Referral Program allows each new eligible Bendigo Bank loan referred by Bendigo Health to assist your regional health service.

You can help by bringing your banking across to Bendigo Bank, which will then contribute funds to our hospital’s paediatric services at no cost to you when you mention Bendigo Health.

Bendigo Bank will make a payment to Bendigo Health for the following services when you indicate you’d like your banking to support Bendigo Health: home loans and home equity loans; personal loans; business loans; business overdrafts; credit cards; equipment loans; chattel mortgages; leases; asset purchases; and novated leases.

Terms and conditions apply. No personal information regarding loans or accounts is provided to Bendigo Health.

To find out more, visit your local branch and tell them you’d like your banking to support Bendigo Health (referrer code 40589), phone 1300 236 344 or visit www.bendigohealthfoundation.org.au/banking-for-good

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ICE CREAM DREAMS COME TRUE AT THE GALLERY These school holidays, explore a world of icecream and fun at the Bendigo Art Gallery. To support the exclusive Australiana: Designing a Nation exhibition, artist Kenny Pittock has created an Ice-cream Zone, full of ice-creamthemed activities for the whole family.

The installation 100 Ice-creams invites you to find your favourite tasty treats, and you can dream up a flavour of your own through video and drawing activities led by Kenny. There will even be a mural of a giant Rainbow Paddle Pop, which is sure to invoke playful nostalgia in viewers.

Curated and presented in partnership with the National Gallery of Victoria, the Australiana: Designing a Nation exhibition will run exclusively at the Bendigo Art Gallery from March 18 to June 25.

The free Ice-cream Zone can be accessed during gallery opening hours in the April school holidays. No bookings are required. For more information about the exhibition, visit bendigoregion.com.au

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A PERFECT WEEKEND AT VIN DU VAN If you’re after a day of casual elegance, take a drive out to Mandurang and visit Vin du Van Estate. Named by RACV as one of the five best new Victorian wineries in 2022, the recently renovated family business boasts beautiful views and even better wines.

Previously known as Lynnevale Estate, Vin du Van has operated for the past two years as a working vineyard with a cellar door, bistro and bed and breakfast. It has quickly developed a reputation for having a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for any occasion, especially weddings.

The cellar door is open from 11am to 5pm on weekends and public holidays, allowing visitors to indulge in tastings of the estate’s small-batch varieties of white, red and rosé wines.

There’s also plenty of delicious food at the bistro, and you can even bring your furry friend along.

If one afternoon at the estate hasn’t satisfied you, book into the unique onsite GlamourVAN accommodation. Vintage campervan Nellie provides a cosy place to spend the night, with capacity soon set to double with new van Polly.

From the lovely wines to the stunning scenery, there’s so much on offer at Vin du Van Estate, and the team can’t wait to welcome you for an unrivalled vineyard experience in the Bendigo region.

Vin du Van Estate is located at 83 Cahills Road, Mandurang.

For bookings, call 03 5439 3635 or email info@vinduvanestate.com

quality and quantity This season Bendigo businesses are ensuring support is there when needed, rekindling their love of the region, and renovating the family estate with exciting results.

INSURANCE SOLUTIONS FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY Community Insurance Solutions has had a big couple of years.

Since being founded in 2014 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, it has continuously provided quality advice and first-class insurance solutions to business and farm clients across Australia.

It is now proudly offering these services as a subsidiary of Community Broker Network (CBN), Australia‘s largest general insurance authorised broker network, after an acquisition in 2021. CBN is part of the Steadfast Group.

Becoming part of CBN has allowed Community Insurance Solutions to grow significantly. While celebrating the head office grand opening in late 2022, it was also busy setting up a second regional office following the acquisition of a long-standing and highly successful insurance brokerage based in Hamilton.

Seven staff members now work from the head office in Bendigo, across from the All Seasons Hotel on McIvor Highway, with additional staff located in Adelaide, Ballarat, Geelong, Hamilton, Horsham, Shoalhaven Heads, and Wangaratta.

Having an accredited team of 17 spread across Victoria and interstate, combined with the latest technology, allows Community Insurance Solutions extensive market reach and influence, and ensures its business and farm clients receive the

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very best insurance outcomes.

No matter what your insurance needs are, the business will be there to support you and come through for you when you need it most.

To discuss insurance options with the friendly team at Community Insurance Solutions, call into the Bendigo office, or phone 1300 132 983 or visit www.cisbroker.com.au for more information.

A NEW FACE IN BENDIGO LAND SALES Brett Simpson is falling in love with Bendigo again after many years of selling homes in Ballarat. Growing up, Brett often travelled to Bendigo with his family and their racing horses, attending regular meets at the Bendigo Harness Racing Club.

Later in life, he spent time with good friend and local publican Andrew at some of Bendigo’s best drinking spots.

Nowadays, it’s more about George’s Bakehouse in Huntly and settling in for a coffee with a local builder or customer.

“I spent four years at PRD Real Estate selling new homes, then moved to Hotondo Homes selling for planned builds,” he says.

“Now I’m into land sales.”

Specifically, Viewpoint in Huntly, a development that has already caught the attention of many.

“There is a wetland neighbouring Viewpoint Central Park starting construction this spring and a new display village coming with 15 display homes from 10 different builders,” Brett says.

And does he have any advice for potential buyers?

“I would say, just do it. Don’t be like me, looking back and saying I wish I had bought that blockthen.”

FUTURE IS LOOKING BRIGHT Two established and well respected names in real estate are joining forces much to the benefit of the region.

You can contact Brett on 0475 111 162 or email brett@ integragroup.com.au He’s sure to shout you a coffee at George’s in Huntly.

Belle Property will be opening three central Victorian offices in Bendigo, Castlemaine and Maldon led by the respected Waller family of Rob and Narelle Waller, with lead agent Tim Noonan as Principal and Co-Director of the Bendigo office.

Operating for more than 30 years as Waller Realty, the family name is synonymous with high-quality personalised real estate services and involvement in the local community.

Rob Waller says joining the Belle Property group was a strategic move positioning the company for future growth.

“We’ve long admired Belle Property’s premium marketing and extended network covering all arms of real estate and property services,” Rob says. “The culture, values and direction of the brand align perfectly with ours and we look forward to harnessing the power of Belle Property to provide an even greater service to the people of Bendigo, Castlemaine, Maldon and surrounds.”

He also explains that the group’s internal training systems and affiliations with Sitchu Magazine and online international portals Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LeadingRE) were also drawcards.

“Belle Property has an all-encompassing offering of exceptional marketing, national and global reach together with strong support from the head office team,” Rob says. “We would love to grow our team and believe Belle Property will help us attract quality people who share our passion for excellence.”

Belle Property CEO Peter Hanscomb welcomed the Waller Realty team to the group.

“Regional Victoria is a thriving market that we have been looking to expand into for a long while,” Peter says. “I’m thrilled to welcome Rob, Narelle, Tim and the entire team to Belle Property and I look forward to seeing their business grow and thrive.”

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there be

giants

LAUREN MITCHELL spends an afternoon glimpsing a different way to live, with the Thompson family of Sandy Creek Clydesdales.

Photography by Leon Schoots It’s a still summer’s day when Bendigo Magazine visits the Sandy Creek Clydesdales stud on the outskirts of Maldon. Horses stand with their head low and a back hoof cocked, waiting out the late afternoon heat. A stone cottage humbly fronts the dirt road, as it has for more than 160 years.

Jaimie Thompson has just returned from the school run with six-yearold son Billie, while husband Matt rolls up in a tractor, with two-yearold Hunter beside him, all tousled blond hair and gumboots. It feels both special, yet ordinary all at once. And you’ve got to think, how does a young family come to live like this?

“People assume this is a generational thing,” Jaimie says. “But Matt started all of this from scratch when he was a teenager.”

Matt grew up on a sheep and cattle farm in nearby Muckleford, and as a young teen got the opportunity to learn some blacksmithing skills.

“The bloke who taught me had a couple of Clydesdales and he said to me, ‘If you’re going to be a blacksmith, you should get yourself some 16

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Clydies’,” Matt recalls.

He collected one, then two, as you do, then at the age of 18 was offered the chance to purchase a five-horse team after their elderly owner passed away.

“I jumped in the deep end a little bit,” Matt says. “I had no idea what I was doing for a while. Going from two to seven horses in harness is a pretty big jump and I had to learn pretty quickly, but when we bought the team of five, they somehow came with an old bloke.

Somehow. And he said, ‘I’ll come out and help you’. He was one of the last farmers off the horses in his district. He didn’t get out until he was about 30 and his dad had them before him. He had a good understanding of how to drive them.”

Meanwhile, Matt was undertaking another, more formal apprenticeship: in heavy fabrication at Taits Decorative Iron in Castlemaine, on the forge, crafting scrollwork. It was good practice not only for this profession, but for the countless horseshoes he’d soon be making. “It’s a lot cheaper to make them yourself,” he laughs.

The next phase in the evolution of Sandy Creek was an invitation, via Facebook, to drive the horse-drawn wagons at Ballarat theme park Sovereign Hill. “It’s not very often you get asked if you want a job, so I thought, why not?” There, Matt met Jaimie, who was also working with the horses.

