Coast magazine autumn 2016 issuu

coastal

living

at

its

5.95

best

$ a

ut

in this issue

A SL IC E O F LI FE o art ed int

The everyday transform

H LOV E FR O M SY R IA , W IT affair A 30-year love

D R AW IN G ST R E N GT H Illustrating her future Art & culture Local shopping Where to eat

u m n 2 0 16

Superbly located only 800 metres from the main street of Cowes and even closer to the beach, Seagrove is Phillip Island’s most sought after environmentally-sustainable address.

Master-planned by award-winning designers, Seagrove features over eight acres of landscaped parks, wetland habitat, underground services, including gas and broadband, rich birdlife and regionally significant eucalypt woodland.

Select from a range of premium home sites including acre lots with mature trees and land with water views. Titles are available now so you can start building your dream home straight away.

coast 2

“sets a new benchmark for sustainable

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Urban Development Institute of Australia Awards for Excellence

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www.seagrove.com.au coast 3

Vasy Petros

Twilight Inlet Venus Bay – detail Collage. 60 x 30 cm

Deborah Watson

Tracey Minster Pendant Fine silver applique, oxidised. 4.5 cm diameter

Phil Henshall

Black Pagoda Glass Platter. 36 cm diameter

Sandbank – detail Oil on canvas. 123 x 123 cm

Ken Griffiths

Kaye Hatton

Supermarket Mixed media on linen on board. 180 x 120 cm

Burl Platter Carved red gum. 60 x 50 x 5 cm

www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au | Phone: 03 5672 1415 | artspacenquiries@gmail.com Community Gallery | Supporting Regional Artists | Regular Exhibitions

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Sally Everett

Bob Hickman

Quechquemitl (Mexican neck piece) Hand painted and woven. 135 x 35 cm

No Match for Brett – detail Acrylic on Canvas. 75 x 50 cm

Sue Acheson

ZULU (Heather Towns)

The Artists Bare Their Souls Wood fired porcelain 80 x 11 x 11 cm

Cyber Gossip – detail Oil on Canvas. 45.5 x 45.5 cm

Diana Edwards

Maree Gullock

Afternoon Glow Phillip Island Watercolour on Arches 300gsm. 60 x 52 cm

Abalone Linocut printed on fabriano paper. 75 x 57 cm

ArtSpace W o n t h a g g i

7 McBride Avenue,Wonthaggi.

Open Thursday to Monday, 10.00am to 4.00pm or by appointment 0439 699 241

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from the editor

When David Bowie died in January this year, it sparked an incredible outpouring of grief from fans across the world and threw a spotlight on his creative legacy.

Bowie provided the soundtrack of my teenage years, but I think it was his dedication to creating art that set him apart. He was intensely involved in every aspect of the creative process … from the music he recorded, through to his stage costumes, his album artwork, and even his hair colour. His restless creativity entranced, inspired and confounded people for more than forty years.

This is what great art does. It lifts us up. It inspires us.

It confuses, challenges and illuminates. Each year, we dedicate an edition of Coast to exploring the artists who live all around us … musicians, painters, jewellers, sculptors and designers. And every year we’re amazed at how many talented, passionate people are out there, creating incredible art.

The death of an artist you love makes you realise just how important art is in all our lives.

This autumn, why not make time to visit the local galleries and go to some performances and exhibitions? Viewing the world through the lens provided by a creative artist makes us all the richer.

the coast team publisher Maria Reed managing editor Eleanor McKay words Katie Cincotta, Eleanor McKay, Sally O’Neill, Anne Roussac-Hoyne, Simone Short photography Warren Reed coast photography - 0414 753 739 design Staffan Hakansson print manager Nigel Quirk advertising Robyn Kemp 0432 273 107 ads@coastmagazine.net

Cheers, Eleanor

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Phillip Island to the Prom Coast Magazine © published

by Coast Media P/L. ISSN 1833-3648. The publisher is not responsible or liable for any omissions or human error in Phillip Island to the Prom Coast Magazine.

Material in this publication cannot be published or reproduced without the publishers written consent.

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contents

SheDDing my Skin 34 Dramatic weight loss and an emerging career in comedy have transformed Phillip Lee Curtis physically, mentally and emotionally.

From SyriA, with love 18 A 30-year love affair with Syria brought work, friendship and ultimately family to Fiona Hill. With the country ravaged by war, Fiona is working to have her Syrian family join her in Australia.

home iS where the Art iS 41 Join us as we explore some of the exciting art, music and craft being created on the coast.

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wAve leSS trAvelleD 66

loCAlly DoeS it 71

For coast surfer Graeme Burgan, it’s not about performance, but all about going into the waves.

From food to fashion, tools to jewels, garden supplies to groceries, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to our local shops.

contents

contents

A SliCe oF liFe 44 From her studio in the dunes at Tarwin Lower, artist Mandy Gunn transforms everyday items and recycled material into stunning artworks.

people 11

15 Minutes of Fame

14

2 Coast People

62

The sound of Silence

Dean Luke

Chevy Long and Colleen Cassar

The Weight of Silence

106

Artist Profile

128

Young & inspired

Benjamin Baillie

Zoe Johnson

places 102

5 things we love about …

Fish Creek

regulArS 12

Coast Life

16

Latest products

22

Events Calendar

92

Where to eat

94

Dine out – Harry’s on the Esplanade

98

What’s cooking

112 Coast Style – Factory Seven 116 Coast Style – Black, white and wood 126 Coast Directory & Stockists

DrAwing Strength 26

127 A good read

Growing up on Phillip Island, Sharnee Taylor followed her love of drawing to create an exciting career that is opening doors across the fashion world and the globe.

130 Where Am I

129 Fitness

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fif teen

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Self-described rock and roll fanatic Dean Luke has made a career out of sharing his love and knowledge of music with a whole new generation of guitarists. words as told to eleanor mckay photo warren reed

Growing up I wanted to be a painter, and then at one point I wanted to be an actor, then an author. I was always into music, but I never really thought I’d be a musician. I thought maybe I’d be a painter who did album covers.

I used to listen to my older brother play, and he taught me my first couple of chords. Eventually I got my own acoustic guitar, because my brother was sick of me hogging his. I had lessons in high school for about a year, but the rest of it I worked out on my own, by reading books and watching guitar players.

When I was in my early teens, Mum came home with a remastered Led Zeppelin double CD. I put on the first CD and this riff started blasting out of the speakers. I literally froze. I couldn’t believe it. Everything about it was just so raw and edgy and powerful and huge, and I’d never heard anything like it. Mum told me the guitarist was Jimmy Page and he was considered possibly the most important guitarist in rock history. From then I was obsessed to the point of lunacy with Led Zeppelin and Jimmy Page.

I was still basking in the high that only Led Zeppelin can provide when my brother called me into his room and said, ‘Hey, listen to this track’. It was Jimi Hendrix – “Voodoo Child”.

To this day, when that riff comes in, it makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Between Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix, you’ve basically got the blueprint for rock guitar.

I’ve always liked teaching. Ever since I started playing, I’ve had friends who wanted to learn whatever I was doing, and I would show them. I think it’s part of who I am. I love being absorbed in music all day every day, and being able to work for myself is liberating. I read lots of music-teaching books… when I do something, it’s important to me to do it right.

I read stuff on how to communicate properly and how the brain learns … how to cut things into chunks that are easy to learn and decipher.

My youngest student is six and I think my oldest is around 76.

The best part of my job is helping people. I adore watching them fall in love with music. I don’t think you’re ever too old to learn to play. It’s just about perseverance. People often ask me what guitar they should start with. I always tell them the best guitar to begin on is one that inspires you … one that makes you want to play.

I think everyone should follow their happiness, find the things they love and that they’re good at … and then make a career out of whatever that might be.

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coast life

pump up the jam Every delicious, mouth-watering jar of Phillip Island Fine Food is packed with over 50 years of food knowledge. Mary and Nicha have joined forces to create an amazing range of jam, marmalade, chutney, relish and sauce. You can find them at the local craft markets, select cafes and on Facebook.

Desperately seeking …

Thirty years ago, Swedish photographer Hakan Ludwigson travelled to outback Australia and captured the essence of people living and working on the Territory’s cattle stations. His incredible images have just been published in a book “Balls and Bulldust” and now Hakan is trying to track down the people he photographed. If you recognise anyone featured in the book, he’d love to hear from you. Find out more at www.ballsandbulldust.com

Channelling Audrey Phillip Island World Vision Club is holding a special fundraising screening of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” at Silverwater Resort on 8 April. Time to dust off the little black dress and sling on some pearls for a fabulous cause. There’s champagne and prizes for the best Audrey outfit. Tickets are just $20 and available from Chatters on Cowes – 5952 1211 or contact Nance – 5956 9176 or email ngooderham@hotmail.com.

Donor love In our autumn edition last year, Coast shared the incredible love story of Scott Andersen, Aminah Hart and the IVF baby that brought them together.

Now it’s time for Aminah’s version.

Her memoir – “How I Met Your Father” is on sale this month. And … big congratulations to Scott and Aminah who tied the knot in December.

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we’ve got the blues

war on waste Gippsland’s Tammy Logan has taken up the challenge to change the world by cleaning up her corner of it! If you’re looking for inspiration on how you can reduce waste, get plastic out of your life and live sustainably, then Tammy is your guru. www.gippslandunwrapped.com

This Easter BluesFest in Byron Bay is an embarrassment of riches. We swear, there’s something for everyone: Hip hop superstar Kendrick Lamar; indie darlings The National; legends Brian Wilson and Tom Jones; alt country icons Steve Earle and Jeff Tweedy.

Many of the BluesFest artists are doing sideshows in Melbourne – some of them in our own backyard. www.bluesfest.com.au

An D l wi

D won

Der

Ful

and clarity. Visit his Kilcunda gallery or his

cape photography of Tony Middleton. In

website www.tonymiddletonphotography.com. Wildcoast Images Gallery showcases the inspiring lands

spired by the land, sea and skies above Gippsland, Tony captures the world around him with exquisite detail

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2

two coast people

Mother and son Colleen Cassar and Chevy Long are living proof that ‘zest for life’ is in the genes. This dynamic duo are each following their hearts across continents: Chevy as one half of Melbourne based DJ/production duo ‘Indian Summer’ and Colleen leading ladies across Morocco with her business ‘Roam Like Queens’. Amidst the whirlwind of their lives, they love nothing more than catching up for some quality time…

Chevy: My earliest memory of Mum is of us hanging out in the backyard on a summer’s day, and there have been a bunch of memorable moments since then. She is always at the top of her game when she’s trying to embarrass me. When I was about 14, she went to Morocco for a month. A few days before she got back, I went to a friend’s house party, downed the three light beers I’d stolen from Dad, and woke up with four or five golfballsized hickies on my neck. When Mum came through the gates at the airport a few days later, she walked straight up to me, and before saying a word, put a pack of condoms and a bottle of concealing make-up in my hands. She thought it was hilarious.

I’ve taken to describing our relationship when I was growing up as the ‘Benjamin Button relationship’. We didn’t get along for the first six to eight years of my life. I was a stubborn creature then and didn’t respond well to authority figures. But now she’s one of my best friends. It’s funny how that stuff works … I’ve since been told that I was ‘acting out’– a few years earlier than expected – what is usually attributed to teen angst and rebellion. I was more or less an angel of a teenager, so maybe that was the silver lining …?

Apart from the ten-speed bike she got me for Christmas when I was seven, the greatest gift she has given me has been showing me how to live a life guided by love and passion. The older I get, the more I discover how easy it is to succumb to fear in your life.

Mum isn’t the type of person to put up with a boring life, and I think that’s a pretty awesome example to set.

words as told to sally o’neill photos supplied

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I now live my life by the philosophy that ‘some day’ is a disease that will see you take your dreams to the grave. If something’s important to you, do it now and correct your course along the way. And if you’re having trouble bringing yourself happiness, bring it to someone else and yours will come in turn. Investing in your fears isn’t especially smart, and it’s really pretty boring. So screw it and live an exciting life!

Over the past year or so I’ve been putting a lot of time into writing and producing music with my mate Gabe. Right now I’m based out of Byron Bay. I moved there on a bit of a whim mid-last year and the whole process has encouraged a lot of positive, disruptive change. It’s great!

I don’t think I could sum Colleen up in one word … perhaps ‘Super-kook-soul-goddess’. When we’re together there is always guaranteed to be a lot of noise! I’m looking forward to hanging out and having a laugh in Morocco together some day soon.

Colleen: Meeting Chevy on the day he was born is a treasured moment. It was a great honour, and our relationship only gets better. Watching him grow into a kind and decent human being is the greatest gift for me.

One of my favourite memories was the day that four-year-old Chevy announced to me with all seriousness: “Mama … did you know that bees make honey and flies make vegemite?”

t wo

coast

He was a quiet, gentle child who loved creative play and building forts, cubbies and tree houses. John and I, as parents, provided lots of great mediums for him to learn through, and were never really concerned about the mess generated by his endeavours.

Once he and his friend spent hours wrapping John’s car in telephone wire – it was a fantastic sculpture.

I have always encouraged Chevy to be independent, mindful, discerning and responsible for his actions and words. I am a great believer in gut instinct and following one’s heart, and this has really paid off now as I see him doing what he loves.

people

bunch of adventurous women. My philosophy is to design a life that makes you happy. Take delight in all you do – being alive is a blessing. Smile, love, smile, love, smile!

If I could sum Chevy up in one word, it would it be ‘fun’.

When we’re together, I enjoy the intoxicatingly delicious mother-son connection that we have. He doesn’t know this, but I look forward to quietly sitting with him and watching his first child …

Aside from the early challenges of dealing with a very selfassured toddler, life with Chevy has been smooth sailing.

Whenever life has dealt us its normal blows along the way, we opt for honesty, discussion, support, love and friendship.

Chevy practises mindfulness, and I am so proud to witness his ‘gratitude writing’ every morning. It’s a beautiful way to begin each day. Chevy teaches me the beauty of simplicity, and often repeats my words to him as he grew up – ‘Listen to your heart’– whenever I feel I’m at a crossroad in my life. And he has introduced me to some great music!

These days I live between Morocco and Melbourne and manage to dodge winter beautifully – only summer and spring for me!

I live in a small seaside city called Essaouira on the northwest coast of Africa, and still love the thrill of a great road trip with a

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in the picture Frames, local prints and artwork Framed Inverloch

Gotta get me one of these latest news and products from your Coast retailers

get sporty Toyota 86 Wonthaggi Toyota

Dessert delight Chocolate Mars Cake Mario’s at San Remo, $12

coast 16

happy feet Homey Ped – Krista San Remo Pharmacy RRP $139.95

raise your glass Cocktail delights Silverwater Resort, $18

lettuce help you Hydroponic lettuce IGA San Remo $2.50

Stylin’ up Elk clothing and accessories Petite Collections

Fashion friendly VIP local loyalty card Skunkwear

wake up and smell the freshly roasted coffee BEANd $8.50 (ground 200g) $35 (whole beans 1kg)

there she blows Winter Whale Cruise Wildlife Coast Cruises $120 Adult, $80 Child Family & concession tickets available.

everything old is new again Hand made from recycled timber Finding the Grain, POA

pure indulgence Island Dreamer massage package Island Healing, $230

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words simone short photos warren reed & supplied

coast 18

From Syria,

with love

A 30-year love affair with Syria bestowed work, friendship and ultimately family on Fiona Hill. As the country she considers her second home is torn apart by conflict, Fiona is working to have her Syria family to join her in Dalyston.

When you search the word ‘Syria’ on Google Images, your screen floods with devastation: parents grasp their children close as they pick their way through the rubble of cities destroyed.

This is the only Syria many of us know.

Add the word ‘beautiful’ into the search engine and you’ll see quite the opposite. Exquisite sunsets over historic ruins, handmade stone houses on rugged mountainsides, and incredibly blue oceans brush up against lush green coastlines that would give Bass Coast a run for its money.

Both images are familiar for Fiona Hill. She has lived on and off in the rich, ethno-religious mosaic of Syria for 30 years.

When Fiona’s family retired from sheep and cattle farming, they moved from central Victoria to the city, leaving her heartbroken. The 21-year-old took off overseas and discovered the Arab region.

Fiona’s sister and her engineer husband were living in Abu Dhabi in the early 80s, when it was all deserts and a few fivestar hotels. Fiona visited them for a couple of months, and this trip started a journey she’s still making three decades later.

At 24, Fiona went back to university to study Arabic language, Judeo-Christian and Islamic Studies and, strategically, Archeology of the Near East. She knew very well that the relevant archaeological digs were in Syria - however, access to them was restricted to post-grad students.

Determined to go if she possibly could, Fiona wore down her professors until one finally agreed: she could care for his five-year-old daughter whilst they were excavating. “I so badly wanted to see Syria and it meant I got to do exactly what I

wanted to do: hang out with the locals and learn heaps from the kids,” Fiona says.

The archaeologists were billeted with families in a village on the bank of the mighty Euphrates River near the Hittite Fortress under excavation. This was the village Fiona would come to call home.

Nestled amongst the artworks on her office wall in Dalyston, Fiona points out a photo – a faded image of a Chevy driving past Roman tombs on a stony track. “That’s the whitewashed adobe village, and on the other side is the Euphrates River and all the floodplains where we had our market gardens, walnut trees, pomegranates and poplars. Apart from government rations of tea, sugar and oil, the locals ate only what they grew, or fished from the river. It was just divine. I thought I had landed in heaven.”

The archeology student built up her proficiency in the local Arabic dialect to the point where she was invited back for another two seasons. An avid journal-keeper since the age of eight, her daily entries on her life as a local on the Euphrates River became source material for her PhD in Anthropology.

When the digs came to a conclusion, her yearly visits continued, staying with a family she had quickly gravitated towards during that first visit in 1984. “They were the leading family in the village. They organised all the billeting and were kind of HQ for the village,” Fiona says. “They called me daughter and sister and cousin, and I called them the same.

Eventually the whole village, then the whole tribe, came to acknowledge me as a member of their family.” >

coast 19

Syria today is the stage for foreign militias to play out a bloody, geo-political battle…

Fiona’s visits were put on hold in her mid-30s while she looked for a job outside academia – a search that proved more difficult than expected. “I was always shortlisted, but never got the job.

I was even flown to Washington, where the panel agreed I was the best candidate, but HR disagreed; they said I’d be bored, and no amount of arguing would change their mind.”

Fiona ended up at Centrelink where she says the “astute” person behind the counter put her onto the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme, where she was able to use her skills to build a business plan and start her own venture – Almanar Consultancy. “Living by my wits and doing something that didn’t exist until I invented it is hard, but it does mean I love everything I do. That daily ‘How do I feed my family today?’ can wear me down, but it also means I have no limits,” Fiona admits.

And the bonus? Working with clients with business in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Libya, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan and Lebanon meant Fiona could visit Syria for several weeks a year on her own terms.

Fiona’s connection to Bass Coast began when she met her future husband Evan. They were both living in Melbourne and on the weekends Evan, a keen surfer, would travel down to Dalyston to work on a house he was building in between catching waves. They married in the Dalyston Church in 2001 and decided to relocate permanently when their son William was ready to start school.

William joined his mum on annual visits to Syria at the age of three and, taking after her, developed his own love for the country and its people. In fact, Fiona believes you won’t meet anyone who visits Syria and doesn’t fall in love with it. “People might go for trade or to see the historic sites, but they always come away loving the people. They’re very industrious, very

coast 20

generous, very open; they just have a very special quality that people from around the world recognise.”

Before the current conflict, Syria had no foreign debt and was undergoing radical reforms in health and education. Business was booming and the whole world was investing there.

Agriculturally self-sufficient, its produce was highly soughtafter throughout both Arab and European markets.

Since Fiona’s last visit in January 2012, however, Syria has changed. She says that to talk about the country as it was feels irrelevant, because it has all been destroyed. “Syria today is the stage for foreign militias to play out a bloody, geo-political battle, with President Bashar al-Assad vying with ISIS for the leading role,” Fiona explains.

It’s no longer about the Syrians, of whom more than 250,000 have died and 4 million have fled the country – including members of Fiona’s own ‘family’.

Having taken over their village in July 2012, the Free Army was ousted by the mostly foreign fighters of ISIS in August the next year. Last December, Kurdish-Arab allied forces ousted ISIS. None have been good to the villagers, most of whom have now had to leave, their homes looted or destroyed.

From the safety of our Australian homes, the Syrian crisis feels a world away. For Fiona, it may as well be happening in her backyard. She says the war was something not even the Syrian people saw coming. “It’s like talking about Dalyston and saying: ‘The school was closed by the Free Army; ISIS beheaded everyone at the pub and flogged everyone at the dance hall; the church and footy club were bombed by the US alliance; and all the houses were looted’. For my Syrian family it’s just as surreal as that.”

She says they all agree that Dalyston is the best place for them now that all at home is lost

They, like so many of their neighbours, remained in their home as long as possible. Leaving, even if it involved the possibility of becoming more vulnerable, was their last option, but one they eventually had to take. They are now registered refugees living in Turkey with no handouts, no legal work, and no education for their children. Fiona, along with her friends and family in Australia, keep them housed, clothed and fed.

Invited by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to give expert advice at the Za’atari Refugee Camp in Jordan, Fiona recognised that refugee camps are not safe places for politically-unaligned Syrians. She has embarked on the painstaking and lengthy process of getting her adopted family legally to Australia. She says they all agree that Dalyston is the best place for them now that all at home is lost. As crop farmers, orchardists, market gardeners, goat and sheep breeders, dairy producers, and handy at house construction and décor, they are a perfect fit for the local community.