“I come from a family where my mum was riding while pregnant, so I’ve literally been riding my whole life,” Jaimie says. “I went to pony club for 17 years, did all the shows, competed at nationals, then got to the stage in life where I needed a job. So I stopped riding for a little bit and started doing the normal nine-to-five. When I couldn’t

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daydream out the window anymore and saw a job at Sovereign Hill working with the horses, I thought I’d do that instead.”

The pair joined forces to create their unconventional life in Maldon, raising their family, looking after their myriad animals, and fostering the dying trade of working horses. Sandy Creek currently has 26 Clydesdales and an active breeding program that will see another seven foals born this year. The horses are used to help educate people who want to learn to drive in harness. They’re regularly floated around the country to attend heavy horse shows; they’re often seen in Maldon for special events and the odd Sunday trek; and the foals are carefully matched with people wishing to purchase, around Australia and overseas.

Matt says for a horse that once shaped the nation, Clydesdales are now an anomaly among horse owners. There’s only 3000 registered Clydesdales left in Australia and under 10,000 world-wide.

“It’s a dying trade,” Jaimie adds. “It is a lost trade, what we offer and what we do with our horses. Because it’s such an old breed, you’ve got to think that the generation that worked with them, they’re older too now. They’re relying on their children to carry on the breeding programs, but you have to love it to do it because there is no money in it.” And, there’s a lot of work.

During COVID-19 restrictions, Jaimie and Matt took the time to focus on their breeding program, welcoming seven foals last year.

“In the horse world, Clydesdales are one of the hardest breeds of

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horses to breed,” Jaimie says. “Because they’re born so big, their immune system is quite weak. They’re also prone to getting stuck.

Anything that you think can go wrong in breeding horses, Clydies are prone to it. We have to monitor them 24/7 for three weeks either side of when you think the due date is. We take it in turns to get up every two hours through the night to check them. You can put monitors on them, but nothing beats seeing what’s going on. We did it from August to December last year and it was a long season.”

Matt adds: “A lot of small breeders do it for a couple of years then say, no it’s too hard. But if we don’t do it, and others don’t do it, no one’s doing it… Our generation looks at it and goes, why would I want to do something that’s going to cost me so much time and money? It’s our passion.”

Although, it very nearly wasn’t. Back when Matt was 18 and on the cusp of a life with horses, he was also passionate about football. A talented player with the South Bendigo Football Club, he was hoping to be drafted into the AFL. He’d done the TAC draft camp and was on the field the day the scouts came. Then, he broke his shoulderblade during the game.

Matt stopped training four days a week to recover, and while the scouts were returning to see him play, he says he lost the drive for footy, and chose the horses instead.

“Sometimes I think I’d like to be a footballer’s trophy wife,” laughs Jaimie, quickly adding, “No, I’d get bored.”

We leave the family to transport a couple of horses to Maryborough that evening, then prepare to drive yet others up to Sydney for a national show that weekend. As Matt says: “It’s a lifestyle.”

After attending Bendigo’s Lost Trades Fair this March, Jaimie and Matt will be busy with Clydesdale Adventures during the Easter holidays.

Visit the Sandy Creek Clydesdales Facebook page or website for details.

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Harper, Shardae and Willow

Jacobi and Holly

Joanne and Adrian

Laura, Brent and Thomas

Millie, Peter and Spencer with Christmas characters

Mitch, Nadia and Jeremiah

LIGHTING UP THE HOLIDAYS The countdown to Christmas officially commenced with the lighting of Bendigo’s beloved Christmas tree.

As Christmas spirit filled the Rosalind Park Piazza, joyful crowds were treated to plenty of festive fun as part of the Summer in the Parks kick-off. Ahead of the main event, swimming star Jenna Strauch gave an inspirational talk about her career.

Building on an educational tradition that began in 1873 with the Bendigo School of Mines, La Trobe is proud to be part of the cultural and educational fabric of the City of Greater Bendigo.

Explore more than 150 courses, build professional networks and develop career-ready skills when you study with us at our regional campuses – book a one-on-one consultation today.

Discuss your study options with a local future student advisor. Book a free 1:1 consult here: Latrobe.edu.au/consult

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Amelie, Ella and Justine

Autumn, Jett, Nicholas and Tyga-Rose

Aston and Zhalia

Leigh and Aimee

MERRY MARKET A HIT Christmas is the perfect time to shop for handmade and homegrown goods.

Lulu, Ah Blu, Cynthia and Ethan

Max and Clint

Locals know this, and they turned up in droves to the last Moonlight Market of 2022 to purchase gifts for their loved ones from boutique retail stalls. As usual, there was also delicious food to devour and entertaining live music.

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in perfect harmony With Luke Severn at the helm and an ensemble boasting some of the finest classical musicians in the region, the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra promises a new program of diverse and magical music.

By Sue Turpie - Photography by Leon Schoots Behind every orchestral performance is hours of practice, a wealth of theoretical knowledge and solid leadership. Add to this, extensive thought given to the selection of performance pieces. How do you choose from a catalogue that spans countless countries and hundreds of years? That task was undertaken by Luke Severn when selecting the program for the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra’s 2023 season. The result is a diverse range of compositions that highlight the amazing skill level of our regional musicians.

Luke took on the role of conductor of the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra in July 2019 and since then has worked on expanding the ensemble both through the breadth of performance music, as well as increased exposure to new audiences and potential guest performers and members. The organisation’s reputation and proven professionalism is reflected in the calibre of soloists who will take to the stage with the orchestra this year.

“We are very much looking forward to the year ahead and delivering a showcase celebrating world-class musicians and experienced conductors, including the acclaimed Graham Abbott,” says Luke.

Other guest artists and soloists include world-renowned pianist Elyane Laussade, young pianist Lily Begg, rising star Kyla MatsuuraMiller and American mezzo-soprano Kristen Leich. There will also be solo performances by members of the orchestra.

This year’s season includes four distinct programs: Unfinished, Light and Shade, Scheherazade, and Ebbs and Flows.

The guest conductor for Light and Shade is Graham Abbott, who for the past 30 years has led all of the major orchestras. Luke explains that the name for this came from a conversation he was having with Graham about what music he would like to perform. “He said there was ‘too much darkness, I need something that’s light’, and so we picked a Schumann symphony, which is the light to the shade of the chosen piano concerto.”

Scheherazade, composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, is based on One Thousand and One Nights, while the final performance Ebbs and Flows features music themed around water, such as Strauss’s Blue Danube and Dvorak’s The Water Sprite.

“Last year, our season included sold-out performances,” says Luke. “We’re looking forward to repeating this success in 2023 and encourage the community to come and enjoy an excellent display of cultural enrichment in our beautiful Ulumbarra and Capital theatres. The season promises to be a truly memorable experience.

“Our diverse program will also highlight the skills and experience of our talented orchestra, made up of passionate professional and high-quality amateur musicians.”

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One such musician is clarinet player Jacquie Tolhurst, who has been a member of the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra for about five years.

Like many other members, Jacquie has dedicated her life to music, starting at the piano and then moving to the woodwind family.

With so many instruments to choose from, what was it that saw Jacquie first pick up the clarinet? Chance, physical constraints, and guidance from a family member. Her relative, Trev Trewartha, was already an established brass instrument player and band member in Bendigo, and when some brass musicians came to her primary school, Jacquie was initially keen to play the trombone. “But my arms weren’t long enough,” she laughs. “I’m not the tallest person, and Trev suggested the clarinet because of my small hands. The rest is history.”

The world of music is a community with many members connected through family, friends, bands, orchestras or education. Many of the region’s best classical musicians are members of the orchestra, as demonstrated by Jacquie’s musical journey.

“I started learning clarinet in year seven at Golden Square Secondary College. My first clarinet teacher there was Cynthia Holsworth, who is the current secretary and principal flute player in the BSO,” says Jacquie. “My VCE classroom music teacher, Diane Chapman, is also a cellist in the orchestra. They both helped foster my love for music. There are lots of music teachers in the orchestra and lots of past connections from school years.”

After studying music throughout high school, as well as being a member of the Bendigo Youth Orchestra, Jacquie went on to complete a Bachelor of Music at the Conservatorium of Music in Melbourne and a Master of Music (Performance Teaching), residing in Melbourne from 2006 to 2018. She returned to her hometown with her husband and is now on maternity leave from teaching at Bendigo Senior Secondary College, looking after their two children.

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Being a member of the orchestra is the perfect opportunity for Jacquie to gain performance experience, connect with other musicians, perform beautiful orchestral works, and enjoy something for herself.

“It’s lovely to be part of such a welcoming group. I’ve made some wonderful friendships and gotten to know other teachers and other people who are passionate about music. Most of all, I love making music and sharing my love of music with others. That creative outlet is probably number one… and it’s a bit of me time now that I’ve got two kids. I always come home buzzing and feeling really positive after rehearsals. Luke brings energy and a wealth of musical knowledge to rehearsals. He inspires the orchestra to play musically and to the best of our ability.”

With the 2023 season already underway, Jacquie is excited about where the orchestra is and what they can achieve moving forward, especially given how much they have developed under the current conductor’s guidance. While she favours the Romantics and 20th Century-style pieces, she’s happy to play whatever music is put on her stand with the BSO. “Most music is good music,” she laughs. “It’s always nice if there’s some clarinet solos in there, as it gives me a challenge and something to focus on through some targeted practice. But I’m really enjoying all the pieces in the current program. They’re all such powerful music with rich harmonies and beautiful melodies.

There are lovely wind moments across all these works, where we need to work together for blend and balance.”

Something we’re sure audiences will appreciate and love.

For further information on the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra or to book for a performance, visit bendigosymphonyorchestra.org.au or gotix.com.au

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18 March – 25 June 2023 Art and design of Australian identity and style Exhibition organised by Bendigo Art Gallery in partnership with the National Gallery of Victoria. bendigoartgallery.com.au

Ken Done, Sydney Sunday (detail) 1982, oil and acrylic on canvas. Collection of the artist.

@bendigoartgallery

MINIONS MANIA STRIKES BENDIGO

Artemis, John and Merrigan

Crew and Tahnee

Harper and Tamika

Dan, Isla and Katie

Louis, Sophie and Callum

Marshall, Kaius, Cove and Angie

The ever-popular Minions were the stars of Axedale’s Summer in the Parks event.

Playing at the City of Greater Bendigo and Agnico Eagle’s outdoor cinema was Minions: The Rise of the Gru, leaving the children in attendance laughing with joy at the antics of the small yellow creatures.

Open 7 Days 8 am to 4 pm Public Holidays 9am - 4pm We look forward to welcoming you seven days a week with our traditional opening hours.

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Erin, Amy and Akalia

Fred, Geordie, Gayle and Trev

CHRISTMAS WITH COMPASSION Jessica, Max and Rebecca

Samarth and Apurva

Mel and Stephen

Sophie, Cooper, Shona and Shaun

Christmas celebrations at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion were an impressive spectacle.

The regular Enlighten event was given a festive twist in December, with immersive displays and sculptures lighting up the night and stunning the attendees. The roaming performers and Christmas choirs were a huge hit, as was the appearance of Santa Claus.

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promise & hope Bendigo’s first Indigenous art gallery gives First Nations people the opportunity to share their stories and connect curious patrons to their culture.

By Dianne Dempsey - Photography by Leon Schoots Bendigo’s first Indigenous art gallery is called Djaa Djuwima, which means to share Country. Given the tragic history of the First Nations people, the desire to now share a culture that was once under attack must be seen as a generous one.

Fortunately, this willingness to share has been reciprocated by the hundreds of people who have been attending the gallery.

First Nations arts officer Aunty Janet Bromley says that since Djaa Djuwima opened in December 2022, members of the public have been coming through in huge numbers, about 2000 people a month. “These numbers are important to know because we can demonstrate that we have great support for future expansion,” Janet says.

“And the people who come through, both local and from elsewhere, want to know about the past: what was here, what our people did, what happened to them. I tell the story when I can, but while the City of Greater Bendigo has been great in supporting a gallery, there’s no funding for someone to be in attendance all the time.”

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Janet relishes the moments when she is in the gallery. “One day when I was there, a young boy was talking to his father and trying to work out why the shield we had on display was so small. I was able to explain to the boy that if he looked behind the shield, he would see a handle. I told him our men would hold the shield out from their body, to deflect the spears as they came towards them.”

Before the exhibition opened, curator Janet called for expressions of interest from local First Nations artists. They were told the overarching theme was how they connected to Dja Dja Wurrung Country. The 22 artists selected used a variety of mediums, including oils, acrylic, natural fibres and ochre.

As well as exhibiting, the artists have the opportunity to sell their work. As the gallery isn’t staffed, potential buyers can contact the artists through the information accompanying their works. While the resulting sales and commissions are gratifying, so is the interest of buyers in the cultural context of the work they buy.

Dja Dja Wurrung and Bangerang artist Kerri Douglas uses a variety of mediums that reflect her Aboriginal heritage. “I love it when people want to talk about the stories in the work. I tell them, we’re all connected when we’re on Country. We may appear different, but we’re all the same,” she says.

“For example, when I tell people about the ochre pit, they get it straight away.” Kerri’s work often employs multi-shaded ochres she sources from an ochre pit near her home. “Everyone wants to know where the pit is,” she laughs, “but it’s a bit like a fishing spot – it’s our secret.”

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One of the characteristics of the exhibition is that family members are displayed side by side. Kerri’s daughter Jacinta also has work in the exhibition. Artist Georgina Risley says that when her girls Ally and Paige Charles were living at home, they often painted together.

“It’s a family pastime and a way of relaxing,” she says simply.

Like Kerri Douglas, Georgina uses her commissions as a chance to explain her culture to buyers. The vivid colours of her work, the totems such as Bunjil and the long-neck turtle are all footsteps towards a shared culture.

This need of visitors to gain more insight into the First Nations history around Bendigo has become increasingly apparent to Janet Bromley since she came to Bendigo 10 years ago. A Yorta Yorta woman who grew up in Gippsland, Janet raised her children and grandchildren in Melbourne. When she moved to Bendigo, she completed a Master of Visual Art at La Trobe University and supported the NAIDOC Knuldoorong Art Exhibition. Using traditional and contemporary methods, she is herself an artist, a beautiful weaver. A granddaughter of the Stolen Generation, this is one of the stories she tells when she talks to visitors.

“We believe that from birth, your mother is your Country. And the woman who birthed you, and all the women are your mother. They are there to look after you, to grow you up to a certain stage. And if you are a boy, then you sit at some stage in a meeting where you are taught by the men. The old people are bedded in the Country.

If someone dies, the old, old wise people become trees. There are grandfather and grandmother trees, because those trees are grandmothers and grandfathers.

“In the early days, our people were likely to get killed if they walked around their Country, so they were taken into missions to protect them but the missionaries didn’t like the story of our Country, of Mother Earth. But we have kept it alive, still.

“I’ve heard white people say Aboriginal people are not around anymore. But I am here. These local artists are here. That’s why this gallery is so important – to show who we are.”

The exhibition runs until April 14 and will be followed by further exhibitions and workshops throughout the year. For inquiries about artists and exhibitions, contact j.bromley@bendigo.vic.gov.au

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Illustration by Bree Galvin

AN ENTHUSIASTIC AND PASSIONATE TEAM OF CHEFS IN THE PERCY KITCHEN CONTINUE TO STRIVE TO PERFECT OUR MENU WITH TRADITIONAL CAFÉ FARE AND MODERN ON-TREND DISHES. With locally sourced meats from award-winning butcher, Flora Hill Quality Meats, and local produce from Bendigo Fresh, our chefs convert these ingredients into fabulous fare, inspired by the Melbourne brunch aesthetic.

If your stomach is still not satisfied, there’s a stunning array of cakes, muffins and scones baked daily and carefully sourced from Peddling Pastry in Castlemaine.

CAROLS FOR THE COMMUNITY

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Clare, Ebi, Leila, James and Debbie

Matthew, Poppy, Laura and Oliver

Scott, Malakia and Nyasha

Sophie and Millie

It just wouldn’t be Christmas in Bendigo without Carols by Candlelight.

Christmas songs were sung as candles were waved in the air, beautifully lighting up Rosalind Park. The event was hosted by the Rotary Club of Bendigo for the 51st time, this year raising funds for Bendigo Health’s new children’s playground facilities.

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Jose, Melissa, Savannah, Diego and Nathaniel

Mackenzie, Tandy and Makayla

Liz, Paige and Chelsea

Madix, Denny and Dash

GOODBYE 2022, HELLO 2023 At 9.15pm on New Year’s Eve, young ones watched in awe as colourful fireworks lit up the sky.

Matt, Ari, Kim and Amber

Melissa, Max, Zoe, Nigel and Jake

The Queen Elizabeth Oval was packed with people wanting to celebrate the end of 2022 with the community, and a few hours later, 2023 was welcomed with another fireworks show above Bendigo.

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filling the void Driven by her passion for supporting individuals who complete military and community service, Kylie Carra is finding ways to give back to those who serve through her work as a doctoral researcher and lecturer in occupational therapy at the La Trobe Rural Health School.

By Anna Knight - Photography by Leon Schoots Coming from a family with a long history of military service, Kylie Carra knows first-hand the vital part the military plays in the lives and identities of those who serve – and how difficult the transition away from that identity can be.

Kylie’s professional background and interest in helping former service members prompted her to complete a major piece of research investigating how veterans “fill the void” when they leave the military – and how participation in meaningful activities can help them step back into civilian life.

“I have a huge amount of respect for people who serve in the military,” she says. “It’s an amazing sacrifice and such an important contribution to our country – and I wanted to find a way to give back.

“Having worked as an occupational therapist, and now teaching in the discipline, I was really interested to explore the profession’s potential to support the transition of former service members back into civilian life, and help them find a new sense of meaning and purpose in life.”

Coming from rural Victoria and now living and working in Bendigo, Kylie was particularly interested in researching how those in rural and regional areas could be supported.

“We know from the 2021 census that almost half of all former service members are transitioning to rural areas, where there may not be adequate access to specialist services and support.

“I wanted to know how occupational therapy might be used more effectively, particularly as approximately 50 per cent of former service members aren’t engaging with health services, even when they’re experiencing health difficulties.”

Occupational therapy is often focused on rehabilitation in community and hospital settings, but the discipline is incredibly broad, and Kylie is interested in some of its non-traditional applications.