For some Syrian refugees, however, the thought of moving even further into the unknown is terrifying. Fiona relays a conversation she had with a family in Turkey offered refuge in America. “The mother commented that she wasn’t sure she wanted to go. I asked, ‘Now, why would that be?’ and she said, ‘Well, it’s dangerous!’ We were all kind of laughing in an ironic way, saying: ‘You just got out of Syria!’ She said ‘Yes, I know, but it’s not usually like that; in America, you could get shot just walking down the street!’”

It’s sometimes forgotten that most refugees don’t want to leave home, let alone move across the world to a place where they can become lost in the mix of a foreign country and culture. Fiona says the members of her family, however, are ready to come to Australia and to settle in with people they’ve considered family for the last three decades. Now all there is to do is wait. ”They won’t get lost here. They love us and we love them – there’s got to be strength in that.”

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autumn 2016

events guide mArCh Understory – Susan Purdy Until 19 March Gecko Studio Gallery 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Gippsland Unwrapped – Tammy Logan 7 March 10 –11am 10–11am Inverloch Library, 16 A’Beckett St Contact: 5674 1169 and 12–1pm Leongatha Library, 2 Smith St Contact: 5662 4829 free but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Native Australian Bush Spices 8 March, 2 – 3pm Mirboo North Library Contact: 5668 1528 free but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au ‘Life in a Tin Can’ – Janice Orchard 9 March – 4 April. Thu–Mon, 10am – 4pm ArtSpace Wonthaggi, 5–7 McBride Ave Contact: 5672 1415 www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au Rosebud Kite Festival 13 March, 11am – 5pm Rosebud foreshore, Jetty Rd www.rosebudkitefestival.com.au Sunday Session 13 March, 12pm – 8pm Churchill Island Heritage Farm 246 Samuel Amess Dr, Newhaven www.penguins.org.au/news/events Newhaven College Tour 16 March, 9.30am 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Phillip Island Contact: Belinda Manning 5956 7505 www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au/events Peninsula Market Cruise 19 March, 8am Cowes Jetty, 11–13 The Esplanade Contact: Wildlife Coast Cruises 1300 763 739 www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

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A Survey of Transition – Adam Nudelman 20 March – 16 April Gecko Studio Gallery 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Full Day Wilsons Promontory Cruise 20 & 21 March, 9am Port Welshpool Jetty, 93 Lewis St Contact: Wildlife Coast Cruises 1300 763 739 www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au Artists’ Society of Phillip Island Easter Exhibition & Sale 24 March, official opening 7.30pm 25 – 27 March 10am – 5pm 28 March, 10am–12 noon Cowes Cultural Centre, Thompson Ave www.aspi–inc.org.au Easter Fun Festival 26 & 27 March, 10am – 4pm Churchill Island Heritage Farm 246 Samuel Amess Dr, Newhaven www.penguins.org.au/news/events Basic coding using Scratch (for children 8–12 years) 29 March: 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm Korumburra Library, 165 Commercial St Contact: 5655 1105 bookings essential, limit of 8 places www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Magical miniatures and gum leaf paintings 26 March – 31 May, open most days 10.30am – 5pm Stefani Hilltop Gallery 39 Keanes Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2377 stefanihilltopgallery.wordpress.com Earth & Industry: Stories from Gippsland with Julie Fenley 31 March 6 – 7pm Leongatha Library, 2 Smith St Contact: 5662 4829 free but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au

April Joey’s Kids Club Lego and Minecraft workshops 1 April, 11am & 1pm ($5 for Joeys & $10 non members) ANZAC Room, Phillip Island RSL, 225–243 Thompson Ave, Cowes Contact: 5952 1004 BH www.pirsl.com.au Peninsula Market Cruise 2 & 16 April, 8am Cowes Jetty, 11–13 The Esplanade Contact: Wildlife Coast Cruises 1300 763 739 www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

Basic coding using Scratch (for children 8–12 years) 4 April, 3 – 3.45pm Wonthaggi Library, Murray St Contact: 5672 1875 bookings essential, limit of 8 places and 4 April 11.30am – 12.15pm Inverloch Library, 16 A’Beckett St Contact: 5674 1169 bookings essential, limit of 8 places www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Author talk: Kate Lance 7 April, 5 – 6pm Foster Library, Main St Contact: 5682 1735 free but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Rare & Unusual Plant Fair 9 April, 9am – 3.30pm The Jindivick Public Hall, Jacksons Track Contact: David Musker 5628 5316 www.jindivickcountrygardener.com.au Western Port Craft Fest 9 April, 10am – 4pm Hastings Uniting Church Hall, Marine Pde & Hastings Rd Short story workshop 9, 16 & 23 April, 2 – 4pm Wonthaggi Library, Murray St Contact: 5672 1875 free but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Stories for adults with Gael Cresp 13 & 20 April at 11am, 27 April at 5.30pm Wonthaggi Library, Murray St Contact: 5672 1875 free but bookings essentialwww.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Author talks: Dr. Ross McMullin 13 April 2.30pm Leongatha Library, 2 Smith Street and 8pm at Leongatha RSL (preceded by dinner at 6.30pm) Cnr Smith St & Michael Pl Contact: 5662 2492 bookings essential Email: leongathahistory@gmail.com Lost Ragas 16 April, 8pm Meeniyan Town Hall, 97 Whitelaw St Contact: 5662 3093 www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au L’ouvre de les Oeufs ~ The Work of the Eggs – group exhibition 17 April – 21 May Gecko Studio Gallery 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Full Day Wilsons Promontory Cruise 17 & 18 April, 9am Port Welshpool Jetty, 93 Lewis St Contact: Wildlife Coast Cruises, 1300 763 739 www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

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autumn 2016

events guide April ANZAC Day Dawn Service, March and Main Service 25 April – 5.30am, 10.50am & 11am Cowes Cenotaph, The Esplanade www.pirsl.com.au Prom Coast Arts – A Collective Exhibition 27 April – 24 May, 10am – 4pm Stockyard Gallery, 1 Main St, Foster Contact: 5682 1125 www.foster.vic.au/listing/stockyard–gallery/ Newhaven College Presents ‘Into the Woods’ 29 April – 1 May (four shows) Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre 96 Graham St Information and bookings at www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au/events The Goldsmith’s Gallery Jewellery and Art exhibition 30 April – opens Shop 3/157–159 Marine Pde, San Remo Contact: Bronwyn Pratt 5678 5788 or 0409 934 543 www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

mAy Come and Play Dates: Throughout May – across Gippsland www.creativegippsland.com.au The Goldsmith’s Gallery Jewellery and Art exhibition Until 30 May Shop 3/157–159 Marine Pde, San Remo Contact: Bronwyn Pratt 5678 5788 or 0409 934 543 www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au Jewellery related workshops The Goldsmith’s Gallery Every weekend in May Shop 3/157–159 Marine Pde, San Remo Contact: Bronwyn Pratt 5678 5788 or 0409 934 543 www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

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Taste of Glass fusing pendant workshop Every Saturday in May, 11am – 1pm or 2 – 4pm Artfusion Studio and Gallery 9 Anderson Rise, Anderson Contact: Marlene Abela 0439 368 538 www.artfusionstudioandgallery.com Flat Sculptures: part 2 – Adriano Gemelli Throughout May Kelly and Gemelli Art and Design 57 Phillip Island Rd, San Remo Contact: Lynne Kelly 0428 390 108 www.kellyandgemelli.com Susan A Halls Gallery Open Studio Sundays in May, 1.00pm – 4.00pm 35A Pier Road, Inverloch Contact: 5674 2097 www.susanahall.com.au ‘Once Was Now Is’ – Mandy Gunn 5 – 30 May ArtSpace Wonthaggi: 5–7 McBride Ave Contact: Ursula Theinert 0439 699 241 www.mandygunn.webs.com www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au Shane Nicholson 7 May, 8pm Meeniyan Town Hall, 97 Whitelaw St Contact: 5662 3093 www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au Newhaven College Open Day 7 May, 10am – 2pm 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Phillip Island Contact: Belinda Manning 5956 7505 www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au/events Peninsula Market Cruise 7 May, 8am Cowes Jetty, 11–13 The Esplanade Contact: Wildlife Coast Cruises, 1300 763 739 www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au Mothers Day lunch 8 May, 12noon Jindivick Tavern, 1070 Jacksons Track Contact: 5628 5337 for bookings Theinert Gallery Open Studio 14 & 21 May Campbell St, Wonthaggi Contact: Ursula Theinert 0439 699 241 www.ursulatheinert.com.au and www.wernertheinert.com.au Mandy Gunn artist talk, ‘Once Was Now Is’ Exhibition 15 May, 2 – 4pm ArtSpace Wonthaggi – 5–7 McBride Ave Contact: Ursula Theinert 0439 699 241 www.mandygunn.webs.com www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au Eurovision 2016 15 May from 4.30am Wonthaggi Library, Murray St Contact: 5672 1875 free but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au

Anniversary Tapas Dinner & live music 21 May from 5.30pm Jindivick Tavern, 1070 Jacksons Track Contact: 5628 5337 for bookings The Gathering 2016 – extended stock room exhibition 22 May – 19 November Gecko Studio Gallery 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Reconciliation Week film screening: Putuparri and the Rainmakers 27 May, 7pm Wonthaggi Library, Murray St Contact: 5672 1875 – free event but bookings essential www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au

eXhibitionS Sea Mist – Marlene Abela Fused Glass Finding the Grain 40 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Contact: Marlene Abela 0439 368 538 www.artfusionstudiogallery.com Wildcoast Images Gallery Open Sundays and public holidays 10am – 3pm or by appointment Cnr Bass Hwy & Mabilia Rd, Kilcunda Contact: Tony Middleton 0412 171 535 www.tonymiddletonphotography.com Artist in Residence– Newhaven One whole week in May The Island Accommodation 10 – 12 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Contact: Andy Kemp 0429 943 391 www.creativegippsland.com.au

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Drawing Strength

When Sharnee Taylor was told that only two people from her class would have a successful career in illustration, there was no doubt in her mind: she would be one of them. Making a living from art, however, doesn’t rely on talent alone. It takes a lot of hard work and determination.

At first glance Sharnee’s impressive portfolio looks like the work of a photographer. Her pieces are so intricate and hyperrealistic you’ll find your nose almost touching the image just trying to comprehend how it was created.

Producing conceptual and editorial content for publications, working with fashion designers to illustrate their collections, and working for both local and international clients including Atlas Magazine, Silkwords, Norwood Industries, Kiss Johanna, Brash, Elletay, PVBS, Jennifer Wu and Budz, the 27-year-old has broken into an industry that is near impossible to succeed in.

Sharnee is quick to credit her teachers for helping her get to where she is today.

Growing up on Phillip Island, she always loved to draw – mostly pictures and cartoons for friends – but it wasn’t until she began studying graphic design at Wonthaggi Secondary College that she realised that art could be more than a hobby.

Her teacher Mr Jansen, who Sharnee describes as an amazing artist, would help the keen student to do anything she asked, whether it be draw, paint or research artists.

It was Mr Jansen’s encouragement that convinced Sharnee to study a Certificate IV in Design at Box Hill TAFE. “The course covered every aspect of design,” Sharnee says. “I started doing life drawing and realised I loved drawing and didn’t actually want to be a graphic designer. My teachers at Box Hill said, ‘You won’t get any work as an illustrator’ so that made me work harder.”

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There are only two illustration courses in the country and each of them takes on 25 students a year. Sharnee was one of those. Accepted into a Diploma of Illustration at The Northern Institute of Technology, she went on to study an Advanced Diploma In Creative Product Development. It was here Sharnee says she learnt everything she knows. “I went back and did another year there because my teacher was so good!” she laughs.

Sharnee quickly realised that being a successful illustrator wasn’t only about creating stunning images. It was also about being able to make money from them. So she spent a year studying business and took classes in advertising at night. “The illustration course didn’t teach me how to run a business, and as an illustrator, there’s no full-time work so you have to freelance,” Sharnee explains. “I didn’t really have a life for about six years, and I’m still a little bit that way! That’s the difference; you have to be sure that’s all you want to do and put everything into it.”

Sharnee uses a variety of mediums in her work. The realistic pieces begin with greylead and pastel and are then scanned into Photoshop and coloured in using a tablet. “It’s the same process as painting; you just don’t have the turps and the mess,” Sharnee, who started out as an oil painter, says. “I still use oils, but not as often, because they take longer to dry. A lot of people get annoyed if you use Photoshop and think you’re cheating, but in the commercial world things are produced >

Sharnee quickly realised that being a successful illustrator wasn’t only about creating stunning images.

words simone short photos warren reed illustrations sharnee taylor

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Sharnee saves her true passion – painting – for her free time

so fast. If you don’t use technology then you’re left behind.

You have to keep up with people who are right at the top of their game.”

Now that her day job revolves around illustration, Sharnee saves her true passion – painting – for her free time, and plans on building a folio targeted towards galleries and exhibitions.

She had her first solo exhibition in Cafe Lugano on Phillip Island in 2013 and her work now appears in group shows at least once a month. To add to her workload, Sharnee has also started teaching at Work Shop in Fitzroy and from her private studio in her new home in Doncaster.

Being able to take her work wherever she goes, whether it’s around Melbourne or on visits home to Phillip Island, is another perk of the job. She’s even embarked on two trips to

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New York to meet with potential clients. “Usually I’ll book the trip without having any meetings planned, and that forces me to write to as many people as I can and make as many contacts as I can. When you’re there, you’re walking into the offices of people you’ve heard of and whose work you’ve seen, but you’ve got no idea what it’s going to be like and you’re asking: ‘Please hire me’. It’s very scary,” she admits.

Sharnee’s second trip to New York in May last year was especially memorable. She met with designer Frank Verlizzo, best known for creating posters for prominent Broadway productions, and Mad Magazine. “They both opened my eyes to different directions in the industry, and showed me different avenues that I hadn’t thought of before. I’m open to working across different genres,” Sharnee says. >

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On her way home from New York, she was surprised by her partner, fellow Phillip Islander Jacob Fry, when he flew over and proposed to her during a sunset cruise in Hawaii. Sharnee says Jacob is creative in his own way, from music and films to acting, so when he appeared out of nowhere it was just the norm. “I didn’t think he was going to propose. Then I heard his voice get really pitchy. Usually he’s a good singer and I’ve never seen him nervous before, so that’s when I thought something was up.”

The romantic moment was captured on film and has now been viewed on YouTube over 100,000 times. The pair plans to wed at Jacob’s family home in Cowes later this year. For someone so meticulous about her work, Sharnee isn’t too concerned about the wedding plans. “Everyone says weddings stress you out, but we’re so cruisy. We’ll be here and our friends will be here

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and that will be enough. But I really want to draw things! Like invites or little gifts! That’s the only thing I care about,” she adds, the illustrator in her coming strongly to the fore.

For the most part, Sharnee says she’s living her dream. “My dream was always to be able to work for myself and make a living. You set smaller dreams, and when you get there, you plan the next one. I would love to live in New York and work over there for a little while. I’ve got a wish-list of people I want to work for. I guess it’s my dream to work for a few of them and make my own work more known.”

To view more of Sharnee’s work, visit www.sharneetaylor.com

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Phillip Island’s baby boom – the penguins are playing happy families

The penguins on Phillip Island have had a busy six months, with more chicks hatching on Summerland Peninsula than have been seen for many years. More chicks means more fishing trips for the parents to feed those hungry mouths, so visitors to the world famous Penguin Parade have been treated to very high penguin numbers as well.

According to breeding records from Phillip Island Nature Parks’ researchers, dating back as far as 1968, penguins normally lay two eggs during an entire breeding season, which starts in August and finishes in February. Almost every year, some penguins will lay their eggs a little earlier than expected, during what is known as the ‘false’ breeding season. More often than not, these early eggs and any resultant chicks do not survive.

This all changed last year though, as many more penguins than usual laid their eggs during this early phase. To the immense joy and surprise of the Nature Parks’ research team, the vast majority of these eggs survived. The ‘false’ breeding season became a very true, if somewhat early breeding season and the colony was filled with fluffy brown chicks.

The new penguin parents were then tasked with going out and fishing during the day, and coming home almost every night to feed their young. Over the next 10 weeks or so, the penguin chicks lost their fluffy down, grew a set of waterproof blue and white feathers and set off into the ocean to make their way in the world. words & photos supplied

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This really gave new meaning to the term ‘empty-nesters’ as a large number of penguins found themselves with no more chicks to look after, and it was still so early in the normal breeding season. Researchers waited with baited breath to see what would happen next as this was a highly unusual situation.

Within a few short weeks, the second clutch of eggs started to appear in the penguin burrows, and the baby boom was well underway. Thankfully, food supplies out in the open waters remained plentiful so that the adult chicks were able to successfully feed their second set of hungry offspring, and the peninsula was once again alive to the sights, sounds and smells of a thriving and breeding penguin colony.

The viewing areas at the Penguin Parade offer some great opportunities to see the penguins come ashore at Summerland Beach. While the penguins do come ashore elsewhere on the peninsula, Summerland Beach at the Penguin Parade is the only place where visitors from far and wide are able to watch the penguins leave the water during the nightly parade and make their way to their burrows.

Viewing opportunities have been recently enhanced with the opening of the new Penguins Plus and Underground Viewing experiences in November. This new viewing area was created in a wonderful new partnership between the RACV and Phillip Island Nature Parks. Both the Penguin Parade and the RACV have a long and shared history of providing exceptional experiences and service to Victorians, dating back to the early 20th Century.

The new facility is set to become a world-class and internationally recognised penguin viewing experience, inspired by the natural elements around us. The 90 metre boardwalk, which follows the most popular penguin pathway, reduces its footprint and maximises penguin habitat with the use of concrete piles and a steel frame, developed to withstand the harsh marine environment.

The design of the above ground viewing platform reflects the coves of Phillip Island’s spectacular southern coastline and seats up to 300 people. The Underground experience allows viewing from a penguin’s perspective through a 25 metre long viewing window and can house up to 70 visitors at a time.

offer unprecedented viewing opportunities. The design of the new development also ensures equal access for all across the entire facility.

In addition to these new viewing options, the Penguin Parade offers a variety of ranger guided tours for visitors over the age of 12. These tours operate with a maximum of 10 people and allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the life of a penguin on Phillip Island, with the aid of one of the Penguin Parade’s experienced and passionate rangers.

Phillip Island Nature Parks is a not-for-profit organisation that prides itself on finding the balance between delivering quality ecotourism experiences and implementing world-renowned conservation, social, environmental, research and education programs.

Visit www.penguins.org.au for more information and to book your tickets to the Penguin Parade. Bundle and Save with a range of ticket combinations including the exciting new Antarctic Journey, the Wild Oceans EcoBoat, the Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm, to create your own unique Phillip Island holiday.

Both of these exciting new viewing options directly overlook the Penguin Parade’s most used penguin pathway, so they

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Shedding my skin

words katie cincotta photos warren reed

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Dramatic weight loss, a move to Melbourne, and his emerging career in comedy and performance have transformed Phillip Lee Curtis physically, mentally and emotionally.

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I’m definitely much better at gay than straight.

He grew up in Grantville a heavy teen, hiding his insecurities behind long hair and baggy black band tees. Nobody could pronounce his elegant French surname – Dupuy – butchered in English to sound like dopey.

His friends were punks listening to the Sex Pistols, but behind closed doors the boy from Pioneer Bay preferred the chirpy optimism of The Spice Girls.

“I wish I could tell you that I was the well-adjusted kid who went surfing with his friends on the weekend, but in high school I was friends with the punky-goth kids, who I loved. I certainly dressed the part. We made our own clothes from op shop finds. But the punkiest music I ever got into was Blondie, and to really be punk you have to stop showering and I refused to do that.”

Here was a young man from the coastal fringe – the region caught somewhere between the surf culture of Phillip Island and the solid ground of Gippsland’s farming country – struggling to find his place in the world.

It would take more than a decade for that pallid version of Phillip Lee Curtis (his chosen new identity) to fade into the background, and for a brighter and more focused form to take his place – 58kg lighter, openly gay, ready to make his stage debut in a pair of tight, sequined underpants.

The dramatic weight loss – which took place over three years – was the catalyst for Phillip coming out at 22. A self-described late bloomer in terms of his sexuality, for many years all his focus was on his weight. “I was big for a long time and that was my main concern. I was so self-conscious.”

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A romantic relationship with a girl at 19 was Phillip’s “first everything”, but it ended badly in trademark Gen Y style – with a text message. “It was my 21st birthday and she just didn’t turn up.

She texted me and said ‘I can’t make it’ and of course I got really mad. I haven’t seen her since I came out but I hope she would be okay with it. I never lied to her. I still count it as a relationship.”

In shedding the weight, the boy who struggled to make eye contact with people finally made his transition to adulthood and came to the realisation – in the shower – that he was in fact gay. “I never say never but I’ve been fairly gay for a while now,” he laughs. “I’m definitely much better at gay than straight.”

After his parents divorced when he was 10, Phillip turned to emotional eating – often snacking at night when his mother was doing shift work. “My parents were very unhappy together so when they separated it was a relief, but the structure had gone from my life and the discipline was different.”

Having tried diets, Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers – losing a few kilograms and then putting them back on again – Phillip realised he needed to make a mental commitment to lose the weight for good. “I wasn’t ready. I was losing weight for everybody else because they said I had to.”

A defining moment came when he was shopping for shirts for his birthday. “I tried on a few and finally found one that I thought fitted me. I said, ‘Okay, c’mon let’s go’. My Dad, who has always been so supportive of me, turned and said gently, ‘Does it really fit?’” That low point forced Phillip to seriously consider his lifestyle and his future. “Originally it was about being thin, and then it became about being happy and healthy.”

Four years later, Phillip says there was no magic formula for his dramatic weight loss – no shakes, no liposuction, no crazy fad diets. He started with a visit to his GP and did the hard yards of healthy eating, portion control and exercise. “I cut down on wheat, cheeses, soft drink and juice, and then I got a treadmill, and joined a boot camp.”