“Occupational therapy is all about supporting people to improve their health through participation in meaningful activities – whether that be playing sport, gardening, volunteering, employment, creative practices – and participation in these activities is both the goal and the means to achieve that goal.

“Supporting people to do the things they find meaningful has a significant effect on their physical and mental wellbeing, but we don’t always reach everyone who needs this support.”

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Kylie felt that some people were falling through the cracks due to rural isolation, a lack of awareness in the community, and in part because they were not necessarily ‘injured’ in an obvious way.

“Even former service members who’d be considered ‘well’ – people who perhaps don’t have obvious physical or psychological injuries – tend to find adjusting to civilian life quite difficult.

“Moving away from their former military identity to find a new identity outside the military’s strong institutional structures can be really challenging.”

Kylie found that former service members’ activities fell into two groups.

An important part of the transition into civilian life was re-establishing a sense of safety and wellbeing, and the other vital aspect was the need to continue their service to the community in some way – whether through volunteering, employment or caring for family or pets.

“My research indicated that former service members have a very good understanding of what they need to do to recover and transition into civilian life, and they are often self-directing their own transitions without the support of health professionals.

“Ex-service members can be reluctant to reach out for help, as such a big part of their military training and identity is about strength, capability and the ability to withstand extreme circumstances.

“The people I spoke with had an incredible understanding of their service-related trauma experiences, and what they needed to do to overcome them.”

Kylie says we need a ‘whole-of-community’ approach to support former service members – recognising the unique skills and perspectives veterans have and establishing opportunities for employment, civic engagement, and participation in sporting and community groups.

“One of the biggest themes of my research was that ex-service members wanted to ‘continue to serve’ in some way – given service, sacrifice and community are strong values for military personnel – and finding ways to do this in the community really helped their transition.

“The same may be true for first responders, such as police, paramedics, and members of the CFA or SES who are transitioning back to everyday life after serving their communities. I’d like to investigate this in future research because occupational therapy can support individuals to find meaningful ways to contribute, even if they are out of uniform.”

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SUMMER VIBES IN HEATHCOTE

Brendan and Debra

Ebony, Lucas and Melissa

Laura and Matt

Nancy and Heather

Terri and Nick

Wendy, David, Mia, Sammii and Viki

Among the vines at Munari Wines was the perfect place for a celebration of summer.

The Heathcote winery hosted the Summer in the Vines event in early January, providing six hours of live music, food and, of course, wine. Taking the stage for the afternoon were locals Josh DeAraugo and Kate DeAraugo, and country band Darlinghurst.

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Amin and Maryam

Gary and Vicki

NEVER ALONE IN EAGLEHAWK Hunter, Anne, Brenda and Charles

Mick and Cath

Michelle and Linda

Rita and Therese

Film buffs settled into the Star Cinema’s comfy couches for the first night of the Eaglehawk Film Festival.

Returning for its second year, the festival screened eight films from around the world, all united by their title, Alone. A largely unknown but starstudded American drama from 1997 served as the launch film.

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sound

connections

Bendigo Health plastic surgeon and musician Alex Cameron reveals his two passions have more in common than would first seem.

By Sara Harte - Photograph by Kate Monotti

What are the parallels between plastic surgeons and rock guitarists?

After many years of pondering the question, Bendigo Health plastic surgeon Alex Cameron concludes it’s a very intense form of connection with people that fuses his two worlds. And like many Australians, connection with the land.

As a songwriter and guitarist in Adelaide rock band Bad // Dreems, he has released three studio albums since 2011 and toured with the likes of Midnight Oil around the country and the UK. A two-week tour through the Northern Territory and communities in Arnhem Land in 2022 has been a recent highlight.

“I was working in Darwin Hospital, as I do occasionally, in part due to the flexibility Bendigo Health allows,” says Alex. “We toured with Black Rock Band from Jabiru and played at the annual Gurindji Freedom Day Festival, which celebrates the legendary Wave Hill Walk-Off by Gurindji stockmen in the 1960s, kicking off a movement for land rights.”

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Bad // Dreems’ recent release Jack is a song about truth-telling and storytelling. “It deals with the ‘great Australian silence’ surrounding the true history of Australia pre- and post-colonisation. Not enough of these stories are told. Understanding someone’s story is the first step to being able to provide support or assistance, which is an ethos that I think is integral to medicine also.”

Working in all aspects of plastic surgery, Alex has a special interest in hand surgery, including complex hand trauma, melanoma and skin cancer and breast reconstruction.

He originally moved to Bendigo from Adelaide to work alongside Bendigo-raised plastic surgeon Broughton Snell, who founded the Bendigo Health Plastic Surgery service, as well as Sandhurst Plastic Surgery & Dermatology.

“I originally intended to only stay for one year, but I found that the hospital, the patients and the work-life balance were a great fit.

Bendigo Health is a fantastic team, across doctors, nurses and allied health. I grew up as a child of a country GP, and I think that imbued me with an affinity for rural people – their stoicism, good humour and the challenges they face accessing healthcare.”

Pictured under giant gumtrees and surrounded by granite boulders, Alex is confident he made the right choice.

“Despite the expansion of Bendigo Health, there is a strong community spirit that is refreshingly free of some of the conflict or division I’ve observed in large public hospitals,” he says.

Rather than distract or detract from his profession, Alex believes his musical career complements his surgical practice.

“Surgery and music are two very different beasts. Over the years, I have pondered why I am drawn intensely to such incongruous disciplines. The answer is that both involve privileged and powerful connections with people. It is a privilege to have people entrust you with their care. It is also a privilege to have people show interest in art that you have created. I find the connection engendered through these connections very fulfilling and inspiring.”

THIS PAGE: Photographs by Justin White

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Let the

Picnic Adventures begin!

Beechworth Bakery Bendigo 158 High Street Beechworth

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Echuca

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Albury

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Bendigo

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Ballarat

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Healesville

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Yackandandah

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Bright

NEW YEAR, NEW LOCATION

Suzi, Jeff and Scott

Jason and David

Kym and Scott

Maeve, Matt, Ty and Mel

Rainbow and Pippa

Sarah, Finn and Conor

It was an exciting start to 2023 for the Bendigo Community Farmers Market.

The January market was the first to be held at the Dai Gum San precinct, and it didn’t disappoint. Shoppers enthusiastically wandered from stall to stall, picking up some of the best and freshest produce the region has to offer.

Ava, Emily and Milla

Beth and Sarah

A HOPPY NEW YEAR Claudia and Grace

Jodi, Charlie, Jordan and Madi

To start the Year of the Rabbit, the Bendigo Chinese Association threw an impressive party.

Kiarah and Alice

Kyrstee, Harry and Ella

All 30 metres of dragon Gwong Loong delighted the crowd on Lunar New Year’s Eve, as did Fei Loong. The BCA Lion Team, the Plum Blossom dance team, and the HH Kung Fu Club also gave unmissable performances to welcome the new year.

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driven to distraction.

A love of all things exotic has taken Geoff Hocking on a multicultural mechanical journey traversing roads across Europe and Australia.

Words and illustration by Geoff Hocking I am looking at a photograph on my sideboard. It is an old photograph of my grandparents, taken in 1935, showing my grandmother being presented with the keys to a Chevrolet automobile she had just won in the 1935 Bendigo Easter Raffle.

My grandfather is standing by her side looking slightly bemused, even apprehensive. More than likely he is thinking, ‘Strewth. Now I have to learn how to drive. Now I will have to get a driver’s licence’.

As a family, we were never mechanically minded. While the ’35 Chevy was a big, strong and commodious vehicle, it was very reliable and needed very little attention in all the years it stayed in the family.

However, for most of us, we traded in and out of a lot of different motor marques over the years until we finally went Japanese.

If I ever responded to one of those questions such as ‘What advice would you give to your 18 year-old self?’ before today, I would answer ‘Buy a Holden ute’. Don’t muck about with French cars, or Italians. Eschew the elegant British. Forget about the Germans, the Danes and the Swedes – buy yourself a trusty workhorse. Buy yourself a Holden ute. But I wouldn’t have listened. I was enamoured of the exotic.

My first car was a Fiat 500. It had a fold-back soft sunroof. The car was so small that I would drive along sitting on the back of the driver’s seat, with my head out of the hole in the roof pretending that I had a sports car. So that is what I did next. I sold the Bambino and bought an MG. Built in 1949, the TC was almost the same age as me, at that time.

It was beautiful to look at; a devil to drive along in a straight line, and almost useless when it came to carting things about. Eventually I gave it up and traded it for an Austin Healey Sprite. My first modern car, it had wind-up windows, a heater, doors that locked and a hood that didn’t leak (much). It started every time and was a joy to drive. Small but nippy and I loved it.

In 1971, we drove the Sprite to Sydney on our honeymoon and came back in a proper family-type car, a Fiat 124 Sports Coupe. It was a beautiful-looking vehicle. Sleek, Italian styling, it looked fast even when parked. But within a year, that was sold and funded our first flight to London.

The first car we bought in the old country was a VW Beetle. Although it was probably past its best already, we drove it to Scotland and back, tootled down to Cornwall and Lands End, toured the Home Counties, slept in the back seat in a country lane near Stratford-on-Avon, but were forced to park it outside our flat in Shepherds Bush with its backside facing south in the often-vain hope that the engine would be warmed enough by the morning sun, otherwise it wouldn’t start until midday. I didn’t know the Germans would feel the cold so badly.