But despite losing almost 60kg, and cutting his hair to show off the new angles of his face, Phillip lacked the confidence to hit the beach. “I still wouldn’t take my shirt off because I had stretch marks and sagging skin. I’d worked so hard, but I still didn’t feel I could stand there in my shorts. So I took 12 months to decide, but finally I went for a tummy tuck. I’m so happy that I did it. It cost a lot. I had to save and get a loan but it was so worth it.”

When I lost the weight, the first thing I wanted to do was sing.

He met a handful of people face to face – only ever after Google stalking them – and only recalls one disturbing meeting. He’s dating someone at the moment. It’s early days but he sounds happy, like he’s comfortable in his skin. He carries the scars of an obese past, but he’s accepted that physical perfection is impossible to achieve, and there’s no use chasing it.

Despite his incredible bone structure, his slim frame and magnetic green eyes, Phillip isn’t keen to put his good looks to use as a drag queen. “I know a few drag queens and it’s a lot of work, and I don’t know if I could keep that up. I might do it for fun but it’s not my focus. I’m happy to be myself and androgynous. I like the way I look now. I look like a guy. Off stage, I don’t dress like a female. I don’t wear make-up. I spent so long fighting and running away from myself, why would I want to be somebody else now?”

On the outside, people could see his physical transformation, but on the inside the self-confessed ‘fat kid’ had also started to let go of his fears. “When I lost the weight, the first thing I wanted to do was sing.” He found a ‘super loud’ singing teacher who he says “was everything that scared me” and she encouraged him to perform.

He may have been working as a graphic designer and living in the lively gay hood of Windsor, but Phillip remembers feeling terrified waiting in the wings of The Butterfly Club, just moments before he hit the stage for the first time. “I was hiding in the stairwell and I could hear the muffled noise of the crowd, and I kept saying to myself ‘You have to get up there, you have to do it.” Two comedy cabarets later and he’s planning his third musical endeavor and is now working on original songs.

While most of his reviews have been positive, one critic labelled Phillip’s second show about his struggles with his identity as self-indulgent. “It made me laugh that they said it was all about me. When you have your own show you can make it about you, but it’s also about sharing the story to hopefully help someone else.”

Like many Gen Ys, he’s used Tinder to find love. In the early days, he loved the validation of getting matched, and it rarely went further than that. “I was the ugly fat kid, remember.

Not anymore. It was really exciting when someone who was attractive would swipe you back.”

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Be inspired AT OPEN DAY Discover a world of opportunity for your children at Newhaven College’s Open Day on Saturday 7 May. Junior School goes Under The Sea!

Pre-school aged children can become underwater adventurers at the Junior School’s ‘Under the Sea’ program of special activities at Open Day. Treasure maps will guide youngsters around the school to meet teachers, have their faces painted, enjoy story time sessions, have some bubbly fun at the library, bounce on the jumping castle and lots more.

Visit www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au closer to the day for activity times.

The Middle School Difference

Middle School opened its doors to Year 5-9 students in 2014 to address the specific developmental needs of these year levels and the results have been outstanding.

‘The ten to fifteen year olds that typically comprise our Year 5 to 9s are going through the adolescent phase. As we all know, it is a period of rapid, uneven and complex development, physically, cognitively, socially and emotionally. This group of students needs are complex and I am so pleased that for sound educational and pastoral reasons, Newhaven College is able to cater for these age groups in a dedicated Middle School setting”, Mrs Lovell stated.

The Year 9 Environmental Centre and brand new Library/ Administration wing, Trades Skills Centre and Food Technology wing will also be open for viewing on Open Day to showcase the broad curriculum at Newhaven College that provides students with options to follow a diverse range of career pathways.

Co-curricular Opportunities

Students build self-confidence and team spirit through an extensive range of co-curricular opportunities that encourage individuals to pursue their passions, and they will all be on display at Open Day: • Music • Drama • Surfing Academy • Equestrian Team • House Competitions • Interschool Sport • Cultural Events • The Duke of Edinburgh and Compass Programs • Public Speaking and Debating • Language Studies • International Travel Experiences

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Newhaven College is My School Morgan Roney is Newhaven College’s Class of 2015 Dux and with an ATAR score of 99.4, she achieved her goal of studying Medicine at Monash University.

“I owe my VCE success to a number of different factors.

The biggest factor was hard work and study, but almost equal number one with study is the inspiration and encouragement I received from my teachers. Without their passion, teaching and endless support I wouldn’t have done anywhere near as well as I did.

I have so many great memories from Newhaven College that I don’t think I can pick a favorite. Lots of Year 9 activities come to mind, cycling with Mr Scott in the wetlands (swamp!) would have to be one of the most memorable. I also have lots of special memories from the friendships I made at Newhaven.

We kept each other laughing and happy and we could discuss what was happening both at school and in our lives.

With my father working as an Intensive Care Paramedic, his stories of the techniques he can use to help people has always interested me and is one reason that I chose to study Medicine.

It will no doubt be a challenging and stimulating career learning to deal with different people and also their different ailments.

My advice to students would be to start thinking about your future early. When picking subjects, go with what you enjoy and are good at because it makes VCE a lot easier. Look at tertiary courses early so you can find out if you need any prerequisite subjects and what ATAR score you are aiming for.”

Molly Hosken and Jack McDonald are the Captains of Middle School. They share their views on Leadership and the unique Year 9 Environmental Program at Newhaven College.

Molly and Jack agree that being a Captain at Newhaven College is definitely not just about wearing a shiny badge. “It’s about being someone who others have respect for and can trust and it is an honour being able to represent all Middle School students.”

Molly describes Year 9 so far as, “definitely a roller coaster ride!

What I’ve enjoyed most are the unique opportunities we have this year and that we are encouraged to give everything a go. It’s really great seeing everyone participate in things they wouldn’t normally put their hand up for, and I think this is what Year 9 is all about, getting out of your comfort zone and trying new experiences!

I’m most looking forward to the amazing opportunity I’ve been given to travel through Mongolia in June on a World Challenge expedition with Newhaven College. The 26 day adventure will include trekking, volunteering at an orphanage or school, and will finish at the Great Wall of China in Beijing.’”

Jack is enjoying the, “sense of community amongst all of us in Year 9. We have our own uniform and a separate building with a magnificent environment and outlook over the sea.

Looking back at my time at Newhaven College so far, I was extremely fortunate to have Mrs Pearce as my teacher in Years 5 and 6. She is dedicated, energetic and makes all her students feel special and engaged in school life.

What I like most about Newhaven College is that it provides opportunities to students beyond the classroom to participate in overseas camps, choirs, concerts, theatre performances, sporting events, community projects and much more. I feel all of this prepares us for the greater world.”

Finn Campbell-Walker and Luna Bowker are Proud Preps at Newhaven College and there’s lots they love about school.

Learning. Finn and Luna agree that is what school is all about.

Luna has been learning about words as well as how to draw dinosaurs while Finn has been learning about the alphabet using the Starfall program on the computers. “Our teacher is very, very, very, very kind and helpful.” Luna smiles. “Yes’,” says Finn, and she is smart too because her name is Mrs Smart.”

Finn’s favorite time at school is “going outside to play cricket and soccer. I like it because the Year 3s help me join in. I am Mrs Smart’s classroom helper this week. I do special jobs to help her set up and pack up.”

Luna thinks school is “Awesome! I have lots of new friends and coming to school is fun. We play Barbies together.”

The Phillip Island Road Campus and Year 9 Environmental Centre at 1770 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island will be open from 10.00am to 2.00pm on Saturday 7 May. For enrolment enquiries please contact Belinda Manning, on 5956 7505 (option 1) or visit www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au.

Inspiring Exceptional Futures Open Day Sat 7 May, 10am –2pm

1770 Phillip Island Rd, Phillip Island, 3922 5956 7505

www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

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Our coast boasts an incredible array of artists and these creative spirits are the heart and soul of our community. In our annual round-up of Art and Culture, we’re thrilled to be able to feature some of the talented people who call this area home.

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Meet the makers Some artwork lives in the rarefied air of a spotless gallery. Viewed far from the source of inspiration and the artist’s studio, we’re left to imagine just what spark, hard work and creativity brought it into being.

A visit to Artfusion Gallery turns that paradigm on its head. At the end of a short driveway off the South Gippsland Highway at Anderson, the gallery is both the showroom and workshop for artists Marlene Abela and Andrew Kasper. It’s a unique experience. When you fall in love with a piece, you can meet and speak with the artist who produced it, and see the tools and techniques that helped create it.

Beautiful glass art, giftware and jewellery are Marlene Abela’s speciality. Her colourful and distinctive glass platters are usable art – as beautiful as they are practical. The Sea Mist artwork series, inspired by the local coastline (currently also on display at Finding the Grain in Newhaven) are the perfect way to bring

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the ocean into your home. Alongside her striking artwork is a popular jewellery range of glass pendants and earrings. Each piece of jewellery and art, lovingly created, is unique. When you visit the gallery you also see exactly where these colourful and evocative pieces are created.

A walk through the Sculptural Garden behind the gallery is a chance to see Andrew Kasper’s imposing steel sculptures in their natural environment. Beauty and simplicity meld in Andrew’s work, which is equally at home in art collections and beautifully landscaped gardens. Harmony, nature and the cycle of life are explored, as Andrew imbues a part of his soul into each piece. The collection includes a standard range of permanently available sculptures or you can invest in a limited edition creation.

Artfusion Studio and Gallery is a living, breathing creative space. This is no standard gallery. Marlene and Andrew have created a uniquely personal artistic experience.

Drive in to see, feel, touch and talk with them.

In glass and rust we trust.

Artfusion

A living, breathing creative space Steel Sculpture – Fused Glass

9 Anderson Rise, Anderson, VIC. Open Thur to Mon 10.30am – 5pm.

Andrew Kasper 0407 368 538, Marlene Abela 0439 368 538 coast 43

artist profile

A slice of life In Mandy Gunn’s hands, recycled material, found objects and everyday items transform into stunning artworks that comment on and question our world and the way we live in it.

A beautiful silken bolt of woven material sits between us on the table in Mandy Gunn’s studio, nestled in the dunes of Tarwin Lower. As she unfurls the long woven piece it evokes both an historical tapestry and high-end fashion. “It’s actually two bibles,” explains Mandy, matter-of-factly.

The softly-spoken artist has made transforming the familiar into something sculptural and exotic to one of her trademarks.

Her career spans over thirty years and she’s amassed a formidable body of work that includes painting, weaving, monoprints, installation and assemblage work. Her pieces have graced the walls and spaces of major galleries and shows here and overseas, as well as regional centres across Australia.

Describing her approach as practical, down-to-earth and hands-on, Mandy explains: “I like to use materials that are part

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of our everyday life and transform them … but the original form is still recognisable. I feel art should say something about the context that you make it in. It should comment on what’s going on around us.” The consume-and-discard cycle of our society is also a major focus. “A huge number of things I’ve done are about waste. My work is really about what’s happening in life today. It’s about the current climate – where we are and what we’re doing.”

Back to the bibles: “I’ve woven crosses into the section made from the New Testament and the Star of David in the Old Testament,” she smiles. “I’m very interested in that idea of turning text into textiIes.” That transformation involves removing the pages from the books and using scissors to painstakingly cut them into thin strips, then weaving the pieces together on a loom. “I’ve done a lot of woven books …

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

I like to use materials that are part of our everyday life and transform them …

particularly old classics, dictionaries … I like using a printed medium and turning it into art, but where the original form is still recognisable.”

The material for Mandy’s most famous woven project was the unpretentious Yellow Pages. “Many people do a double-take,” laughs Mandy. “They see it and don’t know what it is. Then they get up closer and realise it’s something they’ve all had their hands on lots of times.” The 10m installation has taken on greater significance since its creation in 2006. “All of these things are going online. Sooner or later there won’t be a Yellow Pages at all, or telephone books.” A Metcard series of work created years ago reflects a similar shift in society. “My collection of Metcard pieces [train and tram tickets before the Myki] has become an archive of what once was. That’s what I mean about art making reference to what’s happening in normal life.”

With their children all grown and starting their own families, Mandy and her husband Ian moved to Tarwin Lower nearly nine years ago, after 30 years in Lilydale. “I went to Cape York to work on an art project for three months,” explains Mandy.

“We went to Aurukun, which is an aboriginal community of about 1200 people. After that, we just decided we’d like to live in a smaller community and have more property, more space… and not look onto another house.”

The couple searched extensively before settling on Tarwin Lower. “We saw this property and fell for it. You know when you find the right place,” laughs Mandy. “You can pick up vibes.”

She approached building the house as an art project of sorts, enlisting Melbourne-based architects and local builder Gil Trease to realise her vision. “I’ve done a lot of environmental sculpture, placing things in suitable spots outdoors,” smiles >

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Trying to keep yourself on the straight and narrow is not always a good thing.

of poured paintings, reflecting the motion of the dunes in the desert landscape. This method is a stark contrast to the structured and methodical techniques of her woven and assemblage work. “You can’t fully control what’s happening with poured paintings and I absolutely love that. It’s like a performance in a way … it’s quite nerve-racking. I have all the paints ready and once you pour, it all happens so quickly.

It’s exciting.”

Using different techniques is a way to stay motivated and inspired. “I like working across a whole range of media. Trying to keep yourself on the straight and narrow is not always a good thing. And sometimes the experience itself dictates what media you use. When I came back from Antarctica, making prints – using a technique that dissolves the ink – seemed a better way of describing what I’d seen happening to the ice than painting.”

Mandy. “So I said to the architects I wanted the house to look like a sculpture sitting in the landscape.” And along the long gravel driveway to the house, sculptures – some stark, some playful – dot the roadside, like huge three-dimensional calling cards.

The landscape provides inspiration and the raw materials for many of her projects. Bracken collected from the property was used for an installation in Noosa, while the quills from a dead echidna, woven together with Fireline fishing line, resemble a tribal necklace, fittingly assembled in a Perspex box like a museum piece.

Everyday items such as shopping bags also provide inspiration and source material for her work.” You know those nice paper bags you get with shoes or more expensive clothes? Some of those are fantastic … so luxurious. I cut up the bags and then glued them onto sheets of cardboard. Then I sliced these up and I constructed a model.” There’s something distinctly architectural about this huge floor sculpture (currently displayed in Wangaratta). “I called this one Centropolis, because of Centro. It’s like a shopping town, made out of shopping bags.”

While she is best known for her installation and woven pieces, recent trips to the Antarctic and the desert inspired a rash of monoprints and paintings. Her Simpson Desert series consists

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Another key component of this versatile artist’s expression is her role as a teacher. Since arriving in Australia at the age of 22 – “I came on the ten pound scheme when they were desperate for teachers” – teaching has been a cornerstone.

Trained originally as a secondary-school Phys Ed teacher, Mandy has also taught art and weaving at CAE and RMIT and still holds art lessons in her studio. “I love teaching art. I’m really interested in the idea of creativity and how it works. I think I’ve developed a teaching method that brings the best out in people … I don’t want to create clones: I try to get people to explore possibilities and come up with their own things.”

She juggled her own education around raising children and teaching, returning to study art courses at TAFE, Monash and finally the Victorian College of the Arts (where she finished with a Graduate Diploma and a Masters of Fine Art).

Now a grandmother five times over, Mandy Gunn has an air of energy and vitality normally associated with someone half her age. And don’t let those twinkly eyes and that soft voice (still bearing traces of her English origins) fool you into thinking that her approach to art is whimsical or gentle. Getting your hands dirty is not just a metaphor in Mandy’s studio. “I’ve always been interested in taking different materials and making something sculptural out of them. I think art should say something about the human condition.”

‘Once Was Now Is’ Exhibition 5–30 May – ArtSpace Wonthaggi, 5-7 McBride Ave Open Thu–Mon, 10am to 4pm www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au

PEACE BY PIECE. Using mosaics is telling a story in small pieces.

Mosaic Classes with Heather Fahnle.

C O MM I S S I O NS WE L C O M E

Heather

Fahnle

M O S A I C S B Y T H E B AY

www.fahnle.com.au |

Mosaics By The Bay | e: heatherfahnle@icloud.com | t: 0417 562 625

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Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

South G ipps land Shire Counc i l

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Over 200 artworks for sale.

Viewing by appointment only

Commissions available.

www.cpgalleries.com.au coast 50

Shop 7/8 Edward St Somerville, 3912 Phone: 5977 8724 Mobile: 0408 833 260 Email: cp@cpgalleries.com.au Cheryl’s work can also be viewed at the following galleries: Tusk gallery 438 Chapel St, Sth Yarra 9827 3338 & 76 Harold St, Camberwell 9882 2174 Gallery Sorrento 148 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento 5984 4933 and online at www.suburban312.com.au, suburbangallery@gmail.com 0418 172 211

Specialising in large to extra large artworks coast 51

At the heart of her art

Since opening her studio gallery in Inverloch three years ago, Annette Spinks’ artistic life has blossomed into a full-blown professional career.

A visit to Annette’s studio is stepping straight into the heart of her creative process. “People love coming in and seeing paintings I’m half way through or have just started,” laughs Annette. “They love seeing the progress. Some will come back six months later to see the finished work.” Her striking, large-scale canvases now adorn walls in homes, corporate offices and restaurants across the country.

Living by the coast, the ocean is a major inspiration for Annette’s work. In particular, her Waves series has struck a chord. “People want to take a bit of the ocean, a piece of Inverloch back home with them,” she says. “It’s a way to capture the happy times, the fun they had here.” Annette’s connection with the beach and coastal life comes through in every painting.

Visitors initially drawn to the studio to view the Waves often find themselves absorbed in Annette’s abstract series. “My abstract pieces have real meaning to me. I put my own emotions into each piece,” explains Annette. “Everyone sees things differently and each person has their own interpretation of the piece. I let people follow their own journey with them.”

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Looking back since she established her studio (situated in Dixon St in Inverloch’s industrial estate), Annette marvels at the way things have unfolded. “I really had no expectation of where it would take my career,” she admits. “I just wanted somewhere to create art. Now, every time I am commissioned or sell a painting, I think, ‘Yay! Now I can go and buy more paint and more canvases. It gives me the opportunity to continue with my journey and paint the ideas I have going on in my head. I am so grateful for that.”

Her expanding body of work includes several series and numerous commissions and her art is exhibited and represented by three commercial galleries. And you can still find her, back where it all began, in her own studio gallery, right at the heart of her art.

60 Dixon Street Inverloch Enquiries and Commissions 0418 555 222 | Online Gallery | www.annettespinks.com.au

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Robert Holcombe – Great Southern Land Series 152 x 137cm Acrylic on Linen

Robert Holcombe – Waterhole 14 x 12cm Ink, Pencil, Acrylic on Cartridge paper

HOLCOMBE & PENNY

Craig Penny – Silverton Storm 122 x 122cm Acrylic on Canvas

Craig Penny – Back Beach Walk 122 x 92cm Acrylic on Canvas

Exhibition 18 May-1June without pier G coast 54

A

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320 Bay Rd Cheltenham Telephone: 9583 7577 Mon to Sat 10-5pm Sun 12-5pm enquiries@withoutpier.com.au www.withoutpier.com.au

giPPslanD aRts Festival MaY exhibition 2016

Unique, bespoke

and creative jewellery for every occasion.

exhibition Dates: May 1 – 31 official opening April 30 and may 1, 11am – 4pm.

A collection of unique, bespoke Jewellery by Australian goldsmiths, Artisans and Jewellers.

Featuring the art of Lynne Bickhoff.

CoMe anD PlaY at the goldsmith’s gallery in May April 30 & May 1 Lampworked glass Bead making with Jane Power May 14 working with wax workshop with Bronwyn Pratt May 15 pearl and Bead Threading with Julianne Richards May 21 precious metal clay workshop with Tracey Minster May 22 working and colouring Titanium with Robyn Wilson May 28 & 29 Beginners Jewellery workshop with Bronwyn Pratt

Handmade, Well made, Australian made.

R egulaR Cla s s e s & exhi b i ti ons www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au TM

TM

TM

TM

S ho p 3 – B ridgeview ArcA de S A n re mo p ho n e : 5678 5788

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Feed your soul

The Jindivick Tavern has a view most artists would dream of painting, a fantastic array of food and walls loaded with art. What better way to nourish the senses and feed the soul?

In May 2015, Derek Timbs launched the Jindivick Tavern (formerly the Jindivick Harvest Kitchen) and set about adding colour and artwork to the walls, promoting local artists and creating a dining experience that rewarded all the senses.

The Tavern is a vital part of the food and market scene in Jindivick, serving fresh local produce and delicious homemade cakes, stocking local wines, and cultivating their own herb garden. Walls adorned with local artwork combined with the relaxed café atmosphere has produced an inviting and creative space that attracts social art groups, informal art lessons, and colouring-in sessions – loved by kids and grown-ups – and artists in residence. A striking mural is underway on one of the café walls and future plans include expanding their art display to the outdoors, hosting exhibitions from a variety of local artists, art workshops and attracting more local artists to the Jindivick Markets.

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A visit to the Tavern is a chance to enjoy beautiful food in relaxing and scenic surroundings. The featured artwork is all for sale with work from a variety of local artists, including Wendy Olsen’s striking octopus inspired art.

Hungry art lovers can feast their eyes and fill their stomachs with a visit to this friendly local establishment. The Tavern stocks a select range from local artisans, including soy candles, pickles, relishes and jams. They also stock a variety of wines from local, interstate and international vineyards.

Find out about upcoming events and exhibitions on the Jindivick Tavern Facebook page.