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The Beetle was disposed of and replaced with a Kombi. The musthave vehicle for the intrepid young Aussie abroad. Ours was a retired Dutch post office van. It had no side panel windows, and its amenities consisted of the front seat, steering wheel and an engine out the back.

We threw a mattress on the floor, drove down to Dover, crossed the Channel and headed to Rome.

The best part about the Dutch Kombi was that it came with Dutch plates. So we drove about in London for almost two years with dodgy registration until I was pulled over by the police, who enquired about the plates and how long I had been a resident in the UK, then firmly advised me to register it properly or else. The rozzer told me he would be checking up on me; that he would drive past our flat in a week’s time, and if the van was still bearing the Dutch rego I would be deported – or sent to the Scrubs, which wasn’t far from where we were living.

I was freelancing from home at that time and working in the front room.

After seven days, I watched as a police car came up the street, stopped at the parked Kombi, checked the new plates and drove away, satisfied.

Such was the success of the earlier cross-channel adventure, I availed myself of some plans for Kombi renovations, had some windows installed, purchased a handsaw, a little drill, and a few sheets of plywood and constructed our first mobile home.

The old Kombi took us to Greece, to Scandinavia, through France to Portugal, Spain and Italy (again) and onto North Africa, where it dropped a valve somewhere on the edge of the desert north of Marrakesh (we were on the hippie trail, after all). What followed were possibly the worst days of our young married lives. Somehow, we managed to locate a replacement motor (don’t ask, that is a long story for another time) and with the help of some young German travellers, fitted it while parked in the centre square of Casablanca. There is little Hollywood glamour in our memories of that North African trip during Ramadan. It must have been ‘the straw that broke the camel’s back’, if you will pardon the pun.

We decided to go home.

Once safely back in the land of Oz, we needed transport. I found a Fiat 125 for sale in Eaglehawk and couldn’t help myself; my Italian love affair was not over yet. It was pretty and just lovely to drive. At the same time,

we found an old EH Holden ute, which had been a paddock-basher on a chook farm in Maiden Gully. It became our workhorse and we virtually built our house with the aid of this reliable ‘wheelbarrow’.

Since then I have had a Commodore stationwagon (after the kids came along) and a Holden HJ ute, but then the Italians got to me again. I was seduced by a Lancia Beta Coupe. Another pretty Italian. Pretty, but rubbish. It had a broken back and gave me endless trouble. Where the Italians made reliable Fiats, they let the side down with the Lancia. That was it. No more Italians. We went French. A Pug. The most comfortable car I have ever driven, but it boiled every time I got stuck in traffic until one day, I blew it up coming over Big Hill one morning. ‘Merde! Sacré Bleu. C’est ça. Pas Plus!’. I turned Japanese. I have never been happier.

Today, I would tell my 18-year-old self to go Japanese. Go early. Go Taiwanese, Chinese, or Czech. You can’t get a new Holden ute anymore.

If you want something similar, you have to buy a Chevrolet from the General. Oh! The circle is not unbroken after all.

Postscript. I have lapsed again. I have something old, pretty and British under the covers at home. I can’t help myself.

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Carmel, Lauren, Geoff and Anita

Dianne and Penny

Jen and Erin

Reuben

Liya and Ken

Sylvie and Holly

DANCING ONTO THE PAGES A brand new children’s book captured the attention of readers in January.

Local author Lauren Mitchell and illustrator Geoff Hocking teamed up for Dragon Dance, celebrating the cherished Chinese dragons of Bendigo.

A special launch event for the colourful story was held during the Bendigo Library’s Chinese New Year festivities.

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Amber, Shelley and Kaylee

Em and Kitty

Chanel, Hannah, Bruce and Bryan

Jismole, Teyla and Paul

WELCOMING THE RABBIT The Lunar New Year was cause for major celebrations at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion.

Nick and Anne-Marie

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Zane, Neisha, Sarah, Krystal and Kenzie

Its week-long festival brought in the Year of the Rabbit with plenty of food, activities and performances, and in true Great Stupa style, everyone was welcome to join in the fun.

a leading role

Bendigo Senior Secondary College alumnus and Young Citizen of the Year Mitch Graham has the Borough in his blood.

By Danielle Snowdon and Jennie Mellberg - Photography by Leon Schoots While many 19-year-olds were thinking about jobs, TAFE, apprenticeships or uni, Mitch Graham was attending board meetings and hosting grant presentation evenings in his role as president of Empowering Eaglehawk.

continually doing my best for the enterprise.”

The enterprise – founded by passionate community members in 2006 – has raised over $1 million for the local community. Empowering Eaglehawk forms partnerships with regional businesses to get major projects off the ground and also provides funding grants to community groups that make a difference to local people.

“I was quite nervous about finishing Year 12,” he recalls. “While our cohort didn’t have the final year we wanted, BSSC taught me so much.

Mitch joined in his late teens and showed so much commitment, he is now in his third term as president.

His ongoing efforts to strengthen the Eaglehawk community, and the leadership he’s shown in working towards positive outcomes, were recognised at the start of the year with two prestigious awards – and a new title.

“To be named Young Citizen of the Year for both Bendigo and Eaglehawk came as a real shock to me,” Mitch says. “It’s a great honour and I feel very humbled by the recognition.”

For Mitch, it’s not about awards. Quite simply, he believes in the Borough.

“I don’t do things because I might win something,” he says. “I do things so the whole community can benefit.”

While Mitch may not think he has done anything particularly special, the now 21-year-old has dedicated a big part of his life to making the town he loves better for everyone – both through his volunteer work with the Bendigo Eaglehawk Badminton Association and distributing grants on behalf of Empowering Eaglehawk.

“My leadership role provides me with the opportunity to learn from others who also give so much to the community,” Mitch says. “I believe it’s an important part of leadership to evaluate myself to ensure I’m 56

Having graduated from Bendigo Senior Secondary College in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mitch reflects on his final year at the school with no regrets.

“I was encouraged to get involved with extracurricular activities, such as the Student Leadership Team and College Council. These experiences helped shape me into who I am today.”

Despite the rocky year that was 2020, Mitch graduated and is studying primary education at La Trobe University in Bendigo. He is now heading confidently towards his dream of becoming a teacher and inspiring the hopes and aspirations of a new generation of students, just like his teachers did for him along his journey.

“From a young age, I knew I wanted to become a primary school teacher,” Mitch says. “I was inspired by the way my teachers interacted with students, friends and family.

“They always had a smile, they were engaging and knew how to get the best out of us as individuals.”

Mitch hopes to take these characteristics into his own teaching career.

“I hope to be someone young people can look up to,” he says. “I want to encourage students to be community-minded and see the value of leadership.”

When asked what makes a great leader, Mitch lists determination and commitment as key attributes. His advice to other young people hoping to head into leadership is to simply ‘go for it’.

“You never know when the leadership skills you have uncovered during your time at school can be used in everyday life,” he says. “Never underestimate the power you have to be a leader.”

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Amelia, Trevor and Mitch

Angus, Madison, Megan and Zanda

Dakota, Matt and Sarah

Harry, Ken and Paul

Marcel, Skylah, Dave, Ryder and Davina

Mathew, Aston and Airlie

AUSTRALIA DAY BACK AT THE LAKE After a location change in 2021, the Bendigo Sandhurst Rotary Club’s annual Australia Day market returned to its home at Lake Weeroona.

The celebrations commenced with an official ceremony, before attendees happily explored the market stalls, watched the live entertainment, and satisfied their stomachs with a feed from the Rotary barbecue.

It’s big(ger)!

2200m2 of knick-knackery, bric-a-brac-ery, second hand curios, retro accoutrement and a soupçon of handmade finery.

+ now more aisles to get lost in.

Find what you’re not looking for.

OPEN 7 DAYS ~ 10AM-5PM Located at The Mill Castlemaine: 1-9 Walker Street Opposite the Botanical Gardens

Domenic and Heike

Euan and Ann

Dora, Elizabeth and Dale

Margarine, Khiara and Sherleen

FESTIVAL HITS THE RIGHT NOTE Some of the world’s finest classical musicians called Bendigo home for five days in February.

Mark and Ganor

Peter, Margaret and Julia

Showing off their talents at the fourth annual Bendigo Chamber Music Festival were many new and returning musicians, who joined forces to give fans magnificent and unique performances that may never be heard again.

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ABOVE: Russell Drysdale Moody’s Pub (1941) oil on plywood 50.9 x 61.4cm National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Purchased, 1942 (1147-4) © Courtesy Russell Drysdale Estate Photo: Garry Sommerfeld/NGV

identity by design From delicate gold rush jewellery to a melting Bubble O’Bill sculpture, artists in Australia have reflected upon national identity in myriad ways throughout our recent history.

By Emma Busowsky - Curator, Bendigo Art Gallery and Australiana: Designing a Nation Preceded by the long-standing artistic traditions of the First Peoples of Australia – the oldest continuing cultures in the world – newer Australians have looked to local materials and motifs in their creative expressions of place and identity.

Early Australian furniture-makers, for example, found that casuarina or she-oak was workable for this purpose, more so than eucalyptus. The Pembroke table, dated 1790s and in the National Gallery of Victoria’s collection, is an important example of this: it was made by a British cabinetmaker from what was reportedly the first specimen of wood taken from Kamay (Botany Bay) back to England.