The Jindivick Tavern is open Wednesday to Sunday, including dinner on Friday and Saturday night. Take the scenic drive up to Jindivick and have all your senses tickled … and set your soul free.

oPening hours Wednesday 10aM To 4PM Thursday friday

10aM To 4PM 10aM Till laTe

(oPen for dinner)

saTurday

8:30aM Till laTe

sunday

8:30aM To 5PM

(oPen for dinner)

for friday and saTurday nighT, bookings are encouraged.

We offer a 10% discounT To all PasT and PresenT service Men and WoMen of The ausTralian defence force.

1070 Jacksons Track, Jindivick 3818. Ph. 03 5628 5337 coast coast57 3

g estudio c kgallery o

monthly exhibitions of contemporary artwork | art materials | picture framing | jewellery | ceramics opening times: thurs-mon 10am-5pm 15 Falls Road, Fish Creek p: 03 5683 2481

e: info@geckostudiogallery.com.au

w: geckostudiogallery.com.au

Stefani Hilltop Gallery 39 KeaneS Road

FISH CReeK

An iconic fish sculpture by artist Colin Suggett sits atop this magnificent Art Deco building (1939) in the heart of Fish Creek. Renowned for its fine food and boutique accommodation, the hotel now hosts regular art and music events in its newly-established ArtSpaces. This autumn, the ArtSpaces is showcasing a project featuring 30+ emerging and established local artists working with charcoal and local ochre.

Situated in beautiful South Gippsland and set in a unique romantic position, amid a small orchard and vines. The art gallery is a historic home built in the early 1900s. It houses a large range of original acrylics, oils, watercolours and pastels. Artist-in-residence Bianca Biesuz-Stefani.

Autumn exhibition” Magical miniatures and gum leaf” opens Easter Saturday to 31 May 2016.

Open Mon–Fri 11.30 till late, Sat–Sun 11am till late 1 Old Waratah Rd, Fish Creek 5683 2404 bigfish@fishcreekhotel.com.au www. fishcreekhotel.com.au

Open most days 10.30am–5.00pm or by appointment 39 Keanes Rd, Fish Creek, VIC 03 5683 2377 bianca.stefani@bigpond.com

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django gallery

Handmade, wood fired stoneware and porcelain. Visitors are welcome to inspect the kiln and studio and purchase pieces from the recent firing.

Open 10.30am–5pm weekends, public holidays and most weekdays (phone first weekdays). Cottage rental available.

60 Kardella-Fairbank Rd, Kardella (via Korumburra) p: (03) 5655 2405 e: gooseneckpottery@dcso.net.au w: gooseneckpottery.com.au

Original Artwork & Limited Edition Prints Glassworks Sculptures Jewellery Homewares Soft Furnishings & More ...

Opening Hours Fri & Mon 10am – 4pm Sat & Sun 10am–2pm Or by appointment – 0439 39 5060 3/154–156 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 0439 395 060 e: jjcoastalmagic@gmail.com

Leongatha Art and Craft Gallery Quality local Art & Craft

Regularly changing program of exhibitions feature a mix of traditional and contemporary local artworks and crafts. Their huge selection of handcrafted gifts includes ceramics, mosaics, wooden toys, glass art, pottery, clothing, cards, knitwear, jewellery and paintings. Free admission.

Discover B’zarte, a gallery of fine things, nestled in the heart of Jindivick.

Eight rooms in the old Post Office (circa 1952) are filled with character and country charm. We offer a fine selection of artworks, including local artists, jewellery, glassware, Stuart Crystal, Carlton Ware, Royal Albert, Doulton & Staffordshire pieces. The unique furniture on offer ranges in style through Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco & Retro.

Browsers are always welcome.

Open Tues–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–2pm Cnr McCartin St & Michael Pl, Leongatha 5662 5370 lacs@live.com.au www.leongathagallery.org.au

Open Wed –Sun, 11am – 4pm 565 Main Jindivick Rd, Jindivick Phone: 03 5628 5229 Email: bzarte@dcsi.net.au www.bzarteofjindivick.com.au

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Art & Culture Directory – Autumn 2016

a-binding press, Coronet Bay (p 125) www.karenvsandon.com.au/ a-binding-press 0402 455 795

Annette Spinks Art Studio & gallery, Inverloch (p 53) www.annettespinks.com.au 0418 555 222

ArtFusion Studio & Gallery, Anderson (p 43) www.artfusionstudioandgallery.com 0439 368 538 / 0407 368 538

ArtSpace Wonthaggi (p 4) www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au 5672 1415 B’zarte of Jindivick

(p 59) 5628 5229

Cheryl Petersen, Somerville (p 50) www.cherylpetersengalleries.com 0408 833 260

Creative Gippsland

(p 49) www.creativegippsland.com.au

The Goldsmith’s Gallery, San Remo (p 55) www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au 5678 5788

Gooseneck Pottery, Kardella (p 59) www.gooseneckpottery.com.au 5655 2405

Jindivick Tavern (p 57)

0466 441 855

L&J Tuddin, Inverloch (p 121) www.ljrestore.com 5674 3982

Leongatha Art & Craft Society (p 59) www.leongathagallery.org.au 5662 5370

Manyung Gallery, Mt Eliza, Sorrento, Malvern (p 48) www.manyunggallery.com.au 9787 2953

Mosaics by the Bay, Ventnor (p 47) www.fahnle.com.au 0417 562 625

Django Gallery,

Stefani Hilltop Gallery,

Cowes (p 59) 0439 395 060

Fish Creek (p 58) stefanihilltopgallery.wordpress.com 5683 2377

Fish Creek Hotel ArtSpaces (p 58) www.fishcreekhotel.com.au 5683 2404

Framed Inverloch (p 61)

5674 1333

Gecko Studio Gallery, Fish Creek (p 58) www.geckostudiogallery.com.au 5683 2481

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Without Pier Gallery, Cheltenham (p 54) www.withoutpier.com.au 9583 7577

Quality Framing at very Competitive Prices.

The choice of local artists and we oer all your picture framing needs. We have a huge selection of frames as well as professional and helpful advice.

G A L L E R Y W IT H LO C A L A RT W O R K S A N D F R A M E D P R I NT S BY F I O N A K E N N E DY AVA I L A B L E .

Shop K/10 A’Beckett St Inverloch, Ph: 5674 1333 Mob: 0409 809 855 framedinverloch@bigpond.com

Live the dream

Stunning coastal landscapes by Coast Magazine photographer Warren Reed www.coastmagazine.net www.warrenreedphotography.com.au

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words katie cincotta photos warren reed

“Gettin’ robbed, gettin’ stoned, gettin’ beat up, broken boned.

Gettin’ had, gettin’ took, I tell you folks, it’s harder than it looks.”

Imagine trying to kick-start your musical career while you’re juggling ‘real jobs’ and living in an area better known for beaches and surfing than rock and roll …

The sound coast 62

Some people don’t just dislike metal music. They think it’s the sound of Satan, not music at all but a writhing angry noise sought out by teen boys grappling with the pressures and frustrations of puberty.

Bass guitarist Riley ‘Riz’ Fransen, of San Remo’s rising metal outfit The Weight of Silence, says his own father is one of the non-believers. “He calls it ‘the devil music’. Even a lot of our friends don’t get it. I went on a date with a chick I met at The Westernport and she asked me: ‘All that heavy stuff – is it even music?’ We never went on a second date.”

It’s a Thursday night at Cowes and I’m meeting with two of the band members at a cool new bar on the foreshore.

Country artist Teresa Dixon is on stage with her melodic voice and her joyful banjo, and Riz confesses the first artist he ever got into was country legend ‘True Blue’ John Williamson.

Now it’s the dark howls of hardcore that have these coastal Gen Ys chasing the success of Aussie hard rock icons AC/ DC, Parkway Drive, and Karnivool. “Those classic Aussie rock guys like Rose Tattoo set the benchmark,” says Benny.

Riz chimes in with a random fact. “My mum saw Angry Anderson naked. She was dating the drummer from AC/DC and she walked into the laundry and Angry was standing there starkers. He only had one pair of clothes and he was washing them.”

The band’s foundation members ‘Buffalo’ Ben Pugh and Benny Ehmke both went to Wonthaggi Secondary College, but it was when ‘Buff’ was working as a roadie for Ben’s cover band that The Weight of Silence formed. Riz describes Buff as ‘a natural entertainer’ who belongs on the stage.

“He’s got a lot of vibe about him,” adds Benny. >

of Silence coast 63

A huge shed on the Pugh cattle farm in San Remo provides incredible acoustics for the band’s practice sessions. Buff’s younger brothers often stick their heads into the tin shed while the band is rehearsing and tell them to shut up. “The shed’s perfect. We can just be as loud as we want,” says Riz. When former drummer Nic Woods left the band because he and his partner were having a baby, the band recruited another Nic to fill the stool. Nic Courtney moved in from Geraldton – literally – setting up in a caravan on the lead singer’s farm. His new band mates are full of praise. “It’s hard to find good career drummers. He doesn’t like to wear shoes, but he’s a madman on the sticks.” The 20-year-old auditioned

by playing drum covers on YouTube. “Then we sent him one of our songs – ‘Broken Quill’ – and in a week he’d learned it and recorded it in a full studio.” He had three months to get ready for Unify, Triple J’s heavy music festival in Tarwin Lower in January, which drew a crowd of 5000 for its second year.

Headline acts included American pop punk band State Champs who toured with Adelaide’s rock darlings Five Seconds of Summer.

While The Weight of Silence work with Melbourne indie label Dead Memory Records, they also self-manage their gigs and promotion, relying heavily on social media to get themselves noticed. But with social media saturated these days, securing a spot on a prestigious festival like Unify is a great way to help a new band stand out from the crowd.

Another is to make a great film-clip. Their B-grade horror video for ‘Burn it Down’ was one way the band got attention, including from Triple J’s The Doctor (aka Lindsay McDougall).

They filmed it on a digital SLR at the old Warley Hospital on a budget of $2000. “We’re not actors. It’s not Avatar. A lot of the props we stole from Buffalo’s shed. It wasn’t supposed to be

funny at the start but the tipping point was Buffalo’s bad acting,” laughs Benny. A YouTube tutorial helped Riz to master the art of fake blood, proving there’s nothing you can’t find online.

While metal is where their hearts are, these boys don’t disregard other musical genres, especially when they pay the bills. Benny plays hard rock in Gippsland’s popular cover band Smashenator. Just don’t ask them for ‘Jessie’s Girl’, ‘Summer of ’69’, ‘The Gambler’, or ‘Khe San’ – they’re on the ‘banned’ list. By day, Benny runs a music store in San Remo, Riz is a carpet layer, and lead singer Buffalo is a refrigeration mechanic.

“You don’t get into metal to make money,” admits Riz.

… his own father is one of the non-believers. He calls it ‘the devil music’

Unify marked a big step forward for the San Remo metalheads, but like most festivals, it was mayhem. A hardpartying photographer lost his glasses and took all the event photos without full vision. A brown snake was found slithering around backstage and a snake catcher was called in. “All that bass going through the ground would have freaked it out,” says Riz. The guys say the Unify crowd proves that metal fans aren’t all angry dudes seeking to pack rage. “That’s such a cliché.

It’s not true at all. Dudes into metal at a concert are the least likely bunch of guys to get into a fight. The music might be angry but the ‘life’ side is cruisy,” says Benny. But the lads admit that by the end of Day Two, having camped on the football field, the crowd did look a bit shabby. “Everybody looked like zombies – there was just so much dust and dirt.”

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What the rising metal heads have learned from the rock and roll greats is never to mix business with pleasure. When drummer Nic wanted to bring his new girlfriend on tour, the rest of the band flat-out refused. “Remember Yoko Ono, man.

For your sake, we will say no,” laughs Riz.

The debut album hits 31 March, with live shows on 1 April at San Remo Hotel and 2 April at Bang in the CBD.

5

SIMPLE RULES to ensure the efficient use of water & avoid water wastage.

Hand held hoses MUST be fitted with a trigger nozzle. It can be used to wash your car and water your gardens and lawns at any time.

Gardens and lawns can be watered with a hand held hose any time, or by means of watering system between 6pm-10am on any day.

Public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces can be watered with a hand held hose at any time, or by means of watering system (fitted with a rain/soil moisture sensor) between 6pm-10am on any day.

Fountains and water features cannot be used unless the fountain or water feature recirculates the water.

Hard surfaces cannot be cleaned using water (including driveways, paths, concrete tiles, timber decking) except where cleaning is required as a result of a hazard, or in the course of construction/renovation. Hard surfaces can be washed if staining of the surface has developed, but only once per season.

Note: Approval is required to fill new pools or spas with a capacity of 2000 litres or more.

Contact Westernport Water on 1300 720 711.

Water wisdom.

With the recent lack of rain, it’s as important as ever that we remember to be conservative with our water use.

While the upgrade at Candowie Reservoir means it now has the capacity to store almost double the amount of water, we still should not be complacent with our water usage!

Managing Director of Westernport Water, Peter Quigley, believes the decision to upgrade Candowie Reservoir is now paying off. However, he states: “The next two years are forecast to be quite dry, so while we do have good water storage levels, it’s important to be mindful of how you use water.

“We’re asking everyone to follow the Permanent Water Saving Rules. This will help maintain storage levels and hopefully see us through the forecast dry conditions.”

Westernport Water is closely monitoring the storage levels at Candowie Reservoir and don’t anticipate any restrictions in the near future.

So what can you do?

• Follow the state-wide Permanent Water Saving Rules • Continue to support sustainable water practices in your home and business

www.westernportwater.com.au Westernport Water

@WesternportWtr

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surfer profile

The wave less For coast surfer Graeme Burgan, it’s not about performance, but all about going into the wave – and following the waves less travelled.

words sally o’neill photos warren reed & supplied

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The ocean has always been the focus of Graeme Burgan’s life. Born in Port Melbourne, he is quick to point out his proud Wonthaggi heritage – fourth generation no less. His great-grandfather was there during the founding years, travelling down in 1910 and enduring the harsh life of the fledgling coal-mining town.

The traditional summer beach-holidays were always a highlight.

Graeme enjoyed weeks of freedom at Cape Conran, Marlo and Kilcunda. “We just loved being at the beach fishing, swimming or surfing. Back in the early sixties we mucked around on plastic zippy boards and then we got a lend of a long board – it took two of us to carry the sucker,” laughs Graeme.

travelled…

Kilcunda was a year-round destination with a permanent family caravan. “I thought it was a windswept, barren hole. There were no trees and, in the end, Mum refused to go down there, so just Dad and I would go,” he laughingly recalls. He spent his days fishing, running and swimming on the remote beaches of Kilcunda, Powlett River and Williamsons. “One day I met Lionel Rose at the beach. I didn’t know who he was, but Dad would watch him training at the back of the Killy pub.” Outside the summer holidays the beaches were deserted, and Graeme often found himself alone in the wild waves.

When he was seventeen he went away with a mate to Noosa and paid $100 for his first short board which was a Keith Paull design.

“I was labouring, and at lunchtime we’d nick off and have a quick surf. When I got home to Victoria, I took it to Williamsons and the surf was huge. I paddled out and got the beating of my life! There were no leg-ropes in those days and I’m not a strong swimmer, so I lost the board.” Later he discovered that a bit of nylon cord attached to the board by means of hole drilled in the fin would act as a basic leg-rope.

Like most surfers of his day, Graeme chased the waves any which way he could, hitching rides or catching the train to Kilcunda. “I couldn’t afford a diving wetsuit, so I wore a footy jumper to keep warm. Rip Curl only started making wetsuits for surfers in the early 1970s.” He roamed the Gippsland coast looking for waves and, more often than not, surfing alone. “There was no one else surfing that coast, really. I was probably the first person to surf a few of the breaks; I’d hike through farms looking for new breaks and just camp on the beach. I never used to surf Phillip Island because there were too many surfers there and it was very competitive.”

One winter, while camping at Kilcunda, Graeme saw a police car come into the caravan park. The sergeant asked if he had seen anyone out in the water in front of the caravan park. “I told him it would have been me. I had long hair and surfie clothes, and he just shook his head and said I was crazy. That break is now called ‘Opposites’. I was the first one to surf it and always described it >

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as ‘Opposite the caravan park’. One day I got nailed big-time: the waves there break hollow, and if you get caught inside you get pushed down on the rocks. I saw God that day and came straight in.”

who surfed. We went away on surf trips together and then got married. In the 1980s, we went to Kangaroo Island and bought some land at Emu Bay – there were good surf spots there that no one really knew about.”

His life changed forever when he saw the iconic 1969 surf film epic The Innermost Limits Of Pure Fun by George Greenough. “The photography blew me away. A lot of it was done from inside the barrels looking out. He [Greenough] was out there in terms of his thoughts on what surfing was about: connecting with nature.” Greenough often rode a surf-mat – a rubber blow-up mat with fins – and Graeme instantly swapped his short board for a mat and began to see a whole new world from inside the hollow waves of Kilcunda. Also interested in photography, he made his own waterproof camera housing using instructions he found in ‘Tracks’ magazine.

His love affair with surf-mats ended abruptly: “I went under a wave and the ribs popped.” Luckily boogie boards had been invented, but Graeme wasn’t convinced about their performance: he took a year off surfing to focus on being a stay-at-home dad. When mate Bruce Oak suggested he try the new ‘mini mals’, he took to the waves again – and continues to surf a long board to this day. He also taught sons Andrew and Patrick to surf on long boards. “It’s not about being flashy: it’s about utilising all of the wave and doing it with style – it’s very meditative.”

I saw God that day and came straight in

A chance meeting with knee-boarder Neil Luke led him to Phillip Island, where he got to know the local surfers. “Because I rode a surf-mat, I wasn’t considered a proper surfer. So I would mainly hang out with knee-boarders as they were on the outer too. I was just more about getting into the wave rather than performance surfing.”

His studies completed, he got a job managing the sports centre in Cowes and moved into a share house on Phillip Island. His new crew encouraged him to join competition surfing and he won three state titles in a row in the surf-mat category. “One year Laurie [Thompson] won the Open Men’s, Neil [Luke] won the kneeboards and I won on the mat – three out of the four of us who went over to Bells Beach won.”

Island life continued and he spent every spare moment surfing Express, Barry’s Point or Flynns on his highperformance surf-mat, loving the way it allowed him to “get further back inside the waves.” He travelled up and down the east coast of Australia with his girlfriend, who was to become his wife. “When I met her, she was the only woman I knew

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Along with his love of the ocean comes a lifelong passion for its protection. “If you enjoy something, you have to put back into it and leave it as you found it.” He was a founding member of the Surf Rider Foundation and has contributed to many conservation groups over the years. He has now tallied up over thirty years of service for Phillip Island Nature Parks, and over that time he has inspired thousands of students about marine conservation.

And in his spare time, he’s always seeking the ‘wave less travelled’ in places where he can avoid the hype and crowds and just be at one with the surf. “There’s always a wave out there that’s not being ridden, and luckily a lot of us old blokes know how to find them,” he laughs. After all, he grew up in the days before mobile phones and Apps when you had to study the Herald weather maps and be prepared for adventure to simply find a wave.

“I wanna be like Dave Fincher, and surf until the day I die.

Surfing enriches your life and weaves threads through it that you can look back on. It gives life meaning.”

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Locally does it With everything from food to fashion, tools to jewels, garden supplies to groceries, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to our local shops. The fantastic array of businesses in our area speaks volumes, but in case you need more reasons to step into a local store, here are a few fast facts to get you thinking:

1.

2.

3.

Everything you spend comes back to you, indirectly speaking.

Local businesses donate more to local schools, sports and charities.

Statistics show that for every $100 spent at a local store, 58% more stays in the community than the same amount spent at a chain store.

Local businesses hire local people…in fact small business is the largest employer group in the country.

So next time you need to buy something, remember, locally really does it!

It’s time to go forth and go shopping …

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Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

loCAlly

leongatha DoeS it!

Tree lined, filled with country charm and tucked in at the foot of the Strzelecki Ranges, good old-fashioned service and hospitality are trademarks of the town.

This family owned café boasts a seasonal menu of homemade items made from free-range and local ingredients. Gluten free options, delicious cakes, gourmet pantry selection, organic tea and signature coffee blend. Available for catering and private functions.

Open Thursday – Monday 8am – 3pm a: 45 McCartin St, Leongatha p: 5662 5878 e: info@therustywindmill.com.au w: www. therustywindmill.com.au

We pride ourselves on delivering worldclass food. Whether it’s a private dinner, a cocktail party, wedding, gourmet bbq, corporate function or afternoon tea, we provide personal attention and exceptional food. Quality produce from local suppliers, prepared with care and delivered with pride.

Creating unique catering experiences.

a: 146 McCartin St, Leongatha p: 0447 728 547 e: brent@brentsinclaircatering.com.au w: www.brentsinclaircatering.com.au

ALL-NEW NISSAN NP300 NAVARA. POWERFUL MADE CLEVER.

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Tough exterior styling Premium ride and comfort 140kW twin turbo diesel*, 120kW single turbo diesel* or 122kW petrol* engines 5-Link rear suspension* or leaf-spring rear suspension* Smart technology features

Call in and test drive today.

Outstanding safety features including 7 airbags Single Cab, King Cab and Dual Cab models

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1 Roughead Street, Leongatha VIC 3953 T 5662 2327 F 5662 2642 E edney@dcsi.net.au W www.edneysleongatha.com.au

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loCAlly

newhaven DoeS it!

Come in and enjoy the all-day breakfast and lunch menu, real fruit smoothies, milkshakes and protein shakes and strong, sweet coffee!

With cakes for every occasion (including edible printed cake toppers) plus a fantastic range of gelato, sorbet and gourmet chocolates. Family friendly with lots of GF menu options.

At the gateway to Phillip Island, this tiny village has real heart … and all you need to know about surfing, artisan crafts, food and relaxation.