Australiana: Designing a Nation is a major new exhibition that takes a look at what it means to be Australian through art and design, and identifies a distinct and continuing tradition for artists to explore notions of Australian identity, place and style.

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Rennie Ellis - At the Pub Brisbane 1982

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LEFT TOP: Tom Roberts Shearing the rams 1890 oil on canvas on composition board 122.4 × 183.3 cm National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Felton Bequest, 1932 (4654-3) Photo: Predrag Cancar/NGV

ABOVE: Tony Albert CLASH 2019 acrylic and found objects applied to plasticpolyester, powder-coated aluminium 120 x 550 cm Image courtesy of sullivan + strumpf Copyright Tony Albert/ Copyright Agency 2022

LEFT: Ken Done Sydney Sunday 1982 96 x 192 cm oil and acrylic on canvas Collection of the artist

ABOVE: Kenny Pittock Melted Bubble’O 2020 26cm x 25cm x 3.5cm synthetic polymer paint on ceramic Photo: Kenny Pittock

Spanning the visual and decorative arts as well as photography, illustration, furniture, jewellery, moving image and fashion, it comprises works by over 200 artists and designers.

The exhibition brings together beloved Australian masterpieces alongside lesser-known works to consider the visual language of Australiana over time, and the ways it celebrates – and interrogates – who we are.

Organised in partnership with the National Gallery of Victoria, the exhibition also offers a glimpse into the artworks and objects that the Governor General and the Prime Minister of Australia have on display in their residences, through special items borrowed from the Australiana Fund collection.

Australiana: Designing a Nation is a free exhibition that will run from March 18 to June 25, 2023, exclusively at Bendigo Art Gallery.

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MUSIC LIVENS UP PARK

Phoebe, Tegan, Chrissie, Lewis and Doug

Heather and Frank

Isaac, Amelia, Grace, Mae and Molly

Isla and Poppy

Kerrie, John and puppy Percy

Marley and Mark with dogs Wilma and Wally

February was a month of live music in Bendigo, thanks to the Summer in the Parks program.

Those gathered in Strathdale’s Crook Street Park enjoyed a relaxing start to a weekend, lounging around on the grass with family and friends while enjoying the tunes of the talented Taylor Sheridan.

l Th ID rm ifes e ge EAL ho tyle t-a F us , o wa OR e a ff- y, nd gri ru co d liv ral tta in ge g, liv ing

Photo: GettyImages

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Jordy, Ben and Spencer

Lincon and Christian

STUDENTS MAKE A SPLASH Mackenzie, James, Monique and Xavier

Mietta, Amy, Amelie and Oliver

The competition was fierce but fun at Girton Grammar School’s annual swimming carnival.

Remus, Connor, Julius, Massimo and Sam

Sarah, Toto, Greta and Maya

Hundreds of students proudly donned their house colours and cheered for their classmates as they took to the pool to vie for the coveted winner’s cup.

Ultimately, Jenkin House took the prize, with Millward House awarded the Spirit Cup.

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As your Federal Member of Parliament, my office and can provide a Please don’tof hesitate to get in touch with me anytime, either at my office wide range services. wide range services. on (03) 5443of9055 or by lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au Please don’t hesitate to email get inat touch with me anytime, either at my Please don’t hesitate to touch with me Please don’t hesitate to get getorin inby touch with me anytime, anytime, either either at at my my office office office on (03) 5443 9055 email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au on (03) 5443 9055 or by email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au on (03) 5443 9055 or by email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au

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redesigning a classic

By Beau Cook - Photography by Leon Schoots

The parma has been a staple on menus in Australia for generations, but by giving it a vegetarian makeover, more of today’s foodies can enjoy this beloved dish.

EGGPLANT PARMAS

Method:

Serves 4

1. Generously season both sides of eggplant rounds with salt and let sit for 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

2. Then in a large pan, heat 2 tbl. olive oil over medium heat. Cook eggplant in batches for around 5 minutes on each side or until caramelised well, and set aside.

• 2 large eggplants, cut into 2.5cm-thick rounds • 3 cups panko crumbs • 2 eggs, beaten • ¼ cup plain flour • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 700ml of passata • 1 tsp. chilli flakes (optional) • Handful of fresh basil leaves • Sea salt flakes • Olive oil • Parmesan cheese and cracked pepper to serve

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3. Meanwhile, in a small pot, heat 2 tbl. olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic and chilli for 2 minutes. Add passata and reduce heat to low, then gently simmer and season to taste if required.

4. Crumb the eggplant. Lightly dust it in flour, dredge through the beaten eggs, then place into the crumbs until coated all over. Set aside.

5. Heat 4 tbl. olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Shallow fry the eggplant in batches for 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

6. Set aside on absorbent paper towel and season with salt.

7. Place eggplant parmas onto a serving dish then spoon over the sauce and top with basil leaves, parmesan and cracked pepper. Serve with your favourite sides.

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Alex, Doug, Lyn, Lyn and Glenis

A DAZZLING DUET

Jobe, Paul, Skye, Tahya, Maree and Scott

Kim, Alli and Laurell

Rounding out Bendigo’s month of live music was duo Alli & Andrew.

They brought the Garden of the Future to life with their infectious tunes and high-energy performance, encouraging the audience to get up and dance. The show served as the final Summer in the Parks event for the season.

Maggie, Mary, Emily and Fiona

Pauline and Rob

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Alec, Audrey and Erin

Billy, Jackelyn and Lucy

FUNDS RAISED AT FUN RUN Brodie and Hannah

Dean and Jarrod

George and Marty

Michelle, Elsie, Kel and Emme

Rosalind Park provided a picturesque venue for runners to raise funds for the Bendigo Health Foundation.

There were many events of various lengths to compete in at the Bendigo Ford Fun Run, with registration fees and donations going to Bendigo Health’s new children’s outdoor rehabilitation playspace.

AUTUMN AT MUNARI WINES Enjoy an afternoon tasting elegant wines from inside the rustic Cellar Door or on the terrace overlooking the vines W INE TASTIN G | PIZZA | C O FFE E

Boasting a full range of wines, there is something for everyone 1129 Northern Highway, Ladys Pass

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pick your drop Autumn is a time to waver between the red, white and rosé, thanks to the best of Central Victorian conditions; warm days, cool evenings, and still plenty of holiday time to enjoy with friends and family at home, or at a vineyard near you. LAUREN MITCHELL writes.

Photography by Leon Schoots

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MUNARI WINES - NEXT CHAPTER 2021 SANGIOVESE

VIN DU VAN ESTATE - 2021 SHIRAZ

This wine is an exciting release for the Munari family at Ladys Pass, near Heathcote, for it’s the first vintage after four years of work since the vineyard grafted its Merlot and Malbec blocks to Sangiovese. We’re told: “This wine is bright and aromatic and especially fruit-driven.

It has aromas of apple, blackcurrant and strawberries. It is medium-bodied, with a lovely fine, elegant tannin structure.”

Linger awhile in Mandurang at the cellar door and bistro of Vin Du Van Estate. Here you’ll find a classy, slightly French-provincial dining room overlooking the vineyard, and a perfect place to show off the region to visitors this Easter.

We’re keeping our bottle capped for just a little while longer while we wait for the cool autumn weather and the promise of roast pork.

Enjoy lunch then take home a bottle of the 2021 Shiraz, which is a little lighter than you may expect from a Bendigo red. Affectionately nicknamed ‘Purple Rain’ for its plum hue when held to the light, the wine went into brand new French Oak barrels, and is developing that lovely soft, peppery finish that Bendigo Shiraz is known for.

SANDHURST RIDGE WINERY - 2017 CABERNET SAUVIGNON Back in 2017, the Greblo brothers of Sandhurst Ridge in Marong recommended cellaring their Cab Sav for around five years. Well, hello 2023, and the (almost) optimal time for a glass of this big, bold wine.

Rich, red and intense, it’s one to share over robust conversation in the kitchen with fellow deep and questioning souls. Some dark ‘90s grunge on Spotify didn’t go astray while sacrilegiously splashing just a little into the bolognaise.

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TURNERS CROSSING - 2019 VIOGNIER

MANDURANG VALLEY WINES - 2022 GRENACHE BRUT ROSÉ

The good folk at Turners Crossing tell us that Viognier is a relatively unknown grape variety, so even more surprising to find it growing at Serpentine, on the banks of the beautiful Loddon River.

Toast to the wilting days of warmth with this gorgeous wine from our friends, the Vine family in Mandurang. The fun and fruity, pink-toned wine promises hints of rosewater and Turkish delight on the nose and crisp acidity on the palate.

Time under the Serp summer sun, then in a range of vats and oak barrels, has produced a lively wine of poise and length, with the sweet aromas of stone fruits. In Strathdale, we enjoyed it over two weekday meals; a Thai pork salad with vermicelli noodles and then a rich chicken stroganoff with pasta. The light and zesty wine beautifully cut through the rich flavours. It’s now well known in our house.

It’s easy on the eye, and even easier to drink, being bright and slightly sweet, with a refreshingly dry finish. Definitely one to consider for pairing with the Easter charcuterie board.