Open Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 10am–5.30pm, Sat–Sun 9am-5pm. a: 3 Bair St, Leongatha p: 0409 863 299 e: sweetlife@dodo.com.au

An immersive multi-media experience, showcasing Australia’s role in surf culture, the experience consists of four key elements, each showcasing a key aspect of Australian Surf, including the first ever 360° wrap around surf movie featuring Phillip Island’s iconic Woolamai Beach breaks.

Open 9am –5pm a: 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Newhaven p: 03 5956 7553 e: info@islantis.com.au w: www.islantis.com.au

Don’t miss their famous scallop pie made on the premises and a great range of mouthwatering meat, chicken and vegetable pies as well as pasties and spinach and cheese rolls.

Indulge your sweet tooth with a delicious slice, cake or strudel served with a fresh cup of coffee.

Boutique coffee Disciples!

Loved by locals and described as a “hidden gem”, we’re on a mission to brew you the finest Botero Brass Blends. Quality In-house handmade creations. Healthy options: vegetarian, vegan, raw Super-foods for the soul.

Enjoy the tranquility and sweeping bay views at Churchill Island Café where rustic charm and quality service meet.

Open 7 days 6.30am–5pm a: 5-6 Forrest Rd, Newhaven p: 5956 6089

Open Mon–Sun, 7am–4pm a: Shop 4 Bluebird Ct Newhaven p: 5956 6883 e: now@thebigwavecafe.com.au w: www.thebigwavecafe.com.au

Monday–Friday 10am–5pm Saturday & Sunday 9am–5pm a: 246 Samuel Amess Drive, Churchill Island p: 61 3 5956 7964 w: www.penguins.org.au

The abundance of local, seasonal produce means our chefs can truly bring the ‘paddock to your plate’.

Join us for a gourmet breakfast, casual lunch, or plan a memorable function or wedding with us.

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The holistic PICTURE

Trekking the Kokoda Track was a transformative experience for Island Healing’s Chris Dallinger and kick-started his career.

“In 2003, I did a ten day trek along the Kokoda Track with a bunch of mates and injured my shoulder blade. When I came back to Australia, I was in Noosa and I went to a clinic to try and sort my shoulder out and the woman persuaded me to try a Bowen therapy session.

“I’d never heard of Bowen, so she explained it, did a few moves and then left the room. I felt a tingling like electricity firing down my legs and arms. One moment I felt like I was floating, then I felt super-heavy. Within ten minutes, I felt the effects of the treatment. That was it. I knew right there that I had to learn Bowen therapy.”

The former surf instructor and keen sportsman already had a degree in Human Movement which helped fast-track his Bowen studies. After graduating, he returned to Phillip Island and by 2005 Island Healing was born. “I wanted to start my own clinic, but I also wanted to build a team of like-minded people. I renovated this place and set up four treatment rooms and a fitness studio. Now we offer Bowen therapy, remedial massage, healing treatments, day-spa massage and facial packages (including hot stone), as well as pilates, yoga, group fitness classes and personal training.”

74 coast 2

So just how does Bowen therapy work? “Basically it involves cross-fibre rolls across the muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. By flicking at one point, we’re trying to release that muscle-tendon-ligament-nerve combination. After a series of these moves, I leave the room for a few minutes, to give the body time to respond. It’s about releasing tension and aligning the body. Any kind of ache, pain or tension can be treated with Bowen. Because it’s non-invasive and totally holistic, it’s great for babies, children and the elderly. It works well for anyone who doesn’t like the crack and crunch of a chiropractor, or feels uncomfortable with massage. I’ve treated people with chronic sciatica, migraines, earaches, and kids with asthma or ADHD. It can help people suffering the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

“You don’t need a referral, just ring and book an appointment. The results I personally got from Bowen were amazing and I want to give that to other people. That’s a really fulfilling thing.”

Repair, relax and rejuvenate.

• Massage: Remedial, Deep Tissue, Relaxation, Aromatherapy, Hot Stone, Pregnancy & Reflexology.

• The Bowen Technique.

• Gift Vouchers. Online & In-Store.

• Naturopathy, Ear Candling & Reiki.

• Pilates, Yoga, Circuit, Group Fitness Classes, Personal Training & Meditation.

• Massage & Facial Packages.

4 Treatments Rooms. Group bookings.

On the spot rebates Ask about on-the-spot private health rebates for remedial massage.

Open 7 days. Phone: 5956 7886

6 Forrest Avenue, Newhaven info@islandhealing. com.au www.islandhealing.com.au coast coast75 3

Hands on ENVIRONMENTAL WORK

Each beautiful, handcrafted piece of furniture in the Finding the Grain showroom is a vital part of Mark Davis’ crusade to protect the environment.

For Mark, protecting our environment is about more than a slogan or a petition. It’s a passion that dictates the way he lives and directs the nature of his business.

Every piece of furniture he makes is crafted from locally sourced recycled timber. “Hopefully I can help to educate people so they think about the environment before they go out and buy something made in China and shipped to Australia,” smiles Mark. “When you buy something from me, the timber is local, the work is done here on Phillip Island.”

Mark loves creating stunning furniture, but is always focused on the bigger picture. “Working in recycled material gives these beautiful timbers a second life and reduces the impact on the environment. When you chose to buy a table made from recycled wood instead of a new one from a big chain

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,, Recycling... , it s an all encompassing ,, thought, really store, you are making a difference to the environment. Every little choice we make…it makes a difference. They all add up.”

The Finding the Grain showroom only contains a fraction of the furniture Mark produces. “We do a lot of work on commission. We can custom-make anything for anybody and for pretty much any budget!” A surfboard table, created in partnership with renowned surfboard shaper Terry Klemm attracts a lot of attention. “I make them and then Klemmy shapes them based on his old mal templates, just expanded and stretched.” Once the table is glassed, Klemmy signs it and put the Klemm Belle logo on it. “Last week, I had this 80 year old Indian couple from Brisbane order one,” laughs Mark. “They weren’t who I expected to walk through the door and want a surfboard table.”

Hand made Showroom

Environmentally friendly

Custom made

Commissions

Kitchen bench tops, sliding doors, front doors, tables, chairs, bookcases, TV units. We can custom make anything and everything to suit any budget.

When he is not in his workshop, you’re likely to find the keen surfer at the beach … either out in the waves, or collecting rubbish from the shore. “All the money I make in the business goes back into preserving the environment,” he says. “If we don’t look after our oceans, there will be nowhere left to go.

It does frustrate me that people don’t know how to look after what we’ve got here.”

40 Phillip Island Rd Newhaven Phillip Island Mark: 0418 355 148 factory@findingthegrain.com.au www.findingthegrain.com.au

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Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

loCAlly

cowes DoeS it!

It’s hard to go past beautiful waterfront views, but when you do, you’ll find a bustling town filled with fabulous cafes, stores and services.

We have an inspiring range of furniture for all areas of the home, including lounge and dining suites to suit the coastal environment plus mattresses and linen, rugs and cushions.

We also supply and install floor coverings and window furnishings.

Open Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm.

Sat and Sun 9am – 2pm a: 155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes p: 5952 1488 e: tania@southcoastfurnishings.com.au w: www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

Elegant and casual dining 100m from the Cowes foreshore. Daily menus include fresh produce and beautiful seafood, with vegetarian and gluten free options. Also serving Phillip Island’s best seafood platter for dinner, and Gourmet Fish and chip specials for lunch.

a: 5 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 5952 3773 e: eddie@sherwoodsrestaurant.com.au w: www.sherwoodsrestaurant.com.au

Island Shoes

Grip fitness provides a wide range of equipment, catering for all fitness types, including cardio and free weights, and pin-loaded machines (for specific muscle exercises). Group training and one-on-one sessions. Regular weekly set classes to suit any fitness level. Improve your fitness, tone, flexibility, strength, endurance, speed, agility and power.

Authentic Japanese food with friendly service. Fresh sushi, rice paper rolls, and wide selection of hot food available for takeaway or dining in. Now open for dinner Friday & Saturday. Please ring 5952 6444 for bookings.

Limited takeaway menu available on Friday and Saturday after 5pm.

Open 365 days, 24 hours a: 91 Settlement road, Cowes p: 5952 6700 e: info@gripfitness.com.au w: www.gripfitness.com.au

Open 7 days 10am – 7.30pm on weekdays, 10am – 3pm Sundays a: Shop 1, 68 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 5952 6444 w: www.youkis.com.au

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Rieker has been handcrafting European footwear since 1874, designing for the dynamic qualities of the foot with a snug heel, forgiving instep and roomy toe box.

Walk in comfort, wear in style - winter range now in store.

Open Mon–Sat 9am–5pm , Sun 10am–2pm a: Shop 4/134-138 Thompson Ave, Cowes. p: 5952 2515 e: islandshoes@waterfront.net.au

Beautiful local produce + award-winning chef + a pinch of fun = A unique dining experience in the heart of Cowes!

Homemade cakes, exquisite truffles and delicious fresh, seasonal meals. Catering and function packages available.

Open 7 days, 9am–9pm a: 4/72 Chapel St, Cowes p: 5907 6900 w: cheekygoosecafe.com.au

Phillip Island’s newest golf attraction. Play one of 40 courses or practice on the driving range. Relaxed atmosphere, pool table and kids games (fuzzball, mini pool table and air hockey). Enjoy day or evening and bring a friend or two along! (Happy hour 5pm–6pm everyday.) Highly competitive rates.

10am–8pm weekends/school holidays/ public holidays, 4pm–8pm all other times.

After 8pm by appointment only. a: 6/26 The Concourse Cowes p: 0490 261 962 e: cowesindoorgolfcentre@gmail.com w: www. cowesindoorgolfcentre.net

petite collections

A gorgeous range of products including Australian designers locally handmade fair trade 2/17 The Esplanade, Cowes 3922 0400569663 petitecollections@bigpond.com follow us on @petitecollections

The restaurant and cocktail bar in the Kaloha Comfort Resort. Chef Tim Stephens delivers a seasonal a la carte menu with an emphasis on local produce including seafood, vegetarian options and excellent local beef.

Open Tuesday – Saturday – 5.30pm – 11pm a: Cnr Chapel & Steele St, Cowes p: 5952 5858 e: sales@thepalmsphillipisland.com.au w: www.thepalmsphillipisland.com.au

TYDE

a selection of beautiful clothing accessories body products & homewares 59525860

info@tyde.com.au

follow us on

@tyde_boutique

Shop 2/34-38 Thompson Ave Cowes 3922

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required for these products. Customers must always read the label and seek professional medical advice if conditions persist. Concession card holders will pay the discounted concession amount $5.20, except where medicines attract a brand or therapeutic price premium. See priceline.com.au or call 1300 88 44 11 for details and participating stores.

Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

Priceline Pharmacy Cowes

Pennylane Phillip Island Cowes

COWES

003568

24 Thompson Ave, Cowes Ph: 5952 2061

We are passing on the

$1PENSION DISCOUNT on scripts*

Wonderful coffee and organic teas. The allday breakfast menu includes eggs poached, scrambled, fried or benedict – all free range – plus a fabulous ‘big breakfast’ with the lot. Try the mouthwatering selection of sandwiches, burgers and salads for lunch and there’s gluten free options available. Free Wi-Fi.

Sales • Service • Hire Your local supplier of Mobility Aids & Lifestyle Products. From walking sticks, wheeled walkers and mobility scooters, to bathroom and lifestyle aids/accessories.

Our services extend from the general public to care homes and district hospitals.

*$1 off from January 1st, 2016 or as decided by the

government.

Discount only applies to PBS Your Priceline pharmacist is here to subsidised assist you prescriptions for concession card holders based by you determined advice and talking throughis on giving government price.

A prescription required for these products. Customers must always your health From ourmedical friendly staff read the label concerns. and seek professional advice if conditions persist.

Concession card willgive pay to our trained cosmeticians, weholders aim to the discounted concession amount $5.20, except you the best advice recommendations, where medicines attract and a brand or therapeutic price premium.

See and priceline.com.au call 1300 88 44 11 great prices the latest or products. for details and participating stores.

*$1 off from January 1st, 2016 or as decided by the government.

Discount only applies to PBS subsidised prescriptions for concession card holders based on government determined price. A prescription is required for these products. Customers must always read the label and seek professional medical advice if conditions persist. Concession card holders will pay the discounted concession amount $5.20, except where medicines attract a brand or therapeutic price premium. See priceline. com.au or call 1300 88 44 11

Priceline Pharmacy Cowes 24 Thompson Ave, Cowes Ph: 5952 2061

Open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri. 10am–4pm Saturday by appointment a: Factory 3/17-19 The Concourse, Cowes. p: 5952 3352 or 0437 243 448 e: focus@waterfront.net.au

Open 7 days 9.00am – 5.30pm (min) a: 24 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 5952 2061 e: cowespharmacy@gmail.com w: www.priceline.com.au 003568

Open 8.30am–3.30pm a: Shop 4, 22 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 0438 860 923 e: wickers6@hotmail.com w: www. pennylanephillipisland.com.au

Cowes

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Start the day with a Huevos Benedictos, or chilli bean mash, avocado, chipotle and hollandaise on toasted Turkish. A great range of soups and sweet treats and a regular kids session on Thursday mornings something for the whole family.

Open 7 days 9am–16pm a: Shop 2/148 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 5952 6384 e: threeacescafe@gmail.com

Celebrating our fourth year in the new premises in the heart of Cowes, alongside the popular gift and coffee shops.

We use Goldwell colour system; including an ammonia free range and super bright fashion colours and stock Goldwell, De Lorenzo, Davroe and Eleven products.

Clients of all ages welcome.

We supply and install floor coverings including carpet, vinyl, bamboo and laminate floating floors. We offer a large range of options for window furnishings, blinds, curtains, shutters and awnings for inside and outside and have your furnishing interiors covered.

Open Mon–Fri 9am–5.30, Thu 9am–7pm Sat 9am–4pm a: Shop 4 34-38 Thompson Ave, Cowes p: 5952 2297 e: islandhair@gmail.com w: www.islandhair.com.au

Open Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm.

Sat and Sun 9am – 2pm a: 155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes p: 5952 1488 e: southcoast@flooringxtra.com.au w: www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

SKUNKWEAR COWES THE TRENDMAKER

NEW STOCK WEEKLY. IF WE DON’T HAVE IT, WE’LL GET IT FOR YOU.

Ladies fashion and Accessories 48 THOMPSON AVE, COWES

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5952 6050

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Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

Bridgestone Service Centre Phillip Island Bridgestone Bridgestone Service Service Centre Centre Phillip Phillip IslandIsland Bridgestone Service Centre Phillip Island At Service Centre Phillip Island At Bridgestone At Bridgestone Bridgestone Service Service Centre Centre Phillip Island Phillip Island At Bridgestone Service Centre Phillip Island fifind an extensive extensive range of quality you’llyou’ll you’ll find an nd extensive an rangerange of quality of quality you’ll fi ndcan an extensive range quality We with all logofbook book tyres.tyres.

We can assistassist with all with logall book log tyres. Weand can assist with all log book services repairs tovehicle. yourvehicle. vehicle. services and general general repairs repairs to your to your services and general repairs to your vehicle. orus visit store today! today!

Call orCall visit in store us in store today!

Call or visit us in store today!

We offer a range of options for servicing your pool or spa. Our aim is to have you enjoying your pool or spa without the worry of keeping it crystal clear, algae free and safe for swimmers! Come in and see us or give us a call to discuss what best suits you and your pool or spa.

Musclescope Massage – an established clinic formerly known as Anthony Fradkin Remedial Massage – is proud to have Yumiko Murakami working alongside Anthony for the last 18 months. We offer professional treatments in all areas of remedial, therapeutic and deep tissue massage including dry needling and cupping. Please call for an appointment with Anthony or Yumi.

OpenOpen Monday to Friday to Friday 8am –8am 5pm––5pm Monday Friday 8am 5pm Open Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm Saturday 8am –8am 12pm – 12pm Saturday 12pm Saturday 8am – 12pm a: 101a:Settlement Road,Road, CowesCowes 101 Settlement Road, Cowes a: 101 Settlement Road, Cowes p: 5952 1480 1480 p: 5952 p: 5952 1480 bridgestonetyres.com.au/phillip-island w: bridgestonetyres.com.au/phillip-island w: bridgestonetyres.com.au/phillip-island w: bridgestonetyres.com.au/phillip-island

a: Factory 5/26 The Concourse Cowes p: 5952 1414 e: accounts@pristinepools.com.au w: www. pristinepools.com.au

Open Monday to Saturday a: 2/15 Warley Avenue, Cowes p: 5952 6669 m: 0417 330 557

A wonderful, colourful eclectic mix!

Ladies clothing (including Desigual), Jewellery, Fashion accessories and Gifts from all over the world.

Beachside’s guide to fabulous hair:

loCAlly

san remo DoeS it!

Nestled under the Phillip Island bridge, this idyllic fishing hamlet is the perfect spot for eating, browsing or stocking the pantry.

You need to set aside time to enjoy the atmosphere, the music and the huge range of items available in this intresting shop.

1. Mix: 1 egg, ½ cup honey, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 avocadoes 2. Pour over salad 3. Ignore steps 1&2 4. Book your appointment at Beachside There’s no quick fix to fabulous hair.

Leave the fabulous to our star stylists.

Open 7 days (closed tue, wed mid-July/Aug). a: 137 Marine Pde, San Remo p: 5678 5944 e: glyn.gp@gmail.com

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Open Tues–Sat a: 103b Marine Pde, San Remo p: 5678 5323 w: www.beachsidehairandbeauty.com.au

Carmie’s Kitchen

Let Shorelec help with all your electrical needs. We supply, install and service airconditioning systems, and supply wood, gas and electric heating. We have a wide range of commercial and domestic appliances, trade electrical, data, voice, lighting and musical instruments in store.

Open Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8am–1pm a: 95 Marine Pde, San Remo p: 5678 5361 e: shorelec@hotmail.com w: www.shorelec.com.au

Friendly service and fabulous coffee! Homecooked menu includes burgers, foccacias, soups, salads and our famous bacon and egg roll. Our sweet treats include fresh baked muffins and cakes. Big on flavour and value … and did we mention we love coffee?

Open 7 days 8am – 4pm, a: 144 Marine Pde, San Remo p: 5678 5589

Mario and Linda Zinellu are practically an institution on the coast, and this fabulous bistro is the latest chapter in their food journey. Continental influences with a focus on flavour, freshness and local seafood.

Open every day. Come in and experience la dolce vita. Food with heart.

Open 7 days 12–2pm, 5.30–8.30pm except Tuesday 5.30–8.30pm a: 93 Marine Pde, San Remo p: 5678 5365 e: mariosbistrosanremo@yahoo.com

Eatery + Fudge + Micro coffee roastery Providing signature blends for cafes and restaurants at wholesale prices

7am – 4pm, 6 days (closed Wednesday) breakfast + lunch + coffee + sweets + ice cream 4/157 Marine Pde, San Remo 0407 717 588 email: hello@beand.com.au http://beand.com.au coast 83

Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

R E A L E S TAT E S A L E S

Sweetly brings hand made ice cream and sweets to San Remo. Our ice cream is made in South Gippsland by Prom Coast Ice Cream & Sorbet and includes gluten free, dairy free and vegan friendly options. We also offer a number of other local treats and old family favourites.

Garth Lisle Property Consultants is a family run business with over 30 years experience in the Real Estate Industry – we specialise in listing, marketing & selling residential & lifestyle properties throughout San Remo and the Phillip Island area.

Closed Mon & Thu (ex public & school holidays) a: Shop 8, 157-159 Marine Pde, San Remo p: 0418 349 489 e: contact@sweetlysanremo.com w: www. sweetlysanremo.com

Open 7 days a week 9am to 5pm a: Shop 3/129 Marine Pde, San Remo p: 5678 5878 e: enq@glpc.com.au w: www.glpc.com.au

San Remo

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Don’t spend time worrying if your home and business are safe and secure. Bass Coast Security - the most recognised security providers on the coast can take care of all your security needs.

Open Mon–Friday 8:30am–5:30pm After Hours By Appointment a: 1/65 Back Beach Rd, San Remo p: 1300 47 47 48 e: steve@basscoastsecurity.com w: www.basscoastsecurity.com.au

LocaL produce at its best.

We offer an extensive range of fresh fruit and vegetables, local products, local and international cheese selection, on-site butchers, a fully stocked deli and bottle shop.

facebook.com/sanremosupermarket 135 Marine Pde, San Remo, VIC 3925. Phone: 5678 5337. Fax: 5678 5756.

DESIGNED

with

i n123 m iMarine n d. Parade, San Remo

AU T U MN W IN T ERTelephone 2 016

5678 5202

OPEN: Monday–Friday 9am– 6pm Saturday 9am–12.30pm (extended hours in December & January)

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Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

loCAlly

wonthaggi DoeS it!

Steeped in history, surrounded by walking tracks, heathland reserves and just minutes from a beautiful coastline, Wonthaggi is also the regions commercial centre.

Come and see our great range with leading brands and great prices.

Ovens and Cooktops Range hoods Dishwashers Fridges Saucepans Pasta equipment

Dinner ware and Glass ware Cutlery Decorator items Candles Bakeware & cake decorating

Open Mon–Wed 9am–5pm, Thu–Fri 9am–5.30, Sat 9am–1pm a: 15/17 Murray St, Wonthaggi p: 5672 4733 e: wonthaggi@my.betta.com.au w: www.gippslandhomeliving.com.au

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This gorgeous café’s homemade cakes and biscuits at are an absolute indulgence.

Regulars actually ring to reserve their Devonshire teas – those fresh scones just fly out the door. Beautifully prepared food, excellent coffee and a great range of teas ... all served with a smile and a touch of old-world glamour.

Open Monday to Saturday 9am–5pm a: 104 Graham St, Wonthaggi p: 0401 663 842 e: blanchebuttermilk@gmail.com w: www.houseofblanche.com.au

FO O N S F

O

R

G I F TS

Est. 1911

BIKE AND SCOOTER SALES

REPAIRS

SERVICES

BIKE HIRE

Foons For Gifts – unique and gorgeous quality giftware, exclusive to our store.

Leather goods including purses, handbags and travel cases, beautiful painted Turkish ceramics, candles and scent diffusers, plus a range of exciting home decorator products.

Wanting distinct quality & style?

Then The Wonthaggi Club is for you!

With modern facilities we can cater for all your needs, that special birthday, wedding, corporate seminar or just a quiet drink with friends. The Wonthaggi Club is the place to be.

Cross Over Cycles is a small shop with a big heart. We sell reputable brands such as GIANT, SCOTT, AVANTI, PEARL IZUMI and many more.

No job is to big or two small. Come in and have a chat with our friendly staff today!

Open Mon to Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 9am–12.30pm a: 72 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi p: 5672 1411 e: foons@dcsi.net.au w: www.foons.com.au

Open Mon–Sat 9am–12am, Sun 10am–11.30pm a: 16 McBride Ave p: 5672 1007 e: info@wonthaggiclub.com.au w: www.wonthaggiclub.com.au

Open M–F 9:00am–5:30pm, S 9:00 am–1:00pm a: 118 Graham St, Wonthaggi p: 5672 2270 e: info@xover.com.au w: www.xover.com.au

brian Paynter MP State MeMber for baSS

Please contact my office if I can assist you

talk to

brian brian.paynter@parliament.vic.gov.au 03 5672 4755 9 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi 3995 and 51 James St, Pakenham 3810 Authorised & Edited by Brian Paynter MP, 9 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi 3995. Tel: 5672 4755 www.brianpaynter.com.au. Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communications Budget.

A full range of veterinary services for all species including farm services, Dental Care & Radiology, Puppy preschool, Seniors Club, Myotherapy, and Grooming. Consultation by appointment only.

Clinics also located at 42 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven and 16B William St Inverloch.

Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm, Sat 8.30am-12.30pm a: 290 White Rd, Wonthaggi p: 5672 1044 e: mail@wonthaggivet.com.au

We are your local WEBER specialist dealer.

• Weber Charcoal • Weber Q

Feel free to drop in to one of my offices.

If I can assist you with any State Government issues, please contact me.

• Weber Premium Gas BBQ’s • Firespice™ Smoking Woods • Full range of accessories.

Open Mon–Wed 9am–5pm, Thu–Fri 9am–5.30, Sat 9am–1pm a: 15/17 Murray St, Wonthaggi p: 5672 4733 e: wonthaggi@my.betta.com.au w: www.gippslandhomeliving.com.au

a: 9 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi 3995 p: 5672 4755 a: 51 James Street, Pakenham 3810 p: 5941 1203 e: brian.paynter@parliament.vic.gov.au /brianpayntermp @brianpayntermp w: www.brianpaynter.com.au Authorised by Brian Paynter MP, 9 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi 3995. Tel: 5672 4755 Email:brian.paynter@parliament.vic.gov.au www.brianpaynter.com.au Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communications Budget

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Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

loCAlly

inverloch DoeS it!

On the coastline around the protected waters of Andersons Inlet, Inverloch is seaside perfection. Explore the shops, indulge your senses and treat yourself.

Treats for all: lollies, fairy floss, Dutch and UK treats and a brilliant range of chocolatecoated goodies. Our lolly bouquets, gift boxes and boxed chocolates make the perfect gift.

Sugar-free and gluten free ranges and lactose free chocolate available.

Open 7 days, 10am–5pm through Autumn a: 17a A’Beckett St, Inverloch p: 0418 557 889 e: fun@treattime.com.au w: www.treattime.com.au (FB)

Specialising in slow-cooked Asian curries and contemporary Australian fare. A large selection of wine and beer is available.

Movie & Meal luncheon on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Two courses for $20 per person including movie in our cosy gold class cinema. Small groups welcome.

Open Wed to Sun, lunch from 11am, dinner from 5.30pm 5 Lindsey Close, Inverloch 03 5674 1199 manna-gum@bigpond.com www.manna-gum.com.au

Inverloch

Family fun and fishing in a Hobie kayak. The kayak you can peddle, paddle and sail…or sit back and enjoy the hands-free experience.

We’re an authorised Hobie kayak dealer with full range of accessories and specialise in kayak fishing fit outs.

Open 7 days, 9am-5pm. a: 8 Williams St, Inverloch p: 5674 3322 e: rodbending@dsci.net.au w: rodbendingsworld.com

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Tapas

al fresco dining all homemade

dinners thursday – sunday, open 7 days breakfast + lunch, live music every sunday 2 – 5pm.

including a curated collective of independent designers

9 a’beckett street, inverloch 03 56 74 1188 info@velanine.com.au www.velanine.com.au

mookah studio 11 A’Beckett St, Inverloch www.mookah.com.au

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Lo C A L LY d o e s i t

loCAlly DoeS it – AlSo in the AreA...

inverloch

san remo

wonthaggi

l&J tuDDin AntiQue & DÉCor gAllery, 5674 3982

CoAStAl reFrigerAtion & AirConDitioning, 5678 5190

Connell’S bAkery, 5672 1050

mikA & mAX boutiQue,

orgAnAture, 5678 5444

5674 3518

wAterFront@SilverwAter reSort, 5671 9300

melAleuCA nurSery, 5674 1014

newhaven the CApe kitChen, 5956 7200

cowes CArpet Court, 5952 6377 hArry’S on the eSplAnADe,

phillip iSlAnD ChoColAte FACtory, 5956 6600

5952 6226

South CoASt kitChenS,

0400 214 446

5956 7415

phillip iSlAnD rSl, 5952 1004

iSlAnD SeCure StorAge,

turn the pAge, 5952 1444 wilDliFe CoASt CruiSeS, 1300 763 739

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FACtory Seven, 0417 142 478 mArk FArmer FinAnCiAl SolutionS, 5672 5565 megA biteS CAFÉ, 5672 3344 Southern bAzAAr, 0407 414 895

Experience the Aspire difference ...

Build with Aspire Designer Homes and let us provide the experience,comfort and security that is so important in today’s world.

Relax, knowing you are dealing with an organisation that has held its building licence for over 30 years and has UNLIMITED insurance cover.

Build with Aspire Designer Homes and enjoy the choice of over 100 award winning designs or you may wish to take advantage of our expert Design & Construct division.

Aspire has appointed senior management local to your community who understand the requirements of their fellow neighbours.

Benefit from dealing with a group that has built over 6000 homes for Victorian families.

Aspire maintains its policy to employ local trades and suppliers where ever possible!

Come talk to Aspire!

Aspirations to Reality!

Visit our Display Home at 179 Thompson Ave Cowes.

Opening hours: Sat/Sun 11am – 4pm Mon/Tues/Fri 10am – 3pm Or by appointment Karen Sherwood, Sales Consultant M 0411 774 699

karensherwood@aspiredesignerhomes.com www.aspiredesignerhomes.com.au Head Office Ph: 9785 5100 coast 91

autumn

where to eat guide Basia Mille 1 Taylor Crt, Fish Creek 5687 1453 Beautiful wine, delicious platters of cheese and antipasto

BeANd Café 4/157 Marine Pde, San Remo 0407 717 588 Coffee connoisseurs, brilliant benedicts & all-day breakfasts

The Big Wave Café 4 Bluebird Crt, Newhaven 5956 6883 Tasty muffins, great breakfasts and fabulous salads

Cape Kitchen 1215 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven 5956 7200 Ocean views, fresh produce, brilliant breakfast and lunch

Carmie’s Kitchen 144 Marine Pde, San Remo 5678 5589 Homestyle ambience, excellent coffee and fresh-cooked food

Cape Kitchen

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House of Blanche 104 Graham St, Wonthaggi 0401 663 842 Old-world-glamour with home-made cakes and Devonshire teas

Cheeky Goose Café

Island Pies

4/72 Church St, Cowes 5907 6900 Delicious fresh seasonal meals and homemade cakes & truffles

5–6 Forrest Rd, Newhaven 5956 6089 Try their famous scallop pie, or meat, chicken or vegetable version

Churchill Island Café

Jindivick Tavern

246 Samuel Ames Dr, Churchill Island 5956 7964 Seasonal produce and rustic charm

1070 Jacksons Track, Jindivick 5628 5337 Local wines, homemade cakes, soul food and tapas

Connells Bakery 33–35 Murray St, Wonthaggi 5672 1050 Pies, mouthwatering muffins and fresh-baked bread

Deli on Bass Shop 6/1524 Bass Hwy, Grantville 5678 8288 Small goods, cheese, antipasto, dips plus sweets and coffee

Fish Creek Hotel Old Waratah Rd, Fish Creek 5683 2404 Stylish bistro menu featuring seasonal and fresh produce

Harry’s on The esplanade 17 The Esplanade, Cowes 5952 6226 Superb seafood, fresh local produce and panoramic bay views

Kernot Food & Wine Store 1075 Loch-Kernot Road, Kernot 5678 8555 Rustic wood-fired pizza delights

Kilcunda General Store 3535 Bass Hwy 5678 7390 Friendly staff, fresh local ingredients.

An all-day-breakfast favourite

Kilcunda Ocean View Hotel

Nui Dat Café – Vietnam Veterans’ Museum

Bass Hwy, Kilcunda 5678 7011 Top notch bistro food, friendly service, fabulous view

25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven 5956 6400 Delicious homemade cakes and scones

Manna Gum @ Broadbeach 5 Lindsey Cl, Inverloch 5674 1199 Superb Asian-fusion, slow-cooked curries and contemporary Australian fare

Nobbies Centre Nobbies Centre, Phillip Island 5951 2816 Functions and café with ocean views

The Palms Restaurant & Bar Cnr Chapel & Steele St, Cowes 5952 5858 Seasonal a la carte menu with passion for seafood

Sherwood’s Restaurant 5 Thompson Ave, Cowes 5952 3773 Elegant casual dining with fresh produce and beautiful seafood

Sweet Life Café 3 Bair St, Leongatha 0409 863 299 Smoothies, cakes, gelato and all day breakfast and lunch menu

Three Aces Café Shop 2/148 Thompson Ave, Cowes 5952 6384 Touch of Mexican spice, sweet treats, soups and regular kids sessions

VelaNine Penny Lane Café Shop 4, 22 Thompson Ave, Cowes 0438 860 923 All day breakfast, mouth-watering sandwiches and salads

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven 5956 6600 For chocolate lovers, plus buffet and all-day menu

Mario’s at San Remo 93 Marine Pde, San Remo 5678 5365 Food with heart and Continental influences

Mega Bites Café 132 Graham St, Wonthaggi 5672 3344 Tantalise your taste buds with local produce and house made items

9 A’Beckett St, Inverloch 5674 1188 From breakfast to dinner – stylish, simple modern food

Watermark @ Silverwater Resort 17 Potters Hill Rd, San Remo 5671 9300 Indoor and outdoor dining with spectacular views

Wonthaggi Club Phillip Island RSL 225 Thompson Ave, Cowes 5952 1004 Local beef, fantastic parmas, vegetarian treats and great kids meals

The Rusty Windmill 45 McCartin St, Leongatha 5662 5878 Delicious cakes, organic tea and coffee and gourmet pantry selection

16 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi 5672 1007 Distinct quality and style.

Available for private functions

Youki’s Japanese Take away Shop 1, 68 Thompson Ave, Cowes 5952 6444 Authentic Japanese home-cooking

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words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

dine out

A view

to FiNe diNiNG

Harry’s on the Esplanade is an institution on Phillip Island, with a formidable reputation for its fresh seafood and spectacular views.

When Coast heard that Harry’s was developing some dishes for its autumn menu, we jumped at the chance to sample its latest offerings. We opted for lunch so we could enjoy the wonderful views over the main beach at Cowes, and fortunately the weather gods were on our side.

ragout. When the dish arrived, its palette of autumnal colours made it look almost too good to eat. This is a dish for serious seafood-lovers: five different types of seafood placed on a bed of spinach that floats delicately in a saffron-flavoured ragout.

We kicked off with a fabulous truffle pasta: handmade tagliatelle in a creamy sauce and topped with shards of Manjimup truffles from Western Australia. Quite simply, this tasted incredible … rich cream, truffle jus and Parmesan cheese finished with a pinch of nutmeg and white pepper.

In the past, I’ve eaten truffle dishes where the earthy taste was completely overwhelming, but here the balance was just right. That delicious, creamy, savoury flavour combined with perfectly-cooked fresh pasta was an A+ start to our meal.

Not one mouthful disappointed us. My sister happily snapped up the mussels (delicious, she assured me), while we divided the prawns, calamari and whiting stuffed with fresh crabmeat between us. And the seafood was so fresh it practically came with an itinerary: Port Arlington mussels, prawns from Lakes Entrance, Port Franklin calamari and fish caught right here in Rhyll. The prawns and calamari were tender and juicy and the whiting stuffed with crabmeat tasted sweet and delicate. Perfectly for a fussy fish-eater like me, there was no overpowering ‘fishy’ flavour.

At this point, I need to disclose that I am probably one of the world’s fussiest fish-eaters. Given Harry’s reputation for exceptional seafood, I’d invited my sister – a self-described seafood fanatic – to join me for lunch. Between the two of us, I was confident we’d be able to thoroughly road-test the seafood

The ragout was accompanied by a side-dish of buttery steamed potatoes ideal for coating with the glorious saffron sauce. And yes, the sauce was delicious – a discrete accompaniment that enhanced the seafood without stealing any of the limelight. >

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Five different types of seafood placed on a bed of spinach that floats delicately in a saffron-flavoured ragout.

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We were also intrigued by the dish’s garnish. What looked like a sprig from a small succulent plant turned out to be samphire – sometimes known as the ‘asparagus of the sea’. Crunchy in texture with a salty taste, it’s a great accompaniment for seafood. It’s worth mentioning for the gluten-intolerant amongst us that the entire dish was gluten-free.

Before we settled into our dessert, we caught up with Harry for a few minutes. It’s clear that food is his passion, and over his 30+ years in Australia he’s built up a network of suppliers who meet his exacting standards. Once a week he makes an early-morning trip to the markets to get the freshest ingredients, while he sources his seafood direct from four or five trusted fishermen.

His network of local supplies includes Grantville free-range eggs and Phillip Island beef from Ventnor. Although the menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest produce available, the poultry is always free-range and the bread, pasta and ice cream is home-made. This dedication to sourcing the best possible ingredients, and the work in the kitchen of Harry and his chef James Spencer, are key to the restaurant’s enduring success.

accompaniments – mango slices, lychees, blackberries and strawberries – balance the velvety richness of the custard.

While we concentrated on seafood dishes during our visit to Harry’s, there are plenty of other options on the menu, from goats cheese tarts and homemade gnocchi to duck, chicken breasts, pork belly and beef. And as the food is cooked fresh, the kitchen can accommodate special dietary requirements. If you’re not planning on driving home, be sure to check out the prodigious wine list.

It features over 200 different wines, including some from the awardwinning local Bass Phillip Winery, acknowledged as being amongst the best pinot winemakers in Australia.

…the poultry is always free-range and the bread, pasta and ice-cream is home-made

Finally … to dessert. We order the crème brûlée - an old favourite with a twist. Harry has introduced woodruff – an ingredient well known in his native Germany – to the recipe.

Prized for its sweet scent, which increases when the plant is dried, an infusion of woodruff is added to the milk and cream, adding an almond-like flavour to the rich vanilla custard.

The caramelised sugar topping is crunch-perfect and the fruit

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With its focus on exceptional food and quality service (the new front-of-house team is on hand to ensure you get the best possible dining experience), you really cannot go past Harry’s on the Esplanade.

If you want to take a little of your Harry’s experience home with you, check out the restaurant’s EzyMeal range of gourmet frozen meals available for pick-up or home delivery.

Visit www.harrysrestaurant.com.au for details.

We grow, make and bottle on Phillip Island Beautiful Cellar Door with stunning bay and farm views

Vineyard & Winery 96 McFees Road Rhyll Phillip Island Hours: 11am – 5:30pm 7 days a week in Summer & School Holidays Other times: 5 days a week (closed Tuesday & Wednesday) Ph: 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

2015 Gippsland Wine Show Gold Medals – 2014 Pinot Noir, 2014 Shiraz, 2009 Late Disgorge Blanc de Blanc

Freshest local seaFood on the Island Local fresh produce with seafood straight from the boat, Island grazed beef and lamb and in-house bakery.

Waterfront dining With panoramic bay vieWs 17 The Esplanade, Cowes Vic.

Ph (03) 5952 6226 www.harrysrestaurant.com.au

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What’s c

king

With Easter around the corner, there’s no better time to whip up a deliciously decadent chocolate treat! Malteser Bunny Cupcakes make the perfect Easter party food that all kids (big and little) will adore. Or for an adults-only dessert, a batch of Baileys Tim Tam Balls is just the thing honestly, these are AMAZING! Have a wonderful (and yummy) Easter break.

Baileys Tim Tam Cheesecake Balls

Malteser Bunny Chocolate Cupcakes

Rich, creamy and completely no-bake… these Baileys Tim Tam Cheesecake Balls should come with an addictive warning!

Delicious chocolate cupcakes decorated with yummy chocolate frosting and Malteser bunnies… the perfect Easter treat!

Ingredients: 2 x 165g packets white chocolate Tim Tam biscuits 225g cream cheese, softened 60ml Baileys Irish Cream liqueur 300g white chocolate, for dipping 50g melted milk chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Ingredients: For the cupcakes: 125g butter, softened ¾ cup caster sugar 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 11/4 cups self raising flour 1/3 cup cocoa 2/3 cup milk

Method: 1. Crush Tim Tams until they resemble fine crumbs, then mix with the cream cheese and Baileys Irish Cream liqueur.

2. Place mixture in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up.

3. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a tray lined with baking paper, then refrigerate for a further 20 minutes.

4. Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl on 50% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until completely melted.

5. Use two forks to dip the balls into the melted chocolate.

Allow any excess to drip off, then put back on the tray and set in fridge for 1 hour.

6. If desired, drizzle with melted milk chocolate.

For the frosting: 220g dark chocolate 230g butter, softened 1½ tbs milk 170g icing sugar 12 mini Malteser bunnies 4 large Malteser bunnies, crushed Method: 1. Preheat oven to 170°C and line a 12-hole muffin tray with cupcake cases.

2. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Add eggs and vanilla extract and beat until well combined. Alternate folding through the sifted flour and cocoa with milk until combined.

4. Spoon mixture into cupcake cases and bake for 15 minutes. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before placing onto a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Slice tops off cupcakes so you have a flat surface.

6. Frosting: Beat butter until creamy and pale. Slowly pour in milk and beat well.

7. Melt chocolate and then add to butter mix and beat well.

8. Slowly add icing sugar and beat until smooth and creamy.

9. Spread small amount of chocolate frosting over the entire top of cupcake. Then using a piping bag, pipe on extra chocolate frosting.

10. To decorate, sprinkle crushed Malteser bunnies over the frosting and stand a mini Malteser bunny in the centre of each cupcake.

Lucy began her website ‘Bake Play Smile’ in 2013 and it has since grown into one of Australia’s most popular food blogs. Bake Play Smile is all about fun, food and happiness. Lucy is living the dream in our beautiful part of the world and loves to share family favourite recipes that are quick, simple and most importantly, delicious!

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Home of Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate, a unique, interactive and educational celebration of all things chocolate. ° Daily hot curry lunch from 12 – 3pm ° Hot Chocolate made with real chocolate ° Choc dipped frozen bananas

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, 930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven phone 5956 6600 web www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au

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building stronger communities

InvestIng In educatIon San Remo District Financial Services Ltd sounds like an imposing corporate title, but on closer inspection you can see there’s way more community spirit than corporate red tape at work.

When hard economic realities make university education an elusive goal for local students, the local Bendigo Community Banks® are on hand to help. In the past four years, the three branches overseen by San Remo District Financial Services (San Remo, Cowes and Grantville) have helped 11 students achieve their education goals. Each year, at least three first year university students are awarded scholarships of $5000.

As an added incentive, the students qualify for a further $5000 the following year if they pass all their first year subjects. In total, $75,000 has been allocated to helping the careers and skills of our young people.

In 2015, four local students pursued their higher education dreams thanks to Bendigo

Community Bank® scholarships. Dan Stafford started his Bachelor of Engineering at RMIT, Jennifer McFee and Jessie Bickham studied double degrees in Art and Science at Monash and Criminology and Psychological Science at Deakin respectively, while Karen Franssen attended Melbourne University for her Bachelor of Fine Arts.

Terry Ashenden, Chairman of San Remo District Financial Services, said it was a pleasure to be able to help the students overcome the financial hurdles of further study. “Dan, Jennifer, Jessie and Karen were chosen because of their academic, sporting and community achievements. Our young people are our future and their development is critical to our communities success.”

CommunitY Promise Our Bank believes successful customers and successful communities create a successful bank – in that order.

First and foremost, we’re a good bank. But it’s the way we help communities to prosper that makes us unique.

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Your Bendigo Community Bank® has provided

$1.267 million in sponsorships

$717,000

in community grants

$413,500 in dividends

Applications for scholarships close in January each year. Details on how to apply are available online or at your local Bendigo Community Bank® branch.

“We return approximately 80% of our profit to the local community in the form of sponsorships and grants.”

PuttIng communIty Into aged care As well aiding the development and education of local young people, the Bendigo Community Banks® are supporting an innovative new approach to aged care.