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Mark and Bec

Lockdowns and a heavy downpour couldn’t stop this couple from having the relaxed wedding day of their dreams.

Photography by Ildiko Photography As the COVID-19 pandemic was changing lives all around the world in early 2020, Mark and Bec’s life together in Bendigo was just getting started. On their first date, they discussed visiting the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion and the Rosalind Park Poppet Head, both of which Mark had never been to. Before they had a chance to explore these places, the country was in lockdown.

“As bad as it was, lockdown was a great way to work out if you’re compatible very quickly in a new relationship!” Bec says.

It soon became clear to Mark and Bec that they were very compatible, with Mark announcing that he had started looking at rings. He even jokingly proposed a few times. But in July 2020, Mark proposed for real.

In between lockdowns for regional Victoria, the pair took advantage of some winter sunshine and finally visited the poppet head. After climbing the stairs, Mark quickly dropped to one knee, keen to propose while they had the tower to themselves. Bec’s answer was immediate.

“I replied ‘of course I will’, and was terrified that with the shaking, one of us would drop this gorgeous ring off the top level of the poppet 74

head,” Bec says.

Thankfully the ring stayed firmly on Bec’s finger, and they rushed to tell their loved ones the good news, with Mark’s family in Melbourne finding out over FaceTime due to lockdown.

Many more lockdowns later, Mark and Bec’s big day finally arrived on September 17, 2022. The couple had planned everything perfectly, with an emphasis on keeping things local as much as possible. The wedding took place at Harcourt Valley Winery; the cake was made by a family friend at Country Cakes; and Bec stunned in an Atelier Wu dress from Fifi&Edga Bridal.

The one thing that wasn’t planned was the torrential downpour the previous day, forcing the ceremony to be moved inside the barn in case the rain continued. Luckily, the sun came out just in time for a beautiful photoshoot with Ildiko Photography.

Besides a few guests and vendors getting bogged from the rain and some pre-ceremony butterflies for Bec, the rest of the day ran smoothly. The butterflies didn’t last long, however.

“As soon as I saw Mark from behind the wine barrels before Dad and I walked down the aisle, I felt calm,” she says. “Everyone that we love was there with us, and we were about to have the best day of our lives.”

Even loved ones who had sadly passed were there in a way. With only one grandparent alive to attend, Bec surprised Mark and their parents by displaying wedding photographs of their late grandparents at the reception.

Bec also had a piece of each of her grandmothers with her at all times.

Nana’s necklace was worn as a bracelet, and Grammy’s pearl necklace and wedding headpiece were perfect accessories for the special day.

Every detail of the wedding – from the jewellery to the entertainment – had meaning to Mark and Bec. Josh DeAraugo played their favourite music; dinner included their favourite foods (pizza and tacos); and 99 Luft Events provided fun lawn games for the reception. As a basketball coach, a shooting game was one of Mark’s must-haves.

“We wanted a relaxed reception, no sit-down set menu dinner or overly structured schedule,” Bec says. “The day was about doing things that we love, surrounded by people that we love.”

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RACE FOR SCHOOLS

Rachel, Bonnie, Jo, Mel and Whitney

Cameron and Poppy

Chris, Ivy, Scarlett and Taralee

Kingston, Jimmy and Polly

Lahni, Lexi, Abby, Zahli and Meg

Mia and Madeline

Horses, history and schools all united once again as the Marong Cup returned for another year.

It wasn’t just a horse race though – the event also served as a fundraiser for Bendigo’s Catholic primary schools.

There was plenty of action on and off the track, with the rides and activities popular among students from the eight schools.

TURNER S CROS S I N G From the banks of the Loddon River, Turners Crossing has been producing wines of outstanding quality that speak of a sense of place and provenance.

Visit our website below to purchase our full range of premium wines turnerscrossing.com.au

Ashton and Harry

Curtis, Reuben and Mason

Margot and Casey

Cooper, Izak and Levi

Debra and Brae

Ollie, Marcus and Thomas

COMMUNITY POOL CELEBRATES The “beating heart” of Golden Square marked 10 successful years of community management with a massive pool party.

Over 800 people converged on the Golden Square Pool to commemorate the anniversary with a swim, live music, and food trucks. The facility has been run by volunteers since it was saved from closure in 2013.

6 Lewis Drive, Castlemaine | Ph: 0435 500 112 | Open: Fri 8 - 5 & Sat 9 - 2 |

PositionedPositioned in a quiet bushland in a quietsetting, bushlanddiscover setting,a discover place of a place of tree-lined tree-lined boulevardsboulevards and nativeand floranative and fauna, flora and where fauna, majestic where majestic parks meetparks with meet thriving withwetlands, thriving and wetlands, all areand justalla stone's are justthrow a stone's throw from everyfrom home. every Whether home.you Whether are looking you are forlooking a largefor home a large site home site for luxury for family luxury living family or a living low-maintenance or a low-maintenance allotment, allotment, Viewpoint Viewpoint has been designed has beentodesigned cater fortoyour caterlifestyle. for your lifestyle.

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be inspired

With its stylish finish and grand features, this exceptional outdoor area perfectly encapsulates what can be achieved when the best of local businesses come together.

By Sue Turpie - Photography by Leon Schoots

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A vast block of land and a world of possibilities lay in front of one Bendigo family when they set out on a journey to create their dream property, complete with captivating outdoor space.

For Todd and Kate Newman, it was an exciting opportunity to establish a private oasis their family could enjoy for years to come.

And so, they chose to work with Simon Rosa Landscaping and Evolution Pools Bendigo to realise their dream.

“We really relied on the expertise of Simon Rosa and Evolution Pools and their guidance to help us make decisions around the spaces,” Kate says. The L-shaped design of the home perfectly envelopes the stunning pool and outdoor entertainment space, next to which is the extensive lawn and surrounding garden beds and trees.

While the design team had to accommodate the block size of approximately 4000 square metres and design of the home, there were other needs to consider.

“Our main concern was the lack of time Todd and I have outside of a busy business, four kids and our community commitments,” Kate says. “The garden had to be low maintenance, but still look amazing, and the pool had to be easy to manage as well. Todd and I aren’t green thumbs so we needed plants that would survive our lack of gardening knowledge and an easy watering system so everything could survive even when we are not home.”

Simon Rosa explains the large area was appealing as it offered room to create larger-than-average elements that would complement the building.

The pool and garden sit in perfect harmony next to the modern building, allowing the clean lines and quality finish to shine. While the details are aesthetically pleasing to adults, the children’s needs were taken care of with large play areas such as the basketball court and open yard.

“The pool area can be seen from all aspects of the house, which makes it an appealing feature, so a lot of thought went into that,” he says. “The complete landscaping is low maintenance, including the front yard, and then the rear yard is an overwhelming kid-friendly area for a large family that they can enjoy for a long time.”

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Evolution Pools Bendigo co-director Kurt Ross understood the need to incorporate a pool that would fit the overall look and needs of the property.

“The house, on nearly all aspects, faces out to the pool, so it was a fairly big piece of the puzzle,” Kurt explains.

The Torino pool measures 11 metres long and 4.5 metres wide and is the largest fibreglass pool available in their range. Its installation meant Evolution Pools were involved early in the build, as the plumbing had to run underneath the house, while construction of the pool started once the house was at lock-up stage.

“In some circumstances such as new home builds, you want that collaborative approach,” Kurt says. “It’s good to have a conversation about the pool when the house is being constructed so things such as putting equipment in a functional location can be accounted for.”

The pool boasts a mechanical heat pump that keeps the water at a constant temperature from October through to April, and is fully automated, controlled via a smartphone. It also features a Badu jet system for stationary swimming.

After enjoying their outdoor area for more than 12 months, the family can sit back and reflect on the process and design.

“We have so many favourite features,” says Kate. “The pool is stunning at night when it’s all lit up with whatever colour takes your fancy. The garden either side of our sunken lounge gives you a feeling of sitting within a garden and the lighting at night adds another element to the feel of the home.

“The basketball court allows the kids to stay active, the fire pit is for a cold winter’s night, while the garden spaces all tell a different story, and the grassed area is for footy during the winter and cricket during the summer. The outside spaces have exceeded our expectations. It suits the way we live perfectly.

“Simon Rosa’s crew and the Evolution Pools team were exceptional tradespeople, communicators and businesses to work with. We are so grateful to have worked with them throughout the build so we could enjoy our spaces on completion of the home.”

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In 2022, Eplus Architecture hosted a pop-up venue – as part of the final Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival. While we’re sad to see the festival wrap up, we’re thrilled to have been part of such a wonderful community-wide event. And we’ll continue to look for ways to activate spaces and bring people together.

BEAUTIFUL LIVING SPACES W

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EPLUS ARCHITECTURE 111 MOLLISON STREET BENDIGO, VICTORIA. 3550

SIMONROSAL ANDSCAPING.COM.AU

PH (03) 5443 0055 INFO@EPLUSARCHITECTURE.COM.AU

EPLUSARCHITECTURE.COM.AU

FOLLOW OUR LATEST PROJECTS

smooth sailing A not-for-profit program run by volunteers at Lake Weeroona is helping local people with disabilities learn the ropes of a water sport that offers them a welcome sense of freedom.

By Raelee Tuckerman - Photography by AJ Taylor It took Alan Hoare seven decades and a life-changing illness to discover his love of sailing.