A $50,000 grant to Phillip Island Homes for the Aged is helping to build new housing project in Cowes specifically aimed at single retirees. With a rapidly increasing aged population (ABS projections estimate that by 2031 there will be 5.7 million people aged over 65) accommodation that meets the specific needs of the older generation is an increasing challenge.

The Phillip Island Homes for the Aged is a not-for-profit organisation that also includes Melaleuca Lodge and it is run by a voluntary committee of management. “We have built up a strong relationship with the local Bendigo Community Bank® and we’re extremely grateful for their support on this project,” said Melaleuca Administrator John Batty. “The new development in Cowes is designed for active and independent people

who want a secure living arrangement and social interaction. We believe there is a real need for this type of accommodation and with Bendigo Community Bank® support, we are able to realise that vision.

“San Remo District Financial Services provides an important source of funding for local community projects,” continued John. “In the past many organisations have found it difficult to raise sufficient funds to get projects off the ground. Working with San Remo District Financial Services, an organisation can plan for future development of their ideas knowing that if the bank considers the project worthwhile the chance of support is very possible.”

The development in Settlement Road, Cowes, contains two blocks of five units, separated by a communal living area.

Each unit has a lounge, bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette, as well as split system air conditioning. A professional cook provides meal in the common dining room and the dining and lounge areas give residents a welcoming space to interact and socialise in.

This layout allows 10 single retirees to live in their own private units, while enjoying the companionship and security of living in a close-knit community.

The $50000 grant money received from San Remo District Financial Services (which represents the Bendigo Community Bank® branches of Cowes, Grantville and San Remo) will help with the fit out of the common dining, lounge, kitchen and laundry areas.

Construction of the project is well underway and should be completed by the middle of the year.

We offer a diverse range of products and services that can satisfy all our customers banking needs:

Make a difference to your

• Everyday Banking Accounts • Home Loans • Personal Loans

own banking and your

• Credit Cards • Term Deposits • Insurance

Cowes Community Bank Branch Shop 1, 209-213 Settlement Road, Cowes Phone 5952 3383

• Business Banking • Superannuation • Financial Planning Grantville & District Community Bank Branch Shop 4, 1503 Bass Highway, Grantville Phone 5678 8773

community. Drop into your nearest branch today.

San Remo & District Community Bank Branch 103a Marine Parade, San Remo Phone 5678 5833

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you’re welCome The world might seem like a colder, harder place these days, but good old-fashion hospitality is alive and well and living just two hours south-east of Melbourne. Fish Creek’s the kind of town where a weary photographer gets taken in, given bags of home-grown fruit and treated to a home kitchen jam-making session.

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love

ABoUt FisH CReeK

tAking it to the StreetS Fish Creek is bubbling over with creativity … and it’s spilled out onto the streets. Not surprisingly, there’s an aquatic theme on display, with fish on the roof, the walls, the benches.

Catch of the day.

Art We think Fish Creek has the highest art-gallery-to-population ratio in the country. This is one talented community.

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Getting cosy There’s no limit to our love for the Fish Creek Tea Cosy Festival. From 13–22 May, we will be immersing ourselves in tea cosies of every shape and size. This year’s theme is Dance – so we expect an all singing, dancing, live music extravaganza … with cups of tea and toe tapping aplenty. www.teacosyfestival.com.au

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Deco-delight You could be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped back into the 1920s as you walk through the doors of the Fish Creek Hotel.

From the frosted windows to the curved walls, this loving restoration makes us want to break out a cloche hat and flapper dress and start dancing The Charleston.

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of thE yEar 2015

One-of-a-kind. Your home. Our service.

You deserve individualised attention and the highest calibre workmanship.

We pride ourselves on delivering quality service, building great relationships and using the best local products and trades. Talk to us about how our experienced team can create your beautiful new home, extension or renovation.

117 Sandy Point Rd, Sandy Point VIC 3959 | T: 0428 598 237 | svuillermin@bigpond.com | www.sjvuillerminmasterbuilders.com.au

Melaleuca Nursery INDIGENOUS & NATIVE PLANT FARM

‘Natives, because they’re beautiful’ O P E N 6 D AY S Melaleuca Nursery has been supplying quality indigenous & native plants to West & South Gippsland for over 30 years. Whether it’s a few plants for the backyard or thousands for a revegetation project; we provide excellent advice on what’s best for your area.

ADDRESS:

OPEN:

PHONE:

EMAIL & WEB:

50 Pearsalls Road, Inverloch Vic 3996

Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5pm

Phone: 03 5674 1014 Trade enquiries welcome

info@gonativelandscapes.com www.melaleucanursery.com

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words anne rousacc-hoyne photos warren reed

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artist profile

With an eye For the grAphiC

When ex-Melbourne graffiti artist Benjamin Baillie moved to Mount Squaretop in the Foster hills, he had no idea his lifelong passion for art was about to potentially re-define his future.

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Ben Baillie grew up with his parents Carol and Mick and sister Andrea in the Melbourne suburb of Carnegie. By age five, he was spending time drawing with an artist friend of his aunt’s who lived nearby. He showed an early interest in cartoon art. “I’d spend hours copying the characters from the Snake Tales and Garfield comic strips in the newspaper,” he recalls.

the derelict Richmond Abattoirs.” (The abbatoirs were demolished to make way for the Monash Freeway, the site is now Heritagelisted). “We could skateboard for hours through what was literally an art gallery of the most fantastic graffiti. A whole new world opened up for me.” Skateboarding has remained a passion. “I’ve got one in the car right now,” the cool, shaven-headed, 40-year-old bachelor says with his trademark engaging grin.

We could skateboard for hours through what was literally an art gallery of the most fantastic graffiti

Not a big fan of school, his life revolved around hip-hop culture, skateboarding and football. “All us kids at school – in fact, all the kids in our neighbourhood – were into hip hop,” says Ben with a wry smile. “We’d put a busted-up cardboard box on the ground and practise our breakdancing moves whenever we could. We managed to get hold of a copy of the underground hip hop movie Beat Street, and after that there was no holding us.”

Hip hop culture has a visual element, of course, and graffiti soon appeared on the radar of the eight-year-old. The appeal was instantaneous.

By the time a third hip hop element – skateboarding – kicked in, Ben was old enough to take advantage of this new mode of transport to expand his horizons. “We’d jump on a train and go to

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Despite his growing interest in art, Ben decided to leave school after Year 11 and take up a trade. He stuck to timber floor sanding and developed a successful business. His artist’s attention to detail and pleasure in working with a beautiful natural material clearly produced great results and sustained him in his pursuit of a physically demanding job.

But that compulsion to draw, and later paint, just didn’t go away. In his mid-twenties Ben decided to enrol in a cartooning course in Melbourne.

After a career in the city that had spanned 15 years, Ben decided to relocate his owner-operator business to the coast.

He was 35, and wanted to own his own home. The successful tradesman could see that this dream, fast becoming an >

Anchor belle holidAy pArk An ideal holiday destination only 90 kms from Melbourne. A friendly family park set amongst 5 acres of bush, 100m to beach, just 2km from the main shops and restaurants and central to all attractions.

The park features heated indoor pool, free BBQs & camp kitchen, children’s playground, free playstation games & Wifi, TV lounge and 2 well equipped laundries. Powered grassed and ensuite sites, sheltered tent sites, non-smoking

accommodation, modern clean facilities, dump point, boat storage area with boat ramp near by.

Accommodation includes two bedroom Deluxe Cabins and two storey three bedroom Luxury Townhouses.

272 Church St, Cowes , 3922 | Phone : +61 3 5952 2258 | Email: info@anchorbelle.com.au | www.anchorbelle.com.au

M IN AUTUMN U S E U M ROCK Away on Labour Day Live Music from the 60’s & 70’s. mon 14 Main acts - The Shedows, march Rock House & the cast from Minefields & Miniskirts.

Locals FREE Open Day

NUI DAT CAFE will be open for great coffee and refreshments.

sun 29 may

Visit and enjoy the Museum for FREE. Extra activities include minigolf, wooden model kits with the ever popular Wonthaggi Woodturners, face painting and lots more.

Military & Retro Antiques FAIR sun 10 april

Expert valuers available to value military or retro artefacts. Some stalls for enthusiast to browse.

NATIONAL VIETNAM VETERANS MUSEUM 25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven, Phillip Island ph (03) 5956 6400 Open Daily 10am - 5pm

www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org

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impossibility in the city, was still a financial reality in the country. His sister and parents had moved separately to South Gippsland and were loving it: visiting them, Ben quickly understood why. Work was available too, so in 2010 he took the plunge.

One day, a casual on-the-job conversation with a client led to the possibility of getting his work on display. “I’d never had an exhibition: I’d never even sold a painting,” says Ben. “But my client knew about the local art scene, and offered to help me.

The next thing I knew, I was one of the artists (I still feel funny using that word to describe myself ) in the inaugural exhibition at The Fish Creek Hotel ArtSpaces.”

Before that, though, there was some work to be done. Ben’s large original pieces were painted in acrylics, but he wanted to explore technology as an adjunct to his practice. After some initial advice from local photographer and mentor Keith Haycroft, Ben hooked up with printer Joel Leaney in Mansfield and arranged to have high-quality digital images created from his originals.

“It’s an expensive process – and a long drive,” laughs Ben. “But the result was excellent. When I finally saw three huge differently-coloured versions of my picture Fair Of Face hanging together on the beautiful rendered wall of the hotel’s dining room – aka ArtSpace One – I was blown away.”

Coming up with names for the paintings was a story in itself.

The curator at ArtSpace put him in touch with author Kevin Moloney – another sea/tree-changer, this time from Maldon – who dreamed up a concept based on the well-known children’s verse Monday’s Child.

“It so happened that all the prints in the exhibition were of females, so we pretty much matched them to the lines from the poem. I didn’t know the verse myself, but I loved it straight away.

We had titles like Fair of Face, Full of Grace, Loving and Giving, and we put a copy of the poem up on the wall with the pictures.

The curator of the ArtSpaces is fascinated with the synergy between art, literature (and music), so it also seemed like a nice way to get involved with that concept from the very first show.”

In a further synergy between art and literature, one of the hundreds of visitors to the hotel over summer was a leading Australian thriller-writer. His publisher was keen to adapt some of his shorter works to the graphic novel genre (a kind of adult comic-book), but the project had stalled for lack of a suitable illustrator. When he walked into the pub that day the author knew he’d found the artist he was looking for.

While Benjamin Baillie’s story is unique, in some ways it’s just another example of the explosion of art and culture on our coast in general, and the Fish Creek area in particular. There’s clearly something in the air down here.

If you would like to see more of Ben’s work, visit benjaminbaillie.com.

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Coastal Refrigeration & Airconditioning we don’t just install, we look after you . . .

Servicing Phillip Island & surrounding areas

COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC REFRIGERATION & AIRCONDITIONING Sales, installation & service of all major brands.

Rick North is a fully qualified refrigeration & airconditioning technician with over 20 years experience in the trade. Coastal Refrigeration and Airconditioning provide professional before and after sales services.

Shop2/65A 2/65ABack BackBeach BeachRoad, Road,San SanRemo Remo5678 56785190 5190 Shop www.mhiaa.com.au

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WE HAVE MANY EXCITING NEW PRODUCTS AVAILABLE, INCLUDING THE “AMAZING NEW GLO IN THE NIGHT CONCRETE”.

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PO BOX 817, COWES 3922 Mob: 0402 454 742 Fax: 5956 8004 Email: newwaveconcreting@icloud.com

www.newwaveconcreting.com.au

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coast style decorating inspiration for your Home

Keen to breathe some new life into your lounge room? Martine Zajacek, stylist and Factory Seven stallholder, talks us through giving a room a makeover without breaking the bank.

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If you want to decorate a room, remember you don’t need to change everything.

You can create a whole new feel just by decorating a corner. When I design an area, I like to start with the biggest piece of furniture and then work everything else around it. In this room, I started with a lovely vintage mid-century sideboard and then added a wood and leather dining chair, but an armchair or a feature chair would work just as well.

Once I had those two key pieces, I started to think about colour. The great thing about working with colour is it allows you to mix a lot of different styles. I found this fantastic 70s green lamp – a real statement piece – and it dictated the colour scheme. The wood of the sideboard and then the green of the lamp said “nature” to me, and I carried that through to the floral cushion covers, the botanical prints on the wall, and the plants. I’ve used vintage cushion covers, but something very modern in green would also look great.

I think every interior should include something living, so I’ve popped these easy-to-grow succulents into an aluminium cake-tin and an old steamer. I like to include personal touches: I added glasses, a doll and some old books … all green of course!

Pick pieces that have meaning to you. They could be anything from shells to a bowl or a vase – just keep within the colour scheme you’ve selected.

The great thing about decorating like this, is that it’s relatively inexpensive to put together and very easy to keep fresh. Just swapping the lamp could start you on a whole new look.

Factory Seven –120 McKenzie St, Wonthaggi

Sustainable design, Smart living FOR SALE!

ECOGRID DISPLAY HOME

WINNER 2015 BDAV AWARDS Residential New Homes up to $300,000 Construction Cost

ECOLIV OFF THE GRID DISPLAY

Ecoliv’s factory built modular homes use fewer resources and energy to ensure minimal site disturbance right from the start. Our transportable designs allow you to adapt, change or add to your home with ease by simply arranging predetermined modules in a variety of configurations. Each home configuration features 7 star thermal performance rating for affordable, comfortable and sustainable living.

Visit our display home at 332 White Road, Wonthaggi Ph. 5672 5196

www.ecoliv.com.au

Winner 2015 BDAV AWArDs Residential New Homes up to $500,000 Construction Cost Residential New Homes up to $300,000 Construction Cost

Multi Award Winning Building Designer of Contemporary Sustainable Homes.

332 White Rd. Wonthaggi Tel. (03) 5672 5196

www.beaumontconcepts.com.au

silVerleAVes ProjecT

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Discovering the Powlett The Powlett River Estuary Mouth is well known and loved for surfing, camping, fishing and bird watching, but less known are some of its natural processes which are truly fascinating.

It’s not unusual to drive between Dalyston and Wonthaggi and see the wetland and farmland surrounding the Powlett covered with water. This is a completely natural and healthy process for the surrounding wetland. But when it happens as a result of estuary mouth closures, this water can be around for quite some time – creating challenges for the surrounding farms.

West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s, Matt Khoury, has been working with land and business owners to look for opportunities to try to balance the competing needs of the wetland and farms.

“It’s not an easy balance to strike,” explains Matt. “On the one hand we have farmers trying to run a business and make a living and on the other we have this amazing wetland system that provides critical habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.

“The Powlett provides an important food source and shelter for animals such as the rare and threatened Australian grayling; popular recreational fishing species, estuary perch and black bream; and significant bird species like the critically endangered orange bellied parrot, endangered hooded plover and eastern great egret,” continued Matt.

Matt explains that the estuary mouth closes when there is not much rain. Sand builds up at the estuary mouth because of the lack of water flowing down the river. Because there is not enough water pushing through gradually the mouth closes altogether.

“And then the wetlands begin to fill with a mix of salt and fresh water – which triggers an array of amazing natural processes,” says Matt.

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“Algae begins to grow which provides food for insects and fish. The calm waters turn into a fish nursery. With the increase in fish and insects – birds flock to the wetland to feed and it provides them and many other animals with a very important drought refuge.

“When the Mouth of Powlett is closed the river and wetlands are a hive of activity – some of it you won’t be able to see as it’s happening beneath the surface,” continues Matt.

The environmental benefits of the estuary mouth closing cannot be overstated. It helps maintain native wetland vegetation. When the river mouth opens naturally it can trigger fish migration upstream or out to sea and ensure recently hatched fish larvae are swept out to sea to start their lives.

“It’s been very rewarding to work with local landholders who are helping to maintain and improve the health of the Powlett by fencing their remnant vegetation, planting more native trees and shrubs and controlling weeds on their properties,” continued Matt.

“They are working with us and the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources to explore innovative farm management practices and land management options to help plan for when the mouth does close.”

If you’re interested in more information on the Powlett visit www.wgcma.vic.gov.au or http://vimeo/wgcma

Creating Quality Coastal Homes for more than 50 years.

With choices ranging from two to five bedrooms, with double and single storey, brick or modern claddings – there is a design perfect for every lifestyle. Visit our new Sales Centre in Wonthaggi and discover the perfect design for Coastal & Country Living.

Gippsland Sales & Display Centre | Cape Paterson Rd (Next to Mitre 10) Wonthaggi.

Phone: 5672 1999. Open 7 days (closed public holidays). Mon–Fri: 8am-5pm Sat-Sun: 1pm–4pm.

Wonthaggi Sales Centre | 111 Graham Street, Wonthaggi.

Phone: 5672 5260. Open Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm. Sat 9am to 1pm.

Phillip Island Sales & Display Centre | 36 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Newhaven.

Phone: 5956 7992. Open Thu to Mon & public holidays. 11am–4:30pm (Closed Tue & Wed).

Phillip Island Display Home | Whytesands Estate (Off Ventnor Rd), Cowes.

Phone: 0408 103 830. Open by appointment.

coldonhomes.com.au

Builders of distinctive, designer homes.

TS Constructions create living spaces that are stunning, innovative and finished to perfection. Our aim is to work with owners and designers to develop and build exactly to your requirements.

03 5672 2466 admin@tsconstructions.com.au www.tsconstructions.com.au coast 115

coast style DeCORATING INSPIRATION FOR YOuR HOMe

Leongatha Art & Craft Society

Finding the grain Southern Bazaar

Mookah Studio

You don’t need to be an interior designer to know what you like.

And at the moment, we love the stylish combination of black, white and wood.

Crisp and striking, black and white accessories bring drama and definition to any room, while timber, roughly textured or lustrously smooth grained, adds natural warmth.

Team some monochromatic prints with wood and you’ve got the bold and the beautiful right there in one room. Remember, staying with the black, white and wood theme allows you to mix and match eras and styles. Blend sleek, Nordic-inspired wooden pieces with nautical stripes or conjure up the swinging 60s with mind-altering swirls and patterns.

Let your imagination run wild.

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Organature

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Because all Villages are not the same…

A master built, luxury 2 bedroom villa for as little as $155,500* At Mountain View Leongatha boutique retirement community – that dream can be a reality!

A spacious community centre, 24 hour emergency call service, indoor heated swimming pool, bowling green and secure caravan and boat storage, are some of our fabulous features.

With fewer maintenance costs and no deferred management fee* – you’ll have more time and more money in your wallet too!

* via lease agreement

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Freecall; 1300 306 255. www.mountainviewleongatha.com.au Open Monday to Saturday 10am til 4pm. 1 Dale Drive, Leongatha, VIC 3953

It’s got to be a G.J. Gardner home.

Speak to our New Home Consultants who have loads of local knowledge and are available 7 days a week.

Let our local Custom builder build your new home.

1/219 Settlement Rd, Cowes (03) 5952 2150 114-116 Graham St, Wonthaggi (03) 5672 1818 Display homes – Parr Street, Leongatha gjgardner.com.au

Bradley Drew / Neville Toms / Aaron Rodriquez / Suzi Ginnivan

Your local Franchisee’s Garry Cox and Gill Hardman

Welcome Home.

tel: 03 5956 7415

www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

28 boys home road, newhaven, phillip island. info@southcoastkitchens.com.au Domestic • Commercial • Wardrobes • Creative Storage • Wardrobe Sliding Doors • Toilet Petitions • Shop Fit Outs • Solid Timber Joinery

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RARE PLANT FAIR

& UNUSUAL Date: Saturday 9th April Time: 9.00am till 3.30pm Venue: The Jindivick Public Hall & Surrounds, Jacksons Track, Jindivick

2016

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

THE GIPPSLAND

Jindivick has much to offer the visitor including 2 eateries, an antique shop and art gallery and of course the Jindivick Country Gardener Rare Plant Nursery

PLANT STALL HOLDERS INCLUDE: • Tempo Two Irises • Hancocks Bulbs • Logonimus Plants • West Gippsland Bonsai Group • Victorian Salvia Study Group

• Heritage Fruit Trees • Attilia Kapitany Succulents • Peter Marks Aloes • Devon Tube Stock • plus lots more!

As well as our stalls there will be coffee, food and garden related products including tools and sculptures

For further information please contact David Musker on Ph: (03) 5628 5316 or email jindigardener@bigpond.com www.jindivickcountrygardener.com.au

StabilEarth rammed earth constructions

Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring South Gippsland’s rammed earth specialists.

Residential builds in the local area and contracting for rammed earth works throughout Victoria.

Matt Crooks. Smiths Beach. Phillip Island. 0419 356 222 | 5952 3838 info@islandlandscaping.com.au www.islandlandscaping.com.au

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Sandy Point, South Gippsland, Vic.

mob: 0429 841 057

w: www.stabilearth.com.au e: owen@stabilearth.com.au

ANTIQUE & DECOR GALLERY ANTIQUES // ARTIFACTS // DECOR // BEADS

Specialising in eco-friendly products with non-toxic finishes that are both hard wearing and do not yellow with age.

Over 20 years experience. Private restoration available. Antiques to contemporary.

The Antique gallery is located between the Inverloch Motel and Inverloch Nursery.

Open Thurs–Sun 10am–4.30pm or by appointment.

RESTORED FURNITURE FROM EUROPE & CHINA

37 Powlett Street, Inverloch Tel/Fax (03) 5674 3982 Email ljrestore@live.com.au

0421 867 476

A treASure trOVe OF pre-lOVed, retrO, VINtAGe & MOre...

SECOND HAND, VINTAGE, RETRO AND COLLECTABLES

9.30am – 4.30pm Wednesday to Sunday Opens at 10 every Sunday in Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring.