Before he suffered a staph infection 10 years ago that left him in a wheelchair with spinal injuries, Alan was involved in equestrian sports and swing dancing. While he now has some limited mobility, those treasured activities are no longer viable for the man who lives by the motto “use it or lose it”.

to come and try Sailability two years ago and I really enjoyed it.”

Participants accompany trained volunteers from the local sailing clubs in small, stable boats on the safe, calm water of Lake Weeroona. Some become proficient enough to go it alone.

Enter Sailability Bendigo, a program overseen by regional sports assembly Sports Focus, in partnership with the Bendigo Yacht Club and Cairn Curran Sailing Club.

Alan says: “It was the first time I’d experienced the intricacies of yachting – sensing the breeze, learning the little tell-tales on the sail, watching how it behaves so you know which way the wind is blowing and can align and tension the sail. Usually there’s an experienced sailor in the boat with you, but eventually I got to the stage where I could sail it on my own.

“Sports Focus aims to get people with mobility difficulties and other disabilities out doing activities, which adds a lot of quality to our lives,” says Alan, 72. “I’m in a spinal injury group called Spire. We were invited

“Mind you, I’ve been bogged and caught up on the lane ropes many times so my skill level is not necessarily great, but I get out there and have a fantastic time.”

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So much so that Alan joined the Bendigo Yacht Club as a member and now also volunteers on Sailability days, sharing his new-found knowledge with other participants.

“It’s very rewarding, because they are the greatest bunch of characters you could ever meet and we have some hilarious conversations out in the boat – I’ve had nothing but fun with everyone.”

Sailability is a worldwide program offered in about 20 countries, with more than 70 branches across Australia. It’s been running in Bendigo for 20 years.

Local project co-ordinator Jasmine Noske, from Sports Focus, says the program caters for everyone.

“We offer two different experiences – people can use it as an opportunity to learn how to sail, or they can sit back and enjoy getting out on the water.

“It’s so flexible we can make it work for anyone, regardless of ability.

A lot of people find it very relaxing; some hang their arm over the side and play with the water or even fall asleep in the boat.

“We have participants with intellectual disabilities, others in wheelchairs and for them it can be one of the few times they are out of their chairs. We have a hoist to lift them out and safely assist them into a boat. We also have a chin pad, giving capability for people to steer the boat with their chin.”

Other special equipment includes a portable non-slip pontoon with guide rails and fittings for the mobility hoist, and the four 2.3m accessible dinghies, weighted for safety so they can’t capsize (one single-sailor vessel and three co-sailor boats that hold both participant and volunteer).

“It’s basically a bathtub with a sail on it,” laughs Alan. “They’re simple to operate – one rope you pull to tension the sail and one lever to turn left or right.

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“There’s a rubber ducky support boat that can help you out and tow you back if you get into trouble, and the freedom of being out on your own is terrific. For a little boat, it can scoot along.”

Each Sailability Bendigo session attracts up to 20 participants, some from local disability service groups – Scope, Lifely, Distinctive Options, Kazz & Co, Everyday Independence – and others who attend independently. Their experience is tailored to meet individual needs.

“It’s an opportunity to get out and try an activity they may not have tried before, an experience they might otherwise not have – everyone has a lot of fun, especially when the weather is nice.”

At least 13 volunteers are needed to assist on the day and, while the two sailing clubs provide most of the expertise, Jasmine says no sailing experience is needed and extra helpers are always welcome.

“We have lots of on-shore roles as well and we are always in need of more hands on deck.”

For more details about Sailability sessions, phone Sports Focus on 5442 3101.

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first-hand

experience

By Raelee Tuckerman - Photography by AJ Taylor

It’s one of Europe’s most popular team sports, though barely known in Australia – now Bendigo has its own handball club thanks to teenage twins who’ve gone from newbies to national representatives.

Brothers Macaulay and Riley Senior were sitting home watching TV in January 2019 when they saw a world championship game of handball between Croatia and Spain listed on the programming.

Little did they know that less than four years later, they would step onto an international handball court wearing green and gold, proudly making their debut for Australia.

“I’d heard of handball but didn’t really know what it was,” says Macaulay. “So, we watched that game on TV and thought it was pretty cool and looked like a lot of fun. A year later, I found out there were teams in Melbourne and tried to join one but the website contact sheet wasn’t working so I didn’t follow it up.”

There was an unsuccessful attempt to get handball added to the list of official clubs at Marist College, where the boys attended school, before they took things into their own hands.

“In the July school holidays of 2021, we decided to ask our friends if they wanted to play handball, organise our own training sessions and start our own club – and it worked,” says Macaulay. “We contacted mates from our school and others and said, ‘hey, do you want to play a sport you’ve probably never heard of?’ and they said, ‘sure’. There were six of us at our first training session on August 1 that year and we now have nine regulars in total.”

Handball is a fast-paced, seven-a-side sport that combines the skills and rules of soccer, basketball, netball and water polo. The aim is to throw a ball into nets at either end of the court, with three footsteps and three seconds allowed before the ball must be bounced. Goals are scored from outside a six-metre zone that only the goalie is allowed inside.

The local club’s men’s team is known as the Maiden Gully Mavericks after a poll of players to decide upon a nickname was almost unanimous. “It was when the movie Top Gun Maverick was coming out and we all thought, yeah we’ve got to go with that one,” laughs Riley.

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Photograph by Jun Tanlayco

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The Mavericks played their first matches last May, travelling to Parkville for some ‘friendlies’ against metro club St Kilda and UniSA from Adelaide. To boost their numbers, some of the state’s most experienced handball exponents filled in for them and provided tips throughout the games.

“We had a New Zealand national team player, an ex-Hungarian national goalkeeper, an ex-Australian representative and a really good French player – very elite guys,” says Macaulay. “It was really good,” adds Riley, “because we were all still pretty green to the sport so if we stuffed up, they would run over and tell us what we should do next time.”

St Kilda has since visited Bendigo for coaching clinics and scratch matches, with more in the pipeworks. The Mavericks are mostly aged 18-20, so are not yet ready to compete in the Handball Victoria men’s league but hope to help Victoria field a junior side in the national championships. They are also looking for more players and would love to expand to include a women’s team if they can muster the numbers.

The 18-year-old twins from Yarraberb, near Bridgewater, say now is the perfect time to take up handball – as host of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, Australia is an automatic qualifier. The only other time we contested Olympic handball was in Sydney in 2000.

“All the guys in the current Australian team are saying now is the time,” says Riley. “They want us to get ready now so we can have 10 years of solid preparation ahead of 2032, when we’ll be in our prime.”

If recent achievements are any indication, the boys are on track.

Despite only playing their first competitive game in May, they were selected to represent Australia at the International Handball Federation Oceania Trophy in December – Macaulay in the under-20 team and Riley in the under-18s.

“It was quite ridiculous how quickly it all happened,” explains Macaulay. “We went to Melbourne in late November to watch the national championships and I was told by the Handball Victoria president that national youth coach Eoin Murray would be there. He said a lot of the guys in the youth national team were playing at the tournament and asked if we’d like to train with them. It wasn’t really meant to be a try out, but if we were any good there was a chance we could get in the under-18 team.”

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Just as the twins headed off to Apollo Bay to celebrate schoolies, they received an email congratulating them on their national selection. Two days after their return, they flew to Sydney for a training camp and a week later were off to the Cook Islands for the Oceania tournament.

“It was pretty overwhelming,” says Riley. “They all knew each other, and here were two Victorian guys just walking in, dumping our bags, putting on training bibs and getting into it straight away.”

The boys also played some lead-up practice matches in Sydney, drawing with University of Technology Sydney women and getting well beaten but not disgraced against Australia’s strongest, most successful handball club, Sydney Uni men.

“It was very exciting and we gelled well with the team and we were ready to go,” says Macaulay. “Then the coach came and took me away from the group and I thought I was in trouble, but it wasn’t that at all. I’m left-handed and play the right wing position, where righthanders have a lot of trouble shooting goals from. Our under-18s team had three left-handers and the under-20 team had none, so Eoin pulled me aside two days before we left for the Cook Islands and asked if I’d play in the under-20s. It was ludicrous. We went in as development players, first time in the squad, and now I’m on the under-20s team whose aim was to win the whole tournament.” And win they did!

In 2023, the twins hope to play some matches with St Kilda and develop the Maiden Gully Mavericks to debut at the annual club championships. They’re also aiming to make Victoria’s open-age squad.

Macaulay says they have received amazing support from St Kilda and the wider handball community. “When we first started, I contacted one of the guys at St Kilda to ask where to get balls from.

You can’t just walk into Rebel Sport and buy handballs! He gave us seven old balls and they gave us better ones when they came here.

The generosity has been incredible – they are volunteers just trying to help us and help build the profile of the sport.”

The Maiden Gully Handball Club trains on Sundays at the Bendigo Badminton and Table Tennis Complex in Eaglehawk, from noon-2pm.

Newcomers are welcome – contact Macaulay Senior on 0421 151 961 or message the club via Facebook.

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Photograph by Jun Tanlayco

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Principals Narelle and Rob Waller and co Director Tim Noonan are excited to announce their long established local agency, Waller Realty, has now partnered with Belle Property’s national real estate network.

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