120 McKenzie St, Wonthaggi (behind Voyage gym) Enquiries: Jane 0417 142 478

Main Street, KONGWAK, Victoria

(only 10 minutes from Inverloch) For more info call Jane on 0417 142 478

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coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

L&J TUDDIN restorations

coast directory

Auguste the Label Zulu and Zephyr NEW & GENTLY USED QUALITY GOODS

Steele

‘Browsers Always Welcome’

I Love Lilya

Oracle Cards Body Jewellery Silver Jewellery Japanese Incense Erstwilder Brooches Himalayan Salt Lamps Mind, Body & Spirit CD’s San Marco Wildflower Jewellery Clothing for Ladies, Men & Kids Short Story ‘Hope in a Box’ Bella Donna Harmony Balls Gemstones: Tumbled, Specimens & Jewellery Black Ice Sunglasses Hats, Bags, Scarves Bric-a-brac, Books

Finders Keepers

31 MAIN STREET, FOSTER PH: 5682 1381 WEEKDAYS 10AM–5PM SAT 9.30AM–4PM SUN 10AM–4PM OPEN 7 DAYS 6 DAYS, CLOSED TUESDAYS FROM MAY – OCTOBER

www.mainstreetrevelations.com.au

Elka Collective Shona Joy

The Fifth Talulah Resort Damselfly Candles Solsana Alias Mae Zoe Kratzmann Ahoy Trader Mossman

Shop online at www.mikaandmax.com.au or visit us in store at 17B A’Beckett St, Inverloch 3996.

Contact us today on (03) 5674 3518 or email info@mikaandmax.com

Remote Fire Defence

ASC assists businesses, property owners and electrical contractors realise their automation projects.

FIRE DEFENCE

www.coastmagazine.net

Remote control and monitoring solutions can provide the capacity to remotely enable and monitor fire defence apparatus such as wet down, retardant and pump systems from iPhone, iPad or SMS service.

IRRIGATION AND PUMP CONTROL

Send an SMS from your mobile phone to start, stop or monitor the status of your remote pump.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CALL Rick: 0418 351 613 or Tony: 0407 553 103 Automation Systems & Controls Pty Ltd

The Specialists automationsystemsandcontrols.net.au

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Unique marine wildlife experiences and stunning coastal viewing.

Explore the waters around Phillip Island on-board the cruiser “Kasey Lee”.

Seal Watching Cruise – Twilight Cruise – Cape Woolamai Cruise Wilsons Prom Cruise – Winter Whale Cruise

Open daily 9.00am – 5.30pm Rotunda jetty carpark 11-13 The Esplanade, Cowes p: 1300 763 739, 03 5952 3501 e: info@wildlifecoastcruises.com.au w: www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

Fresh fruit and vegetables Local and imported delicacies KGS mayonnaise, hummus, chutney and jams Gorgeous home and giftware items

Where there are no strangers... only friends you’ve yet to meet

• WINE & BEER • MUSIC • DELICIOUS FOOD • LOCAL PRODUCE • WOODFIRED PIZZA • TAKE AWAY

Open Thursday–Sunday: 9am–8pm Friday dinner till late

1075 Loch-Kernot Rd, Kernot Phone: 5678 8555

Lone Pine Bistro at PhiLLiP isLand rsL – open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week – family friendly, gluten free options, senior’s menu, groups small and large.

Book online www.phillipislandrsl.com.au or 5952 1004.

Function rooms for all of life’s occasions at both venues – 19th Hole Bar & Function Facility at the Phillip Island Golf Club and ANZAC Room at the Phillip Island RSL. Enquiries: functions@pirsl.com.au or 5952 1004.

Kilcunda General Store Mon – Sat: 7am – 5pm Sun: 7am – 4pm 3535 Bass Highway, Kilcunda Ph: 5678 7390

Enjoy fine wine by the glass or choose your favourite bottle to have with your BYO food, in the cosy wine lounge or al fresco soaking up the magic of Mordialloc.

Ask our staff for a tasting to help you choose the perfect wine to take home and enjoy.

Open 7 days 622 Main St, Mordialloc For aLL oF LiFe’s occasions

Call 9580 6521 www.mordycellardoor.com.au coast 123

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

Always on sale:

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

FRESH FOCUS

Mega Bites Cafe A great cafe to catch up with friends

top 20 country pubs

in Victoria

We pride ourselves on serving fresh seafood and sourcing as much of the produce locally as possible. Behind the bar, the local focus continues, stocking a wide variety of Australian craft beer and Gippsland wines. With great views and the friendliest service it is no wonder the Ocean View Hotel Kilcunda (the Killy pub) was named by the Herald Sun as one of the top 20 country pubs in Victoria.

Lounge Bar – 03 5678 7245 | Ocean View Bistro – 03 5678 7011

great coffee delicious house made food mouth-watering cakes friendly service relaxed atmosphere gluten free options dietary requirements catered for Open 7 days 8am–4pm 132 Graham St, Wonthaggi Phone: 5672 3344

Cellar door open on weekends 12noon to 5pm.

A unique, unforgettable experience.

Deli on Bass is a family owned business. Our mission is to source unique products from around the world allowing you to taste new and exciting foods. Our range includes meats, cheeses, antipasto, dips, jams, relish, pasta, sauces, artisan sour dough breads and much much more. We pride ourselves in providing fresh quality products at affordable prices.

We also serve freshly ground coffee and delicious individually created continental rolls.

deli•on•bass Shop 6/1524 Bass Highway, Grantville, Vic. P: 5678 8288

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Basia Mille “one thousand passionate kisses.”

Visit our luxury apartments,vineyard and olive grove to experience great wine, local food, oils and Gippsland’s warmest hospitality. Play golf on our 9 hole course amongst the vineyard and the olive groves whilst overlooking the magical views of Wilsons Promontory and the islands of Bass Strait.

Basia Mille – A Tarwin Valley Icon: Beautiful, Bountiful, Brilliant.

At Waratah North, off Savages and Mathers Roads, at 1 Taylor Court, Fish Creek Weekend afternoons or by appointment on 5687 1453 or 0414 295 048. www.basiamille.com.au

coast directory

Secure. Safe. Peace of Mind.

Island Secure Storage EXPERT ADVICE AND GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SERVICE. TIMBER

HARDWARE PAINTS HUGE RANGE OF WATER TANKS

TOOLS

EST. 1965

a-binding

Cnr. Bass Highway & Glen Forbes Rd, Grantville 03 5678 8552 421 Princess Hwy, Officer VIC 3809 03 5943 2371

Easy car and truck access.

Wide range of unit sizes to suit all your needs.

We stock all your packaging requirements.

Access is 24/7.

On-site manager during business hours.

All Units have an individual alarm and the facility has security cameras inside and out.

Storing with us will be a breeze. mob: 0400 214 446 4 Industrial Way, Cowes VIC 3922 e: storage@islandsteel.com.au

www.islandstorage.com.au

PRESS www.coastmagazine.net coast 125

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directory Artists & Galleries a-binding press ArtFusion Gallery ArtSpace Wonthaggi B’Zarte Gallery Cheryl Petersen Gallery Creative Gippsland Django Gallery Fish Creek Hotel ArtSpaces Gecko Studio Gallery The Goldsmith’s Gallery Gooseneck Pottery Jindivick Tavern Leongatha Art & Craft Society Manyung Gallery Modern Art by Annette Mosaics by the Bay Stefani Hilltop Gallery Without Pier

Hair, Health & Beauty 125 43 4 59 51 49 59 58 58 55 59 57 59 48 53 47 58 54

Automotive Bass Caltex Service Station Edney’s Leongatha Phillip Island Service Centre Wonthaggi Toyota & Holden

69 72 82 86

Builders & Designers Aspire Designer Homes 91 Beach House Constructions 70 Beaumont Concepts 113 Coldon Homes 115 Ecoliv 113 Graeme Alexander Homes 40 GJ Gardner 119 Hotondo 31 Langford Jones Homes 117 SJ Vuillermin Master Builders 105 StabilEarth 120 TS Constructions 115

Entertainment Kongwak Market Turn the Page

121 127

Fashion

Beemo 82 Island Shoes 78 Mika & Max 122 Petite Collections 79 Sketa 23 Skunkwear 81 Tyde 79

Government & Schools Brian Paynter MP Newhaven College West Gippsland Library West Gippsland CMA Westernport Water

87 39 125 114 65

Green & Gardens Island Landscape & Design Jindivick Country Gardener Melaleuca Nursery

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120 120 105

Beachside Hair & Beauty 82 Cross Over Cyles 87 Focus on Lifestyle 80 Grip Fitness 78 Island Hair 81 Island Healing 75 Muscle Scope Massage 82 Priceline Cowes 80 San Remo Pharmacy 85 YMCA 129

Homewares & Furniture Factory Seven 121 Finding the Grain 77 Foons Photographics 87 Framed Inverloch 61 L&J Tuddin Antique & Decor 121 Main Street Revelations 122 Mookah Studios 89 Organature 7 Petite Collections 79 Southern Bazaar 29 South Coast Flooring Xtra 81 South Coast Furnishings 78 Wonthaggi Betta Home 86, 87

Jindivick Tavern 57 Kernot Store 123 Kilcunda General Store 123 Kilcunda Ocean View Hotel 124 Manna Gum 88 Mario’s at San Remo 83 Mega Bites Cafe 124 The Palms 79 Penny Lane Cafe 80 Phillip Island RSL 123 The Rusty Windmill 72 San Remo IGA 85 Sherwood’s Restaurant 78 Sweet Life Cafe 73 Sweetly 84 Three Aces Cafe 81 Treat Time 88 Vela Nine 89 Waterfront @Silverwater Resort 10 Wonthaggi Club 87 Youki’s 78

Tourism, Travel & Recreation

The Goldsmith’s Gallery 55 Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery 132

Cowes Indoor Golf 79 Islantis 73 Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 99 Phillip Island Nature Parks 33 Rod Bending 88 Vietnam Vets Museum 109 Wildlife Coast Cruises 122

Professional Services

Trades & Hardware

Automation Systems & Control 122 Bass Coast Security 84 Bendigo Bank – SRDFS 101 Mark Farmer Financial Solutions 70 Wonthaggi Vet Clinic 87

Carpet Court 120 Coastal Refrigeration 111 Island Secure Storage 125 New Wave Concrete 111 Nick Kershaw Floor Sanding 121 Pristine Pools 82 Shorelec 83 South Coast Kitchens 119 Van Steensels Timbers 125

Jewellery

Property & Accommodation Alex Scott Phillip Island Anchor Belle Garth Lisle San Remo Mountain View Leongatha Seagrove Estate Silverwater Resort The Cape – Eco Village Woolamai House

131 109 84 118 2 10 25 131

Food, Cafes & Restaurants Basia Mille 124 Beand 83 The Big Wave Cafe 73 Brent Sinclair Catering 72 Carmie’s Kitchen 83 The Cape Kitchen 90 Cheeky Goose Cafe 79 Churchill Island Cafe 73 Connell’s Bakery 69 Deli on Bass 124 Fish Creek Hotel 58 Harry’s on the Esplanade 97 House of Blanche 86 Island Pies 73

Wineries Mordialloc Cellars Purple Hen Wines

123 97

Stockists Aspendale News Anchorage Store, Ventnor Balnarring Village News Bass General Store Baxter Newsagency, Frankston Beach St Newsagency, Frankston Benton Square Newsagency, Mornington Berwick Newsagency Black Rock News Blairgowrie Newagency Caltex Bass Carrum Newsagency Carrum Downs News Cape Woolamai Bottlo Cellar & Pantry, Red Hill South Chelsea News Cheltenham News Corinella General Store Coronet Bay General Store Cowes IGA Cowes Mobil Cowes Newsagent Dalyston General Store Dromana Newsagency East Brighton Newsagency Edithvale Newsagency Fish Creek General Store Flinders General Store Foster Newsagency Gardenvale Newsagency Grantville Newsagency Hampton East Newsagency Hampton Newsagency Hastings Newsagency Highett Newsagency Inverloch Foodworks Karingal Hub Newsagency, Frankston Kilcunda General Store Koonwarra Store Koo Wee Rup Newsagency Korumburra News Kunyung Newsagency, Mt Eliza Lang Lang Newsagency Leongatha Newsagency Lonsdale News, Dandenong Meeniyan Newsagent Mentone Newsagency Middle Brighton News Mornington News Mt Eliza Newsagency Mt Martha Newsagency Narre Warren Newsagency Narre Warren North News Newhaven Newsagency Newsxpress Inverloch North Brighton News Orbost Newsagency Pakenham Newsagency Parkdale Newsagency Pearcedale Newsagency Rhyll General Store Rosebud Newsagency Rye Newsagency San Remo - Freedom Fuels San Remo IGA San Remo Newsagency Sandringham News Sandy Point General Store Scribes News & Tatts, Mornington Seaford Newsagency Seaview Newsagency, Beaumaris Silverleaves General Store Smiths Beach Store Somerville News & Tatts Sorrento News Strzelecki News & Tatts, Mirboo Nth Tarwin Lower Supermarket Toora Newsagency Tooradin Newsagency Tyabb Newsagency Venus Bay Store Warren Village Newagency, Mordialloc Wilsons Prom - Tidal River Store Wonthaggi Newsagent Wonthaggi Ritchies IGA Yanakie Store

a good read

a good read Let’s celebrate our wonderful local authors.

This edition’s selection features new releases from wonderful people who write from the heart and of whom we should all be so proud.

FICTION “CARRY ME HOME”

by Dorothy Adamek Dorothy isn’t a full-time Islander, however she and her family are down here regularly. You will love this romantic historical fiction set on Phillip Island in the first instalment of the Blue Wren Shallows series.

Finella May arrives from England in 1875 for an arranged marriage as a village preacher’s wife on Phillip Island. Shadrach Jones is sent to meet her in Melbourne with the news that her intended husband has died. Unsure of what to do, Finella takes a position as carer for Shadrach’s sister Molly while she considers her future. Can Shadrach, a poor farmer, convince Finella she has a future with him and can their misunderstandings, shared tragedy and diverse personalities be overcome?

FICTION

FICTION “SEPTEMBER CHILL”

“WOMEN OF SPIRIT”

by Linda May

by Anne Crawford

This is Linda’s second book and it’s just perfect for tucking in your handbag for a plane trip, some time on the beach or for that weekend away.

As late September wraps its chill around Mackenzie, she can hardly believe she’s achieved her dream of living in New York after growing up in rural Australia. She’s already fallen in love with Digby, a NY detective, who is opening her eyes to life.

As time passes, she grows nostalgic for home, but will love be enough to make her stay?

FICTION “FREEDOM BEYOND CONDITIONING: EAST-WEST”

by Dr Jane Wiesner Many of you will know Jane as one of our hard-working local business owners, but she has many other strings to her bow.

Where do our thoughts come from and how do they impact on emotions? Are we ever really free of our past? These are a few of the questions explored by Dr Jane Wiesner as she looks at emotional life and how Eastern and Western philosophies deal with these questions. This book blends the subtleties of Eastern theories of energy and their relationship to freedom of mind, with the Western world’s science-based approach to mind and body. After interviewing people from all walks of life, one conclusion became clear to Jane. Our emotions are fiercely linked to our mental activities and the only way to free ourselves from the conditioning of the past is to use a body/mind approach to wellbeing, one that is centred on balance and awareness.

A Rainy day is a special gift to readers...

Amy Miles

Anne writes the Australian story so well and this is no exception.

From the red-dirt outback to the misty mountains of Victoria’s high country this is the story of women who’ve taken on all that rural life can throw at them and triumphed. Wrestling livestock, battling bushfires, enduring isolation, rearing children ... these are models, mothers, farmers, filmmakers and governesses whose lives are full of drama, joy, heartbreak and humour. Each remarkable in their own way, these women share the qualities of resilience, guts and determination, but most of all a love of our vast, beautiful land.

FICTION “TREASURES FROM THE TIDE”

by Pauline MacKinnon Pauline grew up in Gippsland and still lives close to where she was raised.

Images or words come as gifts, like treasures from the tide. This beautiful book is a heartwarming collection full of beautiful moments and images created by words and camera.

At times humorous, at others sad, these pieces rollick along dusty country roads, down suburban streets and into the lives of ordinary people and accidental heroes, offering a glimpse into the unsung chapters of their lives.

40a Thompson Ave, Cowes P: 03 5952 1444 E: lois.turnthepage@bigpond.com W: turnthepagebookshop.com.au P R O U D LY I N D E P E N D E N T

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young & inspired A trip to Top Arts – the annual NGV exhibition featuring artwork from the best of the best VCE students – inspired Zoe Johnson to take her artwork into the digital realm.

With her sights set on a career in animation, the Phillip Island teenager has combined her two loves – art and technology.

I’ve been drawing pictures since I was in kindergarten. I only started doing digital art last year, but I’ve always liked the look of it. The program I use is called Fire Alpaca: it was pretty hard to navigate at first, but I just kept trying to teach myself new things. I like being able to zoom in and work in more detail. Using layers in the program helps me organise my ideas so I can stay on track and add to things.

Digital art does look kind of cartoony I guess, especially the portraits. I actually like digital landscape art. Although I use the same technology when I create a landscape, it’s a completely different process to portraits. Being able to work on different layers really helps. If I painted a landscape, I’d have to work from the background to the foreground. But in digital art I can go back to whatever layer I like and I don’t have to do things in a particular order.

Emerson Zandegu is the artist who got me interested in digital art in the first place. I saw his work in Top Arts at the National Gallery last year and he’s really influenced the style of my portraits. He works in watercolour as well and it’s cool how his style stays the same regardless of what medium he uses. I also really like an American animator and director called Rebecca Sugar. She has a show on Cartoon Network called Steven Universe. She’s a feminist and believes in equality. The stories are about accepting people the way they are. I think it’s inspiring that she gets political concepts out in the open for kids to see and think about. She has her own effect on the younger generation.

words as told to eleanor mckay photo warren reed

Last year, I won the Young Master’s Apprentice Award in a South Gippsland art competition.

As part of the prize, I get to show my work in the Wonthaggi Winter Solstice exhibition at Wonthaggi ArtSpace throughout May and June.

I’m going to take every opportunity I get to display my work, but with Year 12 coming up I have to focus on school work for a bit. I’m doing art for VCE and making it into Top Arts is my goal. After school, I’ve got my eye on an RMIT animation course.

In five years’ time, hopefully I’ll be working on an animation project as art director or director. I’d love to work in Canada or America. They’ve got really good animation industries there and that’s where everyone in animation goes to try and get a big break.

You can see more of Zoe’s work on her Facebook page, her website and on Red Bubble.

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fitness tips

Youth Mentoring – Making a difference.

A unique youth mentoring program is delivering great results for local students, thanks to the YMCA and some dedicated local volunteers.

Every year since 2009, the YMCA Bass Coast Youth Mentoring program has helped up to 20 local Year 9 students to reach their potential. One of only two of its kind in Victoria, the program matches students with volunteer mentors who help the students to stay engaged and focussed on education, so they can achieve their goals.

Currently running in two schools, the program focuses on students who struggle to stay engaged and interested at school.

Their adult mentors meet with the students for an hour a week, offering support, guidance and friendship. Strong relationships are built through a range of activities both inside and outside of school.

This successful program is continuing in 2016 and the YMCA is looking for mentors to

Find your Fit

match with the students during this critical stage in their life. Aside from the proven benefits for the students, the mentoring program also provides mentors with an enjoyable, meaningful and rewarding way to contribute to the local community.

Phillip Island resident, Don Turner has been involved as a mentor since 2009 and believes the Youth Mentoring Program is as much fun for the mentor as it is for the young person.

“Depending on the weather and personal interests, typical activities might include bike riding, a walk along the beach, local activities or going for a hot drink. You can make a difference to a young person’s life, just by taking an interest. I would recommend the program to anyone who can spare an hour a week in school time.”

The YMCA Bass Coast Youth Mentoring program attracts volunteers from a range of ages, backgrounds and life experience, who share a passion for the community and a commitment to supporting young people in need. By building a diverse community network that cares about the young person, mentors have been able to help Year 9 students from Wonthaggi Secondary and Newhaven College achieve positive academic, career and personal goals.

If you would like further information, or are interested in becoming a Youth Mentor, please contact Michael Feehan at the YMCA on 5952 2811 or 0409 974 909. Alternatively, you can e-mail: michael.feehan@ymca.org.au.

with YMCA Bass Coast

Our qualified staff and modern equipment combine to offer you a great Health Club catering for all your training needs.

Gym • Cycle Studio • Group Fitness • Sauna • Creche • Swimming Lessons Bass Coast Aquatic & Leisure Centre 41 Wentworth Rd, Wonthaggi 5672 4194

Phillip Island Leisure Centre 10-14 Church Street, Cowes 5952 2811

www.basscoast.ymca.org.au coast 129

where am I?

“I drive past this scene once a week. It presents itself in thousands of different ways. Looming storms, luminous sunsets or clear blue days are all equally inspiring.”

Coast photographer Warren Reed captured this stunning landscape on one of his regular drives around the coast and countryside.

Do you think you know where it might be?

Why not drop us a line on Twitter or Facebook and tag your suggestions #coastwhereami. @ourcoastmag CoastMagazineAustralia Don’t forget, limited edition images such as this can be viewed and purchased at warrenreedphotography.com.au The Spring 2016 edition – Where Am I – featured the Newhaven Pier at sunset

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A HOME BY THE SEA?

Foreshore; at Woolamai House.

LAND FROM $229,000

Hurry, limited beachside lots remain. woolamaihouse.com.au Sales OfďŹ ce Open Weekends 1–3pm Grofam Court, Cape Woolamai Phone 5952 5711 While best endeavours have been used to provide information in this publication that is true and accurate all entities accept no responsibility and disclaim all liability in respect to any errors or inaccuracies it may contain. Prospective purchasers should make their own inquiries to verify the information contained herein.

